Your parents’ visit to the USA is cause for celebration!
More seniors are choosing to invest in memorable experiences abroad, and with its stunning landscapes, cultural diversity, and beautiful beaches, America is a favorite destination for all ages.
In this article…
Importance of Staying Connected
Travelling abroad, especially for seniors, brings the need to stay connected with loved ones and emergency contacts. The United States is no exception.
But, don’t worry – there’s no need to activate expensive roaming services.
A locally purchased SIM card will allow your parents to make calls and send texts at a reasonable cost, without the worry of hefty roaming charges.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in the USA?
Finding a place to buy a SIM card in the USA is easier than you might think.
They’re available in grocery stores, supermarkets, kiosks, official retail stores, drug stores, and even at international airports. Purchasing a SIM card requires only a passport and an active SIM card from your home country.
You can find no-contract, prepaid SIM cards that don’t require any additional documentation.
To top up your SIM card, you can easily purchase vouchers at supermarkets and grocery stores.
Advantages of Using a Local SIM Card
When your parents visit the USA, a local SIM card is the best choice. It reduces communication costs and ensures reliable network services.
The four major US operators – Sprint, Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T – provide robust coverage that’s been tried and tested by locals and tourists alike.
The best part?
You don’t need an in-store contract to use these networks.
So, your parents can freely share pictures, enjoy video calls, and stay in touch with family back home.
Network Quality
Local networks are affordable and reliable, with T-Mobile and AT&T offering good coverage in most US cities.
However, coverage can sometimes drop in rural and remote areas. When choosing a SIM card, consider where your parents will be visiting. 4G SIM cards are typically a great option, providing clear voice calls and reliable text delivery both indoors and outdoors.
Data Usage
Data usage can be a significant concern when travelling. The average smartphone consumes between 10MB and 20MB of data per day without user interaction.
This can add up quickly when using roaming services. To avoid surprises, estimate your data needs and purchase a suitable plan in advance.
This way, whether your parents are exploring the Empire State Building or relaxing on Miami’s beaches, they’ll have no trouble staying connected.
Key Takeaways
- Avoid expensive roaming charges by purchasing a local SIM card in the USA.
- SIM cards are widely available and require only a passport and an active SIM card to purchase.
- Major US operators offer robust coverage and do not require an in-store contract.
- Consider where your parents will be visiting when choosing a network provider.
- Estimate data usage to choose an appropriate plan and avoid unexpected costs.
Now, you’re all set to welcome your parents to America and ensure they can share their exciting journey in real time with friends and family.
