travel sim for use in usa

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

Make sure your phone speaks the right language.

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. 

Read more below.

From $19 at Ultra Mobile

The Ultra Mobile 3GB plan gives you a month of unlimited talk and text to over 90 countries worldwide on T-Mobile, up to 3GB of 5G/4G LTE data, and free Wi-Fi calling.

Read more below.  

From $15 at Lycamobile

If the ability to call abroad is your main focus, all Lycamobile plans come with unlimited talk and text to over 85 countries and a variety of data options.

From $30 at AT&T

Best non-MVNO 

Choose AT&T Prepaid's 5GB plan for $30 per month and you'll get unlimited talk, text, and 5GB of data with 5G access and the ability to text over 230 countries for free.

From $40 at T-Mobile

T-Mobile's prepaid plan is a little pricey, but you get 10GB of data, a free mobile hotspot, and access to the world's largest 5G network. 

From $35 at Cricket Wireless

If you only need data on your travels, Cricket's data-only plan offers a minimum of 20GB of high-speed data, as well as usage in Mexico and Canada. 

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.

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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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.

Table of Contents

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. 

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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.

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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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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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 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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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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

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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.

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.

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.

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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Best eSIM for USA in 2023 (We Found Them All)

Looking for the best eSIM for the USA? Or maybe you have a trip to New York, Boston, LA, Las Vegas, Florida or Texas planned?

USA eSIMs for tourists are a great option for anyone looking to hit the ground running with data on your phone.

At A Glance: Our Top eSIMs For USA

• best travel esim usa Airalo Jump To Review
• Best eSim unlimited data Holafly eSims Jump To Review
• Very Affordable Plans Nomad Jump To Review

I use them all the time when I travel to make sure I don’t have to use roaming on my home plan and save lots of money in the process. 

Below we will run through everything from why you should buy an eSIM online from the best providers. Which eSIM data plans are the cheapest and more.

Top Product Overview

Best esim for usa.

Airalo is world-renowned as one of the best international eSIMs  and offers excellent service in the USA too.

Airalo’s prepaid USA eSIM cards offer a minimum of 1 GB for 7 days which costs $4.50 and a maximum of 20 GB for 30 days which costs $42. These prices are great for shorter trips to the USA.

Here are some of the plans available:

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

It is a shame they do not offer any unlimited data plans or longer-term options. But they allow people careful with their data to choose an affordable plan that works for them.

• A good range of eSIM plans
• Simple to buy, activate, and use
• Great coverage and data speeds
• Solid pricing per GB
• No unlimited data plans
• Short contracts up to 30 days only

Holafly eSims

Holafly has some of the best eSIM cards for US travel. They offer unlimited data, great coverage and 5G data . So you don’t have to worry about how much mobile data you are using.

There are quite a few different length eSim plans available from Holafly, all with unlimited data. Some example plans include

• 5 days for $19
• 7 days for $27
• 10 days for $34
• 15 days for $47
• 30 days for $54
• 30 days for $64
• 60 days for $87
• 90 days for $99

Note: Use EXPERTWORLDTRAVEL for 5% off your first order

Holafly has teamed up with

• PTI Pacifica Inc.

so you get great connections no matter where you go. They simply switch cellphone companies depending on the signal and best connection.

Getting a Holafly eSIM plan is easy via their website and activation is very simple too. The only issue is that their customer support is can be slow and you can’t use the data for a hotspot.

• Unlimited data plans
• Excellent coverage in USA
• Short and long-term plans available
• Quite affordable
• You can’t use a hotspot or data sharing
• Customer support could be better

Maya Mobile

Maya is one of the most competitive eSIM service providers in the USA. They compete on price per GB and their unlimited data eSim is reasonably priced too.

Where they excel is their unlimited eSim as it comes with data sharing/hotspots allowed, which Holafly does not have.

On the price per GB prepaid eSIM plans, they are also competitive with Airalo.

Here are their eSIM packages for USA travel:

• 1 GB for $5
• 3 GB for $12
• 5 GB for $16
• 10 GB for $25
• Unlimited for $79

Maya uses both AT&T and T-Mobile, so you know you are getting a great mobile network and connection speed when traveling in the USA. And, they have recently upgraded this plan to include 5G when available, which is great for those of you who want speed!

• Competitive pricing
• Hotspot/tethering allowed
• Great networks (T-Mobile/AT&T)
• Not the cheapest unlimited data

Nomad is another great option for an eSIM for USA travel. They have a range of prepaid eSIM options to match most people’s needs.

Nomad provides great coverage and connection speeds, and easy setup & activation. They also make things simple by providing  30-day prepaid eSIM plans in most cases, with only the smallest one being 3 days, and the largest with 60 days.

You have data plans such as:

• 1GB / 7 days for $7
• 3GB/30 Days for $11
• 5GB/30 Days for $14
• 10GB / 30 days for $24 (Currently on sale for $18)
• 20GB / 30 days for $34
• 100GB / 60 days for $240

There are also lots of plans in between if you need something different. And, these plans are good value per GB at around $2.4/GB in most cases. They are all with T-Mobile, but, they also have AT&T plans which are all more expensive, for the same size plan.

Unfortunately for heavy users, no unlimited data options are available.

• Affordable and reliable
• Good connection speed
• Simple buying & activation process
• A lot of different 30-day data options
• AT&T or T-Mobile choice
• No unlimited data options

Gigsky is another eSIM provider operating in the US and they are very reliable but a little bit overpriced in my eyes.

Their data plans range from 1 GB for 7 days for $10 all the way to 10 GB for 30 days for $74.99. Compared to the likes of Nomad, Airalo, or Holafly, they are very expensive.

RELATED POST: GIGSKY REVIEW

• Easy to set up
• Good coverage
• A good range of plans
• A bit expensive
• Max 30-day plans available

T Mobile is one of the local carriers in the USA that provide eSIMs. This means their eSIMs will have better coverage and speeds compared to others since they are using their one network and will be prioritized.

T Mobile also offers just three eSIM plans. The unlimited plans are affordable, the smaller ones are pricey, but they are all easy to buy, and activate.

The minimum plan you can buy is 10 GB for 30 days for $40 with voice and SMS too or you can get unlimited data for 30 days for $60 with voice and SMS.

These are great plans if you are in the US for a while or want unlimited data.

• Very affordable
• Reliable coverage
• Great connection speed
• Easy to buy & activate through the app
• A few great 30-day plans
• Unlimited data available
• Only 30-day plans available

AU by KDDI is a Japanese eSIM provider that is so expensive that it is hard to recommend them compared to the others in this list.

They charge you either $54/5GB for 30 days or $84/8GB for 30 days, which is pretty much the same as using your mobile phone plan from your home country, and worth getting a local sim to avoid.

Luckily, there are lots of different options out there for much more affordable eSIMs.

• Easy and fast
• Way too expensive
• No unlimited options

Simtex is another good eSIM provider that functions well globally and in the USA. Their cell phone coverage is good and their connection speeds are solid.

You have the choice of a 3, 14, or 30-day plan across a varying amount of data. The most affordable plan is 1 GB for 3 days for $5 and it goes up to 10 GB for 30 days for $25, which is a great value.

Unfortunately, you can not buy unlimited data plans or longer-term contracts.

• Reliable and fast
• Good range of short contracts
• Easy to buy and activate
• Only shorter plans

Benefits of Getting An eSIM for the USA

The main benefit of getting an eSIM for the USA is convenience. You can buy your eSIM for the US before you leave, activate it when you land, and be online instantly.

There is no waiting in line to buy a local sim card , no switching out your physical sim card with a new one, no learning a new top-up method, no scouring data packages, and no losing your home sim card either.

Also, if you buy just a data plan for your eSIM you can continue to use your normal physical sim card for texts and calls, giving you a dual sim device.

Topping up with an eSIM is already incredibly quick and easy, just do it via an app and you can add it in seconds.

Devices Compatible with a USA eSIM

An eSim is an embedded SIM card inside of your phone, meaning it has to be built-in. This means that not all phones and tablets come with an eSim, as eSim technology-enabled devices are rather new.

Below you will find a list of all devices that work with an eSim.

iPhone & iPad

iPhone: 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini, 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, XS, XS Max, XR, SE (2020), SE (2022).

iPad Air: (3rd generation), (4th generation)

iPad Pro 11‑inch: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd generation)

iPad Pro 12.9‑inch: 3rd, 4th, & 5th generation)

iPad: 7th, 8th, & 9th generation

iPad Mini: 5th & 6th generation

Android Phones

Samsung Galaxy: S22 Ultra 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S20, S20+, Z Flip, Z Flip3 5G, Z Fold3, Z Fold2, Fold, Note 20 Ultra, Note 20+, Note 20

Google Pixel: 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4a, 4 XL, 5, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro

HAMMER: Explorer PRO, Blade 3, Blade 5G, myPhone NOW eSIM

Motorola: Razr 2019, Razr 5G

Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro

OPPO: Find X3 Pro, Find X5 Pro, Find X5

Sony Xperia: 10 III Lite, 10 IV, 1 IV

Other Devices That Support eSim

ACER: Swift 3, Swift 7

ASUS: Mini Transformer T103HAF, NovaGo TP370QL, Vivobook Flip 14 TP401NA

Dell Latitude: 9510, 7410, 7310, 9410, 7210 2-in-1

HP: Elitebook G5, Probook G5, Zbook G5, Spectre Folio 13

Lenovo: Yoga C630, Miix 630, Yoga 520, Yoga 720 convertible laptops

Surface: Go 3, Pro X, Duo 2, Duo

Others: Nuu Mobile X5, Gemini PDA 4G+Wi-Fi, Xiaomi 12T Pro, Windows 10*/ Windows 11

Local Mobile Operators Offering eSims in the US

AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon are the only three local providers that offer eSIMs for USA.

