Phone Credit Options At Belize's Airport

Belize is a small Central American country with a population of approximately 400,000 people of primarily mixed Mestizo, Creole, Mayan and European descent. The country has a standardised seven-digit phone numbering system and there are no city or area codes to dial from within Belize.

There are two mobile networks in Belize: DigiCell, a subsidiary and mobile division of the national carrier Belize Telemedia Limited, and Smart!, a newcomer to the market. Both DigiCell and Smart! networks offer 3G and 4G services and most provide a good signal in the main cities and tourist locations.

DigiCell SIM cards can be purchased in many places like convenience stores, or service stations. Smart! signs are less frequent, and their SIM cards are not sold at the airport. DigiCell SIM cards are sold at their desk at the airport.

DigiCell offers various prepaid plans, including data plans and bundle deals which offer a combination of calls, text, and data. Smart! also advertises a tourist SIM for travellers, with options including unlimited data.

The cost of a DigiCell SIM card is 22.50 BZD (11.15 USD) and comes with 10 BZD credit and 1 GB of data (valid for 10 days). Smart! SIM cards cost 15 BZD. Tourist SIM cards are sold from 20 BZD (9.90 USD) to 45 BZD (22.30 USD).

Phone credits are available at the airport from a shop called TC, located across the road from the terminal

Phone Credits in Belize's Airport

When purchasing a SIM card from TC, you will be presented with a list of prices for different plans and data options. The staff at TC can help you insert the SIM card into your phone, affix your personal SIM to the plastic card, and write down your Belizean mobile number. It is important to ensure that your phone is unlocked before using a local SIM card.

The cost of SIM cards and phone credits in Belize can vary depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Digi, formerly known as DigiCell, is the largest mobile operator in Belize and offers a range of prepaid plans with data, minutes, and SMS. Smart! is another popular option, especially among the youth, as it offers youth-specific postpaid plans. Both providers have stores outside of the airport where you can purchase SIM cards and top up your credit.

It is worth noting that US dollars are widely accepted in Belize, so you can use them to purchase phone credits and SIM cards. However, it is recommended to bring smaller bills, such as $1, $5, $10, and $20, as larger bills may be hard to cash in smaller villages or shops. Additionally, make sure that your bills are in good condition, as bills with any marks or tears may not be accepted.

Overall, by purchasing phone credits or a local SIM card from the TC shop at the airport or from providers' stores outside the airport, you can stay connected during your stay in Belize.

DigiCell SIM cards are available at the airport for BZ$45, including BZ$20 of calls

DigiCell is the cellular division of Belize Telemedia Limited, which used to have a monopoly on GSM cellular service in Belize. While there is now another operator, DigiCell remains the dominant provider in the country.

The DigiCell SIM card is a good choice for those seeking convenience and peace of mind. It can be purchased at the airport, so travellers can ensure they have a working connection before they set off on their travels. This is especially useful for those planning to hire a car, as it means they can have Google Maps ready to go.

The SIM card itself costs BZ$20, and comes with BZ$10 of credit. The initial activation costs BZ$45, which includes BZ$20 of calls. This means that travellers can get started with their DigiCell connection right away, without having to worry about topping up immediately.

The DigiCell SIM card offers flexibility, as it can be used with both GSM and CDMA systems. It is a good option for those with newer iPhones and many Android phones, which can make and receive calls across civilised areas around much of the globe.

For those staying in Belize City or heading to the Cayes, DigiCell SIM cards can also be purchased in town at supermarkets, post offices, or small retailers. However, many of these will be closed on Sundays, so it may be more convenient to purchase the SIM card at the airport.

DigiCell offers affordable packages for SIM card activation, with various prepaid plans to choose from. Calls within Belize are BZ50, and there is no charge for incoming calls. Travellers can buy subsequent minutes by topping up in grocery stores or on the DigiCell website.

The DigiCell SIM card is a straightforward and hassle-free option for staying connected in Belize. With its wide availability, competitive pricing, and inclusion of call credit, it is a convenient choice for travellers seeking a reliable connection during their trip.

DigiCell offers affordable packages for SIM card activation

DigiCell, a subsidiary of Belize Telemedia Limited, offers affordable packages for SIM card activation. With a DigiCell Tourist SIM, you can stay connected with family and friends during your travels in Belize. Here's everything you need to know about their SIM card activation packages:

Where to Buy:

DigiCell SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, in any Digi store, or from authorized dealers and agents across Belize. This includes convenience stores, service stations, and Digi branch offices in major towns.

Cost:

The Digi Tourist SIM costs $20 USD or $40 Belize Dollars, and it comes with Talk, Text, and Data allowances on their 4G LTE Network. The SIM is valid for 21 days, and the allowances are valid for 10 days from activation.

Top-Ups:

You can top up your DigiCell SIM card at any Digi store or online. Top-ups are available in various denominations, such as $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.

Calling Rates:

Calls within the Digi network are $0.53 per minute, while calls to other numbers are $0.56 per minute.

Data Plans:

DigiCell offers various prepaid data plans to suit your needs. You can choose from different data allowances, such as 165MB up to 32GB.

Other Benefits:

DigiCell's Tourist SIM allows you to talk, text, and use data internationally. You can also take advantage of their Double Up Promotions, which offer 100% more credit on top-ups during promotional days.

Device Requirements:

To use the DigiCell Tourist SIM, you will need an unlocked device.

Registration:

Don't forget that Belize has a mandatory registration scheme for mobile users. You will need to provide an ID or passport when purchasing the SIM card.

With DigiCell's affordable packages, staying connected during your travels in Belize is easy and convenient. Whether you're exploring the tropical paradise of Belize or navigating the roads, DigiCell has you covered with their Tourist SIM and various prepaid plans.

Belize Telemedia Limited and Smart! are the two mobile networks in Belize

Belize has two mobile networks: Belize Telemedia Limited and Smart! (also known as Smart Speednet). Belize Telemedia Limited is the country's major telecommunications company and is government-owned. It offers its cellular service under the "Digicell" brand, which has a virtual monopoly on GSM cellular service in Belize. DigiCell offers affordable packages for SIM card activation, and local prepaid phone cards can be bought in various denominations. Calls within Belize on this network cost BZ$0.50, and there is no charge for incoming calls.

Smart! is the second mobile network in Belize and is a private company. It offers a similar service to DigiCell but uses the CDMA network spectrum. Smart! offers slightly lower prices compared to DigiCell.

Both networks offer eSIMs to their customers, and both began offering 4G devices and phones at discounted prices in 2016.

If you are travelling to Belize and want to use a local SIM card, you can buy one at the airport or in any Digi branch office.

Cell phone plans in Belize are either post-paid or pre-paid. Post-paid plans are attractive to business people, Belizeans, or expatriates as the cell number is permanent. If you lose your phone or SIM card, you can get a replacement SIM for a nominal charge with your same number.

Local SIM cards are a cheaper option than international roaming

Local SIM Cards in Belize

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Belize

You can purchase a SIM card from either of Belize's two mobile networks: DigiCell or Smart! Both offer 3G and 4G services and provide good signal coverage in major cities and tourist locations.

DigiCell SIM cards can be bought at various locations, including convenience stores and service stations. Smart! SIM cards are less widely available, but can be purchased at the main international airport and in some stores in Belize City.

SIM Card Costs

The cost of a SIM card in Belize depends on the provider and the amount of data and call/text allowances included.

DigiCell offers various prepaid plans, with prices ranging from $0.53 per minute for calls to other Digi customers, to $0.56 per minute for calls to other networks. They also offer bundle deals that include a combination of calls, texts, and data.

Smart! offers tourist SIM cards with unlimited data and varying allowances for calls and texts. Their plans range from $20 for $11 worth of calls, 25 SMS, and unlimited data for 24 hours, to $45 for $35 worth of calls, 130 SMS, and unlimited data for 10 days.

Topping Up Your Credit

If you need to top up your credit while in Belize, there are several options available. You can purchase prepaid cards from showrooms or authorised agents, or top up online using a credit card. You can also visit a store or agent in person and provide your phone number and desired top-up amount.

Tips for Using Your Local SIM Card in Belize

• Ensure your phone is unlocked before inserting a local SIM card.
• Adjust your data usage settings to avoid running out of credit unexpectedly.
• Set your cloud backup services to only backup when connected to WiFi.
• Disable automatic downloads for apps and podcasts when using your local SIM card.
• Download offline Google Maps before your trip to avoid using data for navigation.

By following these tips and purchasing a local SIM card, you can stay connected during your time in Belize without incurring high international roaming charges.

Frequently asked questions