Best eSIM for the USA

Back in the day, the idea of a SIM card – a tiny little piece of plastic – powering and personalising your telephone was pretty mindblowing, but these days, with technology having progressed so rapidly, they’ve become old school. Indeed, they’ve been replaced by something more sophisticated, cheaper, and just all around better (in most regards) – eSIMS.

Gone are the days of fumbling with finicky SIM cards, searching for gadgets to swap them out, or hunting down a carrier store the moment you land.

News flash (in case you haven’t been paying attention lately) – if you’re traveling to the USA, an eSIM is your new best friend. Short for “embedded SIM,” an eSIM lets you activate a mobile plan without a physical card – just a few little taps on your phone, and you’ll be connected.

So, why is this a game-changer for traveling in the US?

Well, honestly, for plenty of reasons, but for starters, instant activation means you can land, switch on your phone, and get online without breaking a sweat. No more overpriced airport SIMs or struggling with foreign carriers that you don’t understand (or trust, in some cases).

Plus, eSIMs let you store multiple plans on one device, so you can keep your home number active while using a US data plan for Google Maps, Uber, and all-important food delivery apps. And, if the latter is important to you, you’re just going to have to find the best eSIM for Europe with phone number retention (which mosfet of them offer anyway).

And let’s not forget the cost savings – generally speaking, eSIMs end up working out to be way cheaper than buying local SIMs (for short visits at least), never mind roaming.

The best part? More and more US carriers and travel SIM providers are embracing eSIM technology, making it easier than ever to find reliable options with great coverage.

Whether you’re road-tripping on Route 66, hitting up NYC’s best coffee shops, or working remotely from a sunny California beach, the right eSIM will keep you connected without the hassle.

Let’s dive into finding the best eSIM card for the USA and find the perfect one for your North American adventure!

How Do eSIMS Work In the USA?

If you’ve ever fumbled with a SIM card when you’re in a rush (or irritable, heavens forbid) – dropping it, losing it, or struggling to pop it into your phone – then you’re going to love eSIMs.

Short for “embedded SIM,” an eSIM is built right into your phone, meaning no more physical swapping, no more searching for a paperclip, and no more overpriced airport kiosks trying to sell you a SIM you don’t need (and charging you 10 times more).

In the USA, eSIMs are widely supported by major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, as well as a ton of travel-friendly eSIM providers that offer short-term data plans.

So, how do you actually get connected? Easy as pie. Travelers can activate an eSIM in three main ways:

Scanning a QR code sent by your provider (fast and effortless)
Manual installation by entering carrier details (for the tech-savvy)
Using a carrier app for instant activation (because who has time for extra steps?)

Before you get cracking, though, do check if your phone is eSIM-compatible. It would be heartbreaking (not to be dramatic) to purchase a plan or even just get excited only to find out your phone can’t even handle an eSIM.

Most newer iPhones (XR and later) and premium Android devices (Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3 and newer) support eSIMs. Bonus – many of these phones support dual SIM functionality, so you can keep your regular number active while using a U.S. eSIM for data and calls.

Whether you’re road-tripping down Route 66 or grabbing a coffee in NYC, an eSIM makes staying connected in the USA fast, easy, and way cheaper than roaming fees.

Advantages of Using eSIMS for Travel in the USA

If you’re about to embark on an all-American vacation, step one should be to ditch your old-school SIM card for an eSIM – it’s a total game-changer. No more fumbling with tiny plastic chips or hunting for a local carrier store – just a few taps, and you’re sorted.

But, let’s get into more detail about exactly what the benefits are of using eSIMS while traveling the USA.

Ultimate Convenience

Let’s be real – who has time to swap out SIM cards anymore? With an eSIM, you don’t need to pry open your phone, risk losing your primary SIM, or carry around extras. Everything is digital, so you can switch networks instantly without the hassle. And, an extra bonus is that it’s good for the environment!

Save That Cash

We all like to save a penny or two, so international roaming fees? No thank you! With an eSIM, you can grab a local data plan at way better rates than what your home carrier would charge you.

Multiple Plans, Zero Stress

If you decide to pop over the Northern border to Canada or the Southern border to Mexico, no problem – your eSIM can go with you and it’ll keep you connected along the way.

Need different plans for work and personal use? No problem. eSIMs let you store multiple profiles, meaning you can have a U.S. plan for travel while keeping your home number active. It’s like having two phones, minus the bulk.

