5 Reasons You Need to Buy a Mexico SIM Card Before Your Trip
wondering if you need a Mexico SIM Card?
As someone who’s been living in Mexico since 2018, my opinion is YES, you absolutly do need a Mexico SIM Card. While you can get away with jumping on free public WiFi in some countries, Mexico simply isn’t there (yet).
I have been all over Mexico, to more than half the states and nearly all the big travel destinations, and free public WiFi has never worked for me anywhere — not even in big cities like Mexico City and Cancun.
Because of this, you’ll need a prepaid Mexico SIM card with enough data to cover your whole trip if you want to stay connected at all times.
- 3GB Cellular Data (at full 4G/LTE speeds) valid for 30 days starting at your arrival in Mexico
- Unlimited Calls and SMS (only text) in Mexico, USA or Canada
- Can also be used in USA and Canada for Data, Calls and SMS
- Unlimited Social Networks (Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat)
- LTE capable (LTE Coverage is available in most cities and touristic areas)
In short, Mexico is a wonderful country, but its technology infrastructure isn’t as sophisticated as some countries. For this reason, a SIM card with data is the only way to ensure you’re connected at all times.
Ready to discover all your options for buying a Mexico SIM Card online?
Let’s dive in to discover more about the best Mexico SIM card company to use — which in my opinion is this Telcel Prepaid Mexico SIM card.
Best MEXICO sim cards
What is a SIM Card?
Before we continue, let’s take one second to clear up what this SIM card thing actually is! SIM stands for Subscriber Identity Module.
A SIM is basically a tiny chip on a plastic card that goes into your phone, and essentially “connects” your phone to your phone number. Now that we’ve addressed the biggest of all SIM card FAQs, let’s continue!
Best MEXICO sim cards
Telcel: The Best SIM Card for Mexico
Want the best SIM card Mexico has? Of course you do!
For this reason, I always recommend my readers buy this Telcel Mexico SIM card and opt for Telcel Mexico data plans.
Wondering, What is Telcel? This is Mexico’s largest cell phone service provider, so a Telcel SIM Card in Mexico will give you the most coverage throughout the country.
🤔 What other Mexico SIM Card Companies are there?
You can also get an AT&T Mexico SIM card or use the company Movistar.
Word of warning: Movistar is about as liked by customers as Spirit Airlines! They are the least expensive, and also known to have the most dropped calls and weakest signal — so you get what you pay for.
📲 SIM Card Sizes
Depending on your cell phone, you’ll need one of these three sizes: Chip, Microchip, or Nanochip.
Luckily, the Telcel options featured for purchase in this article work for all sizes — as you can see above.
If you’re buying another Mexican SIM card, you’ll want to google your phone’s specs to find out what size SIM card you need to get.
Best MEXICO sim cards
How much does a SIM card cost in Mexico?
SIM cards in Mexico vary in price, but shouldn’t be more than $10 USD. Now, this is just for the card without data, which you can also buy here from Amazon.
With this empty card, you will have to then fill it with data so that the card has use — as without data added to it, your Mexico data SIM card has no function.
How much data you want to buy, where you buy the data (airports often charge more, for example) and how much each Mexico phone company charges — will all vary.
As a general ballpark figure, since I only recommend using Telcel, you can expect to pay about $15 USD for 4gb.
This $15, plus the $5-10 cost of the card itself, means it’s only about $15 less than buying one online right now.
Doing this means you already have the card in hand, and won’t waste any of your precious Mexico travel time getting a SIM card and setting it up.
Best MEXICO sim cards
Why You Should Buy Your Telcel Mexico SIM Card Online Now
- 3GB Cellular Data (at full 4G/LTE speeds) valid for 30 days starting at your arrival in Mexico
- Unlimited Calls and SMS (only text) in Mexico, USA or Canada
- Can also be used in USA and Canada for Data, Calls and SMS
- Unlimited Social Networks (Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat)
- LTE capable (LTE Coverage is available in most cities and touristic areas)
Now that you know what a SIM card is, and which brand to buy for the best coverage while in Mexico — let’s talk sizes so you know which SIM card to buy.
⚠️ Note: Before buying a SIM card for Mexico, you’ll want to see if 1) you already have free Mexico service, and 2) if your phone’s unlocked.
As you can see with the Mexico SIM card prepaid options above, they come in “GB” (gigabyte) sizes.
This is the amount of data you can use before the card stops working. If you run out, you can always refill it with more data while you’re in Mexico ▶︎ Find out how here.
💁♀️ Mexico Travel Tip: Order your Mexico SIM card now
You can have it in your wallet, and swap it out when your plane lands. This way, you’ll have cell service and data the second you’re in Mexico — so you can call an Uber and let everyone back home know you made it safely.
The great thing about any of the Telcel Mexico prepaid SIM card options above all come with free unlimited calls and texts within Mexico.
They also (usually) include and unlimited social media on Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter — and being on these social networks won’t count towards your data usage.
