best esim for travel usa

What are you looking for?

5 best usa esims for travel [tried + tested] 2024 guide].

When it comes to traveling savvy, eSIMS are my new favorite recommendation.

After years of stressing over finding a local sim *every* time I entered a new county (frustrating when you’re doing a lot of countries in one time period!), I no longer have to worry because of the convenience of eSIMS.

Now that there are SO many eSIMS on offer, it can be a little overwhelming. However, because there is so much competition, the quality and price have gotten better overall.

When in the USA, data can be quite restrictive, but these eSIMS will help make your travels throughout the USA a lot easier.

My current network in the UK (O2) does provide me with some data in the USA (as part of my monthly plan), but I cannot hotspot that data to my laptop, which is imperative to me running an online business.

So let’s have a look at what eSIMS are on offer for the USA!

In this guide I’m going to take you through:

What an eSIM is exactly
The advantages of eSIMs
The best eSIMs for the USA

Let’s get started …

Travellerspoint

What is an eSIM?

We’ve all heard of a traditional SIM card, which has been around for decades and have helped immensely when traveling somewhere new.

However these had their own limitations, such as higher costs and less flexibility.

This is where the new digital eSIM comes in, which are essentially an upgrade in various ways.

They act the same way as a usual SIM card, however everything is stored electronically inside your phone (no external chip needs to be removed or added).

Essentially this means that you can immediately swap to a different mobile phone provider as soon as you arrive in a new country and get a signal, instead of having to manually find a new SIM and install it.

There are also many other benefits to using an eSIM in the USA, such as having low costs and being more versatile (we’ll explore these benefits later in this guide).

What phones are compatible with eSIMs?

iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
iPhone SE (2020, 2022)
Apple watch series 3, 4, 5 and 6
Apple watch SE
All iPads with 4G connectivity that have come out since 2018 support eSIM:
iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068, from 2020)
iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069, from 2020)
iPad Air (model A2123, from 2019)
iPad (model A2198, from 2019)
iPad Mini (model A2124, from 2019)
Galaxy S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
Galaxy Note 20, 20+, 20 Ultra
Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3
Galaxy Z Flip, Flip 3
Samsung Watch (through Samsung wearable application)
The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G is not compatible with eSIM.
Google Pixel 2 (only phones bought with Google Fi service), 2 XL
Google Pixel 3 (not including phones bought in Australia, Taiwan or Japan. Phones bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi don't work with eSIM), 3a (not including phones bought in Japan or with Verizon service), 3a XL, 3 XL
Google Pixel
Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL
Google Pixel 5, 51
Google Pixel 6, 6 plus

Other ESIM Compatible Devices

Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro (The Huawei P40+ is not compatible with an eSIM)
Oppo Find X5, X5 Pro, X3 Pro
Oppo Reno 5A, Reno 6 Pro 5G
Sony Xperia 10 IV, 10 III Lite
Honor Magic 4 Pro
Fairphone 4
Motorola Razr 2019
Nuu Mobile X5
Rakuten Mini
Microsoft Surface Duo

So to summarize, pretty much all phones can work with an eSIM.

There’s a good chance they can also work with multiple eSIMs at the same time too (which brings even more benefits), however you’ll want to do some independent research on the type of phone you have before.

If your current phone isn’t on this list, then most likely it will not be compatible with an eSIM.

Can I use my current mobile provider's international data plan?

You’ll find plenty of existing operators that allow you to use their own international plan in the USA.

Also known as Roaming, they allow you to connect to the internet without you having to physically change your SIM card.

The major downside to this is that they typically incur high charges for browsing, where you can easily spend over $15-25 a day if you’re not careful! (can be even more if you will watch videos or do any other activities that require heavy bandwidth usage).

If you’ll be working whilst traveling, then this won’t be ideal in either the short or long term, unless you don’t mind spending so much.

The other issue is that you may not have a good, consistent internet connection, and may find it drops down to 3G at times.

There’s also a cap too on your internet speed, especially if you’re using it frequently (where it can end up taking a while just to do a simple Google search).

Whenever I use O2 abroad, I am capped at around 25 GB and they will throttle my speed if I’m using it a lot.

They will also charge me more if I hotspot my connection to another device.

Advantages of eSIMs when traveling the USA

Lower Costs than Traditional SIMs - By far the biggest advantage of using an eSIM is that it is actually quite cheap. Whilst you would think it might be more (given it’s all electronically stored), the costs work out less. This is mainly due to you only needing just one eSIM for multiple countries , whilst you’d otherwise need to keep buying a new physical SIM card every time you travel to a new country. The other reason is that you won’t be paying for roaming internet fees abroad, whilst enjoying an overall better connection.
You Can Keep Your Own Number - This is another great reason you’ll want to use an eSIM, as you’ll be able to keep your own number and not have to keep re-adding existing contacts to your new sim. This is also important if you’re heading away for a long time (over 6-12 months), since some mobile providers can cancel your number if they see you aren’t using it or are not continuing to pay their usual monthly fees.
Quality and Consistent Internet Connection - As we’ve already mentioned, you’ll be connecting to local internet networks when using an eSIM. This means you’ll be getting the very best connection possible , instead of using an unstable roaming connection from your provider abroad. You’ll find this is also the case when heading to more remote areas of the USA, where there’s a good chance your roaming will have no signal.
Very Quick and Convenient - Usually once you’ve arrived after a long flight, you’ll either be tired or want to start exploring immediately. With an eSIM you can hit the ground running without delay , as you’ll automatically connect to the best local provider possible. This is in contrast with using regular SIM cards, where you’ll need to go out and find local chips in a market, compare between them etc.

BEST eSIMs for USA Travel

1. maya mobile - best esims for the usa with unlimited data.

Maya is one of our personal favorites when it comes to eSIMs, and especially so here in the USA given the variety of benefits they offer.

A US based company, they now operate in 190 countries worldwide and provide some of the most high value eSIMS around.

Their prepaid eSIMs are really useful, where you can select plans between 5-30 days. They’re generous with the data you’ll receive too, and for example on the 30 day prepaid plan (which costs $40) you can receive as much as 40GB!

Those who are heavy internet users can also select from their different unlimited data plans, which are perfect for hotspotting to your laptop or live streaming your favorite shows on the go.

You’ll also always have a really good connection too when in the USA with Maya, using some of the best 5G and 4G LTE roaming networks.

Maya even goes as far as providing a full money-back guarantee in case your SIM fails when out on the road in the USA. We think this makes it a no-brainer since you’ll either have a great eSIM service, or be fully covered in the event that something goes wrong.

Overall Maya is a great option for those who need fast connections as well as flexible data plans. The only downside is that their plans are a maximum of 30 days, and if traveling for longer than the costs can rack-up if buying multiple plans with them.

Advantages of Maya Mobile for the USA:

High-speed connections throughout the USA
Great for heavy data users
Money-back Guarantee in place in case something goes wrong with your eSIM

Disadvantages of Maya Mobile for the USA:

Maximum plan length of 30 Days
More costly than other available plans

2. FIRSTY - best eSIM app with free data

With so many eSIMs available, how can a company stand out? How about offering FREE data?

Yes, you read that right!

Firsty is a unique eSIM provider that believes everyone should have access to global data.

Firsty automatically connects you to every mobile provider worldwide as soon as you land, so there's no need to switch eSIMs or buy expensive data bundles every time you enter a new location.

You might be wondering, what's the catch? There isn’t one.

Firsty offers two plans: “Free” and “Fast.”

The free plan provides a basic global data connection.

If you want faster speeds, you only pay the local rate, which is up to 60 times less than typical international bundles.

Plus, you don’t even need a credit card! If you think the fast plan must be expensive, you'd be wrong again. It's just €1 per day.

How do they keep prices so low?

They have access to every provider worldwide, making it easier to negotiate better rates. Firsty is currently available in 70 countries, with plans to expand even further.

Advantages of Firsty for the USA:

- Free data: It’s free, hassle-free, and doesn’t require credit card information. You’ve got nothing to lose by trying it! You'll get unlimited data a day all all you'll need to do is watch a 30 second add for 60 minutes of free data. With this basic connection you can WhatsApp, email, iMessage, use Maps and Google Maps, order a rideshare like Uber, Lyft, and Grab

- 24/7 customer support: Firsty's customer service is top-notch and supported in over 80 languages.

- Firsty Pause: This feature lets you pause your fast data when you're not using it, so you don't waste data. For example, if you're on a cruise from Denmark to Iceland, you can pause your fast data while on the ferry and restart it when you reach land. Meanwhile, you'll still have basic connectivity thanks to Firsty Free. I recently did this trip, and this feature would have been incredibly useful.

Disadvantages of Firsty:

- Fewer countries than other global eSIM plans: While Firsty is expanding, it currently offers coverage in fewer countries than some other global data eSIM providers. However, what they lack in countries, they make up for in price and service!

3. SimOptions - Best eSIM for Reputation and Reliability

Next we have SimOptions, who are another highly-trusted company that offers plans and coverage in over 200 nations worldwide.

One of the biggest benefits of using SimOptions is that they are very flexible, and support the use of multiple eSIMS on the same device .

This means you can have one for data and also another for local calls if this is something that you’ll need during your trip.

Their cheapest eSIM starts at just $4.90, which includes 1GB data for a total duration of 30 days. Their longest (and most expensive plan) costs $34.90, which includes 20GB and also lasts for 30 days. All of these eSIM options support the use of hotspotting too which is useful.

Overall SimOptions is a great option for those who want a cheap option or are on a shorter trip, although you won’t receive as much data as other companies (so you’ll need to watch your daily use).

Advantages of SimOptions for the USA:

Cheap eSIM Packages
Support Hotspotting

Disadvantages of SimOptions for the USA:

Short eSIM Durations

4. Airalo - Best Coverage Options for the USA

Another popular eSIM choice for those heading to the USA is Airalo, who provide plans for over 200 countries across the planet.

One of the best benefits of going with them is the fact that they provide not only eSIMS for the USA, but also regional and global plans too which is perfect if you are planning a longer trip to multiple countries .

If you are staying just in the USA, you’ll find options as cheap as $4.50 which includes 1GB for 7 days, all the way to their longest plan of 30 days, where you’ll get 20GB for $21.00.

Their regional plans also last for 30 days, where you’ll be covered in the USA as well as Canada and Mexico. For $46.00 you’ll be gifted 10GB to use throughout all three countries as you wish during your trip.

If you plan on going on a much longer trip, then you can select from their global plans. Their longest plan covers you for a total of 365 days, where you’ll have 20GB to use in over 120 countries as well as the USA for $69.00.

Overall Airalo offers one of the greatest ranges of eSIMs for the USA, which is great if you plan on traveling for longer here (or to numerous other countries on the same trip).

The main disadvantage of using Airalo is that most of their eSIMS only support data, however not local phone calls or messages (although you can easily get around this by using WhatsApp).

Advantages of Airalo for the USA:

They offer a range of local, regional and global eSIM plans
Really intuitive and helpful app

Disadvantages of Airalo for the USA:

Most plans can’t make local calls or send messages to local numbers

5. Holafly - Best eSIM for the USA with Unlimited Calls!

Holafly is another highly rated eSIM provider, who have plenty of great reviews from customers who have used their various plans.

They provide a range of eSIM lengths for the USA, which start from 5 days up to 90 days. By far the biggest advantage of using Holafly is the fact that all of their plans include unlimited data, which means you can really relax and not worry about how you use your data daily.

The costs of Holafly’s eSIM cards are some of the more expensive options on the market, however are still of high value considering their unlimited internet usage. The 5 day plan costs $19.00, whilst those traveling for a month can purchase their 30 day eSIM for $64.00. Lastly we have their 90 day plan which costs $99.00.

The other advantage of using HolaFly is that you will have direct access to their useful and quick-to-respond customer support team, and also that they offer a North American regional plan if you also want to visit Canada or Mexico on the same trip.

Overall Holafly is perfect for heavy data users, although you’ll be limited just to your own device. One of the biggest disadvantages (unfortunately) is the fact that you cannot share or transfer data - which to be honest makes sense since you are getting unlimited data after all!

Advantages of Holafly for the USA:

Unlimited data plans
Very responsive customer service team available in 7 different languages

Disadvantages of Holafly for the USA:

They don’t allow Hotspotting
Plans are more expensive than other options

Which eSIM will you go for?

And that’s all for our guide on the best eSIMS to use when traveling to and around the USA.

eSIMS are a really useful tool to use when traveling abroad, and we think are a must-have when heading to the USA (or any other country for that matter).

Not only will you have high-speed connections at an affordable price , you’ll also find various plans to have distinct advantages (such as regional bundles or high data plans for hotspotting to your other devices).

In this guide we’ve covered why using an eSIM is much better than a traditional SIM card, as well as 5 of the best eSIM companies you can use when in the USA.

Which eSIM do you think you’re getting for your next trip?

Do you have a particular brand that we haven’t included?

Comment below and let us know your thoughts!

Looking for more eSIM guides?

Best eSIMS for Travel
Best eSIMS for Europe
Best eSIMS for South East Asia

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

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

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

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

At A Glance: Our Top eSIMs For USA

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

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

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

Holafly eSims

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

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

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

Note: Use EXPERTWORLDTRAVEL for 5% off your first order

Holafly has teamed up with

PTI Pacifica Inc.

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

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

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

Maya Mobile

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

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

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

Here are their eSIM packages for USA travel:

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

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

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

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

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

You have data plans such as:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Benefits of Getting An eSIM for the USA

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

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

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

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

Devices Compatible with a USA eSIM

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

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

iPhone & iPad

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (4th Generation): with M2 chip, Liquid Retina Display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6E, 12MP front/12MP and 10MP Back Cameras, Face ID, All-Day Battery Life – Space Gray

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

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

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

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

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

iPad Mini: 5th & 6th generation

Android Phones

SAMSUNG Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G Factory Unlocked Android Cell Phone US Version Smartphone Flex Mode Intuitive Camera Compact 128GB Storage US Warranty, Green'

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

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

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

Motorola: Razr 2019, Razr 5G

Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro

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

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

Other Devices That Support eSim

ACER: Swift 3, Swift 7

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Mobile Operators Offering eSims in the US

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

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

Data Needed When Traveling to the USA

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

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

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

Tips for Using eSIM in the USA

Make sure your device is compatible and unlocked.

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

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

Use Facetime & iMessage

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

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

Use Offline Maps

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

Here is how to download Google Maps for offline use.

Try To Use WiFi

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

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

Live In Airplane Mode

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

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

Control Which Apps Use Data

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

What is an eSIM?

In case you are not familiar with eSIMs…

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview Guide
1 Week Itinerary
Train Journeys
Epic Drives
Stunning Lakes
Historic Castles
Lauterbrunnen
Grindelwald
Chocolate Tours
Swiss National Park
Majestic Mountains
Spectacular Waterfalls
Famous Things
Tasty Fondue
10 Day Itinerary
Cherry Blossoms
Tokyo Shrines
Dos and Don’ts
Osaka Guide
Osaka Itinerary
Osaka or Kyoto
Kyoto Day Trips
Matsumoto Castle
Tokyo Luxury Hotels
Island Hopping
Best Campsites
Driving Tips
Beaune, France
Barcelona Itinerary
Spain Itinerary
Greece Itinerary
Italy Road Trips
Berlin Day Trips
Norway Northern Lights
Netherlands National Parks
Mostar, Bosnia
Best Airlines
Midwest Ski Resorts
Florida RV Parks
Washington RV Parks
Oregon RV Parks
Utah Camping
Texas Camping
Chicago National Parks
East Coast National Parks
Colorado National Parks
Joshua Tree
Yellowstone
Alberta Hikes
Flashlights
Water Filters
Sleeping Pads
Solar Lanterns
Tent Brands
4-Person Tents
4 Seasons Tents
Backpacking Tents
Beach Tents
Cabin Tents
Multi-room Tents
Pop-up Tents
Truck Bed Tents
Underwear (Men)
Backpacks Under $100
Microspikes
Boonie Hats
In The World
New Zealand
Hardisde Luggage
Lightweight Luggage
Luggage Sets
Spinner Luggage
Durable Suitcases
Duffel Bags
Kids Luggage
Teen Luggage
Space Saving Luggage
Business Carry-Ons
Garment Carry-Ons
Suitcases Under $50
Travel Briefcase
Zipperless Suitcases
Rolling Briefcase
Luggage Straps
Luxury Brands
American Tourister
AmazonBasics
Delsey Chatelet
Anti-Theft Backpacks
Backpacks Under $50
Baby Carrier Backpacks
Cooler Backpacks
Backpacking Backpacks
Climbing Backpacks
Backpacks for Back Pain
Beach Backpacks
Hiking Backpacks
Business Travel Backpacks
Laptop Backpacks
Backpacks for Tablets
Commuter Backpacks
Travel Backpacks (Men)
Travel Backpacks (Women)
Waterproof Backpacks
Wheeled Backpacks
Down Jackets
Down Parkas
Fleece Jackets
Hardshell Jackets
Rain Jackets
Softshell Jackets
Eco Friendly Jackets
Gore Tex Alternatives
Heated Jackets
Lightweight Jackets
3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
Parajumper Jackets
Rain Poncho
Ski Jackets
Travel Hoodies
Travel Jackets
Winter Coats
Helly Hansen
Mammut Jackets
Patagonia Nanopuff
Survival Jackets
Flower Captions
Waterfall Captions
Tree Captions
Sunset Captions
Sunflower Captions
Rainbow Captions
Paddle Boarding Captions
Hot Air Balloon Captions
Kayaking Captions
Airplane Captions For Instagram
Forest Captions

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR NEXT ESIM

Get 5% off unlimted data , code: "expertworldtravel", new customer 15% off with code: " airalojune15 ".

Best eSIM for international travel of 2024

eSIMs that 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 beginners
Best for frequent travellers
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

The best eSIMS for international travel make it simple and easy to stay connected with your phone wherever you are, without breaking the bank.

A person using dictation with a smartphone.

1. Best overall 2. Best for customizable plans 3. Best for easy installation 4. Best for value for money 5. Best for security 6. Best for beginners 7. Best for frequent travellers

8. Best for network coverage

9. Best for unlimited data 10. Best for global plans 11. Best for Europe 12. Best for data-only plans 13. 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.

Reader Offer: 5% off for Techradar readers Techradar editors love AloSIM's prepaid data SIM for its transparency, auto-installation feature, and affordable price. Techradar readers can save 5% off with code TECHRADAR5.

Preferred partner ( What does this mean? )

The best eSIM for international travel of 2024 in full:

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.

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 deals 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.

Read our full Airhub review.

^ Back to the top

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 is 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, and 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 when 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.

Read our full Airalo review.

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 Data Calculator which 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.

Read our full AloSIM review.

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 European 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.

In conclusion, 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.

Read our full Nomad review.

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 the 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.

Read our full Instabridge review.

Best eSIM for beginners

Saily is a newcomer in the eSIM market that’s quickly gaining popularity among budget-conscious travelers looking for a straightforward and reliable service. Launched in 2024 by Nord Security, the company behind the well-known NordVPN, Saily offers competitive pricing and a user-friendly app that makes it an attractive choice for those new to eSIMs.

One of Saily's standout features is its affordable data plans, with prices starting at just $1.65 for 20GB of data. This makes it an excellent option for travelers who want to stay connected without breaking the bank. Saily's plans are country-specific, meaning you'll need to purchase a separate plan for each destination you visit. While this may be less convenient for those traveling to multiple countries, it allows for more customized pricing based on local network costs.

Saily's coverage spans over 150 countries, including popular destinations like the United States, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, and India. The company partners with local providers to ensure reliable connections and fast data speeds in most regions. However, I found that Saily's coverage is slightly more limited compared to some of its competitors, such as Airalo.

