California is a top destination for both domestic and international travelers. With its vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, and near-perfect weather, it’s easy to see why.
However, one thing that can complicate travel is staying connected. Renting a pocket WiFi or buying a local SIM card can be inconvenient and costly. This is where an eSIM comes in handy.
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a software-based SIM card that allows you to access mobile data without a physical SIM. eSIMs are directly embedded into your phone or device. With an eSIM, you can easily connect to a cellular network without roaming charges.
So what is the best eSIM for visitors to California? Let’s take a look at the top options in 2024.
What to Look for in a California eSIM
When choosing an eSIM for California, there are a few key factors to consider:
1. Coverage Area
You’ll want to ensure your eSIM provides solid coverage for the specific areas you plan to visit. The major networks like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile generally offer strong statewide coverage. But also check coverage if you’re headed to more remote areas.
2. Data Allowance
California offers endless ways to burn through mobile data. Carefully select your data allowance based on your expected usage. Light users can likely get by with a 3-5GB monthly plan. Heavier users should consider unlimited data options.
3. Price
eSIM pricing can vary widely, from $10 for just 1GB to over $100 for an unlimited high-speed plan. Set a budget and shop rates from multiple providers. Shorter trips may benefit from a 7 or 15-day eSIM plan versus paying for 30 days.
4. Customer Support
No matter how reliable an eSIM carrier is, you may occasionally need customer support. Prioritize eSIM providers with 24/7 customer service and a variety of contact methods.
5. Connection Reliability
Finally, you want consistent access to fast data speeds when using your device away from Wi-Fi hotspots. Check recent customer reviews on overall network reliability when choosing your plan.
Top eSIM Carriers for California
Based on the criteria above, here are some of the top eSIM options for California visitors and residents:
Airalo
Airalo is an international eSIM provider operating in over 200 countries. Their eSIM app makes it easy to install plans in minutes. Their U.S. plan includes unlimited talk and text plus 10GB of data for $26. You can purchase 1GB, 3GB or 20GB plans as well. Airalo uses the AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile networks to ensure reliable coverage.
Plans: 1GB, 3GB, 10GB, 20GB
Price: $4.50 – $42
Networks: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile
Surfroam
Surfroam is based in California and optimized for U.S. travelers. They offer unlimited data eSIMs starting at $9/day. You can also buy 1GB, 5GB and 10GB plans for short trips. Surfroam currently uses T-Mobile’s network but still provides solid coverage around California due to native optimization.
Plans: 1GB, 5GB, 10GB, Unlimited
Price: $5 – $24/week
Networks: T-Mobile
Nomad
Nomad is arguably the most well-known global provider in our round-up. Their California plan includes 5GB of LTE data on either AT&T or T-Mobile valid for 30 days. You can also opt for a 10GB plan or shorter durations like 7 or 15 days. If visiting beyond California, Nomad provides eSIMs up to 12 months for over 165 countries.
Plans: 1GB, 5GB, 10GB
Price: $7 – $32
Networks: AT&T, T-Mobile
Ubigi
Ubigi frequently has some of the best rates for U.S. data plans through their eSIM app. Their LTE plans are contract-free with no hidden fees. Right now they offer 6GB for 15 days on the T-Mobile network which covers most visitors. You can also get 500MB to 200GB plans if needed.
Plans: 500MB to Unlimited
Price: $2.50 – $180
Networks: T-Mobile, AT&T
Dent
Dent uses eSIM technology but works a bit differently than other carriers. With Dent, you essentially buy mobile data credits that can be used anytime, anywhere Dent has coverage. For California, Dent partners with AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. Plans can work very affordably for light users visiting specific areas.
Rates: approx $0.10 per 1GB (pay-per-gig pricing)
Networks: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile
Getting Your eSIM for California
Once you choose the ideal plan and provider for your situation, you’ll need to complete a few quick steps to get connected:
- Confirm eSIM compatibility – Most newer phones like iPhone XR or Samsung Galaxy S9 and newer models support eSIM. You can contact your device manufacturer to verify.
- Order your California eSIM – Visit your provider’s website or app to order your eSIM plan. Most will only need an email and payment details.
- Install and activate – Following checkout, you’ll receive an email and QR activation code you can scan using your phone’s camera. This installs the eSIM cellular data profile.
- Connect and go – Once activation completes, enable mobile data on your phone to start browsing!
Be sure to use the provider’s sizing tool if there is one available to select the proper amount of data before checkout.
For a stress-free experience, order your eSIM in advance before leaving home to ensure it works properly. Most providers offer risk-free cancellations if your trip gets delayed or cancelled for any reason.
Do You Need an eSIM for California?
For most California visitors and travelers, getting an eSIM is the simplest way to avoid roaming charges and carry reliable internet access everywhere.
However, there are still a few cases when it may make sense to use a traditional physical SIM card instead:
- You’ll be in very remote rural areas requiring specialized regional carrier coverage.
- You need to make voice calls and SMS messaging from your cellular number. eSIMs are currently data-only.
- You travel internationally to countries where eSIM tech and support are still limited.
- You are using an older model phone without built-in eSIM capabilities.
Added California eSIM Tips
To close, here are some additional pointers to help you save money and get the best performance from your eSIM:
- Use hotel and cafe WiFi for light browsing when available to stretch your eSIM data allowance
- Manually enable/disable cellular data when not actively using data to save your eSIM balance
- Consider eSIM refill options or unlimited plans if you’re a chronic heavy data user
- Restart your phone if you experience network connectivity issues before contacting support
- Check your remaining data balance periodically to track usage
- When eSIM is inactive, remember to disable Cellular Data completely to avoid auto app data usage
- Download maps and playlists on WiFi in advance for offline use later on the go
Have an incredible trip to California! With the right eSIM plan keeping you conveniently connected, you’re sure to have an unforgettable travel experience. Safe travels!
