Top eSIMs Plans and Providers for USA: 2024 Guide

Last update: November 13th, 2024

If you're one of the 66.5 million people visiting the U.S. (2023 number) and need an international or travel eSIM, you're in the right place.

Mobile data in the U.S. is notoriously expensive, especially compared to other countries. Typically, getting a cheap plan requires a lot of research, ordering a SIM card in advance, and hoping it works when you arrive. Pretty outdated, right?

Thankfully, eSIMs make this easier. With an eSIM-compatible device, you can access various eSIM options from global providers and connect instantly while in the U.S.

In this guide we will explore the top eSIM providers and plans that offer great value, great network help you avoid roaming fees, and are easy to use. But before choosing, here’s what you should consider when buying a travel plan for the U.S.

Best eSIM providers and plans for the USA in 2024

Jetpac : The Best Provider for the USA

If you’re looking for an all-around eSIM solution that combines great speed, global coverage, and added perks, Jetpac stands out as a top pick for U.S. travelers.

Jetpac covers over 100 countries, offering reliable connectivity and strong 5G speeds on leading U.S. networks, making it ideal for both short trips and extended stays. Plus, it’s packed with extras: travelers can enjoy a free VPN trial to keep their browsing secure, and for those facing delayed flights, Jetpac even provides airport lounge access for a more comfortable wait.

Our speed tests abroad and in the U.S. demonstrated that Jetpac provides good connectivity. We had 5G and Download speeds averaged at 34.74 MB/s, while upload speeds reached 17.93 MB/s. Latency was also within a reasonable range, with a download latency of 430 ms and upload latency of 447 ms.

While Jetpac uses international routing through locations like the Netherlands and Singapore, the U.S. performance remained strong, with minimal lag. In the U.S., Jetpac partners with T-Mobile, offering reliable 5G network access for a seamless experience across major locations.

In the USA, Jetpac has network sharing agreements with T-mobile (which is the local neetwork you will be roaming with.

The best plans by Jetpac for the US

Jetpac's plans for the USA are relatively cheap and come with different prices. Below are a few of those plans. For "normal" data users, we'd recommend you get at least 20GB for a 10 days stay.

Data

25 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Network(s) : T-Mobile USA ()

Jetpac - USA 25GB

$25.00

$1.00/GB

Learn more ›

Data

15 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Network(s) : T-Mobile USA ()

Jetpac - USA 15GB

$17.00

$1.13/GB

Learn more ›

Data

10 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Network(s) : T-Mobile USA ()

Jetpac - USA 10GB

$13.00

$1.30/GB

Learn more ›

Airalo : The contender for the US

If you want a good amount of data at a reasonable price with an easy-to-use experience, Airalo is a great option. Based in Singapore, Airalo offers eSIM plans for many destinations, and setting it up is quick and simple.

They also provide strong coverage in the U.S. through partnerships with major networks like T-Mobile and AT&T, now offering 5G compatibility. Recently, they added plans that include voice, text, and SMS services in the U.S., making it even more convenient. While not the cheapest option, Airalo offers a solid balance of cost, features, and ease of use, especially for regular users.

Read our full Airalo review.

The best Airalo plans for the USA

We love Airalo's "Change" plans for the US, which come in three different flavors: 10GB, 5GB, and 3GB and cost $26.00, $16.00, and $11.00 respectively. This is quite cheap for the US.

Data

10 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Network(s) : T-Mobile (5G), Verizon (5G)

Special Offer: 15% OFF

Airalo - Change - 10 GB

$22.10

$26.00

$2.21/GB

Learn more ›

Data

5 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Network(s) : T-Mobile (5G), Verizon (5G)

Special Offer: 15% OFF

Airalo - Change - 5 GB

$13.60

$16.00

$2.72/GB

Learn more ›

Data

3 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Network(s) : T-Mobile (5G), Verizon (5G)

Special Offer: 15% OFF

Airalo - Change - 3 GB

$9.35

$11.00

$3.12/GB

Learn more ›

Nomad : the best option for USA + Canada + Mexico

We are great fans of Nomad, an eSIM MVNO from Singapore.

Their plans are great and reliable, while remaining affordable. If you're not only visiting the United States but also Mexico and / or Canada, their "Regional North America - 30 Days - 20 GB" plan offers great value.

The plan is compatible with multiple local operators in each country, in 4G & 5G.

Data

20 GB

Validity30 day(s)

3 countries

Data only

Special Offer: $1 OFF

Nomad - Regional North America - 30 Days - 20 GB

$52.00

$53.00

$2.60/GB

Learn more ›

Unlike Yesim, this plan is data only and does not come with a phone number.

Instabridge : perfect for short stays (less than 3 days)

In case you don't need as much data as the plans recommended above and stay short term, Instabridge's 3GB data only plan is a great recommendation.

It is the most competitive 3GB plan for the US we could find. It is valid for 15 days, but we think it is very unlikely you can make it like that long if you consume mobile data like an average smartphone owner

Data

3 GB

Validity15 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

Special Offer: 20% OFF

Instabridge - 3 GB United States

$3.60

$4.50

$1.20/GB

Learn more ›

BNESIM: Perfect for a 30-Day Stay

For those needing reliable data for a shorter stay, BNESIM offers a 30-day, 20GB eSIM package that’s perfect for travelers spending a month in the U.S.

This Italian provider partners with AT&T and T-Mobile to provide solid 4G speeds, making it ideal for regular browsing, navigation, and social media use.

Keepgo: Ideal for Longer U.S. Stays or Frequent Visits

If you plan to stay in the U.S. for an extended period or make frequent trips, Keepgo offers a convenient long-term eSIM plan tailored for ongoing connectivity.

