travel usa sim

Best prepaid SIM Cards for U.S. travelers and tourists 2024

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At a glance

Best overall, best for short stays, best budget, best non-mvno, best prepaid data plan, best data-only plan.

At a glance 1. Best overall 2. Best for short stays 3. Best budget 4. Best non-MVNO 5. Best prepaid data plan 6. Best data-only plan FAQ

Whether you're going on a quick vacation or moving for good, it's never a bad idea to invest in one of the best prepaid SIM cards so you can stay in touch with friends and family back home. If you're having trouble choosing among all of the options that are out there, fear not: we've gathered all of the best prepaid SIM cards for travelers so you don't have to worry.

As long as your Android phone is unlocked for international use and compatible with local networks, such as T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T, ordering a SIM card online or through a nearby retailer should be simple.

Keep reading for all of the best prepaid SIM cards for U.S. travelers and tourists alike. If you want to go even deeper, you can also check out our guide to the best MVNO carriers or save some cash with the best MVNO deals of the month.

From $15 at Mint Mobile

Soon to be owned by T-Mobile, a Mint Mobile SIM is a perfect choice if you're staying in the U.S. for three months or longer, with unlimited talk/text, a mobile hotspot, and more.

1. Mint Mobile

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

Mint Mobile is one of the best MVNO carriers today and uses T-Mobile's 4G LTE and 5G network, making it a great prepaid SIM card to get if you plan on staying in the U.S. for at least three months. As we found in our Mint Mobile review , Mint's 5G connection is strong, and its phone compatibility is one of the best in the country.

With Mint, you need to purchase at least three months of service upfront. After that, the best deals are offered when you sign up for six months or 12. For three months on the unlimited plan, you'll pay $90 and get unlimited talk, text, and data, 10GB of mobile hotspot, and free calls to Mexico and Canada. Calling to other international locations is available at a per-minute rate but if you use an app to call your friends such as WhatsApp or Line, you'll only need data.

Joining Mint Mobile is easy, and you can even sign up for a trial online to get a free Mint Mobile SIM card . It's especially easy if your phone is eligible for an eSIM since you can then activate the SIM straight from your phone and later continue your service if you like it. You can also get a Mint SIM card from Target, Best Buy, Walmart, or Amazon.

2. Ultra Mobile 3GB

Ultra Mobile is an MVNO on T-Mobile's network, meaning that you'll get great T-Mobile coverage at a lower price. Our Ultra Mobile review showed strong coverage and speeds. Though Ultra Mobile offers its own set of prepaid plans, the Ultra Mobile 3GB plan is a perfect fit for anyone visiting the U.S. for a month or less.

This is a more traditional SIM and after 30 days, the plan will expire, making it great for users who just wanted simple talk and text to a wide range of destinations and don't need a lot of data on their travels. For $19 with the SIM kit included, you'll get unlimited talk and text to over 90 countries worldwide, plus free Wi-Fi calling and up to 4GB of 5G/LTE data, meaning you should have no issue reaching friends and family back home.

3. Lycamobile

Lycamobile is unique because it's a global MVNO, and in the U.S., it's an MVNO on T-Mobile's network. To check whether your phone is compatible, the easiest thing to do is type in your IMEI number on Lycamobile's website, but most GSM unlocked devices should work.

Lycamobile offers several plans to pick from and really caters to those who need unlimited nationwide talk and text and international calling and texting to 85+ countries. Each plan includes these features at no additional charge, making this the perfect plan if you're someone who wants to be able to call abroad whenever you want.

When it comes to data, you have multiple options starting at just 250MB and going up to 60GB. The cheapest 250MB plan costs $15, while the top unlimited data plan costs $59. The 2GB plan is only available to new customers so if you're already signed up, this plan will come with 1GB of data. Each plan includes slightly different bonus features, so you'll have to pick what makes the most sense for you.

Fortunately, Lycamobile SIM cards are pretty easy to get a hold of. They're sold online on Lycamobile's website and Amazon, but you'll also find Lycamobile SIM cards in several retailers, including 7-Eleven, pharmacies, local convenience stores, etc. When in doubt, you can also use the online store locator to find the nearest retailer near you.

4. AT&T Prepaid

Known for its great coverage, AT&T is also an excellent carrier to consider getting a SIM card from when visiting the U.S. and one of the best prepaid phone plans . It tends to have better coverage in rural areas than other carriers, so it's also a great option if you plan to be on the road a lot. For $30 (plus taxes and fees), AT&T Prepaid will get you 5GB of high-speed data, which is then throttled to 128Kbps. As always, you should check your device's compatibility with AT&T online before signing up.

On this plan, you're able to use your mobile hotspot, and you can text to more than 230 countries. You'll also be able to talk, text, and use data in Mexico and Canada (though data speeds may be slow). And if you think you'll need more than 5GB of data, you can always upgrade to a 15GB prepaid plan for $40, which is a great deal and definitely worth considering.

5G connected on Zenfone 8 with Android 12

5. T-Mobile Prepaid

T-Mobile not only offers some of the best cell phone plans you could get today, but it also has an excellent prepaid option that will suit most travelers and tourists needs when visiting the U.S. Because T-Mobile's network has improved vastly over the past few years and its 5G network has some of the most expansive coverage and fastest speeds in the nation, you'll likely get excellent service with T-Mobile when traveling to major cities during your stay.

There are four T-Mobile prepaid plans from which to choose, though the ideal plan for most visitors will be T-Mobile's 10GB prepaid plan for $40 per month. This plan includes unlimited domestic talk and text, up to 10GB of high-speed data, free mobile hotspot data, and a music unlimited feature so that any music you stream won't eat up your data. If you want to add international calling, you can do so for $15 extra, or if you're traveling to Mexico or Canada for a few days, you can add talk, text, and 5GB of data to use over there for an extra $5.

6. Cricket Wireless

If you don't think you'll need minutes during your stay in the U.S. and really just want data, you could consider a data-only plan from Cricket Wireless , which is an MVNO on AT&T's network. For $35, you'll get 20GB to use during the month, or for $55, you'll get 100GB.

Again, this plan doesn't come with any minutes, so you'll have to be sure you're fine using apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Skype to connect with family or friends. It does come with text and picture messages across the U.S., as well as usage in Mexico and Canada if you plan on visiting those countries as well. It's the perfect plan for anyone who will be spending lots of time on the road and wants to be able to stream, download, and do some high-speed browsing.

You can get a Cricket SIM card by going into a Cricket Wireless authorized retailer, which you can locate with Cricket's online store locator. Other popular retailers such as Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart will also sell Universal SIM card activation kits for Cricket Wireless. The good news is that if you do end up wanting minutes, you can always switch to another one of Cricket's plans with the same SIM card.

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Which prepaid SIM card is best for you?

Why you can trust Android Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

You really can't go wrong with a prepaid SIM card on T-Mobile or AT&T's network while visiting the U.S., and the right fit for you depends on the length of your stay and whether you need features like being able to call back home. If you're traveling for only three weeks or less, the Ultra Mobile 3GB plan is the best choice and offers just enough talk, text, and data to stay connected.

On the other hand, if you'll be in the U.S. for a few months, Mint Mobile will give you the best multiple-month value. And if you're somewhere in between, a prepaid plan from either T-Mobile or AT&T is easy, reliable, and guaranteed to give you great coverage.

Should you use your current carrier's add-ons?

Many carriers have partnerships with international carriers to offer greater service to their own customers. Luckily, this often goes both directions and means there may be a plan add-on that can give you plenty of data without needing to set up and activate a new SIM. While these travel add-ons can be quite pricey, the simplicity of this option will make it worth it to many people. It also gives you the chance to have a connection if you're waiting for a connecting flight in another country.

What about eSIM apps?

Another emerging option is eSIM apps. These apps can use your phone's built-in eSIM slot to quickly activate and pay for a phone plan without needing to remove your old SIM or worry about shipping a physical SIM in the first place. Airalo , for example, allows customers to buy as little as 1GB for a week. If you just need enough data to get around in a new city, this is a good option. It works with Google Pay, credit card, PayPay, and even Alipay.

If you have an iPhone, there's even an official T-Mobile Prepaid eSIM app that accepts credit card payments from a number of countries. Regrettably, this app isn't available on Android though there are still other eSIM providers on the platform.

Just be sure to confirm compatibility before taking off. Still, there are other apps available on Android that offer solid deals on data without contacts or physical SIMs necessary.

MVNO deals: Mint Mobile | Visible | Boost | Tello | Cricket

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After almost a decade of working in the e-commerce space, Patrick Farmer (he/him) began his career at Android Central as a Deals and Commerce Writer before moving into a new role as AC's eCommerce Editor in 2023. When he's not hunting down the best deals and offering shopping advice for our readers, you'll often find him listening to music, camping out at a brewery, or treating his cat like a human child.

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The best prepaid sim card data plans for usa travel.

What you need to know about buying a prepaid data plan for visiting the USA.

phones and technology

Having fast and reliable high-speed data for your phone is essentially a requirement when you travel to the USA but visitors are often surprised that prepaid SIM data plans aren’t as widely available or as affordable as in their home country.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about buying a SIM Card in the US and how to buy the best US prepaid mobile data plans at the best price.

Important Note About Prepaid SIM Card Data Plans in the US

Getting a prepaid data plan in America is a frustrating experience—especially for international visitors. Mobile service is generally much more expensive in the US than in the rest of the world so tourists are often surprised when they arrive expecting easy access to cheap data.

Prepaid data plans aren’t common in the US because most Americans have year-long phone service contracts. To make things more complicated, many mobile carriers also require that you use a US credit card if you’re buying a month-to-month plan.

That’s why many tourists have issues when it comes to buying a data plan when they arrive in the US because they have to go out of their way to find prepaid service in the US.

Even major airports like New York’s JFK have very few options and the ones you’ll find are costly and not convenient.

I’ll cover all this more in-depth later in this article but I wanted to get this out of the way up front.

In short, I highly recommend buying a data plan before arriving in the US if you don’t want to deal with the hassle. Check out SimOptions (physical SIM cards and eSIM plans) or Holafly (eSIM only) for a few different options—I recommend buying an eSIM data plan if your phone is compatible.

How To Buy A Prepaid Data Plan For The US

You have three main options when it comes to buying a data plan for the US:

Prepurchase an eSIM Data Plan (Easiest)

The easiest way to buy a data plan for the US is to buy an eSIM data plan because you can activate it instantly so you don’t have to pay for shipping. All you have to do is buy the service and then activate it once you’re in the US. As an added bonus, using an eSIM allows you to keep your original phone number active on your phone.

I’ve personally used both SimOptions and Holafly in the past to buy international data plans. You can also read my guide to the best prepaid USA eSIM data plans .

Not sure what an eSIM is? Here’s a quick video showing you how easy eSIMs are:

Not all phones are eSIM compatible (although most modern phones are compatible) so keep that in mind.

Prepurchase a SIM Data Plan (Easy)

If you want to sort out your data plan prior to your trip, I recommend buying your SIM card before you leave so you’ll have data as soon as you arrive (i.e. no tracking down a SIM card once you arrive in the US).

The main downside is that you’ll have to wait for the SIM card to arrive and pay for shipping so it might not be a great option if you need your SIM Card right away.

Wait Until You’re In The US To Buy A SIM Card (Most Difficult)

The third option is to wait until you arrive in the US to buy your data plan. As I mentioned earlier, prepaid data plans aren’t very popular in the US so you’ll have to go out of your way to find them.

I’ll cover this in more depth further down in this article.

The Best Prepaid SIM Card and eSIM Data Plan You Can Buy Before Arriving In The US

Here’s a list of both prepaid eSIM data plans and physical SIM card data plans that will work in the US.

I’ve tried to list both pros and cons of each plan so spend a little time reading up on each because some have a few quirks.

Holafly US Data Plans (Unlimited Data eSIM)

Holafly is a new data-only eSIM startup that I’ve personally used on a recent trip and found worked surprisingly well (read my Holafly eSIM Review to learn more).

Unlike other companies, Holafly’s plans give you unlimited data (they will throttle your data if you use excessive data but this won’t be an issue for most users) and their plans run from 5 to 90 days. Holafly also connects to both the AT&T and T-Mobile networks—which are two of the largest mobile carriers in the US.

In short, if you don’t want to worry about monitoring your data usage while traveling then Holafly is your best option.

5 Days: $19
10 Days: $34
15 Days: $47
20 Days: $54
30 Days: $64
60 Days: $84
90 Days: $99
Service Speed: 4G/LTE
Calls: None
Texts/SMS: None
Tethering: No

Three 30-Day Pass (Digital eSIM Plan)

Plan Specs:

PRICE: $35
DATA: 20GB
INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?: NO
CREDIT VALID FOR: 30 Days

If your phone is eSIM compatible, the Three 30-Day Pass is hard to beat for the price and data allowance. This data plan gives you 20GB of data for $35 and it’s valid for a month.

And since this is an eSIM, you get instant delivery via email and you don’t have to pay for shipping.

Smart Traveller eSIM (Digital eSIM Plan)

PRICE: $18
DATA: 6GB
CREDIT VALID FOR: 10 Days

The Smart Traveller eSIM is a good budget option for shorter trips since it’s only valid for 10 days. If you’re visiting for longer than 10 days, it makes sense to go with the Three 30-Day Pass for $35.

Orange Holiday World (Physical SIM Card)

PRICE: $50
DATA: 10GB
USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?: Yes
CREDIT VALID FOR: 14 Days

The Orange Holiday World is a very popular choice for travelers for a few different reasons.

First, it’s run by Orange—the largest mobile carrier in Europe and they’ve partnered with major US mobile carriers so the service tends to be better than no-name SIM data plans.

Second, the Orange Holiday World plan includes 10GB of 4G/LTE data in the US. This plan also works in Canada and Mexico if those happen to be part of your trip.

Third, there is no registration needed—simply install the SIM and you’re ready to go.

The main downside is that the data plan only lasts for 14 days so it’s not ideal for longer trips but you can top up the card one time for €29 to get another 14 days of service with an additional 10GB of data.

Three PAYG MBB 12GB (Physical SIM Card)

PRICE: $60
DATA: 12GB
USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?: NO
CREDIT VALID FOR: 1 Year

The Three UK PYAG MBB is another popular SIM data plan option thanks to its 12GB of data for $60. It doesn’t allow data tethering and you can use it with a pocket WIFI. This card is valid for a year after activation so it’s a nice option for longer visits to the US.

Three PAYG MBB 24GB (Physical SIM Card)

PRICE: $80
DATA: 24GB

The Three UK PAYG MBB 24GB data plan gives you 24GB of mobile data for $80 so this is a good option for heavy data users. If you have a pocket WIFI, this can also be a good option for groups traveling together so you can split data over multiple phones.

How To Buy A Prepaid Data Plan In The US

Most prepaid data plans offered by US carriers are billed on a month-to-month basis so if you don’t cancel the plan you’ll be charged when the new month starts. Because of this, many mobile companies require that you have a US credit card.

Verizon Prepaid Data Plans

Verizon of the largest mobile provider in the US and their prepaid plans start at $40/month for 5GB of data. Verizon is also the most expensive option. Visit the Verizon website to learn more.

Verizon also has a new budget service called Visible but you’ll need a US credit card and only certain phones work on their network (visit the Visible phone compatibility checker to see if your phone works).

T-Mobile Prepaid US Data Plans

T-Mobile offers a monthly prepaid data plan that starts at $40/month (not including taxes and fees—a $10 SIM starter kit may be required). The $40/month plan gets you 10GB of data but the $50/month plan has unlimited data. Click here to visit the T-Mobile website to learn more.

AT&T Wireless Prepaid Data Plans

AT&T Wireless has prepaid data plans that start at $30/month for 5BG of data. Visit the AT&T website to learn more.

Google Fi Prepaid Data Plans

Google Fi has a monthly plan and a pay-as-you-go plan. The monthly plan has unlimited data for $50/month and the pay-as-you-go is $20+$10 for every 10GB of data. Visit the Google Fi website to learn more.

Straight Talk Wireless Prepaid

Straight Talk Wireless is a budget carrier that’s mainly sold at Walmart stores. The main problem is that Walmarts are generally located outside large cities so you’ll need a car to reach the store. You can also have the card shipped to a US address.

Get More Budget Travel Tips For The USA

Here are a few articles to help you visit New York City:

The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To New York City
Best Hostels in NYC
The Best Things To Do In NYC
Best Cheap Restaurants In New York City
How Much To Budget For Visiting NYC
The Best Travel Shoes
The Best Travel Backpacks and The Best Travel Backpacks for Women

Traveling to Europe too? Check out my guide on how to use your phone in Europe and our guide to the best SIM Cards and Data Plans for Europe . If you have a newer phone, check out our guide to the best Prepaid eSIM Data Plans for Europe .

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Travel Sims

Best Tourist Sim Cards in USA in 2024

If you’re planning a trip to the USA, having a sim card is essential for staying connected. With access to the internet while traveling, exploring new cities becomes effortless. Whether you’re searching for the finest dining options, navigating to your accommodation, booking a taxi, or sharing photos with your loved ones, having internet access on the go is extremely convenient.

While roaming is always an option, international fees can quickly accumulate, making it more cost-effective to opt for an eSIM or a local sim card that offers local phone rates. Fortunately, obtaining either an eSIM or a local sim card in the USA is a straightforward process.

To help you make the best choice, this guide provides all the information you need, including current pricing and the top recommended sim card for your needs.

Best sim card in usa for tourists.

Mobile plans in the US are expensive and travellers are likely to get a bit of a shock when they arrive. You’ll basically have three options: AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon who each offer similar prepaid phone plans.

The best physical sim card in the USA is the T-Mobile prepaid sim card combined with one of their simple prepaid phone plans . The cheapest option is the 10GB plan for $40 USD which also includes unlimited calls and texts. However, if you’re visiting America for a while I would usually recommend the $50 USD plan which is identical but includes unlimited data.

The sim card is usually free when you buy a plan, but there is a chance you’ll be required to buy the sim card for $10 USD.

In terms of network coverage, all three mobile network operators have very extensive networks and extremely fast internet speeds so you should choose the operator based on price and the proximity of a store. On that note, I recommend seeking out an official T-Mobile store to purchase your sim card. They’ll help to set you up properly.

With that said, I don’t actually recommend buying a physical sim card in the US. Airalo’s USA eSim is much better value and runs across the T-Mobile and Verizon networks so your coverage will be at least as good as if you went with any of the local sim card operators.

For most travellers I recommend the 10GB data plan which costs just $26 USD – almost half as much as buying a physical sim card in a store! Which is crazy considering eSims are better than physical sim cards in the first place. If 10GB isn’t enough data for you, you can buy 20GB for $42 USD which is still cheaper.

Or, if you’re a budget-oriented traveller, the 5GB plan costs only $16 USD. Just make sure to use the free wifi which can be found all over the main cities.

Pretty much all phones these days support eSims, including any iPhone produced after 2018. All you need to do is buy the eSim online here before you travel to America. The eSim will self-activate when you arrive in the United States of America. You won’t need to visit a store or do anything.

USA Sim Card Prices

A Tourist Sim Card in USA costs $50 USD in April 2024, however, the exact price will often depend on the store you visit and the plan you choose.

Alternatively, an eSim in USA will cost between $4.50 USD and $42 USD. This, again, depends on how much data you require and which eSim provider you choose.

I generally recommend this Airalo plan for most tourists visiting USA which includes 10GB of data which is valid for 30 days and costs $26 USD.

USA Sim Card Providers

In the United States, there are three main SIM card providers that dominate the market – T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. T-Mobile is known for its extensive coverage and affordable plans, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious customers. With its wide range of options, AT&T offers excellent network speeds and reliable signal strength, making it a preferred choice for those who prioritize performance. Verizon, on the other hand, boasts unparalleled coverage and a reputation for exceptional service quality, appealing to customers in more remote areas. All three providers offer various data plans, international roaming options, and competitive pricing, ensuring customers have a range of choices to suit their needs and preferences.

T-Mobile Tourist Sim

T-Mobile is a major telecommunications company in the USA that offers great options for tourists with their sim cards. Their tourist sim cards provide unlimited talk, text, and data across the United States, allowing visitors to stay connected throughout their trip. With affordable prices, excellent coverage, and 5G capabilities, T-Mobile ensures seamless communication for tourists. Their user-friendly packages and easy activation make them a preferred choice for travelers exploring the USA.

T-Mobile USA Tourist Sim Price

The price of a T-Mobile tourist sim card in USA is $50 USD.

The plan offered by T-Mobile stores includes unlimited 5G data + unlimited calls and texts valid for 1 month.

AT&T Tourist Sim

AT&T is a leading telecommunications company in the USA that offers Tourist SIM cards for international travelers. These SIM cards provide visitors with reliable network coverage, high-speed data, and unlimited talk and text capabilities. With easy activation and flexible plans, tourists can stay connected throughout their trip. AT&T’s Tourist SIM cards also provide access to numerous AT&T Wi-Fi hotspots across the country, ensuring seamless connectivity during their stay.

AT&T USA Tourist Sim Price

The price of a AT&T tourist sim card in USA is $65 USD.

The plan offered by AT&T stores offers unlimited 5G data + unlimited calls + unlimited texts valid for 1 month.

Verizon Tourist Sim

Verizon, a leading telecommunications company in the USA, offers tourist SIM cards for visitors looking for seamless connectivity during their trip. These SIM cards provide tourists with reliable coverage across the country, allowing them to easily access the internet, make calls, and send messages. With competitive pricing and various data options, Verizon ensures travelers can stay connected and share their experiences effortlessly while exploring the beautiful destinations in the United States.

Verizon USA Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Verizon tourist sim card in USA is $40 USD.

The plan offered by Verizon stores includes 5GB 5G data valid for 1 month.

How to Get a Sim Card in USA

Identify mobile providers: T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon are your best options in USA.

Find your nearest store: Locate a store or retailer by searching on Google Maps for your nearest store or asking at your hotel reception. I’ve never had issues finding a store as they can usually be found in major cities, shopping centers, or tourist areas. If possible, I always recommend to to avoid airports and head in to an official store in the city.

Bring the necessary documents: It is always a good idea to carry your passport or identification documents for sim card registration purposes. We’ve found most providers will need to confirm your identity to provide a sim card and it can be a major hassle to head to a store only to have to come back again later with your passport.

Choose your plan: Either request the plan you are after or consult with the staff in the store to select the right plan for you. My recommendations at the beginning of this guide are a good starting point, but the staff will usually be able to suggest the best option.

Pay and activate your card: Pay for the SIM card and plan, and the staff will activate it for you.

Test: It’s always a good idea to check that you can access the internet before you leave the store. I always search for something on Google then refresh my Instagram feed to check it’s working fine.

Where to Get a Sim Card in USA

At the airport.

Buying a prepaid sim card for USA at the airport is usually considered the most convenient option for travellers arriving by plane.

However, airport stores selling sim cards are almost guaranteed to charge inflated prices, so if you are a cost-conscious traveller then you should definitely buy your sim card from a store in the city center.

In addition to this, we would argue that buying physical sim cards at all aren’t particularly convenient now that most people use esim compatible phones. If you are looking for the most convenient option, then buying an esim before you arrive or with the airport wifi is much easier and will save you having to queue up or communicate with staff.

If you must purchase a sim card at the airport in USA then you will be in luck. All major international airports in USA have stores selling sim cards. Despite the prices being higher than normal, the staff are knowledgable and will be able to get you set up with the correct sim card relatively quickly.

If you want to avoid the inflated sim card prices you’ll find at the airport and your phone isn’t esim compatible, then you’re going to need to head in to a store to buy your sim card.

I recommend visiting one of the official retail stores of the mobile internet operators such as T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon. Your best option is to enter their names into Google Maps and find the branch closest to your hotel or accommodation. Typically the staff in the official stores in USA are knowledgable and helpful which means you can ensure you’ll walk away with a functioning sim card.

Despite this, it’s always a good idea to check your internet is working before you leave the store by loading a Google search results page and your preferred social media app. You should also ensure you always bring your passport with you when purchasing a sim card in case they need to register it.

If you like to be prepared and would prefer to arrive in USA with your sim card all sorted and your phone ready to connect to the internet immediately then you should look into purchasing a sim card online.

The first option is to buy your sim card in advance via SimOptions, which is a company that will prepare and ship a sim card directly to your door. It’s a reliable and effective service, but with the invention of eSims it’s becoming obsolete.

The better option is to purchase an eSim online. We’ve written more on that below!