Instant Connection, Anywhere

Touchdown in the U.S., and before you’ve had time to say “Uncle Sam!” you’re online. With an eSIM, you can buy and activate your plan before you even land. No wasting time at the airport looking for SIM kiosks – just scan a QR code or download an app, and you’re good to go.

More Secure, More Reliable

Ever lost a SIM card? It’s a nightmare, and it can be expensive too. With an eSIM, that’s not an issue. It’s built into your phone, so it can’t be stolen or misplaced. Plus, major U.S. carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon support eSIMs, meaning you’ll get solid coverage wherever you go.

The bottom line is that an eSIM makes traveling in the U.S. easier, cheaper, and way more convenient. No stress, no outrageous fees, just seamless connectivity.

Primary Factors to Consider When Choosing an eSIM Provider In the USA

Choosing the right eSIM provider for your trip to the USA isn’t just about grabbing the cheapest plan – you need solid coverage, fast speeds, and a plan that lasts for your whole trip. Here’s what to look for before hitting that “buy” button.

Coverage: Nationwide or Just the Big Cities?

Not all eSIM providers provide the same service, and remember, the United States is large. Some providers offer full nationwide coverage across the U.S., while others only work in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Neither is necessarily better or worse, it just depends on what you need.

If you’re planning a cross-country road trip or heading to more rural areas (think Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon), make sure your provider partners with major U.S. networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon for reliable service. The best eSIM for USA travel, as in, cross-continent, is definitely one of the ones we just mentioned.

Data Plans and Pricing: What’s Your Expected Usage?

eSIM providers offer a variety of plans:

Pay-as-you-go: Ideal for light travelers who only need occasional internet access.
Fixed data plans: Common options include 1GB, 5GB, or 10GB packages, usually valid for a set number of days.
Unlimited data: Perfect for those who stream, video call, and stay connected 24/7. Just beware of possible speed throttling after hitting a certain limit.

Prices range from around $5–$10 for 1GB, while unlimited plans typically cost $20–$50 per month, depending on the provider in question. So, if you want to have no cap on what you have access to, you better look for the best eSIM fr unlimited data – luckily, if you read on, you’ll see that we have a few on offer!

Internet Speed and Network Quality: 4G Vs. 5G

Most eSIMs in the U.S. offer 4G LTE speeds, but some premium providers now include 5G access in major cities, too, which is always a bonus.

If you’re a heavy data user – like, watching loads of YouTube videos, taking countless Zoom meetings, or constantly posting on social media – go for an eSIM that guarantees high-speed access on 5G networks. Otherwise, 4G LTE will work just fine for general browsing and navigation, it just might be a bit slow for other things.

Device Compatibility: Is Your Phone eSIM-Ready?

Not all phones support eSIMs, so double-check before you buy one. In the U.S., eSIM works on most recent smartphones, including:

Apple: iPhone 14, iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone SE (2020 & later)
Samsung: Galaxy S23, S22, S21, Z Flip, Z Fold
Google: Pixel 7, Pixel 6, Pixel 5
Other brands: Many newer Motorola, Huawei, and OnePlus devices

Interestingly enough, iPhones sold in the U.S. no longer even have physical SIM slots (okay, futuristic America! So if you’re using a newer model, an eSIM is actually your only option!

Validity and Expiration: Don’t Let Your Plan Expire Mid-Trip

eSIM plans typically have a set validity period – normally between seven and 30 days or longer. If you’re staying for a short trip, a 10-day or 15-day plan might be enough. For longer visits, though, check if the provider allows top-ups or extensions so you don’t have to buy a new eSIM mid-trip, because that would be inconvenient and unnecessary (if you can avoid it).

Customer Support and App Experience: Is It Easy to Use?

The best eSIM providers offer seamless activation through a mobile app, letting you scan a QR code and get connected in minutes. Before you buy anything, check if the provider offers 24/7 customer support, preferably with live chat. The last thing you want is to get stuck without internet and not be able to get help – an absolute nightmare while in a foreign country.

Top 10 Best eSIM Providers for Travel in the USA

Here are our top 10 best eSIM cards for USA travel.

Airalo: Best for Global Travelers

Airalo is a go-to choice for international travelers looking for affordable and reliable eSIM options. With coverage in over 200 countries, it’s perfect for those hopping between destinations without dealing with multiple SIM cards.

Their plans are budget-friendly, easy to activate, and work seamlessly across various mobile networks. Whether you’re on a short trip to the U.S. or planning a multi-country adventure, Airalo ensures you stay connected without forcing you to blow yur life savings.