An eSim provider that has a local network already in place in the USA is likely to provide better coverage. They should also provide better pricing but this is never a guarantee.

Data Needed When Traveling to the USA

How much data you need while traveling in the USA depends on your data usage habits. If your business requires you to be on Instagram all the time, or you want to watch movies on Netflix while traveling from one place to the next, you are going to use a lot of data.

On average, people use about 5 GB of data per week. Heavier users can hit around 15 GB per week, whereas light users only use about 2 GB per week.

Always try and buy a plan to match your data usage, as getting it right is way more affordable than having to buy another plan when you run out.

Tips for Using eSIM in the USA

Make sure your device is compatible and unlocked.

Before you do anything, make sure your phone or tablet works with eSIMs and it is unlocked from your provider. Locked devices will not work with eSIMs.

They are easy to unlock, just call your provider and it will be unlocked in seconds.

Use Facetime & iMessage

If you are using an iPhone, use iMessage and Facetime to call and text for free over data only.

Most people in the USA communicate over iMessage and Facetime, whereas the rest of the world uses WhatsApp . This means you only need data to communicate with everyone.

Use Offline Maps

If you are worried about data consumption, download the area you intend to use on Google Maps while on WiFi. You can then use it offline on airplane mode to navigate your way around the country without using any data.

Here is how to download Google Maps for offline use.

Try To Use WiFi

If you are trying to use less data, then avoid using apps like Instagram, Facebook, and Netflix until you are on WiFi. Any app downloading photos and video chews up data like crazy.

Luckily, most establishments such as cafes and restaurants in the USA offer free WiFi, so staying connected without data isn’t too difficult.

Live In Airplane Mode

Airplane mode stops your phone from connecting to data. A lot of apps actually use data in the background to check for new things, using your data plans without you even knowing, sneaky!

In airplane mode, nothing connects and you can still use GPS for navigation plus take pictures too.

Control Which Apps Use Data

If you go into settings, you can control which apps are allowed to use mobile data roaming and WiFi. Go and turn off mobile data for all the apps you don’t want chewing up your data plans. You can still use them on WiFi, and turn mobile data back on for them if you want to.

What is an eSIM?

In case you are not familiar with eSIMs…

An eSIM is like a digital version of the traditional SIM card you put in phones. Instead of inserting or swapping SIM cards when you want to change your phone service, you can just activate or change services electronically. This makes it simple for travelers like you to choose a competitive data package for your trip without paying hefty roaming fees at home.  It’s also easier because you can switch to local networks without needing a new card and still keep your home phone number if you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i buy an esim in the us.

You can buy your eSim for USA travel online, from anywhere in the world, including the USA. It is best to buy the eSim before you travel so you can activate it when you land. Here is how to do it:

• Pick the eSim provider and eSim plan that works for you
• Buy the plan online or through the app
• You will receive an activation code or QR code via email or the provider’s app
• Installing the eSim to your phone
• Do not activate the eSim until you are in the US or it might run out before you get there

How do I activate my US eSim?

Follow the activation instructions that came with your activation code or QR codes. It is very easy and should only take a minute or two. But, you will need to be connected to WiFi to do it.

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The best SIM cards for travelling in the USA

Stay connected while you travel through the USA with the best value travel SIMs and roaming deals.

Roaming in USA

Best usa travel sim.

• Best USA Travel eSIM
• Best USA Roaming SIM
• Best local SIM USA deal

Miley Cyrus wants to party there, Bruce Springsteen was born there… and a whole lot of Australians travel to and through the United States of America for work or pleasure in any given year. If heading to the land of free (calories) and the home of the Braves (and other sports teams) is in your plans, it’s wise to sort out how you’re going to stay connected while there without breaking the bank – except maybe at Las Vegas if that’s your style.

There’s certainly no shortage of options for travellers to the USA looking for travel SIMs, eSIMs and roaming options; this guide will highlight some of the best deals you can pick from to get the right balance between price, inclusions and convenience.

Australia Post International Roaming

The simple reality for physical travel SIMs is that they’re basically never the best option for affordability; what you’re paying for is flexibility. Where this gets tricky for travellers to the USA wanting to roam is that there’s only a few networks that will deal with tourists at all, thanks to the strong focus within the USA for contracted phone plans over prepaid ones in that market. As such, there’s fewer physical SIM card options than you might think, and most of them are fairly poor value, either requiring a rolling credit balance or charging some outrageous data or SIM fees.

The Australia Post International Roaming SIM thinks differently. Quite differently, actually, charging just $5 for 30 days of coverage. That doesn’t cost much, and you get an absolute bare-bones service with just 50 minutes of calls, 50 texts and 50MB of data – which won’t go far. The trick here is to match it up with public and hotel Wi-Fi as needed, plus offline loading of important data like maps, offline streaming services and the like.

Best eSIM for USA

Airalo change.

Airalo’s eSIM first business model naturally includes the USA with easy options available from just 7 days to 30 days at prices ranging from US$4.50 (7 days, 1GB data) up to a very reasonable US $42 (30 days, 20GB). The ease and practicality of an eSIM can’t be understated here, as there’s no fiddly waiting around for a SIM card to appear or disaster if you drop it as you’re trying to do the SIM swap from your plane seat. If you’re also considering wider North American travel, Airalo also offers an AmericanMex package that adds Canadian and Mexican coverage to the mix. That package is slightly more pricey than just plain USA coverage, however.

The catch here – as it always is – is that you must have an unlocked, eSIM-capable handset to use Airalo at all, as the company does not offer traditional physical SIM cards. That’s still largely the province of somewhat newer, mostly premium phone handsets, so if you’re using an older or especially a budget phone, you may not be able to use the service.

Best Telco USA Roaming Deal: T-Mobile Prepaid

Best Australian deal for USA roaming

Vodafone $5 roaming.

Travel to the USA without a roaming deal in place on a postpaid plan and in many cases, you will find you mobile may work.

You’ll also find on your return that you’re faced with a serious mobile bill if you’re opting to go on the quite painful PAYG rates that most of them charge. Thankfully there are better options, and Vodafone’s $5/day international roaming deal remains the one that offers the best overall value.

The proposition is quite simple; pay $5 extra per day on top of your existing Vodafone postpaid contract and you get access to the call, text and data inclusions of your plan – though not the endless shaped data speeds on most plans once your data quota is exhausted. Here’s a range of suitable Vodafone plans to pair with its $5 international roaming deal:

One detail to be wary of here is that while it’s super convenient to not have to swap SIMs at all and keep your Australian phone number and connections, it’s not terribly cost efficient if you’re heading down route 66 (or anywhere else in America) for any serious length of time. Vodafone only charges you that $5 extra when you actually use your phone, but over a fortnight’s holiday that’s an extra $70 on your bill with no additional data or services beyond access to speak of.

Vodafone isn’t the only player in the roaming space worth considering; here’s a range of telco plans that have international roaming options available at additional cost:

It can be highly beneficial to grab a local SIM in Europe for your travels, because typically local rates are cheaper and offer larger data inclusions than just about any travel SIM or roaming deal. There’s the added benefit for the EU specifically here too that member states (plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) all support cross-border roaming at no additional cost. Look for deals from some of the bigger cross-European Telcos such as Orange or Vodafone to get the best deal for the right price.

You’ll find no shortage of local SIM providers in every single major European airport if you favour convenience, though often they sell “tourist” specific SIMs with a slight surcharge in return for that easy pickup.

If you’re staying longer in a specific country, it’s worth researching local options and storefronts to see if you can get a prepaid SIM through them. Be careful, however, as you don’t want to get stung by a monthly plan that’s no use to you once you’ve left Europe, and some providers in some countries won’t accept credit card payments for some mobile services if the credit card itself isn’t local.

If your current handset doesn’t support eSIM, then sadly, the answer is no. You absolutely need the internal circuitry for eSIM support to be present on your phone in the first place.

If your phone does support eSIMs, then it’s quite easy to set up your eSIM before you travel. We’ve got a handy guide to setting up eSIMs for Apple iPhone and Android here .

The absolute cheapest way to “roam” when overseas is to throw your phone into a canal the moment you land. But that’s environmentally unsound, so don’t do it.

The second cheapest way is to use public Wi-Fi where available. In Europe, that’s a lot of places, including most accommodation venues. Instead of throwing your phone into a canal, switch off its roaming data (or data altogether) and switch to using Wi-Fi plus services such as Facetime, FaceBook Messenger and WhatsApp as your temporary “phone” number while you’re travelling. Use the offline maps capability of services such as Google Maps for navigation, load up on offline streaming services and music, and you can survive without having to pay anything extra at all for data.

