Your Guide to Staying Connected in Canada

Why an eSIM is Your Best Bet for Canada Travel

You’re heading to Canada, and staying connected is probably high on your list. Relying on your home plan for international roaming is a fast track to shock bills. Trust me, nobody wants to come home to a $200 phone bill just for checking Instagram.

eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, are digital SIM cards that cut out the need for a physical chip. You buy them online, scan a QR code, and you’re good to go. This means you can land in Canada with internet access already sorted, skipping the mad dash for a SIM card shop after a long flight. Plus, Canada’s local prepaid SIM scene for tourists isn’t great – often expensive and not always 5G ready. eSIMs generally offer better value and convenience.

Choosing Your Canada eSIM: Top Recommendations and Detailed Comparison

Many providers offer eSIMs for Canada, but not all are created equal. I’ve tested countless options over years of non-stop travel, and these are the ones that consistently deliver.

My Top Two eSIM Picks for Canada in 2026

Before anything, confirm: Is your phone unlocked and eSIM compatible? If not, these won’t work for you. Check your phone settings or search “Is [Your Phone Model] eSIM compatible?”

1. Airhub Canada eSIM

This is my primary recommendation for overall value and features.

• Cost: $28 USD
• Data: 17 GB
• Validity: 30 days
• Network: Operates on Telus network (reliable performance)
• Speed: 5G ready
• Calling: Unlimited calling within Canada and 1,000 minutes for international calls. This is a game-changer if you need to make actual calls.

Airhub offers a wide range of eSIMs, with over 30 options for Canada. The 17 GB plan for $28 is a strong contender, but they also have a 45 GB plan for $37 USD over 30 days, which is fantastic if you’re a heavy data user.

Watch out for: Airhub eSIMs activate instantly from the day of purchase. While you can set a future travel date, the validity period starts based on your purchase date or selected activation date, not necessarily when you first connect in Canada. Plan your purchase carefully based on your trip start.

2. Three HK eSIM for Canada (via SimOptions)

A good alternative, especially if you’re also visiting other countries in North America or beyond.

• Cost: $34.90 USD
• Data: 20 GB
• Validity: 30 days
• Network: 4G/LTE (operates on Rogers in Canada)
• Coverage: Valid in Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and Hong Kong.
• Phone Number: Comes with a Hong Kong (+852) number. Supports incoming SMS, but not outgoing calls/SMS.

This plan offers a solid data allowance at a reasonable price, especially considering its multi-country validity. If your itinerary includes the US, this becomes even more appealing.

Watch out for: Some users have reported issues accessing TikTok due to the Hong Kong origin of the SIM (TikTok is blocked in Hong Kong). A VPN can sometimes solve this, but it’s an extra step. Also, the validity starts immediately upon installation, even if you’re not in Canada yet.

Detailed Comparison of Other Reliable eSIM Providers

Beyond my top two, several other providers offer good options. Competition is fierce, which is great for you!

Jetpac

Jetpac is newer but has competitive prices and some interesting perks.

• Plans for Canada:
  • 1 GB for 4 days = $1 USD
  • 3 GB for 7 days = $10 USD
  • 5 GB for 30 days = $13 USD
  • 10 GB for 30 days = $25 USD
  • 15 GB for 30 days = $30 USD
  • 20 GB for 30 days = $40 USD
  • 30 GB for 30 days = $55 USD
  • 40 GB for 30 days = $63 USD (best value at $1.58/GB)
• Network: 5G ready, operates on Telus and Bell.
• Coverage: Valid in Canada and the USA, making it excellent for North American trips.
• Features: Data-only, no calls/SMS.
• Perks: Includes a free VPN subscription and free lounge access if your flight is delayed (requires flight registration beforehand).

Pro Tip: For my readers, use discount code TOMTOM10 at checkout for an extra 10% off Jetpac eSIMs.

The 40 GB plan for $63 USD offers the best per-gigabyte value here. Jetpac’s activation starts when it first connects to a supported network in Canada, and the eSIMs must be installed within one year of purchase.

