As you plan your next adventure to the United States, understanding roaming charges is crucial for managing your travel budget and staying connected. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about roaming charges in the USA, including how to avoid them and keep your communication costs in check.

Are There Roaming Charges in the USA?

Yes, roaming charges can apply when you use your home country's mobile service in the USA. These charges occur when your phone connects to a US carrier's network instead of your usual provider. For international travelers, this often means significantly higher rates for calls, texts, and data usage. However, the specifics can vary depending on your home country and mobile plan. It's always wise to check with your provider before traveling to understand potential costs and available international options.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in the USA?

Roaming charges typically kick in as soon as your phone connects to a US network. This happens automatically when you arrive in the country unless you've turned off data roaming on your device. Charges apply to various services:

• Making or receiving calls

• Sending or receiving text messages

• Using mobile data for internet browsing, email, or apps

Even if you're not actively using your phone, some apps might run in the background, potentially incurring data charges. It's important to be aware of these potential costs from the moment you land in the USA.

Roaming Charges in the USA

Let's dive into the world of roaming charges in the USA. Whether you're planning a coast-to-coast road trip or a quick business jaunt, understanding these costs can save you from a nasty surprise on your phone bill.

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for the USA:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.20 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.20 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

• Receiving a voicemail: Charged at the same rate as receiving a call (£1.20 per minute)

• Saving a voicemail: Charged at the same rate as making a call (£1.20 per minute)

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making calls: 60p per minute

• Receiving calls: 36p per minute

• Sending text messages: 8p per text

• Sending picture messages: 66p per message

• Mobile data: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making calls: £2 per minute

• Receiving calls: £2 per minute

• Sending texts: 50p per text

• Using data: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday USA package limited to 14 days for €24.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• 500MB per day: €6.05

• 1 GB per day: €4 (available from July 18 to October 17)

• To Spain or local numbers: €1.82 per minute + €1.21 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.21 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €1.82 per minute + €1.21 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

Data Bundles:

• 10 GB for 24.99

• 15 GB for 34.99

• Data-only bundles (no calls or SMS included)

• Valid for 31 days

• No data sharing available

Important Notes:

• Without a bundle, data costs 2.50 per MB

• Once your bundle is depleted, internet access stops

Calls and SMS (pay-as-you-go rates):

• Making calls: 1.00 per minute

• Receiving calls: 0.50 per minute

• Sending SMS: 0.30 per message

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $12.00 per 50 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $1.45 per min

• or $12.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

• $10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in the USA

Here are some savvy ways to stay connected without paying high roaming fees:

• Use eSIMs: If your device supports it, an eSIM is your new best friend. Download a USA-specific plan before you even board the plane. Check our eSIM for USA page before planning your trip. It's quick, easy, and often more cost-effective than traditional roaming.

• Go Local with a SIM Card: Once you land, swing by a mobile store or even some convenience stores to pick up a local SIM. Most major carriers offer prepaid plans that'll keep you connected without the international fees.

• Leverage Wi-Fi Hotspots: The USA is brimming with free Wi-Fi. From cafes to libraries, and even some city centers, you can often find a connection. Just remember to use a VPN for added security on public networks.

• Download Maps for Offline Use: Google Maps lets you download areas for offline navigation. Do this before you leave, and you won't need data for directions.

• Set Data Limits: If you do need to use cellular data, set usage alerts or limits on your phone to avoid any shocking surprises.

You can read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more detailed information.

Roamless eSIM for USA

At Roamless, we've designed our eSIM to be as flexible and powerful as your travel ambitions. Here's what makes Roamless eSIM your ideal travel companion:

• Unthrottled Speed: Say goodbye to sluggish connections. We deliver local network speeds without any artificial caps, ensuring you stay productive and connected wherever you roam.

• Pay-As-You-Go: Only pay for what you use. Our flexible pricing means you're not locked into plans you don't need, giving you full control over your data expenses.

• Never-Expiring Funds: Your funds are yours to keep. Unlike traditional plans, your Roamless credit doesn't come with an expiration date, so you can pick up right where you left off on your next adventure.

• Borderless Connectivity: No need to juggle multiple country-specific plans. Our eSIM works seamlessly across borders, perfect for those whirlwind multi-country trips.

• Local Network Performance: Enjoy the same speeds as local users. We partner with top-tier networks in each country to ensure you're always getting the best possible connection.

It's clear from this comparison that relying on standard roaming can quickly become expensive, especially for data usage. Even a simple task like checking your email or loading a map could cost several dollars. This is where solutions like Roamless eSIM can offer significant savings, providing local rates that are often a fraction of these roaming costs.

Visit our eSIM USA page before planning your trip. You can also check our guide on the best eSIM for the USA for more information.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/usa

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/united-states

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#USA

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations