This guide will show you where to find SIM card shops, their opening hours, prices, and how to register your card. We’ll also talk about eSIMs, a simple and hassle-free option for travelers. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get the best mobile connection for your trip.
How to Buy a SIM Card at Los Angeles Airport (LAX) for Tourists: Where and Price?
In this article, you will discover where to buy a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport, the prices, and even alternative options like eSIMs for staying connected during your trip.
If you’re planning to stay connected during your visit to the USA, getting a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport is one of the easiest solutions. This guide will show you the best places to buy a SIM card, the prices you can expect, and how the registration process works. You’ll also learn about eSIMs as a hassle-free alternative. Let’s dive in!
Highlights
- Buy SIM cards at LAX Currency Exchange, open 6:15 AM to 9:45 PM.
- eSIMs are faster and don’t need registration.
- Airport SIMs cost more; online or city options are cheaper.
In this article
I. How to get a SIM Card at Los Angeles Airport (LAX)?
Getting a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport (LAX) is straightforward, with several convenient options:
- Order Online Before Your Trip: Purchase a SIM card from trusted providers, have it delivered to your home, and insert it into your phone upon arrival at LAX for immediate use.
- Buy Upon Arrival: Look for SIM card kiosks or electronics stores in the arrivals area. You can buy a SIM card from major carriers like AT&T or T-Mobile.
- Buy an eSIM: If your phone supports eSIM technology, purchase an eSIM from a provider and activate it instantly, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.
Each method offers its own benefits, so choose the one that best suits your travel needs.
II. Where to buy a SIM Card at Los Angeles Airport (LAX)?
The most accessible place to buy a SIM card at LAX is the Currency Exchange Counter. These counters are located in the arrivals hall, near the Ground Transportation Exit and the Tourist Information Desk, making them easy to find.
They offer prepaid SIM cards from popular providers like T-Mobile, with plans that include unlimited data, free texting, and calls to most countries.
Tips:
- Prices at the Currency Exchange may be higher than buying elsewhere, such as in the city.
- Be prepared to pay for convenience at the airport, but the simplicity makes it a great choice for immediate connectivity.
- If you arrive during non-operating hours, consider activating an eSIM for instant access.
III. Do SIM card shops at LAX Airport open after midnight?
No. SIM card shops at LAX Airport DO NOT stay open after midnight. The main place to buy a SIM card, the Currency Exchange Counter, operates from 6:15 AM to 9:45 PM daily. If your flight arrives late at night, you won’t be able to purchase a SIM card at the airport. To avoid this issue, consider buying a SIM card online or using an eSIM before your trip.
IV. The USA Los Angeles Airport SIM card Price
At Los Angeles Airport (LAX), tourists can choose from two T-Mobile SIM card options. Both plans are valid for 4 weeks and offer different data and calling/texting features:
- 10GB Plan – 10GB of high-speed data, unlimited calls, and texts within the USA – $82.13 USD.
- Unlimited Plan – unlimited high-speed data, calls, and texts within the USA – $119.19 USD.
While convenient, airport prices are higher than buying a SIM card in the city. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, consider purchasing in Los Angeles city center or online before your trip.
V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport
When buying a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport, there are a few things you’ll need to prepare:
- Passport – for registration purposes.
- Unlocked Phone – to accept the new SIM card.
- Payment Method – most places accept credit or debit cards, but cash may not always be an option.
The process can feel a bit complicated, especially since it involves sharing personal information like your passport details. Many travelers prefer to avoid this.
A Simpler Option
To skip the hassle, buy an international SIM card online before your trip or use an eSIM. These options are quick, don’t require showing a passport, and let you connect as soon as you arrive.
What You Need for an eSIM:
- eSIM-Compatible Phone: Your phone must support eSIM technology.
- Internet Access: You’ll need the internet to download and activate the eSIM.
- Trusted Provider: Choose a reliable eSIM provider that offers good coverage in the USA.
Using an eSIM is an easy and stress-free way to stay connected without lengthy registration processes.
VI. eSIM at Los Angeles Airport – Alternative to the USA SIM Cards
When getting an eSIM, you have 2 simple options: purchase from local network operators or choose a trusted eSIM retailer. While both options work, buying from an eSIM retailer is often quicker and more convenient. No queues, no waiting – just a few clicks, and you’re ready to go.
One eSIM provider worth exploring is Gigago. Here’s why travelers around the world love it:
- Trusted by 1M+ users globally, making it a reliable choice.
- Delivers your eSIM directly to your email in minutes – no delays.
- Easy setup with a quick QR code scan – no tech knowledge needed.
- Offers a vast selection of local and multi-country eSIM plans for flexible travel.
- Supports eSIM coverage in 190+ countries and regions, ensuring you’re always connected.
For the USA, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 1 days with $1.90 . What is great about Gigago’s USA eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $1.90 – $96.90 .
Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are or how long your trip to the USA is. Gigago always has an option for you.
VII. FAQs about SIM cards at Los Angeles Airport
Can I buy a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport?
Yes, you can buy a SIM card at LAX, mainly from the Currency Exchange Counters located in the arrivals hall near the Ground Transportation Exit.
Are SIM card shops at LAX open 24/7?
No, SIM card shops at LAX are not open 24/7. The Currency Exchange Counter operates daily from 6:15 AM to 9:45 PM, so plan accordingly if your flight arrives late at night.
How much does a SIM card cost at Los Angeles Airport?
The prices range from $82.13 USD for a 10GB plan to $119.19 USD for unlimited high-speed data. Both options include unlimited calls and texts within the USA.
What do I need to buy a SIM card at Los Angeles Airport (LAX)?
You’ll need your passport, an unlocked phone, and a payment method (credit or debit card is preferred, as cash might not be accepted).
VIII. Conclusion
I hope this post helps you figure out the best way to get a SIM card at Los Angeles airport and stay connected during your trip. Buying at the airport is easy, but getting an eSIM or ordering a SIM card online before your trip can be quicker and cheaper. Whatever you choose, staying connected in the USA is simple.