Traveling to the US and need mobile data? Getting a local prepaid SIM card can provide you with affordable data plans during your trip. This guide will cover everything you need to know about US prepaid SIM cards, including the latest prices, where to buy, how to use them, choosing mobile operators, and tips for saving data. Keep reading for detailed advice to get connected in the US!
Table of Contents
I. Connectivity Options When Traveling to the US
So, how many ways to stay connected in the United States? Here are five options:
| Option | Pros | Cons | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Roaming | – No need to buy a new SIM card or switch out your existing one. – Instant connectivity upon arrival in the USA. | – Roaming charges can be significantly higher than local rates, leading to expensive bills. | – Short-term travelers have little need to use data, make local calls, or send texts. |
| Wi-Fi Hotspots | – Access to the internet in various public places. | – Limited coverage and security risks. | – Budget travelers. |
| Pocket Wi-Fi Rental | – Connect multiple devices simultaneously. | – Need to carry an additional device. | – Group travelers or those with many devices. |
| Local SIM Card | – Local phone number and data plan at an affordable cost. | – Need to remove the primary SIM card and insert the travel SIM card. – Requires an unlocked device. | – Travelers are staying for a moderate duration. |
| eSIM | – No physical SIM card is required. – Convenient activation. | – Requires eSIM support in an unlocked device. | – Travelers with eSIM-compatible devices. |
Based on the above table, we can draw the following conclusions:
- To ensure a seamless and dedicated internet connection, purchasing a SIM card or eSIM for your trip to the USA is advisable. This will allow you to stay connected without relying on others.
- If your device supports eSIM technology, opting for an eSIM is a favorable choice due to its convenience. It eliminates the need for a physical SIM card, streamlining the activation process and providing easy access to mobile services.
Learn more about selecting the best mobile internet option for your needs in the US. Browse this guide:
II. US SIM Card Types – Which One is the Best for Tourists?
1. Types of USA Tourist SIM
When traveling to the USA, staying connected is vital for a smooth and enjoyable trip. To cater to the needs of tourists, mobile operators in the USA offer two primary types of SIM cards: Physical SIM and eSIM.
| SIM card | eSIM | |
| Pros | – Wide range of devices supported – Local calling and texting are available | – Can buy online and receive it through email within minutes – No need to show a passport for registration (when you buy it online from eSIM providers like eSIMUSA.net) – Larger storage for multiple operator profiles – Not susceptible to physical damage or loss |
| Cons | – Need to visit stores or queue at the airport to buy. – Can buy online but have to wait for shipping. – Need to show a passport for registration. – Limited storage capacity. – Can get damaged or lost. | – Limited to eSIM-compatible devices – Local calling and texting may not be available (Most eSIM providers offer data-only plans) |
Considering these factors, you can decide which option best suits your needs during your trip to the USA.
If your device supports eSIM technology and you value the convenience of a virtual SIM, choosing an eSIM may be the ideal choice. It offers seamless activation and storage flexibility for multiple profiles.
However, if you have a non-eSIM-compatible device or prefer traditional methods, a physical SIM card will still provide reliable connectivity throughout your journey.
Note: Before deciding, remember to thoroughly research available eSIM and SIM card options, compare data packages, and consider your specific device compatibility. This way, you can ensure a seamless and connected experience during your trip to the USA.
III. How Much Data is Enough for a US Prepaid Tourist SIM Card?
Most tourists find that 2-8GB of data is adequate for a 1-2 week US trip when used mostly for maps, social media, web browsing and light video streaming.
Here are some data usage estimates for common travel activities:
- Google Maps navigation (1 hour/day): 300MB
- Social media scrolling (1-2 hours/day): 200MB
- Web browsing (2 hours/day): 300MB
- Music streaming (1-2 hours/day): 250MB
- Video streaming SD (1-2 hours/day): 1-2GB
- Video streaming HD (1-2 hours/day): 2-4GB
To be on the safe side, you may want to get a 5GB or 8GB plan and top up later if needed. Avoid choosing too little data and getting overage fees. Also beware of “unlimited” plans that slow speeds after just a few GB.
IV. How Much Does a US Prepaid SIM Card Cost?
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a prepaid SIM card in the US:
The Basics:
- Starter Packs: These usually cost between $20 to $50 and include a SIM card, a small amount of data, and some talk time.
- Top-Ups: You can add more data, talk time, or text messages to your SIM card with top-up vouchers, also known as refill cards. These are available at convenience stores, gas stations, and online. Prices vary depending on the amount of data you need.
Pricing for Data:
- Data Bundles: The US doesn’t offer standalone data packages. Instead, data is included as part of a monthly plan that also includes talk time and text messages.
- Cost Per GB: On average, data costs around $6 per GB. This makes the US one of the most expensive countries for mobile data.
- Unlimited Data Plans: Many prepaid providers offer unlimited data plans, but these can be expensive. You can expect to pay $50 or more per month for a plan with unlimited data.
Remember:
- Taxes: Prices advertised for prepaid SIM cards and top-ups are usually before taxes. You'll need to add sales tax, which can be up to 10%.
- Bring Your Own Device: If you bring your own unlocked phone, make sure it supports the US frequencies. You can find a list of compatible phones on the provider's websites such as Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T.
V. Esimusa.net – Alternative to US Prepaid SIM Cards
As an alternative to plastic SIM cards, some US providers offer eSIMs. An eSIM or embedded SIM is a digital-only SIM profile loaded to your phone.
esimusa.net is a recommended site for buying US eSIMs online. We partner with various US networks to offer prepaid eSIM data plans starting as low as $3.99.