An eSim is a digital version of a traditional sim card and is most likely the future of connectivity for mobile devices. The convenience of no longer visiting a store, handing over your passport and purchasing a physical sim card is quickly making physical sim cards obsolete in favour of eSims.

We recommend Airalo’s eSim when travelling to USA. The Airalo USA eSim offers fast internet speeds, wide coverage and extremely competitive prices making it a far more compelling option than purchasing a physical sim card from any of the local sim card providers.

In order to get set up with an Airalo eSim , all you need to do is visit Airalo here and purchase the eSim online (the $26 USD plan is suitable for most travellers). Once you’ve purchased the sim card Airalo will email you instructions and a QR code. Following these instructions should take just a couple of minutes, then you’ll have a sim card in USA without having to venture outside.

Our preferred eSim provider in USA is Airalo . We used them, alongside a local sim card on another device, for our most recent trip to USA and found the service to be equal to the local sim card but without the hassle of acquiring a sim card in a store.

Airalo’s USA eSim uses the T-Mobile and Verizon networks to provide data and connect users to the internet. You can expect very good coverage and reliability with the T-Mobile and Verizon networksnetwork as they are amongst the best mobile internet operators in USA.

Here are the plans and prices for Airalo’s USA eSim:

1GB data valid for 7 days – Price: $4.50 USD 2GB data valid for 15 days – Price: $8 USD 3GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $11 USD 5GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $16 USD 10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $26 USD 20GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $42 USD

For most travellers we recommend the 10GB data plan for $26 USD which is valid for 30 days. Some travellers may prefer a larger plan, whilst travellers visiting for just a couple of days may be fine with a smaller plan.

Holafly USA

An alternative eSim provider we can recommend is Holafly.

Holafly’s eSim is a suitable option for travellers who require large amounts of data, such as digital nomads and people who work online while they travel. All of Holafly’s USA eSims offer unlimited data.

Holafly’s USA eSim uses the AT&T / T-Mobilenetwork to provide data and connect users to the internet. This network will provide reliable speeds and coverage while in USA

Here are the plans and prices for Holafly’s USA eSim:

Unlimited data valid for 5 days – Price: $19 USD Unlimited data valid for 7 days – Price: $27 USD Unlimited data valid for 10 days – Price: $34 USD Unlimited data valid for 15 days – Price: $47 USD Unlimited data valid for 20 days – Price: $54 USD Unlimited data valid for 30 days – Price: $64 USD Unlimited data valid for 60 days – Price: $84 USD Unlimited data valid for 90 days – Price: $99 USD

What is an eSim?

An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM, is a virtual SIM card integrated directly into a device like a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike physical SIM cards, it doesn’t require insertion or removal from the device.

Instead, the eSIM is part of the device’s hardware and can be programmed and enabled remotely by a mobile network operator. This offers users the convenience of quickly switching between different mobile networks or plans without physically changing SIM cards.

eSIM technology offers travelers and individuals who frequently switch networks or travel internationally, greater flexibility, ease, and convenience. It eliminates the need to purchase and insert physical SIM cards, making it simpler to manage multiple mobile connections on one device.

To activate an eSIM, users can either scan a QR code provided by their network operator or manually enter activation details. Once activated, the device can easily connect to the preferred network and access voice, data, and messaging services just like with a regular SIM card.

Why Use an eSim?

– Using an eSIM offers convenience as there is no need to physically insert or remove a SIM card when switching networks or plans. – eSIM allows for dual SIM functionality, meaning two active mobile numbers can be used on the same device. – The embedded nature of eSIMs saves space within devices, allowing for smaller designs or the use of extra components. – Activation and management of mobile plans can be done remotely over the air with eSIMs, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards or store visits. – eSIM technology is gaining support from more mobile networks and service providers, ensuring access to new services and offerings in the future. – Overall, eSIM technology provides flexibility, convenience, and future-proofing for mobile connectivity.

eSim Supported Phones

eSIM technology is becoming increasingly popular and is supported by a growing number of smartphones and other devices. Here are some examples of eSIM-compatible phones:

Apple iPhone series (iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, etc.): Apple was one of the early adopters of eSIM technology and offers support for eSIM on various iPhone models.

Google Pixel series (Pixel 3, Pixel 4, Pixel 5, etc.): Google’s Pixel smartphones also support eSIM functionality, allowing users to activate and use eSIMs.

Samsung Galaxy series (Galaxy S22, Galaxy Note 20, etc.): Many of Samsung’s flagship devices now come with eSIM support, enabling users to utilize eSIM technology.

OnePlus devices (OnePlus 7, OnePlus 8, etc.): OnePlus has included eSIM support in some of its smartphone models, offering users the flexibility of using eSIMs.

Motorola Razr (2020): The latest iteration of the iconic Motorola Razr features eSIM compatibility, enabling users to use eSIMs for cellular connectivity.

These are just a few examples, and the list of eSIM-compatible phones continues to expand as more manufacturers embrace this technology. There’s a very strong chance your phone supports eSims so if you’re unsure we recommend looking it up on our list of eSim supported phones .

How to Use an eSim

Using an eSim is new for many travellers, however, the good news is it’s surprisingly easy to get set up – even for the technologically challenged!

Here’s a general guide on how to use an eSIM:

Check eSIM Compatibility: Ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality. Many newer smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and other devices are eSIM compatible including all iPhones produced since 2018.

Obtain an eSIM: There are multiple ways to acquire an eSIM. You can purchase an eSIM online from a provider like Airalo (which we recommend) or directly from a mobile network operator. Some devices also allow you to scan a QR code provided by your carrier to download the eSIM profile.

Activate the eSIM: Your eSim provider will send you instructions to activate the sim. This will usually involve scanning a QR code, entering an activation code, or downloading the eSIM profile directly onto your device.

Set up the eSIM: Once activated, your device will guide you through the eSIM setup process. This typically involves selecting the eSIM as your preferred mobile plan, configuring settings like data roaming, and entering any necessary authentication details.

Enjoy the Connection: Once the eSIM is set up, you can use it as you would with a physical SIM card. Make calls, send messages, browse the internet, and use data services as needed. You can also switch between eSIM profiles if you have multiple eSIMs installed on your device.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. I've travelled all around the world, using and testing countless travel sim cards along the way. I'm the founder of and writer for Travel Sim Expert where I write guides to help travellers stay connected all around the world.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. Travel Sim Expert is a blog dedicated to helping you find the best sim card for you, no matter where you are or what your budget is.

Learn More About Me

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Best E-Sim Cards for Traveling to the USA in 2024

Are you planning your trip to the United States and looking for an e-sim card to stay connected? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for traveling to the USA.

In this guide you can find a comparison of the best e-sim cards for the United States, up to date prices as per April 2024, all the USA e-sim card specifications, my recommendation and the advantages and disadvantages of e-sim cards. I will show you where and when to order an e-sim card, a comparison with local prepaid sim cards and of course links to directly order your e-sim card for the United States on the internet.

Already since 2012 I am a full time nomadic travel blogger traveling the world continuously and I constantly get to different countries. Pretty much every week I need to look for a new sim card. In 2022 I visited for example 62 different countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many different prepaid and e-sim cards I used over the last two years.

In the past I used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use e-sim cards for staying connected when traveling abroad.

Helping fellow travelers to save money while traveling the world is one of the reasons I started this travel blog. Providing essential travel tips is how I started writing sim card guides from every country I visited and now on Traveltomtom you can already find more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world.

Of course I also wrote a complete guide for buying a tourist sim card for traveling to USA in 2024 and you can also find guides for buying a sim card on arrival at Miami Airport , Newark Airport , New York JFK Airport .

Traveltomtom also wrote specific guides for buying e-sim cards for: Canada , Turkey , France , Spain , Greece , Germany , Portugal , Italy , Europe , Turkey , Asia , Thailand , China , Australia , Hong Kong , Singapore , international e-sim cards and many more.

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends the following e-sim cards for traveling to the USA in 2024:

1. Change e-sim card for the USA from Airalo

10 GB data-only e-sim
Valid in USA only
Valid for 30 days
$2.60 USD per Gigabyte

Airalo is the only e-sim card provider that offers USA e-sim cards that support 5G network. For $26 USD you get 10 GB data, for $16 USD you get 5 GB data and for $42 USD you get 20 GB data. Click on the link for all USA e-sim card plans from Airalo.

Click here for more info or to directly order an Airalo e-sim card for traveling in the USA .

2. Three HK e-sim from SimOptions

20 GB data-only e-sim
Valid in USA, Canada, UK, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand
$1.75 USD per Gigabyte only

SimOptions sells USA e-sim cards that go down as much as $1.75 USD per Gigabyte. There are 2 e-sim cards from Three HK, but the other e-sim gives you only 10 GB data for $24.90 USD best e-sim deal you can find is the e-sim card for $24 USD and you get 20 GB data. These Three HK e-sims that you order via SimOptions are not 5G ready, only 4G/LTE is supported.

The above e-sim cards for the USA are data-only and do NOT support local calls and sms.

If you want an e-sim card for the USA including calls and texting then Traveltomtom recommends looking into buying an e-sim card on arrival in the USA in an official mobile internet store. For $65 USD you get unlimited data, calls & sms in the USA for 30 days. But you can only buy these e-sims in person in the store.

A bummer is that you can NOT buy an e-sim card at any international airport in the USA. You have to locate a phone store nearby your hotel, get in line, bring your passport for registration, etc.

Much more work then just ordering an e-sim card on the internet. It is up to you!

There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an e-sim card for the USA.

Unlocked phones only

Make sure your phone is unlocked. E-sim cards only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country.

In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.

If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or e-sim card to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone.

E-sim compatible phones only

Second, and equally important: a-sim cards only work if your smartphone supports e-sim cards, also called e-sim compatible. All newer smartphones support e-sim cards. If you are not sure if your phone is e-sim compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is e-sim compatible. You will get the answer instantly.

If your phone is NOT e-sim compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an e-sim card for traveling to the USA.

However, you can still order a sim card for the United States on the internet before your trip. Check out Traveltomtom’s complete guide for buying a sim card for the USA in 2024 or read my guide with everything you need to know before ordering an international sim card for traveling abroad in 2024 .

USA e-sim card comparison for 2024

There are multiple website on the internet that sell e-sim cards for the USA. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for traveling in the USA from one of the well-known e-sim card providers that have proven to be reliable operators.

These are the 3 big e-sim card providers and they sell great USA e-sim card plans:

You can buy an e-sim card for pretty much every country around the world from the above trusted providers. Order directly from one of the above e-sim card providers and instantly receive your e-sim card in your email. But before you buy an e-sim card first read all my tips below.

SimOptions also offers international prepaid sim cards for USA . These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards and will be delivered to your home address before your trip to America and it is plug and play when you arrive in the US.

Airalo and Nomad only sell e-sim cards for the USA.

SimOptions is a very reliable e-sim card provider and Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world. I can totally recommend using SimOptions for ordering your USA e-sim card.

Their best USA e-sim card gives you 20 GB data for $34.90 USD. That is $1.75 USD per Gigabyte. But SimOptions has several e-sim card plans for traveling in the USA in 2024.

Why does Traveltomtom recommend SimOptions? They often have a wide array of e-sim cards for sale, including international e-sim cards valid in multiple countries.

Here are the SimOptions e-sim card plans for use in the USA only:

1 GB data for 30 days = $4.9 USD
6 GB data for 10 days = $17.9 USD
10 GB data for 15 days = $19.9 USD

Click here for more info or to order a Simoptions e-sim card for the USA .

SimOptions does not specify which network they use in the USA on the above e-sims and they are also NOT 5G ready, only 4G/LTE network is supported. The SimOptions e-sim cards are data-only and they do not come with a phone number. Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are not supported.

SimOptions also sells international e-sim cards that are valid in multiple countries. These e-sim cards are from Three Hong Kong and are valid in Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand and in the USA:

10 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD

Click here to order an international e-sim card for USA from SimOptions .

The best buy e-sim card for the United States from SimOptions is the Three (3) HK e-sim card. The Three HK international e-sim card with 20 GB data for $34.90 USD comes down to $1.75 USD per Gigabyte.

Also the Three e-sim cards for the United States are the only e-sim cards from all the USA e-sim cards available on the internet that come with a phone number from Hong Kong that starts with +852.

Which means you can receive calls and sms. Making calls and sending sms is not supported.

On the Three e-sim cards from Hong Kong, Traveltomtom readers have recently reported that TikTok is blocked, due to regulations in Hong Kong, as it is a Hong Kong based e-sim card.

The Three e-sim cards are valid for 1 year, meaning you have to install/activate the e-sim card within 1 year. Therefore it could be a perfect travel gift for someone traveling to the USA. Once activated the validity of 30 days start immediately, even if you are not yet in the USA.

Having any problems with a SimOptions e-sim card then contact their helpdesk. SimOptions has a live chat on their website during business hours. For more info check out the SimOptions website .

Airalo is another very reputable e-sim card provider that is very much recommended by Traveltomtom. Ordering your e-sim card for the USA through Airalo is done fast and easy. Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Very reliable, never an issue and often some of the cheapest e-sim card deals.

Why using Airalo? I found out that Airalo has sometimes cheaper e-sim card deals compared to SimOptions.

Especially if you only use a little bit of data while traveling and need just 1 or 2 GB data to stay in touch through WhatsApp, check your email sometimes and get directions from Google Maps, then Airalo is also great e-sim card for traveling in the USA.

Here are the USA e-sim card plans for 2024 from Airalo:

1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
2 GB data for 15 days = $8 USD
3 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
5 GB data for 30 days = $16 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $26 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $42 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for USA from Airalo .

The above Change e-sim cards are only valid in the USA (and Puerto Rico) and they operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of Verizon and T-Mobile. Big advantage of the Airalo e-sim cards compared to SimOptions and Nomad is that the Airalo e-sim cards for the USA are 5G ready.

The Airalo e-sim cards do NOT support calling and texting and they do NOT come with a phone number. You can not receive calls and text on these e-sim cards.

The USA e-sim cards from Airalo have to be installed/activated on your phone within 1 month after purchase otherwise they lose their validity. After installing, the e-sim cards starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands. For more info check out the Airalo website .

Nomad has proven to be a reliable e-sim provider and ever since Traveltomtom started using them they have improved their service, products and very important their e-sim card deals.

Nomad has now some of the cheapest e-sim card plans for traveling to the United States in 2024.

Here are the Nomad e-sim card plans for the USA:

1 GB data for 7 days = $6 USD
5 GB data for 30 days = $14 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $16 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $25 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for USA from Nomad .

Nomad always has a lot of e-sim card deals and sales on their e-sim card plans. At the moment it looks great to buy an e-sim from Nomad for traveling to the USA in 2024.

However, Traveltomtom has also ran into some concerning issues with Nomad e-sim cards that has put me a bit off to be honest. In general you should not run into problems, but I was unfortunate already 3x and had to wait for about 24 hours until my issues were resolved.

All the Nomad e-sim card plans for the USA are from eSIM Go and they operate on the 4G/LTE network of AT&T and Verizon. These eSIM Go plans are NOT 5G ready and are data-only sim cards. Incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.

The Nomad USA e-sim cards have to be installed/activated on your phone within 1 month after purchase otherwise they are automatically activated. After installing, the e-sim cards starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands in the USA. For more info check the Nomad website .

An e-sim card from T-Mobile can only be bought on arrival in the USA and only in an official store of T-Mobile. The activation fee for a new costumer is $10 USD and on top of that T-Mobile charges another $4.99 USD for an e-sim card and then you can choose from one of the following plans excluding tax:

10 GB data = $40 USD
Unlimited data + 3G hotspot = $50 USD
Unlimited data + 10 GB 4G hotspot = $60 USD

The good thing about buying a T-Mobile e-sim card on arrival in the USA in a phone store is that it comes with unlimited calling and texting in the USA.

Again, a T-Mobile e-sim card is not available online, only in stores in the USA.

An e-sim card from AT&T can only be bought on arrival in the USA and only in an official store of AT&T. The activation fee for a new costumer is $14.99 USD and on top of that AT&T charges another $4.99 USD for an e-sim card and then you can choose from one of the following plans excluding tax:

5 GB data = $30 USD
15 GB data = $40 USD
Unlimited calls/sms and data = $65 USD

The good thing about buying an AT&T e-sim card on arrival in the USA in a phone store is that it comes with unlimited calling and texting in the USA.

Again, an AT&T e-sim card is not available online, only in stores in the USA.

An e-sim card from Verizon can only be bought on arrival in the USA and only in an official store of Verizon. Verizon offer 3 prepaid plans for tourists that are available as e-sim cards. These are the prices exclusive tax:

15 GB data + unlimited calls/sms = $45 USD
Unlimited calls/sms and data + 5 GB hotspot = $60 USD
Unlimited calls/sms and data + 25 GB hotspot = $70 USD

The official registration fee for a Verizon prepaid plan is $25 USD, but is waived away often. A Verizon e-sim card is not available online, only in stores in the USA.

Why did Traveltomtom already use hundreds of e-sim cards? I travel the world full time and I am on the road constantly which seriously means I use about 40 to 50 different sim cards per year.

Traveltomtom is also on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still more than 40 to go and there is absolutely no rush!

Personally, traveling is not supposed to be a race or a competition. Enjoy life should be the spirit!

What is the cheapest e-sim card for the USA

The cheapest e-sim card plan for America is a USA e-sim card from Airalo . They have a sim card plan for just $4.5 USD. You only get 1 GB, but for some travelers that is enough. Especially if you only need it for directions and staying in touch through WhatsApp. Top Up is possible, may you run out.

Why ordering an e-sim card for traveling in the USA

E-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to USA in 2024. You arrange everything online in just a couple minutes. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards in your phone. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes.

The most important reason is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to USA. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app (Uber is Grab in USA), finding nearby friends, restaurants, bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply stay in touch with family back home, check out social media apps on long bus rides or check your banking apps when paying contactless.

One of the best things about arriving in the USA with an activated e-sim card is that you are online as soon as the plane lands and you connect to a network. More about when to instal your e-sim card later.

There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to the USA, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to USA so much more convenient and fun!

At the same time we don’t want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $2 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 25 MB * $2 USD = $50 USD! Not kidding… it still is reality in 2024.

E-sim cards are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!

International data roaming plans

So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed, but there is 5G in the USA everywhere!

Uncountable times (mostly American) travel friends asked me: “can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!” Trust me, get yourself an e-sim card or an international prepaid sim card for traveling abroad .

Where to buy an e-sim card for USA?

You can only buy an e-sim card for USA on the internet through an e-sim card provider. There are multiple e-sim card providers for the USA. Traveltomtom compared 6 e-sim card providers and determined that the above mentioned ones ( SimOptions , Airalo , Nomad ) are the best e-sim card providers for traveling to USA in 2024.

None of the mobile internet operators in the USA sell tourist e-sim cards on their own websites.

When buying an e-sim card for the USA through one of the above recommended e-sim providers you only need your email address and the e-sim card is instantly ready to use after installation. There is no ID registration needed.

On arrival in USA

When you arrive in the USA and you want to buy an e-sim card for tourists then you will have to find an official retail store of either T-Mobile or AT&T nearby and you will have to go in person to buy an e-sim card in the USA. In the store you can buy a tourist sim card and only in the official retail stores of AT&T and T-Mobile they are able to provide e-sim cards for tourists.

But keep in mind that this takes time and it is NOT cheaper at all! It is in fact even more expensive, hence why Traveltomtom recommends to order your e-sim card for traveling in the USA online.

For the best prepaid sim cards for tourists in the USA in 2024 click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in USA, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network.

How to activate an e-sim card

Installing and activating an e-sim card is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an e-sim card and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email.

When you order an e-sim card plan for the USA you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed.

You will see a summary of your e-sim card order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your USA e-sim card.

But installing an activating an e-sim card is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the e-sim card on. The QR contains all the information about your USA e-sim card.

Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your e-sim card is successfully installed. Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your e-sim card otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur.

Tip: if you order an e-sim card with the same phone where you want to instal the e-sim card on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation.

When to order/install an e-sim card for the USA?

You can order an e-sim card for USA pretty much any time you want. Most e-sim cards have to be installed on a phone within 1-3 months after purchasing, so you have time.

More important therefore is when do you instal the e-sim card. The validity of some e-sims start straight after the installation, other e-sim cards only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.

Traveltomtom advices to instal your e-sim card on the day departure to the USA at home. Or if you want to maximise your validity then activate your USA e-sim card on arrival after you connect to the free WiFi of the airport on arrival in the USA. All international airports in the USA have free public WiFi.

Things to know before ordering an e-sim card for USA

Here are some general tips for using e-sim cards when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for USA e-sim cards, but are things you have to know before buying an e-sim card in general.

Make sure your phone is unlocked

To make sure you didn’t miss this, let me say this again: e-sim cards only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any e-sim card without any problems.

If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to USA. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone.

If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a pocket WiFi for staying connected when traveling to the USA or bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to the USA and use it as a portable WiFi device.

Which smartphones support e-sim cards?

Another very important thing you have to check before buying an e-sim card is if your smartphone supports e-sim cards. If you have any of the latest mobile phones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones support e-sim cards.

The fastest way to find out if your phone is e-sim compatible is by asking Google the question: is my (your phone model) e-sim compatible? Simple as that!

Can I trust these e-sim card providers?

All the e-sim card providers for USA recommended above ( SimOptions , Airalo , Nomad ) are reputable e-sim card providers reviewed and tested by Traveltomtom. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in the USA.

Traveltomtom has successfully partnered for several consecutive years with SimOptions and Airalo. Nomad is a fairly new partner of Traveltomtom, but has so far proven to be a reliable e-sim card provider. All e-sim card providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund.

Traveltomtom does NOT sell USA e-sim cards, only recommends you to use e-sim cards for traveling to the USA.

Can I keep my phone number from home with a USA e-sim card?

Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an e-sim card to stay connected when traveling to the USA. An e-sim card can be used next to your physical or e-sim card from your home country at the same time. You do not need a dual-sim phone for using an e-sim card.

So you can have multiple e-sim cards installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all!

For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. The USA e-sim card you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.

If your USA e-sim card also allows you to make phone calls and you want to make a local call in USA, you simply switch between the sim cards and make a local phone call with your USA e-sim card.

Switching between sim cards is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings.

Can I make phone calls with a USA e-sim card?

This depends on the type of USA e-sim card that you buy. The Traveltomtom recommended e-sim cards for the USA do NOT support calls and sms, see the above comparison for specifications of every e-sim card. There are few e-sim card providers on the internet that offer USA e-sim cards including calling and texting. Traveltomtom has never tried these specific e-sim cards.

As recommended before if you are looking for an e-sim card for the USA including unlimited calls and sms to local numbers then buy your e-sim card on arrival in the USA in an official phone store from either T-Mobile or AT&T. More hassle, more expensive, but calls and texting is included in these e-sims.

Does a USA e-sim card come with a phone number?

This also depends on the type of e-sim card that you buy. E-sims that support calls and sms they come with a phone number, but also some data-only sim cards that do not support calling and texting but still come with a phone number. These type of e-sim cards can only receive calls and sms, but not make phone calls/send sms.

The Three HK and the AIS Sim2FLY e-sim cards from SimOptions they come with a phone number and therefore these e-sim cards for the USA support incoming phone calls and sms, but unfortunately not outgoing phone calls and sms. In the above USA e-sim card comparison you can find all the specifications per e-sim card.

Can I use 5G on a USA e-sim card?

It completely depends on the type of e-sim card that you order. In my comparison of the best e-sim cards for the USA I specified per e-sim card if you can use 5G or only the 4G/LTE network. Sometimes e-sim operators even specify the max data speed.

Are there e-sim cards for the USA with unlimited data?

Traveltomtom is in general not a fan of data sim cards with unlimited data. Why? Well, there is always a restriction, mostly called FUP (Fair Use Policy). Sometimes that is already 2 GB data per day, which means that after 2 GB usage your internet will be slowed down. Other e-sim cards have a FUP of 30, 50, 80 GB data. It depends on the e-sim card specification.

In general, unlimited data is pretty much never unlimited data at max speed. And trust me the reduced data speed will creep you out as it barely works!

So yes, there are e-sim cards for the USA with unlimited data but always read the fine print for more details, terms & conditions. The recommended e-sim card providers by Traveltomtom do NOT offer e-sim cards for the USA with unlimited data. No hidden fees, no Fair Use Policy. Clear terms & conditions!

Holafly is an e-sim card provider that sells e-sim cards with unlimited data, but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP).