Bear in mind, however, that public networks sit outside your control, and you never know who might be doing a little not-so-idle-not-so-friendly packet sniffing to get hold of your data. If you’re planning on relying on public Wi-Fi while travelling, investing in proper secure VPN access is a must.

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14 Best International (E)-Sim Cards for Traveling in 2024

Traveling overseas soon? Avoid high roaming costs and get yourself a travel sim card, an international sim card with data that works all over the world! Does that exist? Yes! And good news, I updated this international sim card comparison for all your trips abroad in 2024 and included the best international e-sim cards as well.

First I will give you a comparison of the best international prepaid and e-sim cards available for traveling abroad in 2024, including all the pros and cons. Then at the end I will also explain the differences between a local prepaid sim card and a global travel sim card and tell which ones are cheaper.

At the end you can decide for yourself if you think it is worth buying an international (e)-sim card for your next trip or buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in your holiday destination.

For your convenience I ranked the best international sim cards from best to worst. Number 1 is my top recommendation, then number 2 and so on… However, it also depends on the places and countries that you will be traveling to, so choose your sim card wisely.

Slowly physical sim cards are being replaced by e-sim cards. Physical sim cards are not needed anymore, no more swapping sim cards in your phone if your phone is e-sim compatible.

Actually, e-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling abroad in 2024 and you are online as soon as the plane lands.

Here are some of the latest Traveltomtom e-sim card guides with everything you need to know about using an e-sim card in: USA , Canada , Mexico ,  Thailand , Hong Kong , Singapore ,  Malaysia , China , Australia ,  Europe ,  France , Italy , Spain , Portugal , United Kingdom ,  Turkey ,  Egypt , Dubai , Philippines , Vietnam  and many more.

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My recommendation

Depending on your destination local prepaid sim cards will give you more value for money. But you can only buy a sim card on arrival. If you are looking for the most convenient way to stay connected and want to arrive prepared at your holiday destination then order an international prepaid sim card or an e-sim card.

Overseas data plans and data roaming packages from the mobile operator from your home country mostly don't allow you to use the max data speed.

Traveltomtom recommends the following international sim cards:  Orange Holiday World sim card , Jetpac Global e-sim , a Three UK sim card or an  Airalo Discover Global e-sim card .

Personally I have a Discover Global e-sim card from Airalo with 20 GB data valid for 365 days installed on my phone. This e-sim card is valid in 130 countries and I use it every time the plane lands in a new country.

Depending on where and how long I travel I compare the local prepaid sim cards with the available e-sim cards.

Traveltomtom recommends getting an international prepaid or e-sim card from a reliable third party sim card provider. Great resources for buying international sim cards and e-sim cards are:

• SimOptions for physical sim cards as well as e-sim cards
• Airalo  for e-sim cards
• Nomad for e-sim cards
• Jetpac for e-sim cards

Personally Traveltomtom has used SimOptions and Airalo the most and for many consecutive years. Nomad and Jetpac are fairly new on the e-sim market, but since I figured out that both of them have some amazing e-sim card plans I started using them too. It depends on where I am traveling.

Comparison international sim card

As expected, there’s a wide range of international sim cards available on the internet. The challenge that most travelers are faced with is choosing the best one for their trip. The pricing and capabilities vary widely and some cater best for one trip, but suck for another trip.

In the following section, I will review and compare the top international sim cards. Read through the list carefully and pick the travel sim that works for you. As promised I listed the best travel sim cards on top!

 In short:

• Best sim card for Europe: Orange Holiday Europe  & Bouygues Telecom (e-sim)
• Best sim card for Caribbean: Knowroaming or KeepGo
• Best sim card for North America: Orange Holiday World & Three UK or a  Airalo Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Central America:  Three UK
• Best sim card for South America: Three UK or Airalo Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Africa: Orange Holiday World &  Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Asia: Airalo Discover Global E-sim card & Jetpac Global
• Best sim card for Southeast Asia: Jetpac Global
• Best sim card for the Middle East:  Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Oceania: Smart Traveller eSim, Nomad Global

Traveling to the Middle East? I visited all countries in the Middle East myself and wrote detailed sim card guides for them: Qatar ,  Dubai , Bahrain , Oman , Saudi Arabia , Jordan , Lebanon , Israel , etc.

All the international sim cards below can be ordered directly online and will either be shipped to your home address or send directly to your e-mail in case of an e-sim card. In case of a physical prepaid sim card they will come in a 3-in-1 sizes which makes them fit into any smart(phone), tablet or portable WiFi device.

In case of e-sim cards always make sure your smartphone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card.

1. Orange Holiday World  - not available as e-sim card

The international sim card with data that covers EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD. Yes, with this prepaid travel sim you have data roaming included in 197 countries and that is the reason why I listed it as number 1.

The price? It is good compared to other similar sim cards.

Down sides of this Orange international sim card is that you can NOT make or receive phone calls, it is a pure data-only sim card only and this sim card does not come with a phone number. The Orange Holiday World sim card is only valid for 14 days. After these 14 days you can top up online, but it is complicated.

This international prepaid sim card is only offed by SimOptions, one of the most trusted sim card providers on the internet.

Click here to directly order an Orange Holiday World as a prepaid sim card via SimOptions .

Orange was initially referred to as France Telecom. As of today, the network has more than 250 million customers worldwide thanks to its big value data plans and free roaming in EVERY country in the world.

Unfortunately the Orange Holiday World sim card is NOT available as an e-sim card, only as physical prepaid sim card.

Prices and rates Orange Holiday World

The Orange Holiday World international sim card costs $49.90 USD and comes with max 10 GB data included. The volume of the package depends on your destination(s).

You get 10 GB data if you travel to any EU country and/or any of the other countries in Zone 1: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Benin, Botswana, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Liberia, Macao, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Qatar, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Switzerland, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, Uganda, Ukraine, USA, Vietnam

The Orange Holiday World sim card allows you to use 5 GB data in Zone 2: Argentina, Bahrain, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Polynesia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iraq, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Dominican Republic, Uruguay.

You get 1 GB data in: Afghanistan, Belarus, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines, Sri Lanka, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Togo, Venezuela

In any other country you get 50 MB. That is obvious not a lot and actually pretty useless.

If at any point, you run out of data, calls, or texts, you can top up your sim card online from the Orange website. The same package then costs you only €29 EUR ($31 USD) and you get again up to 10 GB data.

Review Orange Holiday World

If you are traveling to any of the countries listed in Zone 1 or Zone 2 then the Orange Holiday World is an excellent prepaid global sim card that I would recommend to buy.

Personally I wish the package would be valid for a little more than 14 days and I am missing some countries in the Caribbean that could be useful to add as these are popular tourist destinations for people traveling from the USA.

There is NO activation needed as the sim card automatically activates upon insertion in your phone, tablet or WiFi device. It is like plug and play. The credit validity starts when the sim card connects the first time to a supported network. Basically when the plane lands.

Lots of travelers from different parts of the world opt for Orange Holiday World because they are generous with data and cheap compared to other international sim cards. Therefore I call Orange Holiday World one of the best prepaid data sim card for traveling the world.

However, if you are traveling to countries listed in Zone 3 or 4 the Orange Holiday World sim card is NOT the best buy. Orange is also not a great sim card for traveling in the Caribbean.

The Orange Holiday World sim card also a great prepaid sim card for Africa as it covers a wide range of countries with 10 GB data roaming, especially in Central and West Africa. For East Africa check my prepaid sim card guides per country: Egypt , Kenya , Tanzania , South Africa , Uganda , Ethiopia  or the e-sim card below which is ranked as the best international sim card for traveling in Africa.

Click here for more info about the Orange Holiday World sim card .

Orange does offer amazing e-sim cards for traveling to multiple countries, but these are only valid in Europe.

As you can see above these are amazing sim card deals and valid in 39 countries, but limited to Europe only. This makes these one of the best e-sim cards for traveling in Europe .

Click here to order this Orange e-sim cards for traveling in Europe via SimOptions .

2. Jetpac Global

Jetpac is a fairly new e-sim provider and is trying to conquer the market with some incredible e-sim card plans for traveling the world.

At the moment their Jetpac Global e-sim card is valid in 100+ countries. Pretty much all of Europe and East Asia plus Australia, New Zealand, USA and many more countries and Jetpac constantly tries to add countries to the list.

Europe: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Gibraltar, Germany, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City.

Asia: Armenia, Bangladesh, China, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kazachstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam. 

Pacific: Australia, New Zealand.

Americas: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, USA, Uruguay.

Africa: Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Reunion, Tunisia.

This long list of countries where the Jetpac Global e-sim card is valid makes it a perfect e-sim card for traveling to East and Southeast Asia. The only countries missing in South East Asia would be: Singapore, Timor Leste, Brunei, Cambodia and Laos. All other countries in South East Asia are covered.

For traveling to Europe it is also a great e-sim card

Prices and rates Jetpac Global

Jetpac Global is at the moment the cheapest international e-sim card as they have an offer for just $1 USD.

• 1 GB data for 30 days = $1 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $10 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $25 USD
• 15 GB data for 30 days = $30 USD
• 25 GB data for 30 days = $38 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD

Click here to  order a Jetpac Global e-sim card .

