at&t tourist sim card usa

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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 June 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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6 Best SIM Cards for USA Travel in 2024

Home | Travel | 6 Best SIM Cards for USA Travel in 2024

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If you want to have data during your trip to the United States, I recommend getting an American SIM card . This way, you can keep in touch with loved ones, check email, and access convenient apps without paying hefty roaming fees.

Of course, there are several options available, from traditional SIM cards to USA eSIMs for tourists, and they’re all better than shelling out tons of money for international roaming. I’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of each option, so you can find the one that best suits your needs.

Before we jump in, I’ll tell you upfront that we use the eSIM cards from Holafly . These international SIM cards have unlimited data and are completely digital, so we can quickly and easily activate them before or during our trips. I’ll share more about this company below, but you can get a full rundown in our complete Holafly review .

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I also want to take a moment to remind you that getting travel insurance for the USA is a smart move, as healthcare in this country is outrageously expensive. We’ve been using Heymondo insurance for several years now, and they’ve always taken great care of us, even paying our medical expenses upfront. If you haven’t gotten insurance yet and this company sounds good to you, use our Heymondo discount code to save on your policy.

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Now, let’s dive into the best prepaid SIM cards for the U.S.

Do you need a SIM card for traveling to the USA?

You want reliable coverage in a large country like the United States, so getting an American SIM card is a good idea. This way, you can use Google Maps, make hotel reservations, book tours, and stay in touch with friends and family back home.

Of course, the main reason I recommend getting a SIM card for the USA is that it’ll save you lots of money on international roaming charges.

USA SIM card vs roaming in the USA

Roaming charges can add up, even after just a few minutes. Buying a SIM card for the USA is much cheaper than paying for roaming, so I highly recommend it.

That said, you must pay attention to the card you get since some include calls and SMS, while others are data-only. If you plan to message or video-call friends via apps like WhatsApp, consider getting a prepaid USA SIM with unlimited data , like the one from Holafly . This way, you can make as many video calls as you want without racking up roaming fees.

Even if you plan to use your phone sparingly, it’s easy to use up data, especially since some applications consume data in the background. You can avoid this by keeping your device turned off or switching to airplane mode.

At the end of the day, the easiest way to get data in the States and avoid exorbitant prices is by getting an Internet SIM card for the USA . It’ll end up saving you money and headaches in the long run.

How do USA SIM cards for tourists work?

While there are different American SIM cards on the market, they all work very similarly. Both the physical and digital cards allow you to use the Internet without racking up additional costs . This is all thanks to an agreement between U.S. telecommunications providers and international phone companies.

Be aware that some SIM cards for USA visitors don’t include calls or texts . However, you can get around this problem by using apps like Skype and WhatsApp to call your friends and family.

Now, if you’re getting a traditional travel SIM for America , you can use it just as you would normally use your at-home SIM card. That is, you simply insert it into your device. This is a breeze if your phone has a dual slot; if not, remove your regular SIM and keep it somewhere safe for the time being.

In the case of an eSIM , you’ll receive a QR code in your email when you purchase the digital card. You can scan this code off another device with a screen to install the configuration on your phone. Of course, you should check that your device is compatible with eSIM technology here first .

It also doesn’t hurt to check your phone’s compatibility with the physical SIM cards since some of them come from local telephone companies in the U.S.

USA SIM card price comparison

The chart below will give you a better idea of the different prices for USA SIM cards . In addition to prices, I included plan durations and amount of GB. This chart compares the USA eSIMs from Holafly, Airalo, and Knowroaming, and the physical cards from SimOptions, AT&T, and T-Mobile.

Despite being very well-known, Verizon isn’t part of this comparison since it uses CDMA technology, which isn’t compatible with most international devices . If you want to use Verizon, you’ll need to buy a new phone in the U.S.

*Price doesn’t include taxes and fees, which vary depending on the state where you buy the card

From this comparison, you’ll see that Holafly is the best overall option, offering unlimited data at an affordable price. I recommend it for short trips (less than 15 days) and long trips (more than a month). As for Airalo and Knowroaming , their USA eSIMs are pretty expensive for a limited amount of data.

For trips between 15 and 30 days, the local USA SIM cards from AT&T and T-Mobile offer competitive prices. However, if you don’t think you’ll need unlimited data, the 30-day SIM card from SimOptions is a good deal, offering 10 GB of high-speed data for $25. This should be enough for you to use Google Maps and WhatsApp and make simple Internet searches.

Don’t forget that you can take advantage of free Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers for things like video calls and checking email.

What is the best SIM card for a USA trip?

No matter where we’re traveling, we like to use the eSIMs from Holafly . They come at a great price and include unlimited data, making them great for short or long trips . In addition, you can buy this USA SIM card any time, and you’ll receive it immediately in your email, so it’s super convenient.

If your phone isn’t compatible with a USA eSIM , or you prefer a physical card, you can find some alternatives below.

1. Holafly eSIM , the best USA eSIM card with unlimited data

First, the Holafly card is the best eSIM for the USA since its digital format allows you to have mobile data without having to remove your usual SIM. You can buy it anywhere at any time, even if you’re in the middle of traveling. Once you make your purchase, you’ll receive a QR code in your email, so you can scan it to activate it and start using data.

While installing this virtual card is quick and easy, remember that you must print out the QR code or download it to another device with a screen so you can scan the configuration code .

As for the price of this USA SIM card , it’s cheaper than most of the physical cards. Below, you can see the different costs and durations, all of which include unlimited data.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that not all mobile phones are compatible with eSIMs , so you should check your device’s compatibility here . Also, as I mentioned in our Holafly eSIM review , this card doesn’t allow data sharing, so you and your travel companions must each have your own eSIM.

We’ve traveled to many countries all over the world, and we’ve always had great experiences with the Holafly cards, including in the U.S. In some areas, we’ve even had better coverage than with local USA SIMs , such as in Alaska. So, if you decide to go with this company, use our Holafly discount code to save money.

2. SimOptions SIM , the best physical SIM card for US travel

If the Holafly eSIM isn’t compatible with your phone or you prefer a physical card, I recommend SimOptions . Just make sure you order it before your trip since it takes up to three business days to arrive at your home .

You can buy this SIM card for America online here . Once you receive it, simply insert the card into your phone’s card slot . If you don’t have a dual-slot, you must remove your usual SIM and replace it with the SimOptions card. The company’s customer support team is available via chat, email, and phone should you run into any issues.

One of the main advantages of this prepaid U.S. SIM card is that it allows data sharing , so you can use more than one device at the same time. Of course, this can become a disadvantage since, unlike Holafly eSIMs, these cards come with limited data. So, the more devices connected to it, the quicker you’ll run out of data.

As I mentioned in our SimOptions review , the pricing for these cards is a bit odd since they don’t always correspond to the duration or amount of data . Different SimOptions plans partner with different local providers, so you’ll notice the inconsistent pricing in the table above. Because of this, I recommend getting the 30-day plan, as the price per GB is much lower.

3. Airalo eSIM , another cheap eSIM for traveling to the USA

Another USA eSIM that you can consider is the one from Airalo . Like Holafly, this company only offers digital cards, so you’ll have to make sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology.

Airalo has some of the cheapest U.S. SIM cards on the market, with plan durations of 7, 15, or 30 days. However, the plans have limited data, and the amounts are quite low, which explains the cheap prices.

Another thing to consider is that the eSIMs from Airalo are data-only, so if you plan to use an app like Skype to make calls, you’ll end up running out of data rather quickly. Then, you’ll have to buy another eSIM, which will end up costing you more. This is why I prefer paying a bit more upfront for the Holafly card, which offers unlimited data.

To be fair, Airalo has its advantages, namely the fact that it allows data sharing , so you can enjoy data on multiple devices. Just keep in mind that this means you’ll use up your data sooner, so I recommend doing the math before you decide to purchase.

4. Knowroaming eSIM , another SIM card for US visitors

Knowroaming is another option if you’re looking to avoid international roaming with an American SIM card . However, be aware that all of the eSIMs from this company have limited data , and in some cases, the price per GB is quite high compared to other options.

Although this company has prepaid SIM cards for the United States , it doesn’t have cards for all countries, so depending on where else you’re going, it’s not the most convenient choice. While Holafly and SimOptions offer global SIM cards, Knowroaming does not, so you could end up spending more money if you choose this company.

Taking these features into account, I think you’re better off going with Holafly , SimOptions , or even Airalo instead.

5. AT&T SIM card, another prepaid SIM card in the USA for tourists

Yet another option is buying a local USA SIM card , such as the one from AT&T. AT&T is one of the major telecommunications companies in the U.S., offering excellent coverage, even in rural areas.

The company’s SIM card for the USA is available at official AT&T stores and authorized retailers at various supermarkets. You may also find these SIM cards at airport kiosks. This card only has 30-day plans with either 5GB, 15GB, or unlimited data. The prices range from $30 to $50, but they don’t take into account taxes and fees. Plus, the USA SIM card itself costs around $10.

Also, since you have to buy this card in person, you’ll spend a lot of time shopping around and setting up your device . Therefore, I don’t recommend it for short trips to the U.S. It’s better to maximize your time and set up a SIM card before your trip with Holafly or SimOptions . Either of those companies is a better choice, both in terms of cost-effectiveness and amount of data.

*The price does not include taxes and fees, which will vary depending on the state in which you purchase the card

I will say that since the AT&T SIM card isn’t designed specifically for tourists, it can be useful for people who are planning to take multiple trips to the U.S. in the future. You can save the card, bring it with you for your next trip, and purchase the data plan that suits your needs . Just don’t sign up for a permanent contract.

Like other physical cards, the AT&T SIM is easy to install, especially if you have a dual-slot on your phone. After inserting it, make a test call with the number that appears on the card, and you’re all set.

6. T-Mobile SIM card , a prepaid USA SIM card with unlimited data plans

Finally, you can also consider T-Mobile’s prepaid SIM card for the U.S. As one of the top mobile providers in the country, T-Mobile boasts a strong 5G network and quick speeds throughout the United States.

Since it’s a prepaid card, you can buy it without signing up for a data plan, then use the My T-Mobile app or website to add data later or top-up the card. Just keep in mind that each recharge expires after 30 days.

As with the AT&T cards, the T-Mobile SIMs are available at physical stores and official points of sale (supermarkets, airport kiosks). Make sure that when you buy this USA SIM card , you don’t sign up for a permanent contract, as that’s only designed for residents.

In terms of data plans, there are two options, both with 30-day durations. The first comes with 10GB of data and costs $40, while the second has unlimited data and costs $50. For the card itself, expect to pay around $10. I think the unlimited plan is a better deal, specifically for trips between two and four weeks. Otherwise, I would go with Holafly or, for a physical card, SimOptions .

