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.
How to buy a SIM Card at Siem Reap Airport 2024: Best Plans + Updated Price
Getting a local SIM card at Siem Reap Airport (REP) can be a convenient option to stay connected during your visit.
Purchasing a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport can be a smart choice for travelers to ensure they have reliable mobile data and voice services throughout their stay in Cambodia. This guide provides up-to-date information on the best SIM card options, prices, and the registration process at Siem Reap Airport in 2024.
I. Should You Buy a SIM Card at Siem Reap Airport (REP)?
Yes, buying a SIM card for Cambodia at Siem Reap Airport can be a convenient option for travelers. But there are more better ways than that. Let’s discover them below:
Method | Pros | Cons |
Buying at the Airport | – Readily available – Convenient location – Can activate immediately | – May be more expensive – Limited choice of providers |
Buying Outside the Airport | – More options – Potentially cheaper prices | – Less convenient – May need to activate later |
Using an eSIM | – No need to physically buy a SIM – Can be set up before a trip | Requires eSIM-compatible device |
Note: Getting a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport is handy for travelers needing swift access to a local SIM upon arrival. Yet, it could cost more than buying one in town or online. Budget-conscious travelers or long-term visitors may consider other alternatives for savings.
II. How and Where to Buy a SIM Card at Siem Reap Airport?
There are 02 common ways to buy a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport:
- buying online and picking up at the airport,
- buying one at the airport upon arrival.
1. Buying online before departure and picking up at the airport
To get your pre-ordered SIM card, find the designated pickup spot in the arrivals hall near baggage claim. The SIM card retailer will have a marked booth or kiosk. Simply show your reservation details to collect your SIM card.
What to prepare: Your passport and reservation details.
Cost: SIM cards range from $1 to $5, depending on the data allowance.
Pros: Convenience, immediate connectivity upon arrival, and ability to research and select the best plan.
Cons: Limited options compared to buying at the airport.
2. Buying at the airport upon arrival
Upon arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, you’ll find kiosks by Cambodia’s top mobile providers – Metfone, Cellcard, and Smart Axiata.
- Metfone: Near baggage claim, they offer prepaid SIM packages starting at $1 for 700MB. Open 24/7 with English-speaking staff. You can see our guide to get more details about buying a Metfone SIM card.
- Cellcard: Get a free SIM with data from $3 for 15GB in the central arrivals hall. Open from 6 AM to 11 PM, English support available.
- Smart Axiata: On the right side, they offer free and paid SIMs, with data starting at $5 for 25GB. Open from 6 AM to 11 PM, English-speaking staff.
What to bring: Passport and cash (USD or local currency). SIMs range from free to $5 based on data.
Pros: Immediate availability, variety, and staff assistance.
Cons: Limited time for plan comparison.
III. How Much Does a SIM Card at Siem Reap Airport Cost?
SIM card costs at Siem Reap Airport in Cambodia change based on the provider you pick and the plan you choose, usually between $5 and $12. Here’s a quick look at a few choices:
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 Siem Reap Airport – Registration Process
Here are the key things to prepare for getting a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport and the registration process:
- Passport
- Passport Photo – Some providers may require a passport-sized photo for the registration process.
- Completed Registration Form – You may need to fill out a registration form with personal details like name, passport number, and address.
- Payment – Have cash (US dollars or Cambodian Riel) ready to pay for the SIM card and data package.
- Choose a Provider – Major cellular providers like Cellcard, Smart, and Metfone have kiosks/shops at the airport.
- Proof of Address – Some providers may ask for a copy of your hotel booking or address while in Cambodia.
The process is generally straightforward, but having the necessary documents and being prepared can make it quicker and easier.
V. Best Tourist Siem Reap Airport SIM Card Options and Price
Here is a detailed overview of the best tourist SIM card options and prices at Siem Reap Airport, Cambodia:
Carrier | Data Package | Price (USD) | Price (KHR) |
Metfone | 4GB, 7 days | ~$3 – $5 | ~12,000 – 20,000 |
8GB, 15 days | ~$5 – $8 | ~20,000 – 32,000 | |
Unlimited, 30 days | ~$8 – $12 | ~32,000 – 48,000 | |
Cellcard | 3GB, 7 days | ~$4 – $6 | ~16,000 – 24,000 |
6GB, 15 days | ~$6 – $9 | ~24,000 – 36,000 | |
Unlimited, 30 days | ~$9 – $13 | ~36,000 – 52,000 | |
Smart | 4GB, 7 days | ~$3.50 – $5.50 | ~14,000 – 22,000 |
8GB, 15 days | ~$5.50 – $8.50 | ~22,000 – 34,000 | |
Unlimited, 30 days | ~$8.50 – $12.50 | ~34,000 – 50,000 |
► Recommendation: The Cellcard Unlimited 30-day package offers the ideal balance of data, duration, and value for tourists at Siem Reap Airport. A top choice for visitors seeking a hassle-free, high-value SIM card for a long trip.
VI. Cambodia eSIM for Siem Reap – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Siem Reap Airport
If your phone supports eSIM, there’s no reason not to try it for your trip to Siem Reap. 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 Siem Reap:
- 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 Siem Reap Airport?
You can buy a SIM card outside of Siem Reap Airport at these recommended places.
- Mobile Provider Stores/Kiosks: Cellcard, Metfone, and Smart
- Convenience Stores: Smile Marts and Lucky Supermarkets
- Local Markets: Psar Chaa (Old Market) and Psar Leu (Upper West Baray Market)
- Shopping Malls: Angkor Trade Center and Cambodian Plazza
- Souvenir Shops/Stalls
- Some Hotels/Guesthouses
Hope you find comfort when buying a SIM card at these places!
VIII. FAQs about buying SIM card at Siem Reap Airport
What types of SIM cards are available for purchase at Siem Reap Airport?
Most providers offer tourist SIM cards with data packages for short stays, as well as regular SIM cards for longer use.
Can I buy a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport with a foreign currency?
Yes, most providers accept US dollars in addition to Cambodian Riel for purchasing SIM cards at the airport.
Is there a limit on the number of SIM cards I can purchase at Siem Reap Airport?
There is usually no limit, but providers may ask about the purpose if purchasing multiple SIM cards.
Can I get a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport with a data-only package?
Yes, most providers offer data-only SIM cards and packages for those who don’t need voice or SMS services.
IX. Conclusion
Getting a SIM card at Siem Reap Airport is a convenient way to stay connected in Cambodia. Different providers offer tourist SIM cards and data packages for easy purchase on arrival. Bring your passport and completed form for a smoother process. Choose a plan that suits your needs and budget. Let’s stay connected in Siem Reap and explore hassle-free!