Cellular connectivity is essential while traveling internationally. When making a trip to Canada in terms of staying connected, you need to procure a Canadian SIM card. The market is flooded with providers of diverse eSIM solutions including voice/text, data-only, among many others. Let us simplify the process.

Here is all you need to understand on how to select the perfect Canada SIM card before your trip. We will then compare network coverage, plan highlights, pricing, etc. Eventually, you will have what it takes to provide the necessary SIM for your smartphone and your holiday plan.

CANADA SIM Card

1. Should I buy a new SIM card for my Canada trip

buy canada sim card

You may be deciding how best to stay connected via your mobile device. Several options exist – let’s explore your choices: Whether you use your current plan internationally or purchase a local SIM, factors like coverage, costs, and features vary. This overview compares solutions for accessing Canadian networks so you can select the most suitable solution: 

Option Pros Cons Budget
Local SIM card No roaming charges, fast and reliable internet coverage, easy to top up Might need to unlock the phone, might lose your home phone number, might pay extra for international calls and texts ~ 7 USD for a SIM card, ~ 22 USD for a 30-day plan with 1GB of data
Roaming with home network Keep your home phone number, and avoid switching SIM cards Can be very expensive, might have limited internet coverage or speed, and might experience unexpected charges Depends on the home carrier and plan, e.g. 10 USD per day for an International Day Pass with AT&T
Public WiFi hotspots Widely available, often free or cheap Can be slow or unreliable, can be insecure or risky, can be inconvenient Free or low cost, e.g. ~ 4 USD per day for Shaw Go WiFi
Portable WiFi device Own secure and reliable internet connection, share with multiple devices or people, control data usage and budget Have to carry extra device and charger, have to pay for rental fee and shipping cost, might have limited battery life or internet coverage Depends on the rental platform and plan, e.g. 8.99 USD per day for unlimited data with Skyroam

Overall, getting a Canada SIM or Canada eSIM are likely the most cost-effective way to stay connected if you need reliable mobile access during your entire trip. But using WiFi where available and your existing plan for occasional use may suffice for some travelers on shorter trips.

2. Canada SIM Card types – which one is the best for tourists

There are a few different types of SIM cards available for visitors to Canada – physical SIM cards and eSIMs:

Type Availability Compatibility Advantages Disadvantages Budget
Physical SIM card Canadian carriers or online providers Most phones Local phone number, mobile data, easy to top up Might need to unlock the phone, might lose your home phone number, might pay high prices for data and roaming Depends on the provider and plan, e.g. ~ 7 USD for a SIM card, ~ 22 USD for a 30-day plan with 1GB of data
Digital SIM card (eSIM) Online providers eSIM-enabled phones Keep home phone number, convenient and flexible, multiple numbers on the same device Not supported by all phones and carriers, might have limited options for eSIM plans in Canada Depends on the provider and plan, e.g. 1 GB per day for Canada eSIM 3-day plan for 9 USD with Canada-esim.com

Key factors like the number of portability, coverage, and included services vary between options. Consider your priorities – do you want full integration or to supplement existing service? An eSIM may suit travel needs while keeping you reachable internationally.

3. How much data is enough for a Prepaid tourist SIM card for Canada

The amount of data you need while traveling in Canada depends largely on how you plan to use your phone. As a general guide:

Data Allowance Suitable Usage Type Trip duration Internet user type Approximate Cost
1GB Basic browsing, messaging, map lookups. No streaming music or video, or using social media apps that consume a lot of data. Rely on WiFi networks as much as possible. Short trip (less than a week) Low internet user $15-20
3GB Lighter streaming, social media, navigation, photo backups. Look for WiFi networks whenever possible. Medium trip (one to two weeks) Moderate internet user $25-35
5GB Moderate app usage, browsing, HD streaming occasionally Long trip (more than two weeks) Moderate to high internet user $35-45
10GB or more Almost any online activity. Extensive streaming, downloading, gaming, tethering Any trip duration High internet user $50-60

Recommendations:

  • For leisure travel, 3-5GB is usually enough for attractions, directions, and photos.
  • For remote work or relying heavily on the phone, 10GB+ plans ($60-70) provide comfortable headroom for business tasks, client communication, and presentations from the cloud.
  • Most tourists sticking to WiFi areas can stay connected with 3-5GB without issues. 
  • Business travelers or those in remote locations may prefer larger, sharable data plans for connectivity needs.

