Using Chile SIM cards is the best option if you’re getting ready to travel to Chile and want to keep in touch. Purchasing a SIM Card in Chile may make traveling much easier since it provides affordable data, calls, and texts without charging you outrageous roaming costs from your home service provider. We will cover every important element in this guide on how to get a prepaid SIM card in Chile.
Table of Contents
I. Should I Buy a New Chile SIM Card for My Trip?
Chile offers several convenient options for visitors to get connected:
| Form | Characteristic | Advantage | Disadvantage |
| Roaming | Connect Internet by using their existing SIM card. | No need to remove the primary SIM card => eliminating the risk of losing When calling, use the same number | Expensive The danger of being unable to explore after arrival. |
| Prepaid Chile SIM card | Use an actual tourist SIM card. The phone has to be unlocked. | Reasonably priced A variety of options to meet all demands | Wait to install. Losing the main SIM Card. Remove the existing SIM card to use the other. |
| Free Wifi | Have in some public places. | Free | Be time-consuming to complete a registration form => information leaking. Inability to actively use the Internet when required Risks to information security |
| Pocket Wifi | Share the network with other devices nearby | Access the Internet without having to be unlocked. Simple to use: just switch it on and go. | Exorbitant equipment rental expenses Need to go to the store and wait for delivery Always keep it on hand Need to use a backup charger or charge The internet is not excellent |
In summary, the most promising option for tourists traveling in Chile will be staying connected through a local SIM Card or eSIM. Having a prepaid SIM Card or eSIM eliminates those concerns – you have control of the data and there are no coverage charges, while coverage is solid regardless of where in the country that takes place.
II. Chile SIM Card Types – Which One is the Best for Tourists?
When getting a Chile SIM card as a traveler, you have two main options:
| Factors | Physical SIM Card | eSIM Card |
| Pros |
- Widely available for purchase at stores across Chile - Affordable data packages - Can be used with any unlocked phone |
- More convenient, no need to replace physical SIM - Dual SIM functionality |
| Cons |
- Need to physically insert and replace SIM cards - Risk of losing card |
- Limited phone compatibility - Fewer e-SIM data packages currently |
For most tourists visiting Chile, e-SIM cards are also a viable option if you meet the device requirements and prefer the convenience.
III. How Much Data Is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Chile?
Choosing the right data allowance for your Chile SIM card depends on your expected usage during your trip:
1. Usage
If you need basic internet access like emails, simple navigation, and light social media usage, a 6GB data SIM card should be enough for a 5-7 days visit. This would allow approximately 1GB of data per day.
Some examples of light usage:
- Emails & messages
- Basic maps & transportation
- Occasional social media
2. Heavy Usage
For more intensive usage like extensive mapping, streaming video & music, gaming, and working remotely you should opt for an 8-15GB SIM card for a 5-7 day trip. This would provide 2-3GB per day on average.
Some examples of heavy usage cases
- Using the phone as a WiFi hotspot
- Streaming videos/music
- Gaming
- Working remotely
The average data usage can vary greatly depending on your specific usage. But as a general rule for Chile tourist SIM cards, 6GB will cover most travelers’ basic usage for 5-7 days while 8-15GB is recommended for heavy data users visiting for under 1 week.
IV. How Much Does a Chile SIM Card Cost?
| Provider | Plan Name | Data | Validity | Texts | Calls | Price in USD |
| Entel | Basico | 300MB | 7 days | Unlimited | 30 mins/day | $5 |
| Extra | 1.5GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $10 | |
| Maximo | 4GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $15 | |
| Movistar | Pase Diario | 500MB | 1 day | Unlimited | 30 mins/day | $1.5 |
| 10 días | 2GB | 10 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $10 | |
| Sin Límite Movistar | 5GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $15 | |
| Claro | Complete | 3GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $15 |
| Mas Completo | 10GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $20 | |
| WOM | Comienza | 500MB | 7 days | Unlimited | 30 mins/day | $5 |
| Evoluciona | 2GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $12 | |
| Total | 10GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $18 | |
| VTR | Go | 1GB | 30 days | Unlimited | 30 mins/day | $10 |
| Infinite | 5GB | 30 days | Unlimited | Unlimited | $13 |
👉 Key details
- Entel, Movistar & Claro are the largest providers with the widest coverage
- Short-term plans ideal for travel under 1 month
- Monthly plans best value for extended stays
- Unlimited texts standard, calls limits on basic plans
- 5-10GB plans best for heavy data use
- Sub-$20 USD monthly plans all-inclusive
V. Chile eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Cards
Instead of using a plastic SIM card that inserts into your phone, an embedded SIM or eSIM is a digital SIM integrated into your phone or device. eSIM technology allows dual SIM capability through a standard SIM slot plus an integrated eSIM.
eSIM has a lot of benefits for users
- Diverse options for data and validity
- Buy and install in advance, and use immediately after landing
- Fast support, no need to contact the network operator
- Multi-SIM capability, allows you to digitally switch between plans or have multiple plans active.
- Security, be not removed or swapped, reduces the risk of SIM swap fraud.
In general, eSIM technology offers travelers better connectivity alternatives more flexibility security, and facilitation through electronic control. You can consider esimchile.net which provides various plans for any traveling goals.
Find the best options for your upcoming trip:
Plan that may interest you
VI. Where to Buy a Chile SIM Card?
When you want to buy a Chile SIM Card, there are some options:
1. Buy a physical SIM Card
- Buy a physical SIM Card at the airport
Major airports like Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport have SIM card desks or shops operated by Chile telcos like Movistar, Claro, WOM, and Entel. Prices are generally reasonable but selection can be limited.
