Top Ways to Stay Connected in Mongolia: Tourist SIM and eSIM Options
Marissa Ling
February 6, 2024 20:55
Travel Tips
If you're planning a trip to Mongolia, getting local mobile data is easier than ever. Travelers can choose between purchasing a SIM card upon arrival, buying one in major cities, or opting for a digital eSIM before departure. Here’s a full breakdown of the options available, with pros and cons to help you decide what works best for your travel style.
1. Purchase a SIM Card at the Airport #
When you land at Chinggis Khaan International Airport or other Mongolian airports, you’ll find kiosks offering SIM cards from major providers like Mobicom and Unitel. Although the pricing here is typically around 10–20% higher than city prices, it’s extremely convenient for travelers who want instant connectivity without the hassle of city navigation.
Advantages
- Immediate activation
- No need to plan ahead
Disadvantages
- Slightly more expensive than in-town options
- Fewer plan choices
- Lower data allowances
- Passport required for purchase
2. Buy a SIM Card in Mongolian Cities #
Once you reach cities like Ulaanbaatar, you’ll discover that over 90% of convenience stores, mobile shops, and carrier branches sell SIM cards. These are usually priced lower than airport offerings and offer broader data plans.
Advantages
- Lower prices (10–15% cheaper than airports)
- Pay with cash
- More variety in data plans
Disadvantages
- Requires time and transport
- Possible language barriers
- Need to find a trusted retailer
3. Use an eSIM for Mongolia #
For travelers with eSIM-compatible phones, the digital SIM (eSIM) is by far the easiest and most flexible option. Purchase it online before your flight, receive a QR code via email, and activate it in minutes — no physical card required.
Advantages
- 100% remote purchase and setup
- No need to visit a store or swap physical SIMs
- Greater security
- Wide plan selection
Disadvantages
- Only works on eSIM-compatible devices
➡ Roamify’s Recommendation:
We suggest choosing an eSIM via Roamify if your phone supports it. It eliminates the need to hunt down physical stores or wait in airport lines. Setup is simple: scan a QR code and go online instantly upon arrival. eSIMs also reduce the risk of losing your SIM card while traveling.
Top SIM Providers for Mongolia Travel #
Here are the leading carriers offering tourist plans in Mongolia:
1. Mobicom SIM Plans #
- 20,000 MNT: 600MB + 5,000 units (valid 15 days)
- 35,000 MNT: 1.1GB + 10,000 units (valid 30 days)
- 60,000 MNT: 5GB + 15,000 units (valid 30 days)
Tourist SIMs include data and local credits. Mobicom also offers basic SIM cards from just 5,000 MNT.
2. Unitel Tour SIM Options #
- Tour SIM 5: 3GB + 5,000 units (5 days) – 15,000 MNT
- Tour SIM 10: 5GB + 10,000 units (10 days) – 25,000 MNT
- Tour SIM 30: 20GB + 20,000 units (30 days) – 40,000 MNT
All plans include free calls within the Unitel network.
3. Skytel Travel SIMs #
- Basic: 5GB + 10,000 calls (10 days) – 30,000 MNT
- Standard: 10GB + 20,000 calls (15 days) – 50,000 MNT
- Premium: 20GB + 30,000 calls (30 days) – 75,000 MNT
Unlimited Skytel-to-Skytel calling is included in all packages.
Do You Need a SIM Card When Visiting Mongolia? #
Absolutely. Buying a local SIM or eSIM can save you from costly international roaming fees. Mongolia offers budget-friendly packages for under $10 that allow you to use essential travel apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and translation tools without worry.
Local SIMs and eSIMs ensure smoother navigation, easier communication, and uninterrupted access to your online storage or social media.
What You’ll Need to Get a SIM in Mongolia #
Be ready to show identification when purchasing a SIM card — typically a passport, and occasionally your visa. Most places accept international credit or debit cards, but cash is handy, especially outside city centers.
SIM Card Types Available in Mongolia #
There are two main options available to tourists:
1. Physical Prepaid SIM Cards #
These cards can be bought at airports, convenience stores, or official shops. Plans typically start from just $1–$3 for the SIM itself, with packages ranging from $1–$10 for data bundles (1–15GB).
Pros
- Reliable coverage
- Lower pricing
- Can pay in cash
- Easy to top up
Cons
- Must physically swap SIM cards
- Requires store visit
- ID verification needed
2. Mongolia eSIMs for Tourists #
An eSIM is a virtual SIM that works without a physical card. Just scan the QR code sent by your provider and activate within minutes.
Cost: Packages usually range from $9–$45 for 0.5–10GB and are valid for 1–30 days.
Best For: Travelers who want to be online immediately, with no physical card and no visits to a store.
Pros
- Instant setup from anywhere
- No SIM swap needed
- Excellent for short trips
Cons
- Slightly pricier than local SIMs
- Requires an eSIM-compatible device
- Fewer local plan options
Roamify eSIM – Seamless Internet in Mongolia #
Roamify offers a range of data plans specifically for travelers heading to Mongolia. Whether you're staying for a few days or an entire month, Roamify has options from 1GB (7 days) for $9.90 up to 10GB (30 days) for $47.50. Their eSIMs use Unitel’s trusted network, providing coverage across both urban and rural areas.
Why Choose Roamify’s eSIM for Mongolia?
- Quick Activation – Get online within minutes
- Secure & Hassle-Free – No store visit required
- Reliable Network – Strong coverage with Unitel
- Competitive Prices – More affordable than roaming
- 24/7 Customer Support – Available via chat or email
All plans are prepaid with no contracts, and eSIM profiles are delivered via email after purchase.
How Long Does a Mongolia Tourist SIM Last? #
Validity depends on your chosen plan — most last between 5 and 30 days. Need more time? You can top up or extend with extra credit units, easily available throughout the country.
How to Activate & Use Your Mongolia SIM or eSIM #
For Physical SIMs: #
- Insert SIM into your unlocked phone
- Enable mobile data
- Manually select a local network if needed
- Disable data roaming on your regular SIM
- Remove SIM before departing Mongolia
For Roamify eSIMs: #
- Ensure your device supports eSIM
- Purchase your plan online from Roamify
- Receive a QR code and setup guide via email
- Open settings and add cellular plan
- Scan code and activate before or upon arrival
- Remove eSIM after trip to prevent charges
Final Thoughts #
Staying connected in Mongolia is easy and affordable whether you go with a local SIM card or an eSIM. For those seeking minimal hassle and immediate access, Roamify’s eSIM is an excellent solution. However, physical SIM cards remain a solid choice for travelers wanting to save on costs and don’t mind visiting a store. Either way, you’ll be ready to explore Mongolia with confidence and connectivity.
Related eSIM destination plans
Frequently asked questions
- What will I learn in Top Ways to Stay Connected in Mongolia: Tourist SIM and eSIM Options?
- You will learn how eSIM activation works, how to compare data plans, and which setup steps matter most before and during your trip.
- How do I choose the right eSIM plan for Japan?
- Match your plan to trip length, expected daily data use, hotspot needs, and network quality in your destination. Short stays usually need less data, while remote work and video calls need more.
- Where can I buy travel eSIM plans for Japan and Thailand?
- Use the destination links in this guide to go directly to Roamify country pages, compare plan options, and complete checkout before departure.