How to buy a sim card in the United States (2022)
A handy guide on how to buy a US sim card, including major mobile network operators and prices for prepaid plans.
Can I use Revolut in the USA?
Planning a trip to the USA for work, study or play? You’ll need to work out the most convenient and cost-efficient way to spend in US dollars while you’re there.
If you have an account with Revolut or are considering opening one, you’ll want to know whether it works in the States.
Read on, as we’ve put together a handy guide covering everything you need to know about using Revolut in the USA.
And while you’re researching spending solutions, make sure to check out Wise. The Wise card lets you spend in the local currency in 175 countries, with your pounds automatically converted at the mid-market rate whenever you spend.
Can I use my Revolut card in the USA?
Yes, you can use your UK-issued Revolut card in the USA.
It should work everywhere that Visa and Mastercard payments are accepted¹, including stores and shopping malls, gas stations, restaurants, bars, hotels and online too.
Is USD supported for spending?
The Revolut card supports spending and ATM withdrawals in US dollars.
You’ll have two options to use your card while in the USA. The first is to exchange GBP to USD in your Revolut account before you go, which involves a currency conversion.
Alternatively, you can just spend and your card will automatically convert the currency to USD at the best available rate².
How much does it cost to use a Revolut card in the USA?
Aside from the monthly cost of your chosen Revolut plan, there are some other fees you should know about in relation to the Revolut card. It all depends where and when you use your card while in the US.
| Transaction | Revolut fee³ |
|---|---|
| Additional merchant surcharge fees (for paying by card) | Set by the merchant (if applicable) |
| Currency exchange transactions above £1,000 | 0.5% |
| Currency exchanges on weekends | 1% |
| ATM withdrawals over £200 (or more than 5 withdrawals) | 2%⁴ |
There’s also the exchange rate to consider. Revolut uses the mid-market exchange rate, but you’ll need to be careful if converting currency (or spending in a currency not in your Revolut account) at the weekends - as there’s a 1% charge.
Plus, you could pay a fee if you convert over £1,000 or take out more than £200 from a US ATM.
Another thing to watch out for is spending in your home currency. If you choose to be charged in GBP, the merchant may apply their own exchange rate to the transaction³. This rate could have a mark-up on top, which makes the purchase more expensive overall for you.
Can I get a Revolut account in the USA?
Thinking of staying in the USA for a while? You might be thinking of opening a Revolut account there, if you don’t have one already.
The good news is that you can open a Revolut USA account. The plans are similar to the UK (although pricing varies), and so is the process for signing up. You’ll need to download the Revolut app and have some ID handy. You can find out more here.
A great alternative for low-cost spending in the USA - the Wise card
While you’re comparing options for holiday spending, make sure to check out the Wise card.
This powerful contactless card can be used for shopping, spending and ATM withdrawals in 175 countries, including the USA.
With the Wise card, you can start spending in USD from the moment you land. Your pounds will automatically be converted to dollars at the mid-market exchange rate, for just a small conversion fee⁵. Or if you already have USD in your Wise account, there are no fees to pay.
What’s more, Wise charges no fees for international ATM withdrawals up to £200. So, that’s cash sorted if you need it.
⁵ Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing: Only Pay for What You Use for the most up-to-date pricing and fee information.
Sources used:
- Revolut Help - What Currencies are Supported for Spending?
- Revolut Help - Which Currency Balance Will Be Deducted For Spending?
- Revolut Help - What Fees Will I Be Charged for Making Card Payments?
- Revolut Standard Fees
- Wise - terms and conditions & pricing
Sources last checked on date: 29-Nov-2022
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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