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This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Claro Chile SIM cards & eSIMs. You’ll learn about Claro’s coverage and speed, the different types of SIM cards available for tourists, and where to buy them.
How to Buy a SIM Card at Santiago Airport (SCL) for Tourists: Where and Price?
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In this article, you’ll discover everything you need about buying a SIM card at Santiago Airport, including where to find one, prices, and the best alternatives.
When you arrive at Santiago Airport, getting a SIM card should be your first step to staying connected. This guide will show you exactly where to buy a SIM card at Santiago Airport, the expected prices, and how to register it. By the end of this article, you’ll know whether it’s best to pick up a SIM at the airport or consider alternative options like an eSIM.
Highlights
- Buy SIM card at Santiago Airport from Entel, Movistar, and WOM.
- Depending on the plan, SIM card prices range from $5 to $29.
- Entel store and WOM kiosks are open 24 hours.
- A passport is required for SIM registration.
In this article
I. How to get a SIM Card at Santiago Airport (SCL)?
To get a SIM card at Santiago Airport, you have several convenient options:
- Order online before and collect at the airport: Pre-order your SIM card online and pick it up when you land, ensuring you’re connected immediately.
- Buy upon arrival: Simply visit one of the SIM card kiosks after you land and get a local SIM on the spot.
- Buy eSIM (if phone compatible with eSIM): Skip the physical card and go digital with an eSIM, which is perfect for quick and easy activation.
II. Where to buy a SIM Card at Santiago Airport?
At Santiago Airport, you can buy SIM cards from major Chilean carriers, such as Entel, Movistar, WOM, and Claro.
1. Entel Store
The Entel store is located on the first floor of Terminal 1, near the immigration and baggage claim area. Plans range from 1GB data-only options to monthly plans with calling, texting, and data. The staff speaks English and can help you choose the right plan.
2. Movistar Kiosk
At Domestic Terminal 1’s departure area, an official Movistar kiosk sells SIM cards with travel data and monthly plans. The staff usually speaks good English. The store is open 24 hours a day, but in a secure spot, so you can’t reach it right when you arrive.
3. Kiosk WOM
WOM has two small self-service kiosks that sell SIM cards. One is for international arrivals on the first floor, and the other is for domestic departures near gate B11, both in Terminal 1. They offer daily and weekly data plans for travelers. You can only pay with cash. The stands are small so that lines can get long during busy times.
► Recommendation: The Entel store is a great choice for new travelers needing connections. WOM kiosks are another option but offer less payment and language support.
III. Do SIM card shops at SCL Airport open after midnight?
YES, after midnight, you can buy a SIM card at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). The Entel store and WOM kiosks, which sell SIM cards, are open 24 hours daily. These shops are conveniently located in the arrivals area, so you can purchase a SIM card immediately after landing, regardless of the time.
IV. Santiago Airport SIM card Price
| Operators | Prepaid Plan | Price (USD) | Data | Local Calls | Messages | Validity | Total Cost (USD) |
| Entel | Tourist SIM | $29 | 5GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days | $29 |
| Entel | Prepaid SIM 1 | $5 | 500MB | 50 mins | 50 | 7 days | $5 |
| Entel | Prepaid SIM 2 | $10 | 1GB | 200 mins | 200 | 14 days | $10 |
| Movistar | Prepaid SIM | $15 | 1.5GB | 100 mins | 100 | 7 days | $15 |
| Movistar | Budget SIM | $5 | 500MB | 20 mins | 20 | 3 days | $5 |
| Movistar | Data SIM | $10 | 3GB | – | – | 7 days | $10 |
| Claro | Prepaid SIM | $10 | 500MB | 20 mins | 20 | 3 days | $10 |
| Claro | Prepaid SIM+ | $20 | 2GB | 60 mins | 60 | 7 days | $20 |
| WOM | Tourist SIM | $25 | 3GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 10 days | $25 |
| WOM | Prepaid SIM | $10 | 1GB | 40 mins | 40 | 7 days | $10 |
These SIM cards can be purchased from the airport’s arrivals area counters. Make sure to have your passport ready for activation, and be aware that plans vary in terms of data, call minutes, and validity periods.
V. Registration Process for Buying a SIM card at Santiago Airport
To buy a SIM card at Santiago Airport, you’ll need to have the following:
- A valid passport (yes, they’ll ask for it!)
- An unlocked phone (make sure it’s compatible with the local network)
- A payment method (cash or card, but be prepared for possible foreign transaction fees)
- Your phone’s IMEI number (don’t worry, it’s usually printed on the phone’s packaging or on the phone itself)
- Proof of address (this might be a hotel reservation or a printed address, but it’s not always required)
Honestly, this process can be complicated, especially if you’re uncomfortable sharing personal info. Many travelers feel uneasy giving their passports and other sensitive details, and it’s understandable.
To avoid it, consider getting an eSIM because it eliminates needing a physical SIM card. Here are the necessary conditions:
- Ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible.
- Choose a compatible eSIM provider.
- Download the provider’s app and follow the setup instructions.
- Have a stable internet connection for activation.
So, if you’re a tourist getting a SIM card at Santiago Airport, consider using an eSIM right away. It will save you time and protect your information!
VI. eSIM at Santiago Airport – Alternative to Chile SIM Cards
You can buy an eSIM online or at Santiago Airport before you arrive in Chile. I recommend buying from retailers/providers because the buying process will be much simpler.
Gigago stands out as your trusted eSIM provider. Here are some great features of Gigago:
- 1,000,000+ people worldwide trust Gigago’s eSIM services
- Instant delivery of eSIM QR codes to your email
- Easy activation process with a simple QR code scan
- Competitive pricing with plans to fit various needs and budgets
- 24/7 support with guidance from engineers via email, hotline, or WhatsApp
Gigago offers a Chile eSIM plan that’s priced at $12.50 , providing great value and flexibility for both light and heavy users. You can choose the plan that suits you best for smooth connectivity in Chile.
Don’t let connection worries spoil your Chile trip. Get your eSIM before you go and focus on making great memories in this beautiful country!
VII. FAQs about SIM card at Santiago Airport
What documents are required to buy a SIM card at Santiago Airport?
You’ll need a valid passport for registration. Some providers might also ask for additional details like your hotel address.
Can I pay with a credit card when purchasing a SIM card at Santiago Airport?
Yes, most SIM card kiosks accept both cash (Chilean pesos) and major credit cards. However, it’s good to have some local currency just in case.
What’s the average cost of a SIM card at Santiago Airport?
SIM cards at Santiago Airport range from $5 to $29, depending on your chosen plan and data package.
Can I buy a SIM card at Santiago Airport if my phone is locked?
No, your phone must be unlocked to use a Chilean SIM card. Make sure to unlock it before you travel.
VIII. Conclusion
In conclusion, buying a SIM card at Santiago Airport (SCL) is convenient for tourists wanting to stay connected upon arrival. However, it can be complicated, requiring a passport, an unlocked phone, and sometimes your hotel address, which many travelers find cumbersome. To avoid this hassle, let’s get an eSIM online before your trip – it’s simpler and doesn’t require personal details at the airport.
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