Buying SIM card at Georgia airports: The Definitive Guide

Visiting Georgia is an amazing experience with its ancient churches, breathtaking mountains, and world-famous wine. Having mobile data during your trip can make exploring the country far more enjoyable. Getting a local SIM card at Georgia airports upon arrival is often the easiest way to stay connected. This guide provides everything you need to know about buying a SIM card at airports in Georgia.

1. Which airport in Georgia offers SIM cards for tourists

There are 3 international and 3 domestic airports in Georgia.

The three main international airports in Georgia where travelers can purchase SIM cards are:

• Tbilisi International Airport (TBS) – The largest airport and transport hub in Georgia located about 17 km from Tbilisi city center. Tbilisi Airport has multiple SIM card providers with desks in the arrivals area including MagtiCom, Silknet (Geocell), and Cellfie (Beeline).

• Batumi International Airport (BUS) – Located just 5 km from Batumi city center. Offers SIM cards from major Georgia mobile operators.

• Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) – The second largest airport in Georgia located about 18 km from Kutaisi city center. SIM card providers include Magti, Silknet, and Veon.

All three of these airports have multiple SIM card provider desks, shops, and kiosks located just past immigration control in the arrivals halls. Tbilisi Airport generally offers the largest selection and most competitive rates on SIM cards for tourists arriving in Georgia.

2. Where to buy Georgia SIM cards at airports

The easiest places to purchase a SIM card at Georgia airport after arriving are from the provider sales desks or shops located in the baggage claim/arrivals hall. Look for signs of major providers. There will often be sales agents at desks ready to help set you up with the right plan.

Some key locations at the main airports include:

• Carriers stores: All three operators has at both Tbilisi International Airport (Tbilisi Airport) and Kutaisi International Airport (Kutaisi Airport). The shops are typically located in the arrivals hall, and they are open 24/7.
• Convenience stores: at convenience stores and even airports sell you SIM cards in Georgia. Nevertheless, the available SIM cards in convenient stores could be fewer as compared with those available from the airport kiosks. Also, the prices may be a little bit higher in convenience stores.

Always look for uniformed agents at an official desk for the provider. Avoid buying SIM cards from unauthorized dealers roaming the airport arrivals halls as they likely overcharge tourists. The best rates will come directly from the major provider sales desks or their official airport shops.

3. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Georgia airports

To ensure a smooth experience purchasing a Georgia SIM card at Georgia airport, be sure to:

• Have your passport ready – You will need to show your passport when registering for mobile service as a foreign tourist.
• Know your dates – Tell the sales agent how long you are staying so they can offer the right plan duration. Most tourist SIMs are for 7, 15, or 30 days.
• Research providers – Each provider has slightly different rates and coverage strengths. Magti generally has the best rural/mountain coverage.
• Exchange currency – Have some Lari (Gel) in cash for paying for the SIM card so you don’t have to withdraw money immediately.
• Understand data needs – Decide how much data you’ll need for your trip. 2-4GB is usually enough for moderate use over 2 weeks.
• Ask about roaming – Check if your home country has roaming agreements for lower rates or ask to get roaming added to your Georgia SIM if needed.
• Activate right away – Activate the SIM card at the airport if possible to start using as soon as you get to your hotel or accommodation.

Being prepared with local currency, passport, and an idea of your mobile data needs will make buying a Georgia airport SIM card quick and hassle-free.

4. Georgia eSIM – an Alternative to Airport SIM Card

While physical SIM cards from providers are the most common option, another great way to have mobile data right upon arrival in Georgia is by getting an eSIM before you travel.

An eSIM or electronic SIM is a software-based SIM profile that is digitally downloaded using an app on your phone rather than inserted as a physical card.

Key advantages of using an eSIM for Georgia travel include:

• Activation before arrival – eSIMs allow you to setup service ahead of time while still home.
• No airport SIM search – Skip having to find a provider’s desk after a long flight.
• Multi-country – eSIM providers like Airalo can give you coverage in multiple countries from one eSIM app.
• Online sign-up – Sign-up using the provider’s website or app rather than an in-person registration.
• Superior coverage – eSIM providers combine multiple networks for better overall coverage.
• Flexible plans – No long-term contracts, pay precisely for the days you’ll be traveling.
• Digital management – Manage your eSIM plan, data usage, and payments through an app.

While a bit more advanced, eSIMs are easy to setup and give you greater flexibility and convenience than physical SIM cards – perfect for the frequent flyer.

Stay connected in Georgia with an eSIM from esimgeorgia.net.

Skip roaming fees and get affordable data for your Georgia trip. Plans from $6. Purchase now, setup is easy.

5. FAQs about SIM Card at Georgia Airports

6. Conclusion

Upon arrival in Georgia, get a SIM card or eSIM at the airport for mobile data. Acquiring one is quick, easy, and inexpensive. Be prepared with documents, local currency, and knowledge of providers to get connected fast. Then you can share epic photos of Georgian scenery via your mobile network.