Coverage: All of the USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, Australia, and more
Pricing: $4.50 for 1GB (7 days), $26 for 10GB (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE on major U.S. networks, no 5G access
Best For: Travelers hopping between multiple countries, including the US
Pros: Affordable, works in 200+ countries.
Cons: No unlimited data option, no 5G coverage.

Nomad: Best for Regional Flexibility

Nomad is great for travelers moving between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, as well as those who need a mix of pay-as-you-go and unlimited data plans. It provides a variety of options to fit different needs, whether you’re on a short trip or an extended stay. The pricing is competitive, and you can find both budget-friendly and unlimited data options, depending on how much you’re happy to spend.

Coverage: USA, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia.
Recommended Plan: Unlimited USA data for $45 (30 days).
Pricing: Starts at $6 for 1GB (7 days), unlimited data from $45 (30 days).
Speed and Network: 4G LTE nationwide, 5G in select U.S. cities.
Best For: Travelers who visit multiple regions frequently.
Pros: Affordable unlimited plans, and 5G access in select locations within the USA.
Cons: Limited customer support, not the cheapest for short trips.

Holafly: Best for Unlimited Data Plans

Do you want truly unlimited data without worrying about hitting a cap? Holafly is the answer. This provider offers flat-rate unlimited data for travelers who need constant internet access – perfect great for video calls, streaming, or working remotely.

Just keep in mind that speeds may slow down after excessive usage, as there’s a fair-use policy in place.

Coverage: USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, Latin America
Recommended Plan: USA Unlimited Data for $64 (30 days)
Pricing: Starts at $19 for 5 days, up to $64 for 30 days (unlimited data)
Speed & Network: 4G LTE via AT&T & T-Mobile (no 5G)
Best For: Travelers who need worry-free, high-data usage
Pros: No data caps (score!), and simple QR code activation
Cons: Speed may slow after heavy usage, and there are no pay-as-you-go plans.

GigSky: Best for Business Travelers

Business travelers need reliable, high-speed data for work, and GigSky delivers exactly that. Offering robust coverage across the U.S. and 190+ other destinations, GigSky is a great choice for professionals who need seamless connectivity. Their data plans are premium-priced, but you’re paying for quality service and priority network access in many locations so if you’re traveling further than just the US, it’s even more worth the price tag.

Coverage: USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, and 190+ destinations.
Recommended Plan: 10GB for $50 (30 days)
Pricing: Starts at $10 for 1GB (7 days), up to $50 for 10GB (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE, 5G available in specific cities
Best For: Business travelers needing fast, stable connections consistently
Pros: Reliable service with priority access, works on both iOS & Android
Cons: More expensive than some competitors, and no unlimited data plans.

Truphone: Best for Seamless Activation

Don’t want to deal with QR codes or complicated setups? Don’t even worry about it – Truphone offers instant activation directly through its app (in fact, it’s one of the best eSIM apps for USA providers and plans). It’s perfect for tech novices or anyone who wants a quick and easy setup. While its pricing is a little bit hefty, Truphone makes up for it with convenience and solid U.S. network coverage.

Coverage: USA, UK, Europe, and key global destinations.
Recommended Plan: Unlimited USA data for $50 (30 days)
Pricing: Starts at $10 for 1GB (30 days), unlimited data for $50 (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE, 5G in some areas (you can check the specifics)
Best For: Travelers who want an instant setup with no hassle
Pros: No QR codes needed, and he app is super easy to use
Cons: Limited rural coverage, and more expensive than some alternatives.

Ubigi: Best for Long-Term Travelers

Planning on staying in the U.S. for a while? Ubigi offers some of the best long-term eSIM plans with high data allowances and competitive pricing. It’s a great choice for students, digital nomads, or anyone planning an extended stay in the U.S., whatever the reason.

Coverage: USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, and 180+ destinations
Recommended Plan: 10GB for $19 (30 days)
Pricing: Starts at $8 for 3GB (30 days), up to $19 for 10GB (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE, no 5G
Best For: Long-term travelers and students.
Pros: Very affordable multi-month plans and good urban coverage.
Cons: No unlimited data options, and internet speeds are slower in rural areas

KnowRoaming: Best for Frequent Travelers

Frequent travelers who need consistent global coverage will love KnowRoaming. Their plans are slightly pricier than some competitors, but they offer excellent reliability in the U.S. and 200+ destinations.

