How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card in the USA for Tourists
Oct 29,2024 | Snowdust
Table of contents
Can Tourists Buy a SIM Card in the USA?
Prepaid vs. Postpaid SIM Cards: Which Is Best for Tourists?
Best SIM Cards for Traveling in the USA
Comparison of Major USA Local Carriers
How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card in the USA for Tourists
Traveling to the United States? Staying connected is essential for navigation, bookings, and sharing those unforgettable moments online. Here’s a guide to help you understand how tourists can get a SIM card in the USA, covering the best options, where to buy them, and the advantages of ByteSIM eSIM and major carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon.
Can Tourists Buy a SIM Card in the USA?
Tourists in the USA can easily purchase a SIM card. SIM cards are sold at airports, mobile carrier stores, and retailers like Walmart or Best Buy. No ID is required to buy one.
Tourist SIM cards start at around $40 for 10 GB of data lasting 30 days, with unlimited data plans priced at $50-$60. Most plans also offer unlimited calls and texts.
Prepaid vs. Postpaid SIM Cards: Which Is Best for Tourists?
While postpaid plans are typically for long-term residents, prepaid SIM cards are a hassle-free option for tourists. Here’s a quick comparison:
For tourists, prepaid is generally the best choice due to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Best SIM Cards for Traveling in the USA
Several top carriers offer excellent prepaid plans for tourists. Here’s a look at some of the best options:
ByteSIM USA eSIM
A top choice for international travelers, ByteSIM's eSIM option makes it easy to activate service without a physical SIM. It’s particularly useful for travelers who want a fast setup and don’t want to switch SIM cards manually.
Additionally, ByteSIM’s plans are flexible, ranging from 500MB/day to unlimited data, catering to different data needs. And ByteSIM supports hotspots without any limit. Besides, ByteSIM cooperates with USA three major Carriers T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. You can switch networks manually to improve internet experience.
With a ByteSIM eSIM, you can enjoy:
- 5G Unlimited Data: Experience the fastest native 5G networks in supported regions.
- Global Coverage: Connect in more than 200 countries and regions worldwide.
- Competitive Data Plans: ByteSIM offers flexible data plans for short or long stays.
- Dedicated Android and iOS apps for managing and purchasing eSIM plans.
- 24/7 Customer Support: We're here to help anytime, anywhere.
- No Hidden Costs: Easy online purchase with no retail stores or inflated prices.
- Money Back Guarantee: Your satisfaction is our priority.
Even if you want to travel to other countries, ByteSIM will still cover you with different regions eSIMs:
- eSIM for Europe
- eSIM for North America
- eSIM for South America
- eSIM for Asia
- eSIM for Africa
- eSIM for Global
---> You may want to get USA eSIMs with calls and texts.
T-Mobile
Known for its extensive 5G coverage, T-Mobile provides several prepaid plans with unlimited data, text, and calling options, perfect for tourists who want reliable service at a competitive price.
T-Mobile has various prepaid SIM options with unlimited calls and texts:
- 2GB for $30 per month
- 10GB for $40 per month
- Unlimited data for $50 per month
They also provide data-only plans designed for tablets and hotspots:
- 2GB for $10 monthly
- 6GB for $25 monthly
- 10GB for $50 monthly
For service in neighboring countries like Canada or Mexico, there is an extra fee between $5 and $15.
Network Coverage
AT&T
With strong nationwide coverage, AT&T offers prepaid plans that come with a good balance of data and flexibility. AT&T’s tourist plans typically include data, unlimited texts, and calls, ideal for both urban areas and rural travel.
Here’s a quick overview of data plans available:
- 5 GB of high-speed data for 30 days at $30
- 15 GB of high-speed data for 30 days at $40
- Unlimited data for 30 days at $65
- 16 GB per month of high-speed data for 3 months at $99
- Unlimited data for 12 months at $300
Network Coverage
Verizon
Verizon’s prepaid plans offer excellent rural coverage, especially for travelers venturing into the less-populated areas of the USA. With options for high-speed data and hotspot usage, Verizon remains a strong choice.
Here’s a summary of popular plans that include unlimited calls and texts from the USA to over 200 countries and regions:
- 2GB of 4G LTE data for $30 per month
- 5GB of 4G LTE data for $40 per month
- 10GB of 4G LTE data for $50 per month
- Two unlimited data plans available at $70 and $85 per month
Network Coverage
Comparison of Major USA Local Carriers
This table shows a comparison between T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon in terms of 5G capabilities, with a focus on upload speeds, coverage and video experience performance.
T-Mobile has the fastest 5G upload speeds at 226.7 Mbps, well ahead of Verizon at 150.5 Mbps and AT&T at 142.1 Mbps. For 4G upload speeds, Verizon takes the lead with 21.2 Mbps, slightly faster than T-Mobile’s 18.8 Mbps and AT&T’s 14.1 Mbps. In areas with less 5G coverage, this could make a difference.
When it comes to 5G availability, T-Mobile also stands out, giving users access to 5G about 68% of the time. AT&T and Verizon lag here, with coverage available only 11.8% and 7.7% of the time. For overall access, T-Mobile’s reach is a clear benefit.
In video quality, Verizon scores highest with 70.2 points, followed closely by T-Mobile at 67.9 and AT&T at 65.4. Verizon’s strong score suggests a solid performance for HD streaming and smooth video playback.
Overall, T-Mobile leads in speed and coverage, while Verizon shines in the video experience.
How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card in the USA for Tourists
There are several convenient ways to buy a prepaid SIM card upon arriving in the USA. Here’s a quick guide to the options:
International Airports Upon Arrival
At major airports like New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and Orlando (MCO), you’ll find kiosks or shops selling SIM cards, often with international roaming options.
These kiosks are typically located near arrivals or baggage claim, providing a quick and easy way for travelers to get connected right away.
Though convenient, airport prices are usually higher than other places—and you may face long lines.
Authorized Retail Stores
You’ll find AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon retail stores throughout the USA. These stores offer direct assistance and a broader selection of data plans.
If you have specific questions or prefer hands-on help, visiting a store can be a smart option. These locations are common in major cities and shopping centers.
Convenience Stores
For a fast and simple option, convenience stores like 7-Eleven, CVS, and Walgreens sell prepaid SIM cards for tourists in the USA.
Though the selection is limited, these stores are perfect for a quick, last-minute SIM purchase—and you can grab some snacks while you’re there!
Electronics Stores
Retailers such as Best Buy and Walmart often have a diverse selection of SIM cards available for purchase. These stores stock SIM cards from various major carriers, allowing customers to choose the one that best suits their needs.
Whether you are looking for prepaid options, contract plans, or specific data packages, you can find a range of choices to fit your mobile connectivity requirements.
Not all electronics stores carry SIM cards, so it’s best to check ahead before visiting.
FAQs
Can I buy a prepaid SIM card in the USA as a tourist?
Yes, tourists can easily buy a SIM card in airports upon arrival. You can also get it in retail stores, convenience stores like 7-Eleven and electronics stores.
Can I use my original plan in the USA?
Yes. Most network carriers provide roaming services in other countries for their users. But please note that international data roaming may be quite expensive.
Does ByteSIM work with all unlocked devices?
Yes, ByteSIM’s eSIMs work with most unlocked smartphones that support eSIM functionality. Besides, ByteSIM cooperates with USA three major Carriers T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. This network diversity allows users to find the best signal in different areas of Croatia, avoiding issues with unstable connections.
Which Carrier has the best coverage in the USA?
Verizon has the best network coverage in USA for 4G and LTE. If you want to get 5G, T-Mobile will be a better choice since it has a border 5G coverage.
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