Some benefits of using eSIMs for travel include:
- Remote provisioning – eSIMs can be loaded instantly
- Multi-SIM – Have US eSIM + regular SIM active simultaneously
- Easy switching – Change plans or operators via app
- No SIM trays – Convenient for devices without SIM slot
Plans that may interest you
VI. Where to Buy US Prepaid SIM Cards and eSIM for Tourists?
1. Where to Buy US Prepaid SIM Cards?
- Airports: Many airports in the USA, such as Miami International Airport, San Francisco Airport, Las Vegas Airport, Orlando Airport, etc., have stores that sell SIM cards for tourists. This option may be convenient if you want to get connected as soon as you arrive in the country.
Interested in buying SIM cards at US airports upon arrival? Check out our guide: SIM Card at US Major Airports: The Definitive Guide
- Mobile operator stores: Major mobile operators like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile have retail stores across the USA. You can visit their stores to purchase a prepaid SIM card. The advantage of buying from a mobile operator store is that you can get assistance from their staff in selecting the right plan and setting up your SIM card.
- Third-party retailers: Numerous retail stores and electronics shops across the country offer prepaid SIM cards. Places like Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and electronics stores often have these options. Buying from third-party retailers gives you the flexibility to compare different SIM card packages and prices from various providers.
- Mobile operator websites: Numerous mobile operators provide official websites where you can conveniently buy prepaid SIM cards online and have them delivered directly to your accommodation in the United States.
2. Where to Buy USA eSIM?
a. From eSIM provider – esimusa.net
As mentioned earlier, esimusa.net is a dedicated platform for purchasing and activating eSIM plans for travelers visiting the United States. This option offers convenience and flexibility, allowing you to activate your plan directly on your eSIM-compatible device.
b. Mobile Operator Websites
Some major US carriers, like T-Mobile and Verizon, can purchase and activate eSIM plans directly through their websites. This option provides the convenience of managing your eSIM activation online without the need to visit a physical store.
Are you planning to visit Hawaii soon, check our guide to get more useful tips How to buy a SIM card in Hawaii: Tips from Locals
VII. Best US Mobile Operators
When choosing a mobile operator for your US SIM card, consider factors such as coverage, price range, pros and cons, and eSIM availability. Here’s a comparison table to help you evaluate some of the leading mobile operators in the United States:
| Mobile Operator | Coverage | Price Range | Pros | Cons | eSIM Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T | Nationwide | $10 – $80 | Extensive coverage, international roaming options | Higher pricing, limited data speeds after threshold | Yes |
| Verizon | Nationwide | $15 – $80 | Reliable network, fast speeds | Premium pricing, limited budget options | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Nationwide | $10 – $70 | Affordable plans, unlimited data options | Coverage in rural areas may be limited | Yes |
If you want to learn more about these operators, please check out our article about Best mobile network providers in the USA.
VIII. How to Use US Prepaid SIM Cards and eSIM
Plan your US trip right with tips on using your cell phone here:
1. Using USA SIM Cards
Once you have purchased a USA SIM card, follow these steps to use it:
- Power off your phone and insert the SIM card into the designated slot.
- Power on your phone and wait for it to connect to the mobile network.
- If necessary, configure the APN settings provided by the SIM card provider.
- You can now make calls, send messages, and access the internet using your USA SIM card.
2. Setting up and activating USA eSIM
To use an eSIM in the USA, follow these instructions:
- Check if your smartphone supports eSIM functionality and ensure it is unlocked.
- Access the eSIM settings on your device and scan the QR code provided by the eSIM provider or manually enter the activation code.
- Follow the prompts to download and activate the eSIM profile.
- Once activated, you can switch between different eSIM profiles within your device settings and enjoy seamless connectivity.
IX. FAQs about US Prepaid SIM Cards
What are the major prepaid carriers in the US?
The three major national mobile networks that offer prepaid services are Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Some major MVNOs that operate on these networks include Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Metro by T-Mobile, Red Pocket, and TracFone.
Do prepaid plans include data?
Yes, prepaid plans in the US generally include an allowance of data along with voice minutes and text messages. Data-only plans without voice/text are very rare. Prepaid carriers offer a variety of plans with different data amounts and validity periods.
Can I use my non-US phone on a US prepaid network?
It depends on the phone. US networks mostly use different LTE frequencies than other countries, so international phones may not support all the bands needed for good coverage. iPhones generally work well, but for other brands you’ll need to check the supported bands. As an alternative, prepaid carriers sell basic “burner” phones that will work on their network.
Do prepaid plans have contracts?
No, prepaid plans are month-to-month without long-term contracts. You pay for your service upfront, such as with a 30-day prepaid SIM card. This provides flexibility but you don’t get the same discounts that postpaid contract plans offer.
Are there taxes and fees added to prepaid plans?
Yes, prepaid plans are subject to sales tax which can increase the total cost by up to 10% depending on your area. Some carriers also charge fees for SIM cards or activation. Be sure to budget for the full after-tax cost of maintaining your service.
X. Final Words
In conclusion, purchasing a US prepaid SIM card or eSIM is the best way to stay connected during your stay. Consider your data requirements, coverage needs, and budget when choosing the right option for you. Whether you opt for a traditional SIM card or the convenience of an eSIM, you can find reliable options from various mobile network operators and authorized sellers. Enjoy your trip to the USA with seamless communication and internet access!
