Most large US airports have free Wi-Fi. Look for a network with the airport's name. Some ask you to watch a short ad or accept terms in the browser first. If the page does not open, open any website and it will appear.
Use the Wi-Fi to:
Message family that you arrived.
Download your I-94 at i94.cbp.dhs.gov.
Open Uber or Lyft, or check the train or bus to the city.
Download an offline map of your city in Google Maps.
Public Wi-Fi is not private. Do not log in to your bank on it unless the bank app is the only way.
Three ways to have data after the airport
Roaming with your home SIM. Easy but often expensive. Check your home plan before you fly.
An eSIM. An eSIM is a SIM card inside your phone that you download with a QR code or app. Travel eSIMs give data for a few days or weeks. Buy and install it before you fly, then switch it on when you land. Your phone must be unlocked (not tied to one carrier) and support eSIM.
A US phone number. You will need one soon for banks, jobs and apps. Prepaid plans are sold at the airport, at carrier stores and at Walmart or Target. See Choosing a phone plan without an SSN.
Many banks and apps at home send codes by SMS. Keep your home SIM active if you can, or move those accounts to an app-based code before you leave. A dual-SIM phone can hold both numbers.
Buying a phone plan at the first kiosk without comparing. Prepaid plans with no contract are fine for the first month.
A locked phone. If your phone is locked to a carrier at home, an eSIM or US SIM will not work. Ask your home carrier to unlock it before you leave.
Losing access to email. Your I-20, offer letter and booking codes are there. Save offline copies.