Once you purchase this American SIM card , you can insert it into your device and go to the T-Mobile website to activate it by entering the IMEI of your phone and the SIM card . I recommend doing this at the store so you can ask an associate for help. And, of course, make sure your device is compatible with the SIM card .

Where to buy a prepaid SIM card for traveling to the USA

You can buy a SIM card in the USA after you arrive, or you can purchase the card ahead of time in your home country. Personally, I prefer having everything prepared before my trip. In my case, I get the Holafly eSIM, so I can start using data as soon as I land.

Don’t worry if you haven’t planned ahead and you’re already in the United States. I’ll tell you how to buy a USA SIM card from one of the authorized retailers in the country.

Buy in your home country

First, you can buy an English SIM card before you leave for your trip. In this case, the best option is the Holafly eSIM , which arrives in your email. All you have to do is scan the QR code to start using data.

If your device isn’t compatible with the Holafly eSIM, or you prefer a physical card, I recommend using SimOptions . This company delivers to almost every country, so you can buy a prepaid USA SIM card online and have it delivered to your home. Just make sure to do this in advance since it takes up to 3 business days for the card to arrive by mail.

Buy a prepaid SIM card in the USA

If you’re already traveling and haven’t gotten a SIM card for America yet, you have a couple of options. First, you can buy the Holafly eSIM and get the QR code sent to your email. The second option is to go to a physical store to buy a local USA SIM card from AT&T or T-Mobile.

Getting the Holafly eSIM is by far the most convenient option, and it’s the best choice for short trips (less than 2 weeks) or longer stays (more than 4 weeks). Of course, you should make sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology.

For trips between 2-4 weeks, consider getting a prepaid U.S. SIM card from AT&T or T-Mobile .

How to activate your American SIM card

It’s super easy to activate an American SIM card . For digital cards like the Knowroaming, Airalo, and Holafly eSIM, you just scan the QR code to download the configuration. I recommend printing out the code or downloading it on another device with a screen so you can scan it on your phone. From there, the activation itself is straightforward.

When it comes to international eSIMs , Holafly is my preferred choice since they have a great quality-to-price ratio. They have a 24-hour live chat that you can use if you run into any issues, or you can send them an email at [email protected] . Their USA SIM card has unlimited data , but if you’d like more information, check out our guide on Holafly cards .

If your device isn’t compatible with eSIM technology or you prefer a physical SIM card for the USA , I recommend SimOptions . With this card, you can insert it into your phone’s SIM slot, and if you have a dual-slot, you don’t even have to remove your regular SIM. SimOptions offers customer support via chat, email, and phone.

As for the AT&T card , you must activate it by making a test call with the number that appears on the card , while the T-Mobile card is activated through the website . If you have any problems, go to the store where you bought it so a sales associate can help.

Requirements for using a USA SIM card for travelers

To use a mobile SIM card for the USA , your phone must be compatible with the card itself. You can check your device’s compatibility with the Holafly eSIM here . If you’re interested in the SimOptions card, you can go here to check.

No matter which card you choose, your phone must be unlocked and compatible with the United States’ network frequency . Otherwise, you won’t be able to use any U.S. tourist SIM .

Also, if you’re planning to buy a card in the U.S. from an AT&T or T-Mobile store, I recommend double-checking your device’s compatibility. You can ask a store associate to help you with this.

Tips for using a prepaid SIM card in the U.S.

If you’re still a little lost or unsure about which is the best USA data SIM card for you, here are some helpful tips:

• Consider what you’ll need your mobile device for during your trip. This way, you can determine whether or not you need a USA SIM with unlimited data .
• If you’re going with a USA mobile SIM with limited data , calculate the price per GB to find the cheapest deal.
• Take advantage of the Wi-Fi in your hotel and at restaurants or shopping centers , especially if your card has limited data. Accessing free Wi-Fi is a good way to complete tasks that use a lot of data.
• If your device is compatible with virtual SIM cards, I highly recommend getting a USA eSIM . You can buy it anywhere, anytime, even if you’re already traveling.
• Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the USA’s network frequency.
• If you plan to be in the U.S. for a while, get a local USA SIM card and recharge it monthly. This will be much cheaper for you.

Getting a mobile SIM for the USA is just one part of planning a trip , so check out our guide for more tips and advice.

Alternatives to a USA SIM card for tourists

If you’re still not sure whether you want to get a SIM card for a USA trip , there are other ways to have travel Internet . Below, I’ll share some alternative options that let you have Internet in the United States .

Portable Wi-Fi device

A portable Wi-Fi router is a handy way to get stable Internet while traveling. It’s especially useful if you need to work remotely, as you can connect several devices simultaneously.

These gadgets are small and lightweight, so you can easily stow them in your bag, backpack, or even your pocket. However, keep in mind that these routers require a SIM card or a data plan subscription to work.

We’ve been using the Solis router for a while now, and we’re very satisfied with it. For this portable Wi-Fi router, you don’t need a SIM card , but you must purchase a data plan through its website . There are several types of plans, so you can choose the one that best suits you, even paying per GB, if you want. The Solis router is super easy to use and provides coverage in over 130 countries.

Of course, there are other portable Wi-Fi devices , so you can check our guide for more recommendations.

Public Wi-Fi network

Another alternative to an American travel SIM – and the cheapest option – is to use a public Wi-Fi network . You can typically get free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and some transportation centers.

