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Internet in the U.S., prices, operators

Added: 17.01.2024, Updated: 07.02.2024,

When traveling in the United States, access to reliable and high-speed Internet is crucial for many travelers from Poland and beyond. Navigating such a vast expanse of the North American continent requires at least constant access to maps and contact with loved ones in case of emergencies. Fortunately, the Internet in the US is relatively easy to access. All you need to remember is some information about, among other things, the available operators and how to access the network (even before you fly to America).

In this article, we'll take a look at how the Internet works in the U.S., what the prices are for services, which mobile operators dominate the market, and how you can optimally use the Internet while traveling in the United States.

How does the Internet work in the United States?

Internet in the U.S. mainly operates via broadband technology such as DSL, cable, fiber, and cellular networks. Each of these technologies has its own advantages and limitations, and availability can vary by region. Cities typically have better Internet infrastructure, which translates into faster connections.

Cellular networks in the US are widely developed, covering urban and rural areas. Cellular operators offer a variety of data packages, allowing Internet usage whether on smartphones, tablets or mobile hotspots.

Internet availability in the US

If you need to connect to the network as soon as you land in the United States - please note that unlike many countries, US airports rarely have SIM card outlets (in fact, the only exception is Newark International Airport in New York). These are usually available at mobile operators' outlets or at the most popular retail chains (such as Best Buy and Walmart).

There are options for securing Internet access in the U.S. even before the plane leaves. XOXO WiFi service is available for purchase online. After ordering, the device is shipped to a given address a few days before the scheduled trip. The pocket router can be turned on as soon as you land at the airport. With one click, you can enjoy the Internet in the US right from the start of your stay in the country.

Average price for Internet access in the US

US Flag, XOXO WiFi Internet Access Internet prices in the US depend on several factors. First of all, it depends on the size of the data package. Mobile operators offer customers various options. You usually pay for the amount of data you plan to consume in a month. Prices start at around $30-40 for a basic data plan consisting of a package of about 15 GB of Internet for use within the US. At the same time, costs can be higher depending on the amount of data you choose and additional features.

Mobile operators in the US

In the US, there are several major mobile operators that dominate the telecommunications market. These include:

AT&T: One of the largest telecommunications companies in the United States, offering both home broadband and mobile services nationwide. Their service is covered extensively and includes a variety of data packages.
Verizon: Known for its mobile network and broadband services. Verizon offers high-speed Internet both at home and on the go within the US. They also have an extensive 5G network.
T-Mobile: A mobile operator that is known for its competitive price offers and innovative approaches to service. T-Mobile offers a variety of data packages as a prepaid service.
Sprint (now part of T-Mobile): Now acquired by T-Mobile, prior to 2020 Sprint offered mobile Internet access as a separate mobile operator.

Cheap Internet in the US

When looking for cheaper Internet in the US, it's a good idea to compare offers from different providers and mobile operators. However, if you need access to the net as cheaply as possible, many food and beverage outlets and in hotels will get you access to a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, we do not recommend this for people who operate on important documents while traveling. A public hotspot is no guarantee of data security!

For XOXO WiFi - Internet access in the United States starts at $42 per day. If you fly to the United States in a small group of 3 to 5 people - dividing these costs will result in the fact that during the trip you can use the Internet paying as much as PLN 8.40 for 1 day of service!

Roaming in the US

Map of Internet coverage in the US

Roaming in the U.S. is usually not a problem for customers of U.S. mobile operators. Nevertheless, if you plan to use a foreign number, it is worthwhile to consult with the operator in your country for information on roaming and possible additional charges.

Remember that in the case of a non-European country - costs for roaming in the US can reach horrendous amounts. We recommend using this service only in really emergency situations, where you do not need to transfer a lot of data.

High-speed Internet in the US

Internet speeds in the US depend mainly on the technology chosen and location. In cities, where the infrastructure is better developed, faster connections are available, while in the periphery the coverage is usually much worse, which can reflect negatively on the average data transfer speed.

Effective ways to access the Internet in the U.S.

The above text confidently presents methods on how to connect to mobile Internet within the United States, which is certainly important for Polish travelers. Even if you need to urgently purchase a SIM card with a data package, fortunately, this can usually be done at general stores such as Best Buy or Walmart.

In addition, it is possible to purchase XOXO WiFi service for the US even before your scheduled departure. We hope that all of the above tips will make your travel in America comfortable and guaranteed to reduce costs.