The things you’ll want to think about are how much you’ll be using the Google Maps app, as this can suck up a lot of data.
Also, you’ll have to keep video watching to a minimum, and make sure to download any Spotify playlists or podcasts you love, as streaming can suck up data fast.
Best MEXICO sim cards
What size Mexico SIM Card should I buy?
The majority of travelers will have more than enough data with this 4gb Telcel SIM of this 8gb Telcel SIM.
These will cover you even on a 10-day Mexico trip, and even if you’re doing a lot of high-data usages activities.
The average smartphone owner uses 2GB to 5GB of data each month.
📲 Source: nerdwallet
As you see in the statistic above, most use this amount in a month. However, while traveling, you tend to do more data-intense things like using Google Maps to get around all day.
With this 8gb Telcel SIM, you’d never have to worry about going over, and can just focus on enjoying your trip to Mexico.
If you know you’re going to use a lot of data, love watching YouTube videos, or just like having more than you think you’ll use, the 8gb SIM card is the one for you.
You can also size down to this 4gb SIM card, 3gb SIM card, or even a 2gb SIM card; both perfect for a short trip to Mexico.
While this isn’t exactly an unlimited data plan, this 12gb SIM card will last you months in Mexico, so it’s just as good as unlimited for most travelers.
The 12gb Mexico SIM card has one of the biggest data packages available anywhere. It would last you several months in Mexico — which is perfect for long-term travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
🇲🇽 Mexico Pro Tip: If you’re traveling solo like I do, you might even want to err on the side of caution and have a bit too much data, should you ever find yourself in an emergency situation.
💸 Pay As You Go SIM Cards in Mexico
The final option is to just buy this actual Telcel SIM card Mexico, which comes with no data at all.
With this, you can pay as you go, stopping in to shops throughout Mexico to add data as you need it.
Though this may save some money, it also wastes your precious travel time — so it’s always easier to opt for a prepaid SIM card for Mexico, which usually only ends up being a few dollars more.
To refill (recarga in Spanish), top-up or add money/credits to your SIM card, it’s a simple process.
Be on the lookout for a Telcel store or kiosk, or OXXO convenience stores; which are all over Mexico and will be easiest to find. Head inside, and ask the clerk for help purchasing what you need.
Best MEXICO sim cards
How to Set Up a Telcel SIM Card in Mexico
With a prepaid Telcel SIM, there’s no set up required. Simply turn off your phone, swap out your current SIM card for the new one, turn your phone back on, and you’re good to go.
If you’re getting one in Mexico, buy one at the airport when you land and the clerk you buy it from will assist with this.
Once you swap SIMs, you’ll have a Mexico number that starts with +55 or +52, as the SIM is basically what connects the phone to the phone number.
Remember to let friends and family know about your temporary +55 or +52 Mexico number, which will be located on the SIM card packaging.
After your trip, when you return your original United States SIM card, your phone will automatically revert back to your U.S. number.
Best MEXICO sim cards
How to Change a SIM Card
Never changed a SIM card before and wondering how to change your SIM card? No worries; it’s super easy and the video above will show you how.
One thing to keep in mind is that SIM cards are tiny. Whatever you do — Do not lose your U.S. SIM card — so make sure to store it somewhere very secure.
5 Reasons to Buy a Mexico SIM Card Before Your Trip
1. You Can Do it Right Here, Right Now
As with all things, procrastinating is never a good idea. If all you need to do is click above and buy a SIM Card right now in this very moment — Why wait?!
2. It’s Safer to Have One
The reality for most people is that their cell phone is almost a physical extension of themselves.
We’re so used to having it that we forget that it can actually be a lifesaving tool, and that it’s the thing we’d reach for in an emergency. Is travel really the time to not have phone access?
3. They Aren’t Very Expensive
Wondering, How much is a SIM card for Mexico? If you’re only visiting Mexico for a few days, this 2gb data SIM card costs less than $25 USD.
For all the convenience you get from having data and Mexico cell service, and how much stress this will alleviate from the whole travel process — it’s a relatively small price to pay.
4. Access to Travel Apps You Need for Mexico
While traveling, you need more access to apps than in daily life.
In Mexico, you’ll likely need Google Translate to communicate. Being in a new city means constant use of a Maps app so you don’t get lost.
You’ll also likely be using Uber a lot more, not to mention your Airbnb app, banking app, TripAdvisor, etc.
5. Your Loved Ones Will Thank You
The people back home will not only want to see your photos and videos, but they’ll also want to know you’re safe and enjoying yourself.
Now that we’ve reached the end of this list of the top five reasons to get a SIM Card for Mexico, let’s talk about your options for where to buy one in the country, should you choose not to do so online.
Best MEXICO sim cards
Where to Buy a Prepaid SIM Card in Mexico
✈️ Buying a Mexico SIM Card at the Airport
You can absolutely wait to buy a SIM card in Mexico when you arrive at the airport, or when you leave the airport (more on non-airport options below).
Keep in mind that buying Mexico SIM cards at the airport is about 25% more than if you get one outside the airport, which is why some people wait.