The Jetpac Global e-sim card plans are valid for 30 days and the validity starts automatically when it connects for the first time to a network in a country where you can use Jetpac.

Review Jetpac

The Jetpac Global 1 GB data package is obviously a winner at the moment with only $1 USD for 1 GB data in 50+ countries. I am sure this is a promo deal, but as long as it stands Jetpac is the cheapest international e-sim card for travelling abroad in 2024.

Their 30 GB data pack for $45 USD with a rate of only $1.5 USD per Gigabyte is not bad at all for an e-sim card valid in more than 100 countries. Well done Jetpac!

Personally I just wish these e-sim cards are not just valid for 30 days, but like 100 days or more. That would truly make it easier to travel the world with just 1 sim card.

It is a great e-sim card for traveling the world. Especially in Asia but as well in Europe and Middle East. Traveltomtom also listed Jetpac high on the list of the best prepaid and e-sim cards for traveling to Europe in 2024 .

Jetpac Global is only available as an e-sim card and not as a physical prepaid sim card. The Jetpac Global e-sim cards are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. The Jetpac global e-sims are not 5G ready.

An extra advantage of Jetpac Global e-sim cards is that they provide free lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided. This is a complimentary service that no other e-sim card providers offer.

For more info check out the Jetpack website .

3. Discover Global E-Sim Card from Airalo

The easiest and most convenient way to get internet on your phone when traveling abroad in 2024 is an e-sim card. The way e-sim cards work is that through software on your phone (just settings, nothing fancy) you are able to switch to another network. On this network you are able to use the data allowance according to which package you bought and activated.

Mind you this is an e-sim card and NOT a physical sim card. So no need to swap a physical sim card. Just scan the received QR code, follow the steps, instal the e-sim card and activate it. Trust me it is really simple.

With an e-sim card you keep your own phone number and whenever you want to use your own phone number you simply switch networks again in the settings.

Airalo is one of the leading e-sim card providers and Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times all over the world. Airalo offers sim cards for pretty much every country in the world and they also sell 2 international e-sim cards:

• International data-only e-sim card.
• International e-sim card including calling and texting.

Both Discover Global e-sim cards from Airalo are valid in 130 countries, depending on the plan you buy the sim card is valid for 365 days. Traveltomtom has this e-sim card installed on his phone. It is a life saver many times and only costs $69 USD.

Prices Discover Global data-only E-Sim Card

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $9 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $17 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $24 USD
• 5 GB data for 60 days = $35 USD
• 10 GB data for 180 days = $59 USD
• 20 GB data for 365 days = $69 USD

Click here for more info or to order a Discover Global data-only E-Sim Card via Airalo .

Prices Discover Global E-Sim Card including calling/texting

• 1 GB data + 10 minutes + 10 sms for 7 days = $9 USD
• 2 GB data + 20 minutes + 20 sms for 15 days = $17 USD
• 3 GB data + 30 minutes + 30 sms for 30 days = $24 USD
• 5 GB data + 50 minutes + 50 sms for 60 days = $35 USD
• 10 GB data + 100 minutes + 100 sms for 180 days = $59 USD
• 20 GB data + 200 minutes + 200 sms for 365 days = $69 USD

The above data packages are valid in 130 countries:

• Europe: every European country is covered, including: UK, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and Greenland.
• North America: USA, Canada, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Panama, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador
• Asia: China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Macau, Philippines, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan.
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
• South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Paraguay, Bolivia, Uruguay.
• Middle East: Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Yemen.
• Africa: Sudan, South Africa, Zambia, Ghana, Gabon, Eswatini, Central African Republic, Chad, Tunisia, Tanzania, Seychelles, Senegal, Reunion, Kenya, Congo DRC, Republic of Congo, Niger, Nigeria, Morocco, Mali, Madagascar.

Big plus is that the Airalo Global Discover+ e-sim card is 5G ready in many countries.

Click here for more info or to order a Discover Global E-Sim Card including calls/sms directly online via Airalo .

Review Discover Global E-Sim Card

I am very overwhelmed with the amount of countries and especially the exact countries. Almost all the countries above are well known tourist destinations around the world. Fact is that the Discover Global E-sim card is one of the best sim cards for traveling in Africa. It also is by far the best for traveling in South America and Asia. It literally covers almost all countries in these continents.

Personally I have a Discover Global e-sim card activated on my phone as well. I bought the 20 GB valid for 1 year and using it a lot when I go to countries for just a couple days like when I was in Qatar, visiting family in Netherlands for 3 days, a couple days in Turkey, etc. To me this international e-sim card is a game changer! Traveltomtom loves the Discover Global E-sim card.

The downside of the Airalo Discover Global eSim card is that in some lesser known countries like Greenland, Belarus, Gibraltar, Eswatini, Central African Republic, etc. the max data speed is 3G. The performance in these countries is pretty disappointing.

But that said, I mostly only use my Global eSim card from Airalo only for the first hours/day when I am in a new country. Then I mostly opt for a local prepaid sim card, especially in the lesser known countries off the beaten path.

Click here for more info about the Discover Global E-Sim Card from Airalo .

4. Three UK prepaid sim card  - not available as e-sim cards

The sim cards from Three UK allow users to browse in up to 56 countries around the world at no extra costs and therefore is one of the international sim card for traveling abroad. Unfortunately the Three UK international sim cards are not available as e-sim cards, but only as physical sim cards.

These Three UK physical prepaid sim cards are available via SimOptions.

There are 6 data plans available but the PAYG AIO15 and the PAYG AIO20 are only valid in 3 countries and therefore not recommend as a sim card for traveling internationally.

• 10 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 12 GB data for 30 days = $29.90 USD
• 12 GB data valid for 1 year = $59.90 USD
• 24 GB data valid for 1 year = $79.90 USD

Click here to order a Three UK international prepaid sim card via SimOptions .

Prices and rates 3 UK

A Three UK international sim card for travelers start from $24.90 USD which is a great price compared to other international sim cards and it also is valid for 30 days. That is $2.49 USD per Gigabyte.

Data roaming is free in all European countries + the following countries:

Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Israel, Macao, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, United States Virgin Islands, USA, Vietnam.

The Three UK prepaid international sim cards do NOT come with a phone number and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are not supported.

There is no registration needed as this international sim card gets automatically activated from its first use.

Review 3 UK PAYG AIO20

As a lot of Latin America countries are included, this travel sim card is one of the best sim cards for South America as well as Central America. On the contrary the 3 UK sim card is NOT good for traveling in Africa and or Asia.

Little downside is that you can only top up this Three sim card with a UK registered credit card. Therefore after 30 days you can only use this sim card to receive calls and text.

Click here for  more info about a Three UK international sim card .

5. Nomad - Data eSIM for Global

Nomad is a fairly new player on the e-sim card market, but Traveltomtom has used and tested many Nomad e-sim cards in the last months. They sometimes have exceptional good deals for some destinations. Traveltomtom discovered that Nomad has amazing e-sim card deals for Dubai for example.

However, the international e-sim cards from Nomad are rather expensive. They are valid in more than 100 countries though.

Nomad offers data-only eSim cards from eSIM Go and Thruphone. The eSIM Go plans are valid in 139 countries and the Truphone plans are valid in 109 countries.

eSIM Go plans

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $19 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $40 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $57 USD

The eSIM Go plans are valid in 139 countries.

Truphone plans

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $25 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD

The Truphone e-sim cards are valid in 109 countries.

Click here to order a Truphone or eSIM Go e-sim card via Nomad .

Nomad e-sim card specifications

From the moment you buy a Nomad e-sim card you have 30 days to activate the e-sim card. Top-ups are available. 5G is NOT supported. Max data speed is 4G/LTE. The e-sim cards you buy via Nomad are all data-only and do not come with a phone number. Incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported.

Here are the 109 countries where the Truphone e-sim card is valid.

• Europe: every European country is covered, including: UK, Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, Russia
• North America: USA, Canada, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Bermuda, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Guatemala, Grenada, Jamaica, Honduras, Turks & Caicos
• Asia: China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Armenia, Indonesia, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Macau, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, Kazachstan
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Fiji
• South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Peru, Paraguay, Suriname, Guyana, French Guiana
• Middle East: UAE, Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia
• Africa: Mozambique, South Africa, Ghana, Congo Brazzaville, Mayotte, Reunion, Tanzania

The eSIM Go e-sim cards are valid in the above countries plus: Algeria, Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, Morocco, Tajikistan, Yemen and a bunch more off the beaten path countries.

The Nomad Global e-sim cards are great for traveling in North America, South America and even Pacific as it covers a lot of countries in these continents.

For traveling in Europe it is way too expensive. Check out my list of the best prepaid and e-sim cards for traveling in Europe in 2024  for much cheaper deals.

Click here for  more info about the Nomad Global esim cards .

6. eSim2FLY Global

AIS is a mobile internet provider from Thailand. This e-sim card for international travel to more than 140 countries is a data-only sim card and incoming and outgoing calls and texts are not possible.

