Buying a SIM card at Kaohsiung International Airport 2024: Travelers Guide

Daisy Rodriguez
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Latest update: April 2024

Night markets, temples, and scenery lure tourists to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s southern city. Modern travelers need the internet. There are various SIM card alternatives, making selection difficult. No worries, adventurous explorer! You may stay connected with this SIM Card at Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH). 

SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport

I. Should You Buy a SIM Card at Kaohsiung International Airport Airport (KHH)?

Kaohsiung International Airport Airport
Kaohsiung International Airport

Traditionally, travelers grab a SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport (KHH) for instant connection. But is it the right choice for you?

Not necessarily! It depends on your priorities:

  • Urgent internet? Airport kiosks offer the quickest fix.
  • Convenience matters? Staff assistance and immediate activation come with a premium.
  • Budget-conscious? Consider online purchases or convenience stores outside the airport for potentially better deals.

While the airport provides a safe and familiar option, venturing out might unlock wider choices and lower prices. Weigh your needs before landing to ensure a smooth, connected Kaohsiung adventure!

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

Kaohsiung International Airport
Kaohsiung International Airport Maps

Are they landing at Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) and craving instant connectivity? Two main paths await you: grabbing a SIM card upon arrival or planning with online purchases.

1. Pre-order Convenience: Pickup at the Airport

Planning offers the benefit of browsing various options online before your trip. Search for “Taiwan SIM card” and find websites with airport pickup. Check product descriptions for specific instructions, including airport maps with marked pickup points.

What to Prepare:

  • Passport
  • Unlocked phone
  • Payment method (check website)

Cost: Varies depending on provider and plan, but generally more expensive than airport purchases.

Pros:

  • Convenient pickup without airport queues.
  • A more comprehensive range of plans and providers compared to airport kiosks.

Cons:

  • Requires planning and choosing a provider with airport pickup.
  • Limited to providers offering the service.

2. Airport Kiosks: Instant Activation, Familiar Names

You can buy SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport in carrier kiosks
You can buy SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport in carrier kiosks

Chunghwa, Far EasTone, and Taiwan Mobile are leading mobile network carriers, so you may go online when you land at their kiosks. Convenience shops such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart may also carry SIM cards, but availability may vary.

Pros:

  • Instant activation and assistance from staff.
  • Familiarity with significant brands.

Cons:

  • It can be crowded, especially during peak arrival times.
  • Limited plan options compared to online purchases.
  • Potentially higher prices compared to other options.

2.1. Chunghwa

  • Location: Arrival Hall, near baggage claim.
  • Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
  • Plan: 5GB valid for 7 days (USD 20).

2.2. Far EasTone

  • Location: Arrival Hall, near the information counter.
  • Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
  • What to prepare: Passport, unlocked phone, cash/card (check store).
  • Cost: 3GB valid for 30 days (USD 15).

2.3. Taiwan Mobile:

  • Location: Arrival Hall, near the information counter.
  • Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
  • What to prepare: Passport, unlocked phone, cash/card (check store).
  • Cost: 10GB, valid for 30 days (USD 25).

Note: Remember, these are just examples. Availability and prices may vary—research specific providers and plans before your trip for the most accurate information.

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

Landing in Kaohsiung and ready to activate your internet lifeline? Pack these essentials for a speedy registration SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport:

  • Proof of identity: Passport or valid ID – your gateway to connectivity.
  • Unlocked phone: Ensure your phone is network-ready to embrace Taiwanese connectivity.
  • Cash or card: Be prepared for both, as payment preferences might vary across kiosks.

With these simple steps, you can get online in Kaohsiung city.

Bonus Tip: Download the provider's app beforehand (on your home network!), but skip the SIM removal tool – helpful staff will assist with activation!

IV. Best Tourist Kaohsiung Airport SIM Cards Options and Price

Navigating the myriad of SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport options can be overwhelming. Fear not, travelers! Here’s a quick rundown of popular choices (prices are approximate and subject to change):

1. Chunghwa Telecom

  • Light Explorer: 5GB valid for 7 days (USD 20)
  • Social Butterfly: 10GB valid for 30 days (USD 25)
  • Data Powerhouse: 20GB valid for 30 days (USD 35)

2. Far EasTone Telecom

  • Essential Connect: 3GB valid for 30 days (USD 15)
  • Steady Stream: 8GB valid for 30 days (USD 20)
  • Heavy User: 20GB valid for 30 days (USD 30)

3. Taiwan Mobile

  • Quick Start: 5GB valid for 7 days (USD 18)
  • Stay Connected: 10GB valid for 30 days (USD 23)
  • Unlimited Freedom: Unlimited data valid for 7 days (USD 38)

Note: These are just a few examples. Research current plans and prices directly from providers for the most accurate information.

