Buying a SIM card at Vientiane Airport (Wattay) 2024: Travelers Guide

Learn more about buying a SIM card at Vientiane Airport (Wattay – VTE), so you can choose the best mobile package for your trip to Laos.

Buying a Lao SIM card at Wattay Airport is a quick solution when you have not prepared a way to connect to the internet during your trip. Vientiane International Airport, also known as Wattway International Airport (VTE), is located about 3 km west of the city center. To be able to stay connected during your visit, you can purchase a Laos SIM card as soon as you arrive. Let’s review this guide to find your own SIM card at Wattay Airport.

I. How to Get a SIM Card at Vientiane Wattay Airport (VTE)?

 You can buy a SIM card at Wattay airport by three ways, including:

Upon arrival at Wattay Airport, you’ll find SIM card kiosks ready to provide immediate connectivity. This is a convenient option if you prioritize getting online quickly. However, be aware that airport kiosks often offer a limited selection of plans and their prices tend to be higher compared to alternatives.

If you prioritize finding the best deals and want a wider variety of plans to choose from, purchasing a SIM card online before your trip is a savvy move. Numerous providers offer SIM cards specifically designed for travelers visiting Laos. Just remember to factor in potential shipping times for physical SIM cards, as this could affect your arrival-day connectivity.

For the most cost-effective option and the widest range of choices, venturing into Vientiane city center is recommended. Here, you’ll find a plethora of SIM card providers and data packages at competitive prices. However, this option requires a separate trip from the airport, which might not be ideal for travelers on a tight schedule.

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

Buying a SIM card at the counters of Lao network operators is a traditional way and is chosen by many people. However, the queues at these kiosks can be very long, especially during peak tourist season.

You can find Lao network operator counters in the lobby or immigration entrances including: 

Unitel store

• Location: After passing through immigration, there is a Unitel shop located before baggage claim in the arrivals hall. 
• Opening Hours: The shop is open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM to coincide with flight schedules. 
• Plans: With $3.5 you will get 2 GB/day for 7 days or you can purchase $10.21 and get 3 GB/day for 30 days.

Lao Telecom store

• Location: After immigration, you can turn left and walk towards the exit doors. The Lao Telecom shop is located just before exiting the airport terminal building.
• Opening Hours: The shop is open daily from 7 AM to 9 PM to coincide with flight schedules. 
• Plans: With $1.20 you will get 10 GB used for 6 days.

You can keep a few things in mind in case you want to buy a SIM card at the airport upon arrival:

• You should bring your passport or visa because the seller can double-check your information.
• Please prepare some cash for the SIM card payment.
• Make sure your phone is unlocked before your trip.

The difference in price of Lao SIM cards is usually insignificant when you buy online or at the airport. However, buying a SIM card as soon as you arrive at the airport also has pros and cons: 

Pros	Cons
Can easily purchase a SIM card as soon as you arrive.	At risk, you can’t buy a SIM card if your flight lands at night
Get help from store staff to choose a plan and activate your SIM card.	Most airport shops and kiosks don’t accept credit cards

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

No, while Wattay Airport (VTE) operates around the clock, the SIM card kiosks inside the airport generally shut down between 11 PM and midnight. This means that if your flight lands during the late hours, you might find the SIM card shops closed.

To avoid any inconvenience, it’s recommended to explore other options like ordering a SIM card online in advance or using an eSIM if your phone supports it. This way, you can ensure a smooth and connected experience upon arrival in Laos.

IV. How Much Does a SIM Card at Wattay Airport Cost?

The price of a SIM card at Wattay Airport depends on your chosen carrier and package. You can expect to pay from $5 to $10 for a SIM card here. Below are some popular SIM card price packages at Wattay Airport:

Mobile Operator	Price ($)	Data	Validation
Lao Telecom	$5	30 GB	30 days
Unitel	$7	2GB	30 days
TPlus	$10	3GB	30 days

There are various plans for tourists bought at Vientiane (Wattay) Airport: 

1. Lao Telecom

Packages	Data	Validation	Price ($)
Tourist SIM	4,7 GB	6 days	$0.5
Tourist SIM	5 GB	10 days	$1
Tourist SIM	30 GB	30 days	$5

2. Unitel

Packages	Data	Validation	Price ($)
Tourist SIM	3 GB	7 days	$0.5
Tourist SIM	15 GB	15 days	$2
Tourist SIM	35 GB	30 days	$4.75

3. TPlus

Packages	Data	Validation	Price ($)
Tourist SIM	5 GB	7 days	$1.5
Tourist SIM	10 GB	15 days	$2.5
Tourist SIM	30 GB	30 days	$5

The best tourist Vientiane Airport SIM card option for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you need a lot of data, then the Unitel plan is a good option. If you are on a budget, then the Lao Telecom Tourist SIM is a good choice.

The costs for a SIM card at Wattay Airport may change from time to time. You need to check on the official websites of the carriers and compare packages to help choose the most suitable package.

V. What to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Vientiane Wattay Airport – Registration Process

Before heading to the airport, there are a few things you should prepare to ensure a smooth SIM card purchase process:

• Passport or visa: Make sure to bring your passport as it is required for registration purposes when purchasing a SIM card in Laos.
• Cash: Most SIM card vendors at Wattay Airport accept cash payments, so it’s advisable to have some local currency (Laos KIP) or US dollars on hand.
• Unlocked phone: Ensure that your phone is unlocked and compatible with the networks in Laos.

Registration Process:

• Choose a mobile operator: There are three main mobile operators in Laos: Lao Telecom, Unitel, and TPlus. 
• Purchase a SIM card: The staff at the shop can help you choose a plan and purchase a SIM card.
• Provide your documents: You will need to show your passport or visa to the staff.
• Complete the registration form.
• Activate your SIM card: If you don’t know, the staff will help you to activate your SIM card.

VI. Laos eSIM for Vientiane – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Vientiane Wattay Airport

If your trip to Laos is only about 5 to 15 days, you don’t want to bother about installing a new Lao SIM card, using a Lao eSIM would be a great solution.

With eSIM, you will:

• No need to remove your primary SIM.
• Can be purchased online anywhere, at the Wattay Airport, or even in your country before your flight without having to queue.
• No need to register for KYC (personal information).
• Even if you need a Laos phone number, an eSIM works.

For Laos, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 15 GB for 10 days with $6.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Laos eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $6.90 – $12.90 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Laos, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

You can check details at Gigago’s website about network plans for tourists. In short, using eSIM Laos will make your trip more convenient with seamless connection and greater safety.

VII. FAQs

VIII. Conclusion

Buying your SIM card at Wattay Airport is a simple process that will keep you connected throughout your trip to Laos. From reputable operators like Lao Telecom, Unitel, or TPlus, you can find a SIM card that meets your needs. You can also save time and money by purchasing an eSIM before you arrive by purchasing from trusted sources such as laosesim.com. Wishing you a happy and safe trip!