Best eSIMs for Traveling to the USA in 2025 | Plans from $1

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

In this guide you can find a comparison of the best eSIMs for the United States, up to date prices as per April 2025, all the USA eSIM specifications, my recommendation and the advantages and disadvantages of eSIMs.

Whether you're looking for a cheap eSIM plan for USA or need unlimited data eSIM for tourists, this guide compares the top eSIM plans to help you find the perfect fit.

Find out where and how to buy an eSIM, how to activate an eSIM, answers to FAQ about eSIMs, a comparison with local prepaid sim cards and of course links to directly order your eSIM for the United States on the internet.

Table of Contents

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

Traveltomtom also wrote a complete guide for buying a tourist sim card in the USA and you can also find guides for buying a sim card on arrival at Miami Airport, Newark Airport, New York JFK Airport, Los Angeles Airport and San Fransisco Airport.

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

My recommendation

Before giving you my favorite eSIMs for the USA read the following carefully!

eSIMs only work in unlocked phones that are eSIM compatible. So make sure about this before ordering an eSIM for the USA.

Traveltomtom recommends the following eSIMs for traveling to the USA in 2025:

Change+ eSIM for the USA from Airalo

• $34.50 USD
• 10 GB data
• 200 minutes
• 100 sms
• Valid in USA + Puerto Rico, Alaska is excluded
• Valid for 30 days
• Operates on T-Mobile network
• 5G ready
• $2.60 USD per Gigabyte

Click here for more info or to order an Airalo eSIM for traveling in the USA.

Use the Airalo discount code: TOMTOM3 to get an extra $3 USD off your first Airalo eSIM.

Airalo is one of the few eSIM provider that offer USA eSIMs that support 5G network including calling and texting. Therefore it is an easy choice to rate Airalo as the best eSIM provider for USA eSIMs.

You can also get a data-only eSIM with 10 GB data for $26 USD or for $16 USD you get 5 GB data-only.

Airhub eSIM for the USA

• $31.98 USD
• Unlimited 5G high speed data
• Unlimited voice & sms
• Valid in USA
• Valid for 30 days
• No hotspot
• Operates on T-Mobile network

Click here for more info or to order an eSIM for the USA via Airhub app.

Airhub has multiple amazing eSIM plans for the USA, lots of them with truly unlimited high speed data. The only disadvantage about an Airhub eSIM is that they are activated right away when purchasing.

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USA eSIM comparison

On arrival in the USA you can also buy a tourist eSIM in an official phone store from Verizon, T-Mobile or AT&T, but that is more expensive. For around $65 USD you get unlimited data, calls & sms in the USA for 30 days.

At none of the international airports in the USA there are Verizon, T-Mobile or AT&T shops so you have to locate a phone store nearby your hotel, get in line, bring your passport for registration, etc. Much more work than just ordering an eSIM on the internet.

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for traveling in USA from one of the well-known eSIM providers that have proven to be reliable operators: Jetpac, Holafly, SimOptions, Nomad, Airalo, GigSky, Airhub, aloSIM, Saily, Roamless, Firsty, Yesim, Sim Local, Ubigi, etc.

Here is a quick comparison table of the eSIM providers.

Still Unsure? Check out our full eSIM comparison of all providers below!

Jetpac

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

The Traveltomtom team has tried Jetpac now in a couple different countries without any issues, only positive reviews. Read our independent Jetpac review for a more in-depth look at Jetpac eSIMs.

One of the main reasons why Jetpac is listed as one of the best eSIMs for USA are their competitive prices and in fact when we look at the price per Gigabyte, Jetpac is the best eSIM for USA in 2025.

Check out the Jetpac eSIM plans for USA in 2025:

• 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 = $15 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $20 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD
• 40 GB data for 30 days = $33 USD
• 50 GB data for 10 days = $25 USD

Click here to order a Jetpac eSIM for the United States.

Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 10% off on all Jetpac eSIMs when using the promo code: TOMTOM10 at check out!

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

But Jetpac goes even lower nowadays with only $0.5 USD per Gigabyte on their 50 GB data plan for 10 days for only $25 USD!

You can instal your Jetpac eSIM 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 eSIMs have to be installed within 1 year.

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

An extra advantage of using a Jetpac eSIM is that you get a free VPN subscription, 50% discount on airport lounges and Fast Track passes. And 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.

These are all complimentary services that no other eSIM provider offers. For more info check the Jetpac website.

Airhub

Airhub is a marketplace for eSIMs meaning they sell a lot of different eSIM plans from multiple providers. This means there is much more on offer, but this can also be a little overwhelming.

The Traveltomtom Team wrote an extensive Airhub review for more info on how Airhub eSIMs work.

As you can see above Airhub sells eSIMs from AT&T, T-Mobile as well as their own eSIMs and you can choose between data-only, data& voice and even monthly subscriptions.

Here are some of the most popular Airhub eSIM plans for the USA in 2025:

• Unlimited data, voice & sms for 7 days = $8.3 USD
• Unlimited data, voice & sms for 15 days = $20 USD
• Unlimited data, voice & sms for 30 days = $31.98 USD

Click here for more info or to order an eSIM for the USA via Airhub.

When you click on the eSIM plan you get much more info.

Truly amazing eSIMs and in fact the best deal you can find on the internet. However, downside is that this eSIM is activated immediately after purchase. Meaning you pretty much have to buy it on the day you fly to the USA.

Other specifications from these eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data is that it is truly high speed 5G, no speed cap, no Fair Use Policy. That said on most of these unlimited data eSIM plans you can not use a hotspot.

Holafly

If you are a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data then there is also Holafly. This is a popular eSIM operator that only sells eSIMs with unlimited data.

Here are the Holafly eSIM plans for traveling to the USA:

• 1 day 'unlimited' data = $6.90 USD
• 3 days 'unlimited' data = $12.90 USD
• 5 days 'unlimited' data = $20.90 USD
• 7 days 'unlimited' data = $29.90 USD
• 9 days 'unlimited' data = $34.90 USD
• 10 days 'unlimited' data = $36.90 USD
• 14 days 'unlimited' data = $47.90 USD
• 20 days 'unlimited' data = $61.90 USD
• 30 days 'unlimited' data = $74.90 USD

Click here to order a USA eSIM from Holafly.

The Holafly eSIMs for USA are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These eSIMs do not come with a phone number. The Holafly eSIMs operate on the 4G/5G network of T-Mobile and Verizon. The Holafly eSIMs for the USA are 5G ready.

You can use a hotspot on the Holafly USA eSIMs, but it is capped at 1 GB per day.

Keep in mind that on Holafly eSIMs there is a Fair Use Policy (FUP). On the Holafly website the following is stated:

• Speed reduction: if necessary. Some carriers may reserve the right to apply a Fair Usage Policy.

Airalo

Airalo is another very reputable eSIM provider that is very much recommended by Traveltomtom. Ordering your eSIM for the USA through Airalo is done fast and easy.

Why using Airalo?

Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Very reliable, never an issue and often some of the cheapest eSIM deals. The Airalo eSIMs for the USA are 5G ready.

But the best thing about Airalo is that they offer eSIMs for the USA including calls and sms. No other eSIM provider has these kind of USA eSIMs available!

Airalo has data-only plans and plans including data/calls/sms.

Airalo data-only plans

Here are the USA eSIM plans for 2025 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 eSIM for USA from Airalo.

Airalo data/calls/sms plans

Here are the Airalo USA eSIM plans including calling and texting:

• 1 GB data + 20 minutes + 10 sms for 7 days = $7 USD
• 2 GB data + 40 minutes + 20 sms for 15 days = $12.5 USD
• 3 GB data + 60 minutes + 30 sms for 30 days = $16 USD
• 5 GB data + 100 minutes + 50 sms for 30 days = $22.5 USD
• 10 GB data + 200 minutes + 100 sms for 30 days = $34.5 USD
• 20 GB data + 400 minutes + 200 sms for 30 days = $49 USD

Click here to order a data/calls/text eSIM for the USA from Airalo.

Traveltomtom readers now get an extra $3 USD discount on their first Airalo eSIM.

Use the Airalo discount code: TOMTOM3 to get an extra $3 USD off your first Airalo eSIM.

All the above Change+ eSIMs are only valid in the USA + Puerto Rico and they operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of Verizon and T-Mobile. Big advantage of the Airalo eSIMs compared to SimOptions, Jetpac and Sim Local is that the Airalo eSIMs for the USA are 5G ready.

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

The Airalo eSIM plans with calling minutes included come with a phone number from the USA that starts with +1. International calls are NOT supported and also be aware that incoming calls minutes are deducted from minutes balance.

Because all the above available eSIM plans including calls and sms Airalo is rated as the best eSIM for traveling to the USA in 2025.

The USA eSIMs from Airalo have to be installed/activated on your phone within 1 month after purchase otherwise they lose their validity. After installing, the eSIMs 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.

SimOptions

SimOptions is a very reliable eSIM 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 eSIM.

SimOptions often has a wide array of eSIMs for sale, including international eSIMs valid in multiple countries, it is like a marketplace for eSIMs.

Check out our honest review of SimOptions eSIMs with all pros and cons.

Here are the SimOptions eSIM plans for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 30 days = $4.50 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $5.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $6.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $12.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $31.90 USD
• 50 GB data for 30 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order a SimOptions eSIM for the USA.

If you download the SimOptions app and use the coupon code TOM10 you get an extra 10% discount on all SimOptions eSIMs.

Their best USA eSIM gives you 50 GB data for $49.90 USD. That is less than $1 USD per Gigabyte.

SimOptions does not specify which network they use in the USA on the above eSIMs. But all eSIM plans for the USA are 5G ready. The SimOptions eSIMs are data-only and they do not come with a phone number. Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are not supported.

They also sells international eSIMs from Three HK but they are much more expensive.

The SimOptions eSIMs are valid for 1 year, meaning you have to install/activate the eSIM within 1 year. Therefore it could be a perfect travel gift for someone traveling to the USA. Once activated the validity starts automatically upon reaching the supported country. For more info check out the SimOptions website.

Sim Local

Sim Local is an eSIM provider from Europe that started with Sim Local shops at international airports in Europe selling physical prepaid sim cards for tourists. They have now also stepped into the world of eSIMs.

They have now loads of shops in many major airports around the world, but they also sell eSIMs through their website for loads of countries around the world.

Here are the Sim Local eSIM plans for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9.5 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $14 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $27.50 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $53 USD

Click here to order a USA eSIM from Sim Local.

Traveltomtom readers now get 15% off on all Sim Local eSIMs when they use the coupon code: TRAVELTOMTOM at check out!

The small eSIM plans from Sim Local are very competitive and rival other eSIM providers.

The Sim Local eSIMs are from Smartroam and they operate on the 4G/LTE network of Verizon. The Smartroam eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.

Nomad

Nomad is quickly trying to gain some ground in the eSIM business by constantly adding new eSIM deals and offers to their USA plans. The Traveltomtom Team has had some mixed experiences with Nomad eSIMs.

Nomad offers two types of eSIMs for the USA: regular plans and daily plans.

Here are the Nomad eSIM plans for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $15 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $22 USD
• 50 GB data for 30 days = $49 USD

Click here to order an eSIM for USA from Nomad.

The Nomad eSIM plans for the USA operate on the 4G/5G network of AT&T and T-Mobile. All Nomad eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.

Nomad also has daily plans. These eSIMs 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

Personally, this daily plan would not be enough for me as I can easily spend 1 GB data in just 1 hour on a bus or train ride. Watching TikTok video for about 45 minutes is about 1 GB data, watching Instagram reels for 30 minutes is also already 1 GB data.

Click here to order this Nomad daily plan eSIM for the USA from Nomad.

The Nomad USA eSIMs have to be installed/activated on your phone within 60 days after purchase otherwise they are automatically activated. After installing, the eSIMs starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands in the USA.

T-Mobile

An eSIM 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 prepaid costumer is $10 USD and on top of that T-Mobile charges another $4.99 USD for an eSIM 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 eSIM on arrival in the USA in a phone store is that it comes with unlimited calling and texting in the USA.

AT&T

An eSIM 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 eSIM 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 eSIM on arrival in the USA in a phone store is that it comes with unlimited calling and texting in the USA.

Verizon

An eSIM 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 eSIMs. 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.

What is the cheapest eSIM for the USA

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

Many eSIM providers have a 1 GB data plan for the USA. Nomad, Airalo, Simoptions all charge $4.5 USD for this plan. Sim Local has a cheaper USA tourist eSIM and charges only $4 USD for their 1 GB plan.

Then next best cheapest eSIM for tourists in the USA is again a Jetpac eSIM plan with 3 GB data for just $5 USD.