However, these types of connections tend to be unstable and slow since a large number of people are using them at one time. There are also security and privacy concerns with using a public Internet connection.

Also, remember that you’ll only have Wi-Fi in that particular location, so as soon as you leave, you’ll disconnect from the network. I only suggest this option if you’re using your phone in the hotel or at a restaurant for simple things like checking email. Otherwise, you’re better off buying a USA SIM card .

Pay for roaming

Finally, there is always the option of roaming , but it’s super expensive, so I don’t recommend it . To give you a rough idea, you could pay €6 per day roaming with Vodafone or €8 per day with O2.

Roaming rates vary by provider, but they’re usually very expensive, with very little data, so it’s not worth it. It’s much more cost-effective to get a prepaid SIM card for the U.S. rather than face a huge bill when you return home.

FAQs about prepaid SIM cards USA for tourists

That just about wraps up this guide to American SIM cards , but I’ll leave you with the answers to some common questions below:

Can I use my regular SIM card in the United States?

While you can use your regular SIM in the USA, you’ll have to pay for roaming. This service is much more expensive than the American SIM cards I recommended, so you’re better off buying one of those.

Where can I buy a SIM card in the United States?

You can buy a SIM card in the USA at AT&T and T-Mobile stores. Another option is to buy a SimOptions card online before your trip. The Holafly eSIM can be bought from anywhere since it’s entirely digital.

Is it better to buy a SIM card for the U.S. at home or once I reach the USA?

In my experience, it’s better to buy a SIM card before your trip so it’s ready to go once you arrive at your destination.

Are all U.S. SIM cards compatible with my device?

No, not all English SIM cards may be compatible with your phone, so be sure to check beforehand.

How can I know if the U.S. SIM card is compatible with my mobile phone?

For the SimOptions card and the eSIMs from Holafly , Airalo , and Knowroaming , you can check your phone’s compatibility on the company websites. If you’re getting a card from AT&T or T-Mobile, you’ll have to go to the physical store to check.

How do I activate my SIM card in the United States?

USA eSIMs are activated by scanning a QR code. Physical cards can be inserted into your device. Depending on the company, you can follow the on-screen instructions, make a test call, or activate through the website.

Are there U.S. SIM cards for tourists with unlimited data?

Yes, some USA SIMs have unlimited data , such as the Holafly eSIM.

Can I make international calls from the USA with a traveler SIM card?

American SIM cards typically only include mobile data. If you want to make a call, you can do so through an app like Skype or WhatsApp.

What do I do if I lose my travel SIM card for the United States?

If you lose your SIM card, contact the company you bought it from so they can deactivate it.

What do I do if the U.S. SIM card doesn’t work?

If you bought the card from Holafly, SimOptions, Airalo, or Knowroaming, contact customer support via chat, email, or phone. If you got the card from AT&T or T-Mobile, you must go to a physical store so they can tell you what to do.

Do I need an unlocked phone to use a prepaid SIM card in the USA?

Yes, in order to work, USA SIM cards require you to have an unlocked phone.

Can I use my prepaid USA SIM card with multiple devices?

It depends. Some cards allow data sharing, but they come with limited data.

How can I check the coverage for a specific prepaid SIM card in the areas I’ll be visiting?

You can check the coverage of a prepaid USA SIM card by going to the provider’s website.

Can I recharge my prepaid SIM card if I run out of data while traveling in the USA?

Some cards, like the ones from AT&T and T-Mobile, let you recharge or top-up the card.

Can I use my phone number from my home country when using a prepaid SIM card in the USA?

Yes, as long as you don’t remove or deactivate your main SIM card.

How much does a USA tourist SIM card cost?

The price of a USA SIM card varies, but you can find some for around $3/day.

That’s it for this guide to the best American SIM cards .

If you have any other questions or concerns about getting a U.S. SIM card , leave a comment below. I’d also love to hear about your experience using these cards.

Stay safe, and have a great trip to the USA!

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Buying a Prepaid Sim Card for the USA in 2024

Avoid high roaming costs and stay connected when traveling to the USA! It sounds easier than it actually is as the prepaid sim card market in the USA is not as advanced as in Europe, Asia or in other parts of the world. But don’t worry, it isn’t that complicated either, rather just expensive.

Buying a prepaid sim card or ordering an e-sim card for the USA is the best way to get data on your phone when traveling to the USA. This is a complete guide with everything you need to know: where to buy a USA sim card, up to date prices as per June 2024, the best 4G/5G network in the USA, my recommendation, a vlog with my experiences buying a sim card in the USA, the best e-sim cards for the USA, info about international sim cards for the USA and more.

Don’t expect to have a lot of options! In world’s most famous country there are only 3 mobile internet providers that sell prepaid sim cards for tourists.

Very much recommended are  international sim cards that cover the USA , more about that later. But the cheapest and easiest way to stay connected when traveling to the United States is an e-sim card for the USA, more about e-sims later.

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

As a full time nomadic world traveler for more than 10 years  who is also trying to visit every country in the world  and visited more than 155 countries as of June 2024 I can tell you that buying a local prepaid sim card in the country you are visiting is often the cheapest way to get a lot of data on your phone. The network coverage will be the best, the data speed maximum and locals calls are included and often unlimited.

However, that said when traveling to the USA in 2024 definitely check out e-sim cards as for less than $15 USD you already get 10 GB data. The last 3 times I visited the USA I used an e-sim card.

Since I like to document all my travel tips you can already find more than 200 sim card guides on Traveltomtom from all around the world: Canada , Mexico , Italy , Germany , France , Spain , United Kingdom ,  Israel , Hong Kong , Malaysia ,  Turkey , Thailand , Vietnam , Panama , South Africa , Europe , Saudi Arabia ,  Dominican Republic , Brazil , Colombia , Bali , Singapore , Dubai  and many more.

So next time you are planning your trip abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and e-sim card advice for your next destination. Bookmark me! 

Prepaid sim card prices in the USA are NOT competitive, for cheaper USA sim card deals check out international prepaid sim cards with data or e-sims card for the USA to stay connected when traveling in the USA in 2024.

Some links in this article about the best ways to stay connected when traveling to the USA are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using an affiliate link in this article I earn a small commission. This is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends a T-Mobile sim card for the USA if buying a prepaid sim card on arrival in the USA. T-Mobile has a very extensive 5G network all over the USA and for $50 USD you get unlimited data for 30 days, it is cheaper than AT&T and Verizon.

However, my recommendation is to order a sim card for traveling in the USA on the internet, not on arrival in the USA. The best USA sim card deals for tourists in 2024 can be found online. Why? It is simply easier and cheaper!

Unfortunately buying a prepaid sim card at any international airport in the USA is pretty much a disaster. Some airports don't even have sim card shops like at JFK Airport in New York or you can only find extremely overpriced sim card in a vending machine. Or what about a $82 USD sim card with 15 GB data at LAX?

you may also like...

Check out my guides for buying a sim card at Los Angeles , Newark , Miami and New York JFK .

So what does Traveltomtom recommends? The best, cheapest and easiest way to get a sim card with data for traveling to the USA in 2024 is an e-sim card. You can already get a USA e-sim card with 10 GB data for less than $25 USD.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for the USA via either  SimOptions  or  Airalo .

There are also  international physical prepaid sim cards with global network coverage  for those that don't have an e-sim compatible phone. In the link you will find a review and comparison of the best international sim cards for traveling in 2024. You order one online before your trip to the US and get them delivered to your home address. Plug and Play!

Make sure your phone is unlocked, before buying a sim card for the USA. International, e-sim cards and local prepaid sim cards for the USA only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is locked/unlocked ask your provider in your home country before your trip to the USA.

Best e-sim cards for the USA

The most convenient and easiest way to stay connected when traveling to the USA in 2024 is an e-sim card. You can easily order them online within just a couple clicks.

You order an e-sim card for the USA on the internet, you receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and within less than 2 minutes you have a USA e-sim card installed on your phone.

Upon arrival in the US it automatically connects you to an available network and you enjoy data on your phone pretty much when the plane lands.

Make sure your phone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card for USA. For a much more detailed guide and an answer to all FAQ's about using e-sim cards check out my guide with everything you need to know before ordering an e-sim card for the USA in 2024 .

Airalo is a reputed and trusted e-sim provider and Traveltomtom has used Airalo in more than 50 countries around the world. Check out the Airalo e-sim card deals for the USA in 2024:

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

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

The above Change e-sim cards are valid only in the USA and they operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of Verizon and T-Mobile. Yes, the Airalo e-sim cards for the USA supports 5G.

These e-sims are provided by Airalo and are the only 5G ready e-sim cards for the USA available and therefore also Traveltomtom's pick and recommended e-sim card for traveling to USA.

SimOptions is another e-sim card provider that sells USA e-sim cards. Traveltomtom has been using SimOptions e-sims and physical sim cards for more than 5 years.

They offer international e-sim cards for the USA that are valid in multiple countries:

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

The Three HK international e-sim cards are valid in 6 countries: New Zealand, Australia, Hong Kong, Canada, United Kingdom and USA. These are the only USA e-sim cards that come with a phone number and technically they support incoming phone calls and sms.

SimOptions also has the following e-sim cards for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 30 days = $4.50 USD
• 6 GB data for 10 days = $17.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 15 days = $19.90 USD 

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card for the USA via SimOptions .

Nomad is another great e-sim card provider and they actually have the best USA e-sim card deal. 

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $6 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $14 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $18 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD

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

The Nomad e-sim with 20 GB data for $28 USD is only $1.4 USD per Gigabyte. Which makes a Nomad e-sim card one of the cheapest e-sim cards for the USA.

However, lately Traveltomtom has had some concerning issues with Nomad and experienced some unfortunate errors and had I had to wait for about 24 hours to finally get connected. Very frustrating! Nomad definitely has things to improve when it comes to reliability and costumer service and is therefore not Traveltomtom's first pick.

Not Traveltomtom's favorite e-sims but Nomad also has daily e-sim plans with a set amount of GB per 24 hours. Traveltomtom does in general NOT recommend e-sim cards with unlimited data and an FUP.

There are more USA e-sim card providers like Holafly, Jetpac and many others. For more tips and tricks and info about USA e-sim cards click on the link to read my complete guide for buying an e-sim card for the USA in 2024 , including a comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to the USA.

Why buying a sim card in the USA

WiFi is everywhere these days, but when traveling in the USA, I am sure you want to be connected on the road as well and not only in your hotel room. Think about ordering a taxi through an app, finding nearby recommended restaurants, using Google Maps for directions and simply staying in touch or for checking social media apps and emails, being connected to your bank apps, etc.

Being connected the internet makes traveling so much easier and also safer! Don't get stuck somewhere because you don't have a data connection on your phone.

