02/14/2025
Staying Connected in Orlando – The Best Mobile Phone Options
Planning a trip to sunny Orlando? Whether you’re hitting the theme parks, exploring the shops, or relaxing by the pool, staying connected is important – especially when you need Google Maps, checking queue times, or uploading those magical Disney photos.
But, figuring out how to get mobile service in the USA can be a bit of a minefield. Here’s a quick guide to help you stay connected without racking up a huge phone bill.
1. Using Your UK Mobile Provider – Roaming Costs
Before you travel, check with your mobile provider about their roaming charges in the USA.
• O2, Vodafone, EE, and Three all offer roaming packages, but they can be pricey.
• Some networks charge £6-£7 a day just to use your UK plan in the States.
• If you’re staying for more than a week, this can quickly add up.
If you only need occasional data for maps and the odd WhatsApp message, this might work – but if you want to stream, browse, and stay online all day, a local option is often cheaper.
2. Buying a US SIM Card
A popular option for British visitors is buying a SIM card for your phone once you arrive.
Here’s how it works:
• Your phone needs to be unlocked to accept a SIM from another provider. Check with your UK network before you travel.
• You can pick up a SIM card from places like:
• Walmart 🛒 – They have a big choice of SIM cards and prepaid plans, often with better deals than the airport.
• Target 🎯 – Another great option with a variety of prepaid SIMs.
• CVS Pharmacy – Convenient, with SIMs often near the tills.
• Best Buy – Good for SIMs and mobile accessories.
• Gas Stations (7-Eleven, Circle K)⛽ – Some stock prepaid SIMs, especially T-Mobile.
• Orlando Airport (MCO) – Handy for a quick SIM when you land, though prices can be higher.
Popular prepaid SIM brands:
• T-Mobile – Great coverage in Orlando and easy to set up.
• AT&T – Good for data-heavy users and families.
• Verizon – Reliable but sometimes pricier for tourists.
You can usually get a prepaid plan with unlimited data, calls, and texts for around $40-$50 (about £30-£40) for a month. This often works out cheaper than paying daily roaming fees.
3. eSIM – Easy and Digital
If your phone is compatible (most newer models like iPhones and Samsungs are), you can get an eSIM before you even leave the UK:
• Providers like Airalo and Holafly offer eSIM packages for the USA.
• You buy online, download the eSIM, and activate it when you land.
• Prices are similar to physical SIMs, but it’s all done digitally – no need to swap out your UK SIM.
This is a great option if you want the convenience of being connected as soon as you land.
4. Free WiFi in Orlando (Especially Disney!)
The good news is, Orlando is WiFi-friendly, and you can get online without using data in many places:
• Disney Parks & Resorts 🏰 – Free WiFi throughout, including all theme parks and hotels.
• Universal Orlando 🎢 – Free WiFi in the parks and CityWalk area.
• Shopping Malls 🛍️ – Most major malls like Florida Mall and Premium Outlets offer free WiFi.
• Restaurants & Cafes ☕🍔 – Places like Starbucks, McDonald’s, and many other restaurants offer free WiFi.
If you’re mainly at Disney and just need occasional internet elsewhere, WiFi might be all you need – but it’s still good to have mobile data for emergencies and when you’re on the go.
Top Tip:
If you decide to buy a US SIM, bring your passport when purchasing it – some stores require ID to activate a SIM card.
Final Thoughts
✅ For short trips, a roaming package from your UK provider might be easiest.
✅ For longer stays, or if you need a lot of data, a US SIM or eSIM is often better value.
✅ Either way, Disney’s free WiFi will keep you online while enjoying the magic of the parks!
Happy holidays – and stay connected!
Have you used a US SIM in Orlando before? Or got a favourite eSIM provider? Drop your tips in the comments for fellow travellors