If you’re planning a trip to Georgia, having a local SIM card for your phone is highly recommended. A Georgia SIM card provides affordable mobile data so you can use maps, translation apps and social media while traveling around. It also gives you a Georgian phone number so you can make cheap local calls. This detailed guide has everything you need to know about getting a Georgia SIM card for your upcoming trip. We’ll cover:

GEORGIA SIM Card

1. Should I Buy a New SIM Card for My Georgia Trip?

buy georgia sim card

For most travelers, getting a local Georgia SIM card makes sense. Here are some of the key benefits:

  • Cheaper than roaming – Roaming charges from your home provider are often very expensive. A local SIM gives you affordable data prices.
  • Works on unlocked phones – As long as your phone is unlocked, you can insert a Georgia SIM and use it during your trip.
  • Local phone number – This allows you to make calls and send texts to Georgian numbers at very low rates.
  • Mobile data – You’ll have internet access via the mobile network wherever you travel in the country. Very useful for maps, translations, and social media.
  • Prepaid flexibility – Georgia SIMs are prepaid, so you can control your spending and won’t get stuck with a large bill.

The main reason not to get one is if your phone is locked. Also, iPhones bought in the US may not be compatible with Georgian networks. But overall, a local SIM card is recommended for Georgia.

2. Georgia SIM Card Types – Which One is the Best for Tourists?

There are three main types of SIM cards available in Georgia. Here is a table that summarizes the pros and cons of each type of SIM card:

Type of SIM card Pros Cons
Prepaid Convenient, no contract required Limited data and minutes
Contract More data and minutes Requires a monthly payment
eSIM Convenient, no physical SIM card required Not as widely available as prepaid or contract SIM cards

The best type of SIM card for you will depend on your individual needs and usage patterns. If you are only visiting Georgia for a short period, a prepaid SIM card will likely be your best option. If you plan to stay in Georgia for a longer time, you may want to consider a contract SIM card. And if you want the most convenient option, an eSIM is a good choice.

3. How Much Data Is Enough for a Prepaid Tourist SIM Card for Georgia?

Georgia has excellent 4G coverage, so you’ll want a prepaid SIM with plenty of high-speed data included. Here are some recommended amounts to look for:

  • Light user – 3GB data for a short trip with minimal browsing/maps
  • Moderate user – 5-10GB for occasional web use, some video streaming
  • Heavy user – 10-15+GB for extensive browsing, video streaming, rideshares, etc.

5GB is a good starter amount for most tourists in Georgia. You can always top up more data later if needed.

The main prepaid SIM providers like Magti and Geocell have packages with 3GB, 5GB, 10GB and unlimited data amounts. Just avoid very cheap SIMs with only 1-2GB as that won’t last long.

4. How Much Does a Georgia SIM Card Cost?

Georgia SIM card costs are very reasonable. Here are typical prices:

Operators SIM Plans Price (USD) Data Local Calls Messages Validity Activation Total Cost (USD)
Cellfie Tourist ~$7 5GB Unlimited + 50 Int'l Mins Unlimited 14 days *120*56# ~$8
Silknet Tourist 3 ~$4 Unlimited 30 local mins Unlimited 3 days *017*6*1# ~$6
Tourist ~$5 Unlimited 30 local mins Unlimited 7 days *017*3*1# ~$7
Tourist Start ~$5 4000MB 30 local mins + 15 int'l mins Unlimited 15 days *017*1*1# ~$7
Tourist Unlimited ~$11 Unlimited Unlimited local mins + 30 int'l mins Unlimited 15 days *017*2*1# ~$13
Tourist 30 ~$18 Unlimited 500 local mins Unlimited 30 days *017*7*1# ~$20
MagtiCom Slknet SIM ~$5 5000MB - Free local SMS/MMS 15 days 3315 ~$5
Slknet SIM (free 4.5G SIM) ~$11 3000MB Free local calls + 30 int'l mins Free local SMS/MMS 15 days 2230 ~$11

In summary, Georgia SIM cards are quite cheap for tourists. You can pick up a starter pack for $60-15 and then add more data as required for just a few dollars.

5. Georgia eSIM – Alternative to Physical SIM Cards

Another option is using an eSIM card in Georgia instead of a physical SIM. An eSIM is a digital SIM profile that is downloaded to your phone.

eSIM is a good option for staying online during a trip to Georgia. There are several eSIM providers such as esimgeorgia.net and subscription plans; hence, it should not be difficult to find the most fitting one for you.

Get hassle-free data in Georgia for $27. Purchase an eSIM on esimgeorgia.net and instantly receive the activation QR code via email. No roaming charges with prepaid plans from 1-5GB valid for 3-30 days. Buy now for reliable connectivity during your trip!

Don't data diet, feast with esimgeorgia.net!
Buy my eSIM

6. Where to Buy a Georgia SIM Card?

You have two main options for purchasing your Georgia SIM card:

6.1. Buy eSIM online

If going for an eSIM, you would purchase it online before your trip and download to your phone. Providers like esimgeorgia.net allow you to buy Georgia eSIMs on website.

