How to buy a SIM Card at Cancún Airport & City 2024: Best Plans + Updated Price

This guide aims to help international travelers who want to buy a SIM card at Cancún Airport in Mexico. Getting a local SIM might be hard because of language barriers and not knowing what documents are needed.

how to buy sim card at cacun airport

The guide is here to give you all the info on where and how to get a SIM card at the airport, including what documents you’ll need and the different tourist plans available. Just follow the advice in sections I to VI to easily get a SIM at this airport and have internet access while you’re in Mexico.

I. How to get a SIM Card at Cancún International Airport (CUN)?

It depends. While buying a Mexican SIM card at Cancun Airport is the traditional option, it’s not always the best choice. Why? Let’s take a look at this table:

ProsCons
Get connected immediately, no need to search laterHigher prices compared to other options
Avoid potential queues in townLimited choices of providers and plans
Guaranteed access, even during peak seasonInformation and pricing might not be readily available
Staff might not speak your language fluently
Top-up options may be limited at the airport

Alternative Options:

  1. Pre-order online: Telcel, AT&T, Movistar, etc
  2. Buy in town: Oxxo, 7-Eleven
  3. Use free Wi-Fi: Hotels, restaurants, and public areas 
  4. Pocket Wi-Fi rental: Shareable data connection for groups or those needing constant connectivity.

So who should buy a SIM card at the Airport? They are:

  • Travelers arriving late and needing immediate data.
  • Those unwilling to research or compare options beforehand.

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Cancún International Airport?

cancun airport map
CanCun airport map

You can purchase a SIM card from various mobile operator stores, including Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T, located within Terminal 3 of Cancún International Airport. 

These stores are situated near the arrival gates, baggage claim area, and exit gates, with operating hours typically ranging from 7 AM to 11 PM, though some may have shorter hours.

What to prepare:

  • Passport or ID
  • Local currency (Mexican Pesos) or credit/debit card

Pros:

  • Competitive pricing
  • Wide range of plan options
  • Assistance from store representatives

Cons:

  • Queues during peak hours
  • Limited operating hours for some stores

III. What to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Cancún International Airport – Registration Process

To register and activate your SIM card at Cancún International Airport, you’ll need to have the following documents and information ready:

  • Valid passport or government-issued ID
  • Proof of onward travel (e.g., return flight ticket or bus ticket)
  • Residential address in Mexico (if available)
  • Payment method

The registration process typically involves:

  1. Completing a registration form with personal and contact details.
  2. Providing the required identification documents.
  3. Choosing a prepaid or postpaid plan option.
  4. Making the payment for the SIM card and plan.
  5. Receiving the activated SIM card and instructions for setup.

IV. Best Tourist Cancún Airport SIM Card Options and Price

best tourists sim options at cacun airport
Best tourists sim options at CanCun airport

When choosing the best SIM card package for visitors, it’s essential to consider the duration of your stay in Cancún and your expected data usage. Here are some recommendations:

1. For short stays (up to 7 days):

  • Telcel’s Amigo Sin Límite plan with 4 GB for $11.83 (200 MXN)
  • Movistar’s Paquete Turista with 6 GB for $11.83 (200 MXN)
  • AT&T’s Paquete Turista with 5 GB for $11.83 (200 MXN)

2. For longer stays (up to 15 days):

  • Telcel’s Amigo Sin Límite plan with 8 GB for $17.75 (300 MXN)
  • Movistar’s Paquete Turista with 12 GB for $17.75 (300 MXN)
  • AT&T’s Paquete Turista with 10 GB for $17.75 (300 MXN)

3. For extended stays (up to 30 days):

  • Telcel’s Amigo Sin Límite plan with Unlimited* data for $29.59 (500 MXN)
  • Movistar’s Paquete Turista with Unlimited* data for $29.59 (500 MXN)
  • AT&T’s Paquete Turista with 25 GB for $29.59 (500 MXN)

Note: Prices are subject to change, so it's recommended to confirm pricing at the airport before purchasing.

V. Mexico eSIM for Cancún – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Cancún Airport

gigago esim mexico
eSIM Mexico by Gigago

You are finding another effective method basides SIM card, aren’t you? Congratulations! You come to the right place. Gigago will deal all your matters with the most convenient services: 24/7 response, reasonable price, easy to use.

For Mexico, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $12.00

What is great about Gigago’s Mexico eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $12.00$224.50 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Mexico, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VII. FAQs about SIM Card at Cancún Airport

Are the SIM card prices at Cancún Airport more expensive than buying outside the airport?

SIM cards purchased at Cancún Airport may be slightly more expensive than buying them outside the airport due to the convenience factor. However, the price difference is generally not significant.

Can I buy a prepaid SIM card at Cancún Airport?

Yes, prepaid or pay-as-you-go SIM cards are available.

Where exactly can I find the SIM card vendors at Cancún Airport?

In the arrivals area and main terminal building.

What data packages are available at Cancún Airport?

Options like 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, and unlimited data packages.

VIII. Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a SIM card at Cancún airport is a convenient option for travelers seeking immediate connectivity upon arrival. This not only ensures that you are equipped to communicate with loved ones but also aids in navigating your destination with ease. 

Whether for business or leisure, a sim card at Cancun airport offers a seamless start to your Mexican adventure, keeping you connected from the moment you land.