Best eSIMs for Canada in 2024: plans and prices

eSIMs are among the most popular choices for staying connected on a budget in Canada. Several Canadian eSIM providers, such as Saily, Airalo, Jetpac, Alosim, and Nomad, offer flexible plans tailored to the needs of both short-term visitors and those on extended stays.

eSIMs, or embedded SIMs, work by allowing you to download a digital SIM card directly to your device without needing a physical SIM card. This technology is especially convenient for travelers as it eliminates the hassle of swapping out physical SIM cards or dealing with roaming charges. eSIMs also allow users to switch between different carriers and plans easily, ensuring that you always have access to the best network coverage and data rates available.

After having personally tested several eSIM cards for Canada, I found Saily to be the best option in 2024. It stands out for its comprehensive coverage, competitive pricing, and user-friendly interface. Curious to find out more? Read on.

How much does eSIM cost in Canada?

The cost of eSIMs in Canada varies depending on the provider, the type of plan, and the duration of your stay, ranging from $3 to $49. As of December 2024, eSIM providers offer a range of options, from short-term travel packages to more comprehensive long-term plans. Pricing is typically influenced by data limits, network access, and any additional features such as international roaming. Here's a breakdown of the general pricing structure for eSIMs in Canada:

Among these options, Jetpac offers the cheapest eSIM for Canada, with a 1 GB plan at just $1. However, if you require more data, Saily’s 5 GB plan for $17.99 (30 days) provides a great balance between cost and coverage.

When choosing an eSIM for Canada, consider the duration of your stay and your data needs. Short-term travelers might opt for more budget-friendly options, while those staying longer or needing more data might find higher value in plans with larger data allowances. Remember that additional fees may apply if you exceed your data limit or need to access specific networks.

Best Canadian eSIM providers: detailed list

1. Saily - best eSIM for Canada tourists with the cheapest plans
2. Airalo - well-known eSIM for Canada with flexible plans
3. Jetpac - cheapest eSIM for traveling in Canada
4. Alosim - flexible Canadian eSIM card for iPhone, Android, and more
5. Nomad - user-friendly eSIM for Canada with local and regional plans

To find the best eSIM for Canada, I tested 20+ and shortlisted five providers: Saily, Airalo, Jetpac, Alosim, and Nomad. I evaluated them based on pricing, data coverage, ease of use, activation, customer support, and device compatibility, aiming for the best combination of value, reliability, and user-friendliness.

1. Saily – overall best eSIM for Canada tourists with the cheapest plans

Saily stands out as the overall best eSIM option for tourists visiting Canada. For Canada, this eSIM costs $5.29 for 1GB, valid for 7 days, while monthly plans cost $12.99 with 3 GB, $17.99 with 5 GB, $30.99 with 10 GB, and $43.99 with 20 GB data plans. With its reliable coverage, you can stay connected whether you're in major cities like Toronto or exploring more remote areas of Canada. Be sure to check out Saily coupon codes to save even more on your next purchase.

Setting up Saily is a breeze. After purchasing Saily eSIM for Canada, simply scan the QR code sent to your email, and you’ll be connected within minutes. Saily is compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhones, Androids, and tablets, ensuring that users can easily get connected without any compatibility issues. The Saily app, available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, offers clear, step-by-step instructions for activation, making the process straightforward.

Saily also provides 24/7 live chat and email support to assist with any issues or questions that may arise during your travels. The app supports payments via Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, and Discover, offering flexibility and convenience when purchasing your plan.

In summary, Saily combines affordability, ease of use, and reliable coverage, making it the top choice for travelers seeking dependable connectivity during their stay in Canada.

For a deeper investigation of Saily, read our Saily review.

2. Airalo – a well-known eSIM provider in Canada with flexible plans

Airalo is a well-known eSIM provider in Canada, recognized for its flexible plans and extensive global reach, making it an excellent choice for travelers who need reliable connectivity across multiple countries. Airalo offers various plans to suit different needs, including a 1 GB plan for 7 days at $6, 2 GB plan for 15 days at $11, 3 GB for 30 days at $15, 5 GB plan for 30 days at $18, 10 GB plan for 30 days at $35, and 20 GB plan for 30 days at $49. Be sure to check out Airalo coupon codes to save even more on your next purchase.

With strong coverage across Canada, including urban and remote areas, Airalo ensures that you stay connected wherever you travel. The eSIM is compatible with most devices, including iPhones, Androids, and tablets, making it a versatile option for various users.

Activating Airalo is straightforward—simply scan the QR code sent to your email after purchase, and you’ll be connected in minutes. This ease of use, combined with competitive pricing and global flexibility, makes Airalo a standout choice for both Canadian and international travelers.

For a deeper investigation of Airalo, read our Airalo review.

3. Jetpac – cheapest eSIM for traveling in Canada

Jetpac is one of the cheapest eSIMs available in the market. Even though it offers affordable prices, it still works well traveling around the world, including Canada. Jetpac is a good eSIM service for both short and long trips in Canada, as it offers competitive prices and various data plans. If you need an eSIM for a short period of time, you can get 1 GB of data for 4 days at only $1 or 3 GB for 7 days at $5. If you need more data and are planning to travel longer, you can choose from quite a few monthly plans. You can get 5 GB for $13, 10 GB for $25, 15 GB for $30, 20 GB for $40, 30 GB for $55, and 40 GB for $63.

You can use Jetpac on iOS and Android devices, including mobile phones and various tablets. The setup process is fairly simple, so even if you’re new to eSIMs, you will have no issues activating it. All you have to do is select a data plan, download Jetpac, and create an account. Once that is done, Jetpac will guide you step-by-step through the setup process.

While Jetpac does not support phone calls or text messages, you should have no issues making calls or texting via messaging apps like Messenger. If you encounter any issues, Jetpac provides customer support via WhatsApp chat or email, so you’ll be able to solve any problems and enjoy Jetpac hassle-free.

4. Alosim – flexible Canadian eSIM card for iPhone, Android, and more

Alosim is among the top eSIM providers for travelers to Canada. It offers strong and reliable coverage throughout the country, including major cities and remote areas. The service provides a variety of data plans to suit different needs, including options like $6 for 1GB, valid for 7 days, $11 with 2 GB valid for 15 days, or monthly offers like $15 with 3 GB, $18 with 5 GB, $30 with 10 GB, and $49 with 20 GB data plans. This flexibility makes Alosim a great choice for both short-term visitors and those on extended stays.

Alosim supports a wide range of devices, including iPhones, Androids, and tablets, and offers high-speed 4G and 5G network access. The Canadian eSIM activation process is straightforward - simply scan the QR code sent to your email, and you're connected in minutes. Alosim also allows tethering, enabling users to use their eSIM as a hotspot.

The Alosim app is easy to navigate, providing in-app guides to assist with setup, making it ideal even for those new to using eSIMs. While it does not support phone calls directly, Alosim offers 24/7 live chat support to help users with any issues they might encounter.

In conclusion, Alosim is an excellent option for travelers seeking flexible data plans and reliable coverage in Canada, though the lack of phone call support might be a limitation for some users.

For a deeper investigation of aloSIM, read our aloSIM review.

5. Nomad – user-friendly Canada eSIM with local and regional plans

Nomad is a versatile eSIM provider in Canada known for its flexible data plans that cater to a wide range of travel needs. With plans available for over 110 countries, Nomad offers customizable options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days up to 10 GB for 30 days. Prices range accordingly, with more extensive plans costing more, reflecting their premium nature.

Nomad’s eSIMs are compatible with a wide range of devices, including iPhones, Androids, and tablets. The service provides strong coverage throughout Canada and internationally, leveraging 4G and 5G networks for fast and reliable internet access, particularly in urban areas.

Activating a Nomad eSIM is straightforward – just scan the QR code provided via email, and you’re connected. While Nomad does not support phone calls, it does allow for text messaging and offers a unique feature: if you exhaust your data, you’re automatically switched to a throttled yet unlimited 512kbps connection, sufficient for basic browsing and email.

In summary, Nomad is a solid choice for travelers seeking customizable plans and reliable connectivity in Canada and beyond, though its higher pricing for certain plans might be a consideration for budget-conscious users.

For a deeper investigation of Nomad, read our Nomad review.

How to set up eSIM for Canada?

Setting up an eSIM in Canada is straightforward and involves a few simple steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide for both Android and iPhone devices:

1. