Wattay International Airport in Vientiane offers no free WiFi. Travelers can access the internet through the Business Lounge ($10) or the Internet Café in Departures. For better connectivity in Laos, consider purchasing a local SIM card at arrival counters or an eSIM from LaoseSIM before your trip, both offering more reliable and cost-effective solutions than the airport’s limited options.
I. Is There Free WiFi at Wattay Airport?
No, Wattay International Airport does not offer free public WiFi in its general terminal areas. Travelers need to use paid options if they require internet access while at the airport.
Be cautious of networks with names like “@Wattay_Free_WiFi” that may appear on your device. These unofficial networks typically require local phone verification or don’t function properly.
Two paid internet options are available:
- Business Lounge access ($10 USD)
- Internet Café (pay-per-use)
It’s recommended to download any essential information, maps, or entertainment before arriving at the airport while you still have reliable internet at your accommodation in Vientiane.
II. How to Access Internet at Wattay Airport
Wattay International Airport in Vientiane doesn’t offer free public WiFi, but travelers can get online through two paid options:
Business Lounge Access:
- Located on the 3rd floor of the International Terminal
- Costs $10 USD for full access
- Includes WiFi, refreshments, and comfortable workspaces
- Best option for longer waits or if you need to work
Internet Café:
- Found in the Departures area
- Pay-per-use pricing (typically by time increments)
- Provides desktop computers and sometimes limited WiFi
- Suitable for quick email checks and basic browsing
Both options are more reliable than trying to connect to unofficial networks that might appear on your device. For convenience, consider downloading essential information, maps, and entertainment before arriving at the airport.
Most travelers find the Business Lounge worth the cost, especially before international flights when you might spend several hours at the airport.
III. What to Expect: Speed, Security & Reliability
Unlike major Asian airports like Hong Kong or Bangkok, Wattay International Airport in Vientiane doesn’t offer free WiFi. All internet access requires payment, with two main options available:
| Feature | Business Lounge WiFi | Internet Café |
| Speed | Moderate (suitable for email, messaging, light work) | Slow to moderate |
| Security | Better than open networks | Public/shared PCs (lower security) |
| Best For | Short layovers, remote work | Quick browsing and email checks |
| Location | 3rd floor, International Terminal | Departures area |
The Business Lounge option provides a more secure connection where you can comfortably check sensitive information like banking or work accounts. The Internet Café is adequate for basic needs but avoid accessing important accounts on these shared computers.
⚠️ Remember to download essential information before arriving at the airport, as there is no complimentary WiFi throughout the terminal areas. Adjust your expectations and plan your digital needs accordingly.
IV. Best Alternatives to Airport WiFi
Since Wattay Airport doesn’t offer free WiFi, travelers need reliable alternatives to stay connected in Laos. Fortunately, several options provide better internet access than the limited paid services at the airport.
Local SIM Cards provide excellent connectivity at affordable prices. You can purchase these directly at counters in the airport arrival hall from major providers including Unitel, Lao Telecom, and TPlus. Most tourists find data packages starting around $5-10 with generous allowances. Remember to bring your passport, as registration is mandatory for all SIM cards in Laos.
eSIM Services offer a convenient solution if your device supports this technology (most newer iPhones, Google Pixels, and Samsung phones do). The major advantage is purchasing and activating your plan before arriving in Laos, ensuring you’re online immediately upon landing. LaoseSIM (laosesim.com) offers several affordable options:
- 5 days with 10GB for $5.50
- 10 days with 15GB for $6.90
- 15 days with 30GB for $12.90
These plans use the Unitel network, which provides excellent coverage throughout the country, including Vientiane and Savannakhet.
Mobile Roaming with your home carrier works instantly but often comes with significant costs. This option requires no setup, but check your provider’s international rates before travel to avoid bill shock. Some carriers offer daily fixed-rate packages that may be reasonable for very short visits.
For most travelers, a local SIM or eSIM provides the best balance of cost and convenience compared to the limited airport WiFi options.
V. FAQs
How much is the lounge with WiFi?
The Business Lounge costs USD $10 for full access. This fee includes not only WiFi but also refreshments and comfortable seating areas, making it suitable for longer waits.
Is there an internet café?
Yes, there is an Internet Café located in the Departures area. It operates on a pay-per-use basis, typically charging by time increments for access to desktop computers and sometimes limited WiFi.
Can I stream or work online?
Streaming and working online is possible in the Business Lounge, which offers moderate speeds adequate for email, messaging, and light work. The Internet Café has more limited capabilities with slower connections, making it less suitable for bandwidth-intensive activities.