Telephone and Internet in the USA: The guide to staying connected
Traveling to the United States is an incredible and unforgettable experience. But staying connected can quickly become a headache.
Between the different options for Internet packages and calls, technical problems, potential overrun costs, GPS navigation, photo sharing or e-mail exchange… it’s essential to anticipate this aspect of your trip as much as possible to ensure a reliable connection and avoid unpleasant surprises in the middle of a road trip in the middle of the USA.
We’ve put together a complete guide to all your connection problems during your stay.
5 problems you may encounter when traveling in the USA and how to solve them
1. Phone incompatibility
The USA mainly uses 4G and 5G standards, but beware: not all smartphones are compatible with their frequency bands. Before you leave, check whether your device is unlocked and compatible with US networks by consulting the specifications on the manufacturer’s website or directly with our tool.
2. High costs
Roaming charges can be exorbitant. There are many ways to avoid them, including choosing a prepaid plan adapted to the USA.
3. Limited coverage
In rural areas, the mobile network can be weak or non-existent. It’s not uncommon to see “no service” displayed in remote areas.
Check the U.S. operator to which your phone is connected. For example, in Page, Arizona, the downtown area is covered by T-Mobile. AT&T doesn’t have its own antennas; its network uses domestic data roaming to operate.
Be careful, too, if you use a virtual operator, which may not have a domestic data roaming option.
The easiest way is to check which operators cover your road trip and choose a suitable package.
4. Insecure public WiFi networks
Cyber attacks are rare, but they can be a problem on unsecured networks.
To prevent hacking, use a VPN to protect your data.
5. Difficulties recharging devices
In the USA, electrical outlets are different. As in England, you’ll need an adapter to recharge your phone or computer.
The easiest way to do this is to equip yourself before you leave. Universal formats are easily found on the Internet or in specialist stores. You can also carry an external battery to make sure you don’t run out of GPS in the middle of a large park.
Cell phone and Internet on the move in North America
French packages: Advantages and disadvantages
Some French operators, such as Free, Orange or SFR, offer international options. These packages often include a limited amount of data (often 25 GB per month), but prices can rise with roaming charges.
| Carrier | Offer | Monthly price | Commitment period | Data included | Unlimited calls and text messages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SFR | 5G 150 GB package | 32,99 € | 12 months | 150 GB (including 100 GB usable in Europe, French overseas departments, Switzerland, Andorra, USA, Canada, China, Turkey) | Yes, to landlines and mobiles in Europe, DOM, USA, Canada, China, Turkey |
| Orange | 150 GB 5G package | 64,99 € | 12 months | 150 GB (including 100 GB in Europe, French overseas departments, Switzerland and Andorra) | Yes, to landlines and mobiles in Europe, French overseas departments, USA and Canada |
| Bouygues | Sensation 90 Go 5G | 41,99 € | 12 months | 90 GB (including 35 GB in Europe, French overseas departments, Switzerland and Andorra) | Yes, to landlines and mobiles in Europe, French overseas departments, USA, Canada, China, Singapore, South Korea |
| Free | Free 5G package | 19,99 € | No obligation | Unlimited data in France (25 GB usable in Europe, DOM, USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, South Africa, Israel, New Zealand) | Yes, to landlines and mobiles in France, USA, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii, China, DOM |
Additional details:
- SFR: The 5G 150 GB plan includes 100 GB of data that can be used abroad in the zones mentioned. Calls and SMSes are unlimited to the specified destinations.
- Orange: The 150 GB 5G package offers 100 GB of data that can be used while roaming. Calls and SMSes are unlimited to certain international destinations.
- Bouygues Telecom: The Sensation 90 Go 5G package offers 35 GB of data for use abroad. Calls and SMSes are unlimited to various international destinations.
- Free Mobile: The Free 5G package offers unlimited data in France for Freebox subscribers, with 25 GB of data usable abroad. Calls and SMS are unlimited to several international destinations.
Prepaid SIM and eSIM cards
To avoid roaming charges, opt for an American prepaid SIM or eSIM card. These options are economical and practical for travelers.
- Physical SIM card: available from local operators such as T-Mobile, AT&T or Verizon, these cards cost between $30 and $50 for packages with unlimited calls, SMS and data. They are also available from virtual operators. Your card is then sent to you quickly, so you can use it as soon as you arrive at the airport.
- Prepaid eSIM: Solutions such as Sim USA, Holafly or Airalo allow you to download an eSIM card directly onto your phone before you leave.
Read our eSIM card comparison guide for travel in the usa.
Rent a WiFi hotspot
For families or groups, a portable WiFi router is an excellent option. You’ll be able to connect multiple devices to the Internet while avoiding roaming costs.
It’s the ideal solution for those who don’t particularly want to call or text.
You can use your applications such as WhatsApp or Messenger, or load your GPS maps.
How to find free WiFi in the USA
Free WiFi is a popular alternative for saving on data. Here are the most frequent places where you can connect for free:
- Hotels: Most establishments offer WiFi included in the room rate.
- Restaurants and cafés: Chains like Starbucks and McDonald’s offer free, unlimited access.
- Department stores and supermarkets: Walmart, Target and others also offer free WiFi zones.
- Visitor Centers: perfect for road trips, these tourist information centers often provide Internet access.
Anticipation: the key to all Internet problems
The best way to avoid problems is to plan before you go.
Buy a prepaid package
Purchasing a specific package for the United States before you leave will save you a lot of trouble. Several websites offer prepaid SIM cards to order online and receive before your trip.
American issue: Why is it useful?
Getting a local number can come in handy, especially for booking activities or contacting local services. American SIM cards often include unlimited calls within the United States. Ask yourself what you’ll need on site?
Choosing a good after-sales service
In the event of a problem, good customer service can make all the difference. Choose operators or service providers with a good reputation for technical support.
Tips for saving on data
- Download your GPS maps offline via Google Maps or an equivalent application before you set off.
- Plan your days to take advantage of WiFi in public places.
- Use data management applications such as Data Usage or My Data Manager to monitor your consumption.
For a short stay, your French operator’s roaming options or an eSIM may suffice. On the other hand, for a road trip or a long stay, an unlimited American prepaid SIM card or a WiFi hotspot hotspot are more economical and practical solutions.
