How to buy a prepaid SIM card in the United States

Planning a trip to the United States — whether for a coast-to-coast road trip, exploring the bustling streets of New York City, or visiting the national parks — requires careful preparation. One of the most important aspects of your preparation is ensuring you have reliable, affordable mobile data. But, if you’re travelling from the UK, navigating international roaming fees and local US options can be confusing.

In this guide, we break down your options and explain why an eSIM for the United States is a convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected.

eSIM T&Cs apply.

Why reliable mobile data is essential for your United States trip

Beyond the obvious need to share your holiday snaps, connectivity is vital for several reasons:

• Navigation: using apps like Google Maps or other digital maps to navigate large cities or plan road trips
• Communication: getting in contact with hotels, restaurants, and tour operators
• Ride-sharing: booking local transport like Uber or Lyft
• Safety: having access to emergency numbers and resources the moment you need them

Without a US SIM card, you rely entirely on public WiFi, which can be patchy, slow, and potentially unsecure.

Can I use my UK SIM card in the United States?

The answer is yes, but it's almost always the most expensive option. Since Brexit, many UK mobile networks (like Vodafone, EE, and Three) have re-introduced or increased daily charges and out-of-bundle rates for roaming outside Europe.

The high costs of roaming with a UK SIM card

The US is one of the most expensive roaming zones for most UK providers. While specific rates vary, you could face charges relating to:

• Daily passes: paying a daily fee (often between £6–8) to unlock your home plan's data allowance. These can quickly add up on a 2-week trip.
• Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) rates: if you don't buy a pass, the charges are often expensive. Data can cost upwards of £1 per MB (megabyte), meaning a few minutes of video streaming or a simple map download could cost a lot.
• Hidden use: even background apps updating or receiving a simple text message can trigger minimum daily charges or start accumulating fees you won't see until your bill arrives.

If you're travelling on a budget or plan to stay in the country for more than a few days, using your UK mobile plan isn't a good idea. It's usually best to switch off data roaming as soon as you land in the US to avoid bill shock.

Local United States SIM cards: your traditional options

The US market is dominated by 3 main mobile network operators (MNOs): T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon.

These operators offer dedicated prepaid plans, typically structured as monthly bundles with a fixed amount of high-speed data and unlimited domestic calls and texts.

Leading US mobile operators and plans

The 3 main players offer extensive coverage, though the quality can differ significantly between urban areas and rural states. Here's a brief look at what they typically offer:

• Verizon is known for having the best coverage across the country. It's especially good in rural areas, mountains, and along long highways.
• T-Mobile offers high speed and urban coverage, boasting the largest 5G network in the US.
• AT&T is a reliable alternative with widespread coverage across the US. Its network is often favoured on the East Coast and in Southern states.

Where can I buy a US prepaid SIM card?

• Airports: SIM cards from T-Mobile and AT&T are available at kiosks in the arrivals halls of major international airports like JFK, LAX, or Orlando. However, prices here are often higher than in the city.
• Retail stores: the best option for price and selection is usually visiting large retail chains like Walmart, Best Buy, or Target, which sell prepaid starter kits and SIM cards from all major providers.
• Official stores: visiting an official store (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) ensures proper activation and technical support but can involve queueing and talking to sales staff who are focused on upselling resident-level plans.

The modern alternative: why a US eSIM is the smarter choice

While buying a local prepaid SIM card is better than relying on expensive UK roaming, it still involves hassle and takes time. This is where embedded SIMs (eSIMs) offer a solution, and we're leading the charge for travellers.

An eSIM is a digital SIM profile embedded in your phone's hardware. Instead of swapping out tiny pieces of plastic, you simply install a data plan digitally using a QR code or an activation code.

The advantage of Revolut eSIMs

We offer a range of regional and global eSIM plans, including a dedicated United States eSIM option that can be purchased and activated in-app.

By choosing a digital solution, you can land in the US with your connectivity already sorted, skipping the in-store purchases and the expense of US prepaid plans (which are often costly compared to global alternatives). You can search for directions and contact your accommodation from the moment you step off the plane.

Staying connected across the region

If your holiday involves travel beyond the US, perhaps to Canada or Mexico, buying multiple physical SIM cards is inconvenient. Our regional plans, including our North America eSIM, offer coverage across multiple countries, ensuring you remain connected throughout your entire multi-stop itinerary without needing a new SIM at every border.

To find out more about which plans suit your trip, just check in-app. We offer plans for the United States and 100+ other countries globally.

More ways we make travelling to the United States easier

Managing your spending in US dollars (USD) is just as important as staying connected. We have various offerings designed to simplify your travel finances, making your trip more relaxing.

Spending seamlessly with the Revolut card

Exchanging currency by ordering cash from a high street bank or a bureau de change can often mean poor exchange rates. But, with a multi-currency account at Revolut, you can manage your spending in USD at competitive rates.

Our multi-currency account allows you to hold, exchange, and spend in dozens of currencies, including USD. When you use your Revolut card in the US, we automatically convert your money using competitive rates, allowing you to spend like a local without worrying about excessive fees. You can easily keep track of your transactions in real-time in-app, helping you stick to your holiday budget.

If you’re ready to start saving on your trip, explore the features of our travel money card.

18+, fees and T&Cs apply.

Protecting your trip with Revolut travel insurance

For many travellers, especially those engaging in high-risk activities like hiking in remote areas or skiing, having comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable.

Depending on your Revolut plan, you may have travel insurance benefits included, ranging from medical emergencies to trip cancellations and flight delays. Knowing you have reliable coverage means you can enjoy your adventure with greater peace of mind. Check your specific plan details in-app to see what coverage is included.

Insurance policy T&Cs (incl. exclusions) apply.

Getting started with a Revolut eSIM

Here's how you can set up your US eSIM in just a few taps:

1. Open or download Revolut. Signup only takes a few minutes.
2. Go to RevPoints from your home screen. Next, tap eSIM.
3. Choose your plan. Select the United States eSIM or a regional plan that best fits your trip length and data needs. You can also explore our range of Global eSIMs.
4. Buy and activate. Complete the purchase and follow the simple on-screen instructions to download the eSIM profile to your device.
5. Land and connect. Make sure your data roaming is turned on for the new eSIM line (and off for your home SIM line) in your settings and get connected the moment you touch down in the US.

Final travel tips for the US

Now you’ve got your SIM card for the US sorted, here are a few extra tips to ensure a smooth trip:

1. Taxes and tipping: remember that prices listed in stores and restaurants rarely include sales tax, and tipping is mandatory for service staff (typically 15–20%).
2. Cash and cards: card payments are accepted almost everywhere. However, carrying some cash (in US dollars) is useful for small vendors or tolls. You can withdraw cash from ATMs using your Revolut card.
3. Driving: the US is vast. Fuel stops can be infrequent in rural areas, so make sure you plan routes and stops in advance.
4. Local apps: download local navigation apps, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, and state-specific sightseeing apps before you go.

No withdrawal fees charged by Revolut within your plan's rolling monthly limit. Fair-usage fees and third-party ATM fees may apply.

Planning a trip to another country and looking for the best SIM card options? Check out our different guides to:

• Australia SIM card
• Saudi-Arabia SIM card
• Morocco SIM card
• Turkey SIM card
• Dubai SIM card
• Egypt SIM card
• Spain SIM card
• South-Africa SIM card
• Japan SIM card
• Thailand SIM card

The information provided is accurate as of 15 October 2025.

The content of this page is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. If you have any questions about your personal circumstances, please seek professional and independent advice. Revolut is not a financial adviser.