While getting a SIM card is considered the standard for most travelers to Thailand to stay connected and in touch with people back home, those travelers with cell phones locked into contracts will not be able to do that if they do not have dual SIM function. This is when having a pocket WiFi can help. In this article, you will learn all about renting a pocket WiFi in Thailand and alternatives to getting Internet throughout the trip. Just check out!
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A pocket WiFi (aka portable WiFi device or mobile hotspot) is a portable, small device providing wireless access to the Internet. It creates a WiFi connection that you can connect your devices to, be it smartphone, laptop or tablet.
The battery life of a pocket WiFi varies depending on the usage and model. Most devices can last for a few hours with just one charge.
With a pocket WiFi for Thailand, you do not need to rely on spotty connectivity at the Thailand airports, hotels or stores anymore.
Depending on the pocket WiFi you rent, you can share data to 5 – 10 devices at a time.
It is possible to use your pocket WiFi within 20 meters. If farther, you may lose connection.
Important note: Some pocket WiFi may only be used in a certain country (like US) or with certain network carriers, so it is best to check before purchase.
Portable hotspots will use data like mobile phones do. The coverage will depend on the network provider and the coverage they offer in that area.
When traveling in Thailand, you can rent a pocket WiFi from many providers like travel service providers or telecommunications companies. This device comes with a local SIM card which allows you to stay connected by using the local mobile network.
You rent the pocket WiFi, turn it on, enter a password, and connect your devices to its network. That’s simple!
Pocket WiFi is great for travelers who need reliable and convenient internet access while traon the go. It is suitable for:
Pocket WiFi is great in the following situations:
Good to know: Higher-end pocket WiFi may also come with an ethernet port, allowing users to hardwire their device and give it the fastest connection.
Staying connected during your trip in Thailand is essential for communication, navigation, and sharing your experiences throughout the trip. While there are a number of connectivity options available, renting a pocket WiFi (aka portal WiFi) allows you to provide data for multiple phones. It is especially useful for those traveling in a group.
A pocket WiFi rental is a great choice if you have a locked phone and cannot use a local SIM card or if your phone is not supported with eSIM.
Here is a comparison of pocket WiFi with other connectivity options, including: pocket WiFi, Thailand roaming, Free WiFi, Thailand SIM cards/eSIMs.
| Connectivity options | Pros | Cons |
| Pocket WiFi | – Reliable and secure internet connection – Portable and convenient to carry – Can be shared with multiple devices – Better if traveling with more than 1-2 people | – Battery life may be limited – May incur additional charges for excessive data usage |
| Roaming | – Convenient if your home network provider has a partnership in Thailand – No need to change SIM cards | – Can be expensive, especially for data usage |
| Free WiFi | – Readily available in many public areas – No upfront cost | – Often unsecured and unreliable |
| Prepaid data SIM Card | – Affordable option for long-term stays – Local SIM provides access to local rates – Better if traveling with 1-2 people, not many devices to connect – Better connectivity | – Requires a compatible unlocked phone – May be inconvenient to purchase and activate |
| Prepaid data eSIM | – Convenient alternative to a physical SIM card – More benefits than a physical SIM | – Convenient digital alternative to a physical SIM card – Convenient digital alternative to a physical SIM card – Limited availability compared to physical SIM cards |
▶ Our recommendation: Here we give some insights about which top 3 preferred connectivity options:
If you have an unlocked and eSIM-compatible smartphone, it is highly recommended to use eSIM for Thailand as an alternative to pocket WiFi. Basically, eSIM has all the functions of a pocket WiFi while saving your time while waiting for the device to be delivered.
With an eSIM you can enjoy local data without the hassle of carrying a physical SIM card.
To buy eSIM, go for Gigago – one of the top eSIM providers in the world with many eSIM plans for different countries and regions in the world.
Why Gigago?
Gigago offers multiple data plan options for Thailand, starting from an 8-day plan with 15GB of data for $8.90 as their most minimal plan. They also have 8-day unlimited data, 10-day 50GB, 15-day unlimited data, and 30-day unlimited data plans ranging from 15GB to unlimited data, with prices from $8.90 up to $34.90.
Not to mention the diversifying plans and competitive prices, Gigago also offer the benefits below:
To have more details on plan features and how to set up eSIM Gigago, visit Gigago eSIM for Thailand.
To get a pocket WiFi, you can choose one of the following ways:
Among three options, the 1st and 2nd are considered the best which gives you the activeness, preparedness for your trip. You will have internet access right upon landing in Thailand.
Note: you cannot walk into a shop and rent a pocket WiFi.
| Option of getting a pocket WiFi | Features |
| Booking online in advance | – do your research and compare products in a leisurely fashion from the comfort of your home- conversion to your home currency is made easy |
| Rent at the airport | – during peak periods supplies can run out if you wait until you arrive at the airport- it’s time-consuming- costs from a physical shop at the airport can be higher compared to buying online |
▶ Our recommendation: if you prefer using pocket WiFi than other methods, it is recommended to buy the device online in advance before arrival.
Typically, a pocket WiFi for Thailand can work as a WiFi hotspot for multiple devices simultaneously. The exact number of devices that can connect may vary depending on the specific pocket WiFi model and service provider. However, the average number of devices being connected at the same time can range from 5 to 10.
The higher the pocket WiFi, the larger the number of devices connected.
Pro Tip: You had better check the pocket WiFi device’s specifications or consult with the service provider to determine the maximum number of devices that can be connected.
Pro Tip: You had better check the pocket WiFi device’s specifications or consult with the service provider to determine the maximum number of devices that can be connected.
The cost of renting a pocket WiFi device in Thailand is typically between 150 and 300 baht per day (from $5 to 10 USD) depending on the device you select. The cheaper the divide, the slower the internet connection, battery life, and the number of devices being able to connect.
Here are some key points about pocket WiFi pricing in Thailand:
The price of a pocket WiFi rental vary depending on the following factors:
Below we introduce some companies that offer pocket WiFi rental for Thailand:
It is easy to set up a pocket WiFi device and use it in Thailand:
Note:
It depends on your usage (number of devices and volume of data used). Assume that your pocket WiFi connects to 3 devices and uses 683 MB, it lasts 16 hours 36 minutes and 57 seconds.
Yes. In Thailand, there are many places allowing you to rent a pocket WiFi device. You an rent a pocket WiFi in many Thailand cities, such as Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, etc. Remember to pay a deposit and to share your passport scan over email to verify and set the device up.
Up to now, there are no pocket WiFi providers offering 5G devices for rental, just 4G devices. It can be changed in the future.
Pocket WiFi is one of common connectivity options tourists often choose while traveling Thailand. This allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet without using your phone’s data. However, renting a pocket WiFi for Thailand may not be the best choice in Thailand. There are cheaper options. Choose a physical data SIM card if your phone is unlocked and you want to have faster data and lower cost. Choose a data eSIM if your phone works with it and you want to get Internet access almost instantly without effort.
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