Many trips in North America cross borders: driving from Seattle to Vancouver, visiting Niagara Falls from both sides, combining New York with Toronto, or adding a week in Cancun to a US trip. With a North America eSIM, you do not need a new SIM at each border.
The plan connects to local partner networks in each country. If you only visit one country, a single-country plan for the USA, Canada or Mexico can be cheaper.
Coverage and networks in North America
North America plans usually cover the USA, Canada and Mexico. In the USA they mostly use AT&T or T-Mobile, in Canada Rogers or Bell, and in Mexico Telcel or AT&T Mexico.
Coverage in cities and along major highways is excellent in all three countries. National parks in the USA and Canada, the Canadian north and rural parts of Mexico have gaps, regardless of the network.
Not included: Cuba, the Caribbean islands, Central America and usually Alaska's most remote areas. Hawaii and Alaska are part of the USA and generally included, but rural coverage there is limited.
How much data do you need for North America?
North America road trips are long and data-heavy. For two to three weeks with navigation, bookings and social media, plan on 15 to 25 GB. If you stream or use a hotspot, consider an unlimited plan.
- One week, two countries: 5 to 8 GB
- Two to three week road trip: 15 to 25 GB
- Heavy use: unlimited
For details, see How much data do I need?.
Setup and practical tips for North America
Install the eSIM at home over Wi-Fi a day or two before you fly, then switch it on when you land. Step-by-step instructions: iPhone and Android.
Turn on data roaming for the eSIM so it can connect in each country. When you cross a border, the switch should happen automatically; if not, toggle airplane mode. Download offline maps for national parks and remote stretches before you leave town.
Travel eSIMs are data-only. If you need a local number for restaurant waitlists or rental counters, you can often use email or messaging instead. Keep your home SIM active for bank verification texts.
FAQ: eSIM for North America
Does one eSIM work in the USA, Canada and Mexico?
Yes. North America plans cover all three countries with one plan and switch between local networks automatically.
Does a North America eSIM work in Cuba?
No. Cuba is not part of North America plans. You need a plan that explicitly covers Cuba.
Is a North America eSIM worth it for a US-only trip?
Usually not. If you stay in the USA, a USA plan is often cheaper. The regional plan pays off when you cross borders.
Are Hawaii and Alaska included?
Generally yes, as they are part of the USA. Coverage is good in towns but limited in rural and remote areas.
Does it work on a cruise to Mexico?
In Mexican ports, yes. At sea, ships use their own maritime network, which is not covered by eSIM plans.