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

Make sure your phone speaks the right language.

At a glance

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

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

When you're preparing for a big trip, the last thing you want to worry about is finding the best prepaid SIM card so you can stay in touch with folks at home. Luckily, we've done the heavy lifting so you can spend less time picking out a SIM card and more time packing. 

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

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

From $15 at Mint Mobile

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

Read more below.

From $19 at Ultra Mobile

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

Read more below.  

From $15 at Lycamobile

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

From $30 at AT&T

Best non-MVNO 

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

From $40 at T-Mobile

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

From $35 at Cricket Wireless

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

1. Mint Mobile

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

2. Ultra Mobile 3GB

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

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

3. Lycamobile

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

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

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

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

4. AT&T Prepaid

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

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

5. T-Mobile Prepaid

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

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

6. Cricket Wireless

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

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

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

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Which prepaid SIM card is best for you?

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

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

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

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

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

What about eSIM apps?

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

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

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

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

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Patrick Farmer

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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us travel sim card reddit

Traveltomtom<span>.</span>

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

us travel sim card reddit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

you may also like...

Buying a Sim Card at Los Angeles Airport in 2024

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

In this guide about the best e-sim cards for the United States I will tell you everything you need to know about staying connected with an e-sim card when traveling to the USA in 2024. 

First I will give you my recommendation, then a comparison of the best e-sim cards for the USA with up to date prices as per March 2024, explain you how e-sim cards work, more about the network coverage and 4G/5G network, some FAQ about e-sim cards and I will also explain the difference between e-sim cards and local prepaid sim cards.

My recommendation

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

us travel sim card reddit

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

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

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

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

2. Three HK e-sim from SimOptions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unlocked phones only

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

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

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

E-sim compatible phones only

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

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

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

USA e-sim card comparison for 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

simoptions esim card plans for usa 2024

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

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

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

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

three hk esim card plans for usa 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

airalo esim card plans for usa 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

nomad esim card plans for usa 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

nomad usa esim card specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the cheapest e-sim card for the USA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

International data roaming plans

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

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

Where to buy an e-sim card for USA?

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

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

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

On arrival in USA

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

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

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

How to activate an e-sim card

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Make sure your phone is unlocked

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

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

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

Which smartphones support e-sim cards?

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

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

Can I trust these e-sim card providers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best way to stay connected when traveling to USA

buying a sim card for the usa

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

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

Local prepaid sim cards

International prepaid sim cards, e-sim cards.

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

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

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

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

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

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

international prepaid sim cards for usa 2024

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

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

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

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

There are two different e-sim cards:

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

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

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

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

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

E-sim cards vs. local prepaid sim cards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Curious what it looks like trying to visit every country in the world ? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along. As of March 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, so still a long way to go.

Enjoy your trip to USA!

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

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Best Tourist Sim Cards in USA in 2024

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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 March 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.

us travel sim card reddit

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

us travel sim card reddit

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.

Mitchell

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.

us travel sim card reddit

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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Best Prepaid SIM Card For USA Tourists with Data

Last Updated on November 27, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Prepaid SIM Card for USA Comparison

Should you buy a prepaid sim for the usa.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Having a prepaid SIM for USA travel is useful for driving

The Best Prepaid SIM Card for USA Tourists

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

T-Mobile SIM with Unlimited Data

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Three SIM with 12GB Data

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AT&T SIM with 22GB Data

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orange Holiday World SIM with 10GB Data

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

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

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

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

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

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

LycaMobile SIM with 4GB Data

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

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

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

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

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

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

us travel sim card reddit

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About Michael Rozenblit

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

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

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

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

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

which sim card do you recommend me?

Gilles Blais

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

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

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

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

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

Hi Michael,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks and Kind Regards Jean GT

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

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

Thanks, Luke

Hi Luke, I would choose T-Mobile.

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

Hi Diane, You can recharge most prepaid SIM cards.

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

T-Mobile Prepaid SIM is a good option

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Appreciate if you have time to comments…Thank you

Best regards, Tim Jensen

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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The best international sim cards for travel | an in-depth data plan buyer’s guide for traveling abroad.

How to find the best international SIM Card and eSIM data plan.

phones and technology

us travel sim card reddit

Ensuring your phone has high-speed data when you travel internationally is a confusing and frustrating process for many travelers—in fact, it’s one of the most-asked questions I get from readers. That’s why I wanted to help remove the mystery around international data plans by creating this guide to the best international SIM cards.

Traveling to Europe? Check The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To Smartphones, SIM Cards, and Data Plans in Europe , my guide to How To Buy A SIM Card For Europe , and my guide to the best eSIM Data Plans For Europe .

International SIM Cards vs Single-Country/Local SIM Cards vs Global SIM Cards

us travel sim card reddit

Choosing the best international SIM card can be confusing because there are a ton of options and each has its own positives and negatives. So let’s start by defining the overall SIM card categories:

  • International SIM cards can often be purchased before your trip so they can be mailed to you before departure or you can download the eSIM if your phone is compatible.
  • International SIM Cards will be slightly more expensive than local SIM cards but they’re more convenient—especially if you’re using an eSIM.
  • Buying a Local SIM is often the most affordable option but you have the added hassle of having to hunt down a SIM Card after you arrive, dealing with language barriers, and you may need to register the SIM before activation (which may require you to submit your passport and provide a local address)
  • NOTE: By EU law, any SIM card bought in the EU will work in any other EU country with no extra charges.
  • Global SIM cards are notoriously bad . They’re often run by faceless companies with no customer support and they seem to always have connection issues—just do a search on Amazon and you’ll see a ton of negative feedback. You also typically pay way more and get way less data.
  • However, I am a fan of the Orange Holiday World SIM card since it’s owned by Orange—which is one of the largest mobile providers in the world but data is limited in some countries.

E-SIM Data Plans vs (Physical) SIM Card Data Plans

us travel sim card reddit

Up until a few years ago, you had to physically remove the plastic SIM card from your phone and install a new SIM card if you wanted to connect to a new mobile provider.

However, many modern phones now let you download a digital eSIM to your phone so you no longer have to deal with physically removing any SIM cards. eSIMs are way more convenient because you don’t have to track down a SIM card and you can often install multiple eSIM cards on your phone (in addition to your physical SIM) so you can have multiple plans on a single phone.

Not all data providers currently offer eSIM data plans so you might have limited plan options—but I imagine this will become the standard over the next few years.

What To Look For In An International SIM Card

best international SIM cards

Are you still confused about international SIM cards? Don’t worry.

Here are some common things to keep in mind when researching and evaluating all the various international data plan options.

Some SIM Card Plans Are Data Only

Every SIM data plan has different terms when it comes to calls and texts. Many are data only—i.e. no calls or texts. Or some come with local calls and texts but don’t let you make international calls or texts. And others let you make worldwide texts and calls.

Data-only plans tend to be the cheapest while plans that offer worldwide calls/texts are the most expensive.

NOTE: Apple iMessage is sent via data so they’ll work with data-only plans (assuming you’re sending an iMessages to other Apple users). You can also use apps like WhatsApp via data so data-only is typically sufficient.

Not All SIM Data Plans Allow Data Tethering

Data-tethering (i.e. using your phone as a hotspot for other devices like your computer, etc.) isn’t allowed on all data plans so keep that in mind when choosing a data plan.

Global SIM Cards Offer Different Data Limits For Different Countries

Global SIM cards often group countries into different “zones” and each zone will have different data allowances.

For example, “zone one” countries might give you 10GB of data, but “zone two” counties could only give you 5GB of data, and then “zone three” countries might only give you 500MB of data. Check the plan details before buying.

Check The International SIM Card Plan’s Validity Period

Most international SIM cards are valid anywhere from seven to 30 days once you activate your card.

This is something you’ll obviously want to pay attention to since you don’t want your plan to expire before your trip ends. Some plans will let you “top-up” your plan so you can add extra time without having to buy another SIM card, but you’re often only allowed one or two “top-ups” before needing to buy another plan.

Your Phone Must Be Unlocked

Some phones are “carrier locked”—i.e. they’re digitally programmed to only work on your mobile provider’s network. This means it won’t work if you install another network’s SIM card until it’s “unlocked.”

Most mobile providers will unlock your phone if you request it so inquire before leaving as it might require a visit to the store or a few emails/phone calls with tech support.

Best International SIM Cards and eSIM Cards by Region

us travel sim card reddit

There isn’t a single “best” international SIM card for everywhere in the world but each region has some good options so that’s why I’ve broken this section down by region.

Orange Holiday World (Great SIM Card For Most Countries In The World)

us travel sim card reddit

The Orange Holiday World is a very popular choice for world travelers because it covers just about everywhere in the world and it’s backed by Orange—most “world” SIM cards are backed by no-name companies.

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.

  • PRICE:  $50
  • DATA:  10GB
  • INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?:  NO
  • USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?:  Yes
  • CREDIT VALID FOR:  14 Days

The Orange Holiday World plan includes 10GB of 4G/LTE data in many countries but there are a few “zones” that have a lower data limit.

Zone 1 (10GB data included) Europe:  Andorra, Azores, Aland islands, Austria, Balearic islands, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Corfu, Crete, Croatia, Cyprus, Cyclades islands, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France mainland, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Isle of Man, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rhodes, Romania, Spain, United Kingdom, San Marino, Sardinia, Serbia, Sicily, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, Ukraine, Vatican

Other countries:  Algeria, Armenia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Benin, Botswana, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, Cameroon, Chad, Chile, China, Congo, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Korea (south), Kuwait, Liberia, Macao, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, New Zealand, Uganda, Peru, Qatar, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, USA, Vietnam

Zone 2 (5GB data included) Albania, Argentina, Bahrain, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Polynesia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iraq, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Dominican Republic, Uruguay

Zone 3 (1GB data included) Afghanistan, Belarus, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines, Sri Lanka, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Togo, Venezuela

Zone 4 (50MB data included) Rest of the world

HOLAFLY ESIM (Unlimted Data eSIM Plans)

us travel sim card reddit

Holafly  is a new data-only eSIM provider that I recently used in Italy—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my  Holafly eSIM Review  to learn more). They sell both country-specific and regional data plans. Unlike other companies, Holafly’s plans give you unlimited data and their plans run from 5 to 90 days (they will throttle your data if you use excessive data).

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

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM and Physical SIM (Two Great Options For Europe)

us travel sim card reddit

The  Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card  and the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM Card are probably the best all-around options for European data because you get a good amount of data for a reasonable price—and it includes worldwide calls and text.

NOTE: Buy the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM Card if your phone is eSIM compatible since you’ll save on shipping fees and eSIMs are more convenient than physical SIM cards.

Additionally, Orange is one of the largest mobile companies in the world and they have great coverage throughout most of Europe.

