Whether it’s New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or countless other iconic cities, there’s no denying that the United States is packed with emblematic destinations. From world-famous landmarks and cultural attractions to vibrant nightlife and breathtaking natural landscapes, it’s easy to see why the U.S. remains one of the most popular travel destinations worldwide.
But because the U.S. is such a vast and diverse country, having reliable internet access is absolutely essential. Whether you’re planning your next stop, finding great places to eat, booking accommodations, or simply navigating with Google Maps, staying connected makes your trip easier and more enjoyable. And of course, you’ll want to share your adventures with friends and family back home.
We know the USA is a country where distances can be long and public Wi-Fi isn’t always available; therefore, having a working mobile internet connection is indispensable That’s why it’s important to explore your connectivity options before you travel, physical SIM cards and eSIMs have become more popular because they are convenient and reliable. In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know so you can choose the best SIM card for your needs.
What options are available for getting mobile internet in the US
The US is quite a modern and technological country, so your options to get mobile internet are endless. Here we summarize everything you need to know about them. The following are the most common and convenient options:
- Public WiFi: in the US you’ll probably find public WiFi everywhere you go. Except, if you are on the road, you’ll probably need an internet connection from a local carriers.
- Public Wi-Fi is a good option because it helps you save on data and it’s free.
Remember to always be cautious and avoid entering sensitive information, such as bank passwords, or visiting suspicious websites - Roaming in USA: you can choose to hire a roaming service from your local provider, but remember it can be quite expensive. Also, it can only be used if you are currently enrolled in a postpaid plan.
- Pocket WiFi: These portable hotspots have become quite popular. They are useful if you plan to use several devices that need an internet connection or if you want to share the network with multiple people
- Local SIM cards: many local carriers offer prepaid SIM cards tailored to different data needs and lengths of stay.
- eSIMs: they have become quite popular in the past few years. They are easy to use and convenient, as you don’t need to swap physical SIM cards. You can also install them beforehand and arrive in the U.S. with a working internet connection.
As you can see, there are many options, but today we’ll focus on SIM cards and eSIM´s since they are the most convenient alternative.
Best eSIMs for the US
eSIMs are a fast, convenient, and flexible way to stay connected without needing to swap out your physical SIM card. Also, you can install them before traveling so when you arrive you already have data. Here are the top eSIM providers that offer great value, strong coverage, and easy setup for travelers to the United States:
Simsolo
Simsolo offers a variety of data-only eSIMs for the US. Also, they have a user-friendly website and APP where you can purchase the plans. Staying connected while traveling in the United States doesn’t have to involve expensive roaming fees or complicated SIM swaps. The USA eSIM from SIMSOLO is a modern, affordable solution for tourists, business travelers, and digital nomads alike.
Data packages start at just $4.90, with options for 3, 5, 7, 15, and 30-day durations. Choose the plan that best fits your itinerary, and rest easy knowing there are no contracts, hidden fees, or auto-renewals.
Key Features about SIMSOLO USA eSIM:
- Pricing: competitive, with options for short and long stays
- Validity: varies from 3 to 30 days
- Network: Major U.S. carriers (typically T-Mobile or AT&T)
- Data: fixed and unlimited options available
- Pros: easy to use, transparent pricing, reliable coverage
- Cons: No call/SMS support (data-only)
Maya Mobile
Maya Mobile offers fixed and daily unlimited data plans. With hotspot support, it’s ideal for groups needing to share data on the go.
- Pricing: Up to $26.09 or a daily fee for unlimited dat
- Validity: 5 to 30 days (renewable up to 180 days)
- Network: Verizon, AT&T
- Pros: Hotspot support, both fixed and unlimited options
- Cons: No call or text capability
Airalo
Airalo offers data-only and combo plans (with calls and texts). It’s great for travelers who want flexibility at a fair price. They include a free 500 MB welcome eSIM.
- Pricing: $4 to $40
- Validity: 3 to 30 days
- Network: T-Mobile, Verizon
- Pros: Free welcome eSIM, includes call/SMS options
- Cons: fixed data options
Holafly
Holafly offers unlimited data plans and flexible durations. Great for heavy data users and group travelers
- Pricing: unlimited data at a higher fee $6.90 -$132
- Validity: 1 to 90 days
- Network: T-Mobile, Verizon
- Data: Unlimited
- Pros: Unlimited data, hotspot sharing, flexible duration
- Cons: No support for calls or SMS, have data speed limits
Nomad
Nomad offers both fixed data for 7 or 30 days or you can pay per day 1GB of high speed data.
