Can I buy a 3G iPad without a carrier plan?

Yes, they are sold without a carrier plan.

Yes, but you will need a plan to use it on a 3G network.

You're welcome, Jeff. Enjoy your iPad.

In the US, the 3G/LTE iPad comes locked to Verizon or AT&T. That does not mean you have to buy a data plan at the time of purchase, but it does mean that when you do select a data plan you're locked to the carrier you chose at the time of purchase.

As per the information from the Apple site. The iPd is NOT locked to a carrier when you purchase it. The SIM card can be changed when you travel to other countries. See the quote from Apple below.

"Both the AT&T and Verizon model of iPad can roam worldwide on GSM/UMTS networks. In countries without compatible 4G LTE networks, the new iPad will operate on GSM network technologies such as HSPA+ and DC-HSDPA. When you travel internationally, you can use a micro-SIM card from a local carrier."