Keepgo, the Israel-based telecom provider, has a 25GB eSIM plan that remains valid for a full 365 days. Priced at $90.00, this option is a bit higher in cost but provides excellent value over the long term, especially as the data remains active indefinitely if topped up at least once a year with any amount.

Keepgo ensures reliable coverage by partnering with major U.S. networks AT&T and T-Mobile, giving users consistent access to quality service across the country.

Data

25 GB

Validity365 day(s)

🇺🇸 United States

Data only

KeepGo - Solaris

$116.00

$4.64/GB

Learn more ›

Benefits of eSIM

If you're not yet familiar with eSIM, here are a few of the benefits of getting an international or travel eSIM rather than a travel SIM card :

• Instant Connectivity: No need to hunt down a SIM card when (or before) you land—just buy, download and activate your eSIM and you’re online.

• No SIM Swapping Needed: If you’re hopping from one country to another, eSIMs save you the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards.

• Carrier Switching & Network coverage : Quickly switch between carriers or data plans to find the best rates or coverage without changing physical SIMs. When eSIM providers have several network-sharing agreements with U.S. carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon, this gives you the ability to maximize you coverage.

• No More Roaming Fees: Say goodbye to those expensive roaming charges. Choose a local or MVNO plan and keep your costs low.

• 5G-Ready: Many eSIMs offer 5G coverage on major networks, giving you fast speeds for streaming, browsing, and more.

• Flexible Data Options: Pay-as-you-go, unlimited, or regional plans—eSIM providers let you pick what fits your stay best.

• Features like Data Tethering: Need to connect more than one device? Many eSIM plans allow tethering, so you can share your data easily.

Factors to consider before buying

There are many eSIM plan options already available if you are travelling to the USA. On esims.io, as of today, we list more than 300 plans from dozen of providers... Just in the US !

Most of those plans are great and will do just fine for most internet browsing needs, but there are some important features related to the eSIM plan you purchase and to the provider you go with that you should be aware of before your purchase an eSIM plan.

Buying from a local network operator or from a MVNO

First off, you've got two main types of plans: the ones created by MVNOs like Holafly, Airalo, and Nomad, and then your local providers like AT&T and Verizon.

If you're a globetrotter hopping from the U.S. to Canada to Mexico, MVNOs are your best friend. They offer multi-country plans that give you the freedom to roam.

But if you're staying put in the U.S., you might want to stick with AT&T or Verizon eSIM plans for more consistent speeds and better coverage.

Network quality and coverage

Local Network(s) Compatibility and coverage

Now, if you do go the MVNO route, you've got to play detective.

It's crucial to investigate which local networks the MVNO you're purchasing from has network sharing agreements to understand whether you will be able to roam on Verizon, AT&T, or T-mobile, or a combination of those networks.

In the US, mobile network operators offer coverages and quality of network that vary depending on when you are, especially in rural areas, so you should be doing your own coverage research one you know about the network sharing agreement.

In the U.S, the eSIM provider Nomad for instance offers roaming with both AT&T & Verizon networks.

Network Prioritization

In the U.S., the big networks like AT&T and Verizon have this VIP list, and guess what? MVNO users aren't on it - somtimes. So, during busy times, you might find your data speeds throttled. Just something to keep in mind.

Internet Routing and Latency

This one's a bit geeky but super important. Some MVNOs route your internet traffic through servers that are miles away from your actual location. Imagine sending your data on a round-trip flight to Europe before it gets to your phone in the U.S. Yeah, that's gonna cause some lag. Some MVNOs are smart about this and have servers all over the world to minimize this issue.

5G or 4G / LTE only

Most eSIM plans are still on the 4G train, but if you're all about that speed, look for plans that offer 5G. It's not everywhere yet, but it's growing.

Check for limitations

Phone Number, Text, SMS : Native support VS VOIP solutions

A lot of eSIM plans are data-only, which is cool if you're just gonna WhatsApp or FaceTime people. But if you need an actual phone number, dig a little deeper. Some plans offer it directly, while others might require you to use a VOIP app. Heads up, though—some services like Uber are picky and won't take VOIP numbers.

Hotspot & Tethering

If you're the type who likes to share your connection with other devices, check if the eSIM plan allows for hotspoting. Some do, some don't. Don't assume; always check.

Unlimited Plans and Fair Usage Policy: The "Unlimited" Mirage

Lastly, don't get seduced by the word "unlimited." Read the fine print. Most of these so-called unlimited plans have a Fair Usage Policy that'll cap your data after you hit a certain point.

Read the fine lines: Holafly's unlimited plans are not truly unlimited and limit your speeds after a certain usage has been reached.

Hassle-Free setup Experience

When choosing an eSIM for the U.S., make sure it’s as user-friendly as possible—setup shouldn’t be complicated, especially for travelers on the go. Look for providers that offer clear activation guides and installation instructions, such as Airalo, Nomad, or Yesim, to get you connected quickly.

Many providers also include 24/7 customer support to help with manual installations or troubleshooting, which can be a lifesaver if you run into issues.

Conclusion

The United States is not the country where you will get the cheapest prepaid data plans, and you have to be careful about what your eSIM might hide before you purchase it.

That said, some eSIM providers are able to offer eSIM plans that offer decent value and won't break your bank. We love Airalo and Yesim plans the most.

If you are not satisfied and need to compare more eSIM plans, you will find more eSIM plans options for the USA on esims.io.

USA

MOGO eSIM

$20.90

USA&Canada 2

MOGO eSIM

$20.90

USA-5G support

MOGO eSIM

$24.90

USA 50GB

Jetpac

$25.00

United States

Redteago

$5.90

United States: Browse more prepaid eSIM plans

🇺🇸 United States: Browse more prepaid eSIM plans

You can also contact us at hello@esims.io if you need advice!