Internet on a road trip in the American West: the best options for staying connected
A road trip in the American West promises unforgettable adventures between red deserts, mythical national parks and endless roads. But to organize your itinerary, book hotels or simply share your best photos live, a reliable Internet connection is essential.
So how do you stay connected in the wide open spaces of the USA? Should you buy a local SIM card, rent a WiFi box, activate roaming or choose an eSIM? What are the network-free zones? And what are the pitfalls to avoid with public WiFi?
Here’s a complete guide to choosing the best Internet solution for your road trip in the American West, with practical advice and the right packages from SIM USA.
Why have Internet on a road trip in the American West?
The Internet may seem secondary when you’re setting off on an adventure, but on American roads it quickly becomes essential.
- Getting your bearings: distances are long, and some parks like Death Valley have no signs at all. Google Maps or Waze are becoming indispensable.
- To book: hotels, activities, park entrance tickets, or simply a table to eat at night.
- Staying in touch: calls to France, messages to loved ones or important e-mails.
- To anticipate changing weather conditions, road closures, forest fires, shuttle schedules… the Internet allows you to react in good time.
- For entertainment: Spotify, Netflix, YouTube, social networking sites… road trips can also be experienced through music and images.
Are there any grid-free zones in the American West?
Yes, even with a good package and an excellent operator, you’ll find white zones in the American West.
Above all :
- Death Valley
- Some parts of Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Zion
- Desert areas in Nevada or Utah
Tip: Tell your friends and family before you enter a park, and download your maps, reservations and playlists in advance.
What are the best options for getting Internet access on a road trip in the American West?
eSIM: the fast, cardless solution
This is the simplest solution if your phone is compatible. In just a few clicks, you download an eSIM from SIM USA before you even land. Once there, your plan is activated, and you’re connected.
Advantages :
- No need to change your SIM card.
- Immediate activation.
- Ideal for short and medium trips (7 to 30 days).
- Competitive rates: from just a few dozen euros, depending on duration.
Disadvantages :
- Requires an eSIM-compatible phone.
- Calls and SMS are not always included, depending on the package, but WhatsApp works perfectly.
Here’s the lowdown: SIM USA offers from eSIM packages plans for travelers, with generous data volumes and excellent coverage in the western states.
Prepaid SIM cards: a flexible solution
If you prefer to insert a physical SIM card, the prepaid SIM remains a safe bet. You receive your card before departure, insert it into an unlocked phone, and enjoy a real American package.
Advantages :
- U.S. number included.
- Calls, SMS and data (depending on package chosen).
- Works with all unlocked phones.
- Total control over your budget: you pay for a defined number of days or data.
Example with SIM USA :
SIM cards valid from 7 to 30 days, 4G/5G coverage in most parks, unlimited calls to the USA and sometimes to France, from 39 euros.
The portable WiFi box: for a shared connection
It’s a practical solution if you’re traveling with several people (couples, friends or family). The box connects to the local mobile network, creating a WiFi network to which you can link all your devices.
Advantages :
- One SIM card for multiple devices.
- No need to change your phone’s card.
- Ideal for computers, tablets or connected children.
Disadvantages :
- Cost of purchase or rental.
- Limited range (remember to recharge in the car).
- Coverage identical to that of a conventional SIM card.
You can use a prepaid USA SIM or eSIM in compatible hotspot compatible hotspot box to enjoy a reliable WiFi connection everywhere.
Roaming with a French operator: avoid without option
Some offers, like Free, include a small amount of data in the USA. But for others, activating roaming data can be very expensive.
Advantages :
- Simplicity: you keep your French number.
- No handling required.
Disadvantages :
- High rates without a dedicated option.
- Limited and often restricted data.
- Not always a network outside the cities.
Tip: Check your contract before you leave. And to avoid any nasty surprises, deactivate mobile data on arrival if you don’t have an option.
And what about free WiFi?
Where to find free WiFi in the USA?
In town, you’ll find WiFi almost everywhere: hotels, fast-food outlets, supermarkets, libraries. But once you’re out in nature, in parks like Yosemite or Bryce Canyon, it’s a different story.
Good to know:
- Public WiFi can be slow or unstable.
- It is sometimes reserved for customers.
- In some motels, it’s only available at reception.
Tip: Prepare your maps by downloading them from Google Maps in advance, and store PDF versions of your tickets on your phone.
The risks of public WiFi
Beware of unpleasant surprises! Connecting to an unsecured network can put your data at risk.
The main risks :
- Hacking of your login and password.
- Retrieve your bank details.
- Spying on your activities.
How to protect yourself :
- Use a VPN if possible.
- Avoid banking connections over public WiFi.
- Surf in private mode and never save your passwords.
Using your phone as an access point: practical but limited
If you have a data-intensive package (such as SIM USA or Free USA), you can activate connection sharing to connect your computer or tablet.
How convenient:
- By car or at the hotel.
- To work or watch Netflix.
But be careful:
- This drains the battery very quickly.
Videos and updates consume a lot of data.
Staying connected in the American West depends on your needs and your budget. For a 7- to 30-day trip, the simplest solution is :
- eSIM if your phone is compatible.
- The prepaid SIM card if you want more flexibility.
- The WiFi box if more than one person is connected.
Plan your road trip with peace of mind, order your SIM in advance… and enjoy your trip to the American West!