Traveltomtom does NOT recommend USA e-sim cards with unlimited data plans. There are always restrictions. And on Holafly sim cards I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. When I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal.

Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media apps were not even loading!

Again, Traveltomtom does NOT recommend e-sim cards for USA with unlimited data. But if you think you will not use more than 2 GB per day, then this might be your favorite e-sim card. However, what is then the point of having an e-sim card with unlimited data, right?

For truly unlimited data on an USA e-sim card it is best to buy your e-sim card in person, in store in the USA. Go to a T-Mobile or AT&T retail store for these sim card deals or check out Traveltomtom's complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card for the USA in 2024 .

There are a lot of different specifications per e-sim card. Another reason why I advice you to take a close at my comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to USA in 2024.

Best way to stay connected when traveling to USA

E-sim cards are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to USA, but are they also the best way to stay connected when traveling to the USA?

There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to USA:

Local prepaid sim cards

International prepaid sim cards, e-sim cards.

Let’s compare e-sim cards, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards for you to make understand what is your preferred way to stay connected.

If you use a lot of data then local prepaid sim cards are probably the cheapest way to stay connected depending on the length of your trip. Local prepaid sim cards often offer bigger data plans than e-sim cards. However, local prepaid sim cards can only be purchased on arrival in the USA.

If this sounds like something you want then prepare to find a sim card store on arrival because buying a sim card for the USA on an international airport is very overpriced or often not even possible.

On Traveltomtom you can also find sim card guides for: Miami Airport , Newark Airport , New York JFK Airport .

More info about the best USA sim cards for tourists can be found in my complete guide for buying a sim card for USA in 2024.

The advantage of local prepaid sim cards is that you buy them directly from the mobile internet provider. You get the cheapest prices, unlimited local calls & sms included, the biggest data packages and the fastest data speed. Local prepaid sim cards in USA all offer 5G.

international prepaid sim cards for usa 2024

If your smartphone is not e-sim compatible there are many international prepaid sim cards for traveling abroad that you can use in the USA and you can easily order them online.

A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play!

Click here to order an international prepaid sim card for USA directly online .

The advantage of an international prepaid sim card is that it often includes calling and texting. E-sim cards are mostly data-only sim cards.

There are two different e-sim cards:

E-sim cards that you buy on the internet through a third party
E-sim cards that you buy in the USA in a mobile internet provider store

The big difference is that e-sim cards provided by the mobile internet operators in the USA: T-Mobile and AT&T can only be purchased at one of their phone stores around the USA.

The e-sim cards that you buy in the United States include unlimited texting and sms in the USA and e-sim cards that you buy on the internet do NOT support calling and texting.

However, on arrival in the United States you will need to find a T-Mobile or AT&T phone store, wait in line, bring your passport for registration, buy a sim card, pay the registration fee and convert it into an e-sim. Precious holiday time will be lost, but on the other hand you get a great USA sim card deal for tourists with unlimited calling and texting included.

You can NOT buy an e-sim card for the USA on arrival at an international airport in the United States.

E-sim cards vs. local prepaid sim cards

Buying an e-sim card on the internet is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to USA, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now if you want and you are all set for your trip to the USA. You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop. As soon as the plane lands, you are online.

But what is cheaper? An e-sim card or a local prepaid sim card? When we compare USA e-sim card prices with local prepaid sim cards for USA Traveltomtom comes to the conclusion that in fact e-sim cards for the USA are better value for money.

On USA e-sim cards you get more data for the same price. However, if you want a sim card for traveling in the USA with unlimited data or you want a sim card that includes calling and texting in the USA then buying a local prepaid sim card in the USA is a better deal.

After a long flight you just want to go to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card store and get connected. Especially since in the USA there are no sim card stores at the international airports.

Therefore a lot of travelers simply get an e-sim card for the USA. Faster, easier and less stress!

Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an e-sim card is that e-sim cards are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO’s operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.

This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that e-sim cards through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an e-sim cards is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.

Bottomline: the data speed of e-sim cards can be less compared to a local prepaid sim card.

I am sure some of the above tips for finding an e-sim card for your trip to the USA were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison of the best e-sim cards for America it was easier to make a decision and order your e-sim card right away.

If you still have any questions then please leave me a comment below or reach out to me on social media and I am more than happy to help you out.

Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my 610K Instagram account or 1.2 Million TikTok account both called @traveltomtom. Follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.

Enjoy your trip to USA!

Some links in this article about the best e-sim cards for the USA are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Best Prepaid SIM Card For USA Tourists with Data

Last Updated on November 27, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

One of the first considerations for people visiting a new country is determining how they will stay connected on the road. Tourists travelling to the USA are no different and given it is one of the most expensive countries for phone coverage, it is imperative to find the best prepaid SIM card for USA travel with data to ensure you’re not stuck with a hefty bill when you arrive back home.

Regardless of which country you’re travelling to the US from, there are a number of great options for buying international SIM cards that ship the card to your home address to ensure you can be connected as soon as you land!

Here’s a guide to what we think are the best-prepaid options on the market and things you need to consider before purchasing a travel SIM card for your USA adventure!

Want a quick answer? – My choice for the best SIM card for USA travel is the T-Mobile Prepaid SIM Card with UNLIMITED data .

Table of Contents

Prepaid SIM Card for USA Comparison

Should you buy a prepaid sim for the usa.

Before delving into more details about what we think are some of the best prepaid SIM cards for tourists are, it’s worth considering a few factors to ensure that making this purchase is right for you.

The first thing you might be wondering is whether you even need to buy a SIM card for the USA. After all, many local carriers around the world claim to have great coverage overseas. Unfortunately for many unsuspecting travellers who believe the marketing of their mobile phone company, they get stuck with a huge phone bill when they return home.

This is because roaming fees are outrageously expensive and while countries in the European Union have abolished roaming fees if you’re visiting from another EU country, they very much still exist in the USA. This means that roaming costs can add a huge unnecessary expense to your trip cost in the USA.

The next factor you need to consider when deciding on which SIM card is right for you is whether or not your phone is unlocked. If you’ve purchased a mobile phone or data plan, then chances are your phone might be locked to a specific carrier. You need to ensure that before you travel overseas, you unlock your phone if you want to use a prepaid SIM card abroad.

In order to unlock your phone, contact your mobile phone carrier and ask what is required. If your contract has expired, then they are typically required to unlock your phone at no extra cost.

If you’re still under contract, then there might be a fee associated with unlocking your phone, however, that might still save you money in the long run – particularly, if you’re going to be in the USA for a while and using roaming. If unlocking your phone isn’t possible then another option is to buy an affordable unlocked phone online and then purchase one of the SIM cards on this list.

The final thing that travellers need to consider when travelling abroad, regardless of whether they’re looking to buy a SIM card for Europe , the USA or any country is if it makes more sense to buy a local SIM when you land rather than a prepaid card before your departure.

Unlike many places in the world, there doesn’t seem to be many airports in the USA where you can buy local SIM cards. This means that if you want data to either use a taxi app to get to your hotel or you are renting a car and want driving directions, you’ll need to have pre-purchased a SIM card.

Furthermore, one of the main reasons why I think tourists should avoid buying a SIM card in the USA travel before they leave is because you don’t want precious time abroad hunting for a mobile phone shop and waiting in line!

Having a prepaid SIM for USA travel is useful for driving

The Best Prepaid SIM Card for USA Tourists

These are some of the SIM cards for tourists in the USA to ensure you stay connected while exploring this great country!

T-Mobile SIM with Unlimited Data

T-Mobile, one of the leading carriers in the USA, offers a number of great prepaid SIM cards for USA travel. The best type of offer that we found is this T-Mobile SIM with Unlimited Data in the USA.

In addition, travellers are able to take advantage of unlimited calls and texts in the USA.

Credit is valid for up to 30 days and travellers are even allowed to use the SIM as a mobile hotspot, though data speeds are restricted to the 3G network only.

If you also require data in Canada & Mexico then choose this similar SIM card which gives 10GB of data in the USA as well as 5GB that can be used in Canada & Mexico. This SIM is also valid for 30 days.

The prepaid SIM card from T-Mobile is one of the best options for USA travel available on the market today, particularly if you are a heavy data user and also want the ability to make calls while in the USA.

Please keep in mind that the SIM card must be activated within 90 days of purchase so make sure to purchase within a couple of months of travel only.

T-Mobile Prepaid SIM Card Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data in USA for 30 Days

Three SIM with 12GB Data

Surprisingly, one of the best SIM cards for USA travel is also one we recommend if you’re planning to travel to Europe.

The Three SIM with 12GB data is available around the world and offers one of the best deals on SIMs if travelling to the USA. If your phone is eSIM compatible, you can also buy a similar eSIM card here.

While it is operated by a UK-based company, this SIM card can be activated anywhere in the world and you can use the 12GB of data in up to 71 countries including the USA.

This means that if you’re from one of these countries, you can actually test the SIM card before you depart for your trip to give yourself some extra peace of mind.

This SIM card advertises that they offer calls and texts but the fine print reads that these are only available in the UK and Europe so you won’t be able to use them in the USA.

The data is valid for 30 days after activating the card and you can only recharge if you have a UK credit card so this SIM card is also best for travellers that are only going to be in the USA for a short trip. It is also worth noting that you are not able to use this SIM card as a mobile hotspot.

If you are going on a longer trip to the US, it’s possible to purchase a Three SIM with 12GB data and 1-year validity here. However, there are no calls or SMS credits available with these SIM cards.

While there are a few limitations of the Three SIM Card, it is a great deal if you are only travelling to the USA for a short trip and are looking for a data SIM card for the USA.

PrePaid Europe (UK THREE) sim card 12GB data+3000 minutes+3000 texts for 30 days with FREE ROAMING / USE in 71 destinations including all European countries

AT&T SIM with 22GB Data

Similarly, to the T-Mobile SIM, one of the USA’s other major phone carriers – AT&T – offers a prepaid SIM with 22GB data that can be used in the USA, Canada & Mexico.

Unlike the T-Mobile card, AT&T allows the whole data allowance to be used in Canada & Mexico which makes it ideal if you’re not travelling exclusively in the USA. The data in these countries also utilise the 4G network ensuring faster speed.

In addition to the high data allowance, the AT&T SIM with 22GB data provides unlimited texts and calls in the USA, Canada & Mexico with the allowance being valid for 30 days.

One limitation of this SIM card is that you can not use it as a personal hotspot which the T-Mobile SIM card allows. You must also activate it at least 3 days before travelling.

Overall, the AT&T SIM with 22GB data is undoubtedly one of the best SIM cards for the USA with data, particularly if you’re also visiting Canada & Mexico and don’t need to use the card as a hotspot. It is, however, not available in all regions.

AT&T Prepaid USA Sim Card-Unlimited Talk, Text, and 22GB 4G LTE Data in USA Canada Mexico 1 Month

Orange Holiday World SIM with 10GB Data

Another great SIM card option for travelling in the USA, the Orange H oliday World SIM (also available from Simoptions here ) includes 10GB of data that can be used across the USA as well as 66 other countries including Canada and Mexico.

The credit on this SIM is valid for 14 days, however, you can register your SIM card online and then top up your SIM card as needed. This SIM card can also be used as a mobile hotspot and for WiFI tethering.

One of the major drawbacks of this SIM card is that it doesn’t support any calls or texts so it’s best for travellers who are looking purely for data and want the ability to recharge over a longer trip.

It’s worth also noting that this SIM card can in fact be used in essentially every country in the world but there is a sliding scale of data for other places. So for example, they offer 5GB in ‘Zone 2’ countries, 1GB in ‘Zone 3’ countries and 50MB anywhere else in the world.

The Orange Holiday World SIM is a great option for travellers not looking for any calls or texts and simply want the ability to use data across devices and be able to recharge easily if they use up their credit.

Orange Holiday Worldwide Prepaid SIM Card Combo Deal Official Authorized Internet Data in 4G/LTE (Data tethering Allowed) + 1 Sim Card Holder + 1 Pin (Asia America Europe)

LycaMobile SIM with 4GB Data

If you don’t need a large data allowance but plan to text and call a lot while travelling then the LycaMobile SIM with 4GB data might be the best SIM card for USA travel for you.

Also utilising the T-Mobile network, they offer 4GB of 4G data and unlimited calls and texts to over 65+ countries. It cannot be used as a mobile hotspot.

The LycaMobile SIM shouldn’t be your top choice if you’re primarily concerned about having a large data allowance, however, it is a great option for old-school travellers who prefer to call and text rather than use the internet on their phones!

Lycamobile $29 Plan 1st Month Included SIM Card is Triple Cut Unlimited Natl Talk & Text to US and 65+ Countries 4GB Of 4G LTE

If you’re on the hunt for the best prepaid SIM for USA travel, you’ll be happy to know that there are a number of great options available on the market. Whether you’re looking for a large data allowance or the ability to make unlimited phone calls, there is something available for you!

Are you a tourist looking to buy a prepaid SIM card for travel in the USA? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Hi Michael,

I will travel to California in December 2022 and need a data sim for a mobile WIFI unit (TP-Link M7450). I want to share the data between the family (4 people)

– First do you know if I can use the mobile router on the network. As far as I can see it is capable of working on the US carriers frequencies band? – secondly it seems like the T-Mobile unlimited plan is the best option?

Appreciate if you have time to comments…Thank you

Best regards, Tim Jensen

i am going to US next week, will samsung edge10 work with open to all network?

I have a Huawei phone. Will a US Sim card work in it?

I’m travelling to USA from uk in about 3 weeks. Can I use a SIM only card in my iPhone 12 if I can get O2 to unlock my phone?

If your phone is unlocked then you should be able to use any SIM card.

Hello, I need a Spain’s sim (phone #) that will work in US, just need sms (receive a verification sms) and may be calls. Duration as long as possible. Any idea? Thank you

Hi, I’m travelling to New York next month for a week’s holiday. My phone doesn’t support the LTE service. Can you suggest a pre-paid sim card that would be suitable for me?? Hope you can help

What difference does the AT&T (and later other network’s) removal of 3G next year make for any of these services? Or will there be little interruption? Thanks for your article

The AT&T SIM and the other SIM cards listed use 4G so I don’t believe there should be any major impact.

Hello Michael. We are Canadian snowbirds whom are finally travelling once again to Florida. We normally stay 3-4 months. Data is not much used but talk and text between Canada/US is very much needed. What SIM card that can be reloaded do you suggest. We had a Canadian Roaming company that we used previously but unfortunately they have gone out of business due to the pandemic. Thank you

Hi Ann-Marie, the AT&T SIM is rechargable and I believe allows calls from the USA to Canada.

i am looking for a sim that’s good for use in Florida for 14-21 days. mainly used for google maps, streaming Netflix etc and for use at theme parks. Calls and texts not so important but still required. what would you recommend

T-Mobile Prepaid SIM is a good option

Hi Michael, My husband and I will be spending several months each winter in the USA and I’m planning to purchase prepaid SIM cards for our unlocked cell phones. Most have a 30 day credit expiry. Do I need to purchase new SIM cards every 30 days or can I reload the first card somehow? TIA

Hi Diane, You can recharge most prepaid SIM cards.

I’m going travelling to the USA at the end of feb 22 for around 70 days, coming from Europe. My phone is unlocked and I’m wondering what the best sim would be for this trip. I’ll be going from east to west coast and back again, so i presume I’d need a decent amount of data. I was considering the T-mobile one you have in the article. any suggestions on my best course of action?

Thanks, Luke

Hi Luke, I would choose T-Mobile.

I have been leaving in different parts of Asia and the UK all my life. Now I planning to move to the US cause of my work and my family is residing in the US hence I will be joining them and will be staying for a longer period in the North America (Canada & US).

Probably once in a year or two I will be visiting Asia, Middle-East, and parts of Europe and Africa as part of my mission work job.

Hence would you recommend me one prepaid sim that I will be able to permanently use (especially in the US), so I don’t have to keep changing, cause then I just have to stick with one number and is more convenient in remembering the number, rather than just switching the sim/number and trying to remember the number every two-three years.

I would like to have a prepaid with more data with an option of mobile tethering or hotspot compatible so it will enable me to connect my tablet or laptop. And do few calls (pretty rarely, but definitely will have to where or when the internet can be an issue instead of totally relying on Socialmedia communication platforms like Skype, WhatsApp, FB messenger and zoom) for International and local calls.

Secondly in the long-run will it be beneficial, as in recharging every month if it’s a 3 prepaid provider or recharge fortnightly if opting for the Orange global.

Finally will I be able to purchase either of the sim in US Airports mainly in O’hare (Chicago) or at DallasFortWorth (TX), cause I haven’t yet decided on my final iternary but will definitely be landing in one of these airports.

Thanks and Kind Regards Jean GT

Hi Jean, If you plan on being in the US long term, you’re probably better off getting a plan rather than relying on prepaid SIMs, though buying a prepaid SIM before arriving in the US might be helpful as a temporary measure as you can’t typically buy SIM cards at airports in the US. When travelling abroad, some of the US plans will have roaming options though it might be cheaper to buy a prepaid or local SIM in some countries.

Hello which usa sim card can I use in europe ? And buy it and top up also in Europe by credit card or something like that.

Hi Ana, Check out this article for our best Sim cards for Europe: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/best-international-sim-card-for-europe/

I am Aslam Shahzad, from Pakistan, I am coming to United States of America in the month of November 2020 for pleasure visit. During my stay in the USA I need a Mobile Sim Card, What documents needs for buying a Sim Card. How much it cost. How to buy?

Hi Aslam, You can buy prepaid SIM cards online from the links in this article. If it’s not possible to ship to your area then you can buy in T-Mobile or AT&T shops when you arrive in the USA. You shouldn’t need any specific documents (maybe just your ID) and prices will vary depending on the amount of data/calls you require.

I would like some information. I am a Canadian and I go to the United States for many trips. Each trip may be 2 days or 5 days or other. The duration is variable and the travel dates are random.

I would like to buy a SIM card with unlimited sms, calls permitted, 1GB of data and recharagable, without having a consecutive days or without expiry date. I would like to take the same SIM card from each trips, anywhere in the United States.

which sim card do you recommend me?

Gilles Blais

Hi Gilles, I don’t think you’re going to be able to find a SIM card like you’ve described in the US. Investigating roaming plans in Canada might be your best option though probably more expensive than just buying a new prepaid SIM every time you go to the US.

Hi About Prepaid USA Travel SIM Card for Tourists, at the above lines you mention that “…..A limitation of the WorldSIM prepaid SIM card is that you can’t use it as a mobile hotspot….” However, I had a conversation with a WorldSim agent and he was positive that I can insert the sim at my phone and use mobile hotspot option to serve data to another person phone….

Hi Anna, I reached out to WorldSim again and they told me that this SIM won’t work as a mobile hotspot. There is also nothing on their website that suggests it does. If this is an important feature for you, I suggest going with one of the other options listed in this article. Have a great trip!

Best Prepaid Sim Cards For USA (Connect On The Go)

Staying connected while traveling is essential. Let’s be honest, these days our phones are an integral part of our lives and to travel without being able to use the internet, make calls, use apps and message loved ones at home simply isn’t an option.

A great way to ensure your mobile phone stays connected in the USA is by buying a prepaid sim card. But, which USA sim cards are the best, and which one is right for you?

Join me as I run through the best-prepaid sim cards for the USA so that you can find the best prepaid sim card for your travels there. Let’s dive in!

T-Mobile Prepaid Sim Card

T-Mobile is the second largest mobile provider in the USA which means you will have excellent coverage and fast connection speeds with a T-Mobile sim card.

In fact, they have almost 40% of the USA is covered with 5G NR, so you’ll be uploading and downloading faster than ever.

T-Mobile offers three prepaid sim cards to choose from. All the prepaid plans come with unlimited local calls and texts plus quite a bit of data, here they are.

30 days/10GB data usage/unlimited calls and SMS – $40
30 days/Unlimited data allowance/unlimited calls and SMS/unlimited 3G hotspot – $50
30 days/Unlimited data allowance/unlimited calls and SMS/10GB 5G hotspot then unlimited 3G hotspot – $50

As you can see, T-Mobile offers some excellent prepaid USA sim card plans for you to choose from with more than enough data allowance for your trip.

You can even add “Talk, Text, and up to 5GB of 4G data in Mexico & Canada” to your plan for $5 a month.

Excellent coverage
5G in most parts of the USA
Unlimited data options
Unlimited calls and texts
Hotspots allowed
A range of plans to choose from
A little expensive

LycaMobile Prepaid Sim Card

LycaMobile is an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) and it uses the T-Mobile network to provide a connection for its prepaid USA sim cards.

This means you will get a fast 5G connection in 40% of the country and 4G everywhere else with a LycaMobikle sim card for the USA.

LycaMobile is all about providing calls and SMS to international countries and all their plans come with unlimited local calls and SMS as well as unlimited calls and SMS to 85 countries around the world.

Each of their plans comes with a varying amount of data and all last for 30 days minimum but you can buy 1,3,6 or 12 months as you prefer.

Their plans start at $15 for 250 MB high-speed data and go up to unlimited data with 15GB at up to 4G/5G speed for $39 and 60GB data at up to 5G speed for $59.

Unlimited local calls & texts
Unlimited calls & texts to 85 countries
A range of data plans to choose from
Very affordable
Great coverage and speeds
None I can find

AT&T Prepaid Sim Card

AT & T is the third largest mobile operator in the USA after T-Mobile and Verizon. They have pretty solid coverage all over the country with 5G speeds available but if you are in Alaska, Maine, Arizona, Nevada & Wyoming coverage can be spotty.

AT&T offers two types of USA sim card, data-only sim cards and combo prepaid sim cards. Their data-only sim card is designed for use with tablets but works just as well in a mobile phone.

Their combo plans include unlimited text from the U.S. to over 230 countries and unlimited talk and text in the USA. You can also use a mobile hotspot with AT&T in line with your data allowance. Here are the combo plans:

$30/5GB data/30 days
$65/unlimited data/30 days

Their data-only plans are as follows:

$35/15GB data/30 days
$55/100GB data/30 days

As you can see, their plans are solid but a little expensive compared to others.

Solid coverage
Good speeds
Coverage is not as good as other providers
A bit expensive

Orange Holiday World Sim Card

The Orange Holiday World Sim Card is a prepaid sim card for the USA and the rest of the world. Orange is a French network that partners with local mobile operators in each country to provide great coverage and a 4G connection.

There is just one plan with this prepaid sim card for the USA and it works in all countries in the world too.

You get 10GB of data in the USA and 65 other countries for 14 days for $49.90. The allowance then goes down depending on the countries you are in.

Overall, it is a great data-only global sim card but is a bit expensive for the USA and it only lasts for 14 days.

Works all over the world
Up to 10GB of data
Good coverage and connection speeds
Order online before travel
Only lasts 14 days
Data only, no local calls or sms

Three Prepaid Sim Card

The Three Prepaid Sim Card might just be the best-prepaid sim card for the USA if you are looking for an affordable data-only connection, plus it works in 70 other countries too.

For just $18.95 you get 12GB of data for 30 days, which is a great deal. On top of this comes 3000 voice mins and 3000 texts to use in Europe and for European numbers.

The service is provided by T-Mobile so you will have excellent coverage and access to 5G across most of the USA.

The only downsides are that hotspots and video streaming are not allowed.

A good amount of data
Pre-order online
Works in 71 countries
Fast speeds
No hotspot allowed
No video streaming allowed

Google Fi is also an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) operating on T-Mobile’s network. T-Mobile has some of the best coverage and 5G speeds in the USA so you will always have a reliable connection.

Google Fi offers 3 prepaid sim card plans and all of them allow you to use a mobile hotspot and include unlimited calls and sms in/to US, Canada, & Mexico.

Here are their plans:

$20/10GB data/Free calls to Canada & Mexico/unlimited calls and sms in USA – 30 days
$50/unlimited data/Free calls to Canada & Mexico/unlimited calls and sms in USA – 30 days
$60/unlimited data/Free calls to 200 destinations/unlimited calls and sms in USA/free data in 200 countries/free texts outside US, Canada, & Mexico – 30 days

Another great thing about these plans is that you can buy them for up to a group of 6 which considerably reduces the price.

Great range of plans to choose from
Solid coverage and fast speeds
Some plans work globally
Calls to Mexico & Canada included

Is A Sim Card Essential When Traveling to the US?

In today’s world, a SIM card has become an essential item when traveling to the USA or any other place.

Our reliance on smartphones is so great that not being connected while exploring a country like the USA is not a viable option.

By having a prepaid SIM card in the USA, you can do everything you rely on your phone for without having to search for free WiFI.

