Planning to visit America is in itself a daunting task. Arranging a visa, buying tickets, and reserving accommodation can affect your finances. Amid all this fiasco, getting a reliable mobile connection can add stress and frustration, especially when you have no relatives or friends to welcome you to the States. An eSIM can somewhat minimize travel stress as it would let you connect to a supported network as soon as you land in the country. This article will discuss the best eSIM cards in the US, including updated call plans, data packages, price comparisons, specifications, and places to order the best affordable connections. Similar eSIMs are available in Germany, Singapore, UAE, UK, or internationally.
You will find everything you need to get a USA e-SIM to stay online and make calls/SMS to local and international phone numbers. Read on and discover insightful details to stay connected on budget and explore the USA with much peace and convenience.
Best Cheap eSIM Cards in The US
If you are confused about which mobile connection to opt for when visiting America, take a sigh of relief as we are here to tell you all the details to get your hands on the most suitable SIM for your trip.
We have compiled a list of top eSIM cards in the US that millions of users have used across the globe. These connections are reliable, budget-friendly, and offer consistent service no matter where you go. We will tell you when and where to get these eSIM cards and will include credible links to purchase on the go. So let’s dive in and look at the best USA eSIMs for tourists that wouldn’t cost you an arm or leg.
Recommendations for Best USA eSIMs
Following are some of the highly sought-after eSIM cards for USA tourists. All prices and plans are updated, although visiting the vendor’s website for the latest promotions and details is best.
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Change eSIM card in the USA by Airalo
Cost: USD26
Specifications
- 10 GB data volume
- Data only eSIM
- Does not come with a phone number
- Incoming and outgoing calls/text messages are not supported
- Valid for use in the USA only
- 30 days validity
- 5G ready connection
- Comes down to USD2.60 per GB
Airalo is the only eSIM provider that offers 5G-ready eSIM cards in the USA. For just USD26, you will get a generous 10 GB of data; for USD 16, you will get 5 GB of mobile data on your phone. The company offers 20 GB of data for avid internet users for just USD42.
Airalo also offers seasonal discounts and promotions to help users bag USA eSIMs at discounts. We recommend you keep an eye on their website and avail of sales and deals on data plans and call packages designed exclusively for USA tourists.
To purchase Airalo eSIM cards in the US, click here.
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Nomad USA eSIM
Cost: USD 24
Specifications:
- 20 GB data volume
- Data only eSIM
- Does not come with a phone number
- Incoming and outgoing calls/texts are not supported
- 30 days validity
- 4G/LTE connectivity
- Valid for use in the USA only
- It comes down to USD1.20 per GB
The next cheap eSIM provider for the US is Nomad. The company sells some affordable card plans for tourists traveling to the States with generous data volumes and incredible specifications. Their eSIM cards in the US are cheaper than that of the Airalo.
The cheapest eSIM you can purchase from Nomad is $24; you will get 20 GB of data with a month-long validity. The average you will pay for a Gigabyte is USD1.20, so it’s cheaper than the plan Airalo offers.
The only downside to the Nomad eSIM is that it does not support 5G connectivity and operates on a 4G/LTE network. The SIM also does not have a phone number and thus does not support incoming and outgoing calls/text messages.
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SimOptions eSIM Cards in The US
SimOptions also have reasonably priced eSIM cards for USA tourists. The company has a lot of attractive card deals and data plans to suit varying needs and budgets. They offer reliable coverage, consistent service, and affordable plans and are thus one of the most recommended eSIM providers for purchasing USA eSIMs.
SimOptions, the most economical eSIM card, offers 20 GB of generous data for USD34.90. It means you will pay USD1.75 for 1 GB. Besides this, they have many other plans that you may consider when traveling to America for a work or holiday trip.
Prices for SimOptions eSIM Cards in the US
Here is an updated list of prices for the card plans that SimOptions has in store for USA tourists.
- 1 GB data volume valid for 30 at the cost of USD4.9 (Go USA)
- 6 GB data volume valid for 10 days at the cost of USD17.9 (Smart Traveler)
- 10 GB data volume valid for 15 days at the cost of USD19.9 (USA 10GB)
- 10 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the cost of USD39.90 (30-Day Pass)
To place an order for SimOptions eSIMs for the USA, click here.
SimOptions does not explicitly mention the network they use for their USA eSIMs and also does not offer 5G coverage. The maximum speed you will get with a SimOptions eSIM for America is 4G/LTE. Their eSIMs are data-only connections with no phone number to make and receive calls/text messages.
International eSIM Cards in the US by SimOptions
The company also sells international eSIM cards that can be used in the USA and other countries. These connections are ideal for travelers who are always on the go and visit multiple countries for a few weeks.
