Travel eSIM in the United States: connected from touchdown

In the United States, you are outside the European Union: EU "roam like at home" rules don’t apply, and using your usual plan can be expensive. A travel eSIM is set up at home before you leave and works as soon as you land.

Your three options

A travel eSIM
A virtual SIM bought online: you install it over Wi-Fi before leaving and switch it on when you land. Convenient, no shop to find. Check that the plan covers the country and the length of your stay.
Your own provider’s plan
Some providers offer add-ons for this country: compare their terms before leaving. Without one, roaming outside the European Union can be very expensive.
A local SIM card
Sold at the airport or in shops, often with ID required. Good for a long stay, but you have to swap cards, and therefore numbers, during your trip.

Choose your eSIM

Prices vary with the destination and length of stay: compare the offers before booking. We earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.

From the moment you arrive in the United States

With data from touchdown, you can follow your route, call a ride or show your booking. What awaits you on arrival in our cities:

  • New York : From JFK airport, the AirTrain and the LIRR train reach Penn Station in about 50 minutes; the AirTrain and subway are cheaper but slower. Newark airport (New Jersey) is linked to Manhattan by train.
  • Los Angeles : Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is south-west of the city. Reach your area by taxi, ride-hailing, shuttle or public transport (with a connection); allow extra time because of traffic.
  • San Francisco : From San Francisco International Airport (SFO), the BART regional rail reaches downtown in about 30 minutes.

Setting up an eSIM, step by step

  1. Check that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked (phone settings or the manufacturer’s website).
  2. Buy the eSIM and install it at home, over Wi-Fi, a few days before leaving (a QR code or an in-app installation).
  3. On arrival, switch mobile data and data roaming on for the eSIM line.
  4. Keep your usual SIM active for calls and texts (bank codes), but turn off its mobile data.

Practical tips

Frequently asked questions

Do I need an eSIM in the United States?

It isn’t compulsory, but it’s often the simplest option: outside the European Union, roaming on your usual plan can be expensive. Compare with your provider’s add-ons.

When should I install the eSIM?

At home, over Wi-Fi, a few days before leaving. You then switch it on when you land, simply by changing the line used for data.

Can I keep my number?

Yes: the eSIM is added alongside your usual SIM, which stays active for calls and texts. Just turn off its mobile data to avoid charges.