But where Saily really shines is its commitment to simplicity. The app's minimalistic design and intuitive interface make it easy for even first-time eSIM users to navigate. The installation process is straightforward, with clear on-screen instructions guiding users through purchasing plans and activating their eSIMs.

While Saily may not offer as many features as some of its more established competitors, it excels at providing a streamlined and hassle-free experience. The app's clean layout makes it easy to track your data usage and top up your plan when needed. And if you do run into any issues, Saily offers 24/7 customer support via live chat within the app, ensuring you can get help whenever you need it.

In summary, Saily is an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize affordability and simplicity. With its competitive pricing, user-friendly app, and reliable coverage, it's a strong contender in the growing eSIM market. While it may not have the most extensive feature set or country coverage, Saily's focus on delivering a seamless user experience makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious globetrotters.

Read our full Saily review.

Best eSIM for frequent travellers

Jetpac is a Singapore-based eSIM provider founded in 2022. With its expansive coverage spanning over 100 countries, Jetpac offers reliable internet access through both regional and global plans, catering to a variety of travel needs. Whether you're on a short 4-day trip or an extended 30-day journey, Jetpac ensures you're always connected. Their flexible data plans range from 1GB to 40GB or more, ensuring you have the data you need for every situation.

Jetpac has partnered with local networks around the world to guarantee high-speed internet, with most connections offering 4G/LTE and even 5G speeds where available. This means you can enjoy smooth browsing, streaming, and communication no matter where you are.

One of Jetpac’s standout features is its SmartDelay service. By registering your flight with Jetpac, you can gain complimentary access to airport lounges if your flight is delayed or canceled. This service can accommodate up to five travelers, making it a valuable perk for families or groups. Imagine the convenience of relaxing in a comfortable lounge, complete with refreshments and Wi-Fi, rather than waiting at the gate during unexpected delays.

Another notable feature is the ability to share your hotspot and connect with your laptop, tablet, or other devices to your Jetpac eSIM, ensuring that all your gadgets stay online wherever you go. This feature is particularly beneficial for business travelers who need to stay productive or for families wanting to keep everyone connected on a single plan.

Setting up Jetpac’s eSIM is straightforward and user-friendly. By downloading the Jetpac app, you are guided through the simple installation process. Additionally, Jetpac’s website offers detailed resources and guides to assist with any questions you might have. The company’s dedication to customer support is evident, with a team available around the clock to assist via email or live chat.

However, it's important to note that your device must be eSIM compatible to use Jetpac’s services. While the eSIM can be downloaded and installed before you depart, the data plan will only activate once you arrive in a supported country.

Read our full Jetpac review.

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 who 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, the 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 don'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 for 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.

Read our full Holafly review.

Best eSIM for global plans

10. 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 that 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

11. 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

12. 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.

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

Read our full Flexiroam review.

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

What is an esim .

eSIMs are digital SIM cards already embedded in your mobile device. They are small rewritable chips fixed inside your phone, which connect with an antenna to eliminate the need for a physical SIM.

Since an eSIM is rewritable, you can change your operator with just a simple setting change. The antenna connects to whichever network you select, so there’s no need to purchase a new SIM.

eSIMs have been around for quite some time. But when Apple decided to remove the good old SIM card slot and shift the iPhone to being completely eSIM-featured, this feature got its moment in the spotlight. The main reason eSIMs are preferred is because of their ease of use.

Some other reasons why eSIMs have gained popularity include environmental sustainability, reduced battery consumption, and the ability to switch networks on the fly in remote areas.

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 physical SIM cards in most scenarios.

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 them when needed without 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. 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 way to remove them, so they can’t get lost. And if your phone gets lost or stolen, tracking it is much easier since eSIMs cannot be removed from the device.

Note that international roaming works the same way on physical SIMs 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 and switch your eSIM operators as you visit multiple locations.

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.

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. Which place are you 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.

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-day 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 does an 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 Android or iOS app and activated by scanning a QR code.

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 the 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. But if you have an Android device, eSIMs are still an option on your visit to China.

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.

How to set up and activate an eSIM on Android?

Most new smartphone models like the Samsung Galaxy series and Google Pixel have eSIM capabilities.

Once you’ve confirmed that your specific Android device supports eSIMs, you can obtain the activation kit from your provider and install it by following the steps below:

Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager on your Android phone. Tap “Add Mobile Plan”.
If you have a QR code, select “Scan Operator QR code” and scan the code with your phone's camera. If entering manually, select “Enter Activation Code” and carefully type in the code from your carrier.
Your phone will take a minute or two to download the eSIM profile and register it on the network. Once complete, tap “OK”.
To manage your eSIM, go back to SIM Card Manager in your Android device’s settings. From there you can view your eSIM info, select your active SIM, and continue adding additional eSIMs.

Many of the eSIM providers on this list also provide device-specific guides to help you get started quickly. If you feel lost, just check their knowledge bases for more details!

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?

eSIMs offer several advantages over traditional SIM cards. They provide greater flexibility, convenience, and security for users — all while saving device space and reducing battery consumption.

While the technology is still relatively new and not universally supported yet, eSIMs will likely become the standard in the coming years as more devices and carriers adopt it.

Here’s an overview of some key advantages of using an eSIM:

Seamless Activation

One of the biggest advantages of eSIMs is the ease of activation and switching between carriers. With an eSIM, you can activate service or change providers with just a few taps on your device, without having to go to a store to get a physical SIM.

This makes it much more convenient, especially when traveling internationally.

Increased Security

eSIMs offer enhanced security compared to physical SIMs. They cannot be physically removed or stolen from a device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or SIM cloning. Some eSIMs even have self-destructing features that erase data after failed authentication attempts

Designs Options

Since eSIMs are embedded directly into devices and don't require a separate slot, they free up valuable space inside smartphones. This allows manufacturers to make devices slimmer, include larger batteries, or add other features. The lack of a removable SIM tray also improves water and dust resistance.

Multiple Profiles

A single eSIM can store multiple carrier profiles, allowing you to switch between them as needed. This is especially useful if you want to use separate lines for work and personal use on a single phone, or if you frequently travel and need to use local service in different countries.

With an eSIM, you can do this without juggling multiple physical SIM cards.

Reliable Connectivity

eSIMs can provide more reliable connectivity than physical SIM cards. SIM cards can come loose, get damaged, or degrade over time, potentially leading to signal issues. The embedded nature of eSIMs makes them less prone to these physical connectivity problems.

Environmental Sustainability

Switching to eSIMs offers significant environmental benefits compared to using physical SIM cards. eSIMs eliminate the need for plastic SIM card production, packaging, and transportation, reducing the telecom industry's carbon footprint.

By enabling remote provisioning and digital distribution of SIM profiles, eSIMs also cut down on the need for users to travel to stores for activation or changes, further decreasing emissions.

Are there any risks to using eSIMs?

eSIMs are no more dangerous than physical SIM cards. They both employ the same encryption methods and security protocols to protect user data. The only possible security disadvantage of eSIMs is that they are a relatively new technology and some users may find the setup process more complex.

But, in many cases, eSIMs may actually be safer. Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs cannot be physically removed or tampered with, reducing the risk of SIM cloning or unauthorized SIM swapping. Because they are a more recent technology, eSIMs also have additional security features like remote provisioning and encrypted communications, which make them safer to use.

All that said, eSIMs are not infallible. Just like physical SIM cards, they can be hacked into by an attacker with enough skills and determination. As an eSIM user, you can protect yourself by using strong unique passwords, keeping your eSIM software updated, and only downloading profiles from trusted sources.

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.

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!

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.

Ritoban Mukherjee
Udita Choudhary Editorial assistant

What is the current state of Security Culture in Europe?

7 Juneteenth shows and movies to check out with a VPN

Olark review

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

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 June 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, more info about the network coverage and 4G/5G network and data speed, answers to the most FAQ about e-sim cards, 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.

My recommendation

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

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. Jetpac USA e-sim

40 GB data-only e-sim
Valid in USA
$0.9 USD per Gigabyte only

Jetpac is the best value e-sim for the USA with a rate that goes down to only $0.9 USD per Gigabyte.

3. 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 with a rate 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. 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. Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T all offer e-sim cards for tourists. 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 Verizon, T-Mobile or AT&T e-sim cards at an 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

On arrival in the USA you can now also buy an e-sim card in an official phone store from Verizon, T-Mobile or AT&T. However, if you want to arrive prepared and have data on your phone as soon as the plane lands it is much more convenient to order an e-sim for the USA on the internet.

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: SimOptions, Jetpac, Nomad, Holafly, Airalo, etc. one of the well-known e-sim card providers that have proven to be reliable operators.

Traveltomtom's favorite e-sim providers have been SimOptions and Airalo for many years, but are they the cheapest? The competition is fierce...

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, Holafly, Jetpac and Nomad only sell e-sim cards for the USA.

Jetpac is a new e-sim provider and they are trying to gain ground by not only offering e-sim solutions, but also add a couple benefits for travelers who order an e-sim via Jetpac. I have tried it out myself and some benefits can come in pretty handy. More about it later.

Traveltomtom has tried Jetpac now in a couple different countries without any issues and has had some very good reviews from Traveltomtom readers who also tried Jetpac e-sims.

However, one of the main reasons why Jetpac is listed as one of the best e-sims for USA is their competitive prices.

Let's check out the e-sim card plans Jetpac has for USA in 2024:

1 GB data for 4 days = $1 USD
3 GB data for 7 days = $5 USD
5 GB data for 30 days = $8 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD
15 GB data for 30 days = $18 USD
25 GB data for 30 days = $27 USD
30 GB data for 30 days = $30 USD
40 GB data for 30 days = $36 USD

Click here to order a Jetpac e-sim card for the United States .

The Jetpac e-sim plan for USA with 40 GB data for $36 USD makes it the best value best value e-sim card for USA with a rate of only $0.9 USD per Gigabyte.

You can instal your Jetpac e-sim card before your trip to USA, but it only activates from the moment it connects to a supported network in USA. That moment your days also start counting. The Jetpac e-sims have to be installed within 1 year.

The Jetpac USA e-sim cards are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. Data is valid in USA only and the Jetpac e-sims operate on the 4G/LTE network of T-Mobile USA, they are not 5G ready.

An extra advantage of Jetpac USA e-sim cards is that they provide free lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided. This is a complimentary service that no other e-sim card provider offers. For more info check the Jetpac website .

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. 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.

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

1 GB data for 30 days = $4.5 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. Apart from the first plan (1 GB) 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.

But there is more...

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.

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, Jetpac, Holafly 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 is quickly trying to gain some ground in the e-sim business by constantly adding new e-sim card deals and offers to their USA plans. Nomad is now a couple years active on the e-sim market and Traveltomtom has had some mixed experiences with Nomad e-sims.

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

Nomad offers two types of e-sims for the USA: regular plans and daily plans.

Regular plans

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 = $18 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $28 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 when it comes to the price of e-sim plans.

However, Traveltomtom has also ran into some 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 for me it has unfortunately already been 3x that I 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/5G network of AT&T and Verizon. These eSIM Go plans are 5G ready and are data-only sim cards. Incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.

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 .

Daily plans

Nomad also has daily plans. These e-sim cards could perfect for those going on a short trip to USA. You basically get 1 GB high speed data per 24 hours. After 1 GB data your data speed is reduced to 512 Kbps, that is similar to an E signal. Check the following daily plans:

1 GB data per day for 1 day = $4 USD
1 GB data per day for 3 day = $7 USD
1 GB data per day for 5 day = $11 USD
1 GB data per day for 7 day = $16 USD
1 GB data per day for 10 day = $22 USD

When I saw the prices for these e-sims I was pleasantly surprised. If you are careful with the amount of Gigabytes you use per day it could be a great e-sim for the USA.

Personally, it would not be enough for me as I can easily spend more than 1 GB data in just a 1 hour bus or train ride.

Watching TikTok video for about 60 minutes is about 1 GB data, watching Instagram reels for 45 minutes is also already 1 GB data. It depends how many gigabytes you use per day, but it could be a great e-sim card for traveling to USA.

Click here to order this Nomad daily plan e-sim card for the USA from Nomad .

Holafly sells e-sim cards for USA with unlimited data. Traveltomtom is not a fan of e-sim cards with 'unlimited' data, but more about that later. Here are the Holafly e-sim plans for traveling to the USA:

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

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

However, Traveltomtom was not satisfied with the performance of a Holafly e-sim card in the USA. Tested and reviewed and what was sometimes disappointing was the data speed, especially inside buildings. Instagram and Tiktok was not working smooth and often buffering, especially Instagram reels.

You can use a hotspot on the Holafly USA e-sim cards, but it is capped at 500 MB per day.

Why 'unlimited'? Because there is a Fair Use Policy and Traveltomtom has had bad experiences with this in the past. Suddenly your data speed is slowed down for 24 hours because you apparently used too much data. More info later.

If I hate something then it is slow data speed. Therefore Traveltomtom's is not a fan of e-sim cards with 'unlimited' data and therefore it is not my first recommendation when looking for an e-sim for USA.

You can buy an e-sim card for pretty much every country in 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.

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 June 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

A Jetpac e-sim for just $1 USD is the cheapest e-sim for traveling in the USA, but it is only valid for 4 days.

The USA e-sim card from Airalo start from just $4.5 USD. You only get 1 GB and it is valid for 7 days. 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 , Jetpac , Holafly, 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 , Jetpac , Holafly) 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. Jetpac and Nomad are fairly new e-sim providers, but have so far proven to be a reliable e-sim card provider. That said Traveltomtom had some issues with Nomad e-sims lately and wasn't 100% satisfied with their performance.

Traveltomtom barely uses Holafly as they work with Fair Use Policies per day and it might happen that your unlimited data e-sim experiences reduced data speed. Therefore not a Traveltomtom favorite.

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 and gives you an honest review.

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?

The by Traveltomtom recommended e-sim cards for the USA do NOT support calls and sms. All the e-sims from Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad, Airalo and SimOptions do not support calling and texting and are all data-only e-sims.

There are some random 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 and they are also not common.

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, but in general: no. 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.

All the e-sims from Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad and Airalo do NOT come with a phone number. 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.

Holafly and Airalo e-sim cards for the USA are 5G ready. Jetpac, SimOptions and Nomad e-sims for the USA only support 4G/LTE.

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 an 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 e-sims of Jetpac, Nomad, SimOptions and Airalo do NOT offer e-sim cards for the USA with unlimited data. No hidden fees, no Fair Use Policy. Clear terms & conditions!

Holafly is different and Holafly only offers e-sim cards with unlimited data plans per day. However, Holafly but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP) and therefore it is not Traveltomtom's first recommendation.

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, if the FUP is 2 GB per day then what is 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

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 , Los Angeles 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: Verizon, 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, Verizon 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 the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my 650K Instagram account or 1.3 Million TikTok account both called @traveltomtom. Follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of June 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.

Enjoy your trip to USA!

usa sim card
los angeles
united states
north america

Best eSIM For USA Travel: Everything You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 19, 2024 | SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Are you planning a trip to the United States and want to stay connected while on the go?

Look no further than an eSIM! An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that can be used instead of a physical SIM card and is becoming increasingly popular for travelers.

It eliminates the need to buy multiple physical SIM cards from different carriers, saving you time and money.

In this guide, we’ll provide all the information you need to find the best USA eSIM for your upcoming travels.

So let’s start – it’s time to find out which USA eSIM is truly “the best”!

Best eSIM USA Deals

Here are the best USA eSIM providers depending on your needs:

Cheapest USA plans: Nomad offers the cheapest plans in the United States. Airalo and AloSIM are slightly more expensive.
Cheapest unlimited plans in the USA: Yoho Mobile offers the cheapest plans, and it includes Voice and SMS, too. However, if you need unlimited data for longer periods, Holafly is a great option.
Plans without expiration: BNESIM is the only eSIM offering plans without expiration.

ESIM Installation And Compatibility

eSIM technology is currently supported on a few devices, including:

Apple iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, and newer models.
Google Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and newer models.
Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, and newer models.
Huawei P40, and newer models.

If you’re considering upgrading your phone soon, read about the best eSIM phones .

To verify if your device is compatible with eSIM , go to Settings and locate your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). This will tell you if your device supports eSIM.

Here’s how to do it add an eSIM on a Google Pixel device:

Go to Settings.
Go to Network and Internet
Click on Add more
Choose Download a SIM instead.
Click on next.
Scan the QR code.
Name the eSIM.
Pick the eSIM to provide data.
Make sure the roaming is on.

How To Choose The Best eSIM Provider For USA Travel?

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s look at how to choose the best travel eSIM provider for the United States.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing an eSIM provider, including:

Coverage: Make sure the eSIM provider has good coverage in the United States. In short, the eSIM should use a good network in the USA.
Data: How much data do you need? You’ll need a plan with more data if you’re a heavy user.
Speed: Not all eSIM providers offer the same speeds. If you need fast speed, make sure to choose a provider that offers 5G or LTE.
Price: eSIM plan prices can vary, so consider your budget when choosing an eSIM provider. You can compare a few options to get the best value for your money.

Where To Buy A USA eSIM?

eSIMs for USA travel can be bought from eSIM providers.

Many eSIM shops sell eSIMs directly from their websites. This is the most convenient option, as you can activate your eSIM immediately.

Some eSIM apps like Ubigi allow you to purchase a plan without data or WiFi.

So, how do you pick an eSIM provider?

Let us help! We’ll review the best eSIM for US travel below.

Nomad eSIM USA

Nomad offers data plans in 100+ countries. They offer plans in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. They also have regional and global plans.

I’ve tried Nomad, and it worked well. Although, it’s not my favorite because they only have short-term plans (up to 60 days, but mostly 30 days).

Here’s an overview of the plans available in the United States:

1GB, valid for 7 days for $4
3GB, valid for 15 days for $10
5GB, valid for 15 days for $14
10GB, valid for 30 days for $24
12GB, valid for 30 days for $26
15GB, valid for 30 days for $30
20GB, valid for 30 days for $33
30GB, valid for 30 days for $50
40GB, valid for 30 days for $65
50GB, valid for 30 days for $80
100GB, valid for 60 days for $240

Go to Nomad

Nomad Offer

Get $3 off on your first purchase on Nomad by using my referral code: MELI23HJ.

Airalo eSIM USA

Airalo is the most popular eSIM store and offers eSIMs in 200+ countries at affordable prices.

I’ve been using Airalo for a while now, and you can read our complete Airalo review to learn more about this eSIM provider.

Here’s an overview of the Airalo plans available in the United States:

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

Go to Airalo

Airalo Offer

Get 10% off your first purchase on Airalo by using my referral code: ABB10.

Get A Discount Now

AloSIM eSIM USA

aloSIM is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 130+ regions and countries. You’ll find many affordable local and regional eSIM plans.

To learn more, you can read our complete aloSIM review .

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

Go to aloSIM

AloSIM Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my AloSIM promo code: ABB5. To add a coupon code, you’ll need to enter it as a voucher when choosing a payment method.

Yoho Mobile eSIM USA

Yoho Mobile is an eSIM provider offering plans in 190+ regions and countries. You’ll also find plans in individual countries, and you’ll find regional plans for Europe and Asia.

To learn more, you can read our complete Yoho Mobile review .

All the Yoho Mobile USA plans come with unlimited calls and SMS.

Unlimited, valid for 5 days for $8.88
Unlimited, valid for 7 days for $11.66
Unlimited, valid for 10 days for $14.88
Unlimited, valid for 15 days for $20.99
Unlimited, valid for 20 days for $26.96
Unlimited, valid for 25 days for $33.99
Unlimited, valid for 30 days for $29.88
Unlimited, valid for 60 days for $60

Go to Yoho Mobile

Yoho Mobile Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my Yoho Mobile promo code: abrokenbackpack5. To add a coupon code, click on View Cart and paste the coupon code there.

