How to Buy a SIM Card at San Francisco Airport (SFO) for Tourists: Where and Price?

Harper Thomas

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Published: January 2025

This guide will show you where to buy a SIM card at San Francisco Airport, the price, and why eSIMs are a convenient alternative for travelers.

Are you landing in San Francisco and need reliable mobile internet? Buying a SIM card at San Francisco Airport is a quick way to stay connected. In this article, you’ll learn where to find SIM cards at SFO, the registration process, and pricing details. We’ll also introduce a convenient eSIM option as a better alternative to airport SIM cards. By the end, you’ll know the best choice for your travel needs!

I. How to get a SIM Card at San Francisco Airport (SFO)?

Getting a SIM card at San Francisco Airport is simple, and there are several convenient ways to do so:

• Order online before and collect at the airport: Pre-book your SIM card through a trusted provider, then pick it up at an airport kiosk or service desk upon arrival.
• Buy upon arrival: Head to one of the convenience stores or mobile shops in the arrivals area to purchase a SIM card on the spot.
• Buy an eSIM (if phone compatible): Download an eSIM instantly before or after landing, giving you immediate access to mobile data without needing a physical SIM.

II. Where to buy a SIM Card at San Francisco Airport (SFO)? 

TripTel store at San Francisco Airport 

At San Francisco Airport (SFO), you can find SIM cards conveniently in the arrivals hall of the International Terminal. The main store that sells prepaid SIM cards for tourists is TripTel Mobile Services.

• Location: The store is right in the arrivals hall, easily visible as you walk in.
• Opening Hours: TripTel Mobile Services is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

For added convenience, consider ordering a SIM card online and collecting it at the airport or using an eSIM if your phone supports it!

III. Do SIM card shops at SFO Airport open after midnight?

NO. The main store, TripTel Mobile Services, operates from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. If you arrive late at night, consider ordering a SIM card online in advance or using an eSIM, which can be activated anytime. This way, you can stay connected even if the shops are closed.

IV. The USA San Francisco Airport SIM card Price

At San Francisco Airport, you can choose from several SIM card options TripTel Mobile Services provides. Below is an overview of the available plans:

1. Lycamobile SIM Card Plans:

• 4 Weeks (6GB): $99 – Includes unlimited calls and texts in the USA and international calls to 75+ countries.
• 4 Weeks (12GB): $119 – Same features with more data for heavy users.
• 58 Days (60GB): $169 – Ideal for extended trips.
• 88 Days (60GB): $199 – Designed for longer stays with unlimited talk and text.

2. T-Mobile SIM Card Plans:

• 1 Week (6GB): $89 – Includes unlimited talk and text in the USA.
• 2 Weeks (12GB): $99 – Great for short-term visitors who need more data.
• 4 Weeks (12GB): $109 – For longer stays with moderate data use.
• Unlimited Data (2 Weeks): $119 – Best for travelers who need high-speed, unlimited data.
• Unlimited Data (4 Weeks): $139 – Maximum flexibility for heavy data users.

Data-Only Plans:

• 3GB (4G/5G): $79 – Expires in 4 weeks, suitable for light internet users.
• 6GB (4G/5G): $89 – Enough for casual browsing and social media.
• 12GB (4G/5G): $99 – Perfect for streaming and frequent internet use.

V. Registration Process on Buying a SIM card at San Francisco Airport

To buy a SIM card at San Francisco Airport, you will need:

• Passport: Required for identity verification.
• Unlocked Phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked to use the SIM.
• Payment Method: Both cash and cards are usually accepted.
• Contact Information: Some providers may ask for a local address or phone number.

The process can feel complicated, especially for tourists who prefer not to share personal details like a passport. Many travelers find this inconvenient and time-consuming.

A Simpler Solution

Avoid the hassle by purchasing an international SIM card online before your trip or opt for an eSIM. These options are quick, and no passport is needed for activation.

To use an eSIM, make sure:

• Your phone supports eSIM technology.
• You have internet access for activation (e.g., Wi-Fi at the airport).
• You purchase a plan from a trusted provider before or after landing.

This way, you can skip the paperwork and get connected instantly!

VI. eSIM at San Francisco Airport – Alternative to the USA SIM Cards

When getting an eSIM, you can either buy from local network operators or a trusted eSIM retailer. While both are good options, choosing an eSIM retailer like Gigago is faster and hassle-free. 

With over 1 million users worldwide, Gigago delivers your eSIM to your email in minutes, ready to activate with a simple QR code scan. We offer flexible local and multi-country plans with coverage in 190+ countries, ensuring smooth connectivity wherever you travel. No queues, no delays – just easy, reliable service!

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 San Francisco Airport

VIII. Conclusion

I hope you find this post helpful for choosing the best SIM card at San Francisco Airport. Whether you buy a physical SIM or opt for a hassle-free eSIM, staying connected during your trip is now easier than ever. Remember, eSIMs are a great choice to avoid long lines and paperwork, giving you instant access to mobile data. Safe travels!