• 6 GB data valid for 15 days = $39.90 USD

Click here to  order the eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card via SimOptions .

eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card specifications

This e-sim card is valid in 141 countries around the world:

Afghanistan, Aland Islands, Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Australia (5G), Austria (5G), Azerbaijan, Bahrain (5G), Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium (5G), Bhutan (5G), Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil (5G), Brunei (5G), Bulgaria (5G), Cambodia, Canada (5G), Chad, Chile, China + Tibet (5G), Colombia, Congo, Costa Rica, Croatia (5G), Cyprus, Czech Republic (5G), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark (5G), Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, England (5G), Estonia (5G), Faroe Islands, Fiji, Finland (5G), France (5G), Gabon, Georgia, Germany (5G), Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece (5G), Greenland, Guam (5G), Guatemala (5G), Guernsey,

Honduras, Hong Kong (5G), Hungary (5G), Iceland (5G), India, Indonesia (5G), Iran (5G), Ireland (5G), Isle of Man, Israel (5G), Italy (5G), Japan (5G), Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait (5G), Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia (5G), Liechtenstein, Lithuania (5G), Luxembourg (5G), Macau (5G), Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia (5G), Maldives (5G), Malta (5G), Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco.

Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands (5G), New Zealand (5G), Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Ireland, Northern Cyprus, Norway (5G), Oman (5G), Pakistan, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines (5G), Poland (5G), Portugal (5G), Puerto Rico (5G), Qatar (5G), Reunion, Romania (5G), Russia (5G), San Marino (5G), Saudi Arabia (5G), Scotland (5G), Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore (5G), Slovakia (5G), Slovenia (5G), Solomon Islands, South Africa (5G), South korea (5G), Spain (5G), Sri Lanka, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Swaziland, Sweden (5G), Switzerland (5G), Taiwan (5G), Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkey (5G), Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates (5G), Uruguay, US Virgin Islands, USA (5G), Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City (5G), Vietnam (5G), Wales (5G), Western Samoa.

Big plus about eSIM2FLY from AIS is that it is one of the only international sim card that is 5G ready. However, it is also much more expensive and only valid for 15 days.

Click here for  more info about the eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card .

Holafly is a very popular e-sim provider and they have e-sim cards for all popular tourist destinations around the world. Since Holafly is a popular e-sim is has to be part of this list of the best international sim cards.

However, Holafly mostly works with sim cards with unlimited data. Traveltomtom is not of using sim cards with unlimited data because this does not mean at high speed. There is a so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP) and if you go over that quota your data speed is reduced to basically comparable to an E signal. Barely enough to send photos through WhatsApp. Social Media apps won't be working anymore.

In fact, Holafly does not have a global plan which is for example valid in several countries on different continents. Holafly has different e-sim cards per continent:

• North America
• Latin America

The rates per regional e-sim differ a little bit but in general comes down to the following plans:

• 1 day 'unlimited' data = $6 USD
• 2 days 'unlimited' data = $10 USD
• 3 days 'unlimited' data = $13 USD
• 4 days 'unlimited' data = $16 USD
• 5 days 'unlimited' data = $21 USD
• 6 days 'unlimited' data = $25 USD
• 7 days 'unlimited' data = $29 USD
• 8 days 'unlimited' data = $31 USD
• 9 days 'unlimited' data = $35 USD
• 10 days 'unlimited' data = $37 USD
• 11 days 'unlimited' data = $40 USD
• 14 days 'unlimited' data = $48 USD
• 20 days 'unlimited' data = $64 USD
• 30 days 'unlimited' data = $75 USD

The Holafly e-sim cards are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These e-sims do also not come with a phone number. The Holafly e-sims operate on the 4G/LTE network and are not 5G ready.

8. Surfroam

A Surfroam international sim card is a data only global sim card. With mobile coverage in 200+ countries and territories as they state on the Surfroam website.

You can not receive and make phone calls however you can receive sms. Also Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp and Viber are unlimited and always accessible when buying a Surfroam prepaid travel sim card.

Prices and rates Surfroam

At Surfroam they offer 2 products: a normal sim card for €15 EUR ($16.4 USD) and an e-sim card for €20 EUR ($22 USD). Basically Surfroam is a free international prepaid sim card as you get either €15 EUR ($16.4 USD) or €20 EUR ($22 USD) credit INCLUDED.

The common rate for most Western countries is €0.01 per MB, which means €10 EUR ($11 USD) per 1 GB data. They charge you per MB. See here a quick overview of the costs per MB per continent.

Review Surfroam

As opposed to other world sim cards, with Surfroam you don’t need to buy data bundles in advance. This flexibility appeals to long-term travelers or those hopping between different countries of the world constantly.

Also a big plus of Surfroam is that they are providing a ‘free’ international sim card, what you pay, you get back in credit.

Overall, the Surfroam data roaming rates and its pricing model is flexible and easy to understand. Compared to other international sim cards this is very clear, transparent AND MUCH CHEAPER!

There is data roaming coverage in over 200 countries and territories and per country is stated how much they charge per MB.

One of the negative sides of Surfroam are the steep shipping costs. For most Western countries you already pay more than $20 USD, for the USA Surfroam adds even $25 USD shipping fee. Therefore I would recommend you buying the Surfroam e-sim travel sim card instead to save on shipping costs.

Also when looking at the rates per MB of the countries in Africa, it is an easy conclusion that Surfroam is a good sim cards for traveling in Africa, but not so much for South America.

For more info check out the  Surfroam  website.

Traveltomtom traveled to more than 70% of the countries in Africa and wrote detailed sim card guides for the following countries in Africa: Kenya , Nairobi ,  Tanzania , Ethiopia , Djibouti , South Africa , Uganda , Gabon , Cameroon , Congo Brazzaville ,  Rwanda , Burundi ,  Namibia , Lesotho , Zambia ,  Egypt , Ghana , Sao Tome & Principe , Ivory Coast and many more. If you travel to any of these countries I would recommend you to check the link.

KeepGo is an official partner of Vodafone, Telefonica, and AT&T with offices in Israel, the USA, and the Netherlands and operates on 500 connected networks in more than 100 countries. The Keepgo international sim card is a data only sim card and does NOT support any incoming or outgoing calls & text.

Prices and rates KeepGo

Gofi prepaid data sim card - $39 usd.

This is a sim card just for Europe and the USA. With this pay as you go sim card you pay $8 / GB data, regardless where in Europe or the USA you are.

Not great for world travelers, but may be if you travel between the USA and Europe a lot.

Lifetime Prepaid Data Sim Card - $49 USD

This international sim card works in more than 100 countries and comes with 1 GB data included.

If you want more data you will have to add one of the data packages below:

• $14 USD= 500 MB
• $26 USD = 1 GB
• $61 USD = 3 GB
• $88 USD = 5 GB
• $165 USD = 10 GB

Click here to order a KeepGo international sim card .

The data packages are valid for 1 year! If you top up once per year, all data is valid for lifetime.

The Keepgo Lifetime Prepaid Data Sim Card is valid in all of Europe and the following countries & territories:

Algeria, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba Australia, Azerbaijan, Barbados, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Georgia, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Macao, Malaysia, Mexico, Montserrat, Myanmar, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Russia, Saoudi Arbia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunesia, Turkey, Turks & Caicos, USA, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vietnam.

Review Keepgo

Buying a Keepgo global sim card it self is rather expensive as you pay $49 and only get 1 GB included. Good thing is that Traveltomtom readers can get a 10% discount by applying the KeepGo Coupon Code: TRAVELTOMTOM. They also sell WiFi hotspots for international travel.

The Keepgo data package prices are rather expensive, but compared to other international sim cards they have better prices than for example OneSimCard, Travsim and Gosim and therefore they deserve spot number 6 in this list of the cheapest international travel sim cards in the world.

Coverage wise the Keepgo sim card has some specific advantages. Looking at the list of countries where Keepgo offers free data roaming I come to the conclusion that Keepgo is also one of the best international sim cards for the Caribbean. They cover almost every island, territory and country in this pristine part of the world.

Keepgo offers free shipping worldwide which is another great plus. For more info check the KeepGo website .

If traveling to the Caribbean it is definitely recommended to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival. Prepaid sim cards with data are cheap. Check out Traveltomtom's sim card guides for: Aruba , Curacao , Jamaica , Santo Domingo , Dominican Republic , Antigua & Barbuda .

10. Know Roaming

They call themselves the ultimate travel sim card you will only ever need to stay connected in 200+ countries & territories.

Prices and rates Know Roaming

The price for a Know Roaming Travel SIM card is $9,99 and does NOT come with any credit. Know Roaming international sim cards do NOT support incoming and outgoing phone calls. You can opt for a Know Roaming e-sim which is for free.

You will have to buy any of the below data packages to use your sim card abroad:

• Global: 5 GB data for 30 days in 79 countries = $99.99 USD
• Europe: 5 GB data for 30 days = $39.99 USD
• Asia: 5 GB data for 30 days = $39.99* USD

* valid in: Australia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.

Know Roaming also offers an international e-sim card service with data plans for Europe, Asia, Caribbean, Latin America, Middle East & Global.

• Asia: 5 GB data for 30 days = $39.99 USD
• Caribbean: 1 GB data for 30 days = $39.99* USD
• Latin America: 5 GB data for 30 days = $117.99** USD
• Middle East: 5 GB data for 30 days = $40.99*** USD
• Global: 5 GB data for 30 days = $110.99**** USD

* valid in: Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, El Salvador, French Guyana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands.