4. How much does a SIM card for Canada cost

At the moment, Canadian carriers do not have any special tourist’s packages consisting of physical SIM cards as well as eSIM. Hence, the best suited alternative option for the Canadian visitors would be the monthly plans. Below are the monthly plans offered by the three major carriers in Canada:

Operator Plans Approx. Price (USD) Local SMS Local Minutes Data Approx. Cost (USD)
Rogers Nationwide Talk & Text Plan $11 Unlimited SMS/MMS 100 minutes - $22
Nationwide Talk & Text Plan $18 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited - $25
Nationwide Talk, Text & Data Plan $25 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited 1 GB $37
Nationwide Talk, Text & Data Plan $33 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited 5 GB $40
Nationwide Talk, Text & Data Plan $40 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited 10 GB $48
Telus Nationwide Talk & Text Plan $11 Unlimited SMS/MMS 100 nationwide minutes - $22
Nationwide Talk & Text Plan $18 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited - $29
Nationwide Talk, Text & Data Plan $25 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited 1 GB $37
Nationwide Talk, Text & Data Plan $33 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited 5 GB $44
Nationwide Talk, Text & Data Plan $40 Unlimited SMS/MMS Unlimited 10 GB $51
Bell (Monthly Plan) Basic 35 $25 Unlimited Unlimited - $25
Promo 60 $55 Unlimited Unlimited 60 GB of non-shareable data. $55
Essential 120 $63 Unlimited Unlimited 120 GB of shareable data $63
Ultimate 150 - Can/U.S/MEX $74 Unlimited Unlimited calling in Canada.U.S./Mexico 150 GB of shareable data Unlimited in Canada/U.S./Mexico $74

5. Canada eSIM – Altenative to Physical SIM Cards

There are several good alternatives to the major Canada SIM cards that can provide significant cost savings without compromising too much on network coverage and quality. For those primarily needing mobile data without talk or text, many eSIM providers offer low-cost data-only plans or Talk Text, and Data eSIM plans that can be activated directly on your device without a physical SIM card:

Type Availability Compatibility Advantages Disadvantages Budget
Data-only eSIM plan Online providers eSIM-enabled phones Cheaper and simpler than talk, text, and data plans, internet access without calls or texts, use apps to communicate over the internet No local phone number, no calls or texts, might need internet access to activate eSIM Depends on the provider and plan, e.g. 1 GB per day for Canada eSIM 3-day plan for 9 USD with Canada-esim.com
Talk, text, and data eSIM plan Online providers or Canadian carriers eSIM-enabled phones More expensive and complex than data-only plans, internet access with calls and texts, local Canadian number, use apps to communicate over the internet Might pay high prices for calls and texts, might need internet access to activate eSIM Depends on the provider and plan, e.g. 9.99 USD per day for unlimited talk, text, and data with GigSky

In conclusion, unless you need to swap SIMs between devices, a Canadian eSIM data plan would likely be the most convenient option for international visitors looking to stay connected during their travels.

Get affordable LTE data with a Canada eSIM from Canada-esim.com. We offer flexible plans starting from just $10 for 5GB valid for 3 days. Sign up today and enjoy fast, worry-free connectivity throughout your entire trip!

Stay connected in Canada for 3 days with affordable LTE data. Get the Canada eSIM 3-day plan from Canada-esim.com starting at just $9 for 5GB: 

Canada eSIM plan for 3 days

Need mobile data for a full week in Canada? Get the Canada eSIM 7-day plan from Canada-esim.com with up to 20GB for as low as $18: 

Canada eSIM plan for 7 days

Get affordable LTE data coverage with the Canada eSIM 10-day plan from Canada-esim.com. Plans start at just $22 for 5GB valid for 10 days: 

Canada eSIM plan for 10 days

6. Where to buy a Canada SIM Card?

Make sure to get a local SIM card for calls, texts, and data. There are two options – an eSIM built into your device or a physical SIM chip inserted into your phone. Both allow tapping into Canada’s cellular networks.

6.1. Buy Canada eSIM plans

  • Online purchase before the trip from providers’ websites. A good option for seamless activation on arrival but requires a compatible phone. 
  • Major Canadian providers offer in-store eSIM activation in major airports/cities. 

Choose the best Canada eSIM data plan and get connected wherever you travel in Canada from Canada-esim.com. Stay online without worrying about roaming fees – say goodbye to expensive roaming charges and switch to our affordable nationwide plans starting at just $9.

Stay online for up to 15 days with flexible data packages from 5GB up to 20GB daily starting from only $12.50: 

Canada eSIM plan for 15 days

Canada eSIM 30 days plan provides generous data packages from 2GB up to 30GB daily starting from just $13: 

Canada eSIM plan for 30 days

6.2. Buy a physical Canada SIM Card

Here are a few options for obtaining a physical SIM card to use in Canada:

  • Buy a physical SIM online before your trip. Websites like canadiansim.com sell prepaid SIM card Canada from carriers and deliver them to locations in Canada. Saves time on arrival but runs the risk of damage/loss.
  • Purchase SIM at Canadian airport vending machines/stores upon landing. The most convenient places are airport stores on arrival at major Canadian airports like Toronto Pearson, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. Convenient but prices may be higher without research. You can discover all of the available SIM card choices that you can find at airports in Canada here.
Fido kiosk Toronto Airport
Fido kiosk at Toronto Airport
  • Find retailers like convenience stores, and phone stores in cities/towns. Wide availability but takes time away from sightseeing. Major Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary offer SIM cards at various locations.
bell store
Bell store

For international travelers, an eSIM plan booked online before your trip ensures easy cellular connectivity upon arrival. This allows you to download the profile upon arrival and bypass any physical SIM issues or delays in finding a retailer. Buying a physical SIM at the airport is also convenient if needed.