Coverage: USA, Europe, Asia, South America, and 200+ countries
Recommended Plan: Unlimited USA data for $70 (30 days)
Pricing: Starts at $9 for 1GB (7 days), up to $70 for unlimited data (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE, no access to 5G networks
Best For: Frequent travelers needing global connectivity
Pros: Works in 200+ countries, so you can use it beyond your American holiday, and unlimited plans are available
Cons: More expensive than some alternatives, and No 5G support

BNESIM: Best for Flexible Pay-As-You-Go Plans

If you hate being locked into fixed plans, BNESIM is a great choice. It’s one of the few eSIM providers that offers fully flexible pay-as-you-go data, meaning you only pay for what you use which is great. Whether you’re a light data user or a heavy streamer, BNESIM lets you customize your plan on the go.

Coverage: USA, Europe, Asia, and 170+ countries worldwide
Recommended Plan: Pay-as-you-go with rates from $0.02 per MB
Pricing: Customizable; 10GB for ~$30 (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE (no 5G)
Best For: Travelers who want flexible, pay-as-you-go data
Pros: No contracts or pre-set plans, and it works in 170+ countries
Cons: Pay-as-you-go can be more expensive for heavy users, and no unlimited data plans available

Flexiroam: Best for Multi-Country Travel

Flexiroam is a global eSIM powerhouse, ideal for people traveling across multiple countries. If you’re visiting the U.S. but also hopping over to Canada, Mexico, or beyond for a quick, spontaneous visit, this is a solid choice. The app is easy to use, and you can keep your eSIM active for up to one year, making it great for long-term travelers.

Coverage: USA, Canada, Europe, Asia, and 150+ countries
Recommended Plan: 10GB Global Plan for $49 (180 days)
Pricing: Starts at $5 for 1GB (7 days), up to $49 for 10GB (180 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE (no 5G, unfortunately)
Best For: Travelers who frequently switch between countries
Pros: Long validity period (up to a year), and it works in 150+ countries
Cons: No unlimited data plans, and speeds can vary between regions.

Simtex: Best for Affordable Data In Most Locations

Simtex is a lesser-known eSIM provider, but if you travel between the USA and Asia, it’s a hidden gem. While its strongest deals are in Asia, it also offers competitive U.S. data plans. It’s a budget-friendly option, great for those who need affordable, no-frills connectivity.

Coverage: USA, Asia (especially Japan, China, Thailand), and Europe
Recommended Plan: 5GB USA Plan for $15 (30 days)
Pricing: Starts at $5 for 1GB (7 days), up to $40 for 20GB (30 days)
Speed and Network: 4G LTE (no 5G)
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers who also visit Asia frequently
Pros: Affordable pricing for the USA and Asia, and the app is nice and easy to use
Cons: No unlimited data options, and customer support is limited.

How to Set Up an eSIM for International Travel to the USA

So, you’re heading to the USA and want to skip the hassle of swapping SIM cards? Smart move. Setting up an eSIM is ridiculously easy – all you have to do is follow a few simple steps, and you’ll be connected faster than you can say “free Wi-Fi.”

Step 1: Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM

Sorry to say, but not all phones are cool enough for eSIMs. If you have an iPhone XS or newer, a Google Pixel 3+, or a Samsung Galaxy S20 and up, you’re golden. But if you’re rocking an older phone, you might have to stick with a physical SIM. Luckily, all iPhones sold in the USA nowadays actually only take eSIMS!

Step 2: Choose a Provider Based on Being in the USA

Not all eSIMs are the same! If you’re road-tripping across the States, pick a provider with nationwide coverage (think Airalo or Nomad). If you’re staying in big cities like NYC or LA, you might get away with a cheaper regional plan.

Step 3: Buy a Plan and Receive a QR Code

Once you’ve chosen your provider, buy a plan online. Your provider will email you a QR code – don’t delete it! You’ll need this to activate your eSIM.

Step 4: Scan the QR Code to Install the eSIM

Go to your phone settings, find the “Add eSIM” option, and scan the code. Just like that, your digital SIM is in business – easy as ever.

Step 5: Set the eSIM as Your Primary Data Provider

Make sure your eSIM is set to handle data, calls, and texts – unless you like surprise roaming fees from your home carrier (ad who wants that?).

Step 6: Test Connectivity Before Departure

Activate your eSIM before you land in the USA. Nothing’s worse than arriving at JFK and realizing your internet is MIA – it’s a no from me!

eSIM Vs. Local Sim Vs. Roaming: What’s the Best Choice When You’re Traveling In the USA?