If you’re going to wait to get one until you leave the airport, have plans for how you’ll get to your accommodation.
While airports say they have free WiFi, I’ve never been able to properly connect to Mexico airport WiFi — and if you don’t have a SIM with data, you won’t be able to call an Uber.
As it’s often not too much cheaper to buy the SIM card at the airport versus buying one online in advance, here are a few things to consider about your airport purchase:
- Your flight might be delayed and you end up arriving at the airport when all the shops are closed, and now you can’t buy a SIM card.
- They might be sold out of the SIM card you need for your phone.
- You might arrive to the airport, and even though you told them you were traveling, your credit card company is blocking international charges, and now you can’t buy a SIM card 😡
Whatever the circumstances are, there’s a good chance something won’t work out when buying a SIM card in Mexico at the airport.
If this does happen, you’ll regret not buying your SIM card in advance — which you can do right here with the click of a button!
📲 OXXO Sim Card Mexico
In most parts of Mexico, it seems there’s an OXXO on every street, or at least every 3-5 blocks. All OXXOs sell Mexico SIM cards, and in several brands, including Telcel.
To buy one, head into any OXXO and ask for one of the SIM cards (chips) behind the counter. You’ll need to know what brand you want, and the amount of data you want to buy.
After purchasing, you’ll then put in the new SIM card and go through the activation process. ⚠️ Note: In Mexico, SIM cards are called “chips.”
📲 Walmart Sim Card Mexico
Walmarts are also all over Mexico, though much less prevalent than OXXO.
The cost for the SIM card itself will be comparable, though OXXO tends to be a few dollars cheaper.
However, if you happen to find yourself near a Walmart, you may want to try getting the card there over an OXXO.
The benefit to getting your SIM at Walmart is that there’s more employees, so that’s likely someone around who speaks English and can take more time to assist you.
In my experience, it’s rare to get an English-speaking cashier in OXXO.
Best MEXICO sim cards
Will my phone work in Mexico?
If you’re wondering, Will my cell phone work in Mexico? — you’re in luck, because it just might, but that depends on your carrier.
Some U.S. companies do offer complimentary North America service within Mexico, the U.S. and Canada, as these are the top two international travel destinations for Americans.
You will have to call your company to find out they offer you this. If they don’t, they will likely offer you the option to turn your international roaming on but don’t do this.
International roaming is much much much more expensive than buying any prepaid SIM Mexico option, so resist this urge.
🤔 What is international roaming on my cell phone?
Your company can, with a click of a button, make it so your phone works in Mexico. However, they often charge astronomical rates — like 50 cents per minute for calls!
While convenient, it’s also the most expensive way to have cell service in another country.
For this reason, I recommend buying this Telcel SIM card on Amazon now, so you have it the second you get to Mexico. I consider it the best international SIM card for Mexico travelers.
Best MEXICO sim cards
Is your cell phone unlocked?
In order for a SIM card swap to work, your phone must be unlocked.
Nowadays, most phones come unlocked, but this isn’t always the case. To see if yours is, call your cell company and ask. If it’s not, they can unlock it for you for free in just seconds.
⚠️ Note: When calling, let your company know you need the phone unlocked for travel, and that you’ll be using an international SIM card once it’s unlocked.
🤔 Is there 5G Mexico Phone Service?
There is 5G in some places, particularly big cities like Mexico City, Cabo San Lucas and Guadalajara. However, the cell service Mexico has is in many places is still 3G.
Now, this might sound primitive, but I’ve been living as a digital nomad in Mexico City, and other parts of the country like Playa del Carmen and Merida, since 2018 — and haven’t encountered any phone or internet issues.
Best MEXICO sim cards
Final Thoughts: How to Buy a Prepaid Mexico SIM Card
- 3GB Cellular Data (at full 4G/LTE speeds) valid for 30 days starting at your arrival in Mexico
- Unlimited Calls and SMS (only text) in Mexico, USA or Canada
- Can also be used in USA and Canada for Data, Calls and SMS
- Unlimited Social Networks (Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat)
- LTE capable (LTE Coverage is available in most cities and touristic areas)
We’ve reached the end of the article, and I hope you were able to discover the best Mexico SIM cards, where you can get yours online, and the Top 5 reasons why buying a Mexico SIM Card is a smart, safe idea.
While there are several ways to buy a Mexico SIM card, there’s also no time like the present!
For this reason, I recommend you buy your Mexico SIM right now with the click or a button (or tap of a screen), versus when you arrive in Mexico.
For convenience, you’ll want to pick one up before your trip, though it is a bit cheaper to get one in Mexico (though that process can eat into your precious travel time).
Whether you choose to buy your Mexico SIM card prepaid option online now, or wait until you arrive in Mexico, you’ll want to get a Telcel brand SIM card.
As Mexico’s largest cell service provider, you’ll get the best reception in the most places. They have lots of SIM cards Mexico options, and they work even if you’re venturing off the beaten path in Mexico.