In United States: get an eSIM before you go.
Want the full guide? Get a PDF with tips for staying connected in United States smoothly — free.
An eSIM is the better choice for United States. eSIM coverage from providers like Airalo, Google Fi, and major carriers is excellent nationwide, and no ID registration is required to activate a US SIM or eSIM.
No — United States doesn't require passport/ID registration to get connected.
Buy your eSIM online before you fly (Airalo and similar marketplaces cover United States) and install the profile while you still have WiFi — it activates the moment you land.
Only if you're fine paying your home carrier's international roaming rates — check your plan first, since those can add up fast compared to a local SIM or eSIM.
Airport SIM booths and roaming plans are the expensive way to get online. A Saily eSIM (by the team behind NordVPN) installs on your phone before you fly, activates automatically when you land in United States, and gives you prepaid data at local prices in 190+ countries — no physical SIM, no contract, no surprise bill.
See Saily data plans for United States →Disclosure: if you buy through this link, TravelSmarter may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It keeps our tools free.