This article was last updated and fact checked on April 28, 2025 by Mani Karthik.
The first time I landed in the US, I made a classic Indian traveler’s mistake – I thought my Indian SIM would work just fine with international roaming.
The shock came when I checked my phone bill after a week: ₹24,000 for just basic usage! That expensive lesson taught me the importance of getting a proper US travel SIM card.
Whether you’re visiting family, traveling for business, or exploring as a tourist, staying connected in the US without breaking the bank is essential.
After numerous trips and helping dozens of friends and family members stay connected affordably, I’ve learned exactly which SIM options work best for Indians visiting America.
This guide shares everything you need to know to stay connected without the surprise bills I faced!
In this article...
Quick Overview: Best SIM Options for Indians in the USA
The best SIM card options for Indians traveling to the USA include T-Mobile Tourist Plan, AT&T Prepaid, prepaid options from H2O Wireless or Ultra Mobile, or international travel eSIMs like Airalo and Holafly.
For short trips (1-3 weeks), prepaid carrier plans offering unlimited calls, texts, and 5-15GB data range from $30-50.
For longer stays, monthly carrier plans with auto-renewal offer better value.
💡 Pro Tip: Purchase your US SIM card AFTER arriving in America. Many Indian travel agencies sell “USA SIM cards” at premium prices that often have hidden limitations. Buying directly from US carriers or authorized retailers guarantees better pricing and proper activation.
When traveling to USA, travel insurance is much recommended.
Two great plans are, Atlas America and Safe Travels USA.
However there are other choices like these, as well.
Top US SIM Card Options for Indian Travelers
1. T-Mobile Tourist Plan
Best for: Short-term visitors (3 weeks or less)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $40 (approximately ₹3,300) |
| Validity | 21 days |
| Data | 15GB high-speed data |
| Calls within US | Unlimited |
| Calls to India | Not included (use WhatsApp/FaceTime) |
| Where to Buy | T-Mobile stores, airport kiosks, some Walmart stores |
Why it’s great: T-Mobile offers excellent coverage in most major US cities and tourist areas. Their Tourist Plan is specifically designed for international visitors and doesn’t require a US address or credit check.
2. AT&T Prepaid
Best for: Medium to longer stays (1-2 months)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $30-65 (₹2,500-5,400) depending on plan |
| Validity | 30 days with option to extend |
| Data | 5GB-Unlimited depending on plan |
| Calls within US | Unlimited |
| Calls to India | Extra cost or use apps |
| Where to Buy | AT&T stores, authorized retailers, some convenience stores |
Why it’s great: AT&T has extensive coverage even in rural areas. Their prepaid plans are flexible and can be extended if your stay is longer than expected.
3. Ultra Mobile Tourist Plan
Best for: Travelers who need to call India
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $30 (approximately ₹2,500) |
| Validity | 30 days |
| Data | 5GB high-speed data |
| Calls within US | Unlimited |
| Calls to India | Includes some international calling minutes |
| Where to Buy | Ultra Mobile retailers, T-Mobile stores, some convenience stores |
Why it’s great: Ultra Mobile runs on T-Mobile’s network but offers the added benefit of some international calling minutes to India, which is rare among prepaid options.
4. H2O Wireless
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $20-60 (₹1,650-5,000) |
| Validity | 30 days |
| Data | 2GB-Unlimited based on plan |
| Calls within US | Unlimited |
| Calls to India | Some plans include limited minutes |
| Where to Buy | Online, select convenience stores, some Indian grocery stores |
Why it’s great: H2O offers some of the most economical options and runs on AT&T’s network, providing reliable coverage. Their $30 plan includes some international calling minutes to India.
5. eSIM Options (Airalo, Holafly, US Mobile)
Best for: Modern phone users who want convenience
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $15-50 (₹1,250-4,150) depending on data needs |
| Validity | 7-30 days depending on plan |
| Data | 1GB-Unlimited based on plan |
| Calls within US | Usually not included (use data apps) |
| Calls to India | Not included (use apps) |
| Where to Buy | Download the provider’s app and purchase online before travel |
Why it’s great: eSIMs can be installed before you leave India, allowing you to be connected the moment you land. No physical SIM card needed if your phone supports eSIM technology.