- Pricing: $5 to $27
- Validity: 5 to 180 days
- Network: Verizon, AT&T
- Pros: Daily and up to 30 day options
- Cons: Daily plans can be expensive
How to pick the best eSIM
When picking an eSIM for your trip to the US, consider the following:
1. Price
- Compare eSIM providers based on how much data you get for the price.
- Watch for hidden fees or data usage restrictions.
2. Data and speed
- Choose a plan with enough data for your trip, depending on your needs (streaming, navigation, social media).
- Check if you’ll get 4G or 5G coverage, and whether your data speed is reduced after a certain limit.
3. Validity period
- Make sure the eSIM lasts for your full stay.
- Some plans are as short as 3 days, others last up to 30 or 60 days.
4. Device Compatibility
- Not all phones support eSIM. Confirm your device is unlocked and eSIM compatible.
- Most recent iPhones and some Android phones (e.g., Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy) support eSIM.
5. Activation process
- Some eSIMs are activated instantly via QR code, while others require manual setup or even a support request.
- Choose one with clear instructions and good support.
Best Local SIM cards for the US
Getting a prepaid SIM card in the United States is easy, with plenty of convenient options available to travelers:
- Carrier retail stores: Major providers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile operate retail locations nationwide. These are reliable spots to buy and activate a SIM card.
- Electronics and department stores: Retail chains such as Walmart and Best Buy usually carry a range of SIM cards from various networks, making them a convenient one-stop option.
- Airports: If you prefer to get connected right after landing, airport kiosks and convenience stores often sell SIM cards
- Online: Many travelers prefer to order a SIM card in advance through an online provider. This often comes with better prices and allows you to start using your plan the moment you arrive.
Lycamobile
Lycamobile is a popular low-cost MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) that runs on T-Mobile’s network.
- $19 plan: 3 GB data, unlimited calls/texts
- $29 plan: 10 GB data, unlimited calls/texts + some international minutes
- $49 plan: Unlimited data, unlimited calls/texts in the U.S., plus 30+ countries for calling
- SIM card: Often free with plan purchase online or $3–$10 in-store
T-Mobile Prepaid
T-Mobile has great 4G/5G coverage in urban areas and flexible prepaid plans.
- $10 plan: 1 GB data, unlimited talk/text (30 days)
- $40 plan: 10 GB data, unlimited talk/text
- $50/month Unlimited: Unlimited 5G data, hotspot use, and calling/texting
- Tourist Plan: $30 for 3 weeks – includes 10 GB data + 1000 domestic mins + unlimited texts
- SIM card: ~$10, sometimes included if you buy online or in-store
AT&T Prepaid
AT&T’s prepaid plans offer strong nationwide coverage, ideal for road trips or rural areas.
- $30 plan: 5 GB data, unlimited talk/text
- $40 plan: 15 GB data, rollover, hotspot included
- $65 plan: Unlimited data with 5G access and hotspot support
- SIM card: $0–$9.99 depending on where you buy
Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile operates on T-Mobile’s network and offers discounts for buying multiple months beforehand.
- $15/month: 5 GB data (when you prepay 3 months)
- $20/month: 15 GB data
- $30/month: Unlimited data (35 GB high-speed, then reduced)
- SIM card: Free when purchased online with a plan
Ultra Mobile
Another T-Mobile MVNO focused on international travelers.
- $23 plan: 3 GB data, unlimited talk/text + international calling to 80+ countries
- $29 plan: 10 GB data
- $49 plan: Unlimited data with international talk/text
- SIM card: Usually free online or around $5 in stores
What’s the final word?
Whether you’re visiting the US} for a few days or a few months, staying connected is essential. As you can see both local SIM cards and eSIMs offer convenient, affordable solutions.
- Local SIM cards (like those from T-Mobile, AT&T, Lycamobile, or Mint Mobile) are ideal if you prefer buying in person or need access to voice and text along with data. They offer a range of prepaid plans with strong coverage and can be picked up at stores, airports, or major retailers.
- eSIMs (such as those from Simsolo, Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad) are perfect for digital convenience. You can purchase and activate them online before your trip, the advantage is you don’t need physical SIMs or store visits. They’re especially great for short stays or frequent travelers.
