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If you’re traveling to another country, eSIMs offer more flexibility and convenience for you to get mobile data and connect to local networks and saves you from the need to incur high roaming charges.
If you’re planning to travel to Canada or you’re already in Canada, there’s a chance you might be thinking of which eSIM to get. With many eSIM providers out there, it can be confusing to decide which one is the best for you. In this article, we’ll discuss the best eSIM options in Canada, their features and benefits, and how you can decide on which one is the best fit for you.
Top eSIMs for Canada
1. Prestmit eSIM
Prestmit eSIM is unarguably one of the best eSIMs you can use in Canada. It offers instant connectivity, allowing you to get online securely and with ease so you can keep carrying out your business without interruption. Prestmit also offers flexible data plans that are specially designed to meet your travel needs.
You can choose from any of Prestmit’s wide range of cheap data plans like 100MB for just $0.30 or 500MB for $0.90 if you’re a light data user. If you want something more, Prestmit offers 1GB for 7 days which costs $1.50, 3GB for 15 days which costs $3.70 and 5G for 30 days which costs $5.70.
There are also other data packages like the 10GB 30-day single use, 5GB 30 days single use and many more. You can top up anywhere and anytime and enjoy strong network coverage in both urban and remote areas in Canada. You can also monitor your eSIM usage, check your balance and get real-time notifications when you’re in Canada.
2. Airalo eSIM
Airalo is an international eSIM provider that boasts millions of users around the world. They offer affordable plans and have one of the best networks in Canada. Their plans range from 1GB to 10GB with validity periods ranging between 7 and 30 days. Airalo covers both urban and remote areas, ensuring that you stay connected anywhere you are when you travel.
The eSIM is a versatile option for most users as it works with all compatible mobile devices such as Androids, iPhones, and tablets.
3. Saily eSIM
Saily is another great eSIM option in Canada. The eSIM offers a wide range of plans such as $5.29 for 1GB, valid for 7 days, $12.99 with 3GB valid for one month, $17.99 with 5 GB, $30.99 with 10 GB, and $43.99 with 20 GB. Saily has reliable network coverage that keeps you connected whether you’re in cities like Ontario or Toronto or you’re in more remote areas. They also offer coupon codes that can help you save a few bucks on your purchases.
Setting up Saily is easy. All you need to do is to scan the QR code sent to your email and you’ll be connected immediately. This eSIM works with a wide range of devices, meaning that you don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. You can download the Saily app on Apple App Store or Google Play Store to check your balance, monitor your eSIM usage, etc.
4. Jetpac eSIM
If you’re looking for something cheap and widely available, then Jetpac eSIM is for you. Jetpac’s network is strong and their data prices are competitive. They offer 1GB for 4 days at just $1 and 3GB for 7 days at just $5 for those who need an eSIM for only a short period. They also have other data plans that you can explore if you’re looking for something that’ll last a bit longer.
Jetpac works on both Android and iOS devices and setting it up is quite easy. Just select a data plan of your choice, download Jetpac, and create an account to start enjoying Jetpac’s services.
5. Nomad eSIM
Nomad eSIM offers flexible data plans for users across Canada. As one of the most popular eSims, they’re available in over 100 countries and their data plans range from 1 GB for 7 days up to 10GB for 30 days with their prices ranging accordingly. They also offer customized data plans if you want something different from their regular offerings.
With their strong 4G and 5G network coverage across Canada, you can rest assured of being connected to fast and reliable internet whether you’re in cities or remote locations. Nomad’s eSIMs work with Androids, iPhones, tablets, and other compatible devices.
Comparison Table of Best eSIM Options for Canada
eSIM | Plans | Pricing | Compatibility |
Prestmit | 100MB, 500MB, 1GB, 1.5GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, | Starting from $0.30 | iOS and Android |
Airalo | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | Starting from $6 | iOS and Android |
Saily | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | Starting from $5.29 | iOS and Android |
Jetpac | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB | Starting from $1 | iOS and Android |
Nomad | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | Starting from $5 | iOS and Android |
Factors to Consider Before Choosing an eSIM Option for Canada Travel
1. Network Coverage
One of the most important things to consider is the network coverage of the eSIM. While most eSIMs have good network coverage in major cities, some do not have strong network coverage in remote areas. Ensure that you choose an eSIM that connects to reliable networks in your location to avoid struggling with poor network connection.
2. Data Usage
Everyone uses data differently. While some are heavy users, some are moderate users, and some are light users. In all, your data use mostly depends on the activity you’re using it for. If you’re someone who loves streaming or watching videos on social media, then you’re more likely to use more data. Ensure you choose a data plan that accommodates all your data needs. Heavy data users might need up to 30GB per month, while moderate users need about 15GB a month. Light users will usually need less than 10GB per month.
3. Travel Duration
Another factor that’ll determine the data you need is how long you intend to stay. The longer you stay in Canada, the more data you’ll likely need. eSIM plans are designed to accommodate you throughout the length of your trip. If you’re going to stay for a week, then you should choose a weekly plan. However, if you’re going to be staying for up to a month, then a monthly plan is your best option.
4. Communication Needs
While some eSIMs usually offer plans that come with a local phone number that allows you to make and receive regular calls, most eSIM providers offer mobile data plans only. That’s why you need to consider your communication needs before choosing an eSIM. If you need to make calls or send text messages, you need to choose an eSIM that allows you to do that, or consider alternative methods of making calls like WhatsApp or Messenger.
5. Hotspot Need
You’ll likely need to share your data across multiple devices. Personally, I like to go on trips with multiple devices and I use my primary device as a hotspot to connect my other devices to the internet. Some people like to share their data with other people like their family and friends who are on the trip with them.
For whatever reason you need to share your data, ensure you confirm that the eSIM plan allows you to tether. Also, hotspots can drain your data faster so consider this when choosing your plan.
6. eSIM Prices
eSIMs come in different prices and sometimes these prices are dependent on the amount of data on offer. Although plans with more data are usually more expensive than plans with lower data, they’re still cheaper per GB. Data plans usually start at around $1 while mid-range plans of 5-10GB of data can cost between $13 and $25 for 30 days. Prices of unlimited data plans are a bit on the high side as they cost between $30 to $60 per month.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Best eSIM Options for Canada
Can I use my regular phone plan while I have a Canada eSIM?
Yes, if your phone supports two SIMs. Some phones, like the iPhone 14, can keep both active at the same time.
Is it worth getting an eSIM for my trip to Canada?
Yes, it is worth getting an eSIM for a Canada travel. You just need to buy eSIM plan from providers like Prestmit, depending on your duration of stay and level of consumption.
Will my Canada eSIM have a phone number?
This depends on the eSIM you choose. Some eSIMs have a number for calls and texts, but many eSIMs like Prestmit, etpac, Nomad, and Airalo are data-only and don’t include a phone number.
Conclusion
eSIMs come with plenty of benefits and are often a better choice than a regular SIM for most travelers. They’re also the quickest and easiest way to get mobile data when visiting Canada. While network speeds and coverage can vary depending on your provider and where you are in Canada, you’ll still get a reliable connection for your trip. One thing you should always keep in mind is compatibility as not all phones support eSIMs.