For domestic travelers, purchasing online, ordering for delivery before your trip, or using a provider’s in-airport activation ensures you’re ready to explore Canada immediately. Only purchase from third parties in city centers if other options don’t fit your schedule.

Doing research and making advanced arrangements is the most hassle-free and cost-effective way to get a Canadian SIM Card as a visitor. An eSIM provides excellent accessibility.

7. How to use Canada eSIM

Here are the basic steps to use an eSIM on your phone when traveling in Canada:

1. Check if your phone supports eSIM. Most recent iPhones and Samsung Galaxies do. You can check if your device is compatible with the Canada eSIM Compatible Devices List. 

2. Purchase an eSIM plan from providers. They also provide an affordable data-only package.

3. Receive activation QR code via email after purchase. Scan the QR code to download the eSIM profile and Follow the prompts to activate the service.

You will get an activation QR code straight to your mail once you make a purchase. Download the eSIM profile by scanning the QR code and follow the instructions for activation.

To get more information on the step by step way you will install your purchased Canada eSIM profile get the installation guide from Canada-esim.com.

8. Best mobile operators for Canada sim card

The top carriers in Canada are Rogers, Telus, Bell, and Freedom Mobile which provide full-service plans involving 5G access, cover all areas of Canada, and support to customers. These service providers come with various packages and options to meet differing requirements and pay capacities.

Canada has a number of MVNOS that piggy back on the networks of the larger operators. They provide cheap packages with minimal benefits and limited data allocations. Among the MVNOs, there is Chatr Mobile, Fido, Koodo Mobile, Lucky Mobile, PC Mobile, Petro-Canada Mobility, Public Mobile, and Virgin Plus.

Here is a brief overview of each major operator:

  1. Bell – Largest network covering 97% of the land. Full-service plans, 5G access, unlimited options. Subsidiaries include Lucky Mobile and Virgin Mobile.
  2. Telus – Network covers 97% with full-service plans, 5G, and unlimited data. Subsidiaries are Koodo Mobile and Public Mobile.
  3. Rogers – Network covers 96% with full plans, 5G, unlimited. Subsidiaries include Chatr Mobile, Fido Mobile, Petro-Canada Mobility, and Cityfone.
  4. Freedom Mobile – Regional operator in major cities. Very cheap plans with unlimited talk/data but limited coverage. Offers phone financing.
  5. MVNOs – Resell bandwidth of major carriers. Popular options include Lucky Mobile, Virgin Mobile, Koodo Mobile, Public Mobile, Chatr Mobile, and Fido Mobile. Fido offers generous data plans, Spotify premium, and phone financing.

So in summary, Bell, Telus, and Rogers have nationwide coverage while Freedom and MVNOs offer cheaper plans for major city usage.

9. Tips for saving data for Canada SIM

Here are some tips for saving data when using a prepaid SIM card in Canada:

  • Turn off automatic app updates and download larger updates only over WiFi. 
  • Disable auto-play of videos on websites and apps. Play only when needed to save streaming data.
  • Adjust streaming quality in video apps to lower resolutions to use less bandwidth.
  • Use offline Google Maps to download map areas for offline navigation instead of using data.
  • Avoid frequent social media scrolling and picture/video sharing which can use significant data in the background. 
  • Turn off location services for apps when not needed for directions to prevent constant location updates. 
  • Disable carrying unused apps running in the background which may download data.
  • Use WiFi networks wherever possible for large downloads rather than mobile data. 
  • Consider downloading audio and ebooks onto your device before the trip for offline use.
  • Limit browser page refreshes and reopen sites directly instead of through links/searches.
  • Track data usage through your phone settings to monitor the remaining allowance.

Being mindful of data usage helps stretch that prepaid SIM further when traveling in Canada.

10. FAQs about Canada SIM Card

Can I use my SIM card outside of Canada?

No, prepaid SIM cards purchased in Canada will only work within Canada. The service is deactivated once you leave Canada.

How do I know if my device is unlocked? 

Check with your carrier or phone maker. Unlocked phones work on any network. Locked phones only work on one carrier and need to be paid off to unlock. 

Which carriers have good coverage in Canada?

The three major carriers are Rogers, Bell, and Telus. They all have extensive LTE networks across cities and most travel routes. Region-based MVNOs also piggyback off these networks.

Can I change my SIM plan if I need more data?

Yes, most providers allow you to upgrade or downgrade your plan online if your data needs to change during your trip. Fees may apply.

How do I top up my prepaid balance? 

You can typically top up online via credit card or buy physical top-up cards from convenience stores and pay them against your account.

What payment methods do Canadian carriers accept?

Major carriers accept credit, and debit cards and interact e-transfers from most countries. Always check if additional deposits are needed for non-Canadian payment methods.

Do Canadian SIMs support international calling? 

Plans usually don’t include international calls/texts but you can add packages to call back home for an extra fee on top of the regular plan cost.

11. Conclusion

To sum up, if you want good coverage, local phone numbers, and data plans, get yourself a Canada SIM card. Prepaid SIM prices, however, are high compared to other countries. Considering coverage in your local area, select a provider/plan that matches your requirements and budget. A Canada sim card must be used to ensure connection regardless of the length of the trip.