You can make phone calls, book transportation, stay in touch with loved ones, use navigation apps, request Ubers, and much more.

Additionally, having a SIM card provides a sense of safety when exploring unfamiliar locations since you can make calls or send messages whenever you need to.

Furthermore, you can remain connected for almost a month in the USA for around $20 USD with a prepaid SIM card, so it is certainly worth it in my eyes.

If you are on a serious budget, you could survive on free WiFi between your accommodation, restaurants, and cafes but it is certainly not convenient.

Things to Know Before Buying A Sim Card in the USA

Is your phone unlocked.

If you’re planning to use a prepaid sim card while traveling abroad your phone needs to be unlocked from your mobile provider back home. But don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process!

First, you should check if your phone is already unlocked, most likely it will be. However, if you’re unsure, give your local provider a call and ask them. They’ll be able to confirm whether or not your phone is locked.

If your phone is locked, don’t panic! Just ask your provider to unlock it, and it’ll only take a few minutes.

Are You Using A GSM Phone?

The USA has two types of mobile networks, GSM and CDMA. Only GSM phones work on GSM networks and the same goes for CDMA.

Luckily, most of the world uses GSM as do all the network providers featured above, so your GSM phone will work with all of them.

If you have a CDMA phone, then you will need to get a prepaid sim card from Verizon as they are the only network using CDMA in the USA.

How to Buy A Sim Card in the USA

Buying a sim card before traveling to the us.

You can buy a prepaid sim before traveling to the US but it would have to be from a 3rd party site like SimOptions or Amazon.

It would also have to be a prepaid sim like the Orange World sim card or the Three prepaid sims, both of which are featured above.

You also have the option to buy an eSim for the USA which can be done online also.

It does make life a lot easier as you can simply put the sim card in your phone and start using it as soon as you land.

Buying A Sim Card in the USA

Buying a sim card in the USA is very easy. You do not need your passport to buy a sim and they are available at most electronics stores, mobile phone stores, and at the providers’ physical stores too.

Sadly, finding a shop that sells sim cards in the airport in the USA is rare.

How Much Does A Sim Card in the USA Cost?

The price of sim cards differs depending on the provider you are buying the sim card from. Some sim cards are free and included in the package you buy, this is the case for LycaMobile.

With other providers, you should expect to pay around $5 to $10 for your sim card.

How to Activate & Top Up Your US Sim Card

If you buy your sim from a provider’s store, they will help you to activate and top up your US sim card in the shop. This makes the process very easy.

However, if you buy your sim from a 3rd party vendor, then you will need to activate it yourself, and here is how.

Activation – insert the SIM card into your phone and power it on. If your phone prompts you to enter a code, you can usually find it on the SIM card packaging. If not, contact the carrier’s customer service to get the activation code.
Registration – you may need to register your SIM card with the carrier online to activate it. This process involves providing personal details like your name, address, and identification.
Top-Up – you can usually do this online through the carrier’s website, mobile app, or by purchasing top-up vouchers from retail stores.

Managing Your Mobile Data in the USA

While managing your mobile data in the US may not be high on your list of concerns, it’s always nice to avoid running out of data in the middle of your day. Here are some tips to help you out:

Find the perfect plan: Before purchasing a SIM card, take a look at the different plans offered by various mobile network providers. This way, you can find the perfect plan to fit your data usage and budget. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of the plan, including any data limits.
Utilize Wi-Fi: Don’t forget to take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots at hotels, cafes, and public places to conserve your mobile data.
Monitor your usage: Most smartphones have a built-in data usage tracker that lets you monitor your data usage. Set up alerts or warnings when you’re approaching your data limit to avoid overage charges.
Disable automatic updates: Keep your mobile data in check by disabling automatic updates for apps and operating systems. Instead, manually update them when you have access to Wi-Fi.
Use airplane mode: Keep those pesky background apps from using up your data by using airplane mode. You can still use GPS and snap photos with it on.
Download Google Maps offline: Navigate the US without using any data by downloading Google Maps offline while connected to Wi-Fi.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest prepaid sim card in the us.

The cheapest prepaid sim card in the US is actually the Three Prepaid Sim featured above. The price per GB is better than any others but it does not come with any calls or sms included.

Can foreigners buy a sim card in the USA?

Yes, foreigners can buy a sim card in the USA without any worries. You will have to self-register your sim with your personal details afterward.

Is it easy to get a SIM card in the US?

Yes, it is very easy to get a sim card in the US as they are available at most electronics stores, mobile phone stores, and at the providers’ physical stores too. You do not need your passport or ID to buy one either.

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The 7 Best Prepaid SIM Cards For The USA

It is widely known that telecommunications in the USA are very expensive compared to other countries. When you’re coming only to visit the country, you probably have a lot of other expenses already planned in for your trip abroad. That’s why if you going to pay for an extra service, you’ll want the very best.

Especially for the US telecommunications market, it is very important to know the main distinctions of CDMA and the GSM in the mobile communication sector. In general, the key differences between those two technologies are the security factors, the global reach and the LTE data speeds.

Nowadays, CDMA is almost exclusively used in the USA, partly in Japan & Canada. Over 210 countries worldwide support only the GSM technology including Europe. What does it mean for the end user? CDMA phones are tied to the provider! You can’t even change to a different provider within the same country unless your phone comes with an ‘unlocked’ SIM Card slot! GSM phones have the capability to be used across other GSM network which makes roaming much easier.

Unfortunately, there are not many choices in the GSM market, as Verizon and Sprit, two of the biggest carriers, use CDMA, a different mobile technology. This leaves you with only AT&T and T-Mobile for big providers. Nonetheless, which among all the providers offers the best prepaid SIM card USA ?

We looked at all mobile internet providers and their prepaid plans that include talk, text and data. Here are our top three choices of USA SIM cards for you so you don’t need to rely on free Wi-Fi abroad!

Looking for an alternative solution? We have eSIMs for the USA available!

What Are The Best SIM Cards for the USA?

The 7 best prepaid sim card usa, the best value.

If you’re looking for the maximum amount of high-speed data for the lowest price, you should definitely check Simoptions’ Prepaid SIM Card USA . For only $ 39.90 , you get 6GB of mobile internet in all the United States, valid for 15 days.

Travel SIM World | $ 39.90 - 6GB

Calls/SMS: No
Credit Validity: 15 days

Moreover, this is also the most convenient option, as this offer can be bought online and ships worldwide. The only downside to this offer is that tethering from a phone isn’t allowed, but if you own a pocket wifi device it works just fine.

As an alternative option, you will have the Smart Platinum and Smart Platinum X providing you with up to 24GB Data in 3G/4G LTE for up to 2 years. Find more details about both available SIM Cards below:

PAYG MBB 12GB | $ 59.90 - 12GB

Credit Validity: 1 Year

PAYG MBB 24GB | $ 79.90 - 24GB

Credit Validity: 2 Year

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The Most Complete

For $60, the best deal you can get in the US is the Unlimited plan from MetroPCS. It may be expensive, but you’ll get unlimited calls, unlimited texts and unlimited LTE internet. Moreover, you can use your device as a hotspot to share up to 8GB of connection with other cell phones.

The only problem we found with this offer (apart from its price) is that it isn’t available online at all. You’ll have to go find a store in the USA, and some employees will refuse to sell it to you if you don’t have an American I.D. or address.

Alternatively, you can pick the Smart Gold SIM Card USA with the 12GB Data plan for only $ 39.90 . If you are already using WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Telegram or any other messenger application, then a Data-Only Plan will be enough.

PAYG AIO20 | $ 39.90 - 12GB

Credit Validity: 30 days

If you are a heavy-data user and make regular calls, the Happy Data SIM Card from T-Mobile and the Smart Data X from AT&T are the right choice for you. With up to 50GB Data and unlimited calls & texts, you will not have the problem of running out of data anytime soon.

Prepaid SIM - 50GB | $ 69.90 - 50GB

Calls/SMS: Yes

Unlimited Data + Talk + Text | $ 79.90 - 30GB

With a SIM card validity of 30 days and high-speed internet access across all the USA, you can easily stay in touch with friends & family with the Smart Gold SIM Card USA. Unlike the Unlimited Plan from MetroPCS, you don’t need to provide any additional I.D. – Simply order it and it is ready to use!

The Most Affordable

If you’re looking for the cheapest smartphone option available, then you should go with the T-Mobile’s Tourist Plan. For $30, it contains 1000 minutes of US calls, unlimited international texting and unlimited data, with 2GB of 4G.

The only limit to this offer is that the credit only lasts 3 weeks. Also, you can order it online, but T-Mobile won’t ship outside the United States, so you’ll have to send it to an address where you can collect it when you arrive.

An alternative to the T-Mobile’s Tourist Plan is the Smart Silver SIM Card USA for $ 29.90 . This mobile prepaid SIM Card contains 5GB Data which is valid for 30 days. The SIM Card can be shipped worldwide and no further registration is needed. It will automatically activate after the first use of data in the USA.

PAYG AIO15 | $ 29.90 - 10GB

The best data only sim card for the usa from simoptions.

The 3-in-1 Data only SIM Card for the USA

3-in-1 prepaid sim card usa from simoptions

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Published on 11th January 2020

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Best Prepaid SIM cards for traveling to the USA in 2024

In this article we will tell you everything you need to know to buy and use a SIM card with data for the United States (2023).

Mark Robins

January 1, 2024

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Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees

Plans that may interest you

If you’re traveling to the USA, you’ll need a mobile internet connection to accompany you. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the best prepaid SIM card for the USA , including where you can buy them, how to activate them, and how to ensure you’re never left without internet access.

Virtual SIM card for the USA

Worry anymore about the expensive roaming fees in the USA! With the eSIM United States from Holafly, you can get unlimited mobile data in the United States in just 5 minutes. Get 5% OFF. Code: MYESIMNOW5

Can I buy a SIM card for use in the USA?

Yes, you can do it, and you don’t need many requirements. There are prepaid SIM card options you can get without many problems when you are a tourist . These alternatives can even give you the chip before you arrive in the country, and some others have immediate delivery.

Where to buy a data SIM card for the USA?

Buying a USA tourist SIM card will keep you connected throughout your trip. Forget about paying excessive charges for international roaming services in the USA or renting pocket wifi. With the data SIM card, you can use your cell phone during your trip. And you’ll never worry about losing connection again.

When traveling to the USA, the local options you can buy as a tourist are prepaid SIM cards. Carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile sell these SIM cards in their stores nationwide. You do not need to sign contracts to buy them; they are ideal for travelers. However, you will not have internet until you arrive in the country and find a store. Finally, to help you choose, you can review this checklist.

If possible, buy your SIM card before you start your trip . This will give you more time to compare plans and prices, and you can start using your phone as soon as you arrive in the USA.
If you are already in the USA , you can still buy a prepaid SIM card from one of the major carriers, such as AT&T , T-Mobile , or Verizon . You can find their stores nationwide, including at international airports.
To buy a local prepaid SIM card , you do not need to sign a contract. However, you must register the SIM card and have an unlocked phone. You may also need to have a valid ID.

> Get to know a guide for the San Diego Comic-Con <

Can I purchase a SIM card online for the USA?

You can buy prepaid internet SIM cards for the USA in several ways. First of all, you can purchase one through online stores . These prepaid SIM cards from online providers will mainly offer internet for the USA from local cellular networks such as AT&T and T-Mobile . With these stores, you can choose between different data plans and benefits that may vary depending on the provider.

Buying a SIM card before and after landing: Comparison

As we can see, we can buy SIM cards for the USA before arriving and once we are in the country. It is more advisable to buy it before arrival, and in the following table, we point out the additional benefits of having your SIM card in advance.

Top 6 Best SIM Cards for the USA

There will be no shortage of offers and alternatives when buying a physical SIM card or a virtual SIM card for the USA . That’s why we will give you some recommendations to consider so you don’t waste too much time looking for a solution. We also avoid running into service offers that do not guarantee good speed and coverage nationwide.

Here are some of the providers and their options to keep you connected in the USA

Regarding eSIM unlimited data for the USA, one of the best online stores to consider is Holafly. You only need an internet connection, a valid email, and a compatible phone to buy and use them.

The eSIM for this destination has various plans ranging from one day to 90 days of use, including unlimited data and with prices from $6 to $139. Best of all, you can customize your plan and include precisely the days you need.

This online store also offers an eSIM North America with unlimited data, which helps with using eSIMs in Mexico , Canada, and the USA in one package and a similar package with the eSIM in Europe with coverage in more than 20 countries. Thanks to this technology, virtual SIM cards can be delivered immediately via email . In addition to fast delivery, multi-country coverage, and unlimited data, Holafly’s service includes other benefits such as:

You can buy it before arriving in the USA or once you are there.
Multilingual customer service and online store
You can recharge your service through top-ups for more days of use
4G LTE coverage in the USA with support for AT&T, Verizon, and PTI networks
Multiple payment methods targeted to travelers, such as credit cards, debit cards, Paypal, G Pay, and Apple Pay
Mobile App is compatible with Apple and Android .
No registration is required, and a virtual SIM card is easy to set up

2. AT&T

This is one of the most used mobile operators in the United States. So, with them, you can acquire a prepaid SIM card for free and recharge any data plan. You can not buy on their website as a tourist , so you must look for it when you arrive in the country. You can choose between different plans depending on your needs.

5 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $30
15 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $40
Unlimited data for 30 days at $65
16 GB/Month high-speed data for three months at $99
Unlimited data for 12 months at $300

You also can share data with nearby devices if needed. If the plan you choose is not an unlimited data plan, the data you do not consume in one period can roll over to the next period as long as you renew it. Also, you can purchase AT&T prepaid SIM cards through their website, in a physical store, or even in supermarkets such as Walmart or Best Buy. In any of the cases when hiring their services, you will have additional benefits such as

Unlimited talk and text
5G access included with the high-speed data
Unlimited text from the USA to over 230 countries
Rollover data
Some plans have coverage in Mexico and Canada (Limit 25GB for data)

3. T-Mobile

On the other hand, we have T-mobile. With this local operator, you will need to pay for the T-Mobile USA prepaid SIM card , and you will need to purchase it through one of their physical stores or supermarkets, such as Walmart and Target. As for the prepaid offers:

10 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $40
Unlimited data for 30 days at $50
Unlimited data plus for 30 days at $60

If you want to add services to neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico , you must pay an extra fixed amount between $5 and $15. The difference between the unlimited plus and unlimited plans is that one allows high-speed data sharing, and the other does not. Other services that are added to these data plans:

Unlimited domestic talk and text
Domestic 5G handset data on T-Mobile network
WiFi calling
Data Maximizer
Coverage in Canada and Mexico with an extra fee

Verizon is another well-known mobile operator in the United States. However, one particularity with this USA carrier is that their SIM card is not compatible with all types of phones . For this reason, to purchase a prepaid SIM card with them, you must bring your device and confirm that you can use one of their data plans.

15 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $45
Unlimited data for 30 days at $60
Unlimited data plus for 30 days at $70

Again, the difference between the two unlimited data plans is the amount of GB you can share a mobile hotspot at high speed. You can enjoy discounts for Auto Pay or loyalty after three months of use, but this is focused more on resident customers than tourists. Considering this, in addition to the discounts you have services such as

Access to 5G Verizon network coverage with compatible devices
Mobile hotspot to share data with other devices
Unlimited calling and texting in the USA
Unlimited text messaging from the USA to more than 200 countries and territories worldwide.
Coverage in Mexico and Canada
Digital security with personal data anti-virus, anti-malware, and secure browsing.

5. Lycamobile

Another option we have in the USA is Lycamobile, a virtual operator that works with the T-Mobile network in the country . To buy one of their prepaid SIM cards, you must access their website and enter the Zipcode of the city where you are . After that, it will tell you if they have coverage in the area and the New Lines deals they offer .

250 MB for 30 days at $15
2 GB for 30 days at $19
3 GB for 30 days at $23
6 GB for 30 days at $29
9 GB for 30 days at $33
15 GB for 30 days at $39
40 GB for 30 days at $49
60 GB for 30 days at $59

The connection speed is 5G if your device is compatible and you are within the network coverage. After you consume the data package , you cannot continue browsing unless you recharge your SIM card. Thanks to Lycamobile’s alliances in other countries with their data packages, it is also included:

Unlimited nationwide talk and text
You can use your minutes and messages from the USA to 85 different countries.
No contracts are required. Just have a US address to receive the SIM card.
You can use SIM cards on phones purchased outside the US if unlocked.

6. Black Wireless

Finally, we came across another virtual operator from the USA that uses the AT&T network to connect with their prepaid SIM cards . As in other cases, they do not require a contract to buy them, but we must have an address to receive the SIM card. They have four monthly plan options to choose from

500 MB high-speed data for 30 days at $15
1 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $20
10 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $30
22 GB high-speed data for 30 days at $40

After you consume the data of your plan you will be able to continue browsing but at a reduced speed of 128 kbps . International calls are also included. There is no minute limit, but you can only call ten different numbers per monthly cycle. In addition to this benefit, you can add other services such as.

Unlimited local texting and messaging
International calling in over 50 countries
Activate your prepaid plan on a SIM card or virtual SIM card
You can add international data or minutes through Add ons every month

What’s the best SIM card to use in the USA?

Holafly offers one of the best virtual SIM cards for the USA, providing consistent 4G speed, unlimited data, and easy top-up options . It is also the most convenient option, as you can purchase it online before arriving or once in the USA. You can use multi-language customer service to assist you at all times. So, if you are looking for a reliable and affordable way to stay connected in the country, Holafly is the best choice for travelers worldwide .

What is the Best unlimited SIM card for the USA?

In this category, Holafly also stands out from the other options by offering unlimited data on all available plans for their unlimited eSIM USA , regardless of the duration of the package! It also offers this advantage in prepaid, so being a tourist, the purchase is much more direct. It is difficult to find online stores offering unlimited data with this versatility.

On the other hand, if you do not have a phone compatible with the virtual SIM card, you can find local options in the USA with unlimited data packages . AT&T and T-Mobile have unlimited data SIM cards but only in 30-day options. Also, these carriers are looking for long-term customers, so you will not enjoy benefits such as discounts if you do not renew the plan every month.

Frequently asked questions about SIM cards for the USA

You can activate data roaming and use data provided by your current provider. But be aware that this will be very expensive. For sure, the best alternative for connecting to the internet in the USA is the virtual SIM card.

To check if your phone is compatible with an eSIM , you must check with the company you’re buying the eSIM from. This information will be on their website. Generally, the latest iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel, and Huawei models are compatible with eSIM but check carefully before buying.

A physical data SIM will work with any unlocked cell phone (i.e. a phone that is not tied to any one cellular provider)

Roaming services in the United States vary between cellular providers as each operator has a different rate. But the average value per MB is usually between $5 and $10. Watching a show on Netflix at that rate could cost hundreds. That’s why we recommend buying a SIM card to avoid roaming costs.

Yes, you just need to confirm that it is an unlocked phone and you can use American SIM cards without any limitations. If it is locked, it will only work with SIM cards from your local operator. In addition to being unlocked, the phone must be able to use GSM networks. However, this is standard in almost all countries, so it should not be an obstacle.

Yes, foreigners can purchase prepaid SIM cards for the USA from local carriers in the country and from international online stores. On the other hand, if you are a foreigner but meet requirements such as a valid US ID, a US billing address, and a positive credit history, you can also buy postpaid plans.

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Best eSIM For USA Travel: Everything You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 19, 2024 | SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Are you planning a trip to the United States and want to stay connected while on the go?

Look no further than an eSIM! An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that can be used instead of a physical SIM card and is becoming increasingly popular for travelers.

It eliminates the need to buy multiple physical SIM cards from different carriers, saving you time and money.

In this guide, we’ll provide all the information you need to find the best USA eSIM for your upcoming travels.

So let’s start – it’s time to find out which USA eSIM is truly “the best”!

Best eSIM USA Deals

Here are the best USA eSIM providers depending on your needs:

Cheapest USA plans: Nomad offers the cheapest plans in the United States. Airalo and AloSIM are slightly more expensive.
Cheapest unlimited plans in the USA: Yoho Mobile offers the cheapest plans, and it includes Voice and SMS, too. However, if you need unlimited data for longer periods, Holafly is a great option.
Plans without expiration: BNESIM is the only eSIM offering plans without expiration.

ESIM Installation And Compatibility

eSIM technology is currently supported on a few devices, including:

Apple iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, and newer models.
Google Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and newer models.
Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, and newer models.
Huawei P40, and newer models.

If you’re considering upgrading your phone soon, read about the best eSIM phones .

To verify if your device is compatible with eSIM , go to Settings and locate your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). This will tell you if your device supports eSIM.

Here’s how to do it add an eSIM on a Google Pixel device:

Go to Settings.
Go to Network and Internet
Click on Add more
Choose Download a SIM instead.
Click on next.
Scan the QR code.
Name the eSIM.
Pick the eSIM to provide data.
Make sure the roaming is on.

How To Choose The Best eSIM Provider For USA Travel?

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s look at how to choose the best travel eSIM provider for the United States.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing an eSIM provider, including:

Coverage: Make sure the eSIM provider has good coverage in the United States. In short, the eSIM should use a good network in the USA.
Data: How much data do you need? You’ll need a plan with more data if you’re a heavy user.
Speed: Not all eSIM providers offer the same speeds. If you need fast speed, make sure to choose a provider that offers 5G or LTE.
Price: eSIM plan prices can vary, so consider your budget when choosing an eSIM provider. You can compare a few options to get the best value for your money.

Where To Buy A USA eSIM?

eSIMs for USA travel can be bought from eSIM providers.

Many eSIM shops sell eSIMs directly from their websites. This is the most convenient option, as you can activate your eSIM immediately.

Some eSIM apps like Ubigi allow you to purchase a plan without data or WiFi.

So, how do you pick an eSIM provider?

Let us help! We’ll review the best eSIM for US travel below.

Nomad eSIM USA

Nomad offers data plans in 100+ countries. They offer plans in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. They also have regional and global plans.

I’ve tried Nomad, and it worked well. Although, it’s not my favorite because they only have short-term plans (up to 60 days, but mostly 30 days).

Here’s an overview of the plans available in the United States:

1GB, valid for 7 days for $4
3GB, valid for 15 days for $10
5GB, valid for 15 days for $14
10GB, valid for 30 days for $24
12GB, valid for 30 days for $26
15GB, valid for 30 days for $30
20GB, valid for 30 days for $33
30GB, valid for 30 days for $50
40GB, valid for 30 days for $65
50GB, valid for 30 days for $80
100GB, valid for 60 days for $240

Go to Nomad

Nomad Offer

Get $3 off on your first purchase on Nomad by using my referral code: MELI23HJ.

Airalo eSIM USA

Airalo is the most popular eSIM store and offers eSIMs in 200+ countries at affordable prices.

I’ve been using Airalo for a while now, and you can read our complete Airalo review to learn more about this eSIM provider.

Here’s an overview of the Airalo plans available in the United States:

1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
2 GB, valid for 15 days for $8
3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11
5 GB valid for 30 days for $16
10 GB, valid for 30 days for $26
20 GB, valid for 30 days for $42

Go to Airalo

Airalo Offer

Get 10% off your first purchase on Airalo by using my referral code: ABB10.

Get A Discount Now

AloSIM eSIM USA

aloSIM is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 130+ regions and countries. You’ll find many affordable local and regional eSIM plans.

To learn more, you can read our complete aloSIM review .

1GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
2GB, valid for 15 days for $8
3GB, valid for 30 days for $11
5GB, valid for 30 days for $16
10GB, valid for 30 days for $26
20GB, valid for 30 days for $42

Go to aloSIM

AloSIM Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my AloSIM promo code: ABB5. To add a coupon code, you’ll need to enter it as a voucher when choosing a payment method.

Yoho Mobile eSIM USA

Yoho Mobile is an eSIM provider offering plans in 190+ regions and countries. You’ll also find plans in individual countries, and you’ll find regional plans for Europe and Asia.

To learn more, you can read our complete Yoho Mobile review .

All the Yoho Mobile USA plans come with unlimited calls and SMS.

Unlimited, valid for 5 days for $8.88
Unlimited, valid for 7 days for $11.66
Unlimited, valid for 10 days for $14.88
Unlimited, valid for 15 days for $20.99
Unlimited, valid for 20 days for $26.96
Unlimited, valid for 25 days for $33.99
Unlimited, valid for 30 days for $29.88
Unlimited, valid for 60 days for $60

Go to Yoho Mobile

Yoho Mobile Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my Yoho Mobile promo code: abrokenbackpack5. To add a coupon code, click on View Cart and paste the coupon code there.

Holafly eSIM USA

Holafly is an eSIM provider with eSIM plans for more than 190 destinations.

I tried Holafly before, so you can read our complete Holafly review to learn more.

Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for $21
Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for $29
Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for $37
Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $51
Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $62
Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $75
Unlimited data, valid for 60 days for $107
Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for $139

Go to Holafly

Holafly Offer

Get 5% off your first purchase on Holafly with my referral code ABROKENBACKPACK.

SimCorner eSIM USA

SimCorner offers data plans in 80+ countries. They offer both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans. You can pick between a local and a regional plan depending on your travel plans.

I’ve tried SimCorner, and it worked great.

However, I needed to wait a few hours to receive my eSIM. If you wish to purchase an eSIM plan on SimCorner, I recommend buying it a few days before your trip. This way, you’ll have it on time for your trip.

Learn more by reading our SimCorner review .

10GB, valid for 30 days for $40, including calls and SMS for $40
Unlimited data, valid for 30 days, including calls and SMS for $50

Go to SimCorner

SimCorner Offer

Get a 5% discount with our promo code: ABBPTravel.

Ubigi eSIM USA

Ubigi offers eSIM plans in 200+ countries. You can pick between a local, regional, or global plan depending on your travel plans.

I’ve tried Ubigi, and it worked great. You can even purchase a plan in the app without WiFi or the Internet, which is great. You’ll also choose if you want a one-off plan or a monthly subscription.

Learn more by reading our Ubigi review .

500MG, valid for 1 day for €2.90
3GB, valid for 30 days for €11
10GB, valid for 30 days for €24
50GB, valid for 30 days for €88
200GB, valid for 30 days for €200

Go to Ubigi

Ubigi Offer

There are no offers at the moment.

BNESIM eSIM USA

BNESIM is an eSIM provider that was founded in 2017. They offer plans in 200+ countries. You’ll also find other options like international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and monthly subscriptions.

To learn more, you can read our complete BNESIM review .

1GB, no expiration for $6.73
3GB, no expiration for $19.58
5GB, no expiration, for $31.61
10GB, no expiration for $60.56
20GB, no expiration for $118.48

Go to BNESIM

BNESIM Offer

Get a EUR 4 discount on your first purchase over EUR 10 with my BNESIM promo code: MELISSA4OFF.

Onesim eSIM USA

Onesim is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 125+ regions and countries. All their eSIM plans are regional or global, which means you’ll get coverage in multiple countries.

To learn more, you can read our complete Onesim review .

1GB, valid for 7 days for $4.90
3GB, valid for 30 days for $11.90
5GB, valid for 30 days for $18.90
10GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90
20GB, valid for 30 days for $59.90

Go to Onesim

Onesim Offer

Get a 10% discount on your first purchase with my Onesim coupon code: BACKPACK10. To add a coupon code, you’ll see an option that says, “Have a coupon? Click here to enter your code”.

eSIM Plans Available In North America

If you’re traveling to other countries in North America, here are the best eSIMS for North America.

These usually include travels in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

That said, if you travel only to one country in North America, you might want to consider a local plan instead.

Holafly North America

Holafly offers plans that cover the United States, Canada, and Mexico :

SimCorner USA, Canada And Mexico

SimCorner offers 2 different plans for the United States, Canada and Mexico:

15 GB, valid for 30 days for $47 (including calls and SMS)
Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $62 (including calls and SMS)

Onesim USA And Mexico

Onesim offers plans to facilitate your travels in North America but only includes the United States and Mexico.

You’ll also get coverage in 46 countries (mainly Europe and Asia).

Here’s an overview of the plans available:

1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.90
3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11.90
5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18.90
10 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90
20 GB, valid for 30 days for $59.90

SimOptions North America

SimOptions offers two plans to facilitate your travels in North America:

6 GB, valid for 10 days for $17.90
20 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90

AloSIM North America

AloSIM offers 4 different plans in North America:

1 GB, valid for 7 days for $8
3 GB, valid for 7 days for $21
5 GB, valid for 30 days for $32.50
10 GB, valid for 30 days for $50

Benefits Of Using An eSIM In The USA

eSIMs offer many benefits, which is excellent news if you’re a frequent traveler.

Here are the main reasons why I love using eSIM:

You get data as soon as you arrive.
You can activate your eSIM immediately.
You can keep your usual phone number and use eSIM to get data.
You don’t need to remove your SIM card or find a store to purchase one during your travels.
You can top up quickly.

woman using data abroad with her esim card

Final Thoughts On The Best eSIM USA

There are many eSIM providers out there, but not all of them offer the same coverage in the United States.

I can say that they’re all excellent eSIM providers with great eSIM plans.

The cheapest plans are offered by Nomad , followed by Airalo and AloSIM . However, of the three, I believe Airalo provides the best customer support and user experience.

If you prefer using an unlimited plan in the USA, we recommend Yoho Mobile because their plans include Voice and SMS, too. However, their plans are capped at 60 days.

If you need unlimited data for 90 days, Holafly is the only option available.

Finally, if you’d rather have a plan without an expiration date, BNESIM is the only eSIM provider offering plans without expiration.

Planning your trip to the USA? Read one of the following guides:

USA SIM card
Niagara Falls 2 day itinerary
Easy hikes in Sedona

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NZ/Austraila/Fiji

United Kingdom

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Protective Adult Cloth

eSIM For International Travel

Unlimited Data of 5G/4G Data

Unlimited Calls to standard US and Hawaiian mobile and landline numbers.

(Optional add on for international calls available)

Unlimited SMS to standard US mobile numbers.

30 Days of service from activation date

Not Included

30 days of service from activation

Unlimited standard Minutes within EU

25€ credits included for calls to international numbers such as Australia, USA, Canada and other countries

200GB of Data

Not Included.

6GB of Data

Not included

15 Days of service from activation

Unlimited Minutes to NZ Mobiles and standard Landlines

200 International Minutes to Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, UK and USA

Unlimited SMS to NZ Mobiles

200 International SMS to Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, UK and USA

60 Days of service from activation

Unlimited Data in USA, Hawaii, Alaska
25GB Data in Canada and Mexico

Unlimited Calls to standard US, Canadian and Mexican mobile and landline numbers.

Unlimited SMS from USA, Canada and Mexico to over 100 countries including; Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Germany.

10GB of 5G/4G Data

15GB of 5G/4G Data

30GB of 4G Data

15 Day service

15 days of service from activation

450GB of Data

Unlimited Minutes within UK to standard UK landlines and mobiles

28 days service from activation.

15GB of Data

8 Day service

24GB of Data

500 Local Minutes to use locally within the covered country (mobiles and standard landlines)

180 Days of service from activation

International Travel SIM Cards

12GB of Data

Unlimited Minutes within the EU

Unlimited SMS within the EU

30 days service from activation.

10GB of Data

Unlimited Minutes within Europe

Unlimited SMS within Europe

25GB of Data

Unlimited SMS to UK mobiles

Unlimited Minutes to New Zealand Mobiles and Standard Landlines

Unlimited SMS to New Zealand Mobiles

60 Days of service from activation

Dream More, Travel Later

Travelling and wandering the world is quite the adventure, but sharing memories and staying in touch with those who matter shouldn’t come at a cost. Our prepaid International travel SIM cards make sure your globetrotting doesn’t come with hefty roaming fees and that you stay connected with ease.

Why Travellers Love Us

Who needs the stress of static? We make sure you stay connected with prepaid International SIM cards on offer for most popular travel destinations.

Convenience

No roaming fees, hidden fees, or extra costs! We’ve partnered with some of the largest telecommunications service providers across the globe to ensure that our travellers get the best deal possible.

Customer Service

Need help? Travel suggestions? Trouble finding the right plan? Our customer service team go the extra mile to offer you the support you need no matter where you are.

About SimCorner

Travelling to Europe , Africa , Asia , the United Kingdom , South America , NZ , Fiji or Middle East ? No matter where you’re going in the world, SimCorner is the one you can rely on for a cheap travel SIM and eSIMs that keeps you connected to your loved ones, and allows you to document every moment of your trip in real time.

Prepare for any adventure with an international travel SIM card that can be conveniently and quickly delivered right to your door in the US. With a SimCorner prepaid travel SIM, you’ll be ready to begin your journey as soon as you land without having to worry about searching for a SIM card to use your phone.

What Sets Us Apart

When you choose SimCorner, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you’ll never miss an important message, get stranded, or need to borrow a stranger’s phone in an emergency. We provide travellers with cheap international SIM cards, reliable coverage, convenient delivery, and exceptional customer service. Experience the difference of a SimCorner travel SIM on your next trip abroad.

SimCorner is proud to offer the most competitive prices on international travel SIM cards in America. If you happen to find a better deal anywhere else, we’ll beat it by 10%, according to our Price Beat Guarantee .

Get in touch

If you need any assistance finding a SIM card for overseas travel, reach out to our friendly team who will be happy to help.

What is a prepaid SIM card?

Prepaid SIM cards are an excellent option for staying connected with family and loved ones while traveling. They offer the convenience of not worrying about expensive roaming charges, and you can often find deals that include data and minutes for phone calls at a fraction of the cost of using your regular cell phone plan!

Instead of relying solely on an uninterrupted Wifi connection to access your device’s internet, you can count on your prepaid SIM to have your data covered throughout all your travels.

The benefits of an International Travel SIM card

While communication apps like Whatsapp or Viber are handy to keep in touch with loved ones back home when you have a Wifi connection, they’re not a consistently reliable communication source when traveling about on your daily adventures. After all, WiFi isn’t always readily available, particularly when you’re sightseeing or visiting remote locations.

To ensure your safety in a foreign country, a prepaid Travel SIM is your best bet to stay connected with people back home. You can also confirm reservations with your accommodation and have constant access to all your contacts in the case of any emergency.

If you’re traveling overseas, a travel SIM card for your relevant destination will be a far cheaper option than accessing your phone’s global roaming. You’ll have a certain amount of features included, so no hidden fees or roaming charges.

Investing in a travel SIM card allows you to post your exciting travel photos on social media and send regular updates to family and friends without thinking twice! To avoid the high cost of using your domestic phone plan internationally, reap the benefits that an international travel SIM card has to offer.

What’s involved in getting a prepaid Travel SIM for your travel destination?

To buy a travel SIM card in the US for your travel destination, you simply need to go to SimCorner and choose a SIM option from a range of sim cards with reasonable data allowances for a price that suits your budget. Shopping for a SIM is now easier than ever. Opting for a SIM from SimCorner is guaranteed to make shopping for your travel SIM card a far smoother experience.

To avoid the hassle of sourcing a SIM once you arrive at your overseas destination, we highly recommend exploring SimCorner’s one-stop shop for prepaid SIM cards in the US that cover countries across the globe to suit your travel needs.

Travel SIM cards for every destination

Discover our range of travel SIM card options for countries all across the globe. Whether you’re traveling to the beautiful beaches of Europe or Brazil or looking to explore the busy streets of London, buying our prepaid SIM cards has never been easier.

SimCorner — your one-stop shop for travel accessories

Traveling and wandering the world is quite an adventure — for most of us, it doesn’t come soon enough. At SimCorner, we prioritize our customers above all else. After all, sharing memories and staying in touch with those who matter shouldn’t come at a cost. That’s why our prepaid international travel SIM cards ensure that your globetrotting adventures don’t come with hefty roaming fees. You can easily stay connected, book activities, and accommodation to watch a TV show during long travel commutes by train or plane.

To kickstart your adventures, explore our travel blog for some helpful tips on sights to see and travel hacks to save you some money! Stay prepared for your trip with our selection of accessories and avoid the horrible realization that you have an incompatible charging adapter. From portable power banks to adapters and journals to document your travels, we’ve got you covered. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team, who will be more than happy to help.

Why do you need a travel SIM card?

A travel SIM card is a great option for staying connected while traveling. They offer the convenience of not having to worry about roaming charges, and you can often find deals that include data and minutes for phone calls at a fraction of the cost of using your regular cell phone plan.

By opting for a prepaid SIM card in the US from SimCorner, you’ll have no last-minute surprises and can guarantee an easy setup with its simple functionality. You can count on your prepaid SIM to have you covered with data throughout all your travels. That way, you can post all your travel photos on the go, keep in touch with loved ones back home and rest assured that you have access to your phone.

Which international travel SIM card is best?

While there are various international travel SIM cards on the market, none offer the generous inclusions of feature like the travel SIM card you can find at SimCorner. With no extra costs, roaming, or hidden fees, we’ve partnered with the world’s largest telecommunication services worldwide to ensure our travelers can enjoy the best possible deal wherever their adventures take them. If you’re unsure of which SIM to choose, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team, who will be happy to advise you on the right plan.

What makes SimCorner prepaid SIM cards easy to use?

If it’s a prepaid SIM card you’re after for your overseas travels, SimCorner could not be any easier — it is almost effortless to set up. Follow the steps below to install your SIM card and enjoy the ability to book activities and accommodation, and browse social media anywhere in the world:

Order your SIM — Order your travel SIM card online and select the delivery method that best suits your travel date. SimCorner delivers to many countries worldwide, dispatching our competitive prepaid SIM cards from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Unlock your device — Once your international travel SIM card has arrived, ensure your device is unlocked before you board your flight. Being on a post-paid plan or contract with your local carrier doesn't mean your phone is locked. If you’re unsure, we recommend you check with your current service provider. So long as your device is unlocked, it will be compatible with our prepaid SIM cards unless stated otherwise.
Connect your SIM — Insert your SIM card into your phone as soon as you land and stay connected immediately!

How about shipping & delivery for prepaid SIM cards?

If you and your family or friends require international travel SIM cards, you’ve come to the right place. You can buy prepaid SIM cards and have them delivered to your home anywhere in the USA. If your trip is right around the corner, there’s no need to fret. Our prepaid SIMS are dispatched for your convenience on the same or following business day.

All our USA orders are shipped directly from California, Arizona, Georgia or Illinois and delivered within 6-9 business days. Have an urgent order? We offer express delivery for an additional cost.

If you’re anxious about the wait time and want to know the status of your order, simply select a shipping option with tracking included, and you will receive a shipment confirmation with the tracking order via email. That way, you can keep track of your order status leading up to your trip.

How do I inquire about a prepaid SIM?

If you have any queries on which prepaid travel SIM card is the right fit for you, contact our team of experts, who will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Once you’ve selected your prepaid SIM, SimCorner takes it one step further with our handy travel blog that provides exciting travel tips on sights to see and travel hacks to save you some money! So what are you waiting for? Buying a prepaid SIM card could not be easier than SimCorner.

Can I use an eSIM for international travel?

Yes, eSIMs are excellent for international travel, as you can easily switch to a local carrier's plan without needing a physical SIM card.

Discover the benefits of using an eSIM for travel, whether you're heading to the USA, Europe, Japan, Asia etc. Our USA eSIM ensures you stay connected while exploring the States, while the Europe eSIM offers across multiple European countries. Traveling to Japan? Discover the convenience of a Japan eSIM . And if you're exploring Asia, our eSIM Asia covers you across the region. Say hello to easy, borderless connectivity with eSIM for travel. Stay connected, stay hassle-free.

Hear what they say...

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eSIM Technology: Changing the Way We Stay Connected

Discover eSIM-Compatible Phones: Is Your Device Ready?

Frequently asked questions.

Let’s face it — life’s pretty hard in the modern world without a smartphone. If you’re travelling overseas to a country where you don’t speak the language, planning an adventure a little off the beaten track, or just want to check the weather during your first night in a new town, you’re going to need a working phone. While your regular phone might be OK on the hotel Wi-Fi, only travel SIM cards can allow you to use phone data, send messages and make calls without racking up hefty roaming charges from your at-home mobile service provider.

The best prepaid SIM card depends on your destination. SimCorner offers international travel SIM cards for various regions, including Europe, USA, Canada, Mexico, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, UK, South America, Africa, and the Middle East. If your specific destination is not listed, you can still enquire with SimCorner to find the best option for staying connected

All of the international travel SIM cards from SimCorner are designed especially for travellers, pre-loaded with set features and without any hidden fees or expensive roaming data charges. Once you’ve bought your prepaid SIM, you’ll never be charged for anything extra when you start using it.

Our prepaid SIMS come with plenty of data, so you can make internet calls back home, and video loved ones from the top of a mountain or a sunny beach. Prepaid data allows you to easily check directions when you’re out and about and share images of your trip in real-time.

Plus, our travel SIM cards come with thousands of minutes of inter-SIM calls, meaning if you and a family member or friend both purchase one, it’s free to contact each other during your trip. How easy is that?

All of our prepaid SIMs have a 15-day or 30-day service period from the date of activation — so you won’t start using up your data before putting the travel SIM card into your phone.

Are you going to be away for longer, or are you planning on using some serious data while you’re away for remote work or long chats with Mum? Simply purchase multiple prepaid SIMs. Once you’ve used up your data on one, you can switch it out for a new prepaid SIM and keep connected.

Some of our travel SIM cards also come with an option to top up credit on your existing SIM. Before you buy one of our prepaid SIMs, you can check if this is the case under ‘Things to Know’ on the product page.

All of our international travel SIM cards are supplied by reputable telecommunications providers in different parts of the world. Using them is safe and easy, but you will need to make sure your mobile device is unlocked before you leave for your big holiday. Having a postpaid phone on a plan with a local carrier isn’t the same as having a locked device — but if you’re not sure, your mobile service provider can double-check for you and help you unlock your device for easy international use.

SimCorner offer different travel SIM cards. The phone number associated with your travel SIM card depends on the type of SIM you choose. Some SIMs come with phone numbers noted on the package, others get sent by the provider to your phone. For data-only SIMs, you won't have a local number, but you can use internet-based calling and messaging services; think WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Viber, Snapchat, Skype, iMessage or Signal.

Yep! A prepaid SIM won’t alter, delete or change any information on your phone — you’ll still be able to view your apps, messages and any other information saved to the handset. If your contacts are saved in the storage on your current SIM, it’s a good idea to transfer these to your phone’s internal storage or back them up so you can access them at any time. Your WhatsApp and Messenger contacts will all still be on your phone.

When you receive your travel SIM card from SimCorner, the first step you’ll need to do is register it with us. Then, wait until you’ve reached your destination to insert the SIM card into your phone — it will activate from anywhere in the world, so you want your daily countdown to start when you’ve arrived in the country. Make sure your mobile data and data roaming services are turned on and fully enabled so you’re ready to start taking in the sights and sounds like a local!

Most of our travel SIM cards are compatible with mobiles only, meaning they won’t work on iPads or other tablets. However, you can use your mobile as a hotspot to share data with other devices. SimCorner also offers specific data-only SIM options for iPads and tablets in certain countries and regions.

SimCorner offers around-the-clock support and a money-back guarantee on all of our prepaid SIM cards — you just need to let us know about any problems as they occur. When you reach your destination, we recommend activating your SIM card at the airport, so you have a Wi-Fi connection to reach out to customer support if anything doesn’t look right.

If you’ve been a clever clog and thought ahead with a prepaid SIM to your holiday destination, you might start to rest on your laurels. Don’t forget accessories to keep you in touch throughout your trip!

Shop our range of accessories to ensure you have all the travel essentials; from universal power adaptors to wireless phone charger power banks, we’ve got everything you need to stay connected no matter where you are in the world. While you’re there, why not pick up a mask for the plane and a journal to keep all of your brilliant holiday thoughts in?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card embedded directly into a device's hardware. It allows users to switch between mobile carriers and data plans without the need for a physical SIM card. eSIMs offer flexibility and convenience"

To use an eSIM, your phone must support the technology. Check our comprehensive list to see if your device is eSIM-compatible."

If you’ve got a solo trip, a family holiday or a big adventure with the gang planned, a prepaid SIM card will keep you in touch with those back home and prepare you for any challenges that come your way.

To pick the right data plan and prepaid SIM for your holiday, get in touch with our friendly team today. We’ll be able to talk you through all the options available and set you up with the best value plan that will suit your needs.

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The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in the USA in 2024

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

These days, it’s almost impossible to imagine visiting a foreign country without mobile connection. You may need to call a rideshare, find your hotel on maps, connect to the internet when away from Wi-Fi, or translate signs in a foreign language.

However, using international roaming with your home carrier to get data could cost hundreds of dollars. This is why prepaid eSIM cards are the fastest growing option for international tourists who own an eSIM-compatible device.

In this guide, you’ll find the 5 best prepaid SIM and eSIM options available for tourists in the United States in 2024, including their pricing and data plans. Let’s get going!

Airalo is our top choice to avoid expensive international roaming fees. Airalo offers eSIMs tailored to you, from 5 days up to months at a time, covering hundreds of countries, with both multi-country and various GB plans available.

The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in the USA For Travel in 2024

01. Where can I buy prepaid SIM cards in the United States? scroll down
02. Do I need to register my prepaid SIM in the United States? scroll down
03. Physical prepaid SIM cards in the USA scroll down
04. Best prepaid eSIMs in the United States scroll down
05. What are the largest mobile network operators in the USA? scroll down

Facts About Prepaid SIMs in the USA

Where to buy physical prepaid sim cards for the united states.

The market for physical prepaid SIM cards in the US isn't as developed for tourists as in other countries. It's not like other places where SIM card stalls eagerly await your arrival at the airport or are readily available at every phone store.

A man standing in an airport looking up at a flight schedule

1. American Airports

In the US, purchasing prepaid SIM cards at airports is generally not recommended. While this can be a viable option in many countries, SIM cards at American airports are often overpriced, and some airports don't even have stalls at all, such as JFK International Airport.

2. Network Provider Retail Stores in the USA

Heading to a T-Mobile branch is likely your best bet to find a reasonable physical prepaid SIM card. Verizon and AT&T also offer SIM cards at some of their stores. There, you'll find reliable SIM cards, but at standard to expensive prices.

You could also consider having a physical prepaid SIM card shipped to your house before you travel by shopping on online sites (like Amazon). You’ll often find small SIM card providers that partner with the large American networks (like T-Mobile or AT&T) to connect your phone to mobile data. You could even consider buying a portable Wi-Fi hotspot device.

Shopping online requires a little travel pre-planning but allows you to search around for better prices and data plans that meet your needs.

The easiest online option, and the one that we highly recommend, is to purchase an eSIM. These digital SIMs can be instantly activated straight from your smartphone from apps like Airalo and Holafly , which then give you seamless access to data in your travel destination.

Registration Process For Prepaid SIM Cards in the United States

In the United States, no registration is necessary, and you don't need to show your passport to the issuer.

It's worth noting that an increasing number of countries are requiring registration from mobile phone users for security reasons, where purchasing a prepaid SIM card requires consumers to provide proof of identity.

For the countries that have these Know-Your-Customer (KYC) laws, registration will also apply to eSIMs. However, eSIMs do have the benefit of digital registration as opposed to the hassle of an in-person process. If your eSIM is data only (no local phone number), then you may be able to get connected without registering your info.

Cheap Physical Prepaid SIM Card Options For USA Travel

Here are some of the most popular options for plastic SIM cards for tourists in USA:

1. T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers 3 different SIM card packages, all including unlimited calling & texting in the US. You’ll get max data speed on its 5G network valid for 1 month.

For $40, you can get a plan that includes 10 GB of data; for those in need of more, $50 provides unlimited data with a 3G hotspot. For the best connectivity experience, $60 grants unlimited data along with a 10 GB 4G hotspot, ensuring high-speed internet access for a friend.

2. AT&T

Both prepaid SIM card deals from AT&T include unlimited calls/SMS in the US, max data speed on 5G, and are valid for 1 month. You get a better rate if Autopay is on but remember to turn it off when you leave.

AT&T offers travel SIMs tailored for visitors to the USA, with two straightforward options: $30 for 5 GB of data or a larger package of 15 GB data available for $40 .

Best Digital Prepaid e-SIMs For Tourists in the United States

Want to ditch physical plastic SIM cards? You can conveniently download and active the following international eSIMs from your smartphone instead.

Airalo is an excellent eSIM provider for international travel. For the USA, they offer eSIMs from 1GB for 7 days at $4.50 up to 20GB for 30 days at $42, and other plans in between. It was super easy for us to set up in the app and purchase instantly.

More info: Read our Airalo review or visit their website .

Holafly offers unlimited data volume packages for international travel. Holafly's data packages for the USA cost between $21 and $139 once off and are valid from 5 to 90 days, offering peace of mind that you'll never run out of data.

