Heading to Taiwan soon? Don’t stress about staying connectedIn this guide, I’ll break down the Taiwan SIM Card and eSIM for Tourists, from easy airport pick-ups to budget-friendly online plans. Plus, I’ll share a few local tips to make sure you’ve got smooth, reliable internet the whole trip.
Last updated: 2025/08/18
Why book Taiwan SIM Card online before you fly?
Here’s the deal: Taiwan’s three main providers (Chunghwa, FarEasTone, and Taiwan Mobile) all have excellent coverage.
5G is pretty much everywhere—from buzzing Taipei streets to coastal towns like Taitung. So you don’t need to stress over which telco has the “best” network.
The real difference is how you buy it:
- Book online in advance – cheaper, transparent prices, and you know exactly what you’re getting.
- Physical SIM – pick it up at the airport counter once you land, and staff will even help you set it up.
- eSIM – if your phone supports it, this is the easiest! Buy online, get a QR code, scan, and you’re instantly connected. No card swapping, no tiny SIMs to lose.
Quick Guide: Taiwan SIM Card and eSIM for Tourists
| Taiwan SIM card for tourist | SIM card | eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Klook | ||
| KKday | ||
| Trip.com | – |
Taiwan’s Major Telecom Operators
When it comes to internet in Taiwan, you’ll find three main players:
- Chunghwa Telecom – Best overall coverage, especially if you’re heading into the mountains or more remote rural areas.
- FarEasTone – Strong in big cities, with competitive pricing and solid 5G service.
- Taiwan Mobile – Reliable in urban zones, offering flexible and tourist-friendly packages.
✨ For travelers, you honestly don’t need to stress about which one to pick.
All three deliver fast, stable connections. Just choose the plan that fits your budget and you’ll be good to go!
SIM vs eSIM: Which one should you pick?
- Physical SIM: Great for those who prefer hands-on help—staff at the airport will set everything up for you.
- eSIM: Perfect if you want the ultimate convenience. No swapping cards, no extra hassle—just scan and go.
Personally, I prefer eSIM because it makes the whole travel experience lighter. I don’t even need a SIM ejector tool anymore.
Tip: If your phone supports eSIM, it’s the easiest choice. If not, a prepaid SIM card works just as well.
| Feature | Physical SIM | eSIM |
| Setup | Insert card, ready to use | Scan QR code, instant activation |
| Coverage | Excellent 5G nationwide | Same as physical SIM |
| Keep your original number | No | Yes (dual SIM support) |
| Best for | Older devices or long stays | Newer phones, short-term trips, convenience |
How’s the internet in Taiwan?
In one word: fantastic.
- Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung? 5G speeds everywhere.
- Hualien and Taitung on the east coast? Still reliable.
- Hiking up in the mountains? That’s where you might drop to 4G, but you’ll rarely be completely offline.
So no matter where you go, you’ll stay connected.
How much data do you need?
- Light user: 1GB/day (Google Maps + messaging)
- Average traveler: 2–3GB/day (photos, some streaming, social media)
- Heavy user: Unlimited plan—you’ll thank yourself later.
Where to Buy a Taiwan SIM Card or eSIM
- Airport pick-up: Available at Taoyuan, Songshan, and Kaohsiung airports. Convenient, but you may wait in line.
- Online platforms: Trip.com, KKday, or Klook. Best prices, transparent, and hassle-free.
- International eSIM apps: Airalo, Saily → buy and activate online before you land.
- Local stores: usually require local ID, so not tourist-friendly.
👉 Best choice: Book online before your trip for the lowest price and easiest process.
Things to Check Before Buying a Taiwan SIM/eSIM
- Does your phone support eSIM?
- Is the plan unlimited or capped?
- Does it allow hotspot tethering?
- Does the plan match your travel length?
- Do you need voice calls or data-only?
Final Thoughts
Traveling in Taiwan is easy, and staying connected is even easier. With nationwide 5G coverage, you don’t need to worry about finding a signal—it’s all about picking the most convenient way to get your SIM.
👉 My tip: book online before you land.
- If you want peace of mind, grab a physical SIM and let the airport staff set it up for you.
- If your phone supports it, just go with an eSIM—fast, simple, and totally stress-free.
Either way, you’ll have smooth internet for your whole Taiwan trip.
Taiwan SIM Card & eSIM FAQ
Is internet fast in Taiwan?
Yes—5G speeds in cities can reach 200Mbps+.
Should I buy at the airport?
Possible, but more expensive. Online pre-order is better.
Can I use hotspot sharing?
Yes, most SIM and eSIM plans support tethering.
Do I really need a SIM in Taiwan?
Yes—international roaming is costly, and free WiFi isn’t reliable everywhere.
Which carrier is the best?
For tourists, all three (Chunghwa, FarEasTone, Taiwan Mobile) perform similarly. Just pick the cheapest plan.
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