** valid in: Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Mexico, Uruguay.

*** valid in: Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Saoudi Arabia, Qatar.

**** valid in Europe & some popular tourist destinations around the world + some off the beaten path countries.

Review Know Roaming

Compared to other international sim card services the Know Roaming sim card is cheap: just $10. Their global data packages are average priced compared to other services and you can choose per continent.

For the Know Roaming e-sim you only pay for the data package which is a great service and therefore prices are cheaper than other services.

Know Roaming is one of the best prepaid international sim cards for the Caribbean as they cover almost every island, however data roaming is expensive. The Know Roaming Latin America sim card is way overpriced and not recommended at all. Instead Know Roaming is one of the best sim cards for Asia.

For more info about the Know Roaming travel sim card check their website .

11. Travelsim

A Travelsim international sim card works in 135+ countries, covers 170+ countries and states to work in 200 countries. All information found on their homepage! Just like free incoming calls and text. Well, I bet some of this is true at least.

Prices and rates Travelsim

Travelsim offers a world sim card for $10 USD and an e-sim card for $6. When buying a Travelsim sim card it also suddenly states free incoming calls in 70+ countries and coverage in 135+ countries. :)

Their pricing and rates are clear and straight forward though.

Review Travelsim

When ordering a Travelsim international sim card prices are easy to understand, however more expensive than other global sim cards and therefore not my prefered sim card for travelers. They offer free shipping worldwide on orders over $50 USD and their calling credit is valid for 18 months. For more info check the Travelsim website .

12. GigSky E-sim Card

GigSky does NOT sell physical sim cards anymore and only offers an international e-sim card. There are multiple data packages available some with pretty good deals. Gigsky is a data only service, you can NOT make or receive phone calls/sms.

Gigsky has coverage in 116 countries. Their coverage in Africa is very limited.

Prices and rates Gigsky

Great thing is that the Gigsky e-sim cards are free, but you will need to download their app to use their service. Through the app you can buy your desired data bundles. They offer regional data packages as well as a World Plan.

There are multiple Regional Plans, a great one is the Latin America sim card, and there is 1 world sim card with fixed data bundle prices.

Review Gigsky

Some of the offered international data roaming plans are pretty decent. Overall Gigsky is one of the best sim cards for traveling in South America with 5GB in almost every country in Latin America for just $40 USD.

Compared to other international travel sim cards the Gigsky worldwide sim card is expensive with 5GB data for $60 USD and therefore I would NOT recommend using the Gigsky e-sim card for traveling the world. The international sim card deals above are much better value for money!

Or check out the following sim card guides:

• Traveling to Europe? Check out my article about the best sim cards for Europe .
• Traveling to Asia? Check out my article about the best sim cards for Asia .
• Traveling to the USA? Check out my article about the best sim cards for USA .

For example buying a sim card in Vietnam will cost you $9 USD and gets you 2 GB data PER DAY + 60 minutes calling time valid for 30 days. Just saying, that local prepaid sim cards are amazing alternatives to international prepaid sim cards.

However, nowadays the easiest way to stay connected are e-sim cards and you can buy an e-sim card on the internet for pretty much every country. Here are some of the latest Traveltomtom e-sim card guides: Italy , France , USA , Thailand .

13. OneSimCard

According to many websites OneSimCard takes the cup when it comes to the cheapest international sim card. But is this true? Let's see...

This prepaid mobile service provider is a product of US telecommunication carrier Belmont Telecom. At OneSimCard they say they operate in 200+ countries, but there are only 197 countries in the world!? Bit of a weird start…

The international sim cards offered by OneSimCard come with two numbers, an Estonian one (Europe) and one of your choice: USA, Canada, Australia.

Prices and rates OneSimCard

Anyway at OneSimCard they offer 4 different international sim cards:

Universal SIM - $29.95 USD

• Calling & texting in more than 160 countries*
• Free incoming calls in more than 120 countries
• Free incoming sms in more than 160 countries
• Data roaming in more than 160 countries*
• Free $10 credit

*For using data and make calls/sms you will have to buy additional data or voice packages.

Expedition SIM - $34.95 USD

• Calling & texting in more than 200 countries*
• Free incoming calls in more than 110 countries
• Free incoming sms in more than 200 countries
• Data roaming in more than 170 countries*

Europe & More SIM - $19.95 USD

• Calling & texting in more than 100 countries*
• Free incoming calls in more than 70 countries
• Free incoming sms in more than 100 countries
• Data roaming in more than 90 countries*

This is no physical sim card, but a digital SIM. It allows you to have a data/call package activated through a provider without using a physical sim card. It mostly works by installing an app.

At OneSimCard they offer an international eSIM for $9,95. It does NOT come with any credit, you will have to buy data and calling bundles at extra charge through the OneSIMVoIP app.

The OneSimCard eSIM comes with a European number and has coverage in over 160 countries. There is no shipping needed as you can download it on your phone instantly.

Additional data roaming packages

OneSimCard makes use of two different zones. In Zone A you will find mostly all western countries as well as the standard tourist destinations in the world. In Zone B will find more off the beaten path countries.

The OneSimCard data plan prices are pretty expensive. Here are some examples:

• Universal SIM - Zone A - 5 GB data - 30 days = $90 USD
• Universal SIM - Zone B - 5 GB data - 30 days = $199 USD
• Expedition SIM - Zone A - 2 GB data - 30 days = $20 USD
• Expedition SIM - Zone B - 2 GB data - 30 days = $99 USD
• Europe & More SIM - Zone A - 3 GB data - 30 days = $50 USD
• Europe & More SIM - Zone B - 3 GB data - 30 days = $99 USD

These are examples of kind of standard tourist data packages. Well if you ask me… EXPENSIVE!

Review OneSimCard

Personally I think OneSimCard is very expensive. First off they basically make you pay for an international sim card that has no packages included. When you take away the $10 USD free credit you are still paying $10 USD just for an international sim card only. When buying the Expedition SIM even $24.95 USD

It also states everywhere data roaming from $0.01 cent per MB. Well, I have tried to look for that country, but I can’t find it! Instead, I found out that basically all Western countries you pay $0.25 cent per MB. That is 25x more!

That also means $10 credit is just 40 MB, that is basically opening Instagram 1x and your credit is gone! Oh for example roaming in Algeria cost $1.75 per MB with a Universal SIM and $25 USD per MB with an Expedition SIM. That is $1,000 USDjust for opening Instagram! I am dying… :)

So other international sim card comparisons that recommend OneSimCard... I think are a joke!

All that glitters is not gold in the global sim card world and as you can predict I do not recommend buying a OneSimCard for using data abroad, but just for receiving calls they are ok. For more info check the OneSimCard website .

To put this all in perspective:  buying a prepaid sim card in Switzerland , one of worlds most expensive countries, will cost you $20 USD and but it comes with $20 USD credit. Then you activate 24 hours unlimited high speed internet for $3 USD in Switzerland. That means for $21 USD you have 1 week UNLIMITED high speed internet when buying a local sim card in Swiss.

Conclusion of OneSimCard: really expensive data roaming plans and therefore is OneSimCard not directly recommended for using as an international sim card for traveling the world.

14. WorldSIM

Another global sim card that claims to be a free international sim card, well… A WorldSIM International travel sim card is only ‘free’ if you add €120 EUR ($131 USD) credit to it! Not a great start when Traveltomtom is reviewing your service.

WorldSIM offers a data roaming only sim card as well as an international sim card for calling/texting. They are priced equally, however data roaming with the calling/texting sim card is much more expensive. The data sim card offers data roaming in 188 countries.

Prices and rates WorldSIM

The cheapest deal you can find on WorldSIM is €42 EUR ($46 USD). You will get a global sim card with €24 EUR ($26 USD) credit.

Just like for example OneSimCard they claim data roaming rates from 0,01 cents but I can’t find that country. In most Western countries and popular tourist destinations data roaming starts from 0,02 cents.

Review WorldSIM

For a reason it is only listed at spot X in my comparison of the best international sim cards. WorldSIM is pretty expensive and the cheapest data roaming is €20 EUR ($22 USD) per 1 GB data.

Most countries off the beaten path are VERY expensive. Don’t go to Cuba, that costs you more than $3 USD per MB, that is $3,000 USD per 1 GB or what about the Caribbean countries? About $0.30 per MB, that is $300 USD per 1 GB.

When looking for an international sim card for traveling the world then Traveltomtom does NOT recommend WorldSIM, simply because there are much cheaper options available. For more info check the Worldsim website .

Prepaid tourist sim cards vs. international sim cards

But before buying an international prepaid or e-sim card for your trip abroad I want to make you aware of the existence of local prepaid sim cards as well. Because the main reason I am writing this blog post is for you to save money on high roaming costs when traveling. In most cases local prepaid sim cards are the cheapest way to get data on your phone.

There is a big difference between local prepaid sim cards for tourists and international travel sim cards. While the former is great for traveling in 1 country, an international sim card is a great option for travelers who don’t intend to stay in a country for very long and visit multiple countries on one trip.

