> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://global-starlink.gitbook.io/help/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://global-starlink.gitbook.io/help/north-america.md).

# NORTH AMERICA

## Stay Connected in North America

<figure><img src="https://entiretravel.imgix.net/getmedia/d588fd0a-3805-4774-ad95-1b832532de15/jacky-huang-6rC8fmNW3pk-unsplash.jpg?auto=format" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

When travelling across **North America**, staying connected is essential – whether you're navigating the streets of New York, sharing your experiences on social media, or staying in touch with family and friends. Thankfully, there are a variety of SIM card options available, offering plans that suit different needs, budgets, and travel styles.

**Types of North American SIM Cards**

In North America, SIM cards can generally be split into two categories:

1. **Local SIM Cards**: These SIM cards are provided by major U.S., Canadian, and Mexican telecom companies such as **AT\&T**, **Verizon**, **Telus**, **Rogers**, **Telcel**, and others. Local SIM cards are ideal if you're staying in the region for an extended period, or if you're travelling throughout North America.
2. **International SIM Cards**: Providers like **Three UK**, **Vodafone**, and **Orange** offer SIM cards that work across multiple countries, including North America. These are a great choice if you're planning to travel beyond just the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, providing coverage in dozens of countries around the world.

mention calls/data only

**Key Providers in North America**

Here's a table that compares the major **North American telecom providers** and their features.

<table data-header-hidden><thead><tr><th></th><th></th><th></th><th></th><th width="181"></th><th></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Provider</strong></td><td><strong>Coverage Area</strong></td><td><strong>Data Allowance</strong></td><td><strong>Calls &#x26; SMS</strong></td><td><strong>Hotspot Support</strong></td><td><strong>Best For</strong></td></tr><tr><td><strong>AT&#x26;T (USA)</strong><br></td><td>U.S., Canada, Mexico</td><td>5GB, 10GB, 20GB+</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within U.S.)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Nationwide coverage &#x26; reliable service<br><br><a href="/pages/I4G9hJtHhQuXjMwr5Z2I">Find out more</a></td></tr><tr><td><strong>Verizon (USA)</strong></td><td>U.S., Canada</td><td>5GB, 10GB, Unlimited</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within U.S.)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Rural areas, best network coverage</td></tr><tr><td><strong>T-Mobile (USA)</strong></td><td>U.S., Canada, Mexico</td><td>5GB, 10GB, Unlimited</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within U.S.)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Budget travellers, fast 5G speeds</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Mint Mobile (USA)</strong></td><td>U.S. (uses T-Mobile network)</td><td>5GB, 10GB, 15GB</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within U.S.)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Budget-friendly for short stays</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Telus (Canada)</strong></td><td>Canada, U.S.</td><td>5GB, 10GB, 20GB+</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within Canada)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Ideal for long-term stays in Canada</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Rogers (Canada)</strong></td><td>Canada, U.S.</td><td>5GB, 10GB, 20GB+</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within Canada)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Canada-wide coverage, reliable service</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Telcel (Mexico)</strong></td><td>Mexico, U.S.</td><td>5GB, 10GB, 15GB</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (within Mexico)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Popular choice for Mexico-based travel</td></tr><tr><td><strong>Three UK (Global)</strong></td><td>U.S., Canada, Mexico, 71 countries</td><td>12GB, 20GB, 50GB</td><td>Unlimited calls &#x26; SMS (select countries)</td><td>Yes, included in plans</td><td>Multi-country travel (71 countries)</td></tr></tbody></table>

**How to Choose the Best SIM Card for Your Needs**

Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the right SIM card for your North American travels:

* **Duration of Stay**: If you're only staying for a short period, a **prepaid plan** is likely the most cost-effective option. For longer stays, a **local SIM** with a monthly plan might offer better value.
* **Data Usage**: If you're planning to use a lot of data for things like navigation, streaming, or social media, ensure the plan you choose has a sufficient **data allowance** or offers **unlimited data**.
* **Coverage Area**: If you’ll be visiting **rural areas**, choose a provider with strong coverage outside major cities. **Verizon** and **Telus** often offer the best coverage in **rural areas**.
* **Budget**: For those on a **tight budget**, consider more affordable providers like **Mint Mobile**, or **T-Mobile** for reasonable rates without compromising too much on coverage.
* **International Travel**: If your trip includes stops in multiple countries, an **international SIM card** like **Three UK** might be your best bet, offering coverage in **over 70 countries**.

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