sherryh0818

Hi Im planning to CA with my girlfriend this June about 15 days.
we are going to drive by ourselves, so we need the internet during the trip.
Our budget is limited so im thinking should i purchase a SIM card or is there any inexpensive way?

How do everyone use google maps and surfing the internet when traveling to US??

Please advice! Many thanksssss

doug_stallings

Free Wi-Fi is common in inexpensive hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops, and an internet connection isn't required to use Google Maps so long as you work out your route in advance (though you won't get real-time updates on your route). But having done driving trips before, I do like to have regular access to the internet when I'm traveling, even when I'm on the road. I don't know about renting because the US isn't as advanced as many other countries, but you can certainly get plans for about $10 a day, and you can buy devices that work around the world for a reasonable price.

changwenchi

I have rent a pocket WiFi before since last time I went to Japan, not bad. You can check iVideo (https://goo.gl/Cc7dAf) Hope it helps.

sherryh0818

doug- Thanks!one more question, I have to buy something before use the WiFi right? in the coffee shops or restaurants.

changwenchi- Thanks for the reply! I will check it out.

doug_stallings

You won't have to buy a separate device to use free Wi-Fi offered by establishments if you already own a smartphone or tablet (or computer with Wi-Fi).

If you want to use cell-based Wi-Fi, then you could buy a device. Most cost about US$50 to US$100, but I'm not sure I'd do that for just 2 weeks.

Skyroam sells one for $99 and offers service around the world for $9.95 per day. That seems like the best alternative to me.

But you should also check at your airport of entry to the US. In large airports, I bet you can rent them, and that would be the best idea of all for such a short trip.

I also rented one in Japan, and it was perfect. But as I said, the US isn't quite as advanced as the rest of the world on that front.

elberko

I believe the OP means is it necessary to buy a cup of coffee to get the WIFI code.

sf7307

I think so too Elberko and the answer is "it depends" - Starbucks no, Peets yes, for exaample.

nelsonian

We have just got back from a 28 day trip to the US. We paid $ 40.00 for a month's 4g data package, yes you get a new sim card for your phone.. It was extremely useful. I do not consider that it was an expensive purchase. This was with AT&T.

doug_stallings

Yes, I guess I missed the whole point of the OP's question. I'm glad others weren't so dense.

I think the idea of buying a data package with a new SIM might be the most cost-effective. That means you don't have to buy any kind of new device, and you can keep the new SIM or discard it when you go home.

sherryh0818

Doug- ohh thanks the information above helps! I have checked changwenchi's link above seems more cheaper than skyroam. seems only 4.78 per day. I'm still considering it! but the SIM idea seems more cheaper. I guess i have more homework to do. haha thanksss

elberko- thanks!

sf7307- thanks!

nelsonlai- ohh thank you.May I ask, You purchased the SIM at US Airport? or at your country. Thanksss

sf7307

Just yesterday I saw a sign outside a T-mobile store that said they have some kind of package for $30 intended for visitors to the United States. You should check it out.

nelsonian

We purchased our SIM at an airport in Hawaii. Phone shops all over the US sell SIM cards that tourists can use for a month or so.

sherryh0818

sf7307- i see thanksss

neksonian- i see thanksss

sherryh0818

Hi Thanksss for everyone share the ideas and experience with me!!

I'll rent the pocket WiFi which is only 30USD per month.
((https://goo.gl/Cc7dAf))
Very much appreciated!