Getting a SIM card at Cancun International Airport can make your life much easier when traveling in Mexico. With a local SIM card, you’ll have instant access to cellular data and can make local calls, send texts, and use ridesharing or map apps during your trip. Here’s what you need to know about buying a SIM card after landing at Cancun Airport.

Where to Buy SIM Card at Cancun Airport 2023

I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Cancun Airport

Cancun Airport has a few options for purchasing SIM cards onsite after you arrive.

1. Viva Aerobus Counter

counter

One of the best places to buy a SIM card is at the Viva Aerobus airline counter located before passport control in Terminal 3. They sell SIM cards from Telcel, Mexico’s largest mobile carrier. A standard prepaid SIM costs around 300 pesos ($15 USD). Make sure to ask for an “Amigo SIM” which doesn’t require registration.

2. Airport Kiosks

There are also a couple small shops and kiosks located in the baggage claim and arrivals area that sell SIM cards from various providers like Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T. Prices are generally around 300 pesos. These kiosks sometimes run out of stock, so go early.

3. Supermarkets Near the Airpor

supermarket

If you don’t find a good SIM card deal at the airport, another option is to take a taxi to a nearby supermarket like OXXO, 7-Eleven, or Chedraui Selecto. These stores carry a variety of Mexican SIM card brands. Just ask the taxi to wait while you run in and pick one up.

II. Cancun Airport SIM Card Options and Costs

Here are some of the main SIM card options you’ll find at Cancun Airport and nearby stores:

New wpDataTable

Operator SIM Option Inclusions Approx. Cost
Telcel Telcel Tourist SIM 5GB data, unlimited Mexico calls/texts $15-20
Telcel Amigo Sin Límite 20GB data, unlimited Mexico calls/texts $25
AT&T AT&T Mexico Tourist SIM 3GB data, Mexico calls/texts $20-25
AT&T Unlimited Mexico Plan Unlimited data, calls/texts $30-35

Notes:

  • Prices may vary depending on the retailer and the SIM card provider.
  • Some SIM cards may require a deposit, which will be refunded when you return the SIM card at the end of your trip.
  • Be sure to check the compatibility of your phone with the SIM card you choose.

Tips: Some SIM cards may not work in all areas of Mexico, so be sure to check the coverage map before you buy a SIM card.

III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Cancun Airport

To purchase and activate a SIM card at Cancun Airport, you’ll need:

  • Unlocked Phone: Your phone must be unlocked to work with a foreign SIM card. Contact your provider in advance to request an unlock.
  • Passport: Some SIM card providers may ask to see your passport for identity verification when purchasing.
  • Cash: Have around 300 Mexican pesos in cash on hand to purchase your SIM.
  • Charger: Bring a universal charger to recharge your phone. Mexican outlets use Type A and B plugs.
  • eSIM Alternative: If your phone supports eSIM, you can download a Mexican data plan online in advance instead of a physical SIM card.

IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Cancun Airport

If your phone has an embedded eSIM chip, another option is to purchase a Mexican eSIM plan online prior to your trip instead of buying a local SIM card. Some benefits of using eSIM include:

esim benefits
  • Convenience – eSIM allows instant activation without swapping SIMs
  • Phone Compatibility – eSIM requires a newer model iPhone or Android. Many phones still need physical SIMs.
  • Availability – eSIM plans are still limited compared to regular SIMs in Mexico. Main options are AT&T Mexico and Truphone.
  • Pricing – eSIM pricing tends be slightly higher than regular SIMs. But can still find prepaid eSIMs from around $10 USD
esim price

Leave your spare physical SIM card at home and go digital with an eSIM from esim-mexico.com by GIGAGO

esim-mexico.com offers both short-term and long-term eSIM plans that tap into the major networks in Mexico for data usage and calls. 

V. FAQs

Do I need to register my SIM card?

Some Mexican SIM cards require passport registration by law. To avoid this, purchase an “Amigo” prepaid SIM which doesn’t need registration.

Can I use Uber and WhatsApp with a Mexican SIM?

Yes, a local SIM card will allow you to use ridesharing, messaging, and other apps during your stay.

How can I recharge my SIM?

You can add more data or credits at OXXO and 7-Eleven stores which are widespread in Cancun. Some SIMs also let you recharge online.

Do SIM cards work in other parts of Mexico?

Telcel and Movistar have the widest coverage around Mexico. An Amigo SIM from Telcel will work throughout most of the country.

VI. Conclusion

Getting SIM card at Cancun Airport is quick and affordable, costing around 300 pesos ($15 USD). Look for prepaid SIMs from major providers like Telcel or Movistar in airport shops or counters. An “Amigo” SIM offers the easiest setup without passport registration. With data and local calling, a SIM card can be invaluable for navigating and communicating during your trip in Mexico.