An exception is a European sim card. There are international sim cards created just for Europe, but also a lot of local prepaid sim cards in Europe allow FREE roaming within the EU. But it is a bit more complicated with a lot of small letters full of restrictions.

Click here for more information about buying a local prepaid sim card in Europe in 2024  or check my list of the best prepaid and e-sim cards for Europe travel in 2024 .

For example all the below listed international sim cards claim to cover Africa. Yes, they are not lying, but the rates per MB are averaging around $0.10, that means 100 MB will cost you $10. That can be as little as using Instagram for about 10 minutes.

Comparing this to a local prepaid sim card for tourists in Uganda  where the same $10 gives you more than 15 GB data for 1 month, you can understand why Traveltomtom recommends a local prepaid sim card over a global sim card in some countries.

What is cheaper?

A local prepaid sim card for tourists gives you often more value for money than an international sim card. Therefore in the beginning of this article I told you that you will have to decide whether you want to buy an international sim card for traveling abroad or buying a local prepaid sim card for tourists on arrival.

Because I am aiming to travel to every country in the world  and I buy a sim card in every country I visit I also already wrote already more than 200 guides for buying sim cards:  London , Paris , Tanzania , Lebanon ,  Rome , USA , Canada , Mexico , South Africa ,  Guatemala , Honduras ,  Turkey , Israel , Dubai , Thailand , Kenya ,  Indonesia , Sydney , Singapore ,  Vietnam , UK , Spain , Italy , France , Norway , Georgia , Colombia , Dominican Republic  and many more.

Local prepaid sim cards are often pretty cheap and come with big value data bundles. Most countries and operators have special tourist sim cards. Downside is that you can only buy them on arrival, so you have to visit a phone store during your holiday or get one from the airport.

In most countries they only provide physical prepaid sim cards for tourists and e-sim cards are not available.

But where local prepaid sim cards stop working, international sim cards continue to roam. With a sim card designed with overseas travel in mind, you will be online as soon as the plane touches the ground.

With international sim cards, you can cross borders and continue to enjoy data on your phone browsing the internet, make/receive calls, and send texts as if you are still at home all with the same sim card.

Crossing many borders in a short period of time? International travel sim cards are the best solution! Which one? Personally I recommend e-sim cards for traveling in 2024, but check my list below.

Where can you buy an international sim card?

Buying an international sim card can only be done on the internet often through a third party. In this article I will show you the best websites where to buy a global sim card for world travelers and I will link directly to the operators so in case you are interested you can have a look on their websites for more details.

International sim cards for traveling the world are available as physical prepaid sim cards as well as e-sim cards. Physical prepaid sim cards will be delivered to your home address and e-sim cards will be send to you as a QR code in your email.

Where can you buy local prepaid sim cards for tourists

Local prepaid sim cards can only be bought in a store or kiosk in the destination itself. In almost every country you will find local prepaid sim card shops on arrival at the international airport. On Traveltomtom you can find sim card guides for more than 100 airports around the world: Bangkok , Jakarta , Manila ,  Bali , Hong Kong , Singapore , Shanghai ,  Sydney , Istanbul , Cairo , Dubai , New York , Miami , London , Rome , Paris , Madrid , Barcelona ,  Amsterdam and many more.

Keep in mind that buying a local prepaid sim card on an international airport is mostly more expensive. You can get better prepaid sim card deals from official retail stores in city centers, shopping malls or from random mobile phone shops.

In some countries you can also buy local prepaid sim cards in convenience stores, gas stations or supermarkets. Keep in mind when buying a local prepaid sim card in any of these shops that you will mostly have to activate the sim card yourself. That means it is not plug and play.

Two things that both local and international sim cards have in common is that they avoid high roaming costs!

International sim cards with unlimited data

Traveltomtom does NOT recommend e-sim cards with unlimited data. In most cases 'unlimited' does NOT mean 'unlimited' and there is always a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy). Holafly is one of those e-sim card providers that sell international e-sim cards with unlimited data, but they have a strict FUP. Always read the small letters to not get surprised!

In the past I often had negative experiences with sim cards with unlimited data. If one day you use more than the FUP limit you have to wait 24 hours for your data speed to get restored. Those 24 hours your international sim card with unlimited data is pretty much useless. It is simply really inconvenient.

If you buy an international sim card with for example 30 GB data and you are going on a holiday for 10 days then you should have more than enough data. Those 30 GB data sim cards are pretty much the same as a sim card with unlimited data in these cases. But you will not need to be worried about the Fair Use Policy and data speed reduction.

Can international sim cards connect from everywhere?

Technically speaking – yes. International sim cards are designed to work in multiple countries, but as you have read above there are a ton of restrictions. An international sim card isn’t programmed to one specific network. Instead, it operates on several networks in different geographical locations and can therefore be used in multiple countries.

International sim cards usually operate on networks that use the GSM framework. GSM stands for Global Systems Management Communications. Once the sim card is inserted, it connects to one of the local networks automatically if the plan you chose works in the country you are traveling to.

If you intend to use your phone with an international sim card, you have to make sure your phone is unlocked as well as e-sim compatible in case you are choosing to use an e-sim card over a physical prepaid sim card.

International sim cards only work in unlocked phones

As previously mentioned, you need an unlocked phone for the international sim card to work. A cell that comes with a sim lock can only be used within a defined cellular network and is blocked for any other networks.

This mostly applies to phones bought in the USA, Canada. Phones bought in Europe, Australia, Middle East are mostly unlocked.

There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a new phone if you can get your current one unlocked by your carrier. Once your phone has been unlocked, you can easily switch to any local or international sim card whenever you need to.

If you have a sim lock, I recommend you to unlock your phone before your trip. Contact your local mobile service provider to ask them to unlock the phone and find out if you’re required to pay any unlocking charge.

Do you really need an international sim card?

International sim cards are also referred to as travel sim cards and that is simply because of how convenient they can be for travelers visiting multiple countries. If you don’t want to worry about roaming charges while you are traveling abroad and crossing broders, you can purchase an international sim card.

But if you are visiting just one country on your trip abroad you can easily opt for a local prepaid sim card or an e-sim card for that specific country and there is no direct need to buy an international sim card that is valid in multiple countries.

If you use a lot of data then in general local prepaid sim cards are cheaper than e-sim cards, but e-sim cards are much more convenient as you can order them already online before your trip and as soon as the plane lands you are online.

On Traveltomtom you will find more than 200 sim card guides from all around the world: Tajikistan , Papua New Guinea , Uzbekistan , Izmir , Marseille , Tashkent , Algeria , Curacao , Zurich , Bangkok , Bali , Micronesia , Miami , Manila , Shanghai , Philippines , Brazil , Mexico , Zambia , Ghana  and many more.

With a prepaid sim card you are always in control of your bills!

I cannot stress enough about the importance of staying connected while you travel. International sim cards avoid being charged exorbitant data roaming charges. Enjoy low and affordable rates with no hidden fees by getting an international sim card.

Which international sim card is the best? Did you already pick from all the great options that I recommended you? Of course Traveltomtom recommends the ones on top of the list more than the options on the bottom. The last ones are the least recommended but I just wanted to give you all the options, so you could make up your own mind about which international sim card you are going to use for your trip abroad.

I am sure that at least some of the the above tips for buying an international sim card were helpful.

Summerizing:

Remember that there are several factors that you need to put into consideration such as country coverage, prices for data plans, data speed 4G/LTE/5G, calling options, data-only, SMS packages, credit validity and duration/validity.

At the end of the day, the best international sim card is the one that suits your needs and your trip.

If you have any more questions please feel free to leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help you out.

Since Traveltomtom is on a journey to travel to every country in the world I get to a new country regularly. Everywhere I go I buy a new local prepaid sim card or I order an e-sim card on the internet. In my bag I have a collection of about 200 little prepaid sim cards from all over the world, but nowadays I use e-sim cards pretty much all the time because they are so convenient.

Is this article was helpful please consider helping me in return by sharing this article in the internet. Every tweet on X, post to Reddit, share in a Facebook Group or pin on Pinterest is worth a lot to me. Thanks in advance!

Looking for some extra travel inspiration? Check out my Instagram profile @traveltomtom and get fuelled by my journey to visit every country in the world . As of April 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries around the world.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Travel & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Some links in this article about the best international travel sim cards are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using 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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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

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

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Buy Your USA SIM Cards In Australia. Best Prepaid Sim For Travel

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 Aussie Tourists.

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Best Prepaid SIM Cards for USA Travel in 2024 : Stay Connected & Save!

Heading to the USA in 2024? Wondering how to stay connected without the headache of hefty roaming fees? Let's demystify the USA prepaid SIM card and find you a hassle-free, cost-effective solution!

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. 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 for 2024, 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 Australia 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 card for the USA . 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. T his is a great all-rounder option for Australian travellers who want Unlimited data at a great value.

Will my phone work in the US?

Most Australian 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 Australia, 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 Australia?

To get USA SIM cards in Australia, 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 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. We also provide shipping Australia 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 Australia-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 Australian travellers below.

#1 Customers Choice

T-mobile unlimited data usa sim card -.