SimOptions International eSIMs for America are powered by Three Hong Kong and are valid in the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong. Here are the details for their international eSIMs, which can be used in the USA and multiple other countries:
- 10 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the cost of USD24.90
- 20 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the cost of USD34.90
The best economical international eSIM card for the USA by SimOptions is the Three HK eSIM card. This connection comes with a 20 GB data volume for USD 34.90 only, which means you will be paying USD1.75 per GB.
These SIMs also have a phone number registered in Hong Kong with code +852. You can use the connection to receive local and international calls in America with ease and on budget. However, making calls and sending texts wouldn’t be possible.
The Three HK eSIM cards in the USA stay valid for 1 year which means that you have to install and activate the connection within a year from the date of purchase. Once the connection is activated, the credit validity begins immediately no matter what your geographical location is.
For further details on SimOptions International eSIM cards in the US, we recommend you visit their official website and get your queries sorted.
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Airalo eSIM Cards in the US
Airalo is another trusted name for purchasing eSIM cards in the US. Their connections are fast, secure, and reliable, offering seamless mobile connectivity. They have simple terms and conditions and let users purchase their SIMs without any extensive registration or ID verification.
Millions of users around the globe make use of Airalo’s eSIMs to stay connected while exploring the USA. Their card plans are also some of the cheapest connections available.
Their data plans and call packages are cheaper than SimOptions, and promotions and sales can further lower the prices. However, Airalo’s data packs are not as generous as those of SimOptions but can be suitable for travellers who do not require extensive internet connectivity during their trip.
If you need data to check your social media messages, send emails, and navigate Google Maps, then Airalo’s eSIMs could be the best affordable choice when traveling to America.
Prices for Airalo’s eSIM Cards in the US
- 1 GB data volume valid for 7 days at the price of USD 4.5
- 2 GB data volume valid for 15 days at the price of USD 8
- 3 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 11
- 5 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 16
- 10 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 26
- 20 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 42
To purchase Airalo’s eSIM cards in the US online, click here.
Airalo also puts their eSIMs on sale occasionally, so you can get your hands on their incredible connections for only a fraction of the original price. You can sometimes get a flat 50% off on their USA eSIMs, so visiting the website in person and checking for ongoing promotions and discounts to save money is better.
Airalo eSIM cards in the US mentioned above are valid for use in the USA only. These connections operate on a 4G/LTE/5G network powered by T-Mobile and Verizon. A big plus of using Airalo’s eSIMs is that they are 5G-ready connections, allowing users to avail of high-speed mobile internet wherever they go.
The only downside to these eSIMs is that they do not come with a phone number; thus, incoming and outgoing calls and text messages are not supported.
All Airalo USA eSIMs must be installed on the mobile device within 1 month from the date of purchase. If you forget to activate your connection, the validity will expire and you will waste the money you spent buying the SIM.
After installation, the credit validity begins when the SIM connects to a supported network in the USA. So it’s better to activate your SIM on time, i.e. within a month of purchase, and the credit validity will start after you land in America for the first time.
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Nomad eSIM Cards in The US
One more credible source for buying USA eSIMs is Nomad. The popular eSIM provider offers cost-effective card plans for travelers heading to the USA. Their cheap yet powerful connections can keep you connected to the world on the go without shelling out a lot of bucks.
Prices for Nomad eSIM Cards in the US
Here is an updated list of prices for all available eSIM cards in the US by Nomad:
- 1 GB data volume valid for 7 days at the price of USD 6
- 3 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 9
- 5 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 14
- 10 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 13.5
- 20 GB data volume valid for 30 days at the price of USD 24
To purchase Nomad eSIM cards in the US, click here.
Nomad always has some offers and promotions on their website where they put their eSIMs on discounts. You can always check out the latest offers to purchase USA eSIMs at a discount. Their connections are powered by eSIM Go and operate on a 4G/LTE network of Verizon and AT&T.
These eSIMs do not support 5G connectivity and offer data coverage only. There is no phone number that you can use to make and receive calls/text messages.
All Nomad eSIMs have to be installed within one month from the date of purchase. If you forget to activate your connection, the connections activate automatically and expire after a month. After successful installation, the credit validity starts when the SIM connects to a supported network.
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T-Mobile eSIMs
If you’re planning a trip to the United States and need reliable mobile connectivity, consider T-Mobile’s eSIM cards. After you arrive in the USA, you can conveniently purchase a T-Mobile eSIM card from an official T-Mobile store.
The process incurs an activation fee of USD10 for new customers, with an additional USD4.99 charge for the eSIM card. Once activated, you can select from a range of flexible plans tailored to your data needs:
Here are a few of the eSIM card plans by T-Mobile that you can purchase upon arrival in the USA:
- 10 GB data for USD40
- Unlimited data with 3G hotspot for USD50
- Unlimited data with 10 GB 4G hotspot for USD60
One notable advantage of opting for a T-Mobile eSIM card is unlimited calling and texting within the USA, providing comprehensive communication coverage throughout your travels.
