By the WahLiao desk · Last verified 28 September 2026
The cheapest way to stay online in Singapore is a local tourist SIM or eSIM. Singtel, StarHub and M1 all sell plans from S$12 for 100GB of data, valid for about ten to fifteen days, at Changi Airport’s arrival halls and online before you fly. Bring your passport; you need it to register a SIM.
For a short trip, 100GB is more than you will use; the plan’s length matters more than its size. Choose by how many days you are staying, whether you need calls, and whether your phone takes an eSIM.
Tourist SIMs and eSIMs compared
| Provider | Entry plan | Longer plan | eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singtel | S$12: 100GB local data, 3GB roaming, 14 days | S$30: 100GB 5G, 5GB roaming, 28 days | Yes |
| StarHub | S$12: 100GB local data, about 10 days | S$32: 100GB, 3GB roaming, 30 days | Yes, from S$12 |
| M1 | S$12: 100GB local data, 15 days | S$30: larger data allowance, 30 days | Yes, from S$12 |
Plans change often, and the operators run promotions. Check the latest offer on the day you buy.
The WahLiao Verdict
| Cost | About S$12 for a week or two online. |
| What you get | Fast local data for maps, ride-hailing, payments and messages. |
| The alternative | Your home roaming plan, which is simpler and usually far more expensive. |
| Worth it for | Anyone staying more than a day. |
| Skip it if | You are on a short layover; the airport’s free Wi-Fi is enough. |
SIM or eSIM?
An eSIM installs from a QR code, so you can set it up before you land and keep your home SIM in the phone for calls and bank messages. Choose one if your phone supports it. A physical SIM suits older phones, and some physical plans include more local calls and texts.
Where to buy
At Changi, telco counters and convenience stores in the arrival halls of all four terminals sell tourist SIMs. You can also buy online before you fly and collect on arrival, or pick one up at convenience stores and phone shops around the city. Bring your passport: every SIM must be registered to the buyer.
Free Wi-Fi
Changi Airport has free Wi-Fi throughout, and most hotels, malls, cafés and many public buildings offer it too. It works for a layover or a light trip, but not for navigating the city on foot. For Grab, maps and payments on the move, local data is worth S$12.
Singapore SIM cards: FAQ
What is the best tourist SIM in Singapore?
All three operators sell similar plans from S$12 for 100GB. Pick by how long you are staying and whether you need an eSIM or local calls.
Can I buy a SIM card at Changi Airport?
Yes. Tourist SIMs and eSIMs are sold in the arrival halls of all four terminals. Bring your passport.
Do I need a passport to buy a SIM in Singapore?
Yes. SIM cards must be registered to the buyer, and visitors register with their passport.
Is there free Wi-Fi in Singapore?
Yes, at Changi Airport and in most hotels, malls and cafés. It is not reliable enough on its own for getting around the city.
Read next
This page belongs to Visiting Singapore, our guide for first-time visitors. Once you are online, Changi Airport to the City gets you to your hotel, and Getting Around Singapore covers the apps worth installing.
Sources checked 28 September 2026: Changi Airport, buying a SIM card; StarHub, tourist SIM guide; WhistleOut on Singapore tourist SIMs and eSIMs. Plans change often; check on the day. Last updated 28 September 2026.