SimOptions

A very reliable provider I’ve used countless times in over 50 countries.

• Canada-Specific Plans:
  • 1 GB for 7 days = $4.50 USD
  • 3 GB for 30 days = $7.90 USD
  • 5 GB for 30 days = $11.90 USD
  • 10 GB for 30 days = $22.90 USD
  • 30 GB for 30 days = $59.90 USD
• International Plans (Three HK, also valid in Canada):
  • 10 GB for 30 days = $24.90 USD
  • 20 GB for 30 days = $34.90 USD
• Network: 5G ready for Canada-specific plans (network unspecified). Three HK plans use Rogers 4G/LTE.
• Features: Data-only for Canada-specific plans. Three HK plans come with a Hong Kong (+852) number for incoming SMS.

SimOptions is a solid, trustworthy choice. Their Canada-specific plans are data-only, with validity starting upon first connection in Canada. The Three HK international plans activate immediately upon installation, regardless of location.

Airalo

One of the oldest and most trusted eSIM providers, always a strong contender.

• Plans for Canada:
  • 1 GB for 7 days = $6 USD
  • 2 GB for 15 days = $11 USD
  • 3 GB for 30 days = $15 USD
  • 5 GB for 30 days = $18 USD
  • 10 GB for 30 days = $35 USD
  • 20 GB for 30 days = $49 USD
• Network: 5G ready, operates on Rogers (4G/LTE) and Bell/Telus (5G).
• Features: Data-only, no calls/SMS.

Pro Tip: Use coupon code TOMTOM3 at checkout for $3 USD off your first Airalo eSIM. They frequently run promotions, so keep an eye out for 50% off deals!

Airalo’s “Tuque Mobile” eSIMs are highly reliable. Installation needs to happen within one month, and activation occurs on first connection to a supported network in Canada.

Nomad

Nomad often has competitive pricing but I’ve experienced mixed reliability.

• Plans for Canada:
  • 1 GB for 7 days = $5 USD
  • 3 GB for 30 days = $10 USD
  • 5 GB for 30 days = $12 USD
  • 10 GB for 30 days = $19 USD
  • 20 GB for 30 days = $26 USD
• Network: 5G ready, operates on Rogers.
• Features: Data-only, no calls/SMS.

While Nomad can be very cheap, especially for larger data packages, I’ve had some activation and connectivity issues. They are working on improving consistency, but it’s something to be aware of. Their daily plans often offer poor value compared to their monthly packages – avoid the daily ones, they’re usually pointless.

Nomad eSIMs must be installed within 30 days, and validity starts upon first connection to a Canadian network.

Holafly

Holafly offers “unlimited” data plans, but I’m generally not a fan due to Fair Usage Policies.

• “Unlimited” Data Plans for Canada:
  • 1 day = $8 USD
  • 5 days = $29 USD
  • 10 days = $40 USD
  • 30 days = $94 USD
• Network: 5G ready, operates on Rogers.
• Features: Data-only, no calls/SMS. Hotspot capped at 500 MB/day.

Holafly’s plans are significantly more expensive than others, and the “unlimited” often comes with a Fair Use Policy (FUP) that can throttle your speeds after a certain usage amount (e.g., 2 GB/day in my experience). This means you could suddenly find yourself with painfully slow data for 24 hours. For me, slow data is worse than no data. Unless you truly use minimal data and want the peace of mind of ‘unlimited’, I’d suggest a capped plan from another provider that guarantees consistent speeds.

The Cheapest eSIM for Canada

Looking for the absolute lowest cost? Jetpac currently has a plan for just $1 USD for 1 GB valid for 4 days. Airalo, Nomad, and SimOptions also offer 1 GB plans for around $5-6 USD. These are strictly data-only and great for short trips or light usage to get you started.

How to Buy and Activate Your Canada eSIM

The beauty of eSIMs is their simplicity. Here’s how to get yours up and running:

Step 1: Purchase Your eSIM Online

Go to your chosen provider’s website (e.g., Airhub, Jetpac, Airalo). Select your desired Canada eSIM plan.

— Make sure to enter any discount codes if available (e.g., TOMTOM10 for Jetpac, TOMTOM3 for Airalo).

Once your payment is processed, you’ll instantly receive an email with your eSIM details, including a QR code and activation instructions. You’ll likely see the QR code on your screen immediately after purchase too.

Step 2: Prepare for Installation

You need an internet connection to install the eSIM. If you’re buying it right before your trip, make sure you have Wi-Fi access (e.g., at home, airport Wi-Fi).

Pro Tip: If you’re buying and installing on the same phone, you’ll need the QR code displayed on a separate screen (like a tablet, laptop, or a friend’s phone) so your phone can scan it. Alternatively, some providers offer a manual installation option where you copy-paste codes.

Step 3: Install Your eSIM

1. Access Phone Settings: Go to your phone’s Settings menu.
2. Navigate to Cellular/Mobile Data: Find the “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” section.
3. Add eSIM/Cellular Plan: Look for an option like “Add eSIM,” “Add Data Plan,” or “Add Cellular Plan.”
4. Scan QR Code: Your phone’s camera will open. Point it at the QR code you received from the provider.
5. Follow On-Screen Prompts: Your phone will guide you through a few quick steps. This usually involves confirming the plan and renaming it (e.g., “Canada Travel”).
6. Installation Complete: Within a minute, your eSIM will be installed.

If you encounter an error during installation, double-check your internet connection. If trying to scan from the same phone, use the manual entry option instead.

Step 4: Activate Your eSIM

Activation timing varies by provider (as noted in the comparison above):

• Some activate immediately upon installation.
• Most activate only when they detect a supported network in Canada.

My Advice: Install your eSIM on the day you depart for Canada, or even better, wait until you land at a Canadian airport and connect to the free public Wi-Fi there. This maximizes your validity period and ensures you’re online as soon as you exit the plane.

Once in Canada, go to your phone’s Cellular/Mobile Data settings:

1. Enable the Canada eSIM: Turn on the newly installed eSIM.
2. Set as Primary for Data: Ensure it’s selected for “Mobile Data” or “Cellular Data.”
3. Disable Data Roaming on Home SIM: Crucially, turn off “Data Roaming” for your home SIM to avoid accidental charges, but keep the home SIM active if you want to receive calls/texts from home.

You should see network bars appear for your Canada eSIM, and you’ll be connected.

When Should You Order Your Canada eSIM?

You can purchase an eSIM anytime. Most are valid for installation for 1 month or even up to 1 year after purchase. The real question is when to install/activate.

As mentioned, I recommend installing it on the day of departure, or upon arrival at the airport using free Wi-Fi. This ensures your data validity period begins when you actually need it in Canada.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring “Unlocked Phone” Rule: This is the number one issue. If your phone is locked to your home carrier, an eSIM from another provider will not work. Check your phone’s status before you buy.
• Forgetting Internet Connection for Setup: You absolutely need Wi-Fi or a cellular connection to install the eSIM profile. Don’t try to do this in the middle of nowhere without internet.
• Not Disabling Home SIM Data Roaming: Keep your home SIM active for calls/texts, but turn off its data roaming to prevent exorbitant charges. Many people forget this critical step.
• Misunderstanding “Unlimited” Data: Holafly’s “unlimited” plans often have a Fair Use Policy (FUP) that throttles speeds after a certain daily usage. If you’re a heavy data user, a capped plan with guaranteed high speeds might be better.
• Buying a Physical SIM from Local Carriers: While possible, local Canadian prepaid SIMs for tourists are generally expensive and don’t offer the same value or 5G access as most eSIMs. Save yourself the hassle.
• Assuming Calling/SMS Included: Most eSIMs for Canada are data-only. If calling/SMS are essential, check the specific eSIM’s features carefully (e.g., Airhub, or the Three HK plan with incoming SMS). For outgoing calls, you’ll likely need WhatsApp, Skype, or a similar VoIP service.
• Incorrect Activation Timing: If your eSIM activates immediately on purchase or installation, and you buy it weeks before your trip, you’re wasting validity days. Pay attention to the provider’s activation policy.

Pro Tips for Using eSIMs in Canada

1. Carry a Power Bank: If you’re relying heavily on your phone for navigation, travel apps, and data, an extra battery pack is your best friend. Constantly searching for signal and using data can drain your phone faster.
2. Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible: Even with a generous data plan, hop onto free Wi-Fi in cafes, hotels, and public places to conserve your eSIM data.
3. Download Offline Maps: Before you leave Wi-Fi, download Google Maps for the areas you’ll be visiting. This saves data and acts as a backup if you lose signal.
4. Know Your Phone’s eSIM Compatibility: Not all phones support eSIMs, especially older models. A quick Google search for “[Your Phone Model] eSIM compatibility” will confirm this. If your phone isn’t compatible, you’ll need a physical international SIM or a portable Wi-Fi device.
5. Use VPN if Needed (e.g., for Three HK eSIM): If you chose a Three HK eSIM and find certain apps like TikTok blocked, a VPN can bypass these restrictions.
6. Keep Home SIM for Essential Communication: If you want to receive calls or texts from home (without paying for data roaming), keep your home SIM active but turn off its data. Use your eSIM solely for data.
7. Monitor Data Usage: Most phones have a data usage tracker in settings. Keep an eye on it to avoid running out unexpectedly, especially with capped plans.

FAQ

Q: Can I use my home phone number with a Canada eSIM?

A: Yes, absolutely. This is one of the biggest advantages of eSIMs. You can keep your primary SIM (with your home number) active for calls and texts, and use the Canada eSIM exclusively for mobile data. Just make sure to turn off data roaming for your home SIM in your phone settings to avoid charges.

Q: Do Canada eSIMs come with a phone number?

A: Most Canadian eSIMs I recommend (Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad, Airalo) are data-only and do not include a phone number. However, some SimOptions plans, specifically the Three HK international eSIM, come with a Hong Kong (+852) number that allows you to receive SMS. If you crucially need a Canadian phone number for calls, you might consider a local physical SIM card upon arrival, though this is less convenient and often more expensive.

Q: Can I make phone calls and send SMS with a Canada eSIM?

A: Generally, no. The majority of eSIMs for Canada are data-only. This means you’ll rely on internet-based apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Skype, or social media for calls and messages. However, high-value plans like the Airhub Canada eSIM DO include unlimited calls within Canada and international minutes, which is a rare and excellent feature.

Q: Is 5G available on Canada eSIMs?

A: Yes, most recommended Canada eSIMs are 5G ready. Providers like Airhub, Jetpac, Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly advertise 5G compatibility. This means you’ll get the fastest available network speeds where 5G coverage exists in Canada.

Q: Why are Canadian prepaid SIM cards for tourists often a bad deal compared to eSIMs?

A: Local prepaid SIM cards in Canada for tourists tend to be quite expensive, and surprisingly, don’t always offer 5G access for prepaid users – they often limit you to 4G/LTE. Furthermore, you’ll spend valuable travel time hunting for a shop and dealing with activation. eSIMs are almost always cheaper, more convenient, and often offer better network features for travelers.

Q: What if my flight is delayed, and my eSIM activates immediately on purchase?

A: This is a valid concern for some eSIMs (like certain Airhub plans or the Three HK eSIM from SimOptions). Always check the activation policy before buying. If it activates instantly, consider purchasing it closer to your departure date. For eSIMs that activate on first connection in Canada, you have more flexibility.

Q: Are eSIMs truly the “best” way to stay connected, or should I consider other options?

A: For most travelers, eSIMs are the easiest, fastest, and often cheapest way to get data in Canada. Alternatives include local physical prepaid SIMs (more hassle, often poorer value), international physical prepaid SIMs (good if your phone isn’t eSIM compatible, but still a physical card to manage), or sticking with your home carrier’s roaming (expensive beyond belief). For convenience and cost, eSIMs generally win.