Best Saint Martin SIM cards for Travelers
This guide to find out where and how to buy Saint Martin SIM cards, along with information on rates and the best data packages.
Are you heading to Saint Martin soon and want to stay connected? Buying a SIM card is the best way to get internet access for maps, social media, and staying in touch with loved ones.
In this article
I. What are the Best Saint Martin SIM cards for Tourists?
1 USD = 0.92 EUR
There are two main mobile operators: Flow and Digicel
1. Flow
Forfaits 3-en-1 (3-in-1 Packages) – Flow
Price | Plan | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
2.70 EUR | combo 1 jour | 1.5 GB | 1000 minutes | 100 SMS | 1 day |
6.30 EUR | combo 3 jours | 2.5 GB | 1000 minutes | 200 SMS | 3 days |
12.60 EUR | combo 7 jours | 7.5 GB | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | Unlimited | 7 days |
48.50 EUR | combo 30 jours | 10 GB | “Unlimited”, 3000 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days |
Forfaits Data-Only – Flow
Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
2.50 EUR | Data Bundle 1 Day | 2 GB | 1 day |
6 EUR | Data Bundle 3 Days | 3 GB | 3 days |
12 EUR | Data Bundle 7 Days | 4 GB | 7 days |
18 EUR | Data Bundle 30 Days Small | 2 GB | 30 days |
24 EUR | Data Bundle 30 Day Large | 8 GB | 30 days |
Offres Additionnelles Donnees Mobiles Prepaye
Price | Data | Validity |
5.40 USD | 1 GB | Until plan expires |
2. Digicel
Offres Carte/Recharge Premium (Card Offers) – Digicel Saint Martin
Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
2 EUR | 500 MB | 30 minutes | Unlimited | 1 day |
5 EUR | 1 GB | 60 minutes | Unlimited | 5 days |
10 EUR | 3 GB | 120 minutes | Unlimited | 10 days |
25 EUR | 10 GB | 180 minutes | Unlimited | 30 days |
Pass Extra Data – Digicel Saint Martin
Price | Data | Validity |
5 EUR | 2 GB | Until plan expires |
III. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Saint Martin for Tourists?
Buying a SIM card in Saint Martin is easy and can make your trip more convenient:
- Before Your Trip
- Upon Arrival in Saint Martin
1. Before Your Trip
- Buy an eSIM Online : You can purchase an eSIM online before your flight to Saint Martin. It only takes a few minutes to activate, and you can use it right away.
- International SIM Cards : Some carriers offer prepaid SIM cards. You can buy these online or at electronics stores in your home country.
2. Upon Arrival in Saint Martin
- Phone Shops : Many phone shops in Saint Martin offer SIM cards from different carriers. Compare prices to find the best deal for you.
- Mobile Company Stores : Look for official stores of major carriers like Digicel or Flow in big cities or tourist areas.
Additional Tips:
- Check Activation Requirements : Some SIM card providers may require you to show your passport for registration. Bring it with you when buying a new SIM.
- Learn Recharge Options : Familiarize yourself with how to top up your SIM for more data or calling minutes during your trip.
- Choose the Right Package : Select a package that fits your personal needs and the length of your stay.
IV. How Much is a Tourist Saint Martin SIM Card?
In Saint Martin, the prices for tourist SIM cards from various operators are as follows:
- Digicel : 12 EUR
- Flow/Chippie : 10 EUR
These prices reflect typical costs for SIM cards in the Caribbean. Note that SIM cards are not available at the airport, so you’ll need to purchase them at official stores.
V. What types of Saint Martin SIM cards are available for tourists?
Saint Martin SIM cards can be categorized in two ways:
By Form:
- Physical SIM : A small card you can insert or remove from your phone.
- eSIM : A digital SIM built into your phone that you cannot physically remove.
By Function:
- Data-only SIM : For internet use only. You can browse the web and use apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, but you can’t make calls or send texts.
- Voice + Data SIM : This includes a phone number, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use the internet.
► Our Recommendation: If you have a phone that supports eSIM and just need the internet for browsing or communication apps, go for a prepaid eSIM with a data-only plan. If you prefer traditional communication methods like calls and texts, choose a prepaid physical SIM card for the best rates.
