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This article is for travelers visiting Cambodia in 2024, looking to learn how to buy SIM card in Phnom Penh. Getting mobile internet access abroad can be tricky due to unfamiliar carriers and plans.
Buying a SIM card at Phnom Penh Airport (2024): Travelers Guide
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This article is for travelers coming from abroad who might have trouble getting local SIM cards at Phnom Penh International Airport. Many visitors don’t know where or how to get a SIM card at the airport.
The aim is to help you buy a SIM card at Phnom Penh Airport in 2024, covering your options, registration process, and tips on picking the right provider based on your data needs and budget. By following this guide, you can easily grab a SIM card when you land to stay connected throughout your trip to Cambodia.
I. Should You Buy a SIM Card at Phnom Penh Airport (PNH)?
Actually, whether or not to buy a SIM card at Phnom Penh Airport (PNH) has no exact answer. It varies based on the traveler’s needs. Among ways to buy a SIM card for Cambodia travel, purchasing SIM cards at the airport is a common choice. This way is suitable for those:
- need internet access urgently as soon as they land
- don’t mind queuing and going through the activation process
However, buying a SIM card at the airport:
- is usually pricier than other options
- offers fewer package/plan choices than local or online purchases
► Recommendation: Travelers wanting to save some cash and not minding a bit of a wait for internet access could find better SIM card deals elsewhere. If you’re all about quick access, cool with the activation drill, and up for convenience, the airport SIM card is your go-to!
But if you’re more budget-conscious or okay with setting up the internet a bit later, exploring other SIM card options beyond the airport could be a good idea.
II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Phnom Penh Airport?
There are 2 common ways to get a SIM card at Phnom Penh Airport: buy it online and pick it up at the airport; and buy it upon arrival.
1. Buying Online Before Departure and Pick Up at the Airport
This convenient option ensures your SIM card is ready upon arrival, saving time searching for a provider at the airport.
To collect your pre-ordered SIM card, go to the pickup location near arrivals. Look for signs or kiosks with the provider’s logo. Present your order confirmation or ID for the activated SIM card.
What to prepare:
- Your order confirmation or ID
- Unlocked device
Pre-ordering a Cambodia SIM card costs ~ $5 to $15, based on data and validity. It’s convenient but may be pricier than airport kiosks.
2. Buying a SIM Card Upon Arrival
When you get to Phnom Penh International Airport, you can grab a SIM card from the kiosks and stands of different providers (Metfone, Cellcard, and Smart) in the arrivals zone. You’ll usually find them between the customs table and the exit, on your right.
What to prepare:
- Your passport or ID
- Unlocked device
- Cash (USD or local currency)
Buying a SIM card at the airport is super convenient – you can get set up right away upon arrival. Just keep in mind prices might be a bit higher than buying from a provider’s store outside the airport.
III. How Much Does a SIM Card at Phnom Penh Airport Cost?
Cambodia SIM card prices at Phnom Penh Airport vary depending on your chosen provider and plan, typically ranging from $5 to $12.
These SIM cards include initial credit and prices are affected by data capacity, call duration, and package validity. Below is a short comparison between some options:
| Provider | Offer | Price | Data | Validity | Call |
| Metfone | $5 for 40 GB | $5 | 40 GB | 7 days | Not specified |
| $7 for 40 GB | $7 | 40 GB | 14 days | Not specified | |
| $12 for 100 GB | $12 | 100 GB | 30 days | Not specified | |
| Smart | $6 for 21 GB (7-day deal) | $6 | 21 GB | 7 days | Not specified |
| $3 for 25 GB (standard rate) | $3 | 25 GB | 7 days | Not specified | |
| $5 for 35 GB (standard rate) | $5 | 35 GB | 15 days | Not specified | |
| $10 for 60 GB (standard rate) | $10 | 60 GB | 30 days | Not specified | |
| Cellcard | $6 (standard tourist SIM card pack) | $6 | 5 GB/day | 7 days | $50 in calls |
| Data bundle ($2-$10) available for >7 days | Varies | Varies | Varies | Not specified |
Note: The prices can be slightly varied at different times. So check it carefully before buying!
