Data Roaming in the USA: Best Options for Travelers

Data roaming in the USA can cost anywhere from $10–$25 per day with major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, making it one of the most expensive destinations for travelers. The best way to avoid these high international roaming charges is by using an eSIM for iPhone or Android, such as Jetpac, which offers coverage in 200+ destinations, free access to WhatsApp and Google Maps, and rates up to 70% cheaper than carrier roaming. For short stays, eSIMs and local prepaid SIMs provide the best balance of price, speed, and convenience compared to traditional roaming plans.

Staying connected in the USA can get expensive if you rely on your regular mobile plan. Many travelers assume that roaming will only add a small cost, but in reality, data roaming in the USA is among the most expensive in the world. A few minutes of online use or background syncing can result in a huge bill later.

This blog explains what data roaming means, how it works in the USA, and the best ways to avoid high international roaming charges. You’ll also find practical tips on how to turn on roaming on iPhone or Android, the best network for roaming in the USA, and how to pick an eSIM for iPhone or Android that fits your trip and budget.

What is Data Roaming?

Data roaming means using mobile data while you’re outside your home network, for example, when you travel to another country and your phone connects to a local carrier automatically. This lets you browse the internet, use apps, and make calls just like at home, without changing your SIM card.

Your home carrier bills you for this usage through agreements with American networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. While it’s convenient, data roaming in the USA often costs much more than at home, sometimes 50 to 100 times higher.

Pros of Data Roaming

Instant connection: Your phone works the moment you land, no setup required.

Same number: You keep your regular phone number for calls, texts, and verification codes.

Works on all phones: No need to check compatibility or install new SIMs.

No planning: Ideal for last-minute or short business trips.

Cons of Data Roaming

Very high cost: Roaming in the USA can cost $10–20 per day for limited data, or $2 per MB if billed by usage.

Limited data: Daily passes often cap at 500MB–1GB before slowing down.

Bill shock risk: Background apps and updates can quietly consume data worth hundreds of dollars.

Hidden fees: Incoming calls, voicemails, or connection fees can add up fast.

Example: A two-week trip to the USA using $12/day roaming adds up to $168, often more than the cost of a local SIM or eSIM plan.

How Data Roaming Works in the USA?

When you arrive in the USA, your phone automatically connects to local networks such as AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. These networks have agreements with your home carrier, allowing you to use your phone for calls, texts, and data.

After connecting, you’ll see the US carrier name (for example, “AT&T” or “T-Mobile”) on your screen. From that moment, all data usage, browsing, navigation, messaging, or app activity is handled by the US network but charged by your home carrier under its international roaming rates.

This process happens automatically once data roaming is enabled in your settings. You don’t need to change SIM cards or enter any codes.

Roaming costs in the USA depend on your carrier. Some providers charge a daily roaming fee (around $10–12 per day), while others charge by data usage (up to $2 per MB). Even limited use of maps or background app updates can add up quickly.

Network coverage in the USA is generally strong with widespread 4G and 5G availability in cities and towns. Coverage may be reduced in remote or rural areas, especially inside national parks or mountainous regions.

Roaming Rates & Costs in the USA

If you’re traveling within or outside the USA, it’s important to know how roaming charges work. Prices can vary a lot depending on whether you’re roaming domestically or internationally.

1. Domestic Roaming (Within the USA)

Domestic roaming happens when your phone connects to another carrier’s network in areas where your main provider has no coverage. Most major carriers include this at no extra cost.

Overall, domestic roaming is fairly seamless and usually included in your plan.

2. International Roaming (Outside the USA)

Roaming abroad is much more expensive. Here’s what the big carriers offer:

Verizon

TravelPass: $12/day (or $6/day in Mexico/Canada). Unlimited calls, texts, and 5GB of high-speed data per day.

Monthly Plan: $100/month for 250 minutes, unlimited texts, and 20GB of high-speed data.

Pay-as-you-go: $1.79/minute calls, $0.50 texts, $2.05/MB data.

AT&T

International Day Pass: $12/day (first device), $5/day for others. Use your regular plan abroad.

Calling Plan: $15/month for unlimited calls to many countries.

Pay-as-you-go: $1–$2/minute calls, $0.50 texts, $2.05/MB data.

T-Mobile

Magenta / Magenta MAX / Go5G Plans: Unlimited texting and data in 215+ countries (5GB high-speed, then slower). Calls cost $0.20–$0.25/minute.

Experience More: $85/month, 15GB high-speed in Canada/Mexico, 5GB elsewhere.