Plan Specs:

  • DATA:  30GB
  • CALLS:  Unlimted in Europe and 1200 minutes worldwide
  • TEXT:  Unlimted in Europe and 1000 worldwide
  • CAN BE USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?:  Yes

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM and Physical (Cheaper Option For Europe)

us travel sim card reddit

If you need less data and want to save a little money, check out the  Orange Holiday Zen SIM  and the Orange Holiday Zen eSIM —both are great all-around options for European data because you still get a solid amount of data for a reasonable price. Both plans also include worldwide calls and texts.

  • Price:  $29.90
  • Data:  15GB
  • Service Speed:  4G/LTE
  • Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
  • Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.
  • Credit validity:  14 day
  • Data tethering allowed
  • Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
  • Cards come with a French phone number

AIS eSIM2FLY Global (eSIM that covers much of the world)

us travel sim card reddit

After the Orange Holiday World SIM, the AIS eSIM2FLY Global is another good option that doesn’t quite have as much data but it has the benefit of being an eSIM (so you don’t have to deal with shipping fees).

PRICE:  $49.90 DATA:  6GB INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?:  NO CREDIT VALID FOR:  15 Days

Asia & Middle East

  • Bangladesh, Bahrain 5G , Brunei, Cambodia, China (incl Tibet) 5G , Hong Kong 5G , India, Indonesia 5G , Israel 5G , Japan 5G , Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar (Currently Blocked), Nepal, Oman 5G , Papua New Guinea, Pakistan, Philippines 5G , Qatar 5G , Saudi Arabia, Singapore 5G , South Korea 5G , Sri Lanka, Taiwan 5G , United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Dubai, Abu Dhabi 5G , Uzbekistan, Vietnam 5G
  • Chad, Congo (Democratic Republic Of), Congo Republic, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar Republic, Malawi, Nigeria, Reunion, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda
  • Åland Islands, Albania, Armenia, Austria 5G , Azerbaijan, Belgium 5G , Belarus, Bulgaria 5G , Croatia 5G , Cyprus (Northern), Czech Republic 5G , Denmark 5G , England 5G , Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland 5G , France 5G , Georgia, Germany 5G , Greece, Hungary 5G , Iceland 5G , Ireland 5G , Italy 5G , Kazakhstan, Latvia 5G , Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg 5G , Malta 5G , Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands 5G , Norway 5G , Poland 5G , Portugal 5G , Romania, Russia 5G , San Marino 5G , Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia 5G , Spain 5G , Sweden 5G , Switzerland 5G , Turkey 5G , Ukraine, United Kingdom UK 5G , Vatican City 5G

North America

  • Canada 5G , Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico  , Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, USA (incl Hawaii), United States Virgin Islands

South America

  • Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia , Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay

Oceania and Pacific Islands

  • Australia 5G , Fiji, Guam, Nauru, New Zealand, Tonga

Travel SIM World (Multi-Country Coverage)

us travel sim card reddit

  • Price:  $39.90
  • Data:  6GB
  • Credit validity: Lasts up to 15 days from the first point of activation.
  • Calls/Texts: Does not support any calls or SMS. You are not able to receive any calls or SMS.

Countries Covered:

Albania, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Macao, Malaysia, Malta, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tibet, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA, Vietnam

AIS SIM2FLY SIM Card (Covers Much of Asia)

us travel sim card reddit

  • Price $19.90
  • Data: 6GB at maximum 4G/3G speed in Asia (wherever available)
  • Credit validity: 10 days Credit Validity
  • Coverage: 24 Asian countries (see below).

Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China (including Tibet), Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam

China Unicom Asia 12 Days Data SIM (Multiple Asian Countries)

us travel sim card reddit

  • Price: $22.90
  • Credit validity: 12 days Credit Validity
  • Coverage: 14 Asian countries (see below).

Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam

MORE TIPS ON USING YOUR MOBILE PHONE INTERNATIONALLY

us travel sim card reddit

BUY A PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

Using apps like Google Maps and taking photos kills your phone battery so a portable battery is a must-have. I use  Anker PowerCore 10000  because it’s tiny and affordable but there are multiple options.

USING FREE WIFI WHILE TRAVELING ABROAD

I think people overestimate how easy it is to find free wifi in abroad. Yes, free wifi is becoming more prevalent throughout the world—however, it’s hard to rely exclusively on free wifi since it can be a pain to actually find a free network when you actually need it.

The best places to find free wifi are McDonald’s, Starbucks, cafés, coffee shops, and hostels/hotels — but getting connected is rarely super convenient, reliable, or fast.

Relying on free wifi fails when it comes to day-to-day stuff like using Google Maps, looking up restaurant reviews via Google/Trip Advisor/Yelp, using random apps, using Uber, booking e-tickets, using email, etc. because these are things you typically do spur of the moment. That’s why I prefer to have the option of having mobile data because having to seek out a coffee shop every time I want to use the internet gets tiring very quickly.

HOW TO LOWER YOUR MOBILE DATA USAGE

Data can be expensive and it’s extremely easy to unknowingly burn through a lot of data because many apps use data in the background. Facebook, email, Instagram, Snapchat… those all constantly use data throughout the day without you knowing it. That’s it’s important to know how to limit your data usage.

USE AIRPLANE MODE AND BLOCK DATA TO SPECIFIC APPS

I’ll put my phone in Airplane Mode because that disables all data (but GPS still works in Airplane Mode). You can also go into the settings and disable data access to each individual app. I’ll go in and turn every off except for things like Google Maps or others that I’ll use more frequently — this way when I turn off Airplane Mode only those apps that will use data. Then I’ll turn Airplane Mode back on when I’m done.

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS

Google Maps lets you download entire city maps so they can be used offline. As an added bonus, GPS doesn’t use data so offline Google Maps works fairly well (but not all functionality works). Here is a good  YouTube video  that explains everything.

MAKE CALLS OVER WhatsApp

WhatsApp is an excellent app for free calling and text messages—I’ve found that most people outside the US exclusively use WhatsApp to communicate (including many Airbnb hosts).

MORE TRAVEL ADVICE FROM THE SAVVY BACKPACKER

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  • How Much It Costs To Travel Europe  (For Multiple Travel Styles)
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Home » Budget Travel » best international sim cards

9 BEST International SIM Cards for Travel (Buyer’s Guide • 2024)

SIM cards are a royal pain in the butt when travelling. Every time you land somewhere new, you have to perform the same song and dance of going out of your way to get a new sim pretty much as soon as possible.

Usually what happens is that you land in the airport and then you either get ripped off buying a SIM card there or navigate to town without any connectivity. Once you’re in town, you have to navigate a foreign city sifting through local SIM providers, various plans, and also probably getting lost along the way. It’s not the ideal way to start a vacation and I cannot even count the hours I’ve lost shopping for sims in new countries.

That’s why buying one of the best international SIM cards is THE way to go.

An International SIM card is one which will work all over the world meaning that you never have to change it again – no more messing around at the O2 Kiosk in strange airports!

Now, to set the record straight, while there are cheaper travel SIM cards in existence, they still aren’t exactly cheap. Nine times out of ten, a local SIM card is always going to be the cheaper option for budget backpackers.

Maybe you’re a digital nomad who always needs to be connected, maybe you’re a high-flying businessperson with fancy business attire who makes busy business calls while on holiday or maybe (like me) you are just sick of having to change sims.

Either way, this is the list of the best international SIM cards on the market! I’ve done all the leg-work and the research to deliver an international SIM cards review in full. So let’s get ourselves connected.

A traveller makes a phone call from a mountaintop

Compare The Best International SIM Cards

What is an international sim card, the best sim cards for international travellers, international data sim cards for digital nomads, social media addicts, and tinder aficionados, a quick review of each sim card, frequently asked questions about travel sim cards, should you buy an international sim card.

This isn’t the whole roundup but it is my personal pick of the best international SIM cards worth looking into, each one serving a different niche.

onesim card for travellers

  • > e-Sim and Traditional Sims available
  • > Wide and reliable coverage
  • > Low SIM-purchasing fees

mockup of a person holding a smartphone in white background with Holafly logo

  • > Virtual sim – no plastic needed!
  • > Excellent range of packages
  • > Download before you leave home

us travel sim card reddit

TravelSim Worldwide Card

  • > Cheaper initial cost
  • > Some cheaper rates for off-beat countries
  • > No long-standing reputation

us travel sim card reddit

KeepGo Lifetime World SIM Card

  • > Reliable connection
  • > Prone to cutting rates
  • > Coverage could be better

us travel sim card reddit

Surfroam SIM Card

  • > Simple rates – no bundle packs
  • > Huge coverage
  • > Requires a PRO account for maximum coverage

us travel sim card reddit

Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card

  • > Extremely reliable in Europe
  • > Easily sufficient for a two-week holiday
  • > Excludes a number of countries in Europe

International SIMs, roaming SIMs, travel SIM Cards whatever: a rose by any name can still order you a pizza when you don’t want to leave the guesthouse after all right? That’s what an international SIM card is, a SIM card that will have you hooked up from “anywhere” .

Why did you put ‘anywhere’ in quotes?

Because it’s a highly variable anywhere. “Anywhere” really means from the countries that the international SIM covers. That said, some of these travel SIM providers cover over 200 countries.

That also said, there are only 195 countries in the world so I’m not sure how they mathed those numbers out. Still unsure, have a look at our guide to local vs international SIM cards .

us travel sim card reddit

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So, how does an international SIM card work?

Without getting too technical, an international SIM card isn’t programmed to one specific network. It’s programmed to operate on a number of networks in a number of different geographical locations – specifically, networks using the GSM (Global Systems of Management Communications) framework.

That’s why to use your cell phone internationally with a travel SIM card it needs to be:

  • GSM-compatible (many phones are).
  • Unlocked, i.e. not tied to a provider.

Do be sure about that unlocked phone bit before you go ahead and buy a new one.

Hacker googling

Basically, global SIM cards will plug into a local network from the country you’re travelling to… Consensually, of course.

That’s why coverage so strongly varies among the many international SIMs. Some SIM cards are for worldwide use and programmed accordingly. Some SIM cards are for international roaming in certain regions like Asia, the USA, or Europe (usually, omitting a third of Europe in their coverage).

For example, you’ll need a different sim card for the USA and Canada in most cases, but in Europe you’ll more than likely be able to use the same one.

Who benefits from buying an international SIM card?

Well, like I said, not so much the longterm backpacker types . A local SIM card is pretty much always cheaper and much more practical (and reliable) for long stays in any country. Unfortunately, actual cheap international sim cards don’t exist yet.

Country-hoppers , on the other hand, may want to consider buying some sort of prepaid international SIM card. Buying local SIM cards for only 1-2 weeks of use eight times in a trip is nobody’s idea of fun, especially if you care about data usage and double especially if you care about plastic ending up in the ocean.

Businessman talking on the phone with a internationally roaming

People living the digital nomad lifestyle may also benefit from a travel SIM. Though a local SIM is much more equipped for longterm stays in a country, sometimes the options or service is crap and sometimes you’ll spend long stretches in transit which is a perfect time to crunch out a few hours. Besides, there is no rule that says you can’t have two SIMs. A prepaid international sim card might be the best option here (more about that later).

Lastly, business people or people that take frequent short trips will benefit from a SIM card for international travel. I might be stereotyping here but I kinda feel that these folk are less concerned with the costs associated. Plus, most SIM cards for overseas use tend to have 1-year validity for purchased credit, so it’s totally viable to park your SIM after a trip and then pop it back in for the next one.

Beginning the list are the top international SIM cards for traveling that do everything a SIM card should do: call, texts, and mobile data . These SIMs have some pretty major coverage globally and for most travellers in the world, are more than sufficient.

Of course, there has to be a best-of-the-best in this international sim card comparison. So first up–the best travel SIM card!

#1 The Overall Best International SIM Card – OneSim

OneSim

Ok, so what makes OneSim the best travel SIM card? It’s a fine difference between the first few candidates but OneSim edges out on top for a combination of versatility, pricing, and reliability.

First up, they offer multiple different SIM cards each catering to different travelling needs INCLUDING (but not limited to) 2 awesome e-Sim options :

  • OneSimCard e-Sim World (From $9.95) – Coverage of 150 countries with free incoming calls on EU numbers.
  • OneSimCard e-Sim Asiana (From $9.95) – Specially designed for Asia and Oceania. Data packages available.

If your phone is not yet e-Sim ready, then worry not because OneSim also offer some excellent deals on plastic sims:

  • OneSimCard Universal ($29.95) – Coverage of over 200 countries but with a more limited data service (50+) countries.
  • OneSimCard Expedition ($34.95) – Offers much the same coverage as the OneSim Universal travel SIM but with way more data coverage. It’s the choice for the explorers.

OneSim

How OneSim Works

You’ll get a $10 bonus credit with any OneSIM roaming SIM card purchase, but once that’s gone, you’ll have to continue buying data plans. Rates vary wildly by both the choice of travel SIM card you are using and the country you’re in so you’ll need to check these rates to see if they suit you.

You’ll receive two numbers: a European (Estonian) number and a choice of one from the USA, UK, Australia, or Canada. Incoming calls on the primary European number is free in a large coverage of countries or starting from $0.25/min otherwise. Outgoing calls also start from $0.25/min (dependent on locations) and receiving texts are free.

Casual data rates start at rather hefty $0.20/MB . However, what makes this such a good prepaid international SIM card is that there is a lot of choices to lower your costs. You can buy data bundles ranging from one/two weeks to a month divided by zone or region. There are also discount plans and bundles available for call rates. This makes the OneSIM one of the best international SIM cards for data as well.

So, is it worth it?

Although not strictly the cheapest international SIM card on the market, the wealth of choices means that you can tailor your SIM card to your world travel needs and minimize costs. The added bonus is that OneSim has been kicking around for a while so they know the market well.

They provide a reliable service, as well as a bunch of neat extras, to keep their clients happy chappies. If you’re looking for the best sim card for international travel, OneSIM is definitely one you should consider getting.

#2 Best Global eSim Provider – Holafly

HolaFly eSIm

If you have a modern phone (iPhone 11 , Samsung Galaxy S21, etc or above) it will probably be eSim compatible. This means that you don’t actually need a plastic SIM card but can simply download an eSim via HolaFly the same way you would download an app.

When I first heard of eSim about one year ago, it was something of a niche product simply because most travellers were using phones and devices that were not eSim compatible. However that is changing fast and by 2024, an estimated 80% of travlers will use eSim. The eSim marketplace is a very exciting one and the providers are contently innovating to come up with some new, better, cheaper packages – according to our research, HolaFly are currently leading the pack.

The HolaFly App is easy to use

How HolaFly Works

Firstly, do note that at this time HolaFly don’t offer a single International Sim Card that covers the entire world. However the beauty of using HolaFly is that once the app is downloaded onto your phone, it is incredibly simple to log into it and select a package for the destination you need.

Furthermore, HolaFly do currently offer an easy-to-use and competitively priced Europe package that covers the entire continent (more or less). Hopefully they will soon offer a similar product for South America and Southeast Asia too.

Simply download the HolaFly app onto your device and then you can use it to browse and compare eSim packages from well over 100 countries. HolaFly also offer data sharing capabilities in some destinations, which is very handy for couples traveling together.

So, Is It Worth It?

The packages available via HolaFly are not the cheapest and you may end up paying a bit more than you would with a plastic sim. Unless of course you use our exclusive THEBROKEBACKPACKER coupon code and bag yourself some savings.

Overall though, in terms of sheer convenience yes HolaFly is worth it – you you can browse for and install an eSim from the comfort your device and get it ready to use before you even leave home which saves a whole lotta hassle. That said, the one I tried in India last year did not work too well.

View on HolaFly

#3 A Cheaper International SIM Card – TravelSim

TravelSim

TravelSim gets a tentative recommendation. It doesn’t quite have the lofty reputation of OneSim, but it does work out pretty well as a cheap(ish) international SIM card. Also, I like that there isn’t a whole range of SIMs to slog through and instead its just one choice, plain and simple.

How TravelSim Works

The initial fee for TravelSim’s universal SIM card is $10 ; already cheaper. You get coverage in 170+ countries with free incoming calls to more than 135 of them.

Much like OneSim, you can buy credit for a pay-as-you-go international SIM card setup, but the rates will be worse. For better rates, you’re better off purchasing one of their zonal/regional bundles .

TravelSim edges out the competition in this regard. A number of their bundles for Zone B countries (off-beat travel destinations) are cheaper than the competition. Not massively so, but enough to make some solid savings in the long run. Outside of that, their rates tend to stand pretty toe-to-toe with OneSim.

It’s a cheap international travel SIM card overall given the lower purchase price. Furthermore, for those that enjoy the adventures in lesser-explored places in the world but still need to stay connected, TravelSim may be the better choice of SIM card for overseas use. The coverage isn’t quite as wide as some other competitors, but the extra savings are nice.

Oh, and as an added bonus, they have a Vietnam-specific bundle that’s really good! I don’t know why – it’s a bit weird – but I suppose that also makes this the best international SIM card for travelling to Vietnam !

#4 Best SIM Card for Travelling Specific Regions – GoSim

GoSim

GoSim, much like OneSim, provides a selection of different international SIM cards for travel to allow you to be a bit more selective with your rates. The difference is that GoSim divides this up more zonally and they all cost the same – $13 .

GoSims travel SIM cards include:

  • International SIM Card
  • Europe SIM Card
  • USA SIM Card
  • Asia SIM Card

You can expect some added bonuses and cheaper rates on their region-specific SIMs, but let’s break down their international SIM card… because this is a ‘best international SIM cards’ guide.

How GoSim Works

With the GoSim International SIM card, you get coverage in over 210 countries (again, there are only 195 in the world, but maybe they know more than us…) with free incoming calls in more than 135. The casual rates, again, don’t differ much from OneSim. The coverage for data services is comparable to OneSim’s Expedition card.

So how do the data bundles stack up? Well, they’re more expensive across the board… damn.

GoSim doesn’t excel past the other options of sim cards on this list. In fact, insofar, it is the most expensive entry on this list, at least in regards to data bundles. If you’re looking for the best international SIM card for data, this might not be the one.

However, while their international card doesn’t really stand out as the best travel SIM card on the market, it is worth taking a look at their region-specific roaming SIMs. If you’re traveling to a specific country or area, these SIMs come with some nice extra perks.

I mean, hell, the Asia Travel SIM Card even advertises being able to bypass the Great Firewall of China. If that’s true, then this it’s definitely the best SIM card for travelling to China . Probably for citizens of China too…

#5 A Worldwide SIM Card – WorldSIM

WorldSIM

WorldSIM gets a mention on this list because it’s another puller in the market with some comparatively awesome rates. It’s also got some really weirdly expensive outlying rates. As such, we certainly don’t feel like it’s a fit for the best SIM card for international roaming.

How WorldSim Works

The WorldSIM international SIM card has no purchasing fee- woo! Now, before you get too excited, it does require a top-up of credit at purchase.

That means that you’re paying a minimum of $33.75 plus shipping . For $67.50 of credit, shipping is free.

The casual rates for outgoing calls, texts, and data usage are the cheapest I’ve found so far with data coverage extending to countries missed out on by OneSim. Except, a lot of the rates in various countries for incoming calls are shockingly high.

As for the data bundles? No idea. Their website isn’t working for that page and is just stuck in an infinitely loading loop.

Our gut says no. But, you do you. You shouldn’t base your decisions on buying an international SIM card on the gut instincts of a stranger online. All the same though, our gut says no.

Between the mildly bait-and-switch-y “$0” SIM purchasing fee, the janky and unwieldy website, and the weird incoming call rates that could potentially trap an unwitting consumer, WorldSIM in review doesn’t feel like an international SIM card worth purchasing, especially in comparison to other choices on the market.

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These are the best international  data SIM cards for those of us that scoot by without the extras.

#1 Best Data SIM Card for International Travel – KeepGo

KeepGo

KeepGo offers a prepaid international data SIM card that, while not the cheapest, comes out on top in terms of reliability. To reiterate, this is a data-only travel SIM card but in the world of WhatsApp, Messenger, and a million-billion other services, an international data plan is more than sufficient to keep you covered in your travels.

Coverage is decent for the KeepGo World SIM. More than a hundred countries ( here’s the list of coverage ) with locations throughout Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, Europe, and others. However, coverage for less-frequented locations (Africa is largely absent) is weak so this may not be the best SIM for international travel for those who prefer their destinations rugged and untamed.

KeepGo advertises unthrottled 4G connections but this is only applicable in countries where 4G is available.

How it Works

The KeepGo worldwide SIM card costs $49 to purchase and comes with 2 GB of data loaded . The data has a “lifetime validity” provided that you top up at least once a year. That’s still pretty good all things considered.

Data can be topped up with a number of plans ranging from 100 MB up to a slammin’ 25 GB ! The prices of data top-ups are:

  • 100 MB – $3
  • 1 GB – $24
  • 3 GB – $58
  • 5 GB – $79
  • 10 GB – $155
  • 25 GB – $250

While this isn’t the cheapest international data SIM card, it is the best for the purpose of getting connected on the road. Reliability and speed is strong in a large array of destinations and, depending on your usage, that 10 GB data pack could keep you set for awhile if you have access to wifi. We’d consider this one of the best pre paid international sim cards on the market.

#2 A Simple Data SIM Card for Worldwide Travel – Surfroam

Surfroam

Yay! No prepaid data packages, no contractual mumbo-jumbo, no running out of data right when you settle in for a long Netflix and poop session: Surfroam keeps it Pura Vida!

It’s data-only with coverage of 200+ countries – even Afghanistan and Yemen are covered! So, what’s the go?

