Whether you’re hitting up all the popular hawker centres in Singapore to find the best Hainanese chicken rice, strolling through the luxury stores at Orchard Road, or admiring the world’s tallest indoor waterfall at none other than Gardens by the Bay, having a well connected SIM card will ensure you’ll get to your favourite Singapore destinations without a stress. From booking tickets to Universal Studios online or FaceTiming family back home from the rooftop infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands, a SIM card keeps you connected during your trip and is definitely something you should consider organising. 

International roaming with your existing Australian number is convenient, but it can be expensive. The total cost of choosing to roam quickly adds up, especially if you’re using data for maps, ride-hailing apps, or to book tickets to your favourite attractions. If you’re keen to save your cash, opting for a local SIM or eSIM in Singapore is a lot more cost-effective. A local SIM gives you affordable access to high-speed data, local calls, and better coverage. Plus, with many tourist SIM options available to purchase at the airport and around the city, it’s easy to set up. 

In Singapore, you’ll need to present your passport to purchase a SIM or an eSIM. You can get a SIM card or eSIM at Changi Airport when you land. Tourist plans offer generous data options at reasonable prices. You can expect to pay around AU$15-20 for approximately 100GB. If you want to skip the tray-switching hassle, opt for an eSIM if your phone supports it. Most telco companies in Singapore offer eSIMs, too. So, you can purchase it the same way you would a physical SIM. 

If you forget to pick it up at the airport, most convenience stores around town will also sell tourist SIMs.

You can also be super prepared and order it in advance online. We sell them for as low as AU$3, but have plenty of options to suit your needs. Shop around for the best-value plan for the length of your stay and the amount of data you need.

Buying a SIM card in advance can be a bit more expensive, especially for physical SIMs that need to be shipped to you before you fly to Singapore. Buying a SIM card at the airport is convenient and could be a few dollars cheaper. Both offer similar convenience, but if you’re working with a super tight schedule and can’t afford to be waiting in lines at the airport to get your SIM card, then purchasing in advance is always a wise choice.

There are a few top telco companies in Singapore to choose from. Below are the best ones for tourists:

The main difference between getting a physical SIM and an eSIM in Singapore comes down to convenience and flexibility. 

A physical SIM is often cheaper and can include local call minutes and a local phone number, however, you’ll need to visit a store at the airport or in town to register and activate. 

On the other hand, an eSIM is completely digital. Simply buy online and set up before you travel, and you’re connected instantly. Depending on which eSIM you choose, they may end up being a bit more expensive in comparison to a physical SIM.  However, if instant connectivity is important to you, then getting an eSIM in advance will make your life a lot easier. 

A multi-country eSIM is excellent if you’re hitting a few countries during a short trip. You may consider grabbing a local SIM card or eSIM if you’re only visiting Singapore, or if you’re staying in Singapore for an extended period before your next destination. 

Pros of getting a multi-country or international SIM:

Cons of getting a multi-country or international SIM:

The cost of an eSIM in Singapore can vary depending on your provider and the amount of data you plan to purchase. Typically, eSIMs can be as little as AU$7 or as much as AU$50+. You can get a 4GB GoHub eSIM for Singapore on Traveloka from AU$5.60. Or better yet, if you purchase your flight to Singapore or book a hotel in Singapore via Traveloka, you’ll get a free eSIM with your booking. How good?