Going on a USA trip and need a local SIM card? It is quite hard to find a specific SIM card for the USA in your local UK brick and mortar mobile phone shop, and often an international SIM card bought in the UK may incur roaming fees.
If you have a GSM compatible phone, you may be able to use it in the USA by getting an international roaming plan from your UK network provider. However, this can be expensive and may not provide the best coverage. It is recommended to purchase a USA SIM card instead, as it will be more cost-effective and reliable.
Can I use my phone in the USA?
Yes, if you have a phone that is GSM compatible and unlocked, you can use it in the USA with a local SIM card. However, keep in mind that your UK phone may not work on certain US networks due to different frequency bands.
It is recommended to check with your UK network provider before traveling to see if your phone will work on their partnered US networks.
Why should I buy a dedicated prepaid SIM card for my trip to the US?
There are several reasons why purchasing a dedicated prepaid SIM card for your trip to the US is a better option compared to using international roaming with your home network provider.
- Cost-effective: As mentioned earlier, international roaming plans can be expensive and may come with additional charges for data usage. By getting a prepaid SIM card, you can save a significant amount of money on your phone expenses during your trip.
- Better coverage: a prepaid SIM cards is specifically designed for use in the US and therefore have better coverage compared to international roaming plans. This means you will have a more reliable connection and better call quality while traveling around the country.
- Local phone number: With a dedicated prepaid US SIM card, you will get a local phone number, making it easier and cheaper for locals to contact you. This will also make it easier for you to stay connected with friends and family who live in the US during your trip.
- Flexibility: A prepaid SIM card gives you the flexibility to choose a plan that best suits your needs. You can easily top up your data, minutes, and texts as needed, without being tied down by a contract or monthly fees.
Who sells prepaid SIM cards in the UK?
There are several brick and mortar retailers in the UK where you can purchase prepaid SIM cards for your trip to the US, as well as severa places you can buy your SIM card online. These include:
- Amazon UK: They offer a wide assortment of prepaid USA SIM cards from various carriers. Be sure to check the coverage and tariffs before purchasing.
- Mobiles.co.uk: This online store specializes in mobile phones and SIM card deals. Their range includes prepaid USA SIM cards from various international carriers.
- Carphone Warehouse: Besides selling mobile phones and contracts, they also provide a selection of international SIM cards.
- Argos: This high-street retailer also stocks some prepaid SIM cards suitable for travel.
- eBay UK: A marketplace where you can find almost anything, including prepaid local SIM cards. Be cautious about the seller’s credibility and check customer reviews before purchasing.
Please note that availability may vary, and it is recommended to buy in advance of your trip to ensure you have the SIM card in time.
Comparison between USA network providers
There are several options for purchasing a US travel SIM card, including online retailers, airports, and convenience stores. It is recommended to research different local carrier before your trip to find the best coverage options and deals to save money. Some popular local carriers include:
- T-Mobile USA: Offers prepaid SIMs with unlimited data, minutes, and texts for a flat rate. The T-Mobile network also has international coverage in Canada and Mexico with no extra roaming fee or activation fees. You can buy a T-mobile SIM card from a variety of vendors in the USA.
- AT&T: Is one of the largest mobile networks in the USA and has a variety of prepaid plans to choose from, with options for unlimited data and international calling. They also offer discounts for multiple lines, low roaming costs for travel across North America and sell dedicated SIM cards for tourists.
- Verizon: Known for their reliable network coverage, Verizon offers prepaid plans with varying amounts of data, minutes, and texts at affordable prices. They also sell a normal SIM package with unlimited texts, as well as an unlimited data ESIM.
- Walmart: This retail giant offers a range of prepaid SIM cards from different carriers, making it easy to compare and find the best option for your needs. They also have affordable international calling plans and SIMs with large international data allowances.
Which carrier has the best local coverage SIM card in the USA ?
It ultimately depends on your specific travel plans and destinations. Some carriers coverage may vary across certain states or areas, so it is essential to research beforehand by using different networks' coverage checkers.
T-Mobile and AT&T are known to have good nationwide coverage, while Verizon has a reputation for having the best overall coverage in more remote locations, like national parks or the Grand Canyon.
Can I buy a USA SIM card in the UK?
If you are planning to travel to the United States from the UK, you may be wondering where you can purchase a SIM card that will work in both countries. A USA SIM card is essential for staying connected with friends and family while abroad, as well as being able to use data services on your phone.
The good news is that there are several options available for purchasing a USA SIM card in the UK. These include:
- This article: Scroll down to the bottom of the page to find our collections of international SIM cards and eSIMs.
- Other online retailers: As mentioned earlier, online stores such as Amazon UK and Mobiles.co.uk offer a range of USA SIM cards from different carriers for you to order online.
- International airport kiosks: Some international airports in the UK have kiosks where you can purchase USA SIM cards before your flight.
- Local phone shops: There are also independent phone shops in the UK that sell USA SIM cards. Be sure to check if they have a good reputation and reliable customer service before making a purchase.
Can I buy an eSIM for the USA?
Yes, it is possible to purchase an eSIM for the USA. These products have instant delivery via email at no activation fee or extra cost. However, this option is currently only available for certain phones and carriers. Some popular carriers that offer eSIMs for the US include T-Mobile and AT&T. Alternatively, you can also purchase an eSIM directly from us by scrolling down to the bottom of this page.