Essentially, you pay €45 for the physical SIM card (which includes €25 credit) and then top-up as you go with pack options starting at €25 . You’re charged a pay-as-you-go rate per megabyte starting as low as €0.01/MB . So that’s way cheaper than the KeepGo data roaming sim card, right? Not quite…

Rates vary substantially by country so while this going to be a cheaper option across, say, Europe, it may not necessarily pan out that way in other places. That said, prices are still pretty cheap for most places and tend to beat out KeepGo.

As a final note, there is an eSIM (€30) available with the same data rates.

Ok, so ‘simple’ might be stretching it upon reflection, however, once you’re away, its streams ablaze! If you’re jet-setting and changing countries a lot, you will need to stay keyed in as to the rates .

Otherwise, the coverage significantly beats out KeepGo, and in many cases, Surfroam will end up being the cheapest international data SIM card you can purchase. It’s the simplest choice for staying connected pretty much anywhere in the world.

#3 The Cheap but Restrictive International Data SIM Card  – GigSky

GigSky

To be perfectly honest, trying to decode the GigSky international SIM card data plans does our head in which doesn’t bode well for its recommendation. It does, however, seemingly come out cheaper than KeepGo in a number of circumstances.

Based on their site, the GigSky data SIM card for world travel works for unlocked phones and devices that have eSIM support. This includes:

  • The iPhone XS and above
  • Apple iPad Cellular
  • Google Pixel 3 and above

There is also support for a number of further devices including those running Android 10.

To utilise GigSky’s service, you’ll need to buy the international SIM card for $9.99 . After the SIM is installed in your phone, you’ll need to download the GigSky app to set the SIM up for use.

Plans are purchased separately and divided amongst country-specific, region-specific (eg. North America, Europe, Asia Pacific), and global plans allowing you to tailor your international SIM card plan to your travels.

Prices vary by locale but noticeably come out cheaper than KeepGo throughout most scenarios.

Notably, a lot of regional data plans can net you 5 GB for 30 days for just $50 while global plans will give you 3 GB of data for 30 days for $60 .

If you meet the device requirements, this a comparatively cheap SIM card for data. However, coverage of countries is nowhere near that of Surfroam, it only offers data packages (no local calls), and the restrictions may not work for everyone and all device types.

Overall, it doesn’t get a strong recommendation considering the difficulty I had deciphering their site and exact terms, but it is worth scoping out for anyone looking for a cheaper option for an international data roaming SIM.

#4 The Best International SIM Card for Europe – Orange Holiday Europe

Orange Holiday Zen/Europe

Are you just doing a little banger holiday in Europe and need a physical SIM card for your travels? Orange has got you covered. Specifically:

  • Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card
  • Orange Holiday Zen SIM Card

The Orange Holiday Zen is for light usage or a short trip. It’s a straight prepaid SIM card for travellers in Europe and it couldn’t be simpler.

For $27.29 , you get 8 GB of data, 30 minutes of calls worldwide, 200 texts, all lasting for 14 days before it expires. The Holiday Zen covers 30 countries in Europe including all the heavy-hitters, but it certainly doesn’t cover all of Europe (my boy Serbia – forever underrepresented). Still, this makes it one of the best European SIM Cards for travellers.

The Orange Holiday Europe takes all of that and just upgrades it: 20 GB in data, 120 minutes, and 1000 texts for $44 . The same coverage of countries applies and it’s a 14-day expiry again.

Orange also partners with a bunch of networks around the world- even offering an Israeli sim card called partner. If you take a look around their website, you can find more far-flung networks than you expected!

Both cards are able to be topped up online for more credit.

Yeah, so I wouldn’t call ‘30 countries in Europe’ an internationally roaming SIM card, but it is a super simple choice for anyone just travelling to Europe for a holiday. It’ll keep you safe in an emergency thanks to that fact that it’s not a data only service. PLus: you’ll have a SIM ready from the moment you land!

Orange is a pretty major provider in France so you’ll have a consistent connection. There’s no constant checking of rates calculators either. It’s just a perfectly simple prepaid SIM card for any travellers heading to Europe.

Y’all want more? Another option to look at is getting an Airalo eSim instead.

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Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

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Some commonly asked questions about the world’s best travel SIM cards…

How do I activate my international SIM card?

Each international SIM comes with detailed instructions on how to set up and load your SIM. It’s always a good idea to get things set up before you leave home to avoid any mishaps.

What does international SIM mean?

An international SIM is a type of SIM card that will allow you to use your phone internationally by connecting to global carriers. Some of these SIMs will allow you to make calls as you normally would, while others only offer data plans.

What is the best SIM card for international travel?

Some of the best SIMs for international travel include OneSim , Nomad , KeepGo , and TravelSim .

Do international SIM cards expire?

Most of the SIMs on this list require you to recharge at least once a year, but in doing so all your data will remain usable.

will hatton working with a business partner

That depends on how you travel. If you’re adept at buying prepaid SIM cards locally when you hit the ground, then I wouldn’t worry.

However, for the people that an international SIM card suits the travelling style and needs of, then yes, definitely. I think if you’re that person, then you probably already know that you’re that person.

People looking for the all-round ol’ reliable, OneSim is the go-to choice of travel SIM cards. For those who want the best data SIM card they can use overseas, that choice is KeepGo .

Skip the lines and skip the painful errand days in a foreign city. Buy one of the best international SIM cards you can and have yourself connected before you even touchdown on the landing.

Want another kind of sim card? Check out the revolutionary new Nomad e-sim , an app-based sim card covering over 100 countries that can be organised before you leave home! If that’s not enough, there’s another new service from HolaFly which offers similar coverage and deals so check them both out and see which fits your needs best.

Maxwell Smart calls Agent 99 with a roaming SIM card installed in his shoe

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Best eSIM Card for Canadians traveling to the United States

One of the most common questions that I get as I travel around the world is “How do you stay connected and online with your phone when traveling outside of Canada?”.

The answer is

1) I have an unlocked iPhone and

2) in most places that I travel I used to purchase a local SIM card so that I could stay connected wherever I was. However, now the days of searching for sim card dealers is over. Now instead with eSIMs, I can buy them online and download them to my phone before I even leave for my trip! Having a physical sim card and dealing with switching them in and out of your phone is no longer required.

3) Specifically when traveling to the US as a Canadian I have been using an eSIM by Canadian company aloSIM . (Previously I had used a US SIM card from Roam Mobility. As of June 30th, 2020 Roam Mobility has closed down due to the pandemic.)

This year I have traveled to Alaska, Prague , and I road tripped from Nova Scotia to Boston all while using aloSIM eSIMs. As long as you download the eSIM for the regions you are visiting ahead of time and have them ready to activate at the start of your trip you should have no problems. Using aloSIM for multiple eSIMs was quite seamless for me and I found the data to be fast and didn’t drain quickly.

Also great news you do not need to be Canadian to use aloSIM. Anyone who can download the aloSIM app from their app store can use this great eSIM company and be connected in over 170 countries around the world.

Cailin holds an iphone showing the website for alosim a Canadian esim company

Why Should you buy an eSIM for your phone to travel with?

Buying eSIMs to travel with to various countries is the BEST because the minute your plane lands or you cross that border you have a connection. Otherwise you are left arriving in a new destination with no data, internet or connection and are needing to search for a place to buy one or you might end up being charged a large roaming fee by your cellular provider. Having an eSIM definitely beats the old way of jumping from wifi to wifi, from hotel to McDonald’s, Starbucks, etc. It also keeps you from bugging friends to share their personal hot spot.

An important note however, if you need SMS/MMS texting and phone calling then you can use your regular SIM card and your carrier will bill pay-per-use rates for each call or text. (Make sure you aren’t enrolled in a carrier travel plan, which charges you a daily flat rate for data, calling, and texting.) If you use WhatsApp, Skype, Facebook calling, etc then you can most likely get around needing that local sim card and your eSIM will be more than enough with all of the data you need.

a screenshot of the aloSIM app of three esims that have been activated

Alternative Options to eSIMs

If you do not get an eSIM before you travel abroad talk to your cell phone service provider and they can arrange a talk, text and data roaming plan for your trip. Whether your cell phone is with Bell, Rogers, Virgin, Telus, Koodo, Fido, Lucky Penny or one of the other Canadian cell phone service providers, they all have phone plans that you can pay extra for to stay connected when traveling south of the border.

On average Canadian cell phone companies charge $13 – $16 a day to use your phone with talk, text and data while in the United States or abroad. Those costs can add up especially when you are using a lot of data like I tend to do. This fee is also extra on top of the cell phone plan you already pay for. After all of that though the amount of data and speeds you are given can be limited as well. Using an eSIM from a company like aloSIM can save you a LOT of money with their US eSIMs starting at $4.95USD for 1gb of data over 7 days.

A much more affordable option no matter where you are based or where you are traveling to is with aloSIM. A Canadian based eSIM company that offers great deals on eSIMs for Canadians and others traveling to the US and around the world. In fact anyone around the world can use aloSIM and have access to cheap and affordable eSIMs that work in over 170 different countries.

Without a doubt in my mind aloSIM is the best eSIM company for Canadians traveling to the United States.  AloSIM is also one of the best esim providers on the market right now offering the best eSIM plans.

**You do need to have your phone unlocked to use an eSIM**

a screenshot of alosim in the iphone app store download alosim in the iphone app store Best eSIM Card for Canadians traveling to the United States

Where can you buy eSIM cards?

Once your phone is unlocked you can purchase an eSIM online. For aloSIM the best way to do it is to download their app from the app store or by visiting alosim.com .

How do aloSIM eSIM cards work?

Once you download the aloSIM app and signup for an aloSIM account, purchase the eSIM for the country or region that you require. Then select the amount of data that best suits you depending on the length of your trip, your typical data usage and needs. If you are unsure, do not worry as it is easy to always buy more data.

Next while on a strong internet connection install your eSIM. Once installed correctly you should see the eSIM now available in your phone settings under SIMs in the Cellular section. Do NOT activate your eSIM until right before your trip, or when you have already arrived on your trip. (Be sure to follow the instructions for  preparing your phone for international travel  to avoid roaming charges.) When activated the data only lasts for the time period in the package that was purchased and ends even if there is data left over.

For example if you buy 1GB for 7 days, the 7 days begins as soon as you activate the eSIM and runs out in the 7 days no matter if you have used all of the data or not. Once you buy an eSIM for a particular country or region you don’t need to buy or install it again to keep using it. You just need to top up the eSIM for that destination every time you travel there.

If you visit the aloSIM website at alosim.com/how-to-buy-esim-online they have a great step by step guide for installing and activating your eSIM.

a picture of two hands holding an iphone about to download an esim for the czech republic from alosim

How much are the eSIM plans with aloSIM?

The cost of buying eSIMs with aloSIM varies depending on your destination. AloSIM offers eSIMs for over 170 different countries around the world. On average the eSIMs cost about $4.50USD for 1gb of data for one week. Or you could pay up to $42.00USD for 20GB of data for 30 days. It really depends on where you are going and what your data usage is like. No matter what though it is extremely easy to buy more data directly in the app as needed. When you have less than 1GB left you will get a notification so that you top up again before you run out.

Using aloSIM you can’t go over on your usage either. You only use what you pay for which is nice so you don’t come home to a huge phone bill. If you run out of data you can just log on to their site or open the app while you have a connection and add more. You can also check the app at any time to see how much data you have remaining.

Where is there coverage for aloSIM?

You don’t need to worry about whether or not there will be cell coverage where you are traveling to in the US with aloSIM. Wherever  possible the aloSIM eSIMs use AT&T towers to give you the best connection. For elsewhere around the world aloSIM is also always working with the best cellular service providers to give you the best coverage possible.

If you have any questions or other suggestions about what is the best eSIM card for Canadians traveling to the United States please let me know!

Peggys Cove lighthouse - The Best SIM Card for Canadians traveling to the United States

Thanks to aloSIM for sponsoring my data when I travel to the US and around the world. All opinions and views expressed are my own on the Best eSIM Card for Canadians traveling to the United States. 

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14 comments.

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Thanks. I’ll look into it.

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Had many options. Mrsimcard BLOWS over priced roam out of the water. What the website lacks in prettiness they make up with functionality!

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Good to know you had success with them! From what I can tell on their site they actually charge more than Roam though?

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Bill Madill

Worst cell phone experience of my life. there coverage shows it works sometimes in your car, sometimes if you are standing outside, sometimes in your house and sometimes in a commercial building. I can tell you from experience that it doesn’t work in any of these places in central Florida. Who sells a cell service that works sometime??? Roammobility, that’s who.

Sorry you had that experience Bill. I have used them quite often myself in the Orlando area and haven’t have problems. They do provide a coverage map that you can easily see on their website. If you are having problems with it working inside or outside of buildings that to me sounds more like an issue with your phone rather then the sim card itself.

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I also had coverage issue, taveled to Pougkeepsie area in NY. The coverage map shows dark green color, but it didn’t connect to anywhere around that area with roam mobility SIM, (in fact, even in middle of Central Park, Manhattan, I had hard time) although my Koodo SIM (with the same iPhone SE) picked up T-Mobile and AT&T randomly. I have a feeling that Roam Mobility changed something during last several years, it used to connect to AT&T and T-Mobile, never showed “Roam Mobility” on top of the screen. (Now, either out of service area or if I am lucky, get Roam mobility connection)

I find that no matter what sim I use in NYC it always works poorly possibly because there are so many people smushed into such a small area and the systems are overloaded all the time? Also often when I have issues in areas where it should work fine I fully turn the phone off and on again and it seems to work.

' src=

Is there any cost to Canadian friends calling or texting me on the new US number? I assume it’ll be long distance?

Yes you would be right. UNLESS you have an iphone and they have and iphone too. Then you can just imessage and that goes through data so it is free.

' src=

I also had problems a couple years ago. Service in Central Florida was poor, and in a lot of cases I could not understand the person on the call. Hope reception has improved

I think coverage has improved but it also varies on which cell towers your phone reaches out to.

' src=

I came across your blog looking for a smart way to use my phone (as a phone and using mobile data) while traveling in Canada and the US. (I am traveling there from Europe.) Your descriptions sounds very good, but I did not understand if the Roam Mobility SIM can also be used for calling and the internet within Canadian borders. In other words: Would it be smart to used use a Roam Mobility SIM/plan instead of getting a Canadian SIM _and_ a US SIM?

Roam unfortunately doesn’t work in Canada. It’s only for the US.

I would get a T-Mobile plan once you land in the US? They have a “traveler” sim. Or Three UK works great in the US with roam like home. Then maybe you can pay a bit more for it to work in Canada too?

Sorry I’m not more help! Canadian cell providers kind of suck and aren’t cheap. Koodoo and Fido are the cheaper companies in Canada. So maybe check them out too?

' src=

One problem you can have with Roam Mobility is their coverage. I went on a road trip last summer in Montana and Wyoming and only discovered on the way that none of the cities or areas I was traveling in had coverage except Jackson WY. Best to consult their coverage map (below) before traveling.

https://roammobility.com/coverage

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Best eSIMs for travel of 2024

These eSIMs are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage

Best eSIM overall

  • Best for customizable plans
  • Best for easy installation
  • Best value for money
  • Best for security
  • Best for network coverage
  • Best for unlimited data
  • Best for global plans
  • Best for Europe
  • Best for data-only plans
  • eSIMs for international travel FAQs

1. Best eSIM overall 2. Best eSIM for customizable plans 3. Best eSIM for easy installation 4. Best eSIM for value for money 5. Best eSIM for security   6. Best eSIM for network coverage  7. Best eSIM for unlimited data 8. Best eSIM for global plans 9. Best eSIM for Europe   10. Best eSIM for data-only plans 11. eSIMs for international travel FAQs

eSIMs have gained a lot of traction in recent years, especially in international travel. Admit it, you do not like getting into huge queues to buy an eSIM just after you’ve landed at your dream location. You can now skip the queue with the best eSIM for international travel, with plans ranging from 3 days to as long as a year.

These eSIMs are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage. However, with so many providers offering eSIMs, which one should you purchase? I have done the hard yards to find and review the best eSIM you can get for international travel, regardless of whether you want to travel to Europe, the USA, Asia, Africa or Australia. So, make sure you read till the end to know everything you could ever need before purchasing your next eSIM.

What is an eSIM?  

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

eSIM cards are digital SIM cards already embedded in the mobile device, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. It is a small rewritable chip fixed inside your phone, which connects with an antenna to function as a SIM card. The antenna is nothing but a network selected by you. 

Since it is rewritable, you can change your operator with just a simple phone call. There’s no need to go through the hassle of purchasing a new SIM card and waiting for it to arrive in the mail. 

Actually, eSIMs have been around for quite some time now. You can find many devices that are compatible with eSIMs. But when iPhone decided to remove the good old SIM card slot and shift the device to being completely eSIM featured, this feature got its attention. The main reason eSIMs are being preferred is because of their ease of use and convenience. 

Another advantage of eSIM is that it saves space accommodated by the SIM card holder, leading to either smaller phones or larger batteries, both of which are interesting propositions. Not to mention, the enormous amount of plastic being used to make all these SIM cards will no longer be required. 

eSIMs could be pretty revolutionary as they can be used to enable 5G connectivity in almost anything we would want it to, preferably glasses or a fitness tracker, as it doesn’t take up as much space inside the device.  

While there’s no major difference between using an eSIM card and a physical SIM card, eSIMs could be a slight turnoff when you want to switch phones. That said, the benefits of eSIM certainly outweigh a few cons here and there.

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?  

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s dive into why it’s so beneficial for international travel. The best thing about them is that you can store as many as eight (sometimes even more) on your phone and activate the SIM when needed without having to pay additional roaming charges. 

Of course, if your current network operator provides free roaming service, there's no need to consider a travel-specific or local SIM from the place you're traveling to. But if that's not the case, it can be quite a task to find the right operator and negotiate with language barriers.

eSIMs are also generally more secure than physical SIMs since there’s no need to remove them in case you want to change your SIM card, so they practically can’t get lost. And if your phone gets lost or stolen, tracking it through the eSIM card is much easier since it cannot be removed from the device. 

Note that international roaming works the same way on physical and eSIMS. The only difference that sets the two apart is that while you can add only two physical SIMs at a time, you can conveniently purchase an eSIM from a local carrier of the place you are visiting without losing your old numbers. This is especially handy when you are visiting multiple countries. 

With eSIMs, switching SIMs is as easy as purchasing a plan online and activating it after completing the payment. If you travel frequently for business or any other purpose, switching contact numbers could be quite a frequent task. With eSIMs, you can shuffle between SIM cards as soon as you enter the airport or right when you leave the country.

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?  

Most phones manufactured after 2018 are compatible with eSIMs, except for a few exceptions depending on the location and carrier. IPhone XS, XS Max, and XR are among the first eSIM-compatible iPhones that came out in 2018. 

Follow these steps to see if your iOS is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked:

  • Go to Settings > General > About
  • Scroll down to find the Carrier Lock section
  • If your device is unlocked, it will show "No SIM restrictions" If that's not the case, you need to unlock your device first. 
  • If you have an iOS 15 or later, Scroll down to "Available SIM" and if you have earlier iOS versions, find "Digital SIM"
  • If your phone supports eSIMs, it will show a 15-digit IMEI number 

The following are the latest models that support eSIM: 

  • iPhone 12 Pro
  • iPhone 12 Mini
  • iPhone 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13 Pro
  • iPhone 13 Mini
  • iPhone 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone SE 3 (2022)
  • iPhone 14 Pro
  • iPhone 14 Plus
  • iPhone 14 Pro Max

You can also use eSIMs on the following iPads: 

  • iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068 onwards)
  • iPad Air (model A2123 onwards)
  • iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069 onwards)
  • iPad (model A2198 onwards)
  • IPad 10th generación (2022)
  • iPad Mini (model A2124 onwards)

For Android numbers, it is best to check with the manufacturer if your device is compatible with eSIM. This, too, depends on the model, place of manufacturing, and the carrier used for the Android device.  

Another way to check is by going to the settings > Network & Internet and tapping on the "eSIM cards". If you find a "Download a SIM instead?" option, your device is eSIM-compatible 

You can also check if your phone has an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number), which is the serial number that matches with the eSIM embedded in your device. 

  • Dial *#06# and press call
  • If your device is eSIM-compatible, you'll be able to view your EID number

Some popular Android phones that support eSIMs include: 

  • Samsung Galaxy S21 models
  • Samsung Galaxy S22 models
  • Samsung Galaxy Note 20
  • Samsung Galaxy Fold Series
  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Series
  • Samsung Galaxy S23 models
  • Google Pixel 7
  • Google Pixel 6
  • Google Pixel 4
  • Google Pixel Fold
  • Google Pixel 3 XL
  • Huawei P40 Series
  • Oppo Reno 5A
  • Oppo Find X5
  • Sony Xperia 1 V
  • Xiaomi 13 Series
  • Sony Xperia 10 III Lite
  • Motorola Edge+
  • Motorola Razr 2019

Note that this isn’t an exhaustive list — it’s only an indicative list of popular smartphones that support eSIMs. In case you do not find your phone year, check with your manufacturer. 

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Top 10 eSIM providers for international travel 

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Airhub is a huge online store from which you can buy eSIMs in over 190+ countries worldwide. It has a massive variety of eSIM plans that include data, local call minutes, SMS, and international call minutes. 

While most eSIM providers usually have around 3-5 plans per country, Airhub provides up to 15 plans to choose from for a single country which gives you the flexibility to select the plan that resonates best with your needs. Also, Airhub has truly managed to make some of the best partnerships with local companies to offer the cost-effective deal that it does. 

If you're going to hang in a country for multiple months, you can simply go for the monthly subscriptions. Some of these plans also include unlimited voice minutes and SMS - you truly get the best deal here. 