Experience Beyond: $100/month, 30GB high-speed in Canada/Mexico, 15GB elsewhere.

International Pass: $5/day (512MB), $35/10 days (5GB), $50/30 days (15GB).

Pay-as-you-go: $0.25/minute calls, $0.50 texts, no prepaid data roaming.

US Cellular

Basic options with per-minute charges of $0.80 and small data bundles (50–125MB for $35/month). Texts cost $0.40 to send, $0.25 to receive, plus a $3 daily connection fee.

Pay-As-You-Go Costs

Without a roaming plan, you could pay $2–$10 per MB, meaning even simple online tasks can cost several dollars. Always choose a roaming plan before traveling.

How to Turn Data Roaming On or Off?

When you travel outside your usual coverage area, your phone may connect to other networks to keep you online. This is called data roaming. While it helps you stay connected abroad, roaming can lead to extra charges, especially if you don’t have a roaming plan.

To avoid unexpected bills, it’s important to know how to control data roaming on your phone. You can turn it on when you need to use mobile data abroad or off to prevent background apps from using data automatically.

Below are simple steps for both iPhone and Android users, using both the Settings menu and the Quick Access (notification swipe) method.

For iPhone Users

Option 1: Using Settings

Open the Settings app.

Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data, depending on your region).

Select Cellular Data Options.

Tap Data Roaming and toggle it ON or OFF.

Tip: Keep Data Roaming OFF if you’re abroad without a roaming plan, as it helps avoid costly charges.

Option 2: Using Control Center (Quick Access)

Swipe down from the top-right corner (for iPhone X or later) or swipe up from the bottom (older models).

Tap and hold the Cellular Data or Internet icon.

Toggle Cellular Data ON/OFF to quickly stop all mobile data use (including roaming).

Note: You can only turn Data Roaming on/off through Settings — not directly from Control Center.

For Android Users

Option 1: Using Settings

Open the Settings app.

Tap Network & Internet (or Connections on Samsung phones).

Select Mobile Network or SIMs.

Toggle Data Roaming ON or OFF.

Tip: The exact menu names can differ slightly by brand (Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, etc.).

Option 2: Using Quick Settings (Notification Swipe)

Swipe down from the top of your screen to open the notification panel.

Swipe down again to show all Quick Settings icons.

Tap the Mobile Data / Internet icon to turn mobile data ON or OFF.

Turning off mobile data also disables roaming.

Long-press the Mobile Data icon to jump directly into Mobile Network settings, where you can toggle Data Roaming.

Is Data Roaming Free or Included in Your Plan?

Whether data roaming is free depends on where you’re traveling, within the USA (domestic) or abroad (international).

1, Domestic Data Roaming (Within the USA)

Domestic roaming is usually free for most major US carriers. It happens when your phone connects to another network in areas where your carrier has weak or no coverage.

Here’s how the main carriers handle it:

In short: Roaming within the USA is free for most users, but data speed and limits may vary by plan.

2. International Data Roaming (Outside the USA)

International roaming is not free. You’ll need to buy a roaming plan or use a pay-as-you-go option; otherwise, charges can get very high.

Why It’s Not Free

Unlike Europe’s “Roam Like at Home” system, US carriers don’t have global roaming agreements. They pay foreign networks for access, so you pay extra when you travel abroad.

3. International Roaming Options by Carrier

4. Pay-as-You-Go Costs (Without a Plan)

If you don’t buy a roaming package, charges can be very expensive:

Even downloading a single email can cost several dollars.

Always Remember:

Domestic roaming: Free for most US carriers, but data limits may apply.

International roaming: Always paid — not included in your plan.

Best option: Use carrier roaming plans like Verizon TravelPass or AT&T Day Pass for predictable costs.

Avoid: Pay-as-you-go rates — they can quickly reach hundreds of dollars.

A Smarter Option: eSIMs

Instead of paying for roaming, travelers can use an eSIM for iPhone or Android to get instant, low-cost data. eSIM plans activate in minutes, cost far less than roaming, and offer strong coverage across the US.

Jetpac includes added benefits such as:

Free access to WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, and Grab even when your data runs out.

Reliable 4G and 5G coverage across the USA.

100% prepaid plans, so there are no bill shocks or surprise fees.

Using an eSIM keeps your phone connected at local rates while avoiding the high international roaming charges most travelers face.

5 Ways to Avoid Roaming Charges in the USA

Roaming in the USA can get costly, but a few quick steps can help you save money and still stay connected.

1. Use Wi-Fi as much as possible

Connect to free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafés, or airports. Turn on Wi-Fi Calling to make calls or send texts through the internet instead of mobile data.