Holafly eSIM USA

Holafly is an eSIM provider with eSIM plans for more than 190 destinations.

I tried Holafly before, so you can read our complete Holafly review to learn more.

Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for $21
Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for $29
Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for $37
Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $51
Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $62
Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $75
Unlimited data, valid for 60 days for $107
Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for $139

Go to Holafly

Holafly Offer

Get 5% off your first purchase on Holafly with my referral code ABROKENBACKPACK.

SimCorner eSIM USA

SimCorner offers data plans in 80+ countries. They offer both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans. You can pick between a local and a regional plan depending on your travel plans.

I’ve tried SimCorner, and it worked great.

However, I needed to wait a few hours to receive my eSIM. If you wish to purchase an eSIM plan on SimCorner, I recommend buying it a few days before your trip. This way, you’ll have it on time for your trip.

Learn more by reading our SimCorner review .

10GB, valid for 30 days for $40, including calls and SMS for $40
Unlimited data, valid for 30 days, including calls and SMS for $50

Go to SimCorner

SimCorner Offer

Get a 5% discount with our promo code: ABBPTravel.

Ubigi eSIM USA

Ubigi offers eSIM plans in 200+ countries. You can pick between a local, regional, or global plan depending on your travel plans.

I’ve tried Ubigi, and it worked great. You can even purchase a plan in the app without WiFi or the Internet, which is great. You’ll also choose if you want a one-off plan or a monthly subscription.

Learn more by reading our Ubigi review .

500MG, valid for 1 day for €2.90
3GB, valid for 30 days for €11
10GB, valid for 30 days for €24
50GB, valid for 30 days for €88
200GB, valid for 30 days for €200

Go to Ubigi

Ubigi Offer

There are no offers at the moment.

BNESIM eSIM USA

BNESIM is an eSIM provider that was founded in 2017. They offer plans in 200+ countries. You’ll also find other options like international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and monthly subscriptions.

To learn more, you can read our complete BNESIM review .

1GB, no expiration for $6.73
3GB, no expiration for $19.58
5GB, no expiration, for $31.61
10GB, no expiration for $60.56
20GB, no expiration for $118.48

Go to BNESIM

BNESIM Offer

Get a EUR 4 discount on your first purchase over EUR 10 with my BNESIM promo code: MELISSA4OFF.

Onesim eSIM USA

Onesim is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 125+ regions and countries. All their eSIM plans are regional or global, which means you’ll get coverage in multiple countries.

To learn more, you can read our complete Onesim review .

1GB, valid for 7 days for $4.90
3GB, valid for 30 days for $11.90
5GB, valid for 30 days for $18.90
10GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90
20GB, valid for 30 days for $59.90

Go to Onesim

Onesim Offer

Get a 10% discount on your first purchase with my Onesim coupon code: BACKPACK10. To add a coupon code, you’ll see an option that says, “Have a coupon? Click here to enter your code”.

eSIM Plans Available In North America

If you’re traveling to other countries in North America, here are the best eSIMS for North America.

These usually include travels in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

That said, if you travel only to one country in North America, you might want to consider a local plan instead.

Holafly North America

Holafly offers plans that cover the United States, Canada, and Mexico :

SimCorner USA, Canada And Mexico

SimCorner offers 2 different plans for the United States, Canada and Mexico:

15 GB, valid for 30 days for $47 (including calls and SMS)
Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $62 (including calls and SMS)

Onesim USA And Mexico

Onesim offers plans to facilitate your travels in North America but only includes the United States and Mexico.

You’ll also get coverage in 46 countries (mainly Europe and Asia).

Here’s an overview of the plans available:

1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.90
3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11.90
5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18.90
10 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90
20 GB, valid for 30 days for $59.90

SimOptions North America

SimOptions offers two plans to facilitate your travels in North America:

6 GB, valid for 10 days for $17.90
20 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90

AloSIM North America

AloSIM offers 4 different plans in North America:

1 GB, valid for 7 days for $8
3 GB, valid for 7 days for $21
5 GB, valid for 30 days for $32.50
10 GB, valid for 30 days for $50

Benefits Of Using An eSIM In The USA

eSIMs offer many benefits, which is excellent news if you’re a frequent traveler.

Here are the main reasons why I love using eSIM:

You get data as soon as you arrive.
You can activate your eSIM immediately.
You can keep your usual phone number and use eSIM to get data.
You don’t need to remove your SIM card or find a store to purchase one during your travels.
You can top up quickly.

woman using data abroad with her esim card

Final Thoughts On The Best eSIM USA

There are many eSIM providers out there, but not all of them offer the same coverage in the United States.

I can say that they’re all excellent eSIM providers with great eSIM plans.

The cheapest plans are offered by Nomad , followed by Airalo and AloSIM . However, of the three, I believe Airalo provides the best customer support and user experience.

If you prefer using an unlimited plan in the USA, we recommend Yoho Mobile because their plans include Voice and SMS, too. However, their plans are capped at 60 days.

If you need unlimited data for 90 days, Holafly is the only option available.

Finally, if you’d rather have a plan without an expiration date, BNESIM is the only eSIM provider offering plans without expiration.

Planning your trip to the USA? Read one of the following guides:

USA SIM card
Niagara Falls 2 day itinerary
Easy hikes in Sedona

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

What's The Best eSIM For the USA? We've Ranked the Top Providers in 2024

Jan Watermann

As a digital nomad, Jan is an expert in cross-border money transfers and internationalization. At Monito, he shares his knowledge by writing content geared primarily towards a German-speaking audience.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Known for its bustling metropolises, immense natural splendour, and friendly people, the United States isn't popular with tourists without reason. If you're planning to visit the country soon, it should come as no surprise that you won't be able to call, SMS, or access the web on the go with your smartphone as you usually would at home, and if you do manage to get connected via roaming, it can result in hefty additional charges.

However, none of this means you should leave your smartphone at home. If your device is a newish model (i.e., from 2019 or later), there's a good chance it'll support an eSIM. These nifty digital SIM cards can be downloaded and installed before you travel, promising blazing-fast internet in the USA at a very low cost compared to roaming and great convenience compared to physical SIMs. In this guide, we explore everything you have to know about eSIMs in the United States and what the best deals might be for you.

Dodge sky-high roaming costs, unexpected data charges, or spotty service on your trip to the USA by using an eSIM from Airalo to connect directly to local network providers like T-Mobile and Verizon.

✨ If you're a new customer, use code MONITO15 to get 15% off your first Airalo eSIM, and if you're a returning customer, use MONITO10 to get 10% off today! Go to Airalo now to get started.

As we'll explore in more depth in this guide, when choosing an eSIM, you have two options. The first option is for you to go through a digital eSIM provider, and the second option is to purchase an eSIM directly from your network provider or carrier. We strongly recommend the first option. After all, with reputable online providers, you can always be sure you'll get good support, excellent rates, and quality instructions that normally exceed those of the big carriers.

According to our review and comparison of the best options on the market, here are the three best eSIM providers for the USA and other countries worldwide:

What's The Best eSIM for the USA?

01. Airalo: Best eSIM for the USA in general scroll down
02. Holafly: Best eSIM for the USA for unlimited data scroll down
03. GigSky: Best for a free eSIM test scroll down
04. Yesim: A great alternative all around scroll down
05. Why using an eSIM is a great idea for the USA scroll down
06. What are the pros and cons of using an eSIM? scroll down
07. How to call from the USA scroll down
08. Recapping the best eSIMs for the USA scroll down
09. FAQ about the best eSIM for the USA scroll down

Best Overall: Airalo

Airalo is an excellent eSIM provider for the USA . Its online platform offers global access to eSIMs through collaboration with big local telecom providers. In the USA, for example, Airalo works directly with T-Mobile and Verizon to provide you with high-speed coverage directly from their networks, wherever you are in the country.

Once-off prices for eSIMs for the United States range from $4.50 to $42 and include between 1 GB and 20 GB of data. Ordinary travellers should be able to get by with these amounts without any problems. Setting up and activating your eSIM happens entirely on your smartphone, and it's very quick. In our test, we just took two minutes (watch our how-to video on YouTube to see how it's done). Moreover, you can easily top this up via the Airalo app if you start running low on data during your trip. This lets you save time and hassle compared to buying a physical SIM, where you'd usually need to stand in line at the counter to buy or top up your card or package.

We recommend Airalo in general, especially if you travel often. The service provides an excellent connectivity companion while you're abroad. To learn more about this excellent eSIM provider, look at our in-depth Airalo review .

Considering Airalo? Take advantage of the following special offers until the 31st of December 2024:

New customer? Use the code MONITO15 to claim a 15% discount on all Airalo eSIMs. Ts & Cs apply.
Returning customer? Use the code MONITO10 to claim a 10% discount on all Airalo eSIMs.

Go to Airalo now to get started! ✨

Best For Unlimited Data: Holafly

Holafly is another trusted eSIM service which only provides packages with unlimited data to dozens of countries worldwide. Although these packages cost quite a bit more than the smaller Airalo packages, in return, they offer the certainty that you'll never use up all your data.

For trips to the USA, Holafly's data packages cost between $21 and $139 once off and are valid from five to 90 days. Like Airalo, Holafly also works with domestic carriers, so you'll get coverage like a local no matter where you travel in the country (although in remote regions, coverage can become spotty).

Although Holafly offers unlimited data in most countries, including the USA, if you're a globetrotter, it's worth keeping in mind that Holafly offers limited data plans to some other destinations. Be sure to check their website or app before traveling to a new country to confirm whether Holafly's unlimited packages apply.

Although Holafly's packages are generally great if you'd like uncapped access to the web, it's worth remembering that most travellers don't usually need such a large sum of data and that normally, 5 GB to 10 GB, at most, should be enough for everyday travel needs in the USA like navigating, browsing, and using social media. Moreover, your speeds might be temporarily throttled if you use a very extensive amount of data (e.g., for non-stop HD streaming or downloading large files). During our test in the UK, this happened to us at around 4.5 GB of usage. Sadly, Holafly's fair use policies don't clearly outline when networks throttle speeds since it comes down to the individual network or carrier and the country you're browsing in.

If you're curious, we tested Holafly extensively to see if its data plans really live up to their 'unlimited' promise. The short answer? Yes, but there are a few things you should know. Take a look at our Holafly review to find out what they are.

Considering Holafly? Use the code MONITO at checkout to claim a 5% discount on all Holafly eSIMs. Go to Holafly now to get started! ✨

Best For a Free 100 MB Test: GigSky

GigSky is a popular US-based eSIM provider that offers a unique opportunity: it lets you download and install a free eSIM with 100 MB of allowance so you can test how eSIMs work without being obligated to pay more once you've used up your data.

Like Airalo, GigSky offers fixed data plans (normally just 1 GB, 3 GB, or 5 GB) in around 200 destinations worldwide, including the USA. And like Holafly, it also offers unlimited plans. In addition, GigSky offers regional and global plans, with all of its data allowances competitively priced and its rates neck-in-neck with those of the other providers on this list.

Most interestingly (unlike Airalo and Holafly), Gigsky offers special data plans for flights and cruises . Although they're pricier than the normal plans, they could be useful for you if you'd like to connect in the air or at sea.

Regardless of what kind of data plan you're looking for, GigSky probably has you covered—and at great rates to boot. Sign up now for a no-obligation free 500 MB and top up your data later if you need more.

Considering GigSky? Use code MONITO10 at checkout to get 10% off your purchase. Go to GigSky now to get started! ✨

Another Reliable Alternative: Yesim

A smaller and newer company than Airalo and Holafly, Yesim is a Swiss-based eSIM provider offering highly-rated eSIMs for countries around the globe. Their website and app are simple, straightforward, and easy to use, and over 300,000 customers have chosen their eSIMs so far.

Like its larger competitors, Yesim gives you a SIM card connecting to local carriers while you're abroad. It can be installed quickly and effortlessly right from the app or via a QR code sent to your email after purchase. Interestingly, alongside its eSIM service, Yesim also offers a virtual number service that allows you to get an online-only US (+1), Canadian (+1), or Israeli (+972) mobile phone number to use for apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram, OpenAI, Binance, Tinder, or TikTok. These virtual numbers can be used for a flat fee of $2.75 per month.

Going back to eSIMs, Yesim's packages typically cost between $7 and $28 for 3 GB to 20 GB, but only the 10 GB and 20 GB data plans last longer than 30 days (some plans up to 60 days are possible to purchase). In our opinion, this makes Yesim's offers slightly less attractive than Airalo's for travel in general.

However, it's worth remembering that Yesim's prices are often fractionally lower per gigabyte, so if you're looking for the best deal, make sure you visit Yesim's website and compare their prices to Airalo's,

How Do They Compare?

In the chart below, we've compared Airalo, Holafly, and Yesim based on a few factors you might find important on your trip to the USA or anywhere else in the world. As you'll see, the three are very competitive, with differences normally being slight. If you'd like to compare Holafly and Airalo directly, take a look at our side-by-side review of the two too.

Correct as of 8 March, 2024

Do I Need a SIM Card in the USA?

No, you don't need a SIM card as a tourist in the USA, but having one will enable you to make phone calls and SMSes and not to rely solely on public or hotel WiFi to access the web.

A good place to start would be to review your contract from your mobile network provider before you travel to the USA. Most contracts are limited to use just within your home country (or within the European Union if you live in an EU country). For all other countries, so-called 'roaming charges' typically apply. However, there is one exception: specific contracts sometimes allow you to use your data worldwide. If you have a global internet contract, you can also use it in the USA without unexpected roaming charges.

💳 Planning to use your credit or debit card on your American trip? You'll probably pay more than you think in hidden exchange rate fees every time you tap your card or withdraw cash. Get a free global account and debit card with Revolut to avoid these fees and save money. Check out our ranking of the best prepaid travel debit cards to find out more about how you can save.

Otherwise, although precise roaming charges differ according to your network provider, the fees for using mobile internet in the USA are typically around $2 or $3 per 6 MB (six megabytes) of data used, though they could be higher still. For example, if you wanted to download an average-sized app from the Google Play Store onto your Android smartphone, you'd use around 24 MB and pay $8 to $10 in roaming charges. It should, therefore, be clear that roaming with your regular SIM card in the USA is generally not worthwhile and can lead to enormous costs. As we'll see in a moment, it's significantly cheaper to purchase a local American SIM card once you arrive or, better yet, an eSIM before you travel.

What Are eSIMs, Anyway?

Simply put, eSIMs are regular SIM cards that don't require inserting an actual microchip into your device while providing the same benefits. Newer smartphones (but also smartwatches, tablets, and other devices) can be equipped with eSIMs, and since you don't need an actual SIM card to install an eSIM, you can also get one before your trip to the USA. To do this, all you have to do is visit an online eSIM service, purchase the eSIM you want, and follow the instructions to download and install it onto your device.

Like regular SIM cards, prepaid eSIMs come bundled with a certain fixed amount of data, SMSes, or telephone minutes, which you can use at your leisure while travelling. You get to choose the package you want, and you can generally also extend your eSIM's validity easily right from an app.

Pros of Using an eSIM

In general, eSIMs have numerous advantages and are often a better alternative to using a regular SIM card for most tourists. In our opinion, the most significant advantages include:

internet immediately upon arrival in the USA,
no negotiating with SIM card sellers at the airport,
transparent and fair pricing,
online extension is often possible,
credit card payment is possible,
local telecom provider networks are used.

In our opinion, there are only a few reasons against using an eSIM when travelling to the USA (which we'll discuss below), and in most instances, we're sure that it's a far better deal than using your normal SIM card from your home country on American networks.

Cons of Using an eSIM

As we've already seen, eSIMs have very few drawbacks and are an excellent option for accessing mobile internet on your American vacation.

However, one disadvantage is the slightly higher upfront cost than physical SIM cards. That said, eSIMs are still comparatively cheap, especially for use in the USA from abroad. In our opinion, the significantly higher level of comfort and the possibility of having access to the internet immediately upon arrival are worth the extra pennies. Another disadvantage is related to installation, where the process may be unfamiliar to you if you've never installed an eSIM before. However, if you follow the instructions carefully, you'll be fine.

Finally, there's the issue of compatibility: not all devices support eSIMs . If your device was released before late 2019, we recommend double-checking on the internet or contacting a representative from an eSIM service to confirm whether your device is compatible before you purchase an eSIM. In general, the following devices will support eSIMs though:

iPhone 11 or later
iPhone XS, iPhone XR, or iPhone SE
iPad 7th generation or later ,
Galaxy S20 or later
Google Pixel 3 or later
and many other devices (see our full list of compatible devices )

Can I Call From the USA With an eSIM?

Yes, you can call abroad from the United States with an eSIM , but once again, using your regular network provider and SIM card could result in surprisingly high calling charges at the end of the month (we've personally encountered as high as $4 per minute!). Fortunately, you can call abroad without the high costs, and there are three ways of doing this. We go through each below:

1. Voice-Over-IP (VoIP) With Data

In most cases, eSIM packages are loaded with mobile data, not with minutes or airtime. However, using your data, you can use web-based apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, FaceTime and others to stay in touch with family and friends abroad while in the United States.

2. eSIMs With Airtime

Some eSIM services offer talk and text packages alongside normal data packages. These allow you to make direct phone calls or SMSes via local networks in the USA to your home country for only a slightly higher fee than regular data packages. Not all eSIM services offer this service though, but some, like Wraptel , do.

3. International Calling Apps

If you plan to make calls from the USA (or anywhere else abroad) fairly regularly, then your most reliable and affordable option will be to use a third-party app. In our opinion, Rebtel is by far the best service out there , offering low rates and providing you with local American phone numbers with which you can make calls abroad as though they were completely domestic.

Although it's popular, we typically don't recommend using Google Fi for this purpose unless you plan to go back and forth from the United States regularly (since Google Fi is only available to Americans and will not work if you spend over 90 days abroad per year). In general, Rebtel's rates are more affordable than Google Fi's too. To learn more about our first-hand experience with Google Fi, look at our in-depth review .

Recap: All About eSIMs in the USA

Are you planning a trip in the USA, and do you have a modern smartphone? Then, you should certainly at least consider getting an eSIM. In our opinion, they offer almost nothing but advantages and are generally far superior to using your regular SIM card.

To find the right provider for eSIMs in the USA, you should compare the available options. As we've seen, we recommend looking primarily at the network provider and the price. Depending on how long you want to stay in the USA, Airalo, Holafly or possibly Yesim are the best choices. To recap, here are what each can offer you:

Airalo : Best eSIM for the USA overall.
Holafly : Best eSIM for unlimited data.
Yesim : Good alternative to Airalo,
GigSky : Best free eSIM to test,
Rebtel : Best calling service for international calls.

FAQ About The Best eSIM For the USA

Yes, eSIMs are safe to use in the USA. That's because commercial eSIM technology adheres to international security and encryption standards to store and securely access your mobile network information.

Generally, yes, but it depends on your individual needs. While eSIMs offer the advantage of remotely purchasing a SIM before you travel, making them convenient for frequent travellers, physical SIMs might still be preferable for you if you have an older smartphone model, for example.

No, eSIMs generally aren't free, with the cost in the USA varying based on mobile service providers and their pricing plans. However, GigSky offers you a free 500 MB test on all of its eSIMs, including to the USA, with no obligation to pay further once you've used the data up. This is a good deal if you'd like to access some free data or understand how eSIMs work.

To purchase an eSIM, you can generally expect to pay rates that range from $4.50 to $42 to purchase an eSIM with a minimal data package for the USA with a provider like Airalo.

Yes, you can use an eSIM on a locked phone, provided your phone is compatible with eSIM technology.