The majority of plans that you will find on the website are prepaid, with a few postpaid plans and a postpaid monthly subscription in a few countries, the most important one being the United States. However, it doesn't have strong coverage in Latin America. For example, I found them offering only a single plan in countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. Moreover, there are no plans for countries like Cuba, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Ecuador. 

The regional plans offer an attractive price proposition as well, with options available in APAC, Africa, North America, the Middle East, and Europe. We highly recommend the Europe plan if you're about to go on a Europe tour. Airhub covers up to 49 countries in the plans, with the plans starting at just $11 for a month with a 3GB data limit. We could also spot a few 1-year plans in Europe ranging from 10GB to 100GB for the year.  

When you open the Airhub app, there's not a lot going on like most other eSIM apps — the interface is clean and intuitive. After logging in, you will find a page that lets you select the country, with three tabs differentiating local eSIMs, regional eSIMs, and Monthly plans (note that the global package is included in the regional eSIM category). 

Concluding, Airhub stands out with its great plans, minimalist apps, and websites and ticks all the boxes of travelers and remote workers looking for an affordable and effective eSIM. 

Best eSIM for customizable plans

Airalo is easily one of the best eSIM providers for travelers looking for an affordable and reliable SIM card, which plans in more than 200 countries. The stand-out thing about Airalo is its great collaborations with local telco companies all over the world which makes it the cost leader that it is today. 

Keep in mind that this also means the cost of Airalo depends on the place you're traveling to, and the cost of data there — validity and data limit being the other two factors that affect its price.

It also offers 7 regional plans, including Latin America and Caribbean Islands — regions that aren’t well catered by other eSIM providers.

It also has a specific global plan that provides access to around 84 countries worldwide — perfect for international travelers. You can choose between 1GB to 20GB of data spread across 7 days to 180 days validity. 

To buy the eSIM, you simply have to go to the app, create an account, choose the place you are traveling to, the package of your choice, and then install the eSIM. After that, you’ll need to follow a simple eSIM activation procedure, and that’s it. The payment can be made through a credit card or Apple Pay. 

One major thing to look out for getting an Airalo eSIM is that most of them don't offer voice minutes — there's only a data plan. So if you're someone who makes a lot of voice calls throughout the day, you might want to look out for an alternative here. That said, you can always communicate via Internet calls when needed. 

Airalo has a loyalty feature where you get credit every time you purchase data from the service provider. Initially, you get a 5% Airalo credit for every purchase, which keeps increasing as you collect more and more credit. So, initially, if you spend $20 on a package, you get a $1 credit that you can use for future purchases. 

Best eSIM for easy installation

AloSIM is a Canada-based tech company that offers great prepaid data SIMs at affordable prices. One innovative feature of the app is its AloSIM data calculator that helps you find the estimated data that you will require depending on the things you use your internet for on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Once you have decided on the amount of data you need, you can head over to the eSIM area and select a plan to your liking.

The reason why this is so great is because it bears testimony to the brand's transparency and genuineness. Being able to calculate your daily requirements won't let you overspend on something you don't need. 

Another thing I love about AloSIM is that you get to see which partnering networks you're gonna be connected with before you purchase any package so that you can assure that you are connected to a reliable network. You can also check the speed availability in the region (3G, 4G, 5G, or LTE). This is something most eSIM providers do not offer.

Installing the eSIM is also easy with AloSIM. There are three ways in which you can do that:

1. Automatic installation — if you want to start using your plan straight away, you should go with this option. 

2. Scanning QR code — this option is available in almost all eSIM providers — you just have to scan the QR code to activate your network. 

3. Manual installation — You will have to go through a step-by-step instruction manual to adjust your settings and activate your eSIM. 

The prices at AloSIM are among the most reasonable I’ve seen. You can get the 5 GB for 30 days plan for as low as $16 in the US. That's a lot of difference compared to the plan your home SIM can provide you. Plus, data sharing is supported, so you can use your personal hotspot to connect to other devices or let a friend free ride with you. AloSIM also offers as many as 11 regional plans — one of the highest on our list. 

However, I couldn’t spot a regional plan for Africa or an extensive Asian plan. The Asian regional plan covers just five countries in Southeast Asia. Thus, it isn’t a great option if you’re traveling East.

Just like every data-only eSIM, you will not get a phone number with AloSIM. Also, there's no unlimited plan for you to rely on if you're a data junkie. Overall, AloSIM stands out with its transparency, auto-installation feature, and affordable price. 

Best eSIM for value for money

Nomad eSIM is a great option if you’re on short trips and need a travel eSIM that doesn't cost you a fortune. It is well-known for its short-duration plans of 7 and 15 days. Its offerings are divided into regional plans and individual country plans. 

You can also purchase an unlimited data plan in selected individual countries, such as the UK, something that isn’t available with regional plans. With Nomad, you can purchase one GB of data for as low as $1.30 (in Asia and the Americas).

It has an incredible value proposition in North America, Asia, and Europe. However, when it comes to Latin America, you can definitely find cheaper options. For example, 1GB of data with a 7-day validity costs $9 on Nomad. However, the same plan is available at $6.5 on Airalo, with both of them covering the same three counties —Canada, USA, and Mexico,

What we love about this provider is that it doesn't charge you any one-time connection fee or even a fee for the SIM card itself. There's no hidden cost, and you don't have to worry about enormous roaming costs as well. Just pay for the upfront amount of the package, and you’re good to go.

There are eight regional plans - APAC, Nordic, Europe, SEA - Oceania, Global, North America, Africa, and Middle East. Regional plans allow you to buy the plan once and use it in a specific group of countries - no need to buy a new eSIM for every country you travel to. For example, if you’re visiting France, Germany, and Italy, simply get the Europe regional plan. You’ll not need to buy a separate eSIM in each country.

The global plan is decent, with an option to purchase a global e-Sim for either 110 countries or 140 countries. The 110-country plan starts at $25/GB (validity of 7 days), while the 140-country plan starts at $19/GB for the same validity period.

Recently, Nomad added an SMS plan available in selected countries like Canada, the United States, and the UK. I found the plan to be pretty reasonable, too, starting at 100 texts for $4. 

What's more, Nomad has one of the most user-friendly apps. You can easily find all the plans, and the interface is very clean. You can also track your data usage on the go and add more data if you seem to be outrunning your current limit. 

If you're not an expert at understanding chunky instructions, you'll love its setup process that takes you through the app step by step and even includes pictures to clearly illustrate what you need to do. 

If there's still something you need help understanding, there's built-in 24/7 message support, and the response time is quick and reliable. It doesn't have a live chat feature like most of the peers.

Concluding, Nomad is a solid option for frequent travelers with its short-term packages at affordable prices and easy-to-set-up interface. With the commendable user-friendliness of this provider’s app and reliable customer support, it’s one of the best travel eSIMs. 

Best eSIM for security

5. instabridge.

Instabridge has been around for a while, and its eSIM services are truly one to consider if you are looking for a safe and seamless internet connection. This is especially recommended if you're going to stay in one place for a long time — you can find plans that last up to a year.

It is the #1 app on iPhone for global internet access, and with access to more than 190 countries and over 200 million app downloads, you can guess that it's a hot pick among travelers.  However, you do not get any call minutes or SMS facility with Instabridge’s eSIM. Thus, you’ve to rely on Internet-based voice calls and texts — certainly not a deal-breaker.

If you are tight on budget but want to purchase a plan, you can score mobile data packages by watching ads on the app. The collection won't be too grand, of course, but it'll get you a decent data pack if you spend your free time on the app. 

The app in itself is pretty modern and intuitive. You can simply select the country you’re traveling to and choose the amount of data you need. Next, select the duration — one-time, monthly, or yearly. You’re done — simply make the payment and enjoy your internet.

Note that the website on the desktop version doesn't show all the local plans, so it's important to check the plans on the app if you don't find a suitable plan for you. You can pick between subscriptions and one-off plans depending on your needs. The website typically doesn’t show data plans for more than 30 days.

Customer support isn't always the fastest — it can take a few hours to get a reply if you're stuck in the middle of something. But you can look out for the FAQs and manuals to help you out, and the app is easy to use, too. So there are chances that you might not even need customer support.  

You can purchase multiple plans with the same eSIM, so there's no need to collect a hefty number of eSIMs if you're traveling to multiple places. For example, if you're going to visit USA, Germany, and France over the holidays, you can just purchase a plan for each of these places and track the data usage of each of these packages through the app. 

Instabridge has a strong commitment to bringing the internet to everyone. For the same, it has decided to give away 1GB of data to someone in a developing nation for every 1 GB of data you purchase.

Concluding, Instabridge is a solid provider of data-only plans, a must-have for users who value security over anything.

Best eSIM for network coverage

BNESIM offers mobile data contracts in over 170 countries —greater than most providers in our list, like Nomad. You can rest assured that no matter which country you are traveling to, you will definitely find a plan or more with BNESIM. 

Where this provider wins against the competition is its “pay-as-you-go” plans. These are plans with no expiration date. For example, if you purchase the 1GB USA data plan for $6.73, you can use the plan as long as you do not exhaust the entire data without any time restriction. This is particularly helpful for users that use minimal data and end up wasting their data by the end of the plan. 

What I like about BNESIM is its diverse regional plans. It currently offers Regional plans in Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania, Middle East, and Africa. Apart from this, there are two unlimited data regional plans - something other providers don’t offer. 

1. BNESIM Infinity Europe

2. BNESIM Infinity Asia

For example, the Infinity Aisa plan covers 28 countries with options to purchase one-time, daily, and monthly plans. I found the “Daily Plan’ really useful in the modern data usage context. It offers a certain data limit for each day of the plan. For example, the 1GB daily data Asia plan costs just $8.85 — a steal, in my opinion.

I also found an extensive “Support” section on its website with guides on installing eSIMs on various devices, such as iPhone, iPad, and Android phones. Each of these guides includes pictures that make your job easier. Just like Airalo, BNESIM also partners with local networks to provide reliable bandwidth, which makes the network stronger in some areas.

However, if you’re looking for a longer-duration plan, BNESIM doesn’t get the job done. With a maximum validity of 30 days, their plans primarily focus on short-duration plans. Another weird thing about BNESIM is its “auto-renewal” feature — your plan will be auto-renewed at the end of the term. You’ll have to cancel the plan manually on its website or app.

All in all, BNESIM is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a flexible and cost-effective global roaming solution for frequent travel. 

Best eSIM for unlimited data

Holafly eSIM cards are among the few options offering unlimited data plans — you can send as many videos and photos with your family without worrying about the data limit. In the few countries that it doesn't give unlimited data, it offers higher data limits than most other providers. 

In terms of duration, too, there's great flexibility. You can get plans that last 5, 10, 15, 20, 60, and 90 days. In short, there will always be a plan close to the number of days you're traveling for in about 160 countries that Holafly caters to.

