As a popular tourist destination, Singapore offers several options for tourists to stay connected while exploring the city. One of the best and most convenient ways to stay connected is through a tourist SIM card. A tourist SIM card provides you with data, voice calls, and SMS services at an affordable rate. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using a tourist SIM card in Singapore, the top tourist SIM cards available, how to choose the best one, and much more.
Benefits of using a tourist SIM card in Singapore
Using a tourist SIM card in Singapore has several advantages over other options such as roaming or purchasing a local SIM card. Some of the benefits include:
- Cost-effective: A tourist SIM card provides you with data, voice calls, and SMS services at a reasonable price. You can save a lot of money compared to roaming charges or purchasing a local SIM card.
- Convenient: With a tourist SIM card, you can stay connected to the internet and make local and international calls without any hassle. It is easy to activate and use, making it the most convenient option for tourists.
- Customizable plans: Many service providers offer customizable plans that cater to different needs, budgets, and durations of stay.
- Easy access to emergency services: With a tourist SIM card, you can easily connect to emergency services such as the police, ambulance, and fire department.
- No contracts: Tourist SIM cards do not require a contract, which means you are not tied down to any commitment or hidden fees.
Top tourist SIM cards available in Singapore
Singapore has several service providers offering tourist SIM cards. Some of the top-rated ones include:
- Singtel: Singtel offers their “hi!Tourist EZ-Link SIM Card” that comes with unlimited local data, 100 minutes of international calls, and 500MB of roaming data. The SIM card also includes an EZ-Link card that can be used for public transportation.
- Starhub: Starhub offers their “Tourist SIM” that comes with 100GB of local data, unlimited local calls and SMS, and a $5 bonus credit for international calls.
- M1: M1 offers their “Tourist SIM Card” that comes with 100GB of local data, unlimited local calls and SMS, and 1GB of roaming data.
How to choose the best tourist SIM card for your needs
Choosing the right tourist SIM card for your needs depends on several factors such as budget, duration of stay, data usage, and preferred network coverage. Here are some factors to consider:
- Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on a tourist SIM card and select a plan that fits your budget.
- Duration of stay: Consider the duration of your stay in Singapore when selecting a plan. Most providers offer plans ranging from 5 days to 30 days.
- Data usage: If you plan to use a lot of data, choose a plan with high data allowances.
- Network coverage: Check the network coverage of the service provider in areas where you will be staying or visiting.
Comparison between physical SIM and eSIM for tourists in Singapore
A physical SIM card is a traditional SIM card that you insert into your phone’s SIM card slot, while an eSIM (embedded-SIM) is a digital SIM that is embedded in your phone’s hardware. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Physical SIM card
Pros:
- Widely available: Physical SIM cards are easily available in most countries, including Singapore.
- Easy to use: Using a physical SIM card is straightforward and does not require any additional setup.
Cons:
- Limited options: With a physical SIM card, you are limited to the service provider’s offerings.
- Inconvenient: You need to physically insert and remove the SIM card from your phone when switching between service providers.
eSIM
Pros:
- Convenient: With an eSIM, you can activate a plan directly from your phone without needing a physical SIM card.
- Multiple plans: You can store multiple eSIMs on your phone, allowing you to switch between service providers easily.
Cons:
- Limited availability: Not all phones support eSIM, and not all service providers offer eSIM plans.
- Setup: Setting up an eSIM requires additional steps compared to using a physical SIM card.
How to activate a tourist SIM card in Singapore
Activating a tourist SIM card is a simple process that can be completed within minutes. Here are the general steps:
- Purchase a tourist SIM card from a service provider or authorized retailer.
- Insert the SIM card into your phone’s SIM card slot.
- Turn on your phone and follow the activation instructions provided by the service provider.
- Once activated, you can start using your SIM card.
Best places to buy a tourist SIM card in SingaporeThere are several places where you can buy a tourist SIM card in Singapore. Some of the best options include:
- Changi Airport: Upon arriving at Changi Airport, you can purchase a tourist SIM card from various service providers such as Singtel, Starhub, and M1.
- Local convenience stores: Popular stores such as 7-Eleven, Cheers, and FairPrice Xpress also sell tourist SIM cards.
- Service provider stores: You can also visit a service provider store such as Singtel, Starhub, or M1 to purchase a SIM card.
How much does a tourist SIM card cost in Singapore?
The cost of a tourist SIM card in Singapore varies depending on the service provider and plan selected. Generally, prices range from SGD $8 to SGD $38. Here is an overview of the costs for some popular tourist SIM cards:
- Singtel hi!Tourist EZ-Link SIM Card: SGD $15
- Starhub Tourist SIM: SGD $15
- M1 Tourist SIM Card: SGD $18
- Singesim.com eSIM from SGD$3.9
Tips for using a tourist SIM card in Singapore
Here are some tips to help you make the most out of your tourist SIM card in Singapore:
- Check the network coverage before purchasing a SIM card: Make sure that the service provider has good network coverage in areas where you will be staying or visiting.
- Monitor your data usage: Some plans may have data caps or speed throttling after a certain limit. Keep track of your usage to avoid any additional charges.
- Turn off data-roaming: To avoid any extra charges, turn off data-roaming when traveling outside of Singapore.
- Top-up your balance before it runs out: To avoid any service disruptions, top-up your balance before it runs out.
Overview of singesim.com and its offerings
Singesim.com is a digital service provider that offers eSIM solutions for travelers to Singapore. Singesim.com provides a seamless and hassle-free process of purchasing and activating an eSIM plan. Here are some of their offerings:
- Affordable plans: Singesim.com offers affordable plans, including unlimited data plans.
- Flexibility: With singesim.com, you can customize your plan based on your needs and duration of stay.
- Easy activation: Activating an eSIM plan from Singesim.com is straightforward and can be done within minutes.
How to purchase and activate an eSIM from singesim.com
To purchase and activate an eSIM plan from Singesim.com, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the singesim.com website and select the plan that suits your needs.
- Provide your device information and personal details.
- Proceed to checkout and make the payment.
- You will receive an email with instructions on how to download and activate your eSIM plan.
- Follow the instructions provided in the email to activate your plan.
Conclusion
Using a tourist SIM card or eSIM is an excellent way to stay connected while traveling to Singapore. It is cost-effective, convenient, and customizable. When choosing a plan, consider factors such as budget, duration of stay, data usage, and network coverage. Singtel, Starhub, and M1 offer popular physical SIM card options, while singesim.com is an excellent choice for eSIM solutions. Whether you prefer a physical or digital option, staying connected has never been easier.
