How to Buy a SIM Card at Sangster Airport (MBJ) for Tourists: Where and Price

This post explains how to buy a SIM card at Sangster Airpor (MBJ) for tourists, including where to buy, what to bring, and which plans are best.

Guide to buy a SIM card at MBJ airport

If you know where to go and what to pack, getting a SIM card at Sangster Airport is easy. This guide will help you understand the process, costs, and options available. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to stay connected during your trip.

Highlights

  • Buy a SIM card at MBJ airport from the Stay Connected store , or order one online before your trip.

  • Prices at the airport are usually higher than elsewhere in Jamaica.

  • eSIMs are NOT available from Flow and Digicel.

  • Consider getting a SIM card or eSIM from a retailer to avoid the registration process.

I. How to Get a SIM Card at Sangster Airport (MBJ)?

Here are three ways to get a SIM card at Sangster Airport:

  • Order Online and Pick Up at the Airport: Buy your SIM card in advance through our website and collect it when you arrive. This way, you can skip the lines and start using your phone right away.
  • Buy Upon Arrival: Visit one of the telecom shops or kiosks at the airport to get a SIM card immediately. The staff will help you set it up and answer any questions.
  • Buy eSIM (if your phone supports it): If your phone is compatible with eSIM, you can purchase and activate a digital SIM card online before your trip or at the airport.

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Sangster Airport?

Sangster Airport Map
Sangster Airport Map

At Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, there is a local phone shop called ‘Stay Connected.’ Here, you can buy a Digicel SIM card for Jamaica, but be aware that they charge higher prices—often three times the regular cost. While it’s not the cheapest option, it is a quick way to get connected as soon as you arrive in Jamaica.

  • Opening Hours : Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. 
  • Payment : Cash only; credit cards are not accepted.

III. Do SIM card shops at MBJ airport open after midnight?

Stay Connected stores at Sangster Airport
Stay Connected stores at Sangster Airport

No, the SIM card stores at MBJ Airport have specific hours and may not be open after midnight. It often opens daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

If you arrive late, you might not be able to get a SIM card. Keep in mind that these hours can change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information before your arrival at the airport.

IV. Sangster Airport SIM card Price

Note: $1 USD = $156.5 JMD

Digicel SIM Card
Digicel SIM Card

At the ‘Stay Connected’ phone store at Sangster International Airport, you can buy the following Digicel prepaid SIM card plans:

  • 6 GB data + 300 minutes + 10 GB for social media for 3 days : $15 USD.
  • 14 GB data + 700 minutes + 25 GB for social media for 7 days : $23 USD.
  • 20 GB data + 2,500 minutes + 50 GB for social media for 28 days : $45 USD.

V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at Sangster Airport

Informtion desk - a place to buy SIM Card at Jamaica Airports
Informtion desk – a place to buy SIM Card at Jamaica Airports

To make buying a SIM card at Sangster Airport easier, tourists should prepare the following:

  • Valid Passport : Bring a valid passport to purchase a SIM card.
  • Unlocked Phone : Ensure your phone is unlocked.
  • Cash or Credit Card : Have enough cash or a credit card to buy the SIM card.
  • Research Mobile Providers : Look up the mobile network providers in Jamaica before your trip.

By preparing these items, you’ll be ready to get a SIM card at the airport and enjoy mobile connectivity during your visit.

VI. eSIM at Sangster Airport – Alternative to Sangster Airport SIM Card

Instead of physical SIM cards, tourists can also get eSIMs when they arrive in Jamaica. eSIMs are digital SIMs that can be downloaded instantly onto compatible smartphones. Here are some advantages:

  • No Waiting in Lines : With eSIMs, you can skip the queues in the arrival hall, saving time after a long flight.
  • FPre-order and Activate Anytime : eSIMs can be purchased online before you leave home and activated when you arrive.
  • Better Rates and Flexible Recharges : Prepaid mobile recharge packs bought online before your trip often have cheaper data rates compared to airport prices.
  • Available from Local Providers : eSIM service in Jamaica works on the networks of providers like Digicel and Flow.
Jamaica eSIM from Gigago
Jamaica eSIM from Gigago

You can find affordable eSIM data plans from retailers like Gigago. For Jamaica, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $10.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Jamaica 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 Jamaica, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VII. FAQs

Can I pay with a credit card?

No, the store only accepts cash for SIM card purchases.

Are there eSIM options available at the Airport?

No, but eSIMs can be purchased online before your trip from retailers like Gigago, allowing for quick activation upon arrival.

Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport?

Yes, Sangster International Airport offers free Wi-Fi, but having a local SIM card is more reliable for internet access.

How do I check my balance?

Most providers have a simple code you can dial to check your balance or you can use their mobile app. With Digicel, dial *130#. 

Is there 5G in Jamaica?

Unfortunately as per August 2024 there is still no 5G in Jamaica. The best you can get is 4G/LTE.

Buying a SIM card at the airport is a convenient way for tourists to get connected as soon as they arrive in Jamaica. By knowing the available options, locations, and price ranges, travelers can make smart choices to meet their needs. Remember to compare plans and prices to find the best deal for your travel plans and data usage.