How to Get Mobile Internet in Laos for Travelers: What Option to Choose?

Learn about mobile internet in Laos that tourists should know and different connectivity options to stay connected in Laos for tourists.

Going to visit Laos and looking for ways to get mobile internet there? The good news is that mobile internet in Laos has significantly improved in recent years. So, when you visit this beautiful country, staying connected is now more convenient than ever. You can confidently explore all that Laos has to offer while staying connected to the internet and making the most of your travel experience.

I. Mobile Internet in Laos – Coverage and Speed

Laos has 03 big mobile network operators, which are Unitel, Lao Telecom, and ETL.

Below are some need-to-know information about each one:

1. Coverage

Below we explain coverage performance of each Laos mobile network operators:

1.1 Unitel 

Unitel is the largest provider in Laos.  Unitel claims that it covers 97% of the population, and 4G/LTE can be found in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Champasak, Savannakhet, and other major towns and provinces.

1.2 Lao Telecom

Lao Telecom offers 2G and 3G services to its customers, with limited 4G coverage available in major cities. Its network covers around 80% of the population in Laos, which is significantly lower than Unitel’s coverage. However, Lao Telecom’s services are relatively stable and reliable.

1.3 ETL

ETL offers 2G, 3G, and limited 4G services to its customers, with coverage available in major cities and towns in Laos. ETL has also invested in expanding its coverage area, making it a reliable option for customers in rural areas.

2. Speed

Lao Telecom Communication, LTC is an internet service provider which operates in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Currently, it ranks in the place 1 from 8 providers in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Unitel hold the second position. And ETL has the slowest speed experience in comparison with LTC and Unitel.

II. What are Connectivity Options for Tourists to Laos & Costs?

You can get mobile internet in Laos through 3 options:

• Roaming with Laos mobile network operators: Let’s see what they are: 

1.Laos eSIM

What is it? : An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into a device.

Pros:

• Easy to use.
• No need to switch physical SIM cards.
• Instant activation and easy setup process.
• Various plans with affordable costs.
• Purchase eSIM before arrival for instant internet access.
• Keep original phone number.

Cons: Requires a compatible, fairly modern phone with eSIM functionality.

2. Roaming with Laos operators

What is it? The ability to connect to a cellular network and access services when traveling to Laos.

Pros:

• Just need to switch on roaming in your phone’s settings.
• No need for additional devices or services.
• Keep your existing phone number.
• No need to unlock your phone.

Cons:

• The cost can be extremely high with certain mobile network providers.
• Roaming may come with limits on data usage and speed, depending on your network.

3. Connect to Laos Public WiFi Networks

What is it? Accessing free WiFi in public areas like restaurants, coffee shops, and convenience stores.

Pros:

• Easy and familiar for most individuals.
• Free.

Cons:

• Unreliable network.
• Unstable speed and experience.
• Not available everywhere.

II. Internet Rates in Laos

Travelers can see overall information below about Internet Rates in Laos to have the most suitable choice:

Option	Cost
Laos eSIM	You can get a Lao SIM card for 10 000 LAK (0.50 USD) from Unitel, Lao Telecom (LaoTel), TPlus (formerly Beeline) & ETL in their stores.
Roaming with Laos operators	You’ll need to contact your local provider for specific details on costs. Some charge around $130 per month, while others are more like $100 – it really depends.
Connect to Laos Public WiFi Networks	Free

► Our Recommendation: Use a Laos SIM Card or eSIM to have a reliable connection with affordable costs

III. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Laos

Which type of SIM card to buy to get mobile internet in Laos? You can choose either data-only SIM plans and data, voice and text plans.

According to experienced travelers, data only SIM cards is always the best choice for tourists due to its convenience and friendly-budget cost. There are some big mobile operators which provides travelers with various data-only Laos plans: 

Lao Telecom SIM Cards: Several Laos SIM Card packages is offered

• 5 GB, valid for 3 days for $0.88
• 7 GB, valid for 7 days for $1.46

Unitel SIM Cards: Unitel has several different prepaid plans: 

• 15 GB, valid for 10 days for $1.46
• 30 GB, valid for 15 days for $2.33
• 60 GB, valid for 30 days for $4.67
• 80 GB, valid for 30 days for $5.78

TPlus SIM Cards: TPlus offers two main SIM-only plans for tourists:

• 2 GB, valid for 1 day for $0.58
• 40 GB, valid for 30 days for $2.92

Note: Tourists should check the official websites for the most updated prices

IV. Data eSIM for Laos – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet for Tourists

If you’re planning to get a eSIM in Laos, you have a few options. You can buy one in person at international airports, in mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or even buy online.

However, it’s worth noting that buying a SIM card at the airport may be a bit more expensive, and the data offers might not be as good. So, we suggest considering other places to purchase your SIM card instead of the airport.

1. Buy eSIM Laos from Laos mobile operators

Travelers can visit the mobile provider stores or websites to get Laos eSIM. Just remember to show your passport if needed.

Keep in mind that if you buy an eSIM this way, you might not have immediate access to data upon your arrival. So, if it’s important for you to stay connected right away, you could consider using an eSIM or buying an Asia prepaid SIM card online.

2. Buy eSIM from Gigago

If you want to have your Laos SIM card ready when you arrive, you can buy it online from websites like Gigago.com – a reliable eSIM provider.

On Gigago website, you’ll find various plans available. There are plenty of options to explore, so take a look and make sure the plans you choose cover all your needs. 

For Laos, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, with prices ranging from $6.90 – $12.90 . Their minimum 15 GB/ 10 days starts at just $6.90 . With this range of affordable plans, Gigago can accommodate any type of user and trip length in Laos. Whether you only need occasional internet access or plan to stream extensively, Gigago has a Laos eSIM plan to fit your needs and budget. The flexibility of their pricing makes Gigago a great eSIM solution for travel to Laos.

Besides, you also have additional benefits when you buy Laos eSIM from Gigago: 

• No passport, No ID Card
• 100% online. Receive eSIM via email.
• eSIM works in all destinations in Laos. 
• Instant delivery through email
• 24/7 support
• Tourists can keep original SIM

V. FAQs about Mobile Internet in Laos

VI. Conclusion

When choosing options to get mobile internet in Laos, it is important to consider factors such as data requirements, budget, international connectivity, coverage and customer support.