It’s important to note that T-Mobile eSIM cards are exclusively available in-store upon arrival and cannot be purchased online.
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AT&T eSIMs
AT&T eSIMs can be purchased upon your arrival in the USA. For this, you would need to visit a registered AT&T store and pay an activation fee of USD14.99 and USD4.99 for an eSIM card. Here are some of the most sought-after card plans that AT&T has in store for USA tourists:
- 5 GB data for USD30 (excluding tax)
- 15 GB data for USD40 (excluding tax)
- Unlimited calls and text messages along with unlimited data for USD65 (excluding tax)
The most attractive feature of AT&T eSIMs is that you can enjoy unlimited internet and mobile connectivity, which only a few carriers offer. Bear in mind that these connections are available in stores only and cannot be bought online through any third-party vendor.
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Verizon eSIMs
If you’re planning a trip to the United States and seeking reliable mobile connectivity, Verizon’s eSIM card options might be just what you need. Upon arrival in the USA, you can purchase a Verizon eSIM card exclusively from official Verizon stores, ensuring seamless activation for your device.
Verizon offers three prepaid plans tailored for tourists, as eSIM cards, each designed to cater to varying data and communication needs. These plans, priced exclusive of tax, include:
- 15 GB data with unlimited calls and text messages for USD45
- Unlimited calls, SMS, and data with 5 GB hotspot for USD60
- Unlimited calls, SMS, and data with 25 GB hotspot for USD70
While there is an official registration fee of 25 USD for Verizon prepaid plans, it’s often waived, offering an added convenience for travelers. Remember, Verizon eSIM cards can only be purchased in-store within the USA and cannot be ordered online.
What is the Cheapest eSIM Card for Visiting the USA?
For budget-conscious travelers seeking an affordable eSIM card option for their journey to America, Airalo’s USA eSIM card plan offers the best value for money. Priced at just USD 4.5, it is the most economical choice. While it provides a modest 1 GB of data, this offering can suffice for many travelers, particularly those needing data for navigation and communication through platforms like WhatsApp.
Airalo’s plan allows for easy top-ups if you need additional data, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity throughout your travels in the United States.
Why Order an eSIM When Traveling to the USA?
Ordering an eSIM for your visit to the USA can benefit travelers seeking seamless connectivity for many compelling reasons.
Firstly, eSIMs offer unparalleled convenience by eliminating the need for a physical SIM card, streamlining the setup process, and sparing travellers the hassle of seeking out local stores for purchase or activation. This instant activation upon arrival ensures that you can immediately access essential services such as navigation, communication, and internet browsing.
Additionally, eSIM technology provides flexibility, allowing users to choose from a variety of mobile carriers and plans tailored to their specific needs, whether it’s extensive data for streaming and browsing or unlimited calls and texts for staying in touch with loved ones.
With the ability to remotely manage your account and top up data as needed, eSIMs offer peace of mind and control over your mobile experience in the USA. Moreover, eSIMs future-proof your device, ensuring compatibility with evolving mobile technologies and eliminating the inconvenience of outdated physical SIM cards.
Also, eSIM cards in the US can be a lifesaver in avoiding hefty roaming charges. By activating an eSIM tailored for the USA before your trip, you can access local network services without incurring exorbitant fees associated with international roaming.
This means you can enjoy seamless connectivity for calls, texts, and data usage at affordable local rates rather than being subject to inflated charges from your home network provider. With an eSIM, you can navigate, communicate, and stay connected throughout your American adventure without fearing returning home to an unexpectedly hefty phone bill.
Overall, ordering an eSIM for your visit to the USA promises unparalleled convenience, flexibility, and reliability in staying connected throughout your travels.
Where to buy an eSIM Card for visiting the USA?
To obtain an eSIM card for use in the USA, you’ll need to turn to online eSIM providers, as traditional mobile operators in the USA don’t typically offer tourist eSIM cards through their websites.
SimOptions, Airalo, and Nomad as mentioned above, are top choices for travelers heading to the USA in 2024. When purchasing an eSIM card from these providers, all you need is your email address, and the eSIM card is instantly activated upon installation without requiring any ID registration.
On the other hand, if you prefer to buy an eSIM card upon arrival in the USA, you’ll need to locate an official retail store of either T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T. However, this option involves visiting the store in person and can be time-consuming.
Moreover, it’s worth noting that purchasing a tourist eSIM card in-store is typically more expensive than ordering online, making online ordering the recommended choice for cost-conscious travellers.