How to have internet in the USA (in 2026)

If you are planning a trip to the USA, chances are your phone carrier won’t include internet usage abroad in your regular plan. Instead, you might end up paying steep roaming fees for every MB of data.

Having visited the USA a handful of times, I can say just how important it is to stay connected. Whether it is for navigating around the streets, locating all the sights, finding the best restaurants, or keeping friends and family updated on social media, reliable internet makes travelling SO much easier.

That’s why it’s worth exploring the best alternatives for staying online during your trip, without draining your wallet. Saving you extra $s for spending on the things you’ll enjoy most!

In this guide, I will take you through the ways in which I have successfully accessed the internet whilst travelling through the USA. Including eSIMs (my absolute favourite for travelling anywhere), physical SIMs, and WiFi.

1. Use an eSIM

In my opinion, the best method for accessing the internet whilst in the USA is an eSIM. I find it provides the most seamless experience, allowing you to access the internet directly from your phone, utilising local network providers.

Moreover, it will allow you to hotspot your internet with other devices, like your tablet or laptop, which is perfect for remote work or watching your favourite TV shows from your hotel or apartment.

And you get all of this without having to remove your physical SIM card, which is perfect if you still need access to your phone number. For example, if you want to log on to your online banking and need a 2-step verification text, you can still do this.

If an eSIM sounds like the best option for you, I’d recommend trying out Holafly. They offer unlimited data plans with flexible dates (find out more in my Holafly review). You pick how many days you need it for, purchase it, and then install using one of their three easy setup methods. Get started with Holafly’s USA eSIM here

Get started with Holafly here

2. Buy a local SIM card

Before the era of eSIMs, I used to purchase a local SIM card every time I arrived in a new country. I would keep my existing SIM card somewhere safe and use the local SIM card throughout my time in that country.

It does require you to locate a phone shop selling SIM cards. But you will sometimes find them in airports, although these are often a lot more expensive than SIM cards you’ll find in city centres.

One of the times I visited the USA, I bought a SIM card in one of the major supermarkets. It did mean I could access the internet throughout the country on my phone (like an eSIM), but I couldn’t access the internet until I located the shop. Whereas an eSIM kicks in the moment you arrive in the country.

Also, bear in mind that not all SIM card companies are willing to sell SIM cards to tourists. For example, I found it difficult to get a SIM card in Taiwan. That being said, there are plenty of prepaid tourist SIM options in the USA.

3. Use WiFi networks

As a full-time traveller and remote worker, I’ve tried many different ways to stay connected. Before I started using mobile data, I often relied on WiFi networks. They work well if you don’t need constant internet access on the go and mainly connect when you’re working.

You can turn up to a local coffee shop or library, get yourself a coffee and a seat, and utilise the public WiFi networks. But do make sure to use a VPN to keep your private data secure, since public WiFi networks aren’t always secure.

You can also buy or rent a portable WiFi box, which you can connect multiple devices to on the go. However, the rental or upfront cost of one of these can be a little on the pricey side, and an eSIM is much cheaper.

Why I use Holafly eSIM in the USA

When travelling in the USA, I like to use an eSIM. In particular, I enjoy using the Holafly unlimited data eSIM. With its easy setup, unlimited data plans, daily hotspot allowance, and flexible duration, it is a great pick for the USA – no matter whether you are visiting just one destination or travelling across states.

Here is an overview of why I recommend Holafly for the USA:

• Unlimited data plans
• Access to 4G and 5G networks in the USA
• 1GB of hotspot data every day
• The duration is flexible – you choose how many days you need it for, so you don’t pay for what you don’t need
• The setup is really easy, with three different methods to use

Buy your Holafly eSIM here

eSIM FAQs

If, like me, you think an eSIM is the best option for your travels in the USA, check out these handy FAQs.

How do I install the Holafly eSIM?

There are three ways in which you can install the Holafly eSIM. If you are using their mobile app, you can download it directly from there and follow the on-screen instructions. If you are on another device, you can open up the provided QR code, which will have been emailed or WhatsApped to you, and scan this with the mobile phone that you want to install the eSIM on.

Alternatively, you can manually install the eSIM using the provided codes after purchasing.

Where can I buy an eSIM?

You can buy an eSIM either on the internet on your laptop, desktop and tablet, or directly from a mobile app on your phone. Holafly make it easy to purchase through either, with seamless setup options for when you want to install your purchased data plan on your mobile (see FAQ above).

Can I use an eSIM on any phone?

Most people will find eSIMs to be the most useful option for their travels in the USA. However, you will need to first check if your phone is eSIM compatible. Most modern smartphones are, but you can use this handy guide from Holafly to find out if your model is suitable.

How much data should I buy?

When travelling, it is really difficult to predict just how much data you are going to need. You may need to do a lot of research whilst on the go, using Google Maps to navigate your way around, and communicating with friends and family.

This is why I like to pick an unlimited eSIM plan, like Holafly. It gives you peace of mind that you will always have enough data. Speeds do get throttled after a certain amount of usage each day (which is typical of unlimited data plans), but you will still be able to use your data for everything necessary on your travels.