Although Holafly offers unlimited data in most countries, including the USA, if you're a globetrotter, it's worth keeping in mind that Holafly offers limited data plans to some other destinations. Be sure to check their website or app before traveling to a new country to confirm whether Holafly's unlimited packages apply.

More info: Read our Holafly review or visit their website .

Yesim, a Swiss-based eSIM service, offers flexible plans for 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB. The pricing of these eSIMs for the United States range from $12.10 to $28.60.

The 3GB plan is good for 7 days while the 5GB one is good for 15 days. The 15GB and 30GB plans both last for 30 days.

To make sure your phone can support eSIM cards, read our list of eSIM-compatible phones .

Largest Mobile Network Operators in the United States

eSIMs are great because they connect to the best network available wherever you are. Your phone might connect to T-Mobile or AT&T, depending on your location, at no extra cost. In contrast, if you buy a SIM card directly from one American telecom provider, then your phone will only access that provider's network.

In the United States, expect to see these names as you connect to data on your travels:

Verizon: Known for its wide-reaching and reliable service across the entire country.
AT&T: AT&T (and Verizon) offer better coverage in remote areas compared to T-Mobile.
T-Mobile: Stands out for having the best 5G network.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prepaid SIM Cards For Travel in the USA

Yes, it is wise to plan ahead, but you can also opt for an eSIM even 24 hours before your trip if you have an eSIM-compatible phone. The best part about eSIMs like Airalo and Holafly is that the plans won’t activate until you connect within the plan’s designated country. This means you won’t be on the clock until your trip finally starts.

We believe Airalo offers the best prepaid eSIMs in the USA and around the world in 2024, with options that are 5G compatible, starting from 1GB for 7 days at $4.50 up to 20GB for 30 days at $42.

Check our list to make sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology.

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What are you looking for?

5 best usa esims for travel [tried + tested] 2024 guide].

When it comes to traveling savvy, eSIMS are my new favorite recommendation.

After years of stressing over finding a local sim *every* time I entered a new county (frustrating when you’re doing a lot of countries in one time period!), I no longer have to worry because of the convenience of eSIMS.

Now that there are SO many eSIMS on offer, it can be a little overwhelming. However, because there is so much competition, the quality and price have gotten better overall.

When in the USA, data can be quite restrictive, but these eSIMS will help make your travels throughout the USA a lot easier.

My current network in the UK (O2) does provide me with some data in the USA (as part of my monthly plan), but I cannot hotspot that data to my laptop, which is imperative to me running an online business.

So let’s have a look at what eSIMS are on offer for the USA!

In this guide I’m going to take you through:

What an eSIM is exactly
The advantages of eSIMs
The best eSIMs for the USA

Let’s get started …

Travellerspoint

What is an eSIM?

We’ve all heard of a traditional SIM card, which has been around for decades and have helped immensely when traveling somewhere new.

However these had their own limitations, such as higher costs and less flexibility.

This is where the new digital eSIM comes in, which are essentially an upgrade in various ways.

They act the same way as a usual SIM card, however everything is stored electronically inside your phone (no external chip needs to be removed or added).

Essentially this means that you can immediately swap to a different mobile phone provider as soon as you arrive in a new country and get a signal, instead of having to manually find a new SIM and install it.

There are also many other benefits to using an eSIM in the USA, such as having low costs and being more versatile (we’ll explore these benefits later in this guide).

What phones are compatible with eSIMs?

iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
iPhone SE (2020, 2022)
Apple watch series 3, 4, 5 and 6
Apple watch SE
All iPads with 4G connectivity that have come out since 2018 support eSIM:
iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068, from 2020)
iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069, from 2020)
iPad Air (model A2123, from 2019)
iPad (model A2198, from 2019)
iPad Mini (model A2124, from 2019)
Galaxy S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
Galaxy Note 20, 20+, 20 Ultra
Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3
Galaxy Z Flip, Flip 3
Samsung Watch (through Samsung wearable application)
The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G is not compatible with eSIM.
Google Pixel 2 (only phones bought with Google Fi service), 2 XL
Google Pixel 3 (not including phones bought in Australia, Taiwan or Japan. Phones bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi don't work with eSIM), 3a (not including phones bought in Japan or with Verizon service), 3a XL, 3 XL
Google Pixel
Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
Google Pixel 5, 51
Google Pixel 6, 6 plus

Other ESIM Compatible Devices

Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro (The Huawei P40+ is not compatible with an eSIM)
Oppo Find X5, X5 Pro, X3 Pro
Oppo Reno 5A, Reno 6 Pro 5G
Sony Xperia 10 IV, 10 III Lite
Honor Magic 4 Pro
Fairphone 4
Motorola Razr 2019
Nuu Mobile X5
Rakuten Mini
Microsoft Surface Duo

So to summarize, pretty much all phones can work with an eSIM.

There’s a good chance they can also work with multiple eSIMs at the same time too (which brings even more benefits), however you’ll want to do some independent research on the type of phone you have before.

If your current phone isn’t on this list, then most likely it will not be compatible with an eSIM.

Can I use my current mobile provider's international data plan?

You’ll find plenty of existing operators that allow you to use their own international plan in the USA.

Also known as Roaming, they allow you to connect to the internet without you having to physically change your SIM card.

The major downside to this is that they typically incur high charges for browsing, where you can easily spend over $15-25 a day if you’re not careful! (can be even more if you will watch videos or do any other activities that require heavy bandwidth usage).

If you’ll be working whilst traveling, then this won’t be ideal in either the short or long term, unless you don’t mind spending so much.

The other issue is that you may not have a good, consistent internet connection, and may find it drops down to 3G at times.

There’s also a cap too on your internet speed, especially if you’re using it frequently (where it can end up taking a while just to do a simple Google search).

Whenever I use O2 abroad, I am capped at around 25 GB and they will throttle my speed if I’m using it a lot.

They will also charge me more if I hotspot my connection to another device.

Advantages of eSIMs when traveling the USA

Lower Costs than Traditional SIMs - By far the biggest advantage of using an eSIM is that it is actually quite cheap. Whilst you would think it might be more (given it’s all electronically stored), the costs work out less. This is mainly due to you only needing just one eSIM for multiple countries , whilst you’d otherwise need to keep buying a new physical SIM card every time you travel to a new country. The other reason is that you won’t be paying for roaming internet fees abroad, whilst enjoying an overall better connection.
You Can Keep Your Own Number - This is another great reason you’ll want to use an eSIM, as you’ll be able to keep your own number and not have to keep re-adding existing contacts to your new sim. This is also important if you’re heading away for a long time (over 6-12 months), since some mobile providers can cancel your number if they see you aren’t using it or are not continuing to pay their usual monthly fees.
Quality and Consistent Internet Connection - As we’ve already mentioned, you’ll be connecting to local internet networks when using an eSIM. This means you’ll be getting the very best connection possible , instead of using an unstable roaming connection from your provider abroad. You’ll find this is also the case when heading to more remote areas of the USA, where there’s a good chance your roaming will have no signal.
Very Quick and Convenient - Usually once you’ve arrived after a long flight, you’ll either be tired or want to start exploring immediately. With an eSIM you can hit the ground running without delay , as you’ll automatically connect to the best local provider possible. This is in contrast with using regular SIM cards, where you’ll need to go out and find local chips in a market, compare between them etc.

BEST eSIMs for USA Travel

1. maya mobile - best esims for the usa with unlimited data.

Maya is one of our personal favorites when it comes to eSIMs, and especially so here in the USA given the variety of benefits they offer.

A US based company, they now operate in 190 countries worldwide and provide some of the most high value eSIMS around.

Their prepaid eSIMs are really useful, where you can select plans between 5-30 days. They’re generous with the data you’ll receive too, and for example on the 30 day prepaid plan (which costs $40) you can receive as much as 40GB!

Those who are heavy internet users can also select from their different unlimited data plans, which are perfect for hotspotting to your laptop or live streaming your favorite shows on the go.

You’ll also always have a really good connection too when in the USA with Maya, using some of the best 5G and 4G LTE roaming networks.

Maya even goes as far as providing a full money-back guarantee in case your SIM fails when out on the road in the USA. We think this makes it a no-brainer since you’ll either have a great eSIM service, or be fully covered in the event that something goes wrong.

Overall Maya is a great option for those who need fast connections as well as flexible data plans. The only downside is that their plans are a maximum of 30 days, and if traveling for longer than the costs can rack-up if buying multiple plans with them.

Advantages of Maya Mobile for the USA:

High-speed connections throughout the USA
Great for heavy data users
Money-back Guarantee in place in case something goes wrong with your eSIM

Disadvantages of Maya Mobile for the USA:

Maximum plan length of 30 Days
More costly than other available plans

2. Airalo - Best Coverage Options for the USA

Another popular eSIM choice for those heading to the USA is Airalo, who provide plans for over 200 countries across the planet.

One of the best benefits of going with them is the fact that they provide not only eSIMS for the USA, but also regional and global plans too which is perfect if you are planning a longer trip to multiple countries .

If you are staying just in the USA, you’ll find options as cheap as $4.50 which includes 1GB for 7 days, all the way to their longest plan of 30 days, where you’ll get 20GB for $21.00.

Their regional plans also last for 30 days, where you’ll be covered in the USA as well as Canada and Mexico. For $46.00 you’ll be gifted 10GB to use throughout all three countries as you wish during your trip.

If you plan on going on a much longer trip, then you can select from their global plans. Their longest plan covers you for a total of 365 days, where you’ll have 20GB to use in over 120 countries as well as the USA for $69.00.

Overall Airalo offers one of the greatest ranges of eSIMs for the USA, which is great if you plan on traveling for longer here (or to numerous other countries on the same trip).

The main disadvantage of using Airalo is that most of their eSIMS only support data, however not local phone calls or messages (although you can easily get around this by using WhatsApp).

Advantages of Airalo for the USA:

They offer a range of local, regional and global eSIM plans
Really intuitive and helpful app

Disadvantages of Airalo for the USA:

Most plans can’t make local calls or send messages to local numbers

3. SimOptions - Best eSIM for Reputation and Reliability

Next we have SimOptions, who are another highly-trusted company that offers plans and coverage in over 200 nations worldwide.

One of the biggest benefits of using SimOptions is that they are very flexible, and support the use of multiple eSIMS on the same device .

This means you can have one for data and also another for local calls if this is something that you’ll need during your trip.

Their cheapest eSIM starts at just $4.90, which includes 1GB data for a total duration of 30 days. Their longest (and most expensive plan) costs $34.90, which includes 20GB and also lasts for 30 days. All of these eSIM options support the use of hotspotting too which is useful.

Overall SimOptions is a great option for those who want a cheap option or are on a shorter trip, although you won’t receive as much data as other companies (so you’ll need to watch your daily use).

Advantages of SimOptions for the USA:

Cheap eSIM Packages
Support Hotspotting

Disadvantages of SimOptions for the USA:

Short eSIM Durations

4. Nomad - Best eSIM App for the USA

Nomad is another eSIM giant who operates in over 135 countries around the planet, and also offers a neat range of plans for those heading to the USA.

One of the major advantages of using Nomad is that you’ll have access to their really useful app , which shows you your usage (and how much data you have left), and also makes it quick and easy to extend your plan.

Their cheapest plan begins at just $6, which includes 1GB for 7 days. Their longest plan runs for 30 days, where you’ll have 20GB included for just $25.

Nomad also allows you to tether and hotspot your connection, making it a great option for those who plan to work on their trip (or share data with friends and family).

Overall Nomad is a solid option for those who will visit the USA for a shorter trip. If you do plan on heading longer, then you may want to look at other options given the costs are higher here (with not as much data included).

Advantages of Nomad for the USA:

Awesome app where you can easily track usage and renew your plan
Great for travelers on shorter trips

Disadvantages of Nomad for the USA:

Plans last a maximum of 30 days, and have low data caps

5. Holafly - Best eSIM for the USA with Unlimited Calls!

Holafly is another highly rated eSIM provider, who have plenty of great reviews from customers who have used their various plans.

They provide a range of eSIM lengths for the USA, which start from 5 days up to 90 days. By far the biggest advantage of using Holafly is the fact that all of their plans include unlimited data, which means you can really relax and not worry about how you use your data daily.

The costs of Holafly’s eSIM cards are some of the more expensive options on the market, however are still of high value considering their unlimited internet usage. The 5 day plan costs $19.00, whilst those traveling for a month can purchase their 30 day eSIM for $64.00. Lastly we have their 90 day plan which costs $99.00.

The other advantage of using HolaFly is that you will have direct access to their useful and quick-to-respond customer support team, and also that they offer a North American regional plan if you also want to visit Canada or Mexico on the same trip.

Overall Holafly is perfect for heavy data users, although you’ll be limited just to your own device. One of the biggest disadvantages (unfortunately) is the fact that you cannot share or transfer data - which to be honest makes sense since you are getting unlimited data after all!

Advantages of Holafly for the USA:

Unlimited data plans
Very responsive customer service team available in 7 different languages

Disadvantages of Holafly for the USA:

They don’t allow Hotspotting
Plans are more expensive than other options

Which eSIM will you go for?

And that’s all for our guide on the best eSIMS to use when traveling to and around the USA.

eSIMS are a really useful tool to use when traveling abroad, and we think are a must-have when heading to the USA (or any other country for that matter).

Not only will you have high-speed connections at an affordable price , you’ll also find various plans to have distinct advantages (such as regional bundles or high data plans for hotspotting to your other devices).

In this guide we’ve covered why using an eSIM is much better than a traditional SIM card, as well as 5 of the best eSIM companies you can use when in the USA.

Which eSIM do you think you’re getting for your next trip?

Do you have a particular brand that we haven’t included?

Comment below and let us know your thoughts!

Looking for more eSIM guides?

Best eSIMS for Travel
Best eSIMS for Europe
Best eSIMS for South East Asia

Let us know what you think.

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USA Travel SIM Card

Calls to Australia

USA, Canada & Mexico Travel SIM Card

Unlimited Data
Local Calls & Texts

USA T-Mobile Travel SIM Card

Usa prepaid travel sim card.

So you plan on visiting the United States of America..?

Great choice! A country home to 50 different states with each of them offering unique things to do and see, you’ll be spoilt for choice during your USA adventures (what a great problem to have!).

Being the third largest country in the world, the US has over 300 million people living in it and spans 4,500 kilometres from east to west and 2,400 kilometres from north to south.

It is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world such as The Statue of Liberty, The Golden Gate Bridge, the Las Vegas Strip and Niagara Falls (to name a few). There are so many things to do in the US that you could spend 3 years exploring the country and still not see all of the amazing things it has to offer.

We mean it when we say this place has something for everyone, deserts, beaches, snow, mountain ranges, forests, concrete jungles, open plains, wastelands, you'll never run out of picturesque backgrounds for your travel selfies.

There are also a ton of different cultures being represented in the US, from experiencing different foods, to music, to general ways of life, you’ll return from your adventures with a sense of soul-nourishing fulfilment that can only be achieved by adapting your ways of living to suit that of a foreign culture.

About Our USA Prepaid Travel SIMs

Say goodbye to all roaming fees and travel connected with our hassle-free, high-data-speed, USA prepaid SIM cards. Simply insert our SIM card into your device and you’re all set.

With fuss-free activation, a 100% money-back guarantee , and an Aussie support team ready and waiting to assist you with any questions or concerns, you can travel connected worry-free anywhere within the USA (including Hawaii).

Where can you use our USA travel SIMs?

We have a selection of travel SIM cards for travellers who want to explore the United States of America (including Hawaii).

Which USA travel SIM do we recommend?

We have a few options for our USA-only SIM Cards, our 6GB (includes calls to Australia) , our 15GB (includes calls to Australia) , our Unlimited Data & Calls (includes calls to Australia) , and our Unlimited Data & Calls (DOES NOT include calls to Australia) , all of the mentioned SIMs last 30 days and work anywhere in the US & Hawaii, EXCLUDING Alaska.

For those travelling to the USA, Canada & Mexico SIM Cards, we have our 6GB (data only) [15 days], our 15GB (data & calls) [30 days], and our Unlimited (data & calls) [30 days]. All three of the mentioned SIM cards include Hawaii and Alaska.

For our USA and Canada-only SIMs, we recommend our 3GB (data only) SIM card . Please note this SIM lasts 30 days and does NOT include Hawaii and Alaska.

Connect fuss-free as soon as you land with our prepaid travel SIM cards. Buy your travel SIM today! We recommend you check out Smart Traveller site before you take off

Where It Works

It works anywhere in the U.S. including Hawaii! It does not include Alaska or Canada.

Albania, Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Guam, Honduras, Mexico, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, United States of America (Includes Hawaii), Uruguay

The best SIM card for NZ

You have booked your trip to NZ and now you're thinking... What's the best NZ SIM card for my trip?

Well you're in the right place 👍

Here, you can find the best value NZ SIM cards that are super easy to use so when you land you will connect instantly and avoid the chaos of buying a SIM at the airport.

Keep reading or watch our video with all the available options so you can make the right choice.

All your options, compared.

Best bang for your buck: The 10GB New Zealand SIM

Other Aussie travellers like you rated the 10GB option the best with over 800+ 5 star Reviews.

Below are our options compared with Vodafone and Spark mobile, the major providers in New Zealand.

Small Plans

For the budget traveller looking to save money.

Best suited for minimal data users
Research restaurants, places and sites on the go
Use google maps for your travels

200 mins & texts in NZ
100 mins & texts to Aus
30 day validity

300 mins to NZ & Aus
Unlimited texts to NZ & Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here.

Medium Plans

The 'all rounder'. There's a reason that Aussie travellers love this one.

Get this one if you:

Want best bang for your buck
Need access to a lot of apps including maps, social media etc.
Unlimited mins & texts in NZ
200 mins & texts to Aus
60 day validity
Unlimited calls to NZ & Aus
300 mins & texts to Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here .

Large Plans

For the traveller who needs heavy internet usage on the go for 1 or multiple devices.

Don't worry about running out of data
Can hotspot to multiple devices
Great for videos, maps, social media and big downloads
Unlimited calls & texts in NZ

Bottom Line

You are looking for the right SIM for your needs and want to make the right choice so you can travel around New Zealand easily.

By choosing one of the SIM cards through SimsDirect you are avoiding the hassle when you land and getting the best value SIM cards for Aussie travellers.

Plus you get free delivery and 100% money back guarantee with every purchase.

You can't go wrong with the SimsDirect 10GB SIM that comes with unlimited calls & texts to NZ and Australian numbers.

Shipping and Delivery

Frequently asked questions.

Delivery times vary depending on your location, please use the table below for estimated delivery times.

Shipping Method:

Standard - Free Express - $7.99

All orders are shipped from our Sydney office using the Australia Post Domestic Letter Service.

Same-day dispatch is available on orders placed before 3pm AEST/AEDT Monday - Friday. Any orders placed after 3 pm will be dispatched the next day.

Once we've shipped your order, you will receive a tracking number via email. Click the View Order button in the email to monitor the status of your delivery with Australia Post.

If you're leaving soon and your order hasn't arrived, please contact us so we can arrange to have it delivered to you with free express shipping. It is important to us that we ensure your SIM card(s) arrive well before you take off.

Product Information

Yes! We offer 3 different sizes for each SIM card - Standard, Micro, and Nano. All you need to do is make sure that you pop out the correct size that is compatible with your device.

The SIM will only activate once you have inserted it into your device, which, in most cases, is when you have arrived at your destination.

You can find more specific activation steps here .

Zero. We're here to help you save money whilst abroad. With our SIM cards, you'll get all the data and outgoing calls that you pay for without any added surcharges or hidden costs. For as little as $2 a day, we offer the cheapest way of staying online while you're travelling.

If you purchased your device outright then it is most likely unlocked. Devices purchased alongside a contract are usually locked. If you are unsure, contact your service provider, they may even be able to unlock it for you (usually incurring a fee).

You’ll be able to track your data usage directly from your device, please click here for an in-depth guide on how to do so.

Travel easily & safely!

Travel tips for 2023, traveling the globe, check out the explorer collection.

Explorer Travel SIM Card

71 Countries
Balearic Islands
The Czech Republic
French Guiana
French West Indies
Isle of Man
Northern Ireland
Puerto Rico
Saint Barthelemy
Saint Martin
United States
US Virgin Islands

Tourist Travel SIM Card

120 Countries
China (including Tibet)
Congo (Democratic Republic of)
Congo Republic
Madagascar Republic
North Ireland
Northern Cyprus
Papua New Guinea
Slovak Republic
Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Not sure on your dates yet?

You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time.

What if you need to change the dates?

You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your order number so we can change it for you.

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Planning a trip? Here are the best eSIMs for international travel

Published on April 24, 2024

Traveling is exciting, but dealing with SIM cards can be a hassle. Thankfully, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are changing the game. You don’t have to put up with long queues for a new SIM or fumble with tiny plastic cards. You can get a local plan while in your country of origin and enjoy seamless connectivity before getting off the plane.

eSIMs are great, but with so many providers, how do you choose the right one? We’ve researched to find the best eSIM for international travel in 2024, whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that works with a chip built into your device. With a supported phone, you can get started from anywhere. Switching operators is as simple as getting a new carrier, scanning a code, and installing and activating the eSIM. This is in sharp contrast to the plastic physical SIM you have to get from the carrier and insert in your phone to get connectivity.

While eSIMs have been around for a while, they caught everyone’s attention when Apple made the bold move to go all-in on them, ditching the traditional SIM card slot altogether.

eSIMs aren’t just about convenience; they’re also eco-friendly. By eliminating physical cards, eSIMs reduce the amount of plastic waste the mobile industry generates. Plus, they free up space inside your device that manufacturers can use to fit in larger batteries or make it more sleek.

The real game-changer is how eSIMs enable 5G connectivity in devices that struggle to fit a SIM card, like smart glasses and fitness trackers . Their compact size makes them perfect for the next generation of connected gadgets.

Best eSIMs for international travel

We’ve covered some of the best eSIMs for international travel, whether you’re taking the trip alone or with loved ones.

Local, regional, and global plans
Customizable plans
150+ countries, seven regions
Some plans support data sharing
Unlimited data, SMS, and call options
Covers all regions
Expensive in Africa and America

Airhub is a global marketplace with eSIMs available in over 150 countries. Thanks to strategic partnerships with local companies, it offers several plans per destination that you can use to browse and, in some cases, send texts and make calls.

Local eSIMs cover over 150 countries. Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America. The Europe regional eSIM, for example, covers 48 countries, while the South American eSIM covers 18 countries. There are multiple global plans covering countries on all continents.

Airhub shows the network you’ll use at your destination. Plus, you can get unlimited data with SMS and voice minutes in certain countries and regions like Europe, North America, and South America. The Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasian eSIMs only offer capped data volumes without voice credits. Meanwhile, the global plans include data-only options and options with SMS and voice minutes.

Prices vary across regions. European and Eurasian plans are generally cheaper, while North and South American plans are more expensive. African plans are not available at the time of writing.

You can get started with Airhub using the company’s website or mobile application. Choose your destination country and prepaid eSIM data plan, and make payment using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal. You’ll receive a QR code to activate your eSIM.

Flexible, customizable plans
200+ countries, seven regions
Supports data sharing
Data validity up to 180 days
Data-only local and regional plans
Expensive in Africa
No unlimited plans

Airalo is regarded as the first-ever eSIM store globally and is a top choice for eSIMs thanks to its budget-friendly options and worldwide availability. It offers local, regional, and global eSIMs, with prices varying by destination and local data rates.

Local eSIMs cover over 200 countries. Local USA plans, for example, range from 1–20GB and are valid for 7–30 days. However, there are no unlimited plans.

Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North Africa, and North America. The Eurolink regional eSIM covers 39 European countries and offers as much as 100GB of data for 180 days, while the Island Hopper is good for 24 Caribbean islands.

Prices vary across regions. 1GB of data costs $5 for European and American regional plans, $15 for Caribbean, Latin America, and Middle Eastern regional plans, and $27 for an African regional plan.

The global eSIM plans cover 124 countries simultaneously and are perfect for interregional adventures. Local and regional plans only cover data, while global plans may be data-only or include data, calls, and texts.

To get started with an Airalo eSIM, download the app, create an account, select your destination and package, and install the eSIM. Payment methods include credit and debit cards, Paypal, Apple Pay (in some countries), Google Pay, Alipay (via the app), and Airmoney (Airalo’s reward currency).