Look, it’s no secret that eSIMS are’ your only option – you could still use a local SIM or roaming, if you’d prefer. And in some cases, these OG options can be great. But it’s more complciated than that, so we’ll break it down for you.

Cost: Who’s the Cheapest?

eSIM: Generally cheaper than roaming, and way less hassle than a local SIM. Prices vary, but many providers offer affordable short-term plans – perfect if you just need data for a couple of weeks in the USA. But for longer than that, it can be a little pricey.
Local SIM: If you’re staying in the USA for a while, a local SIM from AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon might be the cheapest option. But, buying and activating one can be a pain, especially if your phone isn’t unlocked. Also, the US is trying to phase physical SIM cards out, so this is likely to become less of an option in coming years.
Roaming: The most expensive option by a country mile. Your home carrier might offer a travel plan, but expect to pay $10+ per day for data, which adds up fast. There’s good reason some of us still have nightmares about accidental roaming.

Ease of Use: What’s the Least Hassle?

eSIM: Super easy. No store visits, no fumbling with tiny SIM cards – just scan a QR code and you’re online. Perfect if you want to land in the USA with instant connectivity.
Local SIM: Requires finding a store, showing ID, and manually swapping out your SIM – definitely not an easy process. Fine for long stays, but pretty annoying if you’re only visiting for a short trip.
Roaming: No setup needed, just turn on your phone and go. The downside? That ridiculous price tag. But if all you’re looking for is convenience and you’re not worried about the price tag, roaming is definitely simple.

Speed and Network Quality: Who Has the Fastest Internet?

eSIM: Connects you to top networks like T-Mobile, AT&T, or Verizon with 4G and 5G speeds. Reliable in big cities, but speeds can drop in remote areas.
Local SIM: Offers the best speeds and coverage, but you need to pick the right carrier – Verizon is best for rural areas, T-Mobile for cities, and AT&T is a solid middle ground. So, it can depend on where you’re going to be.
Roaming: Often slower than an eSIM or local SIM, and some carriers throttle your speeds after a certain amount of data usage.

Availability: Which Option is the Easiest to Get?

eSIM: You can buy an eSIM online before you even leave home, and instant activation makes it the easiest option for most travelers.
Local SIM: Available at airports, phone stores, and even some convenience stores. But be warned – some carriers require a U.S. address to activate, so you may not be able to do this.
Roaming: Always available, but at a ridiculous cost.

What’s the Best Option for You?

eSIM: Best for travelers visiting multiple U.S. cities who want easy, affordable connectivity without hunting for a SIM card.
Local SIM: Ideal for long-term visitors staying in one place for a month or more.
Roaming: Only worth it if you forgot to plan ahead or need emergency connectivity.

Bottom line? If you want a stress-free, affordable option, eSIMs are the way to go – no doubt about it.

FAQs About the Best eSIM for USA Travel

Can I use multiple eSIMs on one device?

Yes, most modern iPhones and Androids let you store multiple eSIMs, but you can usually only use one for mobile data at a time. Perfect for U.S. travel – just switch between plans as needed!

What happens if I run out of data?

No problem. Most eSIM providers let you top up directly through their app or website in seconds. No need to reinstall anything, just add more data and keep scrolling.

Can I use an eSIM alongside my regular SIM card?

Absolutely! Most dual-SIM phones let you keep your regular SIM active for calls and texts while using an eSIM for data. This is great if you need a U.S. plan but still want to get messages from home.

Is an eSIM more secure than a physical SIM?

Yep! Since there’s no physical card to steal or swap, eSIMs are safer. Plus, they help prevent SIM cloning, which is a sneaky type of fraud you may, unfortunately, come across in the US.

How do I delete or switch between eSIMs?

It’s easy, just head to your phone’s “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” settings. You can swap between eSIMs in a few taps or delete one if you’re done with it.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

If you’re heading to the USA, an eSIM is hands down one of the easiest ways to stay connected. No need to hunt down a SIM card at the airport, worry about expensive roaming fees, or deal with swapping tiny plastic chips – just activate your plan digitally and go!

Airalo is generally considered the best option across the board for travel in the US, but if you have specific requirements, make sure you read the details of our guide above to find the very best eSIM for the USA.

Before your trip, make sure your phone supports eSIM and pick a provider that fits your travel style.

Whether you need unlimited data, a budget-friendly option, or a plan that works across multiple destinations, there’s an eSIM that’s right for you.

Activate before you land, and enjoy hassle-free connectivity across the USA!