Yes, an eSIM can generally be used for calling from the USA, especially when paired with voice-over-IP services that connect to the internet, like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Google Messenger. If you'd like to call or SMS, consider finding an eSIM deal that includes airtime or minutes or use a service like Rebtel , which, for a tiny fee, provides you with a local number in place of your overseas contact's foreign number, making calling abroad significantly cheaper.

See These Other eSIM Guides

Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Best prepaid usa esim data plans for travelers | esim buyer’s guide.

What travelers need to know about buying a prepaid USA eSIM data plans.

phones and technology

A prepaid eSim is the cheapest and easiest way to get high-speed mobile data while visiting the USA. There are a handful of different plans tailored to visitors so I’ve compared the most popular options to help you find the best prepaid USA eSIM data plans.

Quick Note About Prepaid Data Plans In The USA

Many visitors to the US are frustrated by the high costs and lack of prepaid data plans—especially since they’re so easily available in the rest of the world. So what’s the deal? There are multiple reasons:

Most Americans Use Multi-Year Phone Contacts: It’s common for a majority of Americans to have multi-year phone contracts so there aren’t many prepaid options.
You Might Need a US Credit Card: Many mobile carriers require that you use a US credit card to buy month-to-month plans. You can sometimes get around this by purchasing a prepaid VISA debit card from a grocery store and then using this card to sign up for service. Again, it’s a hassle.
US Mobile Carriers Are Slow To Adopt eSIM Plans: eSIMs make switching carriers easier—which mobile carriers don’t like. I personally had to jump through multiple hoops with tech support to transfer my plan to an eSIM for my iPhone.

In short, don’t expect to easily find a prepaid data plan quickly once you arrive in the US. That’s why I highly recommend buying a data plan before arriving in the US if you don’t want to deal with the hassle.

Check out SimOptions (both physical SIM cards and eSIM plans) or Holafly (eSIM only) for a few different options.

The Best Prepaid eSIM Data Plans For The USA

Let’s take a look at the best USA eSIM data plan options that I’ve found. Each eSIM plan I’ve listed in this guide will vary slightly so spend time looking at the specific details. But here are the main things to consider:

Data Allowance: Most plans give you a set amount of mobile data (i.e. 5GB, 10GB, 30GB, etc) but others give you unlimited data over a set amount of time (5 days, 15 days, 30 days, etc).
Plan Length: eSIM data plans can be valid anywhere from about 5 days to 90 days. It depends on your plan so it’s something you’ll want to consider when picking a plan.
Mobile Hot Spot Tethering: Most eSIM plans don’t allow you to use your phone as a mobile hot spot.
NOTE: You can still use iMessage to “text” between Apple iPhones but you can’t send messages between iPhones and Android phones. Or you can download WhatsApp to send messages over data (which is what most of the world is already doing).

Holafly Unlimited Data USA Prepaid eSIM Data Plan

Holafly is a Spain-based eSIM startup that offers multiple affordable eSIM data plans—including a USA plan. I’ve personally used Holafly and found it worked surprisingly well (read my Holafly eSIM Review to learn more).

Unlike other eSIM providers, Holafly gives you unlimited data (although they’ll throttle your data if you use excessive data) and their plans run from 5 to 90 days. Holafly also connects to the AT&T and T-Mobile networks—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 an excellent option.

Holafly USA eSIM Plan Specs:

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

Three 30-Day Pass USA eSIM

The Three 30-Day Pass is another great eSIM plan that’s hard to beat for the price and data allowance. This data plan gives you 20GB of data for $35 and it’s valid for a month.

Three 30-Day eSIM Plan Specs:

PRICE: $35
DATA: 20GB
INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?: NO
CREDIT VALID FOR: 30 Days

Smart Traveller USA eSIM

The Smart Traveller eSIM is a cheap option for short trips since this plan is only valid for 10 days. If you’re visiting for longer than 10 days, it makes sense to go with Holafly or Three 30-Day Pass .

Smart Traveller eSIM Plan Specs:

PRICE: $18
DATA: 6GB
CREDIT VALID FOR: 10 Days

The Major US Mobile Carriers

Here’s a list of the largest mobile carriers in the USA. You’ll see that it’s hard (sometimes impossible) to find any information about eSIM on their websites. In most cases, the only way to get an eSIM from them is to have a long-term contract and then have their customer service port the eSIM plan to your phone. T-Mobile looks to be your best bet if you want to go this route.

Verizon Wireless: https://www.verizon.com/
AT&T Mobility: https://www.att.com/wireless/
T-Mobile US: https://www.t-mobile.com/
U.S. Cellular: https://www.uscellular.com/
TracFone Wireless (includes brands like Straight Talk, NET10 Wireless, and Total Wireless): https://www.tracfone.com/
Metro by T-Mobile: https://www.metrobyt-mobile.com/

If you want to learn more about data plans with physical SIM cards in the US, check out my guide to the Best SIM Card Data Plans For USA Travel .

More USA Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

I’ve mostly written about NYC travel so here are a few helpful articles for visiting The Big Apple (and beyond):

The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To New York City
Best Hostels in New York City
The Best Things To Do In New York City
Best Cheap Restaurants In New York City
How Much To Budget For Visiting New York City
The Best Travel Shoes
The Best Travel Backpacks and The Best Travel Backpacks for Women
Recent Posts

Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - June 6, 2024
Best Travel Shoes — Fashionable & Comfortable Shoes for Traveling - May 31, 2024
New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024

No Funny Business

The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.

Thanks For Reading! — James

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

Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting the United Kingdom

Best Prepaid eSIM For Italy | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting Italy

phones and technology , Product Reviews

Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly

Testing the unlimited Holafly eSIM data plan to see how it works while traveling in Europe.

City Guides

Choosing travel insurance, travel packing lists, budget travel newsletter.

The best budget travel tips sent straight to your inbox.

Join My Journey

Europe travel tips, advertising & privacy policies.

TheSavvyBackpacker.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Website Design by FHOKE

What Is The Best eSIM for USA? A Complete Guide (2024)

If you search online for ‘the best eSIM for USA’, you’ll get many results from companies claiming they have the best eSIM plans for USA. But, on the other hand, they will probably claim they’ve got the cheapest eSIM plan for the USA too.

So, how do you decipher the best SIM card for visitors to USA?

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

Best eSIM for USA guy with phone with plane

If you’re still skeptical and wondering are eSIMs reliable or not, I’ll explain the answer to that for you too.

This article will explain why an eSIM for travel in the USA is your best option, not to mention how convenient it is to download within minutes to your device. Long gone are the days of wasting precious vacation time trying to get connected after arriving in a new country.

There are a few reasons why the best eSIM for USA is Airalo. Let me explain why these USA eSIM data plans are your cheapest and most convenient option to stay connected on your upcoming trip.

Table of Contents

What is eSIM?

An eSIM is a virtual SIM or digital version of your physical SIM card. An eSIM allows you to activate a cellular plan from a carrier without using a physical SIM. Technology is a beautiful thing!

Essentially, your device or phone already has a microchip installed that allows you (or your newly purchased eSIM data pack ) to install multiple eSIM profiles. It’s equivalent to having several physical SIM cards with phone numbers and data plans plugged into your phone simultaneously.

More about the best eSIM plans USA

The best sim card for visitors to USA is the one that ticks all of the boxes.

eSIM is quick and convenient to download within minutes
Airalo eSIM Data Packs for USA are affordable. View the entire range available here .
Top up within seconds whenever you’re running low on data. Seriously, this is beyond convenient.
When you buy eSIM for USA you don’t need to take out your own physical SIM card – because it’s all digital. It means you’re able to receive messages and calls from home with your original cell phone number, while data roaming on your digital eSIM.

A few years ago, the best SIM card for visitors to USA would have been hard to answer, as so many big companies compete. And, of course, they’re still out there.

The game-changer, however, for the best SIM card for USA in 2023 and beyond is thanks to technology.

Now you can ditch the standard SIM card and get connected with eSIM in the USA. It’s the way of the future.

What is the best SIM card for visitors to the USA?

That’s an easy question to answer. eSIM for travel in the USA is your best option. There are 6 x eSIM data packs to choose from. All data packs are well-suited for your trip to the United States of America.

If you’re a visitor planning to travel to the USA, you must choose the best eSIM for your individual needs. The best eSIM depends on how long you plan to spend in the country.

Furthermore, it would help to consider how much data you are likely to use to get the best value from your eSIM for USA.

If you regularly use wifi during your travels (hotels and restaurants usually offer these free of charge), you might want to go with the smaller plan ( $11 for 3GB of data, valid for 30 days ).

Yet, if you depend on cell phone coverage for your data, you might want a plan that includes more data. I’d recommend either this $26 for 10GB eSIM or the 20GB data pack for $42 . Both data packs have 30 days of validity.

The below list may also be the cheapest eSIM plan USA you will find online – and they work like a dream!

CHOOSE FROM 6 x ESIM DATA PACKAGES FOR THE USA:

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

the best esim for USA Airalo 6 data packs

Are you travelling to other countries too? Consider a Global eSIM

Suppose you’re visiting the USA as part of a bigger adventure that may include nearby countries such as Canada or Mexico. In that case, a Global eSIM may be what you’ve been searching for.

These Global eSIM Data packs will save you lots of money and effortlessly connect you in multiple countries as you travel.

My favourite thing about being a world traveller, is the Global eSIM. It covers a staggering 87 countries included in one eSIM, and they start at just $9 for 1GB , valid for seven days.

The most significant data pack available is 20GB for $89 , valid for 180 days! This combines the best eSIM USA with 86 other countries. Wow!

CHOOSE FROM 5 x GLOBAL eSIM DATA PACKS

1GB data for 7 days – $9 USD
3GB data for 15 days – $24 USD
5GB data for 35 days – $35 USD
10GB data for 50 days – $59 USD
20GB data for 180 days – $89 USD

I use Global eSIM frequently as I travel the world. Even if it’s just a few days, it offers peace of mind to stay connected in 87+ countries. Now, that’s pretty amazing.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

Save money and time with the best eSIM for the USA

Do you agree that this is the best SIM card for visitors to USA yet? Honestly, eSIM is my new favourite travel product for the past few years – it’s unbeatable!

I even wrote this Airalo eSIM product review for 2022 to explain why.

Is eSIM easy to download to my device?

Absolutely! But before you go ahead and buy an eSIM for USA or even a Global eSIM for travel (that includes the USA) , remember to double-check that your device is compatible. So, what phones are eSIM compatible?

Is iPhone 11 eSIM compatible? How about compatibility with iPhone 14 eSIM?

You can check if it’s compatible here . In saying that, most devices will support eSIM, but a handful does not.

How to Download eSIM to your Device

Once you have checked that your device supports eSIM, you can go ahead.

Download the Airalo App , purchase your selected data package and follow the steps to activate the eSIM for the USA just before your arrival.

Before you arrive in the USA, be sure you switch from your home mobile provider to the eSIM provider.

Once your eSIM is activated, I recommend that you turn off data for all apps you don’t use daily, and apps that use a lot of data: Netflix, Instagram, and TikTok will eat up your data quickly. Try to leave social media scrolling when you get connected to Wi-Fi at your hotel or cafe.

Your data will last much longer.

Easily top up your eSIM within minutes

And, if you don’t care too much about churning through your data, eSIM is perfect for you. You can easily top up your eSIM with more data whenever you’ve reached your limit.

I told you it’s fantastic!

Best eSIM for USA girl with mobile phone

Are eSIMs reliable? Why eSIM for USA is the best choice

If you travel to the USA, you certainly still have the option to purchase a local SIM card at any major airport or phone store/provider.

Of course, this allows you to make calls and send text messages within the country where you purchased the SIM card. It also gives you access to local calling rates and data. Buying a sim card in the USA at the airport will usually cost much more than getting a sim card in the city centre, so be aware of that.

However, I believe purchasing an eSIM card for the USA is a much better option than buying a local SIM in the USA:

You can download an eSIM before your departure from home, instead of purchasing one in the USA. If you’ve got a prepaid eSIM activated upon arrival, then you can get online as soon as you touch down in the USA! Avoid the crowds, exit the arrivals hall and go and explore straight away!

It’s incredibly convenient. This virtual e sim card for the USA is the way forward.

You can start exploring the 15 Best Places to Travel in the USA right away!

Get 15% off your first eSIM purchase with my referral code: NOMAD15

SAVE cash when you buy an eSIM for USA or any other Airalo eSIM. Use my referral code: NOMAD15 to get 15% off your first purchase!

If you’re an existing Airalo User, use code NOMAD10 to get 10% off your next purchase.

More Travel Tips

We have so many tips to help you travel more!

These 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you stretch your hard-earned dollars further.

Read our top 6 travel hacks to save money and the 20 best travel apps to make travel easier!

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies. And, if history is your thing, these 30 amazing historical places worldwide will fascinate you!

We have many tips to save money for travel and consider these 20 jobs that PAY YOU to travel the world to help you travel longer.

If you become a trusted housesitter , you can also get FREE accommodation worldwide. Read more about how this works .

Check out our ultimate packing list for travellers , and remember to pack travel insurance! We recommend these two travel insurance companies for excellent coverage.

Our 12 essential tips for safe travel in any country are worth a read.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling the world. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual countries , or consider a Global eSIM if you travel to multiple countries or regions. This eSIM connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM .

The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Get the best deals on worldwide group tours with Tourradar .

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation : Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo) & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours : G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips : GetYourGuide & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage : Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack or Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack: Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good power bank . To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter: Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE & Revolut are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶 Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear and Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

Tasty Food Adventures

Top 5 Popular Foods in South America

20 Most Popular Foods from Iraq – Iraqi Cuisine

Top 5 Best Street Foods in Asia

Food of Libya – 10 Most Popular Foods

See all Food Adventure blogs

Expert Travel Guides

11 Caribbean Islands Best Beaches to Visit

How to Visit Iceland on a Budget + Campervan Iceland Tips

How to Get an East Timor Visa on Arrival

10 Amazing Countries Open for Vaccinated Tourists

See all our Travel Guides

Trusted Hints & Tips

7 Tips: How to Find the Best Food when Travelling

12 Essential Tips for Safe Travel

Backpack vs Suitcase – Which One Should You Choose?

The 11 Best Travel Websites To Save Money

See all our expert Hints & Tips

United States of America

8 Best Things to Do in Laurel MS

Best Food New York City – Top 10 Eats

4 comments . leave new.

Thank you! Just wondering, do I turn data roaming off on my daughters phone before leaving for the USA while using eSIM? I don’t want to occur roaming fees etc but I still want to call her or FaceTime etc. (14 and leaving Canada for the first time alone )

Hi Becky, Yes. Before leaving, turn OFF the data-roaming on your daughters phone (and ask her to leave it off while she’s there), then turn ON the data roaming on her USA eSIM.

You don’t mention which ones come with a local number. While travelling N America we have relatives that live in the US that may wish to call us, a local number is essential.

The best thing about downloading an eSIM is that you can keep your own number. The eSIM for USA is data only, which means you can easily communicate (call/text) with relatives in the USA, however, do it through an App that uses data such as WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

What is the Best eSIM for USA?

The United States has it all – from the bright lights of New York to the quaint French Quarter of New Orleans. From white-knuckle rides at Universal Studios Hollywood to majestic waterfalls in Yosemite National Park.

I have been fortunate to explore much of the United States by road over several trips. My favourite area has to be Utah and Arizona – it’s heaven on earth for nature buffs.

Regardless of where you spend your vacation, in concrete jungles or untamed wilderness, there’s one thing you should pack before anything else … a reliable mobile internet connection with far-reaching coverage. It’s a fundamental ingredient for a smooth holiday.

However, learning the ins and outs of a foreign country’s telecommunication networks can feel daunting. That’s why I recommend skipping the headaches and arranging a travel-friendly eSIM for the USA before you leave home.

It’s surprisingly easy and won’t put a dent in your wallet.

Tip: The United States is a very big country, so unsurprisingly you may encounter mobile network dead zones in more remote places. To complement your mobile phone, I suggest picking up an affordable mesh device, such as goTenna Mesh , as a communication tool in backcountry areas. It might just save your life.

eSIM vs Physical SIM?

Embedded Subscriber Identity Module (eSIM) launched publicly in 2017 as the future of mobile telephony. This software-based solution was designed to replace the old physical SIM cards that you’re probably familiar with – and if you’re like me, more than once or twice you’ve wrangled an old twisted paperclip to try and open that annoying slot tray on the side of your phone.

Instead of buying an old-school plastic SIM card in the USA, you can now browse between carriers on your phone or laptop and make an online purchase with instant delivery and activation. No need to drive to a store, or wait days for a courier. You’ll be online as soon as you step off the plane.

The increased ease of switching is driving mobile providers to offer more competitive pricing and better service. I won’t complain about that.

Why Buy an eSIM for USA?

Chances are if you are located outside North America, your regular mobile provider will charge through the roof for international data roaming.

A travel-friendly eSIM enables you to keep your “home” SIM active for voice and text while utilising a second active data connection in the United States.

This solution is perfect for vacations anywhere between 3 days and 3 months. Anything longer, and you might be better off picking up a regular local SIM.

Phones Compatible with a USA eSIM

If you’ve purchased a new phone in the last couple of years, there’s a good chance it might support eSIM. Check this page for a comprehensive list of phone, tablet, and laptop models that support eSIMs.

Even if your handset supports eSIM, there’s one more hoop to jump through. Check that your device is unlocked – that means it’s not tied exclusively to the network you’re currently using.

Phones purchased from carriers at a small (or no) upfront cost are frequently locked to the network so the carrier makes a return on their investment in you.

If you’re not sure about your phone’s network lock status, try calling your carrier’s helpdesk or borrowing a friend’s SIM card if they are on a different network. Here are instructions for alternative methods for checking your phone’s network lock status.

Mobile Network Coverage in USA

Coverage is everything. Unlike Europe which has a fragmented mobile market with different providers in each of the 44 countries within the EU, the United States has only 3 main mobile providers – Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile (Sprint was bought out by T-Mobile in April 2020).

4G LTE coverage of the country varies greatly with Verizon at 70% and Sprint (prior to the acquisition) around 30%. So be careful – not all networks are the same.

AT&T tends to offer the best balance between value, fast network speeds, and broad coverage. If you’re planning on visiting more remote locations in the US, check out this interactive coverage map .

However, purchasing an eSIM from AT&T as a foreigner is a pain in the ass (just like in the UK ). They aren’t known for wonderful customer service. So, if you choose a travel-friendly eSIM provider that uses the AT&T network, then you can get the best of both worlds – solid customer support AND great coverage. If the eSIM provider does not clearly state which network they use, you can assume they are going to cut corners and you may end up with an inferior service.

Holafly uses the AT&T network, so you’re guaranteed to get extensive coverage all over the United States.

How to Install and Activate an eSIM

Once you’ve checked that your device is compatible, simply follow the checkout steps on the eSIM provider’s website or mobile app. These are pretty standard – providing contact details, phone, email, and then payment details. Within a few minutes, you’ll receive an email that contains a unique QR code. Scan this on your phone and you’re done.

Tip: To avoid wastage, only complete the scan when you’re ready to start using your plan – not before you leave home. Unfortunately, there’s no “undo” button.

Here are detailed step-by-step activation instructions for the most popular handsets: iPhone , Samsung Galaxy , Google Pixel , Huawei , Motorola Razr .

Compare the Best eSIM Plans for USA

Congratulations… you’ve got this far! Now we get to the juicy part.

You might assume the “big 3” mobile providers in the US are the best place to start, but that’s simply not true. They’re more geared up towards the domestic market, and compared to their international counterparts, leave a lot to be desired in terms of user-friendliness.