SimCorner has been selling this USA SIM card plan for over 8 years, and it is frequently recommended by customers. This is a great all-rounder option for Australian 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 Australia’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 Australian tourists
• Price Beat Guarantee

About SimCorner

SimCorner is Australia’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 Australian 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 Australian 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. While you’re packing your suitcase, you can also find travel necessities , accessories , and journals in our range.

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 Australia?

To get USA Sim cards in Australia, 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 Australian 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 Australia 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 Australia-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.

Most Australian 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 and AT&T, so you can enjoy the best coverage and data speeds as if you lived there.

How easy is it to activate and use the SIM card?

Our prepaid SIM card for USA travel is super easy to set up and use. You just need to:

- Pop-out your SIM card

- Insert it in your phone and it will be ready for use

Make sure you’ve selected your plan’s dates to match up with your arrival time. We do also recommend choosing a generous data plan in case as if you run out you won’t be able to add data onto your original SIM card. If your plan runs out, you will need to buy a new SIM card which can also be dispatched in NZ, UK, and Canada.

What networks is the SIM compatible with within the USA?

Our visitor SIM cards for the USA are compatible with either T-Mobile 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 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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• Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.

Find wireless carriers and worldwide service providers that offer eSIM service

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile data plan from your network provider without having to use a physical nano-SIM. Find out which wireless carriers in your country or region offer cellular plans on an eSIM, either activated by eSIM Carrier Activation, eSIM Quick Transfer, or other activation methods. Many carriers also support eSIM activation on prepaid plans, if you want to use a local line while traveling internationally. Worldwide service providers also offer eSIM plans in over 190 countries and regions to use while at home or when you travel. If your iPhone is unlocked, you can also use eSIM plans offered by other carriers.

Learn about eSIM on iPhone and how to Use eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone .

Wireless carriers that support eSIM Carrier Activation

With eSIM Carrier Activation, your carrier can assign an eSIM to your iPhone digitally at the time of purchase, or if you call your carrier for an eSIM after setup.

Lucky Mobile

Virgin Plus

Magyar Telekom

Reliance Jio

New Zealand

Puerto Rico

T-Mobile USA

South Korea

Switzerland

Chunghwa Telecom

Taiwan Mobile

United Kingdom

United States

Boost Mobile

Boost Infinite

Caroline West Wireless

Credo Mobile

H2O Wireless

Nex-Tech Wireless

Spectrum Mobile

Straight Talk

Strata Networks

Verizon Wireless

Xfinity Mobile

Wireless carriers that support eSIM Quick Transfer

With eSIM Quick Transfer, you can transfer your phone number from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without contacting your carrier. You can also convert your physical SIM to an eSIM.

Rakuten Mobile

SK T elecom

United Arab Emirates

Cellcom Wisconsin

Wireless carriers that support other eSIM activation methods

In addition to eSIM Carrier Activation and eSIM Quick Transfer, these carriers support other ways of activating eSIM on iPhone, like scanning a QR code or using a carrier app.

VIVA Armenia

BetterRoaming

Grameenphone

Bhutan Telecom

Burkina Faso

Hrvatski Telekom

Dominican Republic

Bouygues Telecom

French West Indies

Docomo Pacific

China Mobile Hong Kong

MTX Connect

Tango Mobile

Mauritius Telecom

Crnogorski Telekom

Maroc Telecom

Netherlands

North Macedonia

Makedonski Telekom

Philippines

Saudi Arabia

Cable & Wireless

Slovak Telekom

A1 Slovenija

South Africa

Taiwan Star

Türkiye

Turk Telekom

Virgin Mobile

Appalachian Wireless

Carolina West Wireless

Chat Mobility

Consumer Cellular

Copper Valley Telecom

Metro by T-Mobile

Mint Mobile

NorthwestCell

Optimum Mobile

Pioneer Wireless

Thumb Cellular

Union Wireless

United Wireless

West Central Wireless

Wireless carriers that support eSIM activation on prepaid plans for international travelers

When traveling, you can stay connected through an international roaming plan from your existing carrier. Alternatively, these carriers offer prepaid plans if you would like a local line while traveling internationally.

Cable and Wireless

Worldwide service providers

Worldwide service providers allow you to stay connected with prepaid data plans that you can use at home or when you travel in over 190 countries and regions. You can also purchase a plan before traveling, making staying connected even easier.

CMLink eSIM

DENT Wireless

Redtea Mobile

Soracom Mobile

Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Contact the vendor for additional information.

Related topics

I got remarried, and I'm raising 3 boys in a blended family. Kid-free travel helps us bond as a couple.

• Sara Lyle and her husband both  went through divorces and now have  shared custody of three sons with their exes.
• They let off parental stress by getting away without the kids — a tactic recommended by experts as well.
• Kid-free travel allows them to reconnect as a couple and counteract the demands of blending a family.

Last Christmas, my youngest son got me a "Wonder Mom" coffee mug from his school's holiday fair. It's red and blue with yellow stars and makes me smile whenever I see it in the cupboard. While I appreciate the sweet gesture, the gift didn't come with any superpowers. If it did, they would come in handy on school days. Allow me to explain.

My husband and I are raising a blended family with three boys — 8, 13, and 15 — who each go to a different school with slightly different start times. We have one car, so ensuring they arrive before the last bell rings requires Swiss time-keeping precision.

To beat the clock, I get up at 6:30 a.m. and head downstairs to cook breakfast for the five of us while my husband takes care of waking up the kids. Most mornings, I make a few variations of breakfast because we have a mix of picky eaters and food allergies to accommodate, and I want to make sure they have something healthy-ish in their stomachs before leaving. There are medications and vitamins to remember, school IDs and water bottles to pack, and the dog needs to be fed, too.

Once the boys are off, my husband leaves for work, and I get started on my to-dos from the home office. After school, there are pickups, extracurricular activities, dinner, and bedtimes to juggle. My husband and I finally take off for the night around 9:30 p.m., assuming there isn't any last-minute laundry to do.

Parental burnout is on the rise

We aren't the only ones with a schedule like this — to say nothing of dealing with work, financial and other pressures — which is why it makes sense that parental burnout is so high .

A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that parents of children under 18 reported a significant increase in stress levels compared to pre-pandemic times. To be exact, 33% of parents now rate their stress between 8 and 10 on a 10-point scale, a 9% increase since 2019.

The APA also looked at the impact of parental burnout and recommended various strategies to "enhance resilience in parenting" such as going on vacations without the children or simply taking "microbreaks" throughout the day. This can be as simple as listening to a guided meditation in the car after running an errand.

While the microbreaks idea was a new one that I might try, my husband and I were already well-acquainted with the relationship-strengthening remedy of getting away sans kids. It makes me a better mom, too. Here's what I mean.

A balance of family vacations and solo getaways

Since my husband and I blended our households last year, we've been intentional about doing activities and outings with all three of the boys to create family memories and build some lifelong bonds.

So far, we've gone on some fun ones, including a long weekend in Colorado Springs for our wedding with the boys last summer. This fall, we're looking forward to a Caribbean cruise for a nephew's wedding.

Related stories

However, between orchestrating the travel logistics to refereeing flare-ups along the way, it can feel like we need a vacation from our family vacation when we get home.

Then, there are the realities of reentry: unpacking everything you packed before, washing the dirty clothes, putting away the laundry and luggage, and catching up on all the other stuff you missed while you were away. For us, multiply that by five.

Getting away as a couple ? It's a comparative breeze. Even just staying for a Friday or Saturday night in nearby Denver allows us to reconnect and recharge, making us better able to handle the ups and downs of modern-day parenting.

We weren't together, pre-kids

My husband and I were never a couple before having kids; we were with other partners. Now, because we share custody with our exes , there are times we are without all three of our sons. Missing them can be tough, but we cherish the opportunities we have to be as "cringe-y" as we want — a term used by our youngest regarding too much PDA — and have some non-parental fun.

Spring break this year was a blast, for example. We spent half the time soaking up the Florida sunshine, seeing family and friends in our shared hometown. Then, we hopped over to New Orleans to enjoy the French Quarter revelries and basically eat our way around town — minus any dietary restrictions from the kids.

Last fall was another adventure, hitting the streets of my old stomping grounds in New York City for five days. Stay up late, wake up late, rinse, and repeat. They don't call it the city that never sleeps for nothing.

Sure, there are heart-twinging moments when we think about the boys — what they might enjoy or find overwhelming about where we're visiting — but we wouldn't trade our kid-free trips for anything.

We learn about ourselves

One of my favorite things about travel, in general, is coming back a whole new person. Getting out of your comfort zone can transform the way you think or see the world. I have experienced this phenomenon in varying degrees at different times in my life, from the summer in high school when I stayed with a friend's family in France to the seven years my son and I lived in Singapore and had the chance to travel around Southeast Asia .

There are so many places my husband and I want to visit together, and we're eager to cross them off our now-shared bucket list.

Speaking of the list, we realize we probably have fewer years ahead of us than behind us, and we aren't waiting for retirement to enjoy the here and now. It's also wonderful to know I can explore the world with my favorite person at my side, holding my hand.

Traveling without our kids is not about abandoning ship, it's about refilling our cups. Child-free vacations might not be an option for everyone, but even a staycation can do wonders.

Got a personal essay about living abroad or parenting that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor: [email protected] .

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

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