2. Turn off background data

Apps often use data without you noticing. Turn off Background App Refresh (iPhone) or Background Data (Android) to stop automatic syncing and updates.

3. Download maps offline

Save maps from Google Maps or Apple Maps before your trip so you can navigate without using data.

4. Use airplane mode when not needed

Switch to airplane mode during flights, long drives, or when you don’t need data. You can still use Wi-Fi while airplane mode is on.

5. Get a local SIM or eSIM

Using a local SIM card or an eSIM for iPhone or Android is much cheaper than roaming. eSIMs like Jetpac can be activated online in minutes and include free access to WhatsApp, Google Maps, and Uber, even if your data runs out.

Alternative Options to Roaming in the USA

If you want to skip high international roaming charges, there are several better ways to stay connected during your trip.

1. Local SIM Cards / Prepaid SIMs

You can buy prepaid SIMs from major US networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon.

Plans start around $30–60/month with 15GB to unlimited data.

Available at airports, carrier stores, and retailers like Walmart or Target.

You’ll need to show your passport or ID for activation.
This is a good choice for stays longer than a week.

2. eSIMs for the USA

An eSIM for iPhone or Android is the easiest and fastest way to get connected.

Buy and activate online before you travel, no store visit or paperwork.

Plans from providers like Holafly, Airalo, and Jetpac start around $3–7 for short stays or $20–50 for longer trips.

eSIMs work instantly and often support 4G and 5G across all 50 states.

Jetpac is one of the best eSIMs for the USA, offering:

Coverage in 200+ destinations.

Free access to WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, and Grab even when data runs out.

100% prepaid plans, no surprise bills or extra fees.

3. Pocket Wi-Fi / Mobile Hotspot

If you’re traveling in a group or need to connect multiple devices, rent a pocket Wi-Fi.

Costs about $10–15 per day.

Can connect up to 5–10 devices at once.

Available for pickup at airports or delivery to hotels.

Downside: it’s another device to carry and charge daily.

4. Travel SIMs / Global SIMs

A global SIM card works in multiple countries, including the USA.

Great for travelers visiting several destinations.

Providers include Airalo Global, OneSimCard, and Matrix.

Usually more expensive than country-specific SIMs but convenient for frequent travel.

Best SIM Providers for International Roaming in the USA

If you’re traveling to the US, there are several reliable options to stay connected without paying high international roaming charges. Here’s a breakdown by category.

Top eSIM Providers

eSIMs are the easiest way to get connected in the USA. They activate instantly via QR code and don’t require any physical cards or in-store visits.

Why choose eSIMs:

Instant activation, no paperwork, and much lower cost than carrier roaming. They’re perfect for iPhone or Android users who want a quick setup before departure.

2. Physical Prepaid SIM Providers

If you prefer a traditional SIM card, US carriers offer strong prepaid plans. You’ll need to visit a store or airport counter, show ID, and insert the SIM manually.

Note: Physical SIMs may require in-person registration and can take extra time to activate compared to eSIMs.

3. Global Roaming SIM Providers

Most local mobile operators around the world, such as Vodafone, Airtel, or O2, also offer global roaming SIM options that let you use your number in the USA. However, these roaming add-ons often come at a steep cost, typically 70–90% higher than local U.S. rates or travel-specific plans.

If you prefer using a physical SIM card for international travel instead of an eSIM, here are some of the most reliable global roaming SIM providers that work well in the USA:

Key Takeaway

While global roaming SIMs offer flexibility and keep your original number active, they’re much more expensive than travel-specific SIMs or eSIMs. For most travelers, it’s smarter to skip local carrier roaming and instead use a dedicated travel SIM or eSIM, saving up to 70–90% in roaming costs while enjoying the same U.S. coverage and speed.

Bill Shock & Hidden Charges to Watch For

Bill shock happens when travelers receive unexpectedly high mobile bills due to roaming. It can reach thousands of dollars if roaming isn’t managed carefully.

An Australian tourist was billed $517,000 when a stolen phone made calls to Somalia.

A US traveler received a $143,000 bill for 9.5GB of roaming data in Switzerland.

A UK politician was charged £11,000 after his iPad auto-synced data abroad.

These cases show how easily roaming charges can spiral out of control.

1. Background Data and Auto-Sync

Many apps keep using data in the background, for emails, cloud backups, and automatic updates.

Turn off Background App Refresh or Background Data before traveling.

Disable auto-sync for photos, email, and social media apps.

