The best eSIM plans for traveling to the US in 2025

Hi everyone, I'm Cathy, a travel blogger from Canada. I was recently invited by PhoneSIMGo to explore the United States for 15 days. During this trip, I fully experienced the convenience of eSIM technology, especially in moving between major cities and at work. Today, I'm sharing my travel insights, covering everything from choosing the best eSIM, to the experience of using it, to the convenience of communicating with friends, as well as tidbits I encountered during my trip.

Which is the best eSIM to use when traveling in the US?

Choosing the right eSIM service is crucial when traveling in the U.S., especially if you need to move between cities and want to maintain a good internet connection. The major telecom carriers in the US include Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T, each with their own unique advantages and applicable scenarios.

Verizon

Advantages

• Extensive network coverage: Verizon's network coverage in the U.S. is extensive, especially in urban and rural areas. Whether in bustling New York City or remote national parks, Verizon usually provides stable signals and fast data connections.
• High Speed: In my travels, I often need to upload photos and videos, and Verizon's network is very fast. Once, I shot a short video at a beach in Los Angeles, and when I uploaded it using Verizon's eSIM, there was virtually no delay, and the comments and likes came immediately.

Suitable Scenarios

If your itinerary includes remote areas or natural attractions, such as Yosemite National Park, choosing Verizon would be a good choice because its network coverage is relatively good in these places.

T-Mobile

Advantages

• Unlimited Data Packages: T-Mobile offers unlimited data packages that are perfect for those who use social media frequently or need to be constantly online while traveling. When I was in San Francisco, I was able to upload Instagram stories and share my travel experiences whenever I wanted using T-Mobile's eSIM.
• International Roaming: T-Mobile's international roaming options are very user-friendly and a great deal for those who plan to travel outside of the United States. I had my next destination in mind when I was in Los Angeles, and if I needed to keep using the same eSIM, T-Mobile would be a great option.

Suitable Scenarios

If your travel plans include a lot of social media activity, T-Mobile's unlimited data package allows you to upload and share as much as you want without worrying about traffic.

AT&T

Advantages

• Business user support: AT&T is popular among business travelers and offers specialized enterprise solutions. When I was videoconferencing with a client in Chicago, AT&T's network stability allowed me to complete my work meeting without a hitch, ensuring smooth communication.
• Quality customer service: AT&T is known for its great customer service. When I had some technical issues while traveling, AT&T's customer support was able to quickly resolve the issue and help me stay connected.

Suitable Scenarios

For business travelers who need to take care of work matters, AT&T offers enterprise solutions and great customer service making it an ideal choice.

How to buy US esim

The process of purchasing an eSIM while traveling in the United States was relatively simple, especially since I opted for the PhoneSIMGo service. As a travel blogger, I researched several eSIM providers before my trip and finally decided to use PhoneSIMGo because it met all my needs for internet connectivity while traveling.

Steps to purchase a PhoneSIMGo eSIM

1. Visit the official website

To buy an eSIM from PhoneSIMGo, first visit their official website. The website has a clean, user-friendly design and allows you to quickly find a variety of packages suitable for both short and long term travel. This made it easier for me to compare other providers.

2. Choosing the right package

PhoneSIMGo offers several package options covering different traffic needs and validity periods. When choosing, I noticed that their packages are designed to be very flexible and suitable for different types of travelers. I chose a package that suited my 15-day trip with enough traffic to support my various needs during my trip.

3. Fill in information and pay

During the purchase process, I only had to fill in basic personal information and my real name was not required, which made me feel very comfortable, especially with the increasing importance of privacy protection these days. The payment process was also very smooth, with multiple payment methods supported to ensure that every user can complete their transaction conveniently.

4. Get QR code and activate

Immediately after completing the payment, I received a QR code that was used to activate the eSIM. upon arrival in the U.S., I simply scanned the QR code and followed the simple steps to complete the activation. This convenient process greatly reduces the hassle I may encounter while traveling.

Outstanding customer service support

What impressed me the most during my trip was the customer service of PhoneSIMGo. They provide 7x24 hour customer support and are always available to solve problems that users encounter while using the program. For example, one day when I was in Los Angeles and experienced an unstable internet connection, I immediately contacted customer support. The staff responded quickly and helped me reconfigure the settings, and the problem was quickly solved. This kind of attentive service made me feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment.

Privacy Protection

Unlike many other service providers, PhoneSIMGo does not require real names during the purchase process, which makes me feel that my privacy is guaranteed. In this day and age of information leaks, it's important to be able to find a service provider that is both convenient and secure. It also allows me to focus on enjoying my trip without worrying about privacy and security.

Premium network quality

PhoneSIMGo has partnered with major carriers such as Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T to ensure that their eSIM services are reliable in terms of quality. This was on full display as I traveled. My internet connections in major cities like New York, San Francisco and Chicago were very stable, and video calls and social media activity were stress-free. This high quality of internet service allowed me to stay in touch with my friends and family, as well as share my travel experiences whenever I wanted.

An eSIM service designed for traveling

The eSIM service from PhoneSIMGo is designed for travelers, taking into account the need for frequent movement and network coverage in different areas. This allows me to enjoy a stable internet connection wherever I go while traveling. Their packages are flexible and suitable for short-term use, perfect for travelers like me.

Does eSIM support all areas in the US?

Regarding eSIM coverage in the US, my experience has been very positive. The eSIM from PhoneSIMGo works well in major US cities and most tourist areas. The network signal was quite reliable during my travels, both in busy urban areas and in some of the more remote tourist destinations.

Network experience in a big city

In New York, I had almost no problems with signal. Whether I was using navigation while walking on the Brooklyn Bridge or taking photos in Central Park, the network was smooth. During an Instagram Live broadcast, I was able to share my travel experience with my followers without any delays.

And in San Francisco, when I was shooting on the Golden Gate Bridge, my eSIM maintained a good connection despite the crowds of tourists around me. What's more, when I was looking for restaurants in San Francisco's Chinatown, quickly searching for restaurants and sharing locations was effortless.

Notes on remote areas

While eSIM performs well in big cities, in some remote areas, such as Yosemite National Park, which I visited, network coverage is not as solid as in the city. In these places, I downloaded offline maps ahead of time and made sure I had the information I needed on my phone, just in case. This preparation allowed me to find my route and enjoy nature even when the signal was poor.

What is the difference between eSIM and data roaming?

Many people ask about the difference between eSIM and data roaming before traveling. Simply put, eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows users to quickly switch networks by scanning a QR code, while data roaming uses the original carrier's network and is usually costly.

The high cost of data roaming

While traveling in the US, my friend used data roaming and was hit with a high bill. He was surprised by the cost per MB of data, especially if he needed to use the network frequently. By using PhoneSIMGo's eSIM, I no longer worry about these extra charges, and all the traffic is included in the package, making it much more comfortable to use.

Comparison of network quality

When using eSIM, I am able to connect directly to my local internet service, which is usually faster and more stable. During a video call with a friend, I was able to maintain clear sound quality and smooth picture through eSIM. This experience allowed me to be productive with work matters even while traveling.

What are the internet speeds with US eSIM?

My internet speeds performed quite well when accessing social media using an eSIM from PhoneSIMGo. On the streets of New York, I was amazed at the speed at which I was able to upload Instagram photos with little to no delay.

Real-world experience

• Quick upload: During a photo shoot, I shot a short video in Central Park and quickly uploaded it to TikTok, which immediately received likes and comments from friends, enhancing my sharing pleasure.
• Seamless connection: When using Google to search for locations, the internet connection was very stable, and even during peak hours, I was able to quickly access the information I needed to ensure my trip went smoothly.

When is the best time for me to activate my eSIM?

The best time to activate your eSIM is the first time you arrive in the US. This not only ensures that I'll have immediate access to the network when I need it, but also prevents me from having to deal with signal issues while traveling.

Timing of activation

• Arriving at the airport: Upon arrival at the airport, I activate my eSIM using the free Wi-Fi to ensure that I can use navigation and contact friends immediately.
• When checking in at the hotel: If I do not activate it at the airport, I can also activate it when I check in at the hotel to ensure that I can enjoy the network service immediately after checking in.

Is eSIM privacy guaranteed?

In today's digital age, privacy protection is especially important. The protection of personal information when using eSIM gives me peace of mind. Many eSIM service providers do not require real-name information during the purchase process, which protects users' personal data.

Privacy Protection Guarantee

• Choose a trusted service provider: PhoneSIMGo, a reputable service provider, ensures the security of user information.
• Regularly check settings: I regularly check my phone's privacy and security settings during use to ensure that no unnecessary information is being shared.

What if my phone is not compatible with eSIM?

If your device doesn't support eSIM, while international roaming is a viable option, you'll usually face high roaming charges, which is certainly a burden for many travelers. Therefore, I highly recommend using eSIM service as it is not only more affordable, but also provides a better network experience for your travels.

1. High cost of international roaming

When traveling abroad, many people may choose to continue using their original SIM card and stay connected through international roaming. However, international roaming is often very expensive. For example, many carriers will charge high fees per MB of data traffic, and some packages can even rack up shocking bills quickly in a short period of time. Not only can such costs be a nuisance, but they can also affect your travel budget and leave you feeling worried about enjoying your trip.

2. Advantages of eSIM services

Compared with international roaming, eSIM service offers a more flexible and economical option. Below are some of the significant advantages of using eSIM service:

Affordable

With eSIM, travelers can choose a local network operator and package upon arrival at their destination, often at more competitive prices. This means you can get higher traffic at a lower cost and avoid extra expenses due to roaming.

Convenient purchase and activation

Many eSIM service providers allow subscribers to purchase and activate their eSIM online, simply scanning a QR code and setting it up in minutes. This convenience saves travelers time and effort by eliminating the need to search for a local SIM card when arriving in a new country.