On the price front, Holafly is a little high-end, but it's worth the unlimited data and stress-free traveling it offers. For example, its 5-day unlimited data plan for the USA costs $19. It also offers regional plans. However, I found it tough to locate these plans on its website, as there’s no dedicated “Regional Plans” section as in some other websites like Nomad and Airhub.

Brands like Airalo are significantly cheaper than Holafly, but you will have to get top-up plans if you exhaust your data mid-journey, which can be troublesome if you travel alone and don't have anyone to provide you hotspot in the meanwhile. 

Installing the eSIM is also a breeze with Holafly. Simply scan the QR code you receive after purchasing a plan and follow the prompts. You will be guided through each step of the process, and the payment can be made through various portals like a credit card, debit card, PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay. You can also use a code for manual installation if you don't want to scan the QR code. 

Holafly‘s customer support is one of the best in the market. You can expect a reply from them within less than a minute of entering your query. With language support in English, German, French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish, you can easily access the 24/7 support via WhatsApp or chat. On top of that, there's a frequently asked questions section that will solve most of your queries regarding the installation of the eSIM. 

However, if you plan to buy a single Holafly eSIM for your family, thinking that the unlimited data plan will do the trick, beware. Holafly eSIM doesn't allow data sharing with other devices as of now. 

While Holafly has great data plans, it doesn't include calls with all plans or SMS service. Currently, you can make calls up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes in Europe, Spain, France, Italy, and Germany. However, I didn’t find this off-putting due to the sheer non-functionality of SMS and calls these days. You can always make calls or send texts through Holafly’s unlimited Internet (WhatsApp, Skype, or other apps).   Use code TECHRADAR to get 5% off.

Best eSIM for global plans

8. globalesim.

GlobaleSIM provides global and local data plans for travelers and tourists in more than 150 countries, and you get extendable coverage with over 400 network carriers. It was among the first providers of eSIM when it first launched in 2016.

There are four broad plans that GlobaleSIM offers:

1. Most Popular Plan - available in 63 countries

2. Most Popular+ Plan - available in 93 countries

3. Special Plan - available in 115 countries

4. Special + Plan - available in 143 countries

For example, its “Most Popular Plan” starts at $3.00 for 500MB of data for 5 days. You also get the option of adding call minutes to your plan and selecting either a US, a UK, or a Canadian number. As there are several countries being covered under a single plan, you obviously cannot expect to get a local number to the place you're visiting, and since there's no roaming charge, a US, UK, or Canadian number isn't that bad, too, after all.

Many eSIM providers ask you to create an account before purchasing, but this one doesn't. You just have to fill out the required information, like your name, surname, and email address, and you're done. You can complete your payment via either PayPal or a credit card.  

However, I couldn’t find many single-country plans on GlobaleSIM. Even for a popular destination like the US, you’ll have to get a bundled plan which includes both the US and Canada. Moreover, despite being in the market for so long, it's a little disappointing that the provider doesn't have an application of its own, so you'll have to purchase the eSIM directly from the website. 

Unlike most other providers in the market, GlobaleSIM doesn't have chat support, the only way that you can connect to them is through emails, and the response time isn't as fast as chat support either. 

At first, you won't even find customer service or a way to get in touch with them on the front page of the website or while skimming through plans. You will have to go all the way down the page to find it. Simply put, the customer support is disappointing. 

All in all, GlobaleSIM is a great eSIM to consider if you're looking for a global plan that's easy to set up and purchase.  

Best eSIM for Europe

9. holiday esim.

Holiday eSIM is the best-prepaid service provider if you're traveling to Europe, with robust connections in every European country for high-speed data.  

What I like the most about this provider is that, unlike others, you get a French number with the eSIM. Its most popular plan includes unlimited calls and texts in Europe, 120 minutes of worldwide calling, and 1,000 texts. That's more than enough proposition for whatever your needs are. But of course, if all you are looking for is a data eSIM, you can also purchase the data-only packages it offers. 

The Orange holiday app is user-friendly and doesn't require any registration prior to installing the eSIM. All you have to do is install the eSIM, and the provider will automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network provider in that area.  

Costing around $44.10 for 10GB of data with a validity of 14 days, you might argue that this isn't a cheap option. However, if you're looking to have amazing internet no matter which European street you are wandering on, this is worth the penny it costs.

Besides the European plan, there's also a competent data-only global plan with 6GB of data with a 15-day validity. What’s more — you can share your data as a hotspot, so if you want to work on your laptop while away, it won't be a problem. 

However, it doesn’t offer a lot of plan options. Thus, you do not have much flexibility, either in terms of the validity period or data limits. Moreover, I did not like the website interface as much as some other providers on our list. Finding your destination country is difficult — you’ll have to choose from a long list of options. Even when you do, you’ll find “Regional” and “Global” plans in every country. This essentially means that Holiday eSIM does not offer as many individual country plans. 

In conclusion, if you value your network connection more than your product's budget-friendliness, you should consider this for your European trip. While we're not trying to take away that this provider's plans will cost you more than the local plan you can buy from a local provider, there are also a few cheaper options that might work for you if your internet usage isn't a lot. 

Best eSIM for data-only plans

10. flexiroam.

eSIMs are an important part of Flexiroam's wide line of products, and it's one of the best data-only eSIM lines out there. You get access to more than 500 mobile networks worldwide through its partnership with Jersey Telecom, with multiple networks in a single place, meaning you are never limited to just one network with this one. 

When traveling, the eSIM automatically connects itself to the strongest network connection in that area for reliable and strong coverage no matter where you go.  If you still don't feel content with the connected network, you can manually switch to the provider of your choice and use it if you find that more comfortable. 

Most providers like Airalo and BNESIM work with one single provider in one area, and it’s possible that the local provider might not be the best for the area you're visiting. This is never the issue with Flexiroam.

There are more than 700 eSIM plans to choose from. However, these plans aren’t as neatly categorized as some other providers. You’ll have to select from a long drop-down list when looking for individual country plans. Its regional plans are a mixed bag of chocolates. While there are two unique regional plans - Greater Europe and Greater China, I couldn’t find a regional plan for Asia that is offered by almost every other competitor. If you’re on an Asian trip, you’ll want to look at some other eSIMs on our list.

Having said that, Flexiroam is among the few providers that include plans for less than 7 days, and unlike Holafly, it allows data sharing through both tethering and Hotspot. So if you're traveling in a group, you can just buy a single pack and share it with your entire group.

Being a data-only eSIM, you don't get a phone number to call in case there's a network coverage issue and your internet stops working. This can usually be a problem if you're traveling to remote places.

Concluding, Flexiroam is definitely worth your bucks if you are looking for a data-only eSIM for its affordability and wider network coverage.  

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

How to choose the best esim for international travel .

While all the providers have something or the other to offer,  it's important to know the factors that make an eSIM the best among them. 

1. The place that you are traveling to 

It's important to check the network coverage of an eSIM in the place you're visiting. eSIM providers often offer amazing coverage in particular countries but mediocre performance in others. This is because eSIMs collaborate or partner with local service providers in different countries to enhance network coverage. So make sure that you check the service of the local provider that's accessible to you and select the eSIM provider that has coverage to the place you're traveling to. 

Depending on the number of places you are going to visit, you can select local, regional, and global eSIMs. Here's how they differ:

  • Local eSIM — you should go for this eSIM if you're traveling to just one country. For example, if you're traveling to Paris, you can get a local France eSIM. 
  • Regional eSIM — This is a perfect option if you're going to travel to a couple of countries within the same region. Let’s say you're planning a Europe trip; in that case, instead of buying a local SIM for each country, it’s a lot more convenient to get a regional eSIM that will work on all the countries in Europe you're visiting. 
  • Global eSIM — global eSIM allows you to connect several countries all over the world, which is perfect if you're going to travel worldwide or counties that are in different regions.  

2. How much data will you need?

If your data requirements are ambitious, you should preferably look for a cheap eSIM or one that provides unlimited data. On the other hand, if your data needs aren't too demanding, but you need internet in remote places, you might have to shell out a bit more for quality internet. To get an idea of how much data different apps use up, have a look at this: 

  • Google Maps: 5MB per hour
  • Social Media: 50MB per hour
  • Internet Browsing: 50MB per hour
  • Online Gaming: 70+MB per hour
  • Streaming Music: 100MB per hour
  • SD Video: 1GB per hour
  • HD Video: 4GB per hour
  • 4K Video: 7GB per hour

3. How long will you be abroad?

All eSIM providers have different validity options — you can choose between 7, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90 days plans, and so on. Find a plan with a validity period that outlines how long you're going to be using the eSIM. 

Some eSIM providers provide plans shorter than 7 days; look out for them if you're going to be away for the weekend. On the other hand, if your data usage is moderate, but you are traveling for longer periods, an unlimited plan might be the best for you. 

How do eSIM work?  

An eSIM card or embedded SIM card is a chip in your phone that lets you connect to a network by simply downloading an eSIM profile and activating it without having to swap the SIM card physically. 

eSIMs function similarly to physical cards — the only difference is that the card, instead of being inserted into the devices, can now be downloaded through an app and activated by scanning a QR code or following the steps provided in the manual. 

It is very easy to install an eSIM into the devices that are compatible with it. You can use multiple operators simultaneously and add several data plans according to your needs, as there's no physical space required to limit the number. 

You just have to change the profile to switch between one eSIM to another. This way, you can find the network in another eSIM if one SIM doesn't have a network. You can even have one SIM each for business and personal purposes.  

Since eSIMs can be updated electronically, providers in the US and UK are using eSIMs for the Internet of Things, adding a mobile network to almost anything that could use one, like cars and traffic lights.

While all the latest Apple devices are eSIM-compatible, most Android devices are also catching up. For example, the new Motorola Razr doesn't have a physical SIM card slot and only supports eSIM. Google Pixel phones and other Android devices, including laptops and tablets, have started providing eSIMs too. 

If you have already set up eSIM Carrier Activation, follow these steps to activate your SIM:

  • On turning on your phone, you will find a notification appearing that says "Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed", tap on it.
  • If it doesn't pop up right away, In the Settings app, tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
  • You will find a "Continue" at the bottom of the screen. After that, the plan must have been activated. 
  • Make a call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity. 
  • If you're unable to make the call, contact your carrier. If the plan you activated replaces the plan on your physical SIM, your eSIM has been activated. Now remove your physical SIM. Then restart your iPhone.

After this, your eSIM will actively run on your phone, and you can use it along with your physical SIM cards too. This will especially be appreciated by those who don't like to give away their phone numbers when traveling abroad. 

Can I use more than one eSIM provider when traveling abroad? 

Yes, you can use more than one eSIM, depending on whether you use Android or iOS. When traveling, you’d want to use at least two SIMs simultaneously so that you don't lose touch with the older SIM contact when using the new local SIM. 

iPhones can store up to 5-10 eSIMs on the device, depending on the exact model. For example, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 Mini allow you to use two eSIMs simultaneously. On the flip side, you can use only one eSIM with iPhone 12 models, iPhone 11 models, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.

