Internet in the United States: roaming, eSIM, local SIM and VPN explained
The US is vast, and which network your plan runs on often matters more than exactly where you're headed. Here's what you need to know about internet during a trip across the United States.
Roaming with your own plan
Roaming with a European plan is usually expensive for the US, unless your provider specifically offers a US plan. Check this in advance, costs can add up quickly.
Local SIM or eSIM?
You can buy a local SIM, but it often requires a visit to a carrier store and sometimes a US address for registration. An eSIM is sorted before you even leave.
Costs
Budget around €20 to €40 for a generous two-week data plan, road trips with heavy navigation use relatively more data.
Do you need a VPN?
The US has no internet censorship, a VPN isn't necessary but is handy for accessing your own streaming services or extra security on hotel wifi.
Practical tips
- AT&T and Verizon generally offer the best rural and national park coverage
- Remote national parks (like Yellowstone or Zion) can have no signal at all, download offline maps in advance
- Road trips use a lot of data for navigation, plan a generous data allowance
Ready for your US road trip?
Check out our eSIM tips and recommended plans for the United States.
See eSIM for the US