Stay Connected in Billings
Network coverage, costs, and options
Connectivity Overview
Billings offers solid connectivity for travelers, with reliable 4G LTE coverage throughout the city and expanding 5G networks in downtown areas. As Montana's largest city, you'll find good coverage from all major US carriers - Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile - with speeds typically ranging from 20-50 Mbps for data. The city's infrastructure is well-developed compared to rural Montana, so connectivity shouldn't be a major concern for most travelers. However, if you're planning to explore Yellowstone or other remote areas around Billings, coverage can become spotty quickly once you leave the urban area. Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes downtown, but having your own data connection is essential for navigation and staying connected while exploring the region.
Get Connected Before You Land
We recommend Airalo for peace of mind. Buy your eSIM now and activate it when you arrive—no hunting for SIM card shops, no language barriers, no connection problems. Just turn it on and you're immediately connected in Billings.
Network Coverage & Speed
Verizon generally provides the strongest coverage in Billings and surrounding Montana areas, making it the preferred network for travelers planning to venture beyond the city. Their network offers reliable 4G LTE speeds of 25-40 Mbps downtown, with 5G Ultra Wideband available in select areas near downtown and the airport. AT&T follows closely with good urban coverage and speeds around 20-35 Mbps, plus decent 5G coverage in business districts. T-Mobile has improved significantly in recent years, offering competitive speeds of 30-50 Mbps in the city center, though coverage can drop off more quickly in rural areas. All carriers provide solid coverage at Billings Logan International Airport and major highways leading into the city. If you're staying primarily in Billings for business or urban tourism, any carrier will work well. However, for exploring Yellowstone, Glacier National Park, or Montana's backcountry, Verizon's extended rural coverage gives it a clear advantage over other networks.
How to Stay Connected
eSIM
eSIM is the smart choice for most travelers to Billings, offering immediate connectivity without hunting for SIM card shops or dealing with activation hassles. You can purchase and activate an eSIM plan before departure, ensuring you're connected the moment you land at Billings Logan Airport. Providers like Airalo offer US plans starting around $4.50 for 1GB, with larger plans providing better value - typically $15-25 for 5-10GB lasting 30 days. The convenience factor is huge: no physical card to lose, no store visits, and you can keep your primary number active for calls. eSIM also works seamlessly across different US cities if you're on a multi-stop trip. The main downside is cost - you'll pay 20-40% more than local SIM cards. However, for stays under a month, the time savings and peace of mind usually justify the premium, especially considering how quickly you can burn through data exploring Montana's attractions.
Local SIM Card
Local prepaid SIM cards offer the most affordable data rates in Billings, available at Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and carrier stores throughout the city. Verizon prepaid plans start around $30-40 for unlimited data (with throttling after 15-22GB), while AT&T and T-Mobile offer similar pricing. You'll need an unlocked phone and valid ID for purchase. T-Mobile's prepaid tourist plans can be particularly good value at $30 for 21 days of unlimited data. The activation process is usually straightforward, though you might wait 10-30 minutes for setup and may need staff assistance. Local SIM cards also give you a US phone number, which can be helpful for making local reservations or calls. The main drawbacks are the upfront time investment, potential language barriers during setup, and the risk of getting a defective card or incompatible plan. For stays longer than a month or if you're on an extremely tight budget, local SIM cards provide the best value.
Comparison
eSIM wins on convenience and immediate connectivity - you're online instantly without store visits or setup hassles. Local SIM cards cost 30-40% less but require time and effort to purchase and activate. International roaming from your home carrier is the most expensive option, often $10-15 per day, but keeps your regular number active. For most week-long trips, eSIM offers the best balance of cost and convenience. Budget travelers on month-long stays should consider local SIM cards for significant savings.
Our Recommendations
First-time visitors: Go with eSIM from Airalo - you'll have connectivity immediately upon landing, avoiding airport SIM shop queues and potential activation issues. The convenience is worth the modest premium when you're focused on exploring Billings and nearby attractions. Budget travelers: If you're on an extremely tight budget and staying 2+ weeks, local SIM cards save $15-30. However, for most budget-conscious travelers, eSIM's time savings and guaranteed connectivity make it worthwhile - you can start using maps and booking accommodations immediately. Long-term stays (1+ months): Local SIM cards make financial sense for extended stays, offering better rates and the flexibility to add more data as needed. Visit a carrier store for the best plan options. Business travelers: eSIM is essential - immediate connectivity, dual SIM capability to keep your business line active, and no time wasted on activation. The premium cost is negligible compared to your time value and the need for reliable connectivity.
Our Top Pick: Airalo
For convenience, price, and safety, we recommend Airalo. Purchase your eSIM before your trip and activate it upon arrival—you'll have instant connectivity without the hassle of finding a local shop, dealing with language barriers, or risking being offline when you first arrive. It's the smart, safe choice for staying connected in Billings.
Exclusive discounts: 15% off for new customers • 10% off for return customers