IV. What to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Phnom Penh Airport – Registration Process
To get a tourist SIM card at Phnom Penh International Airport, prepare:
- Passport/Visa: Have a copy of your passport ready. You might need more info like a local address or work permit, depending on the network.
- Unlocked Phone
- Cash: Retailers at the airport accept cash only, so keep some US dollars or Riel handy.
- Data Plans:
- Know the data package you want in terms of data, calls, and validity.
- Choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Prepare these to ease the SIM card registration process at the airport and stay connected during your Cambodia visit.
V. Best Tourist Phnom Penh Airport SIM Cards Options and Price
Here is a detailed overview of the best tourist SIM card options and pricing at Phnom Penh Airport. Hope this helps you choose the best plan.
| Carrier | Data Package | Price (USD) | Price (KHR) |
| Metfone | 3GB, 7 days | ~$3 – $5 | ~12,000 – 20,000 KHR |
| 5GB, 15 days | ~$5 – $8 | ~20,000 – 32,000 KHR | |
| 10GB, 30 days | ~$8 – $12 | ~32,000 – 48,000 KHR | |
| Cellcard | 3GB, 7 days | ~$4 – $6 | ~16,000 – 24,000 KHR |
| 5GB, 15 days | ~$6 – $9 | ~24,000 – 36,000 KHR | |
| 10GB, 30 days | ~$9 – $13 | ~36,000 – 52,000 KHR | |
| Smart | 3GB, 7 days | ~$3 – $5 | ~12,000 – 20,000 KHR |
| 5GB, 15 days | ~$5 – $8 | ~20,000 – 32,000 KHR | |
| 10GB, 30 days | ~$8 – $12 | ~32,000 – 48,000 KHR |
► Recommendation: The best SIM card package for visitors in Phnom Penh is the Cellcard 5GB, 15-day package. It offers a good balance of data and validity at a reasonable price of $6 - $9.
VI. Cambodia eSIM for Phnom Penh – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Phnom Penh Airport
If your phone supports eSIM, there’s no reason not to try it for your trip to Phnom Penh. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card, saving you the complexity of switching cards and the risk of losing it.
Here are your options for getting an eSIM in Phnom Penh:
- Buy directly from network carriers
- Buy from eSIM retailers like Gigago – one of the most reliable eSIM providers in this network market.
For Cambodia, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB/day for 5 days with $4.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Cambodia eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $4.50 – $36.00 .
Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Cambodia, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
VII. Where to Buy a SIM Card Outside Phnom Penh Airport?
Here are some places to buy a SIM card outside Phnom Penh International Airport:
1. Downtown Phnom Penh:
- Mobile phone shops and convenience stores in the city center
- Central Market (Psar Thmei)
- Russian Market (Psar Toul Tom Poung)
2. SIM Card Vendors Near the Airport:
- Shops and stalls along National Road 4, the main road leading from the airport to the city
- Vendors at the taxi and tuk-tuk stand outside the airport terminal
3. Major Hotels
4. Mobile Network Operator Offices
Note: Prices and plan options may vary, so shop around to find the best deal for your needs.
VIII. FAQs about SIM card at Phnom Penh Airport
Can I buy a SIM card with 4G/5G data at Phnom Penh airport?
Yes, the major Cambodian telecom providers offer 4G and even 5G-enabled SIM cards at the airport.
Do I need to show my passport to buy a SIM card at Phnom Penh airport?
Yes, you will need to provide a copy of your passport or ID when purchasing a SIM card at the airport.
How do I activate my SIM card purchased at Phnom Penh airport?
The vendors will typically assist you in activating the SIM card and getting it set up on your device.
Can I get a refund if I don’t use up all the credit on my Phnom Penh airport SIM card?
Refunds are generally not available, so it’s best to purchase a package that matches your expected usage.
IX. Conclusion
SIM cards at Phnom Penh airport are a convenient choice for travelers in Cambodia. Telecom providers offer various SIM card packages with 4G/5G data, voice, and SMS services.
Though prices might be higher than buying in the city, the airport’s convenience makes it a popular option. Remember that a powerful eSIM can make your trip unforgettable!
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