When most people think about travel preparedness, they assume they only need to prepare when traveling internationally. But did you know that traveling the USA requires just as much planning as traveling internationally? Especially if you, like most travels, need to access the internet during your travel. One of the most overlooked aspects of traveling the USA is the need for a USA travel SIM card. The following are the top reasons why you’ll need a USA travel SIM card when traveling anywhere in the United States.
Unreliable WiFi and Weak Connections
You might assume that modern technology ensures you’ll never be somewhere without a strong WiFi connection, but you would be very wrong. There are many areas in the USA where WiFi is unreliable, spotty--or simply nonexistent. If you are using a USA travel SIM card, you don’t need to worry about unreliable WiFi.
Expensive Data Roaming Plans
If you’ve ever been hit with a data roaming charge, then you know how expensive and frustrating these charges can be. A USA travel SIM card will protect you from these expensive roaming plans by offering you internet access without the extravagant fees.
Who are the best travel sim providers?
SIMS Direct - Travel SIM Card
Smartphones have revolutionized modern travel. It's so easy to use your smartphone while on holiday. You will want to be connected whether you are trying to navigate a new place, book flights, or stay in touch with family and friends back home.
If you wish to retain your SIM, most major Australian telcos offer international roaming options. Although it should work in most major US cities, the cost can be quite high at $5-10 per daily.
As a budget-friendly alternative, we recommend getting a local SIM card.
- T-mobile: Check out their 30-day + 2GB + 1000 minute + unlimited texts tourist plan starting at $44AUD
- Verizon: Verizon offers a variety of plans, including a 30 day + 3GB plan with unlimited call and text for $59 AUD.
- AT&T: Check out their tourist plans. 1GB is $51 AUD, 6GB $66 AUD.
Instead of trying to find a local SIM at the airport, you can check out our USA SIM options. It is easy to find the right option for you. Then, you can buy it before you fly and then you can just put it in your phone once you arrive in the States.
USA travel tips: Make sure to get the most from your data. Use your SIM to make free calls and text messages.
Simify - Travel SIM Card
How can I locate my mobile number?
After activating your SIM, you can only get your number. Your new US mobile number will then be texted to your after activation in the US.
How can I check my balance?
Just dial #932# to see how much data was used. You can ignore any messages or prompts regarding your credit balance.
How do I recharge?
The SIM cannot be recharged, as stated on the website. This can be avoided by purchasing multiple SIM cards that you can swap out as needed.
How is the coverage?
The coverage map can be found here.
What is the best way to make calls/texts?
You can dial the local USA number using your phone. For interstate calls, you may need to dial a state code.
TraveleX - Travel SIM Card
When you travel abroad, mobile data can be a valuable resource. It is extremely useful and seems to disappear far too quickly.
Even though it may seem small, even if you're scrolling Facebook or checking your emails or listening to Spotify music, these little actions can add up. If you don't understand your data usage, you could feel like you're playing Russian Roulette and praying to the data gods you won't suddenly use 500MB per touch of your phone.
When you go on holiday, you don't want your data stress to become a permanent part of your life. There are more important things you need to consider, such as what is for lunch and how to say wine in Spanish. (It's "vino", FYI).
It's important to be aware of the basics and make smart decisions when it comes data. You can monitor data-hungry apps, tweak your phone settings, and learn some good habits.
So why take the risk? Use a Travel Sim from travelex.
Why Choose a Travel SIM?
Ease of Mind and Increased Security
Think about all of the personal data that you access with your mobile phone, tablet or laptop/computer. Emails with sensitive information, both business and personal; bank accounts, PayPal accounts and other finances; social media that may even be tied to your employment. There is so much sensitive information accessed through the internet nowadays, which is why internet security is essential. Using public WiFi and similar WiFi hotspots that you might find while traveling (such as WiFi in cafes or restaurants) may not be private or secure. A USA travel SIM card will provide you ease of mind with increased security that keeps your information private.
How to Get a SIM Card
Now that you know why you need a USA travel SIM card, you’ll need to get one. There are two primary ways that you can get a SIM card for traveling in the USA: purchasing online or buying one from a local shop.
Purchasing online is fairly straightforward. You can access a wide range of USA travel SIM card prices as well as different SIM card plan options. However, you’ll need to buy enough in advance that you receive the SIM card in the mail before your trip. This option is best if you have a bit of time before you travel.
Purchasing From Local Shops
You can also purchase SIM cards from a shop. It is best to opt for local shops, such as convenience stores or banks that offer these services, rather than airports or travel hubs. This is because airports, train stations and similar travel hubs will hike up the prices of SIM cards--even for SIM cards intended with USA travel. You’ll get a much better deal if you buy your USA travel SIM card online or in a local shop rather than these locations.
FAQs About Travel SIM Card
You will get a new phone number that is local to the country where you bought the SIM. Depending on the country and the service you have, you may have access to voice mail. But some wireless operators in some countries don't offer it for prepaid users.
A travel SIM card allows you to connect to a local network in various countries around the world. In this manner, you can avoid excessive roaming fees that your local operator or carrier may charge when you are abroad.
TravelSim airtime/credit lasts one year (12 months) from your last recharge/top-up. Your SIM card will stay “live” as long as you recharge/top up once in 12 months. If you are purchasing a data plan, the valid timespan is stated on each data plan (between 14 and 30 days from activation).