Your best option is a dedicated travel-oriented eSIM specialist which utilises one of the big US networks. I’ve compared the best players in the industry to save you time – combing through their fine print, comparing the depth of support resources, trying out their online purchasing flow, and scrounging through customer reviews.

When comparing USA eSIM plans, the most critical aspect is the amount of data available (measured in GB) and the length of validity (in days). But also remember to check the list of compatible devices.

Here are the best prepaid USA eSIM plans and providers:

Recommended:

New in June 2022: now supports unlimited data plans & eSIM top-ups (first in the industry!)
Includes: data only
Compatible with: iOS and Android
Hotspot tethering: no for most locations, as of June 2022 due to unlimited plans ( see FAQ )
Network in US: AT&T

5 days, unlimited: $19

10 days, unlimited: $34

15 days, unlimited: $47

20 days, unlimited: $54

30 days, unlimited: $64

60 days, unlimited: $84

Comment: best balance between data allowance and low pricing, and the only option for power users with unlimited data usage. Don't worry about checking your usage every day. Phew!

Discount: Save 5% on Holafly's eSIMs with our exclusive code " TRAVELWITHBENDER ".

Compatible with: iOS, Google Pixel
Hotspot tethering: supported
Network in US: unclear

1 day, 1GB: $9.99

15 days, 3GB: $24.99

30 days, 5GB: $39.99

Comment: may work for ultra-light data usage, but too easy to run out of data and not compatible with all Android devices

7 days, 3GB: $30

15 days, 5GB: $50

30 days, 10GB: $86

Comment: ok for ultra-light usage over a longer period when promo discounts are active

Not Recommended:

Ubigi - unreliable support

How Much Data do I Need in USA?

Your mobile phone is an extension of yourself. And when on vacation, it’s no different.

The way you use your phone will vary from the next traveller. So, when predicting how much mobile data you’ll need, think about how often you use your phone as well as the type of apps used – reading emails (without attachments) uses very little data, but scrolling through TikTok videos chews through a lot of data.

If you don’t know the difference between a “megabyte” and “gigabyte”, this easy-to-use tool will help demystify the jargon and estimate your usage.

As a rough guide, most travellers who use their phone each day should aim at 6-10GB per month.

Light users will flick through social media and upload the odd image of chowing on a pizza slice in Times Square, New York. 100-400MB of data per day should be plenty.
Mid-range users may download large app updates, browse high-resolution photos on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest, and stream travel videos on TikTok and YouTube, so data usage can add up very quickly. Between 300-500MB of data per day should suffice.
Heavy users may setup a hotspot and connect their laptop to download large attachments for work, or run offsite backups. That could drive up data usage to 500-800MB per day.

Important USA eSIM Hacks

Don’t delete eSIM if the data plan expires

Check the provider’s policy on deleting the eSIM. Typically, when your data plan expires your actual eSIM is still valid, at least for a period of time. So don’t delete it in case you want to use it again in the future. Or if you run out of data, many prepaid eSIMs don’t support top-ups like a traditional SIM, but rather offer additional eSIMs to “extend” your service. So, get familiar with the process before you find yourself in that position.

Check the fine print of your home SIM

Avoid “bill shock” and familiarise yourself with your phone so you know how to activate a specific SIM/eSIM. If your home SIM provides cheap (or free) call/text roaming then it would be worth keeping that active while also using your USA eSIM just for data. Follow these steps for configuring multiple SIMs on iOS and Android .

The Bottom Line

The United States is the land of limitless possibilities. And your mobile phone should reflect that.

Wifi hotspot hopping and slow roaming data speeds is sooooo 2012. To get the most out of your trip to North America, pick up a USA eSIM from my preferred supplier, Holafly , and your vacation will be more magical than all the combined fairy dust in Disneyland.

Just don’t tell Mickey I said that.

Best Free eSIM Plan for Travel: Try Before You Buy

I’m always looking for travel hacks to save money and get more bang for my buck. I recently came across an established international eSIM provider that has just started offering a…

11 Best Destinations in Southeast Asia for Digital Nomads

Ah, the digital nomad life! Working from exotic locales, sipping coconuts by day and coding away by night. If you're itching to embark on a Southeast Asian adventure while keeping…

Road Trip Comparison: RV Rental vs Tent Camping vs Hotels

I often get asked… should I rent an RV? Let me start off by saying that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for every traveller. A lot of it depends on personal preference,…

How to Prevent the 34 Worst Travel Problems

I’m not trying to discourage you from getting on a plane – quite the opposite. I want you to return to your home after the trip with a broader perspective of the world, a more open…

Which Carriers Support eSIM in Germany?

Germany is an exciting destination for any traveller. From bustling Berlin to the quaint charms of Cologne, Germany offers something for everyone. Firstly, you'll need a mobile…

What is the Best eSIM for New York with Unlimited Data

For visitors, New York generously offers a dizzying range of activities. But the first thing you'll need is a prepaid data plan for your smartphone. I've compared dozens of options…

How to Find Cheap Flights with eDreams

Discover the steps I use to find cheap flights on eDreams and the 5 reasons why I choose this online travel agency.

Is eDreams Legit & Reliable?

Have you heard of eDreams, but are not quite sure if it's safe to use? Before you spend your hard-earned money with them, let me take you through the story of eDreams and the…

How To Get a UK eSIM for Travellers

Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom? If you are, congrats! The Land of the Rose Isle has so much to offer its visitors. But before you start packing your bags, there's…

How to Choose an Australia eSIM for Travel

If you’re visiting Australia from Asia, Europe, or North America, then chances are you'll want to use your fancy new smartphone on vacation. But what if you don’t have a local SIM…

Reader Comments...

Hi, My Name is Rahul Verma Thanks for giving very helpful information Good Work sir keep it up.

Thank you for the great info.

Write Your Comment

Please DO NOT include links, URLs or HTML in your comments - they will be automated deleted and you will waste your time.

HOT: My top 48 photos of 2022 .

My name is Josh and I'm an Aussie who has been travelling the world non-stop for 12 years , and explored 70+ countries so far. I'll help make your next vacation awesome with first-hand guides and essential travel tips.

(click my smiling face to find out more)

Latest Post

17 Things To Do In Bali For Couples

Bali is a haven for couples of all ages. I recently returned to Bali for my 20th visit, and I was inspired to explore parts of the island I had not seen before, as well as revisit…

Travel Hacks

What is the best eSim for USA travel?

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: April 12, 2023 - Last updated: March 20, 2024

Looking for the best eSim card for your upcoming USA trip? Look no further! We've got you covered with the best options out there, so you can stay connected without breaking the bank. Check out our top picks and get ready to enjoy your vacation!

Are you a frequent traveler headed to the United States?

Then you’ve probably already asked yourself, “What’s the best eSim for USA travel ?”

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, having an international roaming plan that fits your needs and budget can be tricky.

In fact, eSIM Europe and eSIM USA have been game changers since they allow us to stay connected as we travel!

This blog post will provide insight into the best eSims currently available, including their cost structures and features.

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough of eSIMs? Have a look at my other posts:

What is the best eSIM for France?
Best eSIM for UK
What’s the best eSim for Europe?

My top pick: Holafly

a hand holding a phone with a screen saying sim and esim

If you’re traveling to the USA and need a reliable and hassle-free way to stay connected, then Holafly’s eSim is definitely the way to go.

As someone who has used this service several times, I can confidently say it’s a game changer. You can also read my Holafly review .

Holafly’s eSim card provides seamless connectivity and reliable data service wherever you go in the US.

I absolutely love the convenience of not worrying about replacing or losing a physical SIM card ever again.

With Holafly, all you need to do is scan a QR code, and boom, you’re good to go!

It’s honestly one of my favorite apps for international travel !

Factors to Consider When Choosing an eSim for USA Travel

Stay connected during your travel and flight, Man using public phone charging station at the airport

When choosing the eSIM for USA travel, you should go through all the following details to have a sound knowledge about what you are buying is a suitable tourist eSIM USA.

Network Coverage:

Choosing an eSim for USA travel is very important to access basic communication services so network selection should be your first priority.

There are many abandoned places in USA where finding coverage is already a miracle. Hence make sure to consider this while planning your trip.

The first factor to consider is the eSIM provider’s network coverage. Ensure that the eSIM offers coverage in all the areas you plan to visit in the USA.

Different providers have varying coverage areas, and it’s essential to check the coverage map before purchasing.

If want a great US eSIM card for Canadian travellers, this will be a great choice.

a6ae1492c2025dc8570c8bd4bda9e355d58d3688 - What is the best eSim for USA travel?

WISH SETTING UP AN eSIM WAS EASY?

It can be with your free checklist!

Exact steps to follow
Easy instructions
Have your eSim ready to use in seconds

Check your inbox to download your free eSim checklist! Don’t forget to check your Spam too 🙂

Compare the cost of different eSIM plans to find the best value for your budget.

Consider the amount of data, voice, and text messaging included in the plan, as well as any additional fees and charges.

With an eSIM, users can choose from a variety of data plans offered by different providers, allowing them to find the most affordable plan that suits their needs.

Data speed is the most useful feature for anyone who loves using the Internet, which is, well, everyone.

Ensure to check the data speeds once you complete your prepaid eSIM USA activation process.

Choose an eSIM that offers fast data speeds and easy activation.

eSIM is particularly useful for travelers as they can easily activate a local plan or a roaming plan without having to purchase a physical SIM card.

Compatibility with device

Ensure that the eSIM you choose is compatible with your device.

Different US eSIM for tourists may have varying compatibility with device models.

To avoid compatibility issues, purchase the eSIM that works seamlessly with your device.

Customer support

Choose a provider that offers reliable and responsive customer support.

Good customer support can assist you in resolving any issues that may arise during your stay in the USA.

By selecting an eSIM provider with excellent customer support, you ensure assistance whenever you need it.

Top Prepaid eSims for USA

Here’s a table listing the ten best eSIM USA providers, along with their useful features:

Best prepaid eSim for USA

person holding mobile phone with black case searching how to avoid roaming charges

Holafly’s USA eSim has emerged as the winner in the battle of the best eSIM for USA travel.

Its prepaid eSIM USA tourist offers reliable coverage across the country.

For affordable pricing for data, voice, and text messaging services, easy activation online, compatibility with a wide range of devices, and good customer support, Holafy has it all.

This makes it a cost-effective, easy-to-use, and reliable option for travelers visiting the USA .

Overall, Holafly eSIM prepaid USA is the best USA eSIM option for travelers who need to stay connected during their visit to the USA.

Its ease of activation makes it a popular choice for those looking for a hassle-free and reliable connection.

Travel tips for using an eSim for USA travel

where to stay in milwaukee downtown, wisconsin, where to stay near milwaukee airport, a landscape view of milwaukee wisconsin during a sunset on a building

As a frequent traveler, I can attest that staying connected during trips abroad can be challenging and expensive. Luckily, using an eSim for USA travel can be a game-changer.

The eSim is an electronic sim card that can be downloaded onto your phone, allowing easy connectivity wherever you go.

No need to worry about purchasing a physical sim card or dealing with network restrictions.

With an eSim, you can access data, make calls, and send messages without constantly searching for Wi-Fi.

Plus, using an eSim for USA travel is cost-effective as it eliminates the need for roaming charges.

So, if you’re planning a trip to the United States, check out eSim options and streamline your connection worries.

My final thoughts on the best eSim for USA

blond girl at beach during sunset with phone

Hiking in Wisconsin , USA has never been more fun because now I can talk to my friends and family while enjoying the heights thanks to my eSim for USA travel.

I have used Holafly on my recent trips and I couldn’t be happier with their service. Therefore it’s for me the best eSim USA travel.

With USA ESIM tourists enjoy hassle-free connectivity throughout their travels.

Even when you travel from another country, it is best eSIM for travel to USA from Canada as there are regional eSIMs available.

Holafly can also be used as an eSIM for USA travel from UK or Europe.

You too can easily stay connected with your dear ones via a USA eSIM while making the most of your trip.

No need to worry about running out of balance or having no signals.

FAQs about best eSim for travel to USA

view from the lake of the Private Lakehouse on Great Lake Superior in Wisconsin

With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.

That’s where I, Paulina, come in. As a frequent traveler myself, I understand the importance of staying connected while on the road.

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about the best eSim for travel to the USA.

What is the best eSim to use for travel to the USA?

The best eSIMs for USA depends on your specific needs and preferences. Some popular options include Google Fi, Holafly , and Airalo , each offering competitive data plans and coverage. It’s advisable to compare their features, pricing, and network coverage to determine which one aligns best with your travel requirements.

How easy is it to activate an eSim for travel to the USA?

Activating an eSIM for travel to the USA is generally straightforward. Most eSIM providers offer user-friendly mobile apps or websites where you can select your plan, scan the QR code, and follow simple activation instructions. The process typically takes a few minutes, allowing travelers to quickly access data and stay connected upon arrival in the USA.

What are the advantages of using an eSim when traveling to the USA?

Firstly, it eliminates the need to physically swap SIM cards, making it convenient and hassle-free. Secondly, eSIMs often provide access to multiple carriers, ensuring better network coverage and connectivity. Lastly, eSIMs allow travelers to easily switch between data plans, enabling cost-effective and flexible data usage during their stay in the USA.

What are the potential fees associated with using an eSim in the USA?

The potential fees associated with using an eSIM in the USA may include the initial purchase price of the eSIM itself, which can vary by provider. Additional fees may apply for data plans, depending on the amount of data and duration of usage. It’s essential to review the pricing details of your chosen eSIM provider carefully to understand any possible charges, such as overage fees or taxes, that may apply during your stay.

How do I find the best eSim plan for my travels in the USA?

To find the best eSIM plan for your travels in the USA, start by assessing your specific needs, such as data requirements, duration of stay, and coverage preferences. Then, research and compare eSIM providers based on factors like data allowances, network coverage, and pricing. Reading user reviews and checking for special offers or discounts can also help you make an informed decision and find the eSIM plan that aligns best with your travel requirements.

If you're looking for the best eSim for traveling in the United States, look no further! We've got all the info you need on which carrier to choose and how to get set up. Happy travels!

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

Share full article

Supported by

Attention, Travelers: Now Is the Best Time to Switch to eSIM

The digital version of the SIM card, included on many newer phones, is set to become prevalent. It also offers affordable cellular data abroad.

By Brian X. Chen

Brian X. Chen is The Times’s lead consumer technology writer and the author of Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use.

As vacation season looms, now is as good a time as ever to bite the bullet and become familiar with a smartphone feature that many of us have ignored for years: the eSIM, the digital version of the SIM card that carries your phone number.

Among many benefits, eSIM technology is a boon for travelers, and pretty soon we will all be using it because the physical SIM card will be no more. Let me explain.

Last year, Apple eliminated the SIM card tray from the iPhone 14 to free up space. That means the SIM card, which acts as a key that connects your phone with cellular networks, is being phased out for Apple phones.

Where Apple leads, others typically follow, so you can expect handset makers like Samsung and Google to also go all-in on eSIM — a digitized SIM card embedded into the phone’s computer chip that you can activate with any cellular network’s service plan.

“Whether we like it or not, it’s coming,” Roger Entner, a telecom expert and founder of the research firm Recon Analytics, said about eSIM technology.

But this move isn’t really all about Apple. The Federal Communications Commission also favors eSIM technology , because it makes it easier for people to switch to a different carrier by using software instead of going to a store for a physical SIM card. And the technology has security benefits: If your phone is stolen, thieves can’t remove an eSIM to hijack your phone number and commit identity theft, as they could with a physical SIM card.

Most important, the experience of using eSIM data plans for travel has greatly improved. About five years ago, eSIM data plans for international roaming were overpriced, and cell service was sometimes unreliable. But in the last year, I’ve tested a few eSIM services when I left the country and found them to be cost-effective and zippy.

As is always the case with new technology, there are downsides. Activating a data plan on a foreign network with an eSIM is not as straightforward as sticking a different SIM card into your phone. The process is especially challenging for those who are less familiar with technology, putting the onus on more tech savvy companions to help them make the switch.

There are also privacy concerns. Many eSIM service providers offer apps that collect your data for tracking purposes.

You can use my experience as a template for navigating the inevitable transition to eSIM. Recently, I tried eSIM data plans when traveling with several members of my family and acted as their tech sherpa through the switch.

Step 1: Pick an eSIM

The main reason to use eSIM services for travel is to save money. The big U.S. carriers, like AT&T and Verizon, offer international roaming options, including $10 day passes for using your phone in foreign countries. The costs quickly add up for a two-week trip with family.

In contrast, an eSIM data package that can be used for the entirety of your trip costs a few dollars. The tricky part is choosing an eSIM service provider because there are many, and most are unfamiliar brands like Airalo, GigSky and Flexiroam. (Apple provides a list of eSIM service providers on its website.)

For a recent weeklong trip to Montreal, I researched travel blogs and picked Nomad , which offered a gigabyte of data that could be used for seven days in Canada for $7. I had the option to activate the plan with Nomad’s app or by following setup instructions on the company’s website. The app had high reviews in the App Store, so I clicked the download button.

Step 2: Activate the eSIM Service

A nice thing about eSIM is that you can buy a plan and set up the service on your phone well in advance of a trip, then activate it when you arrive at your destination. After you buy a plan, the eSIM service provider sends you a list of instructions.

The Nomad app showed a list of steps. In the iPhone’s settings app, I clicked on the cellular menu, clicked “Add eSIM” and typed in an activation code. As I crossed the border into Canada, I went back into the cellular settings, selected the Nomad phone line and toggled on the option for “Turn on this line.”

(If you still use a physical SIM card for your domestic phone line, you need not remove it. In the phone’s cellular settings, you just switch off the service for your primary line to avoid roaming charges.)

After I picked this eSIM plan, I shared the Nomad app with my wife and brother-in-law, who each followed the instructions to set it up by themselves. I didn’t know how to advise my mother-in-law, who never downloads apps, how to set up the plan, so I did it for her.

Herein lies the real problem: Less tech-inclined folks are probably not going to know how to use eSIM services. When my mother-in-law went on a trip to Hong Kong alone and I wasn’t nearby to set up the service for her, I told her to pay for AT&T’s international roaming plan and find a store later to buy a SIM card from a Hong Kong phone carrier.

Terry Guo, a chief product officer of LotusFlare, the company that developed Nomad, agreed that the main demographic of travelers using eSIM service plans comprised younger, more tech-savvy people.

“We are doing a lot of work in the app to make this simpler,” he said.

Optional (but Important) Step: Protect Your Privacy

Another downside to eSIM services is privacy-related. All the eSIM service providers I researched in Apple’s App Store said in their app descriptions that they did some tracking of users across different apps and websites.

Toni Toikka, the chief executive of Alekstra, a company that helps businesses reduce their wireless bills, underlined the importance of safeguarding personal information from eSIM providers. He said many of these companies, known as mobile virtual network operators, had struggled to generate profit.

“One way they think they’ll make money is selling your information,” Mr. Toikka said. “That’s why you should always opt out of any tracking. You shouldn’t sell yourself for pennies on a dollar.”

Mr. Guo said that the Nomad app contained Google’s analytics technology to see how people were using the app, and that people who logged into the app with their Facebook accounts could also be tracked by Facebook.

A simple workaround to data collection is to avoid logging into an app with third-party sites like Facebook and Google. Apple users can also click “Ask app not to track” when opening an eSIM app for the first time.

Android users don’t have the option to ask apps not to track them, so their best option is to buy the eSIM plan from the company’s website and set up the service without downloading the app.

Bottom Line

Overall, the pros of eSIM outweigh the cons. Traveling with a smartphone with SIM cards wasn’t relaxing because you needed to carry a pin to eject the card tray; plus you had to make sure not to lose the tiny SIM card.