V. Taiwan eSIM for Kaohsiung – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Kaohsiung International Airport

You can purchase Taiwan eSIM on GGG before arriving at Kaohsiung airport
You can purchase Taiwan eSIM on Gigago before arriving at Kaohsiung airport

Tired of fiddling with physical SIM cards? Embrace the future with Taiwan eSIMs! These digital alternatives offer:

  • Instant activation: No airport queues, scan and connect.
  • Multiple data packages: Choose the perfect plan for your needs, from casual browsing to data-hungry adventures.
  • No physical card hassle: Skip the risk of losing or damaging a physical SIM.
  • Eco-friendly: Reduce plastic waste and embrace a sustainable travel choice.

Leading provider Gigago offers flexible eSIMs, starting from just 1GB for 1 day at 7,5 USD. Explore their website for Taiwan-specific options and unleash your digital Kaohsiung adventure!

Link to Gigago homepage: Gigago eSIM | Local and International eSIM plans for travelers

Link to Gigago eSIM product country page: Taiwan eSIM – Prepaid data plan for travelers – Gigago

Note: Check your phone's compatibility before purchasing.

VI. Where to Buy a SIM card Outside Kaohsiung International Airport?

While the airport offers quick connectivity, consider exploring other options for potentially better deals SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport and broader choices:

1. Official Mobile Operator (MO) Stores:

  • Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone Telecom, and Taiwan Mobile have stores throughout Kaohsiung. Ask your hotel for the nearest location or search online.
  • Pros: Wider range of plans and potentially lower prices than airport options.
  • Cons: Requires venturing out from your starting point.

2. Convenience Stores:

  • 7-Eleven and FamilyMart offer limited SIM card options, which is especially useful if you need a quick top-up.
  • Pros: Convenient and readily accessible.
  • Cons: Limited plan choices and potentially higher prices.

3. eSIM:

  • If your phone supports it, consider an eSIM for ultimate convenience. Providers like Gigago offer instant activation and flexible data packages.
  • Pros: No physical card hassle, instant activation, potentially cheaper than airport options.
  • Cons: Requires compatible phone and careful research for optimal plan choice.

Recommendation:

  • Consider buying outside the airport for a more comprehensive selection and lower prices.
  • If your phone supports eSIMs and you prioritize convenience, explore eSIM options for a hassle-free experience.

VII. FAQs about SIM Card at Kaohsiung International Airport

Is the Kaohsiung airport the exclusive place to purchase a SIM card?

Not! You have the option to purchase SIM cards from official or convenience shops located outside the airport. Alternatively, you may choose the more convenient eSIM if your phone supports it.

What documentation is required to purchase a SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport?

For registration purposes, you must always have a legitimate government-issued ID, such as a passport.

Activating the SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport is possible?

Yeah, for the most part! Usually, kiosks can assist, and eSIMs activate immediately when scanned.

My SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport has gone missing. What now?

To discuss replacement choices and possible expenses, contact the provider immediately.

Is the eSIM an excellent substitute for the used SIM Card at Kaohsiung Airport?

Electronic SIMs (eSIMs) provide quick activation, customizable data plans, and environmental friendliness—assume your phone is compatible with them. It may be wise to do some preliminary research on providers and plans.

VIII. Conclusion

SIM Card at Kaohsiung International Airport kiosks offer a quick internet fix, especially if you arrive late or crave an instant connection. However, remember the trade-offs: potentially higher prices, limited options, and sometimes even waiting in queues.

For a more relaxed and potentially budget-friendly experience, venture beyond the airport. Explore official stores and convenience stores, or, if your phone allows, dive into the future with eSIMs for instant activation and flexible data plans. No matter your choice, remember to research beforehand and prioritize what matters most for your connected Kaohsiung adventure!