Buy sim card in San Francisco Airport

Question

Hi when I arrive in San Francisco I hope to buy a sim card. Can I buy it in the airport? I hope to have a number which I can use in US.

Many thanks.

Answer

Yes, you can buy a SIM card at San Francisco International Airport (SFO), though the options are somewhat limited compared to stores in the city. Several major carriers and travel SIM providers have kiosks or vending machines in the airport terminals where you can purchase a prepaid SIM card that works in the U.S.

Options at the Airport:

AT&T: There are AT&T kiosks and authorized retailers in some terminals. They sell prepaid SIM cards and data plans for both short-term and long-term use.
T-Mobile / Metro by T-Mobile: You may find a T-Mobile store or vending options in the terminals for prepaid SIM cards. T-Mobile offers plans with unlimited talk, text, and data in the U.S.
International / Travel SIM vendors: Some kiosks or vending machines sell SIM cards specifically for travelers, often with preloaded U.S. numbers and data.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Make sure your phone is unlocked before attempting to use a U.S. SIM card.
Ask about activation; some SIM cards require you to activate them online or via a phone call before use.
Prepaid SIM cards usually come with a limited data package; check if additional data can be purchased if needed.
If you cannot find a kiosk that suits your needs at the airport, you can also purchase SIM cards at many convenience stores, Target, or electronics stores in San Francisco after you leave the airport.

Overall, buying a SIM card at SFO is convenient if you want connectivity immediately upon arrival, though prices may be slightly higher than in retail stores in the city. Ensure you have your passport handy, as some carriers may ask for identification when activating a SIM card.

Buy sim card in San Francisco Airport

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