Best Mexico SIM Cards for Travelers 

Mia Moore

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Latest update: June 2024

This article is for international tourists visiting Mexico seeking info on easy and affordable mobile internet access via local Mexico SIM Cards. Travelers often struggle to stay connected abroad due to high roaming fees or lack of WiFi.

The goal of this post is to guide readers on buying prepaid Mexico SIM Cards for their travel needs, the best networks, and setting up local SIM cards or eSIM for cost-effective mobile internet in Mexico.

I. Where to Buy a Tourist SIM Card for Mexico?

Tourists have 04 ways to buy a Mexico SIM card.

1. Buy a prepaid Mexico eSIM card online before traveling

• How: Order a Mexico eSIM card from online providers before your trip. You’ll receive a QR code via email.
• Where: Websites of eSIM providers
• Pros: No need to hunt for SIM cards after arriving; already activated. Save time & hassle.
• Cons: Limited to certain providers’ networks; may need eligible devices.

2. Buy physical Mexico SIM at Mexico airports

• How: Purchase SIM cards at airport shops upon arrival at airports like Mexico City International Airport, Cancún International Airport (CUN),…However, Mexico does not have many facilities for purchasing SIM cards at its airports. For example, you won’t find many SIM card shops at the airports in Cancun or Puerto Vallarta.
• Where: Convenience stores at airports
• Pros: Immediate access to the local network.
• Cons: Limited options; SIM activation process required; not all airports offer.

3. Buy physical Mexico SIM in the cities

• How: Purchase SIM from official stores or convenience chains like Oxxo across cities.
• Where: Telcel, AT&T, Movistar stores, etc.
• Pros: Easy access to all local SIM options. Support available.
• Cons: Require SIM activation process; needs device compatibility check.

4. Buy Mexico eSIM online

• How: With an eligible device, order eSIM online from providers. Scan the QR code to activate upon arrival.
• Where: Websites of eSIM providers like Gigago
• Pros: Convenient activation; wider choice of data packages & providers’ networks.
• Cons: Require a compatible device; not a physical SIM.

► Recommendation: The best choice for travelers in Mexico will vary based on what matters most to them:

• If you’re watching your budget: Opting for a Mexico SIM card in urban areas offers various affordable plans with competitive rates.
• If you have a phone that supports eSIM: Getting an eSIM online before heading to Mexico can save you time and the hassle of switching SIM cards. See the list of phones compatible with eSIM.

II. What Are The Best SIM Cards for Tourists?

1. Best Mexico Telcel SIM Card Plans and Price

Here are Telcel data plans and prices:

• 100 MXN ($5): 1.2 GB Internet valid for 17 days
• 150 MXN ($7.36): 2 GB Internet valid for 28 days
• 200 MXN ($10): 3 GMB Internet valid for 30 days 
• 300 MXN ($15): 5 GB Internet valid for 33 days
• 500 MXN ($25): 10 GB Internet valid for 33 days

Insight: The step-up pricing model of Telcel’s unlimited data plans seems economical and appeals to users with varying internet needs, but the most value appears to lie in the 500 MXN plan which provides a substantial increase in data for a relatively moderate price increase.

2. Best Mexico Movistar SIM Card Plans and Price

Here are Movistar data plans and prices:

• 100 MXN ($5): 1 GB + 450 MB extra Internet valid for 21 days
• 150 MXN ($7.36): 2 GB + 750 MB extra Internet valid for 28 days
• 200 MXN ($10): 2 GB + 1,200 MB extra Internet valid for 30 days
• 250 MXN ($12): 2 GB Internet +1,450 MB extra valid for 33 days
• 300 MXN ($15): 2 GB + 1,800 MB extra Internet valid for 35 days

Insight: Movistar’s prepaid mobile data plans in Mexico offer reasonable value, with the lower cost options providing over 1GB of data usage valid for 3 weeks or more. The plans present a decent option for staying digitally connected while traveling in Mexico with their supplementary data bonuses extending the base allowances. 

3. Best Mexico AT&T SIM Card Plans and Price

Here are AT&T data plans and prices:

• 100 MXN ($5): 1.5 GB Internet valid for 14 days
• 150 MXN ($7.36): 2.3 GB Internet valid for 25 days
• 200 MXN ($10): 3 GB Internet valid for 30 days
• 300 MXN ($15): 4.5 GB Internet valid for 30 days
• 500 MXN ($25): 7.5 GB Internet valid for 30 days
• 1,000 MXN ($50): 15 GB Internet valid for 30 days

Insight: AT&T offers reasonably priced mobile data plans in Mexico, with options starting at $5 for 1.5GB valid for two weeks. The plans provide decent allowances of data to address basic connectivity needs for both short and longer-term trips to Mexico.

Recommendation: Telcel would be the best overall operator due to the strong value of its 500 MXN plan. Movistar and AT&T also offer fair options. I would recommend Telcel for extended/heavy data use trips and Movistar or AT&T for shorter trips with lighter data needs.

III. Do I Need to Buy a SIM Card for Mexico Travel?

Yes, certainly. Buying a SIM card for Mexico travel is a reasonable ways for several reasons:

• Cost-Effective Rates: Using a local Mexican SIM card can save you from high roaming charges. Get local rates for calls, texts, and data.
• High-Speed Internet: Mexico offers good coverage and fast internet, especially in cities and tourist spots. A local SIM card provides better connectivity to navigate maps and share updates easily.
• Easy to Obtain: Getting a SIM card in Mexico is simple. Buy one at the airport, stores, or phone shops with just a photo ID.
• Stay Connected: Stay in touch with a local SIM card without relying on hotel Wi-Fi. Make calls, send texts, and use data on the move.

Opting for a local SIM card when traveling to Mexico is a smart choice for tourists who prioritize ease, affordability, and the comfort of constant connectivity. 

IV. What to Prepare to Buy Prepaid SIM cards in Mexico?

Buying a prepaid SIM card in Mexico is incredibly simple, as you don’t need your passport or any form of ID. Here’s what you need to know:

1. No Registration Required: Prepaid tourist SIM cards in Mexico are not registered under your name or passport.
2. Easy Purchase: You can buy a prepaid SIM card from various locations, and it works immediately.
3. Instant Connectivity: Once you insert the SIM card into your phone, you are instantly connected to data. These SIM cards come pre-registered.

Important Note:

• Unlocked Phone: Ensure that your phone is unlocked. A Mexican SIM card will only work in an unlocked phone.
• Check with Provider: If you’re unsure whether your phone is unlocked, contact your home country provider before your trip. This applies to international SIM cards and eSIMs as well.

V. What Types of Mexico SIM Cards Are Available For Tourists?

There exist 2 kinds of prepaid SIM cards tailored for tourists visiting Mexico: Physical SIM and virtual SIM.

Below is a comparison chart of physical and virtual SIM cards designed for Mexico trips to assist you in selecting the most suitable option for your needs:

As you see, physical SIM cards work with any phone but need a store visit in Mexico. On the other hand, eSIMs are easier to set up before your trip from anywhere, as long as your phone supports eSIM technology.

▶ Our Recommendations:

• If your phone lacks eSIM but you’re fine with traditional calls/texts, get a physical prepaid data-only Mexico SIM.
• If your phone has eSIM, consider a prepaid data-only eSIM for Mexico to avoid physical SIM drawbacks.

VI. Mexico eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Cards to Get Internet in Mexico

Visitors heading to Mexico can get online in different ways, such as roaming, free Wifi, pocket Wifi, or a Mexico SIM card. Yet, opting for an eSIM for Mexico brings unique benefits:

• Easy Setup: Get and activate your eSIM online on your phone before your journey, skipping the hassle of dealing with a physical SIM card.
• Instant Connection: Enjoy data as soon as you land in Mexico, no need to search for SIM cards.
• Cost-Effective: eSIM plans come at lower prices compared to daily roaming fees.
• Secure Access: No worries about using unsecured public Wifi networks when you have reliable eSIM internet access.

If you’re in Mexico or planning a trip there, looking for a reliable eSIM service? Gigago is always the top choice. 

Gigago offers several data plan options for Mexico, ranging from $12.00 – $224.50 .

 Their entry-level 1GB/7-day plan starts at just $12.00 . With this range of affordable plans, Gigago can accommodate any type of user and trip length in Mexico. 

Whether you only need occasional internet access or plan to stream extensively, Gigago has a Mexican eSIM plan to fit your needs and budget. Buying Mexico eSIM from Gigago now!

VII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in the Mexico?

The validity of a tourist SIM card in Mexico depends on the provider and the plan you select. Typically, these SIM cards are available for different durations, such as:

• 7 days: Great for short visits or one-week vacations.
• 15 days: Suitable for stays of around two weeks.
• 30 days: Ideal for longer trips lasting up to a month.

Be sure to review the specific terms of the SIM card you purchase, as some plans might include options to extend the duration or add more credit as needed.Share

VIII. How to Use Mexico Prepaid SIM Cards and eSIM?

You’ve picked the top network provider and data deals for your Mexico visit. Let’s find out how to connect using Mexico prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs in this section below. 

1. Using prepaid Mexico tourist SIM Cards

To begin, buy a prepaid SIM card for Mexico. Here’s what to do next:

1. Switch off your phone and insert the SIM card.
2. Turn it on and follow the instructions.
3. Adjust network settings (if required) to get online.
4. Dial the provider’s number on the SIM package to check your balance and plan.

2. Setting up and activating Mexico eSIM 

To get started with a prepaid eSIM in Mexico, just follow these steps:

1. Check if your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.
2. Register for an eSIM plan online. You’ll receive a QR code via email.
3. Access your device’s eSIM settings, scan the code, and follow the instructions.
4. Restart your phone – your eSIM is set up for Internet access.

IX. FAQs about Mexico SIM Cards

X. Conclusion

In conclusion, using prepaid Mexico SIM cards and eSIMs can keep you connected while traveling. Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T are some major carriers with good coverage and affordable plans. Accessing data and call/text services online will be convenient. For those with eSIM-enabled devices, an eSIM is the top choice.