In the post-pandemic era, travel has regained its popularity. But among travel expenses, it’s the exorbitant cost of roaming that dissuades individuals. Staying connected while traveling abroad used to be costly. However, companies have found more convenient solutions for travelers and tourists.
eSIM is the go-to choice for savvy travelers who don’t want to look for local SIM card stores upon arrival. Besides, searching for those stores can be a hassle. And travelers dispose of the physical SIM cards at the end of the trip. However, eSIMs offer many advantages such as cost-efficiency. Their smartphones also turn into dual SIM devices during the trip.
eSIM providers, offering global coverage, are readily available. For those traveling to Canada, numerous providers are ready to cater to your device’s needs. This article will provide you with the information needed to get an eSIM for your trip to Canada.
An eSIM for Canada
An eSIM is also known as an electronic SIM. It is the latest technology to access the internet without compromising a phone’s design or functionality. This virtual SIM card integrates seamlessly into the device, making it ideal for travelers. It enables them to connect to the web, access online applications, maps, and more. This is all thanks to the cellular data plan from chosen providers.
The advantage of eSIMs lies in the providers’ partnerships with various cellular operators, enhancing network accessibility. It ensures that people who avail the Canada travel eSIM can use different networks. They can freely utilize their respective networks without unexpected fees or extra charges. With the adoption of eSIM technology, costly roaming fees become a thing of the past.
Advantages and Benefits of Having a Canadian eSIM
In the past, tourists and travelers commonly looked for local SIM card stores upon arrival at the airports. However, eSIMs have completely transformed this scenario, and here’s why:
- Tourists can buy it in the comfort of their homes or their current area. This saves significant time and offers a convenient connection for future travels.
- Travelers don’t need to have a dual-SIM phone or remove their current SIM card. They can keep two numbers on their phones at the same time.
- eSIMs offer a more affordable alternative to international roaming plans.
- eSIMs are safer to use than physical SIM cards since they won’t be damaged over time.
- Upon arrival at the airport, travelers have instant internet access.
In Canada, tourists might sometimes find it challenging to connect to the internet. They may also encounter a language barrier depending on where they go. The common languages used in the country are either English or French. An eSIM addresses this issue effectively, ensuring connectivity regardless of location.
Choosing the Best eSIM Provider for Canadian Travel
The definition and advantages of using an eSIM have been laid out. The article will now discuss how to choose the best eSIM provider for Canadian travel. These are the factors to consider when choosing an eSIM provider.
- Coverage: eSIM providers boast of their coverage. But it’s important to research it since it will affect your connection. It should be using a good network in Canada.
- Data plan: Think of how much data the individual needs. According to travelers, about 10GB is enough when traveling around Canada. But this can go higher or lower depending on how much is often used by the individual.
- Speed: This might be obvious but not all eSIM providers offer the same internet speed. If the traveler is looking for a speedy connection, providers with 5G offers are the way to go.
- Price: eSIM plan prices may vary so it’s best to set a budget when choosing a provider. Travelers can compare different options so they’d know which will give the best value.
Activating the eSIM in Canada
eSIM on Apple iPhone
For Apple iPhone, travelers can activate their eSIM by going to the Cellular/Mobile Data under Settings. Choose Add a new plan then scan the QR code provided. They must select the respective cellular data plan and then activate Data roaming. Other providers might send a system notification and travelers will need to add a name. After that, they can set it as the default line for data.
eSIM on Android
For Android phones, start by going to Settings and choosing Networks and Internet. Go to Connections where travelers will find the SIM card manager option. There, they can Add cellular/mobile plan. Choose eSIM as the default for cellular data then activate Roaming.
Some eSIMs are activated by visiting an official store or by calling customer service to request it. They will then send the eSIM code by mail along with installation instructions.
eSIM vs. Prepaid SIM Cards in Canada
An eSIM is already embedded in the device as a virtual SIM card. It stores all the traveler’s information regarding their cellular data plan. It can also be used to connect to a local network abroad with the help of an international provider.
But data roaming is different since it’s a service offered by the local or domestic cellular operator. It allows travelers and tourists to use their phones outside of their home country. When they’re abroad, data roaming tends to be costly though it allows them to call and send messages.
Takeaway
Right now, travel is becoming more convenient for tourists. Gone are the days when they need to search for SIM card providers at the airport. They can easily prepare in the comfort of their home before leaving for Canada or anywhere in the world. eSIMs made it possible to stay connected online.
However, travelers need to know what to look for in an eSIM provider before they avail their services. Coverage, data plan, speed, and price are all important factors to consider. An eSIM should be part of the travel budget from the get-go since it’s a crucial part of the trip.
With the right eSIM provider, tourists can travel anywhere without worrying about roaming costs. They can focus on enjoying the trip and making memories with their loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much mobile data is usually needed when traveling in Canada?
This depends on one’s data consumption but on average, a 30-day trip may need about 10GB. This takes social media use, video calls, and checking maps into consideration.
Does Canada have 5G for eSIMs?
Yes, Canada has a significant deployment of 5G networks. Companies recognize that travelers and tourists need high-speed internet to enjoy their trip.
How many eSIMs can one phone have?
Most phones allow four to five eSIMs in one phone but only one may be active at a time.