Why ordering an eSIM for traveling in the USA

eSIMs are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to USA in 2025. 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 eSIM is that you are online as soon as the plane lands and you connect to a network. More about when to instal your eSIM 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 2025.

Here are some key benefits of using an eSIM over a physical sim card:

• Instant activation without needing to visit a store.
• No risk of losing or damaging a physical SIM card.
• Ability to store multiple eSIM plans on one device.
• Seamless switching between carriers and data plans.
• Environmentally friendly with less plastic waste.
• Ideal for travelers who need quick, reliable connectivity.

eSIMs are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!

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

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

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 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 eSIM or an international prepaid sim card for traveling abroad.

Where to buy an eSIM for USA?

Online

You can only buy an eSIM for the USA on the internet through an eSIM provider. There are multiple eSIM providers for the USA. Traveltomtom compared multiple eSIM providers and determined that the ones mentioned in this guide are the best eSIM providers for traveling to USA in 2025.

When buying an eSIM for the USA through one of the above recommended eSIM providers you only need your email address and the eSIM 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 eSIM 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 eSIM 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 eSIMs 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 eSIM for traveling in the USA online.

For the best prepaid sim cards for tourists in the USA in 2025 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.

When to order/install an eSIM for the USA?

You can order an eSIM for USA pretty much any time you want. Most eSIMs 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 eSIM. The validity of some eSIMs start straight after the installation, other eSIMs only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.

Traveltomtom advices to instal your eSIM on the day departure to the USA at home. Or if you want to maximise your validity then activate your USA eSIM 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.

How to activate an eSIM

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

When you order an eSIM 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 eSIM 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 eSIM.

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

Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your eSIM is successfully installed.

Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your eSIM otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur.

Step-by-step checklist for installation

1. Purchase your USA eSIM from a trusted provider.
2. Receive your QR code via email or app.
3. Open your phone's settings and navigate to "Cellular" or "Mobile Data."
4. Select "Add Cellular Plan" or "Add eSIM."
5. Scan the QR code provided.
6. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
7. Ensure the eSIM is set as your primary data line.
8. Turn on data roaming if required by the provider.
9. Test your connection before departure to ensure everything is active

The entire eSIM activation process typically takes just a few minutes, making it a fast and hassle-free way to get connected.

Tip: if you tap on the QR code and hold it a pop up menu will appear and one of the options will say 'Instal eSIM'. Simply click on this option and your phone will instantly instal the eSIM on your phone.

Things to know before ordering an eSIM for USA

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

Make sure your phone is unlocked

To make sure you didn't miss this, let me say this again: eSIMs only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any eSIM 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 eSIMs?

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

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

If your phone is NOT eSIM compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an eSIM 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 2025 or read my guide with everything you need to know before ordering an international sim card for traveling abroad in 2025.

Can I trust these eSIM providers?

All the eSIM providers for USA recommended in this guide are reputable eSIM 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 USA.

Traveltomtom has used Airalo and SimOptions sim cards now for more than 5 years and never really faced a major issue.

Check out the pros and cons of SimOptions in our article: Honest Review of SimOptions.

Recently the Traveltomtom Team also reviewed Airhub and the results were positive and therefore we included Airhub in this USA eSIM comparison.

Jetpac is a fairly new eSIM provider and the Traveltomtom Team only received positive feedback. That is why we went to test it ourselves and came to the conclusion that Jetpac is an excellent choice. Read more about it in our extensive review about Jetpac eSIMs.

Sim Local has more than 100 sim card shops and kiosks in international airports around the world and has been selling sim cards for tourists for more than 5 years. Read Traveltomtom's honest review about Sim Local eSIM provider.

The Traveltomtom Team has extensively tested and reviewed Nomad and they have proven to be a reliable eSIM provider. However, some mixed reviews have come back from the Traveltomtom Team about connectivity and activation.

Since Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data and an FUP I hardly use Holafly, but when I did I was not happy. So now I let the Traveltomtom Team randomly test Holafly and just like myself, mixed reviews have come back. Some positive, some negative.

On top of that there is now also Firsty and Roamless. Roamless is an eSIM provider with no data expiration and Firsty gives out free data for watching ads in return. Truly two game changers!

Is support available for troubleshooting?

All eSIM providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund. As of 2025 most eSIM providers have an AI chat bot that will help you out with the most common questions.

If you encounter a bigger issue and you want direct help then you might have to wait a couple hours before you get a response, at least that are our experiences. Which can at times be very frustrating.

