Complete Guide for Travelers 路 Updated 2026
Everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card in Philippines. Compare 2 providers, find prepaid plans starting from $5 USD, and learn exactly where to buy and what documents you need.
Cheapest Plan
$5
Providers
2
Network
Currency
PHP
NAIA Terminal arrivals or any 7-Eleven/Ministop convenience store
Compare all 2 carriers offering prepaid SIM cards to tourists in Philippines. Side-by-side comparison of coverage, speed, and pricing.
| Carrier | Type | Coverage | Speed | Cheapest Plan | Plans | Buy At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Globe Best Coverage | Major | Good | Good | $5USD 8 GB / 7 days | 2plans | AirportConvenience StoreCarrier Store |
Smart (PLDT) | Major | Good | Good | $5USD 8 GB / 7 days | 2plans | AirportConvenience StoreCarrier Store |
Coverage and speed ratings per carrier
From
$5
8 GB / 7 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GoSURF 8GB | 8 GB | 299 PHP | $5 | 7 days | Unlimited Globe-to-Globe |
| GoSURF 15GB | 15 GB | 599 PHP | $11 | 30 days | Unlimited Globe-to-Globe |
From
$5
8 GB / 7 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GigaSURF 8GB | 8 GB | 299 PHP | $5 | 7 days | Unlimited Smart-to-Smart |
| GigaSURF 20GB | 20 GB | 599 PHP | $11 | 30 days | Unlimited Smart-to-Smart |
Select providers to compare their plans directly
Select up to 3 providers to compare. 2/3 selected.
Globe
GoSURF 8GB
299 PHP PHP
Smart (PLDT)
GigaSURF 8GB
299 PHP PHP
Globe
GoSURF 15GB
599 PHP PHP
Smart (PLDT)
GigaSURF 20GB
599 PHP PHP
Visual comparison of carrier pricing in Philippines
Cheapest to most expensive plan (USD)
Cheapest available
$5
Find the best place to buy a prepaid SIM card in Philippines, with details on hours, ease of purchase, and what to expect at each location type.
This is the easiest option for tourists arriving in Philippines.
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.
Philippines does not require identification for prepaid SIM purchases, making it one of the easiest countries to get connected.
Philippines uses 4G LTE networks. Here is how each provider compares for coverage and speed across the country.
Coverage Map for Philippines
Visit each carrier's website for their interactive coverage map
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
Philippines requires SIM card registration. Here is exactly what you need and step-by-step instructions for each provider.
Prepare these before buying a SIM in Philippines
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
Local addressRequired
Hotel address for SIM registration form
major carrier
Step 1
SIM registration via app (name, address, ID photo)
major carrier
Step 1
SIM registration via app or website (name, address, ID)
Get a printable PDF with provider comparisons, activation steps, and APN settings for Philippines.