How to Choose the Right SIM Card for Your Trip
Consider these factors when selecting your US SIM card:
1. Trip Duration
- 1-3 weeks: T-Mobile Tourist Plan or an eSIM option
- 1-2 months: AT&T or Ultra Mobile monthly prepaid
- 3+ months: Consider H2O multi-month plans for better value
2. Usage Needs
- Heavy data user: Select plans with 10GB+ data
- Mostly calls to India: Ultra Mobile or H2O with international minutes
- Basic connectivity: Any prepaid option with 2-5GB data
3. Travel Destinations
- Major cities only: Any carrier works well
- Rural/National Parks: AT&T or Verizon-based networks have better coverage
- Multiple states: T-Mobile or AT&T for consistent nationwide coverage
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using international roaming on your Indian SIM – Costs can quickly add up to thousands of rupees
- Buying a SIM card in India before travel – Often overpriced with limited data
- Not checking phone compatibility – Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports US bands
- Forgetting to activate the SIM – Some SIMs require registration through an app or website
- Not bringing proper ID – Most carriers require your passport for activation
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a SIM Card in the USA
Before Leaving India:
- Unlock your phone – Contact your Indian provider to ensure your phone is carrier-unlocked
- Check compatibility – Verify your phone supports US network bands (most modern phones do)
- Save important contacts – Back up your contacts to Google or Apple account
- Download essential apps – WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, etc.
- Activate international roaming temporarily – Just for airport arrival communications
Upon Arrival in the USA:
- Find a carrier store – Available at most airports or nearby shopping areas
- Bring required documents – Your passport is essential
- Choose your plan – Based on your needs from the options above
- Complete the activation – Staff will help set up the SIM
- Test immediately – Make a test call and check data before leaving the store
💡 Pro Tip: Many Indian travelers need to use their OTP-registered Indian number for banking services. Keep your Indian SIM in a secondary phone or temporarily swap back to your Indian SIM when needed for important OTPs or verification messages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Indian phone in the USA?
Yes, if your phone is unlocked and supports the 4G/5G bands used in the US. Most smartphones sold in India after 2018 are compatible with US networks.
Will my WhatsApp number change if I use a US SIM?
No, your WhatsApp account stays linked to your Indian number even when using a US SIM. Just don’t verify WhatsApp on your new US number unless you want to transfer your account.
Can I buy a SIM card at the US airport?
Yes, most major US airports have carrier kiosks or vending machines selling SIM cards. However, they may charge $5-10 more than stores outside the airport.
How do I make affordable calls to India?
The most economical way is using WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Google Meet over data. If you need to make regular calls to Indian landlines, consider Ultra Mobile or H2O plans with included international minutes.
Which US cities have the best mobile coverage?
Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington DC have excellent coverage with all carriers. Rural areas and national parks may have limited service with some carriers.
Best Options for Different Traveler Types
For Family Visitors
If you’re visiting family in the US, consider:
- Ultra Mobile’s $30 plan
- Getting added to your family’s US family plan temporarily
- Using Wi-Fi calling when at your family’s home
For Business Travelers
Business travelers should prioritize reliability:
- AT&T Prepaid for best coverage
- Verizon Prepaid if visiting rural areas
- eSIM for immediate connectivity upon landing
For Tourists
Tourists exploring multiple cities should consider:
- T-Mobile Tourist Plan
- Airalo eSIM for hassle-free activation
- H2O if staying longer than 3 weeks
Summary
- Avoid using your Indian SIM with international roaming in the US
- For trips under 3 weeks, T-Mobile Tourist Plan offers great value
- For longer stays, AT&T or Ultra Mobile monthly plans work well
- eSIM options provide convenience if your phone supports them
- Always buy your SIM after arriving in the US for better pricing
- Use apps like WhatsApp for calling India rather than direct calls
- Ensure your phone is unlocked before traveling
Staying connected in the US doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right SIM card choice based on your specific travel needs, you can enjoy reliable communication at reasonable prices.
A little preparation before your trip can save you from the shocking bill I received on my first US visit.
Wishing you smooth connectivity and wonderful travels across America! ✈️