Similarly, Androids can also store 5-7 eSIMs on the device. However, you can only activate and use one eSIM at a time. 

This makes your work a lot easier. Suppose you’re traveling to Asia and Europe within a short span of time; you can purchase two eSIMs on your device. Simply activate the eSIM once you transition from one destination to another. This is more convenient compared to traditional SIMs, where you would have had to physically purchase a SIM at every destination you visit.

Traditional phones generally feature a maximum of 2 SIM cards in devices with dual SIM slots. In devices like iPhones that usually don't have a dual SIM feature, you will have to get a student device if you wish to use more than one SIM at once. 

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

Devices like iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later support eSIM. And recently, it completely ditched the physical SIM card slot in all the US models of iPhone 14. While other countries still have the SIM card slot, Apple has made it clear that it will soon completely get rid of the physical SIM card.  

Note that Apple’s eSIM feature is not yet available in mainland China and a few parts of Hong Kong and Macao. These countries are still fully dependent on physical SIMs.  

Setting up and activating an eSIM is super easy if you follow the instructions below:

  • On your iOS device, follow Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If this doesn't work, try Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
  • Click on the “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” option. At this point, remember that both iPhones have to be on iOS 16 for this to work.
  • You will find instructions on the old model to help you through the process. Either tap the transfer button or enter the verification code on the older phone, which will be sent to the new iPhone. 
  • Once you transfer the eSIM to the newer iPhone, it is deactivated from your old device, and your carrier will send you a notification to complete the setup on your new iPhone.

QR code support:

  • If your carrier has issued you a QR code, you can simply select “Use QR Code” while setting up the new iPhone.
  • You can find the “Use QR Code” option under Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM. 

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?  

eSIM card is a recently developed digital version of a physical SIM card that solves most problems faced while using a physical SIM card. While the functionality of both the SIMs has no difference, eSIM has an almost negligible chance of getting damaged, and since they cannot be physically detached from the device, it is impossible to lose them. 

If your device gets stolen, the thief will first throw out your SIM card because the device can be easily tracked through its SIM card. With eSIMs, this option just isn't there, so you can easily locate your device if it's ever stolen or lost. 

Also, eSIM frees up the space that a SIM card blocks. This space can be used to better optimize the device and leave less room for dust to enter. It also makes it better for devices like smartwatches to have an eSIM. 

On the other hand, eSIMs aren't as widely recognized yet, and physical SIM cards are supported on all devices. If your device doesn't support it, you'll have to get another one to switch to eSIMs.  

Plus, if you want to change your device, it is a lot more convenient to just place your SIM card in a different device, and just the day started. The same thing goes for a situation when you want to transfer contacts that are saved in your SIM card. 

eSIMs store data on the cloud. You can simply download it when needed. This way, your data remains safe and doesn't use up any storage on your device. 

Finally, both eSIMs and physical SIM cards have benefits of their own, and the better option definitely depends on personal preference, but objectively, eSIM is definitely the better option.  

Final verdict 

eSIMs have, undoubtedly, made traveling much easier. With affordable plans, excellent connections, and various validity options to choose from, eSIMs are the future of telecommunication. 

The only question is — which eSIM should you purchase? If you do not require voice call minutes (which I believe most wouldn’t), Airalo is your best bet. It has a lot of plan options to choose from, with validities as long as 180 days. It offers affordable local plans in as many as 200 countries, besides 7 regional plans and a value-for-money global plan. And since it partners with local network providers, you can rest assured of seamless connectivity as well. 

If you do want to make voice calls and send text messages, Airhub should be your go-to option. It offers plans in more than 190 countries, with more than 15 plans to select from in most countries. Like Airalo, it is also a value-for-money proposition and wouldn’t cost you a fortune. 

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Krishi covers buying guides and how-to's related to software, online tools, and tech products here at TechRadar. Over at Tom's Guide, he writes exclusively on VPN services. You can also find his work on Techopedia and The Tech Report. As a tech fanatic, Krishi also loves writing about the latest happenings in the world of cybersecurity, AI, and software.

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eSIM for Alaska

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COMMENTS

  1. Getting a prepaid SIM for data in the US as a tourist : r/travel

    Straight Talk's Unlimited Data plan costs $55 (plus sales tax, which varies by state). With it you also get unlimited talk and SMS. Unless you plan to remain in a city while visiting the US, choose a Straight Talk SIM card connected with the AT&T network for better overall coverage.

  2. Best tourist sim for USA? : r/travel

    r/travel is a community about exploring the world. Your pictures, questions, stories, or any good content is welcome. Clickbait, spam, memes, ads/selling/buying, brochures, classifieds, surveys or self-promotion will be removed.

  3. Best sim for travel to USA : r/TravelHacks

    4. DazPPC. • 6 mo. ago • Edited 6 mo. ago. Buying a Sim card from a store is quite expensive in the US. I'd recommend an eSim, probably the Airalo ones which I've used plenty of times without issues. 3GB will cost you about $11 USD and you won't require a physical sim card.

  4. Best SIM card for travelling in the US? : r/PersonalFinanceCanada

    For the US specifically, use T-Mobile's eSIM app or buy a SIM when you land. Pretty much everywhere else in the world if not a stopover, buy a local SIM. Thank you!! Most airports will have a vending machine with SIM cards for cheap. Cheers! I used to keep a T-Mobile pre-paid sim when I travelled.

  5. Getting a US SIM card for a month : r/travel

    Getting a US SIM card for a month. Hey all (Scott here), I'm planning to visit the US starting tomorrow, and it will be my longest stay there, being close to a month. In past trips, which were shorter, I've accepted I'd be going offline when I didn't have wifi, but for a whole month, I'd like to stay connected if possible.

  6. USA E-SIM vs Prepaid Sim Card : r/travel

    The more meaningful difference in experience is MVNO/roaming SIM vs local provider SIM. MVNO and roaming connections have to routed back to the middleman company's servers, which can make the network seem slower if the servers are in another continent. By default, latency will be higher. Battery life will take a hit as well because the modem ...

  7. Best SIM card service to travel in US : r/travel

    You can go to BestBuy or Target store. At the electronic department, they sell prepaid sim cards. r/travel. · 13. 838 · 615 comments. r/travel. 1 · 4. r/personalfinance.

  8. Buying a Prepaid 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.

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

    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. Read more below. Best ...

  10. The Best Prepaid SIM Card Data Plans For USA Travel

    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. Prices For Unlimited Data (Check Holafly for details) 5 Days: $19. 10 Days: $34.

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

    Nomad has now some of the cheapest e-sim card plans for traveling to the United States in 2024. Here are the Nomad e-sim card plans for the USA: 1 GB data for 7 days = $6 USD. 3 GB data for 30 days = $9 USD. 5 GB data for 30 days = $14 USD. 10 GB data for 30 days = $13.5 USD. 20 GB data for 30 days = $24 USD.

  12. Choosing the Best Prepaid SIM Card for USA Travel in 2024!

    You can always consider the USA and Mexico data-only plan which starts at $5.90 for 1GB (seven days). Monthly packages of 3GB, 5GB, 10 GB, and 20 GB are also available. Do bear in mind that because the e-Sim offers data-only packages, you won't be able to make international voice calls or send SMS messages.

  13. Best Tourist Sim Cards in USA in 2024

    USA Sim Card Prices. A Tourist Sim Card in USA costs $50 USD in March 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.

  14. Best Prepaid SIM Card For USA Tourists with Data

    LycaMobile SIM with 4GB Data. If you don't need a large data allowance but plan to text and call a lot while travelling then the LycaMobile SIM with 4GB data might be the best SIM card for USA travel for you. Also utilising the T-Mobile network, they offer 4GB of 4G data and unlimited calls and texts to over 65+ countries.

  15. Advice on Cell Service / Sim Card for trip to Rome : r/ItalyTravel

    Europes very easy to travel around, English is widely spoken especially in capital city's and especially phone stores, even if not sign language is fairly easy to convey I need a sim card. Also get yr kid to download Google translate+ Italian, u can speak/communicate through it.

  16. Best Prepaid SIM Card for USA Travel in 2024

    The table below demonstrates that choosing the Tello unlimited data plan would save you $600 per year compared to buying an unlimited data plan from T-Mobile directly. T-Mobile. T-Mobile coverage at a fraction of the cost. See at Tello. See at Mint Mobile. *$45 for 3 Months.

  17. SIM Cards in the United States: The Best Prepaid Plans

    If you want to buy the best SIM card in the United States, I recommend going with AT&T, T-Mobile, Google Fi, Metro by T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, or Ultra Mobile. They offer the best value, options, and quality compared to the competition. AT&T has the best nationwide coverage, especially on 3G.

  18. 5 Best SIM Cards for Traveling to USA in 2024

    Best SIM Cards for Traveling to USA. 1. Google Fi SIM Card Kit. Google Fi is an excellent choice for travelers to the USA. It offers a flexible data plan that allows you to pay only for the data ...

  19. The Best International SIM Cards For Travel

    If you need less data and want to save a little money, check out the Orange Holiday Zen SIM and the Orange Holiday Zen eSIM —both are great all-around options for European data because you still get a solid amount of data for a reasonable price. Both plans also include worldwide calls and texts. Price: $29.90.

  20. 9 BEST International SIM Cards For Travel (2024 Update)

    OneSimCard Universal ($29.95) - Coverage of over 200 countries but with a more limited data service (50+) countries. OneSimCard Expedition ($34.95) - Offers much the same coverage as the OneSim Universal travel SIM but with way more data coverage. It's the choice for the explorers.

  21. Best SIM cards for travelling in the US

    Best SIM cards for travelling in the US. We've put together the best SIM cards and plans for Aussies wanting to stay connected on their trip to the US. - Top pick -. Plans from $20/mth. Local data from 25GB. Add 4GB roaming data for $20 with 1-year expiry. felix 25GB Mobile Plan. Min total cost $20. whistleOut Exclusive: Switch to felix with $5 ...

  22. Best eSIM Card for Canadians traveling to the United States

    A Canadian based eSIM company that offers great deals on eSIMs for Canadians and others traveling to the US and around the world. In fact anyone around the world can use aloSIM and have access to cheap and affordable eSIMs that work in over 170 different countries. Without a doubt in my mind aloSIM is the best eSIM company for Canadians ...

  23. Best eSIMs for travel of 2024

    With Nomad, you can purchase one GB of data for as low as $1.30 (in Asia and the Americas). It has an incredible value proposition in North America, Asia, and Europe. However, when it comes to ...

  24. The Best eSIM for Alaska Travel in 2024

    The Best eSIM for Alaska Travel in 2024 ... These digital SIM cards have been a game-changer, especially when traveling to remote places like Alaska. I've done the legwork to find the best eSIM options for Alaska, so you don't have to. ... Airalo offers an eSIM called eSIM United States starting at $4.5 USD. It's a game-changer for ...