Bell Sim Card & eSIM – Detailed Guides for Tourists

Staying connected while traveling is essential for both work and play. This guide reviews Bell SIM card & eSIM and provides detailed recommendations suited for tourists visiting Canada. We’ll compare eSIM versus traditional SIM cards from Bell and then suggest alternative carriers with more tourism-friendly offerings.

By understanding the ins and outs of Bell SIM Card plans in Canada & eSIM, travelers can affordably enjoy reliable connectivity throughout their trip and without long-term commitments. Let’s explore the best ways for international visitors to stay connected on Canada’s mobile networks.

1. Quick facts about Bell

Bell Mobility is one of Canada’s largest mobile network operators, offering nationwide wireless service since 1986. Currently serving over 10 million subscribers, Bell operates extensive 4G LTE and 5G networks spanning most major metropolitan areas across the country.

• Third-largest telecommunications company in Canada: Provides internet, mobile, TV, and home phone services to consumers and businesses.
• Founded in 1986: One of the oldest telecommunications companies in the world.
• Headquarters in Montreal, Quebec: Operates across all Canadian provinces and territories.
• Part of BCE Inc.: A public company with Bell Canada as its main subsidiary.
• Known for Canada’s fastest internet and Wi-Fi: Offers various internet plans with speeds reaching up to 1.5 Gbps.

Bell’s networks cover major population centers well but roaming partnerships help deliver service in smaller towns and rural regions too. In total, through its owned brands Bell Mobility has established itself as a leading full-service provider meeting the connectivity and pricing requirements of Canadian consumers.

2. Canada Bell Coverage and Speed in Canada

Bell coverage and speed in Canada are among the best in the country. Bell claims to have the most extensive 4G network in Canada, covering over 99% of the population. 

2.1. Bell coverage in Canada

Bell’s network has been tested and rated as the fastest major city network in Canada by third parties like Opensignal, PCMag, J.D. Power, and Ookla. However, Rogers/Telus typically have better rural coverage by sharing towers. Bell also offers expanding 5G coverage.

Coverage and speed can vary by location, device, and plan. Rural and remote areas may have weaker signals. Not all devices support 5G/LTE or perform equally. Data caps or throttling after a limit can affect speeds. Check Bell’s coverage map and networks for your area and device.

2.2. Bell speed

In Opensignal’s latest report on mobile networks in Canada:

• Bell shared the top spot for Games Experience with Rogers and Telus, as their users saw no significant difference.
• Bell and Telus jointly won Download Speeds Experience at 75.2 Mbps, 13.7 Mbps faster than Rogers.

In Opensignal’s previous look at 5G networks in Canada:

• Bell solo led in 5G Download Speeds at 173.8 Mbps. This was 12.3% or 19 Mbps faster than Rogers. And 17.6% or 26 Mbps ahead of Telus.
• For key 5G categories across Canada’s regions: Bell, Rogers, and Telus are tied for first in at least three of six regions for Video, Live, Video Games, Voice Apps

So in summary – Bell has a strong network but tends to be pricier for consumers, while Rogers/Telus balances coverage with competitive plans. The choice depends on location/needs.

3. Bell Connectivity Options for Travelers to Canada

Here are a few connectivity options for travelers to Canada through Bell:

No matter which option you choose, be sure to unlock your phone before you travel to Canada. This will allow you to use a SIM card from any provider.

4. Best Bell SIM Cards for tourists & costs

Bell offers SIM cards/eSIMs for those who want to use their wireless services in Canada. As a telecom not focused on tourist customers, Bell does not seem to have a specific option for tourists visiting Canada.

While Bell has wide coverage, Bell SIM Card Canada policies are inconvenient and pricey for short-term use by tourists. Plans require setting up a Canadian account which involves ID verification and credit checks. Contracts are monthly so SIMs aren’t a good pay-as-you-go option for visitors. You can also buy a SIM card that costs ~ 7 USD and choose a monthly plan that suits your needs. If you buy Bell Monthly Plan you can get a physical SIM card free.

Here is the list of Bell SIM card plans in Canada with monthly plans:

While Bell does not have plans specifically tailored for tourists, the options listed above could still allow you to access Bell’s network during your visit. Though not entirely optimized for short-term travel, these plans offer data allotments that can be used for basic tasks like light web browsing and social media usage. However, there may be more travel-friendly options from other providers to compare as well.

5. Does Bell Canada support eSIM?

Yes, Bell offers Bell eSIM on supported devices. However, plan types require setting up a recurring Bell account with a Canadian address and ID documentation. This involves credit checks, contracts, and extended commitments that don’t cater well to short-term visitors.

Bell’s prepaid options also are expensive for tourists staying briefly. Using a Bell eSIM would require leaving the account/number active even after the trip. It’s difficult to purchase an eSIM plan temporarily without establishing residency.

Here are the Bell eSIM Plans and prices for anyone wanting to use Bell eSIM:

So in summary, while Bell does support eSIM technology, their plan structures are not suitable for tourists. 

Alternatives like eSIMs from canada-esim.com are better suited as they offer prepaid monthly options. Options are starting at just $9 for 3 days, up to 30-day packages – perfect no matter your trip length. Daily data allotments of 1-2GB let you navigate. Discover the easiest and most affordable way to enjoy reliable mobile connectivity!

6. Where can you buy a Bell SIM card & eSIM?

Whether you’re visiting or staying long-term in Canada, Bell is one of the major network providers you’ll want to consider. Here are some options for getting a Bell SIM card or eSIM for your trip:

6.1. Where to buy a Bell SIM for Canada

Here are some places where you can buy a Bell prepaid SIM card:

• Bell stores – Bell has its corporate stores located across Canada. These stores will have prepaid SIM cards available for purchase. You can check the list of Bell stores here.

• The Source by Bell – This is Bell’s electronics and accessories retail chain. Stores will carry Bell prepaid SIM card kits.

• Authorized dealers – Bell has agreements with other major wireless carriers and big box retailers to sell their products. Places like Rogers, Telus, Walmart, Best Buy, and Shoppers Drug Mart often have Bell prepaid SIMs.
• Online – You can purchase Bell prepaid SIM cards directly from the Bell website for delivery. Amazon also sells them.
• Major retailers – national chains like 7-Eleven, Circle K, Mac’s stores, and Shell gas stations sell SIM cards as a side business.

• Mobile kiosks – Malls and public spaces sometimes have independent mobile accessory kiosks selling various carrier SIM cards.
• Grey market – Sites like Kijiji, and eBay from private sellers (check for authenticity and activation support).

The best official retail options are Bell stores, The Source, and major national retailers/gas stations for availability, ease of purchase, and activation support.

6.2. Where to buy a Bell eSIM

Here are some options for buying a Bell eSIM:

• Direct from Bell website: You can purchase an eSIM plan or package directly from Bell.ca. This allows you to activate easily the eSIM profile online.
• At Bell store: Visit a Bell retail location to purchase and activate an eSIM plan. It can be set up on a compatible eSIM device by staff.
• Using the MyBell app: If you own an eligible smartphone, you’ll probably be able to register for Bell eSIM through the mobile app immediately without having to go into a store.
• Travel apps: Services like Canada-esim.com sell eSIM data passes valid on Bell’s network for tourists.

To sum up, the official website, MyBell app, and Bell stores are your best bets. It is necessary to first look at the Canada eSIM Compatible Devices List before switching your mobile plan. As long as the device you intend to use is eSIM compatible, that’s it.

Buying a prepaid SIM card or an eSIM card for Canada online before your trip may be a cheaper and more convenient option. There are some travel SIM cards and eSIM cards that offer coverage in Canada with reasonable prices and data bundles. You can check out Canada eSIM from canada-esim.com for the best deals:

7 days of LTE data from $17. eSIM delivered to your email – simply scan and roam Canada with no worries. Book now at canada-esim.com: 

Browse hassle-free for up to 15 days of high-speed LTE data for just $12:

7. How to activate Bell Canada SIM/eSIM

Once you’ve procured a Bell SIM card or eSIM, activating and using it on your device is straightforward. Here are the basic steps to get connected to the Bell network in Canada:

7.1. How to use Bell Canada SIM Card

Here are the basic steps to use a Bell Canada SIM card:

Step 1: Activate the SIM card. You can do this online at bell.ca/activate or by calling the activation number on the instruction sheet. You’ll need the SIM ID number.

Step 2: Insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone. Make sure the gold contacts are facing down, and cut off any extra plastic tabs.

Step 3: Power on your phone. After getting a new SIM from the Bell network, it might take you several minutes to register before you can make calls and use data.

Tips: Establish a Bell account online to monitor your plan, bills, usage, and value-added services such as voicemail. No accounts are needed for prepaid plans.

7.2. How to use Bell Canada eSIM

Here are the basic steps to set up and activate a Bell Canada eSIM:

Step 1: Go online to buy a Bell eSIM plan.

Step 2: During signup, give ID, address and credit check info.

Step 3: Download the MyBell app.

Step 4: Open the app and tap “Activate eSIM”.

Step 5: Go ahead, and scan the QR code to set everything up. From now on, your Bell eSIM number will work for calls, texts, and data.

If you’d rather have a step-by-step guide for installing Canada eSIM plans on major devices, we can provide that too. Take a look at our easy guides and videos on how to add eSIM on iPhone, Samsung or Google Pixel. Our Canada eSIM installation guide will help you get set up and connected.

8. Canada Bell Call & SMS rates

In Canada, the type of plan, add-on, or usage determines call and SMS rates at Bell. These rates are only approximate and change with time, so before using a pay-per-use service, please come back to check whether the figures here are current. Here is a summary of the current pay-per-use call & SMS rates for Bell Mobility:

9. Useful USSD Codes for Bell Canada SIM/eSIM

Here are the quick access codes to check your Bell balance:

One simple and convenient way to access your Bell balance is through the official mobile application MyBell, or by using the official Bell website. Here are the steps to launch and use the app:

• Checking Balance via MyBell App: On your device, start the MyBell app → Balance is at the bottom of the screen → touch this to display your balance and account details → See How: Checking your account balance.
• Via Bell Website: Click login to MyBell → Select Prepaid account.\ → Your balance and account details are displayed.

10. How to top-up Bell Canada SIM/eSIM

There are several convenient methods for topping up your Bell SIM/eSIM, both online and in person. The options include:

11. Alternatives to Bell Canada

The best options for travelers visiting Canada would be to look at other MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that offer reliable SIM cards and eSIM, such as:

• Koodo Mobile – Runs on the Telus network, providing reliable nationwide coverage. They offer prepaid options without contracts that are well-suited for travelers. Plans start at around $15 for limited data. Prepaid plans do not require a Canadian ID or credit check, just an online account registration.
• Public Mobile – Runs on Telus’ network. Offers cheap prepaid plans without contracts, including data-only eSIM options suitable for tablets/devices—activation via app.
• Canada eSIM Plans – Offers flexible short-term eSIM data plans on Telus/Koodo networks. Plans start from a few days up to 30 days. Easy digital activation. Sites like Canada-esim.com provide this option.

The above options don’t require a Canadian phone number or identity. They provide reliable connectivity without contracts better suited for temporary visitors than direct provider plans. Just check compatibility with your unlocked device.

12. FAQs

13. Final words

An eSIM option is offered by Bell but at first glance appears to offer convenience for tourists. To use it, however, requires opening a Canadian mobile account, supplying ID, and undergoing a credit check. This means that activation is unsuitable for short visits. Moreover, Bell doesn’t have any true pay-as-you-go plans–the cheapest option is $25/month. However, MVNO prepaid plans have no contracts, lower rates, and are more suited to travelers who won’t need phones for a long time. In sum, although Bell’s goal is to bring digital convenience, other carriers and virtual SIM vendors provide better-prepaid options for staying in Canada short term.