For two weeks in Thailand, most travellers need 15 to 25GB of data. Between Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the islands you will lean on Grab, maps, LINE, WhatsApp and a steady stream of photos and videos. A travel eSIM is data-only, keeps your own number, and connects to one of Thailand's main 5G networks (AIS, TrueMove H or dtac) where available.
What actually uses your data
| Activity | Rough data use |
|---|---|
| LINE / WhatsApp messaging | A few MB a day |
| Maps and Grab | 5-10 MB per hour |
| Calls home (audio / video) | 20-30 MB / 200-300 MB per hour |
| Social scrolling (Instagram, TikTok) | 0.5-1 GB per hour |
| Uploading photos and videos | 2-5 MB per photo, more for clips |
| Video streaming (HD) | 1.5-3 GB per hour |
The pattern is clear: maps and Grab are tiny, but photo and video uploads and social scrolling are what add up on a Thailand trip. A fortnight of light use sits around 14 to 15GB; if you post a lot of beach and street-food content, 25GB or an unlimited plan is more relaxing.
On the islands
Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and Koh Phangan are well covered, though speeds vary by island and how remote your beach is. Download offline maps before ferry crossings and for the quieter spots, where coverage thins out.
For digital nomads
If you are working remotely, size up to a large or unlimited plan. Daily video calls and tethering a laptop use data quickly, far more than sightseeing does.
Setup
Install the eSIM over WiFi at home and switch it on when you land at Bangkok (BKK) or your arrival airport, so you are online for that first Grab ride. Hotspot is supported. See network and coverage and our how much data guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is 10GB enough for two weeks in Thailand? For very light use, just about, but most travellers upload enough photos and use enough maps and Grab that 15 to 25GB is more comfortable.
Does the eSIM work on the islands? Yes, Phuket, Koh Samui, Krabi and the main islands are covered on 5G where available, with speeds varying in remote spots.
Which network does it use? One of Thailand's main 5G networks, AIS, TrueMove H or dtac, where available.
Can I use it for remote work? Yes. For daily video calls and tethering, choose a large or unlimited plan.
Browse Thailand eSIM plans and read trust and safety.