Local and regional plans
Flexible plans with top-up options
175+ countries, 11 regions
Nifty data calculator
Free SMS and voice minutes via third-party
Referral-only loyal points
No global plans
No African or Middle Eastern regional plans

aloSIM is a Canadian tech company founded in 2022 that offers low-cost prepaid data eSIMs and a nifty data calculator that estimates data usage based on daily activities. This ensures you only pay for what you need.

aloSIM has local plans covering over 175 countries across all continents. Regional plans cover Europe, America, and some parts of Asia, with unique options for Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. However, regional offers are limited in Africa and the Middle East.

The European regional plan spans 34 countries and lets you buy 1–10GB of data for seven to 30 days, with the option to add more if needed. You can get 5GB of data for around $20. If your journey only takes you to the UK, a cheaper UK-Ireland plan that costs $20 for 10GB of data is available. Prices are more expensive in North and South America, with the same 10GB going for $50 or more.

Like Airalo, aloSIM shows you which networks you’ll be connected to and the speed availability before purchasing a plan. You also can’t get unlimited data. While the eSIMs do not include phone numbers for calling and texting, aloSIM offers free numbers with voice minutes and SMS from its sister app, Hushed.

You can get started with aloSIM on the web or mobile app. There are three installation methods: Automatic, QR code, and manual.

170+ countries, 11 regions
Small regional price disparity
Prepaid SMS plans
Some eSIMs support data sharing
Data-only plans

Nomad was founded in 2020 and has headquarters in Silicon Valley. It has local, regional, and global plans.

Local eSIMs cover 170+ countries across all continents. Regional plans include Asia–Pacific, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and smaller three-country combinations. The global plan covers 109 countries.

You can see which network you’ll be connected to within your destination country and the speed. You can also top up your data when necessary. Note that there are no unlimited plans or options with voice minutes, but you can get separate SMS plans in the US and Canada at $4 for 100 texts lasting 30 days.

Prices vary by region. The European plan costs $5 for 1GB of data for seven days. Prices are similar for American and Asian plans. The African plans are slightly more expensive, starting at $11 for 1GB of data. But this is still significantly cheaper than Airalo’s $27 for 1GB.

170+ countries, seven regions
Two global coverage plans
Unlimited global and European plans
Offers eSIMs and physical SIMs
Pay-as-you-go option
Pricier in the Middle East and Africa
No info on destination networks
Auto-renewal feature
No data sharing

BNESIM was founded in 2017 in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island. It provides eSIMs and SIM cards in several countries and regions, but we’ll focus on eSIMs.

BNESIM offers local eSIM plans in over 170 countries. Its seven regional plans cover Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, Oceania, and South America. It has a global plan for 102 countries and a mini global plan for 56 countries, mainly consisting of North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia.

Aside from its base plans that renew automatically, BNE offers one-time plans with relatively shorter expiration dates and pay-as-you-go plans that never expire. It also provides unlimited European and global data plans with voice minutes — other plans are data-only.

You can top up your plan anytime using the app. However, you can’t see the network you’ll connect to within your destination country.

Local US plans start at €4.36 for 3GB of data lasting a month. It’s cheaper in European countries, costing about €3.96 for the same 3GB in the UK. Prices are higher in Africa and South America, with a rate of around €18.72/3GB and €15.34/3GB, respectively. Regional plans follow a similar pricing pattern.

190+ countries and some regions
Unlimited data plans in several locations
Small price disparity across regions

Holafly was founded in 2017 and has offices in Ireland, Columbia, Peru, and Thailand. It offers local and regional eSIMs with unlimited data in several locations.

Holafly eSIMs are available in over 190 destinations worldwide. Coverage includes countries, cities like Barcelona, and regions like Asia and Europe. Plans vary widely, with some places only offering fixed data bundles while others have unlimited volumes.

You can get unlimited data at a rate of €6/day and €19/5 days in Australia, Canada, Japan, the US, the UK, and several other places. Prices are slightly more expensive in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, with five days of unlimited data costing €29. The data volume is capped in several other countries.

Finding regional plans on the website is tricky. However, a quick search on the website brought up plans for Asia, Europe, Latin and North America, and the Caribbean.

The Holafly website highlights several details about your purchase, including the available networks in your destination and places that are likely to have high-speed internet. However, the plans are data-only, so you can’t make phone calls or send text messages, except with the Europe eSIM, which gives you 60 minutes of normal voice calls.

Holiday eSIM

Regional and global plans
Great European coverage
Plans include calls, SMS, and data
Poor coverage of other regions
Poor website design

Holiday eSIM is a top choice for travelers heading to Europe. Thanks to robust connections in nearly every European country, you can enjoy high-speed data wherever you are.

Holiday eSIM includes a French number in your plan, a rare find among eSIM providers. Its most popular plan costs £17.50 for 12GB of data in Europe, unlimited calls and texts in Europe, and 30 minutes and 200 SMS from Europe to anywhere in the world. There are other plans as well.

While its major offerings cover Europe, Holiday eSIM has Asia-only plans covering several countries. Aside from these two regions, every other location is part of a global plan that covers parts of Europe and other continents.

Thanks to the user-friendly Orange Holiday app, installing the eSIM is simple. Download the app, install the eSIM, and you’ll automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network. However, the Holiday eSIM website interface leaves a lot to be desired. Navigating through plans is challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Should you get an eSIM?

One of the most incredible things about eSIMs is their flexibility — you can store multiple eSIMs on your phone (up to eight or more in some cases) and activate them as needed without worrying about extra roaming charges.

If your current network offers free roaming, you might not need a travel-specific or local SIM. But if not, the hassle of finding a new operator and dealing with language barriers can be a real headache.

Security-wise, eSIMs have a leg up on physical SIMs. Since they’re not removable, they’re practically impossible to lose. And if your phone goes missing, tracking it through the eSIM is much easier than with a physical SIM that the perpetrator can remove.

While international roaming works the same way with physical and eSIMs, the real advantage of eSIMs is their flexibility. You can have multiple eSIMs from different countries saved on your device, making it a breeze to switch between them when you’re hopping from one country to another.

The best part? Switching between eSIMs is as easy as buying and activating a plan online. There is no need to juggle physical SIM cards or worry about losing your old number.

Which phones support eSIMs?

To use an eSIM, your phone must support the technology and be unlocked (not tied to any carrier). We’ll cover a list of phones with built-in eSIM support and how you can check if they’re unlocked.

To see if your iOS device supports eSIMs and is carrier unlocked:

Go to Settings > General > About .
Scroll down to Carrier Lock . If the device is unlocked, it will show No SIM restrictions .
For iOS 15 or higher, scroll down to Available SIM . For earlier versions, look for Digital SIM . If your phone supports eSIMs, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number.

Here are the iPhone models that support eSIMs:

iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
iPhone 11 series
iPhone 12 series
iPhone 13 series
iPhone SE 2 and 3
iPhone 14 series
iPhone 15 series

Here are the iPad models that support eSIMs:

iPad Pro 1st generation and newer
iPad Air 3rd generation and newer
iPad 7th generation and newer
iPad Mini 5th generation and newer

To check if your Android phone supports eSIMs:

Go to Settings > Network & Internet .
Tap on eSIM cards .
Your device is compatible if you see the “Download a SIM instead?” option.

You can also check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number by dialing *#06#.

Some popular high-end Android phones that support eSIMs include:

Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series
Samsung Galaxy Fold series
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
Google Pixel 4 series and newer (and older Google Fi Pixel phones)
Google Pixel Fold
Xiaomi 12T Pro and 13 series
Oppo Find X5 series
Huawei P40 series

This list is not exhaustive, and compatibility can vary based on where the device was manufactured. Check with your manufacturer to confirm.

Types of eSIMs

There are two main types of eSIMs: data-only and data with SMS and voice credits. Which one should you choose?

Data-only eSIM: As the name implies, a data-only eSIM only works for browsing. It connects you to major networks in your destination country so you can surf the web and use your favorite apps. While you can’t make phone calls with it, you can leverage apps like WhatsApp to speak with others over the web.
Voice, SMS, and data eSIM: This option is perfect for those seeking the whole package — calling, texting, and browsing. It usually comes with a separate phone number for this purpose. While most providers give you a fixed number of SMS messages or call minutes, some add this for free. Meanwhile, most unlimited data plans come with unlimited calls and texts.

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Buy Travel SIM Cards for USA in UK

Buy your USA Sim Cards from SimCorner and stay connected without worrying about hefty international roaming fees. Best value American Travel Sim Card with data before you fly! Perfect for UK Tourists.

Over 12,000+ Reviews across

10GB of 5G/4G Data

Unlimited Calls to standard US and Hawaiian mobile and landline numbers.

(Optional add on for international calls available)

Unlimited SMS to standard US mobile numbers.

30 Days of service from activation date

Unlimited Data

Unlimited Calls to standard US and Hawaiian mobiles and landline numbers.

15GB of Data

Unlimited Calls to standard US, Canadian and Mexican mobile and landline numbers.

Unlimited SMS from USA, Canada and Mexico to over 100 countries including; Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Germany.

AT&T Unlimited 4G Data SIM (USA , Canada, Mexico) I SimCorner

Unlimited Data in USA, Hawaii and Alaska

25GB Data in Canada and Mexico

15GB or 100GB Data

[eSIM] USA Travel SIM - 10GB (T-Mobile) | SimCorner

Unlimited Data of 5G/4G Data

(Optional add on for international calls available)

Unlimited SMS to standard US mobile numbers.

[eSIM] AT&T USA Travel SIM - 15GB (USA , Canada, Mexico)

15GB of 5G/4G Data

[eSIM] AT&T Unlimited Data eSIM (USA , Canada, Mexico)

Unlimited Data in USA, Hawaii, Alaska

15GB Data in the USA

Unlimited SMS from USA, Canada and Mexico to over 200 countries including; Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Germany.

AT&T Unlimited MAX Plus SIM (USA, Canada, Mexico) | Sim Corner

Unlimited Data in USA, Hawaii, Alaska and Mexico

25GB Data in Canada

500 Minutes International Calling to over 30 countries (includes, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Germany)

Unlimited SMS to USA, Canada and Mexico phone numbers

[eSIM] AT&T Unlimited MAX Plus (USA, Canada, Mexico) | SimCorner

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Best Prepaid SIM Cards for USA Travel in 2024

Planning a trip to the USA and want to stay connected hassle-free? Navigating the prepaid SIM card market in the USA might seem a bit complex, unlike the more advanced options in Europe and other parts of the world. However, don't worry; it's not as complicated as it appears, though it can be on the pricey side! Purchasing a SIM card for the USA is the optimal way to access data on your phone without racking up exorbitant roaming charges.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a USA SIM card: why to purchase one, up-to-date prices, the best 4G/5G network options, our personal recommendations, experiences buying a SIM card in the USA, the finest eSIM cards available for the USA, and insights into international SIM cards for use in the USA.

Here’s a rundown of frequently asked questions and the variations in USA prepaid SIM card plans that you can plug into your smartphone and avoid international roaming charges.

What is a US SIM card?

A prepaid US SIM card is an easy, affordable and convenient option to use your phone in the USA. Instead of paying for international roaming charges or opting for costly local prepaid smartphone plans, you can simply purchase a prepaid SIM card before your trip.

If they're US-based SIM cards from US carriers such as T-Mobile, AT&T like the ones we sell at SimCorner, they'll get assigned a USA phone number. If they're not US-based SIM cards, they might be roaming sim cards. They will still work in the USA but be assigned a UK number or Estonian number, etc.

At SimCorner, we recommend choosing a US-based SIM card from carriers like T-Mobile or AT&T for the best value, which includes unlimited calls, SMS, and data allowance, along with better coverage and data speeds.

Why Opt for a USA Prepaid SIM Card or USA eSIM for your Travel?

With the convenience of Wi-Fi everywhere, you might wonder why a prepaid SIM card or eSIM card is necessary. The answer is simple: to ensure you're connected on the go, beyond the confines of your hotel room. Whether you're hailing a ride, exploring local eateries, navigating with Google Maps, staying in touch with loved ones, managing your finances through banking apps, or even just scrolling through social media, a reliable data connection is indispensable. Moreover, relying solely on public Wi-Fi can be risky due to variable speeds and potential security vulnerabilities.

Purchasing a prepaid SIM card for the USA is incredibly straightforward, taking just a few minutes to activate. It's essentially a plug-and-play experience – insert the eSIM card into your unlocked device, and you're instantly connected. However, ensure your phone is compatible and unlocked to use either a prepaid physical SIM card or an eSIM card.

Where to Purchase a USA SIM Card

Arriving at international airports might not yield SIM card shops as easily as in other countries. Official retail stores, while trustworthy, sometimes neglect phone compatibility checks. Popular convenience stores like 7Eleven, CVS, and Walmart do offer options, albeit with limited staff knowledge. Alternatively, major train stations in cities like New York sometimes house SIM card kiosks.

If convenience is paramount, online shopping for e-SIM cards or physical prepaid SIM cards is your best bet. However, be cautious of third-party networks – opt for options from T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon to ensure optimal coverage and speed.

Why should you buy a USA SIM card in UK before you fly?

When you're travelling abroad, the last thing you want to do when you land is to scurry around looking for where to buy a SIM card in the USA. Save time so you can get started on your itinerary as soon as you arrive. Packing our USA SIM card for your trip to America is as important as having your passport with you. You can document every part of your adventure seamlessly, from departure to arrival, without missing a beat. Whether you need to contact someone picking you up, let your family back home know you’re arrived safely, or navigate maps to your next destination, we’ve got you covered. At SimCorner, we offer a range of USA SIM cards that can be conveniently ordered online, just pick the package that suits you best and order your US SIM card online with us.

Our Top Recommendation: T-Mobile's USA SIM Card

Our extensive experience helping customers for over a decade leads us to recommend T-Mobile Unlimited Data USA SIM card . With a robust 5G/4G network spanning the country, T-Mobile offers unlimited data for 30 days, making it a more economical option than AT&T or Verizon. This is a great all-rounder option for UK travellers who want Unlimited data at a great value.

Will my phone work in the US?

Most UK citizens flying to the States should remember that network providers in the US use different frequencies to those back home. If you want to use your phone over there, you'll need to double-check what frequencies it supports before deciding to purchase a SIM card for the USA. You can go to a mobile phone shop, or you can use the contact us link above to get in touch with us, and we would be able to check if your phone is compatible with the prepaid sim cards from T-Mobile or ATT.

You will also need to make sure your phone is unlocked. If your phone is on a post-paid plan or contract with your local carrier it doesn't mean your phone is locked. If you are unsure, please check with your current service provider.

Best USA Mobile Internet Operators in the USA

How do you pick the one prepaid USA sim card for your travel needs? While there are international sim cards available where they work in Europe and USA, we advise sticking to actual USA sim card options for the best coverage and speed within the USA. It's crucial also to ensure if you are going with eSIM option that your phone supports eSIM functionality before making a purchase.

Despite the USA's vast population, only three main mobile internet operators reign supreme: T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon.

T-Mobile - One of the most competitive cell phone carriers in the US, T-Mobile is an excellent choice for picking cheaper SIM options with good coverage across the vast amount of mainland America and Hawaii. They also offer the best prepaid sim bundles that are great value for money.

Verizon - America's best carrier for coverage is Verizon, which provides excellent coverage and fast data plans. Verizon's 4G LTE network currently has the best nationwide coverage in USA compared to any local carrier, which is great if you are driving around town.

AT&T -The last big mobile carrier, AT&T is a popular choice as it offers the most coverage across the USA and its territories. But recently, Android phones not purchased directly from AT&T, are having calling issues on the AT&T network (data is working fine). If you need calling service we recommend that you purchase the T-Mobile or Verizon, otherwise you will run into issues whilst over there.

Similar to here in UK, the US also offers a range of smaller phone carriers such as LycaMobile or Lebara. While these are still local SIM cards, they run on one of the main phone networks noted above but offer their own services. These include Metro and Ultra Mobile, which both run on the T-Mobile network.

Although these smaller phone providers use T-Mobile's network, they have some limitations in order to reduce prices. They may not span the whole network, and coverage may be limited in many places. This would mean you would not get the best coverage, as compared to other AT&T or T-mobile SIM card options. In addition, Metro also has strict limitations on video streaming in its data.

This is why we recommend choosing a sim card from one of the two main carriers in America when buying USA SIM cards, as they offer coverage in most of the main cities and/or tourist areas.

Can I buy a USA SIM Card in UK?

To get USA SIM cards in UK, you'll need to buy the sim card online. Fortunately, there's an easy way now. At SimCorner we sell a range of prepaid USA SIM cards for UK travellers. Best of all, every US SIM card we sell is a local sim card, from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon, so they will be assigned a USA number and includes data, unlimited calls, and unlimited SMS. Everything you need for your stay in the USA. We also provide shipping UK wide!

By purchasing one of our awesome ranges and having it shipped straight to your home address or work address, you can be sorted even before you step on the plane! We offer free shipping UK-wide with regular mail or express 2-3 business day services if needed for urgent travel plans. Buying USA travel SIM cards online has never been easier.

The Best Prepaid USA SIM Cards for Tourists

At SimCorner we've got you covered when it comes buying a USA SIM card for your next holiday. Our range of prepaid USA SIM cards caters to different travel needs. We have noted our best prepaid plans for UK travellers below.

#1 Customers Choice

T-mobile usa sim card - unlimited data -.

SimCorner has been selling this USA SIM card plan for over 10 years, and it is frequently recommended by customers. This is a great all-rounder option for UK travellers who want Unlimited data at a great value. Their all-inclusive prepaid sim card offers Unlimited 4G LTE data, unlimited talk & text to USA numbers. The best part is if you have a 5G compatible phone, you can now also connect to their fast 5G network at no extra cost. If you have an eSIM compatible phone like the iPhone 12 or newer, you can purchase this product as an e-SIM. Click here to visit product page.

T-Mobile - 10GB USA Travel SIM Card or 15GB AT&T SIM Card -

If you plan to only use a moderate amount of 4G data, texts, and minutes while you’re away, why not look at our 10GB USA Travel SIM Card or 15GB AT&T SIM Card. For travellers looking for the right mix between staying connected while on their next holiday or adventure trip, these USA sim options are the perfect pick. The 30-day access comes with unlimited calls and unlimited SMS feature within the USA, to all USA mobiles and landlines. Incoming calls are free and allow you to remain in touch always.

While you might argue that the 10GB or 15GB data may not be enough for all your Netflix or FaceTime needs, it can be enough if you are keen to just remain connected. Finding locations on Google Maps, checking emails for emergency work comms, or asking for a recommendation for the best hairstylist in the city on Facebook can all be sorted!

AT&T Unlimited Data SIM Card -

Alternatively, If you are concerned about running out of data while on your trip to the USA, fear not, take a look at our USA Unlimited Data SIM Card. This is the best unlimited SIM card with 30-days access to unlimited 4G data, unlimited calls, and Unlimited SMS within USA and Hawaii to all mobiles and landlines.

The unlimited data connection can solve all your travel connection needs. Work while you’re on-the-go, binge-watch on your favourite Netflix series, download latest tracks from Spotify, or make international calls using FaceTime to your friends and family while you’re ticking off your bucket list at the Grand Canyon or even at Las Vegas. The unlimited mobile hotspot at 3G speed is an added advantage—you no longer have to worry about Baby Shark eating up your data while your toddler is at it on the Tab! You can now purchase this product as an e-SIM if you have a eSIM compatible phone, click here to view that product page

15GB or 100GB Data Only for iPads and Tablets

This one may be a little bit higher on the price range, but it packs a punch. With 15GB or 100GB, high-speed 5G/4G data and mobile hotspot/tethering allowed, this travel SIM card is great if you don’t need to text or call anyone in the USA and need data on your iPad or tablet—perfect for families or those travelling in groups! Whether you need to upload new memories on Google Photos in real-time, or need to share data with your whole travel group for work purposes, this will do just the trick.

Why buy US mobile SIM cards from SimCorner?

SimCorner is UK’s most trusted supplier of Prepaid USA SIM cards since 2012, which is why when you’re purchasing with us, you can have peace of mind on any trip overseas. We’ve carefully thought about every feature you’ll need with your SIM so you can enjoy convenience, great value, and most importantly, reliable connection and coverage.

Benefits of choosing SimCorner:

Unlimited data, 10GB, 15GB, and 15GB data only (iPad/tablet) options
5G/4G package available
Unlimited calls and texts for every SIM package
USA only or USA, Canada, and Mexico options
Easy to use and activate
No roaming cost and hidden fees
Unlimited incoming calls internationally
Mobile hotspot/tethering allowed
Budget-friendly
Fast shipping to your door
Got the tick of approval from UK tourists
Price Beat Guarantee

About SimCorner

SimCorner is UK’s favourite destination to buy your travel SIMs. As travellers ourselves, we know the hassle of searching for a reliable, fee-free SIM card when you’re in a foreign country. We’re all about offering UK travellers affordable, reliable, and easy to use mobile SIMs all over the world. We’ve partnered with global mobile telecommunications providers so you get the best there is to offer for travel SIM cards. We’ve grown our business worldwide with dispatch locations now in Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom too.

You can shop by destination to find SIM cards or eSIMs that are compatible with each destination’s networks, landlines, and mobile phones. When you pre-purchase your US SIM card for UK travellers, you have one less thing to worry about when you get to your destination, so make sure to shop with us before your next trip away!

Buy a prepaid SIM card for USA travelling!

Now that you have the SIM Card for USA options laid in front of you, you would have already made up your mind on the data card that is ideal for you in terms of your travel itinerary. Though all the SIM cards are available in three sizes and fit most phones, it’s always good to check the specifications and compatibility before getting one that would be right for you. Why not, check out all the options that we offer at SimCorner and get a USA SIM card for your next trip to the USA .

Get in touch about cheap USA SIM cards for tourists

If you have any questions about our US prepaid SIM cards, check out our FAQs , or get in touch with our friendly team who will be happy to help. You can also look to SimCorner for SIM cards to travel to USA, Canada, and Mexico , Verizon SIMs, AT&T SIMs, and more.

Shop By Popular Destinations in USA

A prepaid US sim card is an easy, affordable and convenient option to use your phone in the USA. Instead of paying for international roaming charges or purchasing a local US prepaid smartphone plan that comes with steep monthly fees, you just purchase the sim card plan before you board your flight.

If they're US-based SIM cards from US carriers such as T-Mobile or AT&T like the ones we sell at SimCorner, they'll get assigned a USA phone number. If they're not US-based SIM cards, they might be roaming sim cards. They will still work in the USA but be assigned a UK number or Estonian number, etc.

Can I buy a USA SIM card in UK?

To get USA Sim cards in UK, you'll need to buy the sim card online. Fortunately, there's an easy way now. At SimCorner we sell a range of prepaid USA SIM cards for UK travellers. Best of all, every US SIM card we sell is a local sim card, from T-Mobile or AT&T, so they will be assigned a USA number and includes data, unlimited calls, and unlimited SMS. Everything you need for your stay in the USA. We also provide shipping UK wide!

By purchasing one of our awesome ranges and having it shipped straight to your home address or work address, you can be sorted even before you step on the plane! We offer free shipping UK-wide with regular mail or express services if needed for urgent travel plans. Buying USA travel sim cards online has never been easier.

Most British citizens flying to the States should remember that network providers in the US use different frequencies to those back home. If you want to use your phone over there, you'll need to double-check what frequencies it supports before deciding to purchase a sim card for USA. You can go to a mobile phone shop, or you can use the contact us link above to get in touch with us, and we would be able to check if your phone is compatible with the prepaid sim cards from T-Mobile or AT&T.

How good is the SIM card coverage in the USA?

At SimCorner, we offer US-based SIM cards which are compatible with major carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T, so you can enjoy the best coverage and data speeds as if you lived there.

What networks is the SIM compatible with within the USA?

Our visitor SIM cards for the USA are compatible with either T-Mobile, Verizon or AT&T, the top mobile providers, so you can rest assured that you will have a reliable connection on your whole trip.

How do you top up the SIM card credit once the balance runs out?

Our USA SIM cards last 30 days from activation. If you’re staying for longer, you can go to a T-Mobile, Verizon or AT&T provider to recharge, or you can also call customer service from your mobile phone.

Once you have used up your data, your data speed will go down to 2G, and you will not be able to add any more data to your SIM. We recommend purchasing the Unlimited Data USA SIM card if you feel like you will need more.

Tips for using your SIM card to maximize connectivity and save money

When you are traveling to the United States, staying connected is an absolute necessity. It can be a daunting task to figure out the best way to do this, but thankfully, SimCorner has made buying a USA SIM card easier for you. Here are some tips to make the most out of your SIM card and maximize your connectivity while saving money.

Firstly, find one that suits your needs and budget. Consider what activities you will be doing and how much data you will use. SimCorner offer packages with different data plans and prices. If you are unsure, our help staff can guide you in the right direction.

Secondly, try to use data base apps or messaging apps like WhatsApp, Viber or Facebook Messenger. This will help you keep connected to the people you need to be in touch with, even if they are back home.

Finally, always keep track of your data usage. Most providers offer ways for you to monitor your data usage, either through their app or website. This prevents you from going over your limit. Thankfully SimCorner offer USA sim cards with Unlimited Data,to avoid this problem all together.

With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your USA SIM card and stay connected without breaking the bank. Happy travels!

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Home » Gear » Travel Sim's » best international sim cards

9 BEST International SIM Cards for Travel (Buyer’s Guide • 2024)

SIM cards are a royal pain in the butt when travelling. Every time you land somewhere new, you have to perform the same song and dance of going out of your way to get a new sim pretty much as soon as possible.

Usually what happens is that you land in the airport and then you either get ripped off buying a SIM card there or navigate to town without any connectivity. Once you’re in town, you have to navigate a foreign city sifting through local SIM providers, various plans, and also probably getting lost along the way. It’s not the ideal way to start a vacation and I cannot even count the hours I’ve lost shopping for sims in new countries.

That’s why buying one of the best international SIM cards is THE way to go.

An International SIM card is one which will work all over the world meaning that you never have to change it again – no more messing around at the O2 Kiosk in strange airports!

Now, to set the record straight, while there are cheaper travel SIM cards in existence, they still aren’t exactly cheap. Nine times out of ten, a local SIM card is always going to be the cheaper option for budget backpackers.

Maybe you’re a digital nomad who always needs to be connected, maybe you’re a high-flying businessperson with fancy business attire who makes busy business calls while on holiday or maybe (like me) you are just sick of having to change sims.

Either way, this is the list of the best international SIM cards on the market! I’ve done all the leg-work and the research to deliver an international SIM cards review in full. So let’s get ourselves connected.

Compare The Best International SIM Cards

What is an international sim card, the best sim cards for international travellers, international data sim cards for digital nomads, social media addicts, and tinder aficionados, a quick review of each sim card, frequently asked questions about travel sim cards, should you buy an international sim card.

This isn’t the whole roundup but it is my personal pick of the best international SIM cards worth looking into, each one serving a different niche.

> e-Sim and Traditional Sims available
> Wide and reliable coverage
> Low SIM-purchasing fees

> Virtual sim – no plastic needed!
> Excellent range of packages
> Download before you leave home

TravelSim Worldwide Card

> Cheaper initial cost
> Some cheaper rates for off-beat countries
> No long-standing reputation

> Excellent value – starts at $1
> Range of packages available
> Great coverage

KeepGo Lifetime World SIM Card

> Reliable connection
> Prone to cutting rates
> Coverage could be better

Surfroam SIM Card

> Simple rates – no bundle packs
> Huge coverage
> Requires a PRO account for maximum coverage

Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card

> Extremely reliable in Europe
> Easily sufficient for a two-week holiday
> Excludes a number of countries in Europe

International SIMs, roaming SIMs, travel SIM Cards whatever: a rose by any name can still order you a pizza when you don’t want to leave the guesthouse after all right? That’s what an international SIM card is, a SIM card that will have you hooked up from “anywhere” .

Why did you put ‘anywhere’ in quotes?

Because it’s a highly variable anywhere. “Anywhere” really means from the countries that the international SIM covers. That said, some of these travel SIM providers cover over 200 countries.

That also said, there are only 195 countries in the world so I’m not sure how they mathed those numbers out. Still unsure, have a look at our guide to local vs international SIM cards .

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So, how does an international SIM card work?

Without getting too technical, an international SIM card isn’t programmed to one specific network. It’s programmed to operate on a number of networks in a number of different geographical locations – specifically, networks using the GSM (Global Systems of Management Communications) framework.

That’s why to use your cell phone internationally with a travel SIM card it needs to be:

GSM-compatible (many phones are).
Unlocked, i.e. not tied to a provider.

Do be sure about that unlocked phone bit before you go ahead and buy a new one.

Basically, global SIM cards will plug into a local network from the country you’re travelling to… Consensually, of course.

That’s why coverage so strongly varies among the many international SIMs. Some SIM cards are for worldwide use and programmed accordingly. Some SIM cards are for international roaming in certain regions like Asia, the USA, or Europe (usually, omitting a third of Europe in their coverage).

For example, you’ll need a different sim card for Canada and the USA in most cases, but in Europe you’ll more than likely be able to use the same one.

Who benefits from buying an international SIM card?

Well, like I said, not so much the longterm backpacker types . A local SIM card is pretty much always cheaper and much more practical (and reliable) for long stays in any country. Unfortunately, actual cheap international sim cards don’t exist yet.

Country-hoppers , on the other hand, may want to consider buying some sort of prepaid international SIM card. Buying local sim cards in Europe for only 1-2 weeks of use eight times in a trip is nobody’s idea of fun, especially if you care about data usage and double especially if you care about plastic ending up in the ocean.

Businessman talking on the phone with a internationally roaming

People living the digital nomad lifestyle may also benefit from a travel SIM. Though a local SIM is much more equipped for longterm stays in a country, sometimes the options or service is crap and sometimes you’ll spend long stretches in transit which is a perfect time to crunch out a few hours. Besides, there is no rule that says you can’t have two SIMs. A prepaid international sim card might be the best option here (more about that later).

Lastly, business people or people that take frequent short trips will benefit from a SIM card for international travel. I might be stereotyping here but I kinda feel that these folk are less concerned with the costs associated. Plus, most SIM cards for overseas use tend to have 1-year validity for purchased credit, so it’s totally viable to park your SIM after a trip and then pop it back in for the next one.

Beginning the list are the top international SIM cards for travelling that do everything a SIM card should do: call, texts, and mobile data . These SIMs have some pretty major coverage globally and for most travellers in the world, are more than sufficient.

Of course, there has to be a best-of-the-best in this international sim card comparison. So first up–the best travel SIM card!

#1 The Best International Physical SIM Card – OneSim

Ok, so what makes OneSim the best travel SIM card? It’s a fine difference between the first few candidates but OneSim edges out on top for a combination of versatility, pricing, and reliability.

First up, they offer multiple different SIM cards each catering to different travelling needs INCLUDING (but not limited to) 2 awesome e-Sim options :

OneSimCard e-Sim World (From $9.95) – Coverage of 150 countries with free incoming calls on EU numbers.
OneSimCard e-Sim Asiana (From $9.95) – Specially designed for Asia and Oceania. Data packages available.

If your phone is not yet e-Sim ready, then worry not because OneSim also offer some excellent deals on plastic sims:

OneSimCard Universal ($29.95) – Coverage of over 200 countries but with a more limited data service (50+) countries.
OneSimCard Expedition ($34.95) – Offers much the same coverage as the OneSim Universal travel SIM but with way more data coverage. It’s the choice for the explorers.

How OneSim Works

You’ll get a $10 bonus credit with any OneSIM roaming SIM card purchase, but once that’s gone, you’ll have to continue buying data plans. Rates vary wildly by both the choice of travel SIM card you are using and the country you’re in so you’ll need to check these rates to see if they suit you.

You’ll receive two numbers: a European (Estonian) number and a choice of one from the USA, UK, Australia, or Canada. Incoming calls on the primary European number is free in a large coverage of countries or starting from $0.25/min otherwise. Outgoing calls also start from $0.25/min (dependent on locations) and receiving texts are free.

Casual data rates start at rather hefty $0.20/MB . However, what makes this such a good prepaid international SIM card is that there is a lot of choices to lower your costs. You can buy data bundles ranging from one/two weeks to a month divided by zone or region. There are also discount plans and bundles available for call rates. This makes the OneSIM one of the best international SIM cards for data as well.

So, is it worth it?

Although not strictly the cheapest international SIM card on the market, the wealth of choices means that you can tailor your SIM card to your world travel needs and minimize costs. The added bonus is that OneSim has been kicking around for a while so they know the market well.

They provide a reliable service, as well as a bunch of neat extras, to keep their clients happy chappies. If you’re looking for the best sim card for international travel, OneSIM is definitely one you should consider getting.

#2 Best Global eSim Provider – GigSky

If you have a modern phone (iPhone 11 , Samsung Galaxy S21, etc or above) it will probably be eSim compatible. This means that you don’t actually need a plastic SIM card but can simply download an eSim via GigSky the same way you would download an app.

When I first heard of eSim about one year ago, it was something of a niche product simply because most travellers were using phones and devices that were not eSim compatible. However that is changing fast and by 2024, an estimated 80% of travellers will use eSim. The eSim marketplace is a very exciting one and the providers are contently innovating to come up with some new, better, cheaper packages – according to our research, GigSk are currently leading the pack.

How GigSky Works

I had the pleasure of reviewing Gigsky and It’s really very simple. You either download the GigSky App (which we do recommend) or else go to their website and check out their “Global Plans”. You buy the package you want (in the 5GB World Plan) and download it not your phone BEFORE you fly, using either a link or a QR code.

The joy of eSim is that you can install it before you leave and then activate as soon as the plane touches down meaning you are rocking and rolling all over the world before you even get your luggage.

GigSky offer 1 Global Package only – 5GB over 30 days for $69.99. I can be topped up (if you somehow burn through all 5GB) but it cannot be extended past the 30 days.

So, Is It Worth It?

Well, $69.99 is a lot for a 30 day package but International Sim Packages do not come cheap. GigSky also have a wide range of global carrier partners meaning their offer better connectively than most platers in this space.

Overall though, in terms of sheer convenience yes GigSky is worth it – you you can browse for and install an eSim from the comfort your device and get it ready to use before you even leave home which saves a whole lotta hassle. However, the package does NOT include an actual phone number which is a bit of a bummer.

#3 Great Global eSim Package – Sim Local

Sim Local is recognized as a global leader in the travel SIM card and eSIM retail market. The company specializes in serving global travellers, enabling them to stay connected while avoiding expensive roaming charges. During my review of Sim Local , I was impressed to see they provide local SIM cards and eSIM profiles directly to customers through a variety of channels, including retail stores, kiosks, vending machines, a mobile app, and an eShop.

Their services are aimed at offering significant savings on data, calls, and texts compared to traditional roaming options, and they also offer a range of mobile handsets and accessories tailored to the needs of travellers.

How Sim Local Works

First up, note that Sim Local are an eSim-only provider so if you’re phone is not eSim ready…go elsewhere. Providing it is, you simply hop over to their site or get the app and check out their global packages. At the time of writing the site offers their own brand one for just $10 for 3 days, or an Orange one that costs $28.00 for 14 days.

I’ll be frank, eSims are still often more expensive than buying physical sims but they are a lot easier to install and to operate and best of all, you can install them before you even leave home. In my view, $28.00 for 10GB of data over 14 days is good value for an international sim but bear in mind it don’t come with a local numero.

#4 A Worldwide SIM Card – WorldSIM

WorldSIM gets a mention on this list because it’s another puller in the market with some comparatively awesome rates. It’s also got some really weirdly expensive outlying rates. As such, we certainly don’t feel like it’s a fit for the best SIM card for international roaming.

How WorldSim Works

The WorldSIM international SIM card has no purchasing fee- woo! Now, before you get too excited, it does require a top-up of credit at purchase.

That means that you’re paying a minimum of $33.75 plus shipping . For $67.50 of credit, shipping is free.

The casual rates for outgoing calls, texts, and data usage are the cheapest I’ve found so far with data coverage extending to countries missed out on by OneSim. Except, a lot of the rates in various countries for incoming calls are shockingly high.

As for the data bundles? No idea. Their website isn’t working for that page and is just stuck in an infinitely loading loop.

Our gut says no. But, you do you. You shouldn’t base your decisions on buying an international SIM card on the gut instincts of a stranger online. All the same though, our gut says no.

Between the mildly bait-and-switch-y “$0” SIM purchasing fee, the janky and unwieldy website, and the weird incoming call rates that could potentially trap an unwitting consumer, WorldSIM in review doesn’t feel like an international SIM card worth purchasing, especially in comparison to other choices on the market.

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These are the best international data SIM cards for those of us that scoot by without the extras.

#1 Best Data Only eSIM Card for International Travel – Jetpac

Jetpac is a Singapore based eSIM company who offer packages, designed primarily for travellers and Digital Nomads. They offer various data plans that can be used across many countries, and the service includes features like free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed.

Jetpac eSIMs are compatible with a range of devices, including many models from Apple, Samsung, and Google. To activate a Jetpac eSIM, users need to sign up on the Jetpac website or app, choose a plan that fits their travel needs, and then scan a QR code to install the eSIM on their device.

We love Jetpac for its ease of setup and reliable connectivity. JetPac makes it a handy tool for international travel, ensuring continuous access to mobile data across multiple destinations. While they don’t offer local numbers, we love that most of their packs last for 30 days by default so you can just concentrate on how much data you need.

Wanna know more: Check out our detailed Jetpac eSim card review here.

How it Works

The Jetpac worldwide eSIM card comes in a variety of different data packages. Data can be topped up with a number of plans ranging from 100 MB up to a slammin’ 25 GB ! The prices of data top-ups are:

1 GB – $1
3 GB – $10
5 GB – $25
10 GB – $30
25 GB – $38

Absolutely. I mean, come on it starts at one-freaking-dollar and works all over the world. All in all we’d consider this one of the best pre paid international data only sim cards on the market.

#2 A Simple Data SIM Card for Worldwide Travel – Surfroam

Yay! No prepaid data packages, no contractual mumbo-jumbo, no running out of data right when you settle in for a long Netflix and poop session: Surfroam keeps it Pura Vida!

It’s data-only with coverage of 200+ countries – even Afghanistan and Yemen are covered! So, what’s the go?

Essentially, you pay €45 for the physical SIM card (which includes €25 credit) and then top-up as you go with pack options starting at €25 . You’re charged a pay-as-you-go rate per megabyte starting as low as €0.01/MB . So that’s way cheaper than the KeepGo data roaming sim card, right? Not quite…

Rates vary substantially by country so while this going to be a cheaper option across, say, Europe, it may not necessarily pan out that way in other places. That said, prices are still pretty cheap for most places and tend to beat out KeepGo.

As a final note, there is an eSIM (€30) available with the same data rates.

Ok, so ‘simple’ might be stretching it upon reflection, however, once you’re away, its streams ablaze! If you’re jet-setting and changing countries a lot, you will need to stay keyed in as to the rates .

Otherwise, the coverage significantly beats out KeepGo, and in many cases, Surfroam will end up being the cheapest international data SIM card you can purchase. It’s the simplest choice for staying connected pretty much anywhere in the world.

#3 The Best International SIM Card for Europe – Orange Holiday Europe

Are you just doing a little banger holiday in Europe and need a physical SIM card for your travels? Orange has got you covered. Specifically:

Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card
Orange Holiday Zen SIM Card

The Orange Holiday Zen is for light usage or a short trip. It’s a straight prepaid SIM card for travellers in Europe and it couldn’t be simpler.

For $27.29 , you get 8 GB of data, 30 minutes of calls worldwide, 200 texts, all lasting for 14 days before it expires. The Holiday Zen covers 30 countries in Europe including all the heavy-hitters, if you need a sim in Italy , Greece or Spain it’s perfect but it certainly doesn’t cover all of Europe (my boy Serbia – forever underrepresented). Still, this makes it one of the best European SIM Cards for travellers.

The Orange Holiday Europe takes all of that and just upgrades it: 20 GB in data, 120 minutes, and 1000 texts for $44 . The same coverage of countries applies and it’s a 14-day expiry again.

Orange also partners with a bunch of networks around the world- even offering an Israeli sim card called partner. If you take a look around their website, you can find more far-flung networks than you expected!

Both cards are able to be topped up online for more credit.

Yeah, so I wouldn’t call ‘30 countries in Europe’ an internationally roaming SIM card, but it is a super simple choice for anyone just travelling to Europe for a holiday. It’ll keep you safe in an emergency thanks to that fact that it’s not a data only service. Plus: you’ll have a SIM ready from the moment you land!

Orange is a pretty major sim provider in France so you’ll have a consistent connection. There’s no constant checking of rates calculators either. It’s just a perfectly simple prepaid SIM card for any travellers heading to Europe.

Y’all want more? Another option to look at is getting an Airalo eSim instead.

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Some commonly asked questions about the world’s best travel SIM cards…

How do I activate my international SIM card?

Each international SIM comes with detailed instructions on how to set up and load your SIM. It’s always a good idea to get things set up before you leave home to avoid any mishaps.

What does international SIM mean?

An international SIM is a type of SIM card that will allow you to use your phone internationally by connecting to global carriers. Some of these SIMs will allow you to make calls as you normally would, while others only offer data plans.

What is the best SIM card for international travel?

Some of the best SIMs for international travel include OneSim , Nomad , KeepGo , and TravelSim .

Do international SIM cards expire?

Most of the SIMs on this list require you to recharge at least once a year, but in doing so all your data will remain usable.

will hatton working with a business partner

That depends on how you travel. If you’re adept at buying prepaid SIM cards locally when you hit the ground, then I wouldn’t worry.

However, for the people that an international SIM card suits the travelling style and needs of, then yes, definitely. I think if you’re that person, then you probably already know that you’re that person.

People looking for the all-round ol’ reliable, OneSim is the go-to choice of travel SIM cards. For those who want the best data SIM card they can use overseas, that choice is KeepGo .

Skip the lines and skip the painful errand days in a foreign city. Buy one of the best international SIM cards you can and have yourself connected before you even touchdown on the landing.

Want another kind of sim card? Check out the revolutionary new Nomad e-sim , an app-based sim card covering over 100 countries that can be organised before you leave home! If that’s not enough, there’s another new service from HolaFly which offers similar coverage and deals so check them both out and see which fits your needs best.

Maxwell Smart calls Agent 99 with a roaming SIM card installed in his shoe

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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I think eSIMS are the future gamechanger here. You can download a digital SIM to your phone which has eSIM support.

I use a second phone to provide data to my main phone via bluetooth internet sharing. Wifi sharing can be used as well but bluetooth uses less power. On my main phone I leave the mobile data turned off and use the paired second phone for data. This allows me to use my main phone for Whatsapp, iMessage, email, etc.

10/10 review – exactly the type of info I was after. Plus, I liked your no BS style of writing. Thanks.

Thanks! Very useful! My main concern is regarding how long do the sim cards remain active if you are not buying credit regularly. I usually travel at least once or twice to congresses per year, but I wonder if some of these cards would stop working after a long time inactive. Is that information available for the cards discussed here? Cheers!

Heya, absolutely you can find that info! It’ll be in the terms and conditions/fine print for individual cards/plans. I’d like to say most last at least a year (which always seemed standard for SIM cards in general), but defs check that before you go buying any SIMs. Good question though!

You guys should definitely include DENT, a block chain based international E-Sim card, that offers flexibel data exchange. You can sell your unused data and always find the cheapest offer worldwide and cross boarder operational. Can’t be missed from this list!

Dude – hectic! I’m defs not about to go and update this article, but I looked and DENT seems pretty legit and totally worth the investigation. Anyone reading these comments, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not scoping them out at least! 😀

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To buy a travel SIM card in the US for your travel destination, you simply need to go to SimCorner and choose a SIM option from a range of sim cards with reasonable data allowances for a price that suits your budget. Shopping for a SIM is now easier than ever. Opting for a SIM from SimCorner is guaranteed to make shopping for your travel SIM ...
The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in the USA in 2024
Cheap Physical Prepaid SIM Card Options For USA Travel. Here are some of the most popular options for plastic SIM cards for tourists in USA: 1. T-Mobile. T-Mobile offers 3 different SIM card packages, all including unlimited calling & texting in the US. You'll get max data speed on its 5G network valid for 1 month.
5 BEST USA eSIMs for Travel [TRIED + TESTED] 2024 Guide!]
Get your eSIM here. 5. Holafly - Best eSIM for the USA with Unlimited Calls! Holafly is another highly rated eSIM provider, who have plenty of great reviews from customers who have used their various plans. They provide a range of eSIM lengths for the USA, which start from 5 days up to 90 days.
USA SIM Card
Say goodbye to all roaming fees and travel connected with our hassle-free, high-data-speed, USA prepaid SIM cards. Simply insert our SIM card into your device and you're all set. With fuss-free activation, a 100% money-back guarantee , and an Aussie support team ready and waiting to assist you with any questions or concerns, you can travel ...
Planning a trip? Here are the best eSIMs for international travel
Nomad offers data-only plans in 170+ countries, with separate SMS plans in the US and Canada. Prices vary by region. The European plan costs $5 for 1GB of data for seven days. Prices are similar ...
Explore The Best USA SIM Cards for UK Travellers
Article: USA Travel Data Sim Card. Travel USA on a Budget - Be Prepared with a USA Travel Sim Card with Unlimited Data There are many ways to save money on a trip to the USA. One of the very first things you should do is purchase a USA travel sim card for your mobile phone. You may have heard horror stories about travellers who se...
9 BEST International SIM Cards For Travel (2024 Update)
OneSimCard Universal ($29.95) - Coverage of over 200 countries but with a more limited data service (50+) countries. OneSimCard Expedition ($34.95) - Offers much the same coverage as the OneSim Universal travel SIM but with way more data coverage. It's the choice for the explorers.
International SIM Cards
Savvy Travellers Choose Travelsim for Peace of Mind, 4G Speed, and to. Save up to. 85%. on International Roaming Charges. Limited Time Offer- 20% OFF. Use discount code "20" during the checkout process. Get your SIM Card Get your eSIM. Works in over 135+ countries, with a single card & phone number. (And get your card FAST with express delivery).
buy prepaid t mobile card to travel to USA
If it does have VoLTE, then you can get the T-Mobile SIM card and use your oppo A54S while you travel. If it doesn't, then that phone would not get service with the T-Mobile SIM card. If your cellphone provider and T-Mobile have a roaming agreement, then it is likely that you will get some kind of service while in the US.
Buy Your USA SIM Cards In Australia. Best Prepaid Sim For Travel
At SimCorner we sell a range of prepaid USA SIM cards for Australian travellers. Best of all, every US SIM card we sell is a local sim card, from T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon, so they will be assigned a USA number and includes data, unlimited calls, and unlimited SMS. Everything you need for your stay in the USA.

Best prepaid SIM Cards for U.S. travelers and tourists 2024

At a glance

1. Mint Mobile

Reasons to buy

2. Ultra Mobile 3GB

3. Lycamobile

4. AT&T Prepaid

5. T-Mobile Prepaid

6. Cricket Wireless

Which prepaid SIM card is best for you?

Should you use your current carrier's add-ons?

What about eSIM apps?

Be an expert in 5 minutes

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Important Note About Prepaid SIM Card Data Plans in the US

How To Buy A Prepaid Data Plan For The US

Prepurchase an eSIM Data Plan (Easiest)

Prepurchase a SIM Data Plan (Easy)

Wait Until You’re In The US To Buy A SIM Card (Most Difficult)

The Best Prepaid SIM Card and eSIM Data Plan You Can Buy Before Arriving In The US

Holafly US Data Plans (Unlimited Data eSIM)

Three 30-Day Pass (Digital eSIM Plan)

Smart Traveller eSIM (Digital eSIM Plan)

Orange Holiday World (Physical SIM Card)

Three PAYG MBB 12GB (Physical SIM Card)

Three PAYG MBB 24GB (Physical SIM Card)

How To Buy A Prepaid Data Plan In The US

Verizon Prepaid Data Plans

T-Mobile Prepaid US Data Plans

AT&T Wireless Prepaid Data Plans

Google Fi Prepaid Data Plans

Straight Talk Wireless Prepaid

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Best Tourist Sim Cards in USA in 2024

Table of Contents

USA Sim Card Prices

USA Sim Card Providers

T-Mobile Tourist Sim

T-Mobile USA Tourist Sim Price

AT&T Tourist Sim

AT&T USA Tourist Sim Price

Verizon Tourist Sim

Verizon USA Tourist Sim Price

How to Get a Sim Card in USA

Where to Get a Sim Card in USA

Holafly USA

What is an eSim?

Why Use an eSim?

eSim Supported Phones

How to Use an eSim

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Best E-Sim Cards for Traveling to the USA in 2024

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USA e-sim card comparison for 2024

What is the cheapest e-sim card for the USA

Why ordering an e-sim card for traveling in the USA

International data roaming plans

Where to buy an e-sim card for USA?

On arrival in USA

How to activate an e-sim card

When to order/install an e-sim card for the USA?