Buying a sim card for the USA is easy, it takes just a couple minutes and you are connected straight away, it is like plug and play. If you buy a sim card in a store in the USA you put it in your phone and it instantly works. However, you have to make sure your phone is unlocked if you want to use a prepaid sim card or an e-sim card abroad.

Also don't rely on public WiFi. There is never a guarantee and internet speed varies often. Also keep in mind that surfing the web on public WiFi is through an UNSECURED connection. The use of a VPN is recommended in these cases.

Where to buy a USA sim card

International airport on arrival.

Unlike any other country around the world it is NOT easy to find sim card shops or resellers at international arrivals in most of the airports in the USA. I still can't get my head around this! Like for real America? At Houston Airport the guy from the information desk was like, uh what... a prepaid sim card?

That said, I am determined to continue writing sim card guides for USA airports and already started with the Big Apple. Flying to New York? Check out my guides for buying a sim card at New York JFK Airport or buying a sim card at Newark Airport in New Jersey . The newest addition is my guide for buying a sim card at Miami Airport  and my Los Angeles Airport sim card guide .

I have written uncountable sim card guides for international airports: Paris , London , Rome , Amsterdam , Barcelona , Madrid , Dublin , Johannesburg , Dubai , Riyadh , Tel Aviv , Istanbul , Cairo , Panama City ,  Bangkok , Bali , etc. At every international airport worldwide you will find sim card shops next to car rental companies and money exchangers, unfortunately not in the USA!

In the last years I landed in Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas/Forth Worth, New York JFK, Newark, Miami and there are literally no sim card shops or phone stores. Even more reasons for you to order a sim card for traveling to the USA on the internet.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering e-sim cards via  Airalo  or  SimOptions  directly on the internet. They sell e-sims as well as physical prepaid sim cards for the USA.

Official retail stores

The best place to buy a prepaid sim card for the USA is at an official retail store. The staff will give you the best advice on your needs and everything will be set up quickly and within just a couple minutes. You will walk out of the store with a working data connection on your phone. But I will later show you the prepaid sim card prices and you will see that e-sim cards are much cheaper.

Best way to find the nearest phone shop is to go to Google Maps and type in for example: t-mobile. Google Maps suggest: 'T-Mobile (see locations)'. Click on it and find the nearest store. The bigger shopping malls in big cities mostly all have mobile phone provider stores.

Convenience stores

Yes, it is possible to buy USA tourist sim cards at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, CVS and of course at Walmart. They are mostly located behind the counter and gathering information about the data packages is a little challenging. Don’t expect the staff to know exactly what these tourist sim cards are about. It is not Traveltomtoms first recommendation to buy a sim card in the USA at a convenience or grocery store.

If you want to get connected and are in a hurry this is an option. You have to active these sim cards yourself by uploading your passport to the mentioned website on the sim card package.

Train stations

In the bigger cities like New York, Chicago, San Fransisco you can sometimes find sim card kiosks at the bigger train stations, like the above photo from Penn Station in New York. These sim card shops are resellers of MVNO sim cards. MVNO stands for Mobile Virtual Network Operator, a well known example is Lycamobile.

A Lycamobile sim card operates on the T-Mobile network in the USA and they sell the above data plans and packages including unlimited calls/text. These tourist sim cards are not cheap either and 7 GB data will already cost you $29 USD + tax.

Keep in mind that there are already e-sim cards for the USA with 20 GB data for just $15 USD.

As mentioned before an e-sim card is the cheapest but also the easiest way to get data on your phone when traveling to the USA and Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for the USA via SimOptions, Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad, Airalo or one of the other reliable e-sim providers.

The downside of the sim cards for the USA you order online is that they are data-only. Sim cards you buy in a store in the USA including data, text and talk.

For more info check out Traveltomtom's comparison of the best e-sims for the USA .

If your phone is not e-sim compatible you can also order physical prepaid sim cards on the internet via SimOptions. Check out my article about the best international sim cards for travelers in 2024 , it has some really good alternatives and you can order directly online.

Mobile internet operators in the USA

In a country with more than 300 million people it is almost unimaginable that there are only 3 main mobile internet operators:

On top of that there are many MVNO's in the USA, so called Mobile Virtual Network Operators. What they basically do is use the network of one of the above main internet providers to offer their mobile services. Well known MVNO's in the USA are Sprint, Mint Mobile, Lycamobile and Boost. You can buy their sim cards in shops like Walmart, etc.

Verizon did not use to sell prepaid sim cards for tourists for many years, but the tables have turned and also Verizon now offers prepaid plans for tourists that can be bought in their Verizon stores.

Registration process

The registration process for prepaid sim cards in the USA is very standard. When buying a sim card you will need to bring your passport. In the store a copy of your passport or a photo will be taken and will be attached to your registration. Your new US sim card and number will be registered on your name and passport number.

To avoid this you can order a physical prepaid USA sim card online and get one delivered to your home address before your trip or order an e-sim card for the USA . For these sim cards there is no form of ID verification needed, only your email address.

Prices prepaid sim cards USA in 2024

Prices below are in United States Dollar and info and prices are updated as per June 2024. E-sim cards are available for an extra fee, but only in the official stores of T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon. You can not buy an e-sim card on the international airports in the USA on arrival.

T-Mobile USA

Officially T-Mobile USA charges a $10 USD activation fee for a prepaid sim card for tourists in stores around the USA, but in most cases this activation fee is waived if you buy one of the above prepaid sim card plans. Ask for it in store!

