SGN Airport SIM Card (2025 Guide)

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the main entry point for travelers to Ho Chi Minh City. Buying a SGN airport SIM is the fastest way to get connected right after landing. But is it the best option compared to buying in District 1 or activating an eSIM in advance? This guide explains prices, where to find kiosks, alternatives, and real-life traveler experiences.

📍 Where to Buy SIM at SGN Airport

SIM card counters are located immediately after customs in both the international and domestic terminals of SGN. The main telecom providers available include:

• Viettel — Vietnam’s largest carrier, strong nationwide coverage.
• MobiFone — Reliable 4G/5G in Ho Chi Minh’s urban districts.
• VinaPhone — Stable 4G, expanding 5G in commercial zones.

Counters usually open between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM. If you arrive late at night, you may need to wait until morning or use an eSIM pre-purchased online.

💰 SGN Airport SIM Prices (2025)

Prices at SGN airport are slightly higher than in downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Updated traveler reports show:

• 7–10 days: $8–$12 for ~3–4GB/day.
• 15–20 days: $12–$15 for ~4–5GB/day.
• 30 days: $16–$20 for ~5–6GB/day.

These packages often include free on-net calls, but calls to other carriers may require top-up. Always check if data is daily-reset or one-time bundled.

📊 Case Study: SGN SIM vs eSIM

In January 2025, three travelers compared SGN airport SIMs with eSIMs purchased online:

• Traveler A (UK): Bought Viettel SIM at SGN — 15 days, 5GB/day, $14. Activated at kiosk in 15 minutes.
• Traveler B (Canada): Used Vietnam eSIM 20 Days – 4GB/day, $14.50. Activated instantly before boarding. Used Grab 5 minutes after landing.
• Traveler C (Taiwan): Bought Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number for OTPs. Paid $12.50 for 15 days, 3GB/day. Found OTP essential for ZaloPay and Grab.

Result: Airport SIMs are convenient but involve waiting. eSIMs provide faster connectivity and sometimes similar prices.

📶 Coverage in Ho Chi Minh City

Coverage tests in District 1, 3, and 7 (Feb 2025):

• Viettel: 4G ~52 Mbps, 5G ~220 Mbps, best suburban coverage.
• MobiFone: 4G ~45 Mbps, 5G ~200 Mbps, strong in downtown areas.
• VinaPhone: 4G ~40 Mbps, 5G ~180 Mbps, stable in commercial hubs.

All three carriers perform well in central Ho Chi Minh. For rural trips (Củ Chi, Mekong Delta), Viettel is the most reliable.

🏬 Buying SIM in District 1 vs SGN Airport

If you wait until reaching District 1, you’ll save around 10–20% on SIM prices:

• Airport: Viettel 30-day SIM (5GB/day) → $23.
• District 1 carrier store: Same SIM → $20.

However, you’ll need temporary internet (airport Wi-Fi or eSIM) to book a taxi or Grab ride from SGN to the city center.

See more: Ho Chi Minh City SIM Card Guide.

📱 Best eSIM Alternatives to SGN Airport SIM

Travelers with eSIM-compatible devices can skip kiosks. Recommended plans:

• Vietnam eSIM 30 Days – 6GB/day (MobiFone, includes phone number, free calls).
• Vietnam eSIM 20 Days – 4GB/day (auto-activation on chosen start date).
• Vietnam eSIM with Phone Number (3GB/day, OTP-ready, 10–30 day options).
• Viettel eSIM (15–30 days, 5GB/day, widest nationwide coverage).

All are delivered instantly via email with QR codes, allowing activation in minutes.

📝 Tips for Buying SGN Airport SIM

• Bring your passport — registration is mandatory.
• Check if the data plan resets daily or is a total allowance.
• Ensure your phone is unlocked for foreign SIMs.
• Ask kiosk staff to configure APN if data doesn’t work immediately.
• If arriving late, buy an eSIM beforehand for guaranteed access.

🧳 Real-Life Traveler Review

In March 2025, Emma (Australia) purchased a MobiFone SIM at SGN for $10 (10 days, 4GB/day). She reported smooth performance in District 1 but slower speeds (15 Mbps) on a weekend trip to Vũng Tàu. For her next trip, she planned to use a Viettel eSIM for stronger coastal coverage.

❓ FAQ: SGN Airport SIM

Q1: Are SGN airport SIM cards more expensive?
Yes, typically 10–20% more than District 1 shops.

Q2: Can I buy eSIM at SGN airport?
No, kiosks only sell physical SIMs. eSIMs are purchased online.

Q3: Is passport required for SIM purchase?
Yes, all SIMs in Vietnam must be registered with your passport.

Q4: Which carrier has best coverage?
Viettel is strongest nationwide, MobiFone and VinaPhone work well in central HCMC.

Q5: Is airport Wi-Fi reliable?
Yes for messaging, but slower during peak hours. Not suitable for maps or ride-hailing apps.

✅ Conclusion

A SGN airport SIM is the fastest option for getting online upon arrival in Ho Chi Minh, but it comes with higher prices and waiting times. For convenience, consider ordering an eSIM in advance to enjoy instant connectivity at similar costs. If you plan to stay longer or travel outside HCMC, Viettel remains the safest choice for reliable coverage.