Connectivity abroad
How to avoid roaming charges when travelling to the USA
US roaming can be expensive if you're not prepared. Here's how to plan ahead and stay connected without bill shock.
BrisqNet Team · Published 2026-08-30 · 6 min read
International roaming rates for a US trip can be some of the steepest on a phone bill, particularly for travellers from outside North America. The US is also a country where a working data connection matters more than in many destinations, since navigation and ride-hailing apps are close to essential for getting around most cities.
Check your home operator's US roaming terms
Roaming pricing for the US varies significantly by home operator and by plan. Some providers include a certain allowance for US travel, others charge per day or per megabyte. Check your specific plan's terms for the US before you fly — don't assume a rate from a different destination applies.
Planning ahead
- Check your operator's current US roaming terms well before departure
- Compare a BrisqNet travel eSIM for the US, sized to your actual itinerary and how much you'll rely on navigation apps
- Install the eSIM before you fly so it's ready when you land
- If you're covering long distances or multiple states, size your data plan for sustained daily navigation use, not just a short city break
Once you land
Turn on your travel eSIM's data line and keep your home SIM's data roaming switched off to avoid stacking charges. Airport and hotel Wi-Fi can supplement your data, but a working mobile connection matters for the moments in between — hailing a ride, finding a restaurant, or navigating an unfamiliar city.
Is US roaming always more expensive than other destinations?
It depends entirely on your home operator's specific plan and terms. Some plans include reasonable US roaming; others charge significantly more. Always check your own plan's current terms.
How much data do I need for a US road trip?
It depends on how much you rely on navigation and streaming. See our guide on how much travel data you actually need for a practical way to estimate your plan size.