Thailand apps & mobile internet

Useful apps

Grab

Rides, food and grocery delivery in many Thai cities. Not a regular transport option on Koh Chang.

Bolt

Another ride app for many parts of Thailand. No regular Bolt service is currently available on Koh Chang.

Google Maps

Navigation, distances, saved places and offline maps for Bangkok, Trat and Koh Chang.

Google Translate

Camera translation for signs and menus. Download English and Thai for offline use.

LINE

A widely used communication app for local businesses, drivers and service providers.

Thailand Tourist Police

Official multilingual help and reporting. Tourist Police can also be reached nationwide on 1155.

SIM or eSIM

Tourist SIM and eSIM plans are offered by AIS and True/dtac. Check duration, data allowance, speed, local number and whether your phone supports eSIM and dual SIM. Passport registration is required for Thai SIMs.

What is the difference?

• A physical SIM card is inserted into the phone.
• An eSIM is installed digitally; the phone must support eSIM and must not be carrier-locked.
• An international data eSIM does not always include a Thai phone number. Data alone may be sufficient, but a local number can be useful for callbacks.

What should you check?

• Does your phone support eSIM and dual SIM?
• How many travel days does the plan cover?
• Is a Thai phone number included?
• Are local calls and SMS included, or data only?
• Is there a data limit or speed restriction?
• Could your home plan incur high roaming charges?

AIS Tourist SIM/eSIM True/dtac Tourist SIM/eSIM

Before departure

• Download offline maps for Bangkok, Trat and Koh Chang
• Download Thai and English for offline translation
• Disable expensive data roaming on your home SIM
• Save emergency numbers and the accommodation address
• Install Grab and, if useful, Bolt and set up the accounts.
• Decide whether you need a Thai SIM or eSIM.