V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Saint Martin travel?
Yes, prepaid SIM cards in Saint Martin are the easiest and most affordable way to stay connected. They offer fast data connections.
Here’s a quick comparison to show why Saint Martin SIM cards are a great choice for internet access:
Criteria | SIM Card | Pocket WiFi | International Roaming |
Availability | Good coverage with various plans | Battery life may be a concern | Coverage depends on your home carrier |
Convenience | Easy to buy and activate online; ready to use right away | Connect multiple devices | Use your existing number; may incur roaming charges |
Price | Affordable | Daily rental fees | High fees for calls, texts, and data |
Device | Works with any unlocked phone | Requires an extra rental device | Use your own phone |
Privacy | Private connection | Device tracks your data | Provider monitors your usage |
Important Note: Make sure your phone is unlocked to use a Saint Martin SIM card. If it's locked, contact your carrier for assistance. If you only need data and won't be making calls or sending texts, consider a data-only SIM to save money.
VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Saint Martin?
To buy a prepaid SIM card in Saint Martin, make sure you have the following:
- Passport : You need this for identification and to register with the mobile provider.
- Payment Method : It’s good to have both cash and a card, as most places accept both.
- Unlocked Phone : Ensure your phone is unlocked and works with Saint Martin networks so you can use the SIM card without problems.
VII. Saint Martin eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards
An eSIM is a great option for travelers with compatible devices. Here are some reasons to consider getting a Saint Martin eSIM for your trip:
- Easy Setup : You don’t have to wait for a SIM card to arrive. Just scan the QR code you receive by email, and you’re connected right away.
- Reliable Connections : The eSIM works on Saint Martin’s fast LTE networks, like Digicel. I streamed videos and used maps without any issues.
- Save Money : With an eSIM, you won’t face extra roaming fees.
- Flexible Data Options : You can choose a plan with the right amount of data for your needs, and add more later if necessary.
- Good Coverage : I had a connection while exploring cities and popular tourist spots across Saint Martin.
- Keep Your Regular SIM : The eSIM allows you to receive calls and texts on your regular number too.
For Saint Martin, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $10.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Saint Martin eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $10.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Saint Martin, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Saint Martin?
The duration of a tourist SIM card in Saint Martin depends on the plan you choose, most options range from 7 to 30 days.
It’s a good idea to check with providers like Digicel or Flow to find a plan that fits your travel needs. You can usually find this information on their websites or by visiting their stores when you arrive in Saint Martin.
IX. How to activate a SIM card in Saint Martin?
Here’s how to activate with Saint Martin SIM cards and eSIMs:
1. Using Prepaid Saint Martin SIM Cards
- Purchase a prepaid SIM card.
- Follow these steps :
- Turn off your phone, insert the SIM card, and turn it back on.
- Follow the setup instructions on your screen.
- If needed, enter the mobile network settings to connect to the internet.
- Call the number provided with your SIM card to check your account balance and plan details.
2. Setting Up and Activating a Saint Martin eSIM
- Ensure your phone supports eSIM and is not locked.
- Follow these steps :
- Sign up for an eSIM plan on the provider’s website.
- You’ll receive a QR code via email. Go to your phone’s eSIM settings and scan the QR code.
- Follow the prompts to activate your eSIM.
- Restart your phone, and your eSIM will be ready for internet access in Saint Martin
X. FAQs
What is the average cost of mobile data?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Saint Martin is around 4.17 USD, which is competitive compared to other Caribbean nations.
Is there 5G coverage in Saint Martin?
As of now, there is no 5G NR available in Saint Martin.
Can I use my SIM card on nearby islands?
Yes, with some operators, you can use your Saint-Martinoise SIM card on other French Caribbean islands without extra charges, subject to specific regulations.
In summary, whether you’re visiting Saint Martin for a few days or traveling for weeks, getting a SIM card is essential for staying connected. Major careers offer affordable plans at the airport or online, making it easy to navigate and share your experiences with friends and family. An eSIM is also a great option to enhance your trip in this beautiful country.