6.2. Buy a physical SIM Card

For a regular plastic SIM, you’ll need to buy it in person after arriving in Georgia. Here are some recommended spots:

  • Mobile provider stores – MagtiCom, Silknet, and Cellfie all have dedicated stores in major cities like Tbilisi. Staff can help get you set up.
  • Airports – Most Georgia airports have SIM card desks or vending machines. Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi airports sell SIM card at Georgia airports.
  • Hotels – Many hotels, hostels, and homestays also offer SIM sales to arriving guests.
  • Supermarkets – Some supermarkets like Carrefour will stock prepaid SIMs from Magti and Geocell.

When purchasing your Georgia SIM card, you may need to show your passport for identification. Also, confirm the provider has set up the data and activated the SIM for you.

cellfie georgia store
Cellfie Georgia store

7. How to Use Georgia SIM

Using your new Georgia SIM card is straightforward:

  1. Insert SIM – Shut down your phone, find the SIM slot, place the card carefully into it and push until it fits.
  2. Turn on device – Power phone back on. SIM may take a few minutes to activate.
  3. Top up – Use vouchers to add more data and call credits as needed during your trip.
  4. Access internet – You’ll now have mobile data access through the SIM to browse the web and use apps.
  5. Make calls – For local calls, always dial the full area code and number. Outgoing calls will deduct from your account balance.
  6. Use data sparingly – Whenever possible, consider using data sporadically; use hotels’ WiFi and refrain from downloading large volumes of data.
  7. Remove SIM – remove SIM so as not to pay unnecessary charges after departure.

Just take a couple of easy steps and voila, you will be able to use your Georgian SIM card to get cheap connectivity.

8. Best Mobile Operators for Georgia SIM Cards

However, you need to make up your mind and choose the best mobile operator by comparing your requirements and priorities. Nevertheless, the ideal mobile operator in Georgia depends on your necessities and preferences. However, Magticom (Magti) is well-known as the best overall operator versus Silknet (formerly its being Geocell) and Cellfie (formerly Beeline).

  • Magti – The largest service provider in Georgia. There are 4G and 5G networks that cover almost all of the major urban areas in the country. Additionally, they also have some of the highest data speeds in the country.
  • Silknet – The second largest operator, has a vast network in urban regions in Georgia. These provide competent prices and interesting data packages.
  • Cellfie – The third largest telecom firm in Georgia may also be suitable for low-budget travelers. However, the companies’ network is not as extensive as Silknet or Magti but prices are usually lower.

Here is a table summarizing the key features of each operator:

Operator Network coverage Data speeds Prices
Magti Wide 4G and 5G coverage Fastest data speeds Most expensive
Silknet Strong 4G coverage in urban areas Competitive prices Mid-range prices
Cellfie Smaller network Lower prices Cheapest prices

In the end, the best way to choose the appropriate mobile operator for yourself is by comparison of the various plans and tariffs and selection of the appropriate plan.

9. Tips for Saving Data for Georgia SIM Card

To help conserve your Georgia SIM data allowance and avoid going over your limit, here are some useful tips:

  • Use WiFi whenever available – At your hotel and cafes, reduce mobile data through WiFi. Preload Google Maps using in-room wifi.
  • Throttle streaming – Streaming video and music use data faster. Download content when on WiFi.
  • Disable auto-app updates – Stop apps updating in background which uses data. Update them manually when on WiFi.
  • Data-roaming off – Roaming out of Georgia is expensive. Keep data roaming off.
  • Keep an eye on usage – check your remaining data periodically and recharge wherever necessary.
  • Disable cellular data for heavy apps – Restrict background data of non-essential-apps while on the go, such as the social media.

Following these tips will help you save data on your Georgia SIM and stay within your allowance. Use WiFi whenever you can and try limit streaming. Also turn off data roaming.

10. FAQs about Georgia SIM Cards

Do I need to unlock my phone to use a Georgia SIM card?

Yes, your device needs to be network unlocked to use a foreign SIM. Contact your provider to arrange an unlock before traveling. iPhones from Verizon or AT&T work on Georgia networks.

How long does a Georgia tourist SIM card last?

SIM cards remain active for 6-12 months normally. Credit and data top-ups extend the validity period. Just use the SIM as long as you need it for your vacation.

Can I get a Georgia SIM card at the land borders?

Yes, SIMs are available at land border crossings with Armenia, Russia, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. Pick one up after passing through immigration and customs.

What’s the best Georgia SIM card for an iPhone?

Magti and Silknet(Geocell) SIMs work very well in iPhones. Cellfie(Beeline) also supports iPhones but has less 4G coverage. Get at least 5GB of data on your plan.

Do I need to show ID to buy a SIM card in Georgia?

Often yes, you may need to show your passport when purchasing a prepaid SIM at local providers and outlets. This is for identity verification.

11. Conclusion

You cannot miss having a Georgia SIM card on your trip. In addition, data prices are also not high for local SIMs. Also, these SIMs have nationwide reachability. Prepaid tourist SIMs may be bought from arrival airports as well as from mobile carrier stores. The leaders in this business area are Magti and Geocell.

Ensure that your device is unlocked before buying the SIM. Georgia prepaid SIM comes with Google Maps and social networking. Consider these tips if you want to minimize your expenditure and make the most of your SIM card in this beautiful country. Enjoy your travels in Georgia!