Schedule backups and app updates only on Wi-Fi.

Even a few minutes of background syncing during transit can add hundreds of dollars in costs.

2. Daily Flat-Rate Trap

Daily roaming passes (around $10–12/day) look affordable but often include only 500MB–1GB of data. Extra usage triggers overage fees that can match or exceed standard pay-as-you-go rates.

A two-week trip at $12/day still adds up to $168, more than most local or eSIM plans.

3. Incoming Call and Text Charges

Receiving calls or texts can also cost money while roaming.

Both the caller and the receiver may be charged.

Premium and short-code numbers are especially expensive.

Voicemail retrieval abroad is billed as an international call.

To avoid extra charges, disable voicemail or use email-based transcription instead.

4. Extra Fees and Taxes

Many US carriers add administrative or regulatory recovery fees ($3–15/month) on top of base rates. Always check the full cost, including taxes and surcharges, before choosing a plan.

5. Speed Throttling

“Unlimited” roaming plans often slow down after a usage cap.

Verizon slows after 15GB,

Google Fi after 50GB,

T-Mobile offers only 2G speeds unless upgraded.
eSIM providers like Holafly may also reduce speed after heavy use under Fair Usage Policies.

6. No Spending Caps

Some carriers have no automatic spending limits. Without one, your phone can keep using data until your next bill.

To stay safe:

Enable usage alerts at 50%, 75%, and 90%.

Turn on spending caps if your carrier offers them.

Track usage through your carrier app daily while abroad.

Picking the Best eSIM Option for Your Trip to the USA

You can choose any eSIM provider based on your needs; there are plenty of options out there. But when you’re spending money on connectivity, you should get the best experience and the most value for what you pay.

That’s where Jetpac eSIM for the USA stands out, offering unmatched convenience, coverage, and freedom wherever you travel.

Why Jetpac is a Smarter Choice

1 eSIM, 200+ destinations: Set it up once and simply top up for your next trip, no need to switch or reinstall.

Always-on with multiple networks: Jetpac gives you an exclusive feature that keeps you connected 24/7, even when one network drops.

No bill shocks: 100% upfront payment, no hidden charges, and up to 70% cheaper than traditional roaming.

Unlimited Hotspot Sharing: Share data freely with your other devices, no restrictions.

Free access to essential apps: Use Uber, WhatsApp chat, and Google Maps even after your data runs out.

24/7 premium customer support: Real people, real help, anytime via WhatsApp or email, across all time zones.

Voice calls and 5G support: Make outgoing calls to 50+ countries (from just $1.99/5 minutes) with blazing-fast 5G data.

FAQs

Can I use data roaming in the USA?

Yes, you can use data roaming in the USA if your carrier has a roaming agreement with American networks such as AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon. Your phone will connect automatically, but roaming rates are usually very high unless you buy a daily or international pass first.

Should data roaming be on or off in the US?

Keep data roaming OFF until you confirm you have a plan that covers roaming in the USA. Turning it on without a roaming pass or local SIM can trigger expensive charges. Once you have an active local SIM or eSIM plan, you can safely turn roaming ON to use local data.

What is the cheapest way to use my phone in the USA?

The cheapest way is to avoid roaming entirely. Use a local prepaid SIM or an eSIM for iPhone or Android, such as Jetpac, Airalo, or Holafly. These plans start around $3–5 and include local 4G/5G data at much lower rates than carrier roaming.

Will I be charged for data roaming?

Yes, unless your plan specifically includes free USA roaming. Without a pass or add-on, most carriers charge around $10–12 per day or up to $2 per MB for pay-as-you-go data. Always check your carrier’s international rates before traveling.

When does roaming occur?

Roaming starts automatically when your phone connects to a network outside your home country. As soon as you land in the USA and your device detects AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon, your carrier will start billing you for roaming usage if it’s enabled.

Can I use my phone in the USA?

Yes. Most modern phones work perfectly in the US, especially the iPhone XS or newer, the Samsung Galaxy S20+, and the Google Pixel 3+. Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports US 4G/5G bands. If it does, you can use a local SIM, roaming, or an eSIM for USA travel with no issues.

Disclaimer:

All prices, data rates, and plan details mentioned in this article are based on publicly available information from carrier and eSIM provider websites at the time of writing. Actual costs, coverage, and features may vary depending on your location, device compatibility, plan type, and currency exchange rates. Readers are advised to verify the latest terms and pricing directly with their service providers before purchase. Jetpac and this publication are not responsible for any changes, billing discrepancies, or additional fees applied by third-party carriers or partners.