T-Mobile offers 3 different prepaid sim card packages, see the above photo. All of the prepaid sim card deals come with UNLIMITED CALLING & TEXTING in the USA, the use of max data speed at 5G network and are valid for 1 month.

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

The data is only for use in the USA, you pay $5 USD extra for max 5 GB data to use in Canada and/or Mexico . But when you travel to Mexico or Canada Traveltomtom recommends  buying a sim card for Mexico  and/or buying a sim card for Canada .

Also if you want an e-sim instead of a physical prepaid sim card that is no problem, just ask for it in the T-Mobile store.

T-Mobile offers e-sim cards for tourists in their T-Mobile stores for an extra fee of $4.99 USD. So if you want to have a T-Mobile e-sim card with unlimited data for the USA that will cost you a minimum of $55 USD and if you are unlucky they will also charge you the activation fee of $10 USD.

These are the latest T-Mobile prepaid sim card deals as per June 2024, for more info check the T-Mobile USA website .

AT&T USA

The activation fee for an AT&T USA prepaid sim is officially $15 USD, but also waived when in most cases when buying one of the above prepaid sim card plans. AT&T offers 2 prepaid USA sim card plans for tourists, don't get fooled by the sim card deals above. The first column is only if you pay for 12 months in advance, so not an option for tourists.

AT&T also has e-sim cards for tourists available but they charge an extra fee of $4.99 USD.

Both prepaid sim card deals include unlimited calls/sms in the USA, max data speed on 5G and are valid for 1 month:

• Unlimited data at max 3 Mbps* (not 5G ready) = $50 USD
• Unlimited calls/sms and data = $65 USD

*First 30 GB per month on 3 Mbps then reduced data speed to 1.5 Mbps.

WOW! This is very basic data speed. Have you ever checked you home internet data speed? That is probably somewhere 50 - 100 Mbps or nowadays even up to 500 Mbps.

So AT&T offering a prepaid sim card with max 3 Mbps data speed is a JOKE!

Also be aware that the big advertising prices above are with AUTOPAY, basically auto renewal. Tourists do NOT want that so they pay more.

The $50 USD deal is only $50 USD if you renew automatically every month, so for tourists not applicable and without autopay is $65 USD.

Also it says unlimited calling, text and data in Mexico and Canada, but not on 5G speed. So there is another catch! 

These are the latest AT&T prepaid sim card deals as per June 2024, check the  AT&T USA website  for more info. But as you can sense Traveltomtom is NOT a fan of AT&T prepaid sim cards. There are so many restrictions on these prepaid sim card deals.

When traveling to Canada and Mexico you might want to check Traveltomtom's article about  buying an international sim card for North America .

Verizon charges a staggering $35 USD activation fee for its prepaid sim cards, so therefore already Traveltomtom does not recommend buying a prepaid sim card in a Verizon store in the USA. However, on the Unlimited plans they wave away the activation fee.

All the prepaid plans from Verizon are valid for 1 month and are 5G ready. They also include unlimited calling and teting:

• 15 GB data = $45 USD
• Unlimited data + 5 GB data for hotspot = $60 USD
• Unlimited data + 25 GB data for hotspot = $70 USD

For more info check the Verizon website . Verizon offers physical prepaid sim cards as well as e-sim cards for tourists.

When we look at the comparison of the USA prepaid sim cards the conclusion is simple:  AT&T and Verizon are more expensive than T-Mobile. So b ased on the price I am definitely recommending a T-Mobile USA sim card over an AT&T or Verizon sim card.

Best 4G/5G network in the USA in 2024

Whether you are traveling to the USA as a tourist or for business the chances of not having a phone signal are very small. The network in the USA is countrywide pretty good and yes there is of course 5G in the United States. Prepaid sim cards that you buy in the USA support 5G, international sim cards and e-sim cards for the USA do not always support 5G.

An exception are the Airalo e-sim cards for the USA , these e-sims are 5G ready as well as the Nomad USA e-sims nowadays.

Let's compare the 4G/5G network of T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T and find the best mobile data network in the USA in 2024.

AT&T 4G/5G network coverage map

T-Mobile 4G/5G network coverage map

Verizon 4G/5G network coverage map

Although the above mobile data network coverage maps are updated for 2024 they are not 100% accurate. However, they are a great reference to compare the 4G/5G networks of the mobile internet providers in the USA in 2024.

All the main mobile internet providers in the USA have an excellent 4G/5G mobile data network across the country and cover pretty much every tourist destination in the USA.

From the above USA mobile network coverage maps  we can clearly see 2 things:

• AT&T and Verizon have better coverage in remote areas
• T-Mobile has the best 5G network

Click here for the official network coverage of T-Mobile and AT&T , according to their websites if you want more info.

After comparing the mobile data network coverage maps of Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile Traveltomtom comes to the conclusion that all in all Verizon has the best mobile data network in the USA in 2024.

What is the best prepaid sim card for the USA in 2024

When comparing all the prepaid sim cards for the USA we can come to the very simple conclusion that T-Mobile is the best prepaid sim card in the USA in 2024. They offer the best prepaid sim card deals for tourists and also have the best 5G network in the country.

If we leave the activation fee out of the comparison and you want a 5G ready prepaid sim card with unlimited data for 1 month you pay the following in stores in the USA:

• Verizon: $70 USD
• AT&T: $65 USD
• T-Mobile: $50 USD

I also showed you the prices for e-sims and for $26 USD you get an  Airalo e-sim cards for the USA  with 10 GB data.

