Complete Guide for Travelers 路 Updated 2026
Everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card in Mexico. Compare 2 providers, find prepaid plans starting from $11 USD, and learn exactly where to buy and what documents you need.
Cheapest Plan
$11
Providers
2
Network
Currency
MXN
Any OXXO convenience store or carrier store. Airport counters available at CDMX and Cancun.
Compare all 2 carriers offering prepaid SIM cards to tourists in Mexico. Side-by-side comparison of coverage, speed, and pricing.
| Carrier | Type | Coverage | Speed | Cheapest Plan | Plans | Buy At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Telcel Best Coverage | Major | Excellent | Excellent | $11USD 6 GB / 30 days | 2plans | AirportConvenience StoreCarrier Store |
AT&T Mexico | Major | Good | Good | $11USD 5 GB / 30 days | 2plans | Carrier StoreConvenience Store |
Coverage and speed ratings per carrier
From
$11
6 GB / 30 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amigo Sin Limite 6GB | 6 GB | 200 MXN | $11 | 30 days | Unlimited Mexico |
| Amigo Sin Limite 10GB | 10 GB | 300 MXN | $17 | 30 days | Unlimited Mexico |
From
$11
5 GB / 30 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid 5GB | 5 GB | 200 MXN | $11 | 30 days | Unlimited Mexico + US/Canada |
| Prepaid 8GB | 8 GB | 300 MXN | $17 | 30 days | Unlimited Mexico + US/Canada |
Select providers to compare their plans directly
Select up to 3 providers to compare. 2/3 selected.
Telcel
Amigo Sin Limite 6GB
200 MXN MXN
AT&T Mexico
Prepaid 5GB
200 MXN MXN
Telcel
Amigo Sin Limite 10GB
300 MXN MXN
AT&T Mexico
Prepaid 8GB
300 MXN MXN
Visual comparison of carrier pricing in Mexico
Cheapest to most expensive plan (USD)
Cheapest available
$11
Find the best place to buy a prepaid SIM card in Mexico, with details on hours, ease of purchase, and what to expect at each location type.
This is the easiest option for tourists arriving in Mexico.
Carrier counters and kiosks in the arrivals hall. Staff speak English and handle registration on the spot.
Available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and similar stores. Look near the checkout counter.
Official brand stores with the widest plan selection. Staff can help with activation and troubleshooting.
Order online before your trip and pick up at the airport, or have it delivered to your hotel.
Mexico does not require identification for prepaid SIM purchases, making it one of the easiest countries to get connected.
Mexico uses 4G LTE / 5G networks. Here is how each provider compares for coverage and speed across the country.
Coverage Map for Mexico
Visit each carrier's website for their interactive coverage map
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Strong
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
Mexico has minimal registration requirements. Follow these steps for a quick and smooth activation.
Prepare these before buying a SIM in Mexico
Unlocked phoneRequired
Your phone must be SIM-unlocked to use a local SIM card
PassportOptional
Valid passport for SIM registration
SIM ejector toolRequired
Or use a paperclip to open the SIM tray
Cash in local currencyRequired
Some vendors do not accept credit cards
Photo ID (backup)Optional
A second form of ID in case your passport is needed elsewhere
major carrier
Step 1
None (no ID required)
major carrier
Step 1
None
Get a printable PDF with provider comparisons, activation steps, and APN settings for Mexico.