When returning from a trip using eSIM services, all you have to do is go back into the phone’s settings app and switch your domestic phone line back on. That simplicity and peace of mind make eSIM worth the hassle.

Brian X. Chen is the lead consumer technology writer for The Times. He reviews products and writes Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use. Before joining The Times in 2011, he reported on Apple and the wireless industry for Wired. More about Brian X. Chen

Tech Fix: Solving Your Tech Problems

Make Your Smartphone Last Longer: Google and Samsung used to update smartphone software for only three years, but the new number is seven. Here’s why the change is happening .

Will A.I. Voice Assistants Take Off?: Meta, Google and others are driving a renaissance for voice assistants, but people have found the technology uncool for more than a decade.

Switching From iPhone to Android: Even if you manage to ditch your iPhone, Apple’s hooks are still there .

Trying Meta’s Smart Glasses: What happens when a columnist and a reporter use A.I. Ray-Bans to scan groceries, monuments and zoo animals? Hilarity, wonder and lots of mistakes ensued .

Ditch Your Wallet: Using your phone as a digital wallet is attainable , but it requires preparation and some compromise.

Best sellers

Regional plans

North America
Latin America
United Kingdom

All destinations

Bosnia and Herzegovina
Central African Republic
Democratic Republic of Congo
Dominican Republic
Czech Republic
El Salvador
Faroe Islands
Isle of Man
Ivory Coast
Liechtenstein
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Puerto Rico
Republic of Congo
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
South Korea
St. Pierre and Miquelon
Switzerland
The Netherlands
Trinidad and Tobago
Turks and Caicos
United Arab Emirates

You haven't added products to the cart

Total: EUR € 0,00

Continue shopping

Choose a currency

Suggested languages

iPhone XS Max

iPhone 11 Pro

iPhone 11 Pro Max

iPhone SE (2020)

iPhone 12 Mini

iPhone 12 Pro

iPhone 12 Pro Max

iPhone 13 mini

iPhone 13 Pro

iPhone 13 Pro Max

iPhone SE (2022)

iPhone 14 Plus

iPhone 14 Pro

iPhone 14 Pro Max

iPad Pro (2018 and onwards)

Watch series 3

Watch series 4

Watch series 5

Watch series 6

Pixel 6 Pro

Pixel 7 Pro

P40 Pro (not including the P40 Pro +)

Mate 40 Pro

Galaxy Z Flip

Galaxy Z Flip 5G

Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

Galaxy Z Flip4

Galaxy Fold

Galaxy Z Fold2 5G

Galaxy Z Fold3 5G

Galaxy Z Fold4

Galaxy S21+ 5G

Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

Galaxy S22+

Galaxy S22 Ultra

Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G

Galaxy Note 20

Galaxy S23+

Galaxy S23 Ultra

Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G

Rakuten Mini

Find X3 Pro

Find X5 Pro

Xperia 10 III Lite

Xperia 10 IV

Xperia 1 IV

Xperia 5 IV

Magic 4 Pro

Aquos Sense6s

Check out our guide on how to find out if my device is eSIM compatible or contact us on our online chat

If there have been changes in your plans and you no longer need your Holafly eSIM, we will provide you with a full refund .

If you purchased the eSIM and it turned out to be incompatible with your device, we will provide you with a full refund .

If your eSIM doesn't work due to an issue with Holafly or the network infrastructure of the destination country has problems and is unstable, we can offer you a full or partial refund .

eSIM with Unlimited Data in USA

€ 8,00 Original price was: €8,00. € 6,00 Current price is: €6,00. EUR

Based on 38,464 reviews on

Description

Technical Specs

Unlimited data

Fast and reliable internet

No more roaming charges

Get unlimited data on your trip to USA.
Receive your QR code and connect instantly.
Easy to set up.
No registration required. Easy to set up.
Connect to the best network in USA.
Customize the duration of your plan to fit your needs

Buy an international eSIM for USA and never pay for roaming again. Connect to unlimited Internet at 3G/4G/LTE/5G speed in minutes and stay in touch with your family and friends.

It’s easy to start using our services. After your purchase, you will receive a QR code in your email, scan it with your smartphone camera, install and enjoy a fast and stable Internet connection in USA.

Installation: with a QR code or manually
Activation: upon arrival to destination turn on your Holafly eSIM’s data roaming
Compatibility: compatible with all smartphones with eSIM technology enabled. Operation on smartwatches and tablets is not guaranteed. Check compatibility here.
Days of use: customizable plan duration
Delivery time: immediate, after purchase
Plan type: unlimited data
Calls: No, only through apps (VOIP).
Speed: 3G/4G/LTE/5G
Speed reduction: if necessary. Some carriers may reserve the right to apply a Fair Usage Policy
Hotspot: enjoy 500mb per day to share with others.
Coverage: You will enjoy good coverage and speed in USA and other U.S. cities such as Hawaii , New York , Miami , Las Vegas , Los Angeles , San Francisco , etc. If you travel to mountainous or desert areas such as Page or the Grand Canyon, you may experience unstable coverage. If you require any further assistance, please contact our customer service team.
Networks: AT&T

Choose when your plan starts! Install the eSIM before your trip and activate the data upon arrival.

Start enjoying unlimited data

- % discount applied to all plans

Advantages of using Holafly eSIM in USA

Change of plans? No problem at all!

Purchase your Holafly eSIM with added peace of mind. You have up to 6 months to request a refund.

Conoce por qué nuestra eSIM de viajes internacionales es tu mejor elección de datos móviles para tener internet en el extranjero y mantenerte conectado en tu próxima aventura.

Customize your plan

Decide how long you need your eSIM and adjust your plan accordingly! Say goodbye to running out of data or overspending on unused days.

Unlimited data plans

No more top-ups or worrying about running out of data. With a prepaid unlimited data in Spain, you can relax knowing we’ve got you covered.

Keep your WhatsApp number

You can call and message all your contacts on WhatsApp, like you’re in the same country. Don’t lose touch with family and friends.

24/7 customer support

The eSIM is easy to use, but if you have questions or experience technical issues you can reach us by email or our 24 hour chat support. We’re here to help.

Immediate delivery

If you’re in a rush or you’re already traveling, don’t worry about waiting for delivery. We send the Spain eSIM immediately to your email, so you can connect in seconds.

Share your data with family and friends

Share up to 500MB of data daily with family, friends, or fellow travelers. Use your smartphone to create a WiFi network and connect multiple devices.

How does the Holafly eSIM for USA work?

Check your phone is compatible with esim.

Check if your smartphone is compatible now

Buy your prepaid eSIM

Chose the plan that suits you best and buy your eSIM card from our online store.

Scan the QR code

It’s easy. Just scan the QR code we send you and turn on data roaming from your settings. Now you can enjoy browsing the web.

Fast and reliable connection

Clear video calls with no delays
Share stories in just a few seconds
Enjoy creating video content and super fast uploading
Find your way wherever you go!

The best performace in all your apps

Discover the freedom of reliable connectivity with high speed 4G and 5G . Holafly keeps you connected, no matter the adventure!

What you should know about eSIMs

No local phone number.

This virtual SIM only includes data. It does not allow you to make cell phone calls or send SMS messages. You can still use WhatsApp or Skype to call your contacts.

Your phone must support eSIM

Make sure your phone is both unlocked and compatible with eSIM technology.

Install before you travel and take off

Scan the QR code from your smartphone settings and add the data plan. But don’t activate it until you land at your destination. Take the printed QR code on your travels just in case.

We will send you the eSIM to your e-mail

As soon as you complete your purchase, you’ll receive the instructions to install and activate your international travel eSIM and get unlimited internet on your adventure!

Installation instructions with QR code

Manual installation instructions

Holafly eSIM User Reviews

DON’T stress about your phone service when you travel abroad! I used Holafly to travel home to California this year. The instructions were super easy to follow and I had no problems with the service for the whole 20 days that I used it. It was nice not to worry about how much my phone company was going to charge me for service abroad.

I have used your Sim for my trip to the USA! I recommend it 100%. Thank you very much for your service.

I swear that Holafly has a customer service that is to cry with pleasure ;___; In no time will I buy another unlimited data SIM for Japan because the first time it worked wonderfully

A complicated request was solved urgently within 24 hours of traveling. They are wonderful and I recommend it to everyone. Thank you HolaFly team!

Frequently Asked Questions about the United States eSIM

When does my data plan begin?

Your plan activates immediately upon connecting your eSIM to any supported network. For example, if you bought a 1-day plan and you activate your plan at 10 AM, it remains active for a full 24 hours, concluding at 10 AM the following day.

Can I make phone calls and send messages with my Holafly eSIM?

The United States eSIM only allows you to use mobile data. It does not include a local phone number for mobile calls or messages. You can still make calls using apps like WhatsApp.

Which devices work with the eSIM card?

You can check if your smartphone is eSIM compatible here.

When will I receive my eSIM?

Once you purchase your eSIM, you will receive a confirmation email with instructions to install it immediately using a QR code or manual code. Remember that once the eSIM is purchased, it cannot be returned.

Can I keep my WhatsApp number?

You don’t need to do anything to keep your WhatsApp number. You’ll automatically keep your number, contacts and conversations.

How quick is the Holafly eSIM?

The Holafly eSIM offers maximum speed coverage (3G/4G/LTE/5G). But bear in mind that in some areas of limited coverage there may be a lower speed connection.

Do I have to activate data roaming on my device?

Yes. To ensure that your eSIM gets the best coverage, you must turn on data roaming on your mobile settings. This will not incur any additional charges, as long as you have already set up the Holafly eSIM.

What do I do if I delete or lose my eSIM’s QR code?

If you cannot find the code, please contact our 24/7 customer support team at [email protected] or our online chat function. We will resend the code to your email.

What happens if I use up my data or my days of validity?

If you use all your data or run out of days, your eSIM card will no longer work and you will lose internet connection.

What eSIM data plan should I choose?

Whichever is available for your destinations and suits your travel needs better! You can choose plans from 1 to 90 days.

Could the internet speed with my Holafly eSIM be reduced?

In a rare scenario, yes. Operators enforce an international measure called Fair Usage Policy to ensure fair internet usage and allow all users to enjoy optimal connection. This measure might be applied for a period of no more than one (1) day. It’s beyond Holafly’s control, but don’t worry! If this measure affects you, the restriction will be lifted the next day, and you’ll have your original plan speed back.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that can be installed directly into your smartphone or other mobile devices. It is an alternative to the physical, removable SIM card you’re used to.

Can I renew or extend the data on my eSIM?

Yes, you can do so by logging into your customer panel on the Holafly Center. You will find the data plans you can purchase there. Once you’ve made your purchase, it will be activated immediately on the eSIM you have linked.

Can I share data with other devices?

Certainly! With the United States eSIM, you have the capability to share up to 500MB of data per day across devices by creating a WiFi connection using your smartphone. Refer to your device instructions for guidance on setting up a WiFi connection via a mobile hotspot.

How do I set up the eSIM on my device?

After your purchase, we will send a QR code and manual instructions to your email. Either print the QR code or open it on your computer. On your cell phone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan and scan the QR code. Your phone will allow you to assign a specific name to this data plan. You will now be able to switch between your Holafly data plan and the original plan from your provider. The Holafly data plan will only be operational once you arrive at your destination. Once you land, turn on data roaming on your cell phone settings and activate the Holafly data plan. Consult your phone’s user manual for more details on adding a data plan. All eSIM products come with comprehensive set-up instructions.

When should I set up my eSIM?

Set up your eSIM before your departure. Once you reach your destination, just activate the data plan turning on data roaming. We recommend you print the QR code to take it and manual instructions with you on vacation, just in case. Remember that you need internet access to install the eSIM.

How can I check my data balance?

You can manage your eSIMs and access all purchased data plans by logging into your Holafly Center through the Holafly website.

How many times can I use my eSIM card?

If needed or when changing phones during your trip, you can transfer your eSIM. However, note that you can only transfer the eSIM to two devices—the original one and a new one. Once you’ve installed it on a different device than the original, you won’t be able to reinstall it on the original device and you must deliver the eSIM from the original device to install it in the second device.

Can I delete the Holafly eSIM once I’ve used my data?

Yes! But keep in mind that you don’t need to do so. As soon as your plan expires your eSIM will no longer work.

Can I use my SIM card and Holafly eSIM at the same time?

If you are using an Apple device, you can use your SIM card and your eSim at the same time. Choose the Sim card for phone calls and SMS, and Holafly eSIM for data from your device. Please remember that if you leave your Sim card activated, your network provider may apply data roaming charges to receive or make phone calls as well as SMS.

How do I get a refund?

At Holafly we are aware that our users may have unforeseen events after making the purchase. Therefore, you can request a refund in the following circumstances: – You bought the eSIM without checking the compatibility with your cellphone. – You canceled your trip or you no longer need the eSIM. – Our eSIMs generally work fine, but if you experience connection issues, we can provide you with a full or partial refund. Once the refund is approved, you will receive the money on to the same account with which you made the payment. This process can take between 5 to 10 business days. For more details, terms and conditions, we invite you to read our Refund Policy .

To which mobile network will I connect at my destination?

Your eSIM will connect to all the local phone networks that Holafly partners up with. You can review them in the Technical Specs tab.

Is Holafly my best option?

It is! Of course if you ask us which eSIM card is the best, we will naturally answer it’s ours! Why? Because of our unlimited data, the flexibility to select a custom number of days, and many more special features.

1 day unlimited data

Check that your device is compatible with eSIM

Don't worry! We are here for you.

If you have any questions during this process, remember we're here to assist you 24/7 through our Online chat.

Election 2024
Entertainment
Newsletters
Photography
Personal Finance
AP Investigations
AP Buyline Personal Finance
AP Buyline Shopping
Press Releases
Israel-Hamas War
Russia-Ukraine War
Global elections
Asia Pacific
Latin America
Middle East
Election Results
Delegate Tracker
AP & Elections
Auto Racing
2024 Paris Olympic Games
Movie reviews
Book reviews
Personal finance
Financial Markets
Business Highlights
Financial wellness
Artificial Intelligence
Social Media

One Tech Tip: Use a roaming eSIM on your summer travels to avoid cellphone data fees

A SIM card is shown next to a cellphone in this photo taken on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 in London. Physical SIM cards are going away, replaced by eSIMs which make switching cell carriers easier. AP Photo/Kelvin Chan)

A SIM card is shown in this photo taken on Monday, June 10, 2024 in London. Physical SIM cards are going away, replaced by eSIMs which make switching cell carriers easier. AP Photo/Kelvin Chan)

Copy Link copied

LONDON (AP) — For summer trips overseas, a smartphone is essential for most people. How else will you check Google Maps to find your Airbnb, post an Instagram video from the Eiffel Tower, or WhatsApp friends and family back home?

Of course, if you’re using apps that gobble up data while traveling in a foreign country, there’s always a risk of racking up hefty roaming fees from your phone carrier. The solution? An international travel eSIM for your smartphone.

How do you use this technology? Here are some tips.

What’s an eSIM?

If you’ve ever bought a new cellphone, you’re probably familiar with the SIM card. Short for subscriber identity module, the SIM is a little chip the size of a fingernail that fits into a slot on most phones. Without it, you couldn’t get cell service because it contains your account information and phone number.

But physical SIM cards are slowly being replaced by eSIMs — the e stands for embedded — built into newer phones. These digital versions do the same thing and can make life easier, though people used to physical SIMs might find them confusing at first.

Why should I use an eSIM?

They make switching cell carriers easier. And if you’ve bought a new phone recently, you might not even have a choice: Apple got rid of the SIM card tray starting with the iPhone 14 released in September 2022.

Craig Federighi, Apple's senior vice president of software engineering, speaks during an announcement of new products at the Apple campus in Cupertino, Calif., on Monday, June 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

They’re especially beneficial for travelers. If you’ve got a compatible cellphone, you can add an eSIM from a virtual carrier that has better data roaming rates than your home network. Many phones will allow you to add more than one eSIM, making it easy to switch back and forth, or — for phones with the capability — use two at the same time.

Think of the convenience: Gone are the days of arriving in a strange country after a long flight, looking for a local phone company’s airport kiosk, carefully popping open the SIM tray with a pin to swap in the new chip, and trying not to lose the existing one.

Where do I get a roaming eSIM and how much will I pay?

The eSIM market is booming. Kester Mann, director of consumer research at CCS Insight, says there are dozens of providers that can be found online, with names like Nomad, Holafly, Easysim, Airhub and Airalo.

“These guys have a role to play because I think they offer a very affordable and attractive opportunity for international travelers,” Mann said.

The boom means there’s plenty of competition keeping rates low. Prices are typically clearly displayed online, either through a menu of packages on the provider’s website or a calculator based on the amount of data needed and trip length.

Some 800 carriers support eSIMs, according to CCS, so international coverage is extensive. Many eSIM providers offer packages based on country or region, so you can check which ones have good rates for the place you’ll be visiting and sign up in advance. Traveling to Europe and need data for a month covering 30 countries? Airalo offers, for example, 10 gigabytes at $37 while Holafly’s package has unlimited data for 69 euros ($75).

For an upcoming trip to Prague, I bought 5 gigabytes of data for just $5 from Global Yo. I was slightly put off by some negative reviews professing problems buying, installing or activating the company’s eSIMs, but I didn’t have any problems myself.

How do I put an eSIM on my phone?

You’ll need a phone that’s unlocked for use with different wireless carriers.

If you’re not setting up a new phone, the typical activation method is with a QR code, or a more conventional string of numbers and letters. If you’re planning a trip and buy one before you leave, it’s a good idea to print out the code if you don’t want to activate right away.

For iPhones, go to your Settings menu, then to either the Cellular or Mobile Service section, then tap Add eSIM. You’ll be prompted to scan the code, or manually enter it. The process is similar for Android users. Samsung has a guide for Galaxy devices, and Google has a help page for Pixel users, while eSIM carriers have step-by-step instructions. Apple has a YouTube video , as well as tip sheets on using eSIMs for international travel and on using two eSIMs simultaneously.

If you’ve got a phone that supports dual eSIMs, you “can pick potentially the best network based on price and or coverage” while traveling, said Mann.

Some carriers have their own apps to manage eSIMs and track data usage.

How do I know if my cellphone can use an eSIM?

More than 200 devices support the technology, CCS Insight says. U.K. phone company Vodafone has a list of compatible devices. Or dial *#06# — an EID code indicates it’s compatible.

For iPhone users, it’s any model released since the XS, XS Max or XR, as well as recent iPads. They’re compatible with any Samsung Galaxy devices released since 2020, and Google Pixel 4 and newer models will work; some Pixel 3 devices also support them.

Does it always make sense to use a travel eSIM?

First check your own carrier’s roaming costs for the places you’re visiting. Sometimes it’s not worth it.

“Roaming costs these days are far lower and less prohibitive than they once were,” said Mann. They’ve even been abolished for European Union residents crossing the 27-nation bloc’s internal borders. But travelers in Britain, which has left the EU, are facing them again for travel to the continent.

Is there a tech challenge you need help figuring out? Write to us at [email protected] with your questions.

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

All Things Secured

Online Security Made Simple

FREE ONLINE SECURITY CHECKLIST! DOWNLOAD NOW

Best eSIM for International Travel in 2024 (plans compared)

June 11, 2024 By Josh

Gone are the days of buying a SIM card when you land in another country. In fact, most people don’t even need a phone number in their own country anymore. The rise of data-only eSIM has made things so much easier and if you’re in the market, here’s a rundown of the best eSIM for international travel – or just daily life!

Best eSIM service for international travel

TOP RECOMMENDATION

If you’re traveling internationally, Saily is your best eSIM option. With cost-effective local plans in over 150 countries and an intuitive app for easy eSIM activation, it’s got you covered.

An eSIM is quick to activate (you can set it up before you even take off on your journey) and is generally more affordable than SIM cards with roaming costs.

Most modern smartphones now support eSIM functionality, even if they also have a physical SIM card slot. This dual SIM capability lets users enjoy the best of both worlds: a local SIM card and an eSIM for international roaming, providing flexibility and seamless connectivity while traveling abroad.

Key Takeaways

Based on available plans, we believe Saily is the best overall eSIM for international travel, offering the most affordable country-specific data plans across over 150 countries.
For itineraries with multiple destinations, consider Alosim ’s regional bundles or Airalo ’s global plan covering 124 countries as cost-effective options.
Holafly provides unlimited data eSIM plans, best for data-heavy users, though at a premium price compared to limited data plans.
Unique offerings include Alosim’s free international phone number, Airhub’s inclusion of local geographic numbers, and Nomad’s SMS plans to save on roaming fees.

Note: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which means that at no extra cost to you, I may be compensated if you choose to use one of the services listed. I only recommend what I personally have used, and I appreciate your support!

Top 3 eSIMs for International Travel

Here are the top 3 eSIM service options along with a short explanation.

Pretty soon, SIM cards will no longer be used in phones as they get replaced by the more convenient eSIM option. There is a lot of crossover in the offerings of these top eSIM service options, but let’s take a moment to compare them based on the following criteria:

Type of plans (local, regional, global);
Data limits;
Mobile app;
Refund policies;
Customer support;
…and other key factors;

Based on those factors, here is what I discovered about each of the eSIM options.

Saily – Recommended eSIM Option

Saily , a relative newcomer to the eSIM market, was launched in 2024. Although based in the US, it operates under Nord Security, which is headquartered in Lithuania.

The company has rapidly gained popularity among travelers due to its simplicity, reliability, and low-cost offerings.

Saily currently provides data-only plans in over 150 countries, with country-specific options. This means you’ll need to purchase a separate plan for each destination you visit. While this may seem inconvenient, Saily’s affordable pricing makes it a compelling choice for international travelers.

For instance, in the Czech Republic, you can get 1 GB of data valid for 7 days for just $1.99. In the US, the same package costs $3.99, while in Germany, it’s $4.49. Saily offers at least four different data plans, ranging from 1GB/7 days, ideal for short trips, to 20GB/30 days for longer stays.

One notable aspect of Saily is that it currently offers data-only plans, meaning you can’t make traditional phone calls or send SMS messages. However, this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker, as you can still make calls via Skype, WhatsApp, or other VoIP services.

Activation of Saily eSIMs requires using their mobile app, a step not necessary with other eSIM services. However, the activation process is straightforward, with on-screen instructions guiding you through purchasing and activating your plan in a few minutes. If you encounter any issues during activation, Saily offers 24/7 live chat support directly through the app.

In case you’re unable to activate your data plan for some reason, Saily provides a refund option.

Most affordable country-specific plans
Simple and intuitive Android and iOS apps
Backed by the renowned Nord Security brand
Reliable live chat
No global plans or regional plans
Requires the use of the Saily app for eSIM activation

Browse Saily eSIMs

Choose from 150 countries

Alosim – Free Virtual Number

Launched in 2022 by a Canadian tech company, Alosim aims to make prepaid data eSIMs accessible and affordable for the masses.

It currently offers eSIM plans in more than 175 countries, with country-specific options similar to Saily. However, Alosim provides an added facility to purchase data plans that cover multiple regions.

For instance, their Europe plan supports 34 countries and is priced at $5.00 for 1GB valid for 7 days, or $37.00 for 10GB valid for 30 days. Similar regional plans are available for Asia (13 countries), Eastern Europe (11 countries), the Mediterranean (6 countries), South America (9 countries), and more. These regional bundles offer greater flexibility for travelers exploring multiple destinations within a specific area.

But there’s no single Alosim plan with global coverage as of yet, if that’s what you’re after, check out Airhub, Airalo, or Nomad.

What it does have is a handy data calculator to help travelers estimate their data requirements based on their usage patterns.

Furthermore, while Alosim only offers data-only plans like Saily, it provides a complimentary international Hushed phone number for calling and texting. You can choose a number with a Canadian or American area code, which works globally, and enjoy 30 minutes of free calls or 50 free texts.

Moreover, Alosim supports data sharing, allowing you to share your internet connection with friends and family via a hotspot. Their mobile app is user-friendly, and live chat is available for any issues that may arise during setup.

However, it’s worth noting that Alosim doesn’t accept any cancellations or refunds.

Alosim Pros

Regional plans in addition to country-specific plans
Free international Hushed phone number for calls and texts
Data sharing supported
Data calculator to estimate data needs

Alosim Cons

No single plan with global coverage
It doesn’t accept refunds

Browse Alosim eSIMs

Choose from 175+ countries

Airalo – Best Global Plan Options

Airalo , a Singapore-based company, has been providing globetrotters with the convenience of eSIMs since 2012.

With extensive coverage spanning over 200 countries, Airalo leverages strategic partnerships with major carriers like O2 in the UK, Optus in Australia, Verizon, and T-Mobile in the US, among others.

One of Airalo’s standout features is the flexibility to purchase local, regional, or global eSIMs through their app or website. For travelers seeking an eSIM for a single country, it has local plans starting at $4.50 in the US for 1GB of data valid for 7 days.

If you require broader coverage, Airalo provides seven regional plans, including options for the Caribbean Islands and Latin America – regions often overlooked by other eSIM services like Alosim.

Unlike Saily and Alosim, Airalo also offers global eSIMs that cover 124 countries. The pricing for these global plans starts at $9.00 for 1GB of data valid for 7 days and goes up to $69.00 for 20GB of data valid for 365 days.

While Airalo’s local and regional plans are limited to data-only, their global plans come with the option to make calls and send texts at an additional cost. For instance, the cheapest global plan with call and text capabilities is priced at $15.00 and includes 10 minutes of talk time, 10 SMS, and 1GB of data valid for 7 days.

One interesting feature that frequent travelers can benefit from is Airalo’s “Airmoney” program, which rewards customers with credits on every Airalo purchase, redeemable for future purchases.

Additionally, Airalo offers refunds within 30 days of purchase if activation is no longer possible after troubleshooting.

Airalo Pros

Coverage spanning 200 countries, highest on this list
Choose from global, regional, or country-specific plans
Global plans can include calls and SMS
Airmoney program to save costs on top-ups

Airalo Cons

No unlimited data plans
Higher pricing than Saily and Alosim for country-specific plans

Holafly – Best Unlimited Data

Headquartered in Spain, Holafly has been in the industry since 2017. With coverage spanning over 197 destinations worldwide, it’s likely to have an eSIM for almost any place you plan to visit.

Holafly’s biggest advantage is its unlimited data plans, making it ideal for tourists who frequently video call their friends and family or those who prefer streaming Netflix from their hotel rooms.

However, this unlimited data approach comes with a premium price tag, often making Holafly more expensive than its competitors. Additionally, Holafly sometimes requires payment in the local currency.

To illustrate the pricing difference, let’s take France as an example. While Saily offers a 30-day data plan with 5GB for $11.99, Holafly’s 30-day unlimited plan costs €69.99.

Although significantly more expensive, Holafly’s plan could be worth the investment for data junkies who might otherwise need to purchase multiple top-ups on a limited plan.

Furthermore, Holafly offers greater flexibility in terms of plan duration, allowing users to select the number of days for most destinations. For instance, you can buy a 1-day plan in the US for $6.00.

While it doesn’t yet offer a global plan like Airalo, it does provide several regional plans for continents like Europe and Asia.

One major drawback to Holafly is that it doesn’t allow hotspot tethering on its unlimited plans, making it unsuitable for travelers who plan to use their laptops or share their internet with others.

Despite these limitations, Holafly does offer a full refund in case of connection issues, and its 24/7 live chat support is highly regarded.

Holafly Pros

Several regional and country-specific plans
Unlimited data plans
Flexible in terms of plan duration
Reliable live chat and refund policy

Holafly Cons

Most expensive on our list
Hotspot tethering is not supported on unlimited plans

Airhub – Get a Local Phone Number

Airhub, founded in 2020 and based in California, functions as a marketplace for prepaid SIM cards, covering over 190 countries.

What sets Airhub apart from other services that offer data-only eSIMs is its inclusion of a local geographic phone number, making it an ideal choice for anyone who prefers to connect the old-school way.

Take, for instance, their France plan, which offers 40GB of data valid for 30 days for $36.00 and includes unlimited local phone calls.

Furthermore, Airhub provides up to 15 plans per country from different operators, allowing users to find the best option for their needs. Some of these plans in certain countries also offer unlimited data.

In addition to country-specific plans, Airhub also offers regional eSIMs for various continents, as well as a global eSIM that supports most countries worldwide. The monthly plan for the global eSIM starts at $39.99 and provides 25GB of data, unlimited local calling, and a UK phone number.

Currently, Airhub is running a promotion where users can get a free global eSIM that works in over 80 countries with 100MB of data. This is a great way to test the service, though it requires you to enter your email address.

Airhub’s app streamlines the eSIM buying and activation process, though it offers limited functionality beyond these core features.

Lastly, while Airhub claims to offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, it’s worth noting that some users have reported encountering issues with customer support responsiveness.

Airhub Pros

Plans with local geographic phone numbers for calls or SMS
Multiple country-specific, regional, and global plans, some with unlimited data
Offers a free global eSIM in 80 countries with 100MB of data
30-day money-back guarantee

Airhub Cons

Some user reviews mention mixed customer support interactions
Limited app functionality beyond core features

Nomad – Includes SMS Plans

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, Nomad has been offering competitively priced data-only eSIM plans since 2020.

Its extensive coverage spans over 170 countries, with country-specific plans starting at $6.00 for 1GB valid for 7 days in the US. Nomad’s data plans range from 1GB to 50GB, catering to various data needs, although they don’t currently offer unlimited data plans.

In addition to country-specific plans, Nomad provides 11 regional eSIM plans, including Europe, APAC, North America, Nordic, Sea-Oceania, SEA-Plus, Africa, Middle East, China-Japan-South Korea, Malaysia-Singapore-Philippines, Italy-Germany-France.

Furthermore, Nomad offers a decent global plan with two options: one covering 106 countries and another covering 109 countries. The 106-country plan starts at $12.00 for 1GB of data valid for 7 days, while the 109-country plan begins at $25.00 for 1GB with the same validity period.

Unique to Nomad is its SMS plan, allowing users to send and receive text messages without incurring roaming costs. These SMS plans are currently available only in the US and Canada, starting at $4.00 for 100 texts.

It’s worth noting that to use this SMS service, you must have a stable data or WiFi connection, and you can only send and receive texts using the Nomad app. However, the recipients will receive your messages on their native SMS app.

Nomad offers refunds for purchases made within 30 days, but they don’t yet have a live chat feature for customer support. Instead, users must contact support via email.

Eleven Regional plans and two global plans
SMS plans to save incurring roaming costs
One of the cheapest eSIM services here
Offers refund within 30 days of purchase
No live chat support

How to Install an eSIM for Travel?

Follow these steps to install an eSIM on your smartphone for travel.

Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM functionality

Before purchasing an eSIM, it’s crucial to confirm that your smartphone supports eSIM functionality. Here’s how you can check:

For iPhones: Go to Settings > Mobile Service. If you see the option to “Add eSIM,” your iPhone supports eSIM.
For Android devices: Visit your device’s Settings > Network & Internet > SIM cards. If the “Add eSIM” option is available, your Android device supports eSIM.

Pick an eSIM Provider

Once you’ve confirmed that your smartphone supports eSIMs, it’s time to pick an eSIM plan that fits your travel needs. First, determine the type of eSIM you require:

Local eSIM Plans: are country-specific and are ideal for short trips or visits to a particular destination. For example, if you’re traveling to Australia, pick an Australian eSIM plan.
Regional eSIM Plans: cover multiple countries within a specific region. For instance, if you’re visiting Europe, consider an eSIM plan that covers all of the countries in Europe you’re visiting.
Global eSIM Plans: offer coverage in numerous countries worldwide, making them a convenient option for a world tour or visiting countries in different regions.

Additionally, you must take into account your mobile data needs. If you anticipate high data usage, consider a provider that offers unlimited data plans. If not, you can go for limited data options ranging from 1GB to 50GB.

Lastly, determine the duration of your trip and choose an eSIM plan with a validity period that aligns with your travel duration. Most eSIM providers offer plans ranging from 7 to 30 days.

Once you’ve considered these factors, compare the eSIM plans from different providers to find the one that best suits your needs.

Activate Your eSIM

Here’s how to activate an eSIM on your smartphone:

Download the provider’s app: Most eSIM services have dedicated mobile apps for purchasing and activating eSIMs. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Purchase your eSIM pan: Within the app, follow the instructions to purchase the appropriate eSIM plan based on your destination(s) and data requirements.
Follow activation instructions: The app will provide step-by-step guidance to activate your eSIM. This process usually involves scanning a QR code or entering an activation code.
Wait for activation confirmation: Once your eSIM receives a signal, it’ll be ready for data connectivity at your destination.

Remember to follow any additional instructions provided by the eSIM provider, and don’t hesitate to reach out to their customer support if you encounter any issues during the activation process.

Let’s address some of the most frequently asked questions about eSIMs for travel.

Airalo offers eSIMs that work globally. While It doesn’t literally work in all 195 countries, it does work in 124 countries, which is still impressive. Other options that offer global digital SIM include Airhub and Nomad.

Yes, an eSIM is generally safer than a physical SIM because it’s embedded directly into your device’s chipset, eliminating the risk of physical SIM card theft or swapping. eSIMs also allow remote provisioning, revoking, and updating for enhanced security. They are digitally encrypted and securely stored, making them harder to clone or intercept compared to physical SIMs.

Final Verdict

Ultimately, any of the eSIM services I’ve recommended in this guide should provide you with high speed data and reliable connectivity during your international travel. The best choice depends on your specific travel needs.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Saily stands out as an ideal choice with its low-cost local plans. On the other hand, if unlimited data is a priority, Holafly’s plans make it a compelling choice. For those who like making traditional calls or sending SMS while traveling, Airhub could be a suitable fit.

Regardless of which eSIM service you select, you will undoubtedly enhance your travel experience and save on roaming costs.

Traveling internationally? Check if your phone takes an eSIM

By Kim Komando

“SIM” is short for subscriber identity module. It’s a chip that identifies your phone and connects you with SMS, phone services and cellular data. Then, eSIM technology builds upon this concept, allowing you to add a second line of service without disrupting your current plan.

There are many ways to exploit the best of what an eSIM offers. One of those ways is to use an eSIM for internet and phone access when traveling outside your carrier’s domestic zone.

For a crash course on the basics, tap or click to read our guide on staying connected with an international phone plan abroad . Read on to learn everything you need to know about using an eSIM when traveling out of the country.

Can I use an eSIM card with my phone?

The list of eSIM-capable phones is constantly growing. If you have an iPhone, a Google Pixel, or one of several high-end Samsung phones, you’re likely cleared for takeoff.

RELATED : Traveling soon? Five smart tech steps to take before you hit the road

With an eSIM phone, you’ll be able to purchase a foreign data plan to use when overseas. After activating your travel plan, you’ll be able to use your phone just as you did before, anywhere in the world.

Which phones are eSIM-compatible? The list is long. Yours is likely to be on it.

iPhones with eSIM access

Apple provides this quick guide on using dual SIM support for any of the following iPhone models:

iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 mini

If you use any of the following older iPhones, you can also use a physical nano-SIM card to stay connected:

All iPhone 12 models
All iPhone 11 models
iPhone XS Max

For 5G compatibility, you’ll also need to use iOS 14.5 or later. After following the instructions listed on the linked page above, you’ll be free to use your phone anywhere you buy an eSIM phone plan.

Pixel phones with eSIM access

All Pixel phones 3a and later offer dual SIM support , called dual SIM dual standby, DSDS. For 5G access globally, however, you’ll need at least a Pixel 4a. Here are the Pixel models that offer dual SIM support:

Google Pixel 3a
Google Pixel 3a XL
Google Pixel 4
Google Pixel 4a
Google Pixel 4 XL
Google Pixel 5
Google Pixel 5a
Google Pixel 6
Google Pixel 6 Pro

With Google Fi, you can also use a Google Pixel 2 or 2 XL for eSIM access and an old-school Pixel 3 or 3 XL. The current guide linked above is only for users working off of Android 11 or later. Be sure to make the upgrade before leaving the country.

Samsung phones with eSIM capabilities

Most Samsung Galaxy phones offer eSIM access, except for the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G. Beyond that, any of these Galaxy devices can be used to communicate while traveling:

Samsung Galaxy S20
Samsung Galaxy S20+
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy S21
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G
Samsung Galaxy S21+ Ultra 5G
Samsung Galaxy S22
Samsung Galaxy S22+
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
Samsung Galaxy Note 20
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G
Samsung Galaxy Fold
Samsung Galaxy Fold 3
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Fold
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
Samsung Watch (via Samsung Wearable application)

Which phones aren’t eSIM-compatible?

Those who have phones purchased in or from China, Hong Kong, or elsewhere in Southeast Asia may not be able to use eSIMs. Many models offer dual-SIM support, but neither of these slots is compatible with eSIM cards for travel.

Japanese Pixels are also limited, as they can’t support two different SIM cards simultaneously.

You may also like : Handy and compact electronics organizers for travel – organize wires, chargers and more

One Tech Tip: Use a roaming eSIM on your summer travels to avoid cellphone data fees

For summer trips overseas, a smartphone is essential for most people

LONDON -- For summer trips overseas, a smartphone is essential for most people. How else will you check Google Maps to find your Airbnb, post an Instagram video from the Eiffel Tower, or WhatsApp friends and family back home?

Of course, if you're using apps that gobble up data while traveling in a foreign country, there's always a risk of racking up hefty roaming fees from your phone carrier. The solution? An international travel eSIM for your smartphone.

How do you use this technology? Here are some tips.

If you've ever bought a new cellphone, you're probably familiar with the SIM card. Short for subscriber identity module, the SIM is a little chip the size of a fingernail that fits into a slot on most phones. Without it, you couldn't get cell service because it contains your account information and phone number.

They make switching cell carriers easier. And if you've bought a new phone recently, you might not even have a choice: Apple got rid of the SIM card tray starting with the iPhone 14 released in September 2022.

They're especially beneficial for travelers. If you've got a compatible cellphone, you can add an eSIM from a virtual carrier that has better data roaming rates than your home network. Many phones will allow you to add more than one eSIM, making it easy to switch back and forth, or — for phones with the capability — use two at the same time.

Think of the convenience: Gone are the days of arriving in a strange country after a long flight, looking for a local phone company's airport kiosk, carefully popping open the SIM tray with a pin to swap in the new chip, and trying not to lose the existing one.

“These guys have a role to play because I think they offer a very affordable and attractive opportunity for international travelers,” Mann said.

The boom means there's plenty of competition keeping rates low. Prices are typically clearly displayed online, either through a menu of packages on the provider's website or a calculator based on the amount of data needed and trip length.

Some 800 carriers support eSIMs, according to CCS, so international coverage is extensive. Many eSIM providers offer packages based on country or region, so you can check which ones have good rates for the place you'll be visiting and sign up in advance. Traveling to Europe and need data for a month covering 30 countries? Airalo offers, for example, 10 gigabytes at $37 while Holafly's package has unlimited data for 69 euros ($75).

You'll need a phone that's unlocked for use with different wireless carriers.

If you're not setting up a new phone, the typical activation method is with a QR code, or a more conventional string of numbers and letters. If you're planning a trip and buy one before you leave, it's a good idea to print out the code if you don't want to activate right away.