Therefore, Traveltomtom's conclusion that ordering a sim card on the internet is cheaper than buying a prepaid sim card in the USA on arrival.

E-sim cards are the cheapest way to get a lot of data on your phone and you can arrange everything online within just a couple minutes. Keep in mind that e-sim cards are data only sim cards and calls are NOT supported.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for the USA via either  SimOptions  or  Airalo . But check out Traveltomtom's guide with a  comparison of the best e-sim cards for the USA in 2024  for more info about USA e-sim cards and also USA e-sims from Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad and others e-sim providers.

If you want a sim card that also includes calling time and sms then you have to buy a prepaid sim card on arrival in the USA.

In that case Traveltomtom recommends a 5G ready sim card with unlimited data from T-Mobile. You might have to pay $10 activation fee but for $50 USD + taxes, you are sorted for the rest of your trip! If you want an e-sim card instead of a physical prepaid sim card then add another $5 USD. You can only buy this sim card in a T-Mobile store in the USA. This sim card is valid for 1 month.

When I took a road trip from Las Vegas to New York and I bought a T-Mobile sim card in Las Vegas and traveled around the US for about 3 weeks. I never had a problem connecting and the T-Mobile 5G network experience was amazingly FAST! Even in some of the National Parks that I visited there was either a 5G or 4G/LTE signal: Zion in Utah, Grand Canyon in Arizona, Shenandoah in Virginia, everywhere I had an excellent signal throughout my journey with a T-Mobile sim card.

However, on my recent trip to the USA I ordered an e-sim card for the USA on the internet. It was a short trip and I only needed 5 GB data anyway. E-sims are simply so easy and convenient to order and use.

At Times Square New York you will find a T-Mobile store, a AT&T store and a Verizon store within 300 meter from each other. You can walk in, buy a prepaid sim card and you are connected within 5 minutes, but yeah it will cost some time and energy to get connected if you decide to buy a prepaid sim card in the USA rather than order a sim card for the USA on the internet.

If that sounds like too much hassle then order an e-sim card for the USA. Another reminder that e-sim cards for the USA are actually CHEAPER! Through Airalo you can find e-sim cards with 3 GB data for just $11 USD. SimOptions offers a USA e-sim card plan with 10 GB for $24.90 USD and then there is also Holafly, Nomad, Jetpac and other e-sim providers.

Or if you want a physical sim card then check out my article about the best prepaid global sim cards in 2024  including free roaming in the USA.

Buy a physical prepaid sim card for the USA online

You can only buy the above mentioned USA prepaid sim cards from T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T on arrival in the USA. But if you rather arrive prepared you can order a sim card on the internet. If your phone is not e-sim compatible then look into the following.

Arrive prepared in USA with an international prepaid sim card. You order them online and a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address. You put this sim card in your phone and it automatically connects to an available network upon arrival in the US, basically when the plane lands you are instantly online.

SimOptions is the only sim card provider that sells physical prepaid sim cards for the United States:

1. Three Data Pack - $24.90

• Valid 30 days
• Valid in 55 countries
• Incoming/outgoing calls not supported

2.  Orange Holiday World - $49.90

• Valid 14 days
• Valid in 197 countries

Click here for more info or to  order an international physical prepaid sim card for the USA via SimOptions .

Comparing the above international prepaid sim cards for the USA then personally I would recommend the sim card with 10 GB data for $24.90 USD. But you have seen that e-sim cards were cheaper.

However, buying a sim card for the USA on the internet is even cheaper than buying a sim card on arrival in the USA. Plus you save the hassle of going to a mobile phone shop when arriving in the USA. Especially since buying sim cards at airport in the USA is a nightmare.

By now you know that Traveltomtom recommends e-sim cards for traveling to the United States for those who have e-sim card compatible phones. You can buy them through  Airalo ,  SimOptions , Holafly, Nomad, Jetpac and many more e-sim providers go to my guide for finding the best e-sim cards for traveling to the USA in 2024  and check out my comparison.

On my recent trip to the USA I also recorded a vlog about buying a prepaid sim card in the USA, check it out below.

Here are some more North America sim cards for traveling to the USA. Sim cards for Canada and sim cards for Mexico also work in the USA.

As said before I DO NOT RECOMMEND global sim cards, but check out my article to find the best international sim cards for traveling the world . Even some of the best Europe sim cards have free roaming in the USA included. Check them out in the link above.

Order your USA sim card online before your trip, get it delivered to your home address… Switch the sim card in the plane and enjoy a data connection as soon as you land!

If you have any more questions please leave me a comment below, Im happy to help.Looking for some serious wanderlust inspiration than head to my Instagram @traveltomtom and follow along my journey to visit every country in the world . As per June 2024 I have been to more than 155 countries, so still a long way to go.

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

Enjoy your trip to the USA!

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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.

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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 .

• Recent Posts

• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - June 6, 2024
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024

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Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

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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, how to choose.

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 How to choose

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 loved ones back home. Unfortunately, finding the right SIM card provider for your needs can feel a bit overwhelming. Fear not, good people: we've simplified the process by gathering all of the best prepaid SIM cards for travelers into one simple guide. 

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. 

Patrick is an experienced deal hunter with a particular interest in helping people save money on their phone bills. Whether you're switching to an affordable MVNO or upgrading to one of the Big Three, utilizing Patrick's years of experience in the eCommerce space can help you cut through the noise and find the carrier that works for you. 

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

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