- Local Provider Stores
Visitors can visit a local Movistar, Claro, WOM, or Entel store across Chile. They offer the most options for data packages and SIM types. Staff may be less proficient in English though.
- Mall Kiosks
Many malls in Chile have independent kiosks selling SIM cards from various carriers. Usually offer competitive pricing and data plans. Staff likely speak basic English.
- Online Orders
You can order physical SIM cards from resellers like Movistar, Claro, WOM and Entel have more local plans that are very affordable for you to buy.
Interested in buying SIM cards at Chile airports upon arrival? Check out our guide: Buying SIM card at Chile airports: The Definitive Guide to get more useful tips!
2. Buy eSIM online
To activate an eSIM directly from your phone, follow these steps:
- Ensure that your phone is compatible with eSIM technology.
- Explore eSIM offers from providers such as albaniaesim.com and alosim.
- Choose a suitable data package.
- Create an account and provide your passport details.
- Activate your eSIM directly on your phone.
- Keep in mind that while buying online is convenient, the selection may be limited.
Additionally, it’s important to carefully compare rates as eSIM data packages are often more expensive than local SIM cards.
Consider buying an eSIM from the #1 eSIM provider in Chile – esimchile.net which offers diverse plans for any traveling goals.
VII. How to Use Chile SIM
Here is a quick guide to installing and using your Chile SIM card
- Unlock Phone – Your device must be network unlocked to use another SIM. Contact your home carrier to unlock if needed.
- Insert SIM – Turn the phone off, locate your SIM tray, and gently insert the Chile SIM.
- Setup SIM – Turn your phone on and follow the prompts to set up your plan and data package. Enter any PIN codes as required.
- Top Up – When SIM data or minutes run low, you can top-up at local stores. Ask your provider for top-up instructions.
- Contact Support – Most Chile SIM providers have English customer support if you face any issues. Check with store staff or call support numbers on pamphlets with your SIM.
VIII. Best Mobile Operators for Chile SIM Cards
In Chile, the major mobile networks are Movistar, Entel, and Claro, with WOM a popular budget option.
Best Mobile Operators for Chile SIM Cards
| Operator | Coverage | Price range for SIM card | Pros | Cons | eSIM available |
| Entel | Extensive nationwide 4G coverage, especially in major cities and towns. | Starting at ~$10-15 for a basic SIM card. Regular prepaid plans $10-30/month. | Wide coverage and reliable network. Affordable plans. | Customer service can be slow. | Yes, Entel offers eSIM plans. |
| Claro | Broad LTE coverage of populated areas. Reaches over 90% of Chileans. | SIM cards ~$5-10. Prepaid plans $10-50/month depending on data allowance. | Large network, fast speeds. Wide selection of plans. | Can be more expensive than competitors. | Yes, Claro has eSIM options. |
| Movistar | Nationwide 4G/LTE and expanding 5G network. Reliable in metropolitan areas. | Basic SIM $5-10. Plans $15-60/month for varying data and features. | Large network, good customer service. High-end plans. | Plans start at higher price points. | Yes, Movistar provides eSIM connectivity. |
In summary, Entel provides the most robust coverage nationwide, while Claro and Movistar may be better for heavy data users.
Not sure which Chile mobile operator to choose for your trip? Check our article Chile Mobile Operators: Which One is the Best to get more details!
IX. Tips for Saving Data for Chile SIM Card
To reduce excessive data usage that can drain your prepaid SIM card allowance, follow these tips:
1. Leverage WiFi
Whenever free public WiFi is available, connect instead of using SIM data. Many hotels, cafes, transport hubs, and tourist sites offer complimentary WiFi.
2. Download Maps Offline
If you are navigating a lot, pre-download Google/Apple Maps of the areas you will be visiting via WiFi before going mobile.
3. Limit Streaming
Streaming video and music eats huge amounts of data. Download content when on WiFi or reduce streaming usage over SIM data.
4. Disable Auto App Updates
Stop apps continuously updating and draining data in the background by disabling auto updates in settings. Update manually only when on WiFi.
5. Turn Off Data Roaming
Default roaming data is very expensive. Be sure data roaming is off, and manually enable brief usage only if necessary.
Follow these simple practices to save significant data usage on your Chile prepaid SIM, preventing the need for expensive top-ups during your trip!
X. FAQs about SIM Cards in Chile
Can I use eSIM for Chile?
Yes, eSIM data packages are available for Chile but still limited. Physical SIM cards still offer far better value currently and have wider compatibility.
Where is the cheapest place to buy a Chile SIM?
Local provider stores across Chile generally have very similar pricing. WOM locations offer some of the cheapest prepaid data rates. Airport desks can be good options for convenience too.
How long does activation take?
Activation is immediate in-store when purchasing SIM. Just follow the prompts to set up data, calls, etc when inserting a SIM into the phone. The total process takes about 10-15 minutes.
Can I top up my SIM in Chile?
Yes, you can top-up prepaid credit at thousands of locations across Chile like supermarkets, pharmacies, and metro stations. Ask your provider for specific top-up instructions.
How long is my SIM active without use?
Most Chile SIM cards remain active for 30-90 days after activation. To extend longer, you need to top up even without using data/minutes. Check with the provider for validity timeframes.
XI. Conclusion
A local Chile prepaid SIM card is extremely useful for convenient calling, maps, transportation, and internet access during your travels.eSIM still provides the best value and availability.
Major carriers such as Movistar and Claro provide excellent value with their data and call packages. Choose a network known for extensive 4G coverage where you’ll be traveling. Use your data allocation wisely.
A Chile SIM card allows you to readily share your adventures, access maps for navigation assistance, and keep in contact with those at home. Have a wonderful trip and remain connected throughout your travels!