For iPhones, go to your Settings menu, then to either the Cellular or Mobile Service section, then tap Add eSIM. You'll be prompted to scan the code, or manually enter it. The process is similar for Android users. Samsung has a guide for Galaxy devices, and Google has a help page for Pixel users, while eSIM carriers have step-by-step instructions. Apple has a YouTube video , as well as tip sheets on using eSIMs for international travel and on using two eSIMs simultaneously.

If you've got a phone that supports dual eSIMs, you “can pick potentially the best network based on price and or coverage" while traveling, said Mann.

Some carriers have their own apps to manage eSIMs and track data usage.

More than 200 devices support the technology, CCS Insight says. U.K. phone company Vodafone has a list of compatible devices. Or dial (asterisk)#06# — an EID code indicates it's compatible.

For iPhone users, it's any model released since the XS, XS Max or XR, as well as recent iPads. They're compatible with any Samsung Galaxy devices released since 2020, and Google Pixel 4 and newer models will work; some Pixel 3 devices also support them.

First check your own carrier’s roaming costs for the places you’re visiting. Sometimes it’s not worth it.

Is there a tech challenge you need help figuring out? Write to us at [email protected] with your questions.

Justin Timberlake arrested, charged with DWI

4 hours ago

American tourist found dead on Greek island

Jun 18, 4:36 PM

'Mysterious' monolith seen in Vegas: Police

Jun 17, 4:28 PM

Witness says Gaetz paid her for sex: Sources

Jun 19, 5:05 AM

Girl killed by badminton racket

Jun 10, 7:51 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

Stay connected, wherever you travel, at affordable rates | United States

Our eSIMs are trusted by over 10,000,000 people worldwide

Local eSIMs
Regional eSIMs
Global eSIMs

United States

How Airalo Works

Download the app, choose your destination and package, install your esim, activate your esim, instant connectivity.

Purchase your eSIM from anywhere

by Dr.Jolin

Global Coverage

Get connected in 200+ countries and regions around the world

by BCGregory

Fantastic experience!

Affordable and Transparent

No hidden fees and entirely prepaid

by David Schouten

Extremely useful app for travelers!

24/7/365 Support

Our support team is available every day across all time zones

by Levy Borromeo

Customer service was really great.

Ready to try eSIMs and change the way you stay connected?

Download the Airalo app to purchase, manage, and top up your eSIMs anytime, anywhere!

Use Your Free Credit.

You can earn USD $3.00 in Airmoney by sharing your referral code with friends.

eSimly: eSIM Internet & Travel 4+

Discover world: esim data pack, designed for ipad, screenshots, description.

Discover our exceptional eSIM bundles with competitive pricing, no ID verification required. Enjoy seamless travel connectivity, exclusively with eSimly. Experience unparalleled connectivity in over 210 countries and regions. With eSimly, you can install your eSIM and get online in minutes. Say goodbye to roaming fees enjoy easy, affordable, and reliable global connectivity with eSimly. Stay seamlessly connected wherever your travels take you. With an eSimly eSIM (digital SIM), you can access the internet in over 210 countries and regions worldwide, enjoying savings of up to 10 times on roaming fees. Experience unparalleled convenience and affordability with eSimly your passport to effortless global connectivity. - What is an eSIM? An eSIM is a revolutionary embedded SIM card integrated directly into your phone's hardware. It performs the same functions as a physical SIM card but operates entirely digitally, offering enhanced convenience and flexibility. Experience the future of mobile connectivity with eSimly and enjoy seamless, hassle free access to networks worldwide. - Effortless Connectivity with eSimly! Say goodbye to the hassle of physical SIM cards. With eSimly, you can purchase an eSIM, install it on your device and instantly connect to a mobile network at your destination. Enjoy seamless, affordable, and flexible connectivity without the need for physical SIM cards, unreliable Wi-Fi, or surprise roaming fees. Experience the ultimate in convenient and cost effective mobile communication with eSimly. - What is an eSimly eSIM Plan? An eSimly eSIM plan offers comprehensive access to mobile data, call, and text services. Choose from a range of prepaid local, regional, or global eSIM plans to stay connected in over 210 countries and regions worldwide. Simply download your eSIM, install it on your device, and instantly connect to a mobile network upon arrival at your destination. Experience unparalleled convenience and global connectivity with eSimly. - How eSimly Works: Get global connectivity in four simple steps: 1. Download the eSimly app. 2. Choose your eSIM plan from our wide selection for over 210 countries and regions. 3. Install your eSIM it only takes a few minutes. 4. Connect to a local network and enjoy seamless internet access upon arrival. 5. Stay effortlessly connected worldwide with eSimly it's that simple! - Why eSimly? Experience the advantages of eSimly: • Global Coverage: Stay connected in 210+ countries and regions. • Quick Setup: Install and activate your eSIM in minutes. • Transparent Pricing: Affordable plans with no hidden fees. • Versatile Options: Choose from local, regional, and global eSIMs. • Comprehensive Services: Call, text, and access data with ease. • Convenient Management: Track usage and top up data on the go. • Rewards Program: Earn cashback rewards with every purchase. • 24/7 eSimly Assistance available whenever you need it, for eSimly for seamless connectivity and support. • No ID verification required. - Why Travelers Prefer eSIMs with eSimly: • Instant Connectivity: Enjoy easy, affordable access to networks. • Digital Convenience: Skip physical SIM cards and Wi-Fi worries. • Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprise charges. • Versatile Storage: Store multiple eSIMs on one device. • On-the-Go Flexibility: Switch eSIM plans effortlessly while traveling. • Number Continuity: Keep your existing number for 2FA. • Global Reach: Stay connected worldwide with eSimly. - Pricing Details: Discover the affordability of eSIMs with eSimly: Starting at $0.35: eSIMs from eSimly begin at just US$0.35 for 1GB of data. ____________________________________ Discover eSimly: • Visit eSimly website at ( esimly.io ) for more information on eSIMs and their benefits. • Read our blog at https://esimly.io/blogs/. • Get help at https://help.esimly.io. Follow us: • @eSimly - On Facebook and X (Twitter). • @eSimly.io - On Instagram and Threads. For the latest news , updates , and offers. Review: • Check our Privacy Policy: https://esimly.io/privacy-policy/. • Read our Terms & Conditions: https://esimly.io/terms-and-conditions/.

Version 1.1.2

Stay Connected with eSimly - Now Faster with 5G eSIM! We’re thrilled to announce that the latest update of the eSimly app is here, and it’s packed with enhancements that will elevate your connectivity experience to new heights! What’s New? - Pre-Arrival eSIM Activation, an exclusive feature allowing you to activate your eSIM before reaching your destination. Enjoy instant connectivity upon arrival without the hassle of finding a local SIM card. This unique feature ensures seamless travel and sets eSimly apart with unmatched convenience. - 5G Services: Step into the future with our newly added 5G Services for all eSIM bundles. Enjoy lightning fast internet speeds wherever you go, making your online experience seamless and efficient. - Technical Enhancements: We’ve listened to your feedback and have ironed out those pesky bugs. Say goodbye to technical glitches and hello to a smoother performance. - User Interface Improvements: Navigate with ease! Our improved user interface is designed to provide you with an intuitive and user friendly experience. Our team is dedicated to working for you, ensuring that every connection you make is not just a transaction, but a step towards a more connected world. Need Assistance? We’re here to help! For support or inquiries, reach out to us at ( [email protected] ) or via WhatsApp at ( +971 50 110 3026 ). Your seamless connectivity is our top priority. Download the update now and take the first step into a broader, faster, and more reliable world of communication with eSimly!

App Privacy

The developer, eSimly , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

Financial Info
Contact Info

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

Developer Website
App Support
Privacy Policy

Get all of your passes, tickets, cards, and more in one place.

IMAGES

Best eSIM for USA: compare and travel connected
How to Use an eSIM for Travel to USA
How To Find The Best eSIM for Traveling
Best eSim In The USA For Travelers
Why The Holafly ESIM Is The Best ESim For USA Travel!
Buy Airalo eSIM for travel to the United States

VIDEO

International esim For Traveling Abroad #traveltips
How to SETUP your Travel eSIM
Best eSIM for Singapore
Maya Mobile eSIM REVIEW
Best eSIM For Europe In 2024 #esim #europe
With eSIM VS Without eSIM

COMMENTS

The 6 best eSIMs for international travel in 2024
Saily. Saily. Saily — developed by the team behind NordVPN — offers some of the cheapest eSIM data plans we've found. For example, 1GB of data that's valid for 7 days is just $2.49 in the ...
5 BEST USA eSIMs for Travel [TRIED + TESTED] 2024 Guide!]
Get your eSIM here. 5. Holafly - Best eSIM for the USA with Unlimited Calls! Holafly is another highly rated eSIM provider, who have plenty of great reviews from customers who have used their various plans. They provide a range of eSIM lengths for the USA, which start from 5 days up to 90 days.
United States: Best Tourist eSIMs Reviewed (2024)
United States 3 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 11 USD - very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers. United States 5 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 16 USD - very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers. United States 10 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 26 USD. United States 20 GB eSIM for 30 days, costing 42 USD.
The 7 Best Prepaid eSIM Plans for the USA (June 2024) + Discounts
Best Mobile App: T-Mobile. T-mobile, one of the major US local carriers, offers a prepaid eSIM plan aimed at tourists. For $40 you will get 10 GB of data. It's a bit pricey, but you can experience the excellent T-Mobile app and the T-mobile network without intermediary.
Best eSIM for USA in 2023 (We Found Them All)
Airalo. Airalo is world-renowned as one of the best international eSIMs and offers excellent service in the USA too. Airalo's prepaid USA eSIM cards offer a minimum of 1 GB for 7 days which costs $4.50 and a maximum of 20 GB for 30 days which costs $42. These prices are great for shorter trips to the USA.
Best eSIM for international 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 ...
Best E-Sim Cards for Traveling to the USA in 2024
However, one of the main reasons why Jetpac is listed as one of the best e-sims for USA is their competitive prices. Let's check out the e-sim card plans Jetpac has for USA in 2024: 1 GB data for 4 days = $1 USD. 3 GB data for 7 days = $5 USD. 5 GB data for 30 days = $8 USD. 10 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD.
Best eSIM For USA Travel: Everything You Need To Know
Best eSIM USA Deals. Here are the best USA eSIM providers depending on your needs: Cheapest USA plans: Nomad offers the cheapest plans in the United States. Airalo and AloSIM are slightly more expensive.; Cheapest unlimited plans in the USA: Yoho Mobile offers the cheapest plans, and it includes Voice and SMS, too. However, if you need unlimited data for longer periods, Holafly is a great option.
Best eSIMs For the USA: Our 2024 Ranking
Going back to eSIMs, Yesim's packages typically cost between $7 and $28 for 3 GB to 20 GB, but only the 10 GB and 20 GB data plans last longer than 30 days (some plans up to 60 days are possible to purchase). In our opinion, this makes Yesim's offers slightly less attractive than Airalo's for travel in general.
Best Prepaid USA eSIM Data Plans For Travelers
Holafly also connects to the AT&T and T-Mobile networks—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 an excellent option. Holafly USA eSIM Plan Specs: Prices For Unlimited Data (Check Holafly for details) 5 Days: $19. 10 Days: $34.
Top 6 Best eSIM Cards for Traveling to the USA in 2024.
Instabridge employs a straightforward approach regarding US eSIM plans and offers only three choices. The cheapest 1GB plan lasts 7 days and costs only $3.00. The second option includes 3GB of data, lasts 15 days, and costs $6.00, while the most-extended plan includes 10GB for 30 days with a $14.00 price tag. 6.
The Best eSIM for Travel to the United States in 2022
Holafly eSIM. Holafly is a European company that offers prepaid eSIM for tourists around the world, including the United States. According to Trustpilot ratings, this company has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5, which makes it reliable for those who need to buy a data plan in the US.
What Is The Best eSIM for USA? A Complete Guide (2024)
The below list may also be the cheapest eSIM plan USA you will find online - and they work like a dream! CHOOSE FROM 6 x ESIM DATA PACKAGES FOR THE USA: 1GB data for 7 days - $4.5 USD. 2GB for 15 days - $8 USD. 3GB for 30 days - $11 USD. 5 GB for 30 days - $16 USD. 10GB for 30 days - $26 USD. 20GB for 30 days - $42 USD.
Best Travel eSIM for the USA in 2024
In 2024, for Nomad's US eSIM plans, prices start from 1 GB for just $6, and if you're staying longer, we also have a 3 GB eSIM for $11 and 5 GB for $14. Currently, one of the most popular US data plans is the 10GB option for only $20 (usual price $24). The US is a large country and it's pretty popular to travel in groups and do multi ...
Best eSIM for USA: cards for travel reviewed in 2024
Saily is the best eSIM for USA travel. The provider offers lightning-fast data (4G and 5G support), which comes in cheap packages. The starting price in the US is $3.99 for 1 GB lasting 7 days. Other plans span 3 GB to 20 GB, each for 30 days. Besides, it's easy to top-up any moment via app.
Best eSIM Plans of 2024: Cheap, prepaid, international
Google Fi's Unlimited Plus is one of the best international eSIM plans. You enjoy talk, text, and data in Canada and Mexico. On top of that, Google Fi Wireless offers cheap calls from the United States to over 200 international locations (with free phone calls to 50 places). There's also free or cheap talk/text/data outside of the US.
What is the Best eSIM for USA?
A travel-friendly eSIM enables you to keep your "home" SIM active for voice and text while utilising a second active data connection in the United States. This solution is perfect for vacations anywhere between 3 days and 3 months. Anything longer, and you might be better off picking up a regular local SIM. Phones Compatible with a USA eSIM
What is the best eSim for USA travel?
Holafly's USA eSim has emerged as the winner in the battle of the best eSIM for USA travel. Its prepaid eSIM USA tourist offers reliable coverage across the country. For affordable pricing for data, voice, and text messaging services, easy activation online, compatibility with a wide range of devices, and good customer support, Holafy has it all.
The 5 Best Prepaid eSIMs for the USA (2023)
The the USA eSIM from SimOptions is the perfect choice to stay connected to family and friends at home. Data:6GB. Calls/SMS:No. Credit Validity:10 days. Only$ 17.90. Learn more. Learn more. 3 Hong Kong boasts one of the strongest mobile internet networks and has now started to provide customers with eSIMs for the USA.
Travel eSIM for USA
Step 1. Go to Settings > Cellular and Turn this line on. Step 2. Make sure "Data Roaming" is toggled on and you are selecting the Nomad eSIM for "Cellular Data". Step 3. The eSIM will automatically find and connect to the best local network for you. Learn more about installing an eSIM.
How to Set Up and Use an eSIM for International Travel
Step 1: Pick an eSIM. The main reason to use eSIM services for travel is to save money. The big U.S. carriers, like AT&T and Verizon, offer international roaming options, including $10 day passes ...
Best eSIM for International Travel: The Ultimate Guide
Devices supported: iOS, Android. 6. Holafly - top eSIM choice for unlimited data use. If you're the type of person who goes through a lot of data when traveling, then Holafly is the best fit for you. This eSIM provider offers unlimited data plans in Europe, the US, China, Mexico, Japan, and Turkey.
eSIM USA from $6 with Unlimited Data
Shop at Holafly for the best prepaid eSIM cards for travel to USA, Unlimited Data is included so you can use your cellphone worry-free. WhatsApp 24/7: +1 (661) 384-8482. Destinations. About us; FAQs; Reviews; Partnerships New. Holafly for Business. ... With the United States eSIM, you have the capability to share up to 500MB of data per day ...
One Tech Tip: Use a roaming eSIM on your summer travels to avoid
Apple has a YouTube video, as well as tip sheets on using eSIMs for international travel and on using two eSIMs simultaneously. If you've got a phone that supports dual eSIMs, you "can pick potentially the best network based on price and or coverage" while traveling, said Mann.
Best eSIM for International Travel in 2024 (plans compared)
Key Takeaways. Based on available plans, we believe Saily is the best overall eSIM for international travel, offering the most affordable country-specific data plans across over 150 countries.; For itineraries with multiple destinations, consider Alosim's regional bundles or Airalo's global plan covering 124 countries as cost-effective options. ...
Traveling internationally? Check if your phone takes an eSIM
510+ radio stations in the USA and on demand . News. ... There are many ways to exploit the best of what an eSIM offers. One of those ways is to use an eSIM for internet and phone access when ...
One Tech Tip: Use a roaming eSIM on your summer travels to avoid
A SIM card is shown in this photo taken on Monday, June 10, 2024 in London. Physical SIM cards are going away, replaced by eSIMs which make switching cell carriers easier.
United States eSIM, from $4.50 USD
Stay connected, wherever you travel, at affordable rates | United States . Our eSIMs are trusted by over 10,000,000 people worldwide From 300,000+ Reviews. Local eSIMs Regional eSIMs ... get an esim and have a local data provider internet working within minutes for the price of two coffees! Loved swiping through a dating app in the middle of ...
Cheapest eSIM Card for Studying Abroad
T his article explains my recommendation for Holafly, what I consider to be the most cost-effective (best and cheapest) eSIM card for studying abroad in Europe in 2024. This international phone ...
eSimly: eSIM Travel & Connect 4+
An eSimly eSIM plan offers comprehensive access to mobile data, call, and text services. Choose from a range of prepaid local, regional, or global eSIM plans to stay connected in over 210 countries and regions worldwide. Simply download your eSIM, install it on your device, and instantly connect to a mobile network upon arrival at your destination.

What are you looking for?

What is an eSIM?

What phones are compatible with eSIMs?

Other ESIM Compatible Devices

Can I use my current mobile provider's international data plan?

Advantages of eSIMs when traveling the USA

BEST eSIMs for USA Travel

Advantages of Maya Mobile for the USA:

Disadvantages of Maya Mobile for the USA:

2. FIRSTY - best eSIM app with free data

Advantages of Firsty for the USA:

Disadvantages of Firsty:

3. SimOptions - Best eSIM for Reputation and Reliability

Advantages of SimOptions for the USA:

Disadvantages of SimOptions for the USA:

4. Airalo - Best Coverage Options for the USA

Advantages of Airalo for the USA:

Disadvantages of Airalo for the USA:

5. Holafly - Best eSIM for the USA with Unlimited Calls!

Advantages of Holafly for the USA:

Disadvantages of Holafly for the USA:

Which eSIM will you go for?

Leave a comment

5 million people can't be wrong

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

Top Product Overview

Holafly eSims

Note: Use EXPERTWORLDTRAVEL for 5% off your first order

Maya Mobile

Benefits of Getting An eSIM for the USA

Devices Compatible with a USA eSIM

iPhone & iPad

Android Phones

Other Devices That Support eSim

Local Mobile Operators Offering eSims in the US

Data Needed When Traveling to the USA

Tips for Using eSIM in the USA

Use Facetime & iMessage

Use Offline Maps

Try To Use WiFi

Live In Airplane Mode

Control Which Apps Use Data

What is an eSIM?

Frequently Asked Questions

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR NEXT ESIM

Best eSIM for international travel of 2024

Best eSIM overall

The best eSIM for international travel of 2024 in full:

Specifications

Best eSIM for customizable plans

Best eSIM for easy installation

Best eSIM for value for money

Best eSIM for security

5. Instabridge

Best eSIM for beginners

Best eSIM for frequent travellers

Best eSIM for network coverage

Best eSIM for unlimited data

Best eSIM for global plans

10. GlobaleSIM

Best eSIM for Europe

11. Holiday eSIM

Best eSIM for data-only plans

12. Flexiroam

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

How to choose the best eSIM for international travel

How does an eSIM work?

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

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

How to set up and activate an eSIM on Android?

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?

Are there any risks to using eSIMs?

Final verdict

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Most Popular

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

you may also like...

My recommendation