This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to get and activate a Lao Telecom SIM or eSIM, including information about data plans, coverage areas, and how to use them when you visit Laos.
Are you thinking about a tour in Laos and don’t know where to get a SIM card throughout your trip? We will recommend Lao Telecom which provides various great services for travelers in Laos.
This article will help you to get the most suitable Lao Telecom SIM card for your trips!
In this article
Lao Telecom is the leading telecommunications service provider in Laos, the second largest mobile network operator in Laos after Unitel Laos:
Here are some facts about Lao Telecom (LTC):
Lao Telecom provides solid national coverage, it may not be the “greatest” choice in terms of network size/speed. But for reliable basic connectivity across Laos at affordable prepaid prices, it’s still a good local option for tourists.
You can check out Lao Telecom’s coverage map with service cover up to 90% of Lao’s population above.
So, you can find that this map shows how this network operator has quite a big network, 4G/LTE covers lots of places, including major cities and countryside areas. Lao Telecom’s 5G coverage has been slowly expanding since 2020. And so now, Lao Telecom held another 5G launch ceremony during the Lao Digital Week 2024 event, Lao Telecom revealed it is now offering 5G services in 28 locations across Vientiane, including tourist attractions, several shopping malls, and universities, and Wattay International Airport.
When it comes to network coverage across Laos, Lao Telecom has the largest coverage, with near-nationwide 4G. So, in terms of coverage, Lao Telecom should be your choice. Most of the time, users say that they can browse the internet pretty fast and stay connected without any problems. This means you can easily do like use social media such as TikTok, Facebook, or Instagram, watch videos, or even play games online.
According to this result by Broadbandspeedchecker, Lao Telecom has this 4G/LTE network that’s lightning fast in major population in Laos, with Download speed is 41.81 Mb/s and Upload speed is 20.67 MB/s, which means you can browse the web, watch videos, or use apps smoothly.
Those speeds might vary slightly from destination to destination, but overall, Lao Telecom provides the fastest speed now.
Yes, Lao Telecom launched support for eSIMs in late 2020, making them one of the earlier operators in Southeast Asia to do so. If you are still worried about the best choice. Let’s compare the physical SIM and eSIM below:
| Features | SIM Card | eSIM |
| Pros | Compatible with nearly all phones | No physical card needed |
| Can be bought easily locally | Can load multiple profiles on one device | |
| No activation fees | Manage profiles remotely online | |
| Cons | Requires insertion in device | Limited to newer flagship devices |
| Can be lost and damaged | Requires cloud connection for set up | |
| Only one or two SIM per device | Not universally adopted yet |
In summary, eSIM eliminates physical SIM hassles but needs a compatible smart device. Besides, eSIM provides advantages for international travelers and flexibility to change providers. So with these conveniences, eSIM is also a great choice for you when traveling to Laos.
Lao Telecom provides variety of SIM cards for tourists. This allows customizing the solution based on your devices and travel durations. Nowadays, the best option for your trip is a Jaidee SIM by Lao Telecom with many packages. You can check some recommended plans:
| Package | Data | Validity | Price (KIP) | Price (USD) |
| Jaidee SIM | 5 GB | 3 days | 20000K | $0.95 |
| Jaidee SIM | 7 GB | 7 days | 30000K | $1.43 |
| Jaidee SIM | 90 GB | 30 days | 110000K | $5.27 |
These packages are provided 3G, 4G, and 5G network that you can connect fluently. Overall, the Jaidee SIM for 7 days plan provides a good balance of data, time, and price suitable for most tourists’ needs in Laos without incurring excessive costs. The other options may provide more data but it seems not to be suitable for short trip lengths.
Upon arrival in Laos, getting a Lao Telecom SIM card is easy. You can buy Lao Telecom SIM card or eSIM at some options there.
In Laos, you can buy SIM cards from various sources, including the following:
Note: If you need to change the physical size of your SIM card during your trip, most providers will charge a handling fee for the alteration. The exact fee varies between carriers, so it's important to check individual policies.
In this case, a Lao Telecom SIM card or eSIM plan may be a better-suited option. As the one of large mobile network operators in Laos, Lao Telecom has second reported download and upload speeds according to tests.
Travelers with eSIM-compatible devices have a convenient option with Laos Lao Telecom – their digital eSIM plans eliminate the need for physical delivery.
Gigago is considered one of the top providers of eSIM plans connecting to the Lao Telecom network in Laos. This is thanks to several advantages they offer, including:
Let’s see Lao Telecom eSIM packages as alternatives for Lao Telecom SIMs:
Lao Telecom eSIM plans
| Plan Name | Data Allowance | Validity | Price |
| Classic 1 Day | 500MB | 1 day | $1.50 |
| Weekly | 1.5GB | 7 days | $5 |
| Monthly Lite | 3GB | 30 days | $10 |
| Monthly Classic | 5GB | 30 days | $15 |
| Monthly Plus | 10GB | 30 days | $20 |
| 3 Month Basic | 10GB | 90 days | $35 |
| 6 Month Standard | 30GB | 180 days | $60 |
GIGAGO delivers a quality eSIM experience on Lao Telecom’s network through factors like varied plans, affordable prices, and accessible customer service. You can search some of their best plan options:
Detailed setup guides are provided in multiple languages to ensure smooth installation of the eSIM on any compatible device. If you have any activation issues, customer support is available 24/7 via live chat, email, and WhatsApp.
For Laos, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 15 GB for 10 days with $5.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Laos eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $5.50 – $12.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Laos, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
To ensure ongoing connectivity, it’s essential to keep your Lao Telecom SIM card topped up with sufficient credit.
Here are some easy options for tourists to top up their Lao Telecom SIM card while visiting Laos:
1. Is Lao Telecom’s mobile data fast enough for gaming?
Yes, it’s generally possible to play game online on your mobile internet. The thing is, the quality might depend on how good your mobile coverage is. But overall, it works quite well.
2. Does Lao Telecom block or slow down any internet service?
Overall, there is little evidence that Lao Telecom systematically blocks or throttles major internet services. As a state-owned operator, they may comply with government requests to restrict access to certain websites/ platforms in rare cases. But don’t worry, common internet activities like social media, engines, new sites, and streaming work normally without restrictions.
3. Can I use eSIMs for calls or text messages (SMS)?
eSIM plans do not include a phone number for receiving calls and texts.
With the features, data, and convenient rates of Lao Telecom’s network packages, you can comfortably connect to data during your trip to Laos. We hope this detailed guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the right decision for your connectivity needs in Laos. Buy a Lao Telecom SIM card or eSIM that best suits your data usage needs, trip length, and budget for smooth connectivity throughout your trip. Wishing you a happy trip to Laos!
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