Seamless Switching

Seamless network switching is possible with eSIM, especially for those traveling in multiple countries. You can choose the right carrier at any time according to your needs without having to change physical SIM cards, avoiding unnecessary hassles.

Privacy Protection

Many eSIM service providers do not require real-name registration during the purchase process, which protects users' privacy to a certain extent. This is certainly an important consideration for travelers who are concerned about data security.

3. Suitable for all types of travelers

Whether you are a business traveler, a social media enthusiast, or a family traveler, the eSIM can meet your needs. Its flexibility and customizability allows every traveler to find the right network solution to stay connected and share moments on the go.

Check out further compatibility issues at “2025 esim Compatibility List”

Who are the right travelers for eSIM?

Choosing the right SIM card or eSIM is essential to ensure a good network connection when traveling globally. Different types of travelers have different network needs, so it's especially important to know which type of SIM is right for you. Here are a few types of SIM card options for different travelers:

1. business travelers who travel abroad frequently

Requirements:

• Stable Internet connection: business travelers usually need to conduct video conferences, communicate in real time and check emails.
• Flexibility: Need to quickly switch networks in different countries and regions.

Recommended:

• eSIM service: eSIM providers like PhoneSIMGo enable business travelers to quickly activate their network when they arrive at their destination, avoiding the hassle of searching for a local SIM card. In addition, eSIMs often work with multiple carriers to ensure good coverage in different areas.

2. social media enthusiasts

Demand:

• High Traffic Demand: social media users need to upload photos and videos frequently, using platforms such as Instagram and TikTok.
• Fast upload speeds: the faster the traffic speed, the more fun the sharing experience will be.

Recommended:

• Unlimited Data Packages: choose a carrier such as T-Mobile with unlimited data packages perfect for travelers who like to share content in real time. This allows for hassle-free uploading and sharing of travel experiences while on the go.

3. Family travelers

Requirements:

• Multi-device connectivity: family travelers usually have multiple devices to connect, such as phones, tablets and laptops.
• Security and privacy protection: Parents will be more concerned about privacy and security when choosing an online service.

recommends:

• Shared Data Packages: some carriers offer family sharing packages that allow multiple devices to share the same data traffic. This option ensures that each family member stays connected without the need to purchase multiple SIM cards separately.

4. Backpackers and budget travelers

Requirements:

• Cost-effective: budget travelers will look for cost-effective network services.
• Simple usage process: need easy purchase and activation process.

Recommendations:

• Prepaid SIM cards: purchasing prepaid SIM cards at local supermarkets or convenience stores is a common option for backpackers. These SIM cards are usually reasonably priced for short-term use and have easy activation steps.

5. digital nomads

Requirements:

• Continuously online: digital nomads need a stable internet connection to work remotely.
• Flexible package options: they may need to stay in different countries for longer periods of time.

recommends:

• Long-term eSIM packages: choosing a long-term eSIM package such as PhoneSIMGo can be used in multiple countries and territories, ensuring that they can work and communicate wherever they are.

Frequently asked questions about eSIM in the US:

1. What service providers support eSIM in the US?
   • Yes, major carriers in the U.S., such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile,PhoneSIMGo, support eSIM, which travelers can easily purchase and use.
2. How to buy an eSIM in the U.S.A.?
   • You can purchase an eSIM through your carrier's official website, mobile apps, or local retail stores. Real names are usually not required and the purchase process is quick and easy.
3. Is the eSIM activation process complicated? No, it's not.
   • Not complicated! After purchase, you will receive an activation QR code. Simply scan the QR code in your phone settings to activate it, and the whole process usually takes only a few minutes.
4. What is the approximate price of the eSIM package?.
   • Package prices vary by carrier and data traffic, usually between $20 and$80, so we recommend choosing the right package for your needs.
5. How to ensure network coverage in the US?
   • Before choosing a package, you can check the carrier's network coverage map to make sure that the city and area you are traveling to has a good signal.
6. Will I incur extra charges for using eSIM?
   • Using eSIM itself will not incur extra charges, but data usage beyond the package may incur extra charges, so be careful to control your data traffic.
7. What should I do if I need technical support in the US?
   • Most carriers offer 24-hour online customer support, which can be contacted through their app or website to resolve any issues.
8. Can eSIM be used in other countries?
   • Some eSIM packages may support international roaming, but this depends on the package you choose, and it is recommended to check the applicability of the package before purchase.
9. How do I manage my data traffic?
   • You can check your data usage in your phone settings, and some carriers' apps also offer real-time data monitoring to help you control your traffic.
10. What should I do if my device does not support eSIM?
    • If your device doesn't support eSIM, consider purchasing a traditional SIM card, which is sold by U.S. carriers at airports and stores and is just as easy to use.

Summary

Overall, the eSIM service provided by PhoneSIMGo has given me great convenience and flexibility while traveling in the US. Whether it was taking care of work matters or keeping in touch with friends, eSIM enabled me to do so with ease. For travelers planning to visit the US, choosing an eSIM is certainly a wise decision that can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. I hope my sharing will provide you with valuable references for your future travels!