If you’re traveling to the Philippines in 2025, getting the right SIM card is the fastest way to stay connected. Whether you’re landing in Manila, heading straight to Boracay, or exploring Palawan and Cebu, having reliable mobile internet is essential for maps, ride-hailing, and keeping in touch. In this guide, we compare the best tourist SIM cards in the Philippines — including Smart, Globe, DITO, GOMO, and eSIM options — with updated prices, coverage, and tips on where to buy.

📌 Best SIM Cards for the Philippines – Quick Picks (2025)

• Best Overall for Tourists: Smart Prepaid – Strong coverage in cities & islands like Boracay
• Best Urban Coverage: Globe Prepaid – Great in Manila, Cebu, and tourist spots
• Best Budget Data Plan: DITO – Cheap but limited rural coverage
• Best for No-Expiry Data: GOMO – Keep unused data forever
• Best Digital-Only Option: eSIM (Globe/Smart) – No physical card needed

📶 Option for Travelers: Online Data-Only Services

For those who need data-only access, services like Saily are a great choice. These plans are entirely digital, easy to purchase online, and provide internet access without requiring a physical SIM card. Many travelers find this hassle-free and highly efficient for short-term trips.

Click here for more info: Saily

✅ Best SIM Card in the Philippines for Tourists – Smart vs Globe

Provider Comparison Table

🔍 Detailed Provider Breakdown

1. Smart Communications

• Coverage: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent in both cities and rural areas, including Boracay)
• Internet Speed: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Fast and reliable, especially for streaming and video calls)
• Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Competitive pricing with additional bonuses like free YouTube data)

Recommended Plans:

• GigaSurf299: PHP 299 for 2 GB + 1 GB YouTube, valid for 30 days.
• GigaSurf599: PHP 599 for 12 GB, valid for 30 days.
• GigaSurf999: PHP 999 for 24 GB, valid for 30 days.

➡️ Explore Smart's prepaid offers

Smart Communications – Smart App (formerly GigaLife)

• Android Users: Download on Google Play
• iOS Users: Download on App Store

2. Globe Telecom

• Coverage: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Good in cities and popular tourist areas like Boracay, but weaker in remote locations)
• Internet Speed: ⭐⭐⭐ (Stable but slower during peak hours in busy areas)
• Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐ (Decent plans, but smaller data limits compared to competitors)

Recommended Plans:

• GoSURF299: PHP 299 for 2 GB, valid for 30 days.
• GoSURF599: PHP 599 for 10 GB, valid for 30 days.
• GoSURF999: PHP 999 for 20 GB, valid for 30 days.

➡️ View Globe's full prepaid offers

Globe Telecom – GlobeOne App

• Android Users: Download on Google Play
• iOS Users: Download on App Store

3. DITO Telecommunity

• Strengths: Affordable, with generous data packages. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
• Weaknesses: Limited coverage in rural or remote areas, including some parts of Boracay.

Recommended Plans:

• DITO 99: PHP 99 for 10 GB, valid for 30 days.
• DITO 199: PHP 199 for 25 GB, valid for 30 days.
• DITO 499: PHP 499 for 50 GB, valid for 30 days.

➡️ View DITO's prepaid plans

DITO Telecommunity – DITO App

• Android Users: Download on Google Play
• iOS Users: Download on App Store

✅ Where to Buy a Tourist SIM Card in the Philippines (Manila, Boracay & More)

Manila Airport (NAIA):

• SIM cards are available at arrival halls, but be cautious of inflated prices. Vendors may bundle unnecessary extras into packages.

Boracay:

• Caticlan Jetty Port: Vendors here offer reasonable pricing and assistance with setup.
• D'Mall (Station 2): Both Globe and Smart have official stores here.
• Convenience Stores: Shops like 7-Eleven and sari-sari stores often sell SIM cards and prepaid load credits.

✅ How to Register a Tourist SIM Card in the Philippines (2025 Law)

As per the SIM Registration Act (December 2022), all SIM cards, including tourist SIMs, must be registered.

Documents Required:

• Passport for identification.
• Proof of address in the Philippines (e.g., hotel booking).
• Return ticket showing your departure date.

Registration Options:

• Register online:
  • Smart SIM Registration
  • Globe SIM Registration
• Register at the point of purchase with vendor assistance.

📲 eSIM Options

For travelers with eSIM-compatible devices, eSIMs are a great option. Both Globe and Smart offer eSIM services that are easy to set up online or in-store.

• Globe eSIM: Learn more and activate here
• Smart eSIM: Step-by-step activation guide

💡 Tips for Staying Connected

• Use Online Services: For data-only needs, consider Saily, which provides fast internet access without requiring a physical SIM.
• Avoid Airport Scams: Buy your SIM from authorized stores or local vendors to avoid overpaying.
• Top-Up Easily: Use GCash or PayMaya to reload your balance quickly.
• Be Prepared for Brownouts: Frequent power outages in Boracay mean you should:
  • Keep your devices and power banks charged.
  • Use restaurants or cafes with backup generators if needed.
  • Activate mobile data to stay online during outages.
• Consider eSIM Options: They are convenient and available online for Globe and Smart.
• Plan Your Boracay Trip: For a smooth journey to the island, check our guide on how to get to Boracay.
• Philippines Travel Tips: Find more essential advice for your trip on our Philippines Travel Tips page.

🎥 Helpful Video Guides

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About SIM Cards in the Philippines

• Q: What is the best tourist SIM card in the Philippines?
  A: Smart and Globe are the top choices for tourists. Smart offers better rural coverage, while Globe performs well in cities and tourist hubs.
• Q: Can I buy a SIM card at Manila Airport?
  A: Yes, but prices are higher. For better value, buy at malls, convenience stores, or at Caticlan Port if going to Boracay.
• Q: Does the Philippines have eSIM?
  A: Yes, both Smart and Globe offer eSIMs, which can be activated online before your trip.
• Q: How much is a tourist SIM card in the Philippines?
  A: Prices range from ₱50 for a basic SIM to ₱299–₱999 for monthly data plans.