Most eSIM providers are very easy when it comes to troubleshooting and they quickly give you a refund or credit.

Can I keep my phone number from home with a USA eSIM?

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

So you can have multiple eSIMs 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 eSIM 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 eSIM 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 eSIM.

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

Can I make phone calls with a USA eSIM?

Yes, finally you can! Lately Airalo became the first eSIM provider to offer eSIMs for the USA that include calling minutes and texts. These data/calls/sms plans from Airalo allow you to call to any number in the USA and Puerto Rico. International calls are NOT included!

Also be aware that incoming calls are deducted from your minutes balance. Weird policy if you ask me, but for now this is how it works.

None of the other eSIM providers sell eSIMs for the USA including calls and sms. All the Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad, Sim Local and SimOptions eSIMS are data-only and do NOT support calling and texting.

This makes Airalo stand out and is also one of the main reasons why Airalo is rated as the best eSIM for traveling to the USA in 2025.

Other eSIMs that include calling and texting are the ones from Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. These are the eSIMs you buy directly from the mobile internet providers in the USA. They are available in stores in the USA.

Does a USA eSIM come with a phone number?

In general it is very simple. A data-only eSIM does not come with a phone number. The eSIMs that support calling and texting come with a phone number.

The Airalo data/calls/text eSIM plans all come with a phone number from the United States that starts with +1.

The Three HK eSIMs from SimOptions is an exception as it comes with a phone number and therefore this eSIM for the USA technically also supports incoming phone calls and sms, but unfortunately not outgoing phone calls and sms.

All the data-only eSIMs from Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad and Sim Local do NOT come with a phone number. In the above USA eSIM comparison you can find all the specifications per eSIM.

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Can I use 5G on a USA eSIM?

As of 2025 most of the USA eSIMs for tourists are 5G ready.

Are there eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data?

Traveltomtom is in general not a fan of data sim cards with unlimited data. Why? There is mostly a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy), which can sometimes be already after 1 or 2 GB data per day. That means when you hit this limit your data speed will be slowed down.

Unlimited data is only truly unlimited data if it is at max data speed without any data speed throttling.

So yes, there are eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data but always read the fine print for more details, terms & conditions.

Airhub has unlimited data eSIMs without speed throttling, truly unlimited high speed 5G data!

Holafly also provides eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data but they make use of a so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP). On the Holafly website they are not specific about their FUP.

For a truly unlimited data eSIM for the USA Traveltomtom recommends Airhub.

In T-Mobile, Verizon or AT&T phone stores in the USA you can also get prepaid sim cards with unlimited data, but much more expensive. Expect to pay around $65 USD + tax. For more info check out my guide for buying a prepaid sim card for the USA in 2025.

Best way to stay connected when traveling to USA

eSIMs 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
• eSIMs

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

To sum it up, eSIMs offer unmatched convenience, cost efficiency, and reliability, making them the smartest choice for staying connected in the USA. No more waiting in line at kiosks or worrying about hidden roaming charges!

Local prepaid sim cards

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 eSIMs. 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, San Fransisco 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 2025.

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

If your smartphone is not eSIM 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. eSIMs are mostly data-only sim cards.

eSIMs

There are two different eSIMs:

• eSIMs that you buy on the internet through a third party
• eSIMs that you buy in the USA in a mobile internet provider store

The big difference is that eSIMs 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.

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 eSIM. 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 eSIM for the USA on arrival at an international airport in the United States.

The eSIMs that you buy in the United States include unlimited texting and sms in the USA and most eSIMs that you buy on the internet do NOT support calling and texting. Only Airalo offers USA eSIMs including calls and sms. All other eSIM providers only sell data-only eSIMs for the USA.

eSIMs vs. local prepaid sim cards

Buying an eSIM 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 eSIM or a local prepaid sim card? When we compare USA eSIM prices with local prepaid sim cards for USA Traveltomtom comes to the conclusion that in fact eSIMs for the USA are better value for money.

On USA eSIMs 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 eSIM for the USA. Faster, easier and less stress!

Data speed

Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an eSIM is that eSIMs 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 eSIMs through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an eSIMs is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.

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

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

If you 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 680K Instagram account or 1.4 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 April 2025 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush. Personally, traveling is not supposed to be a race or a competition for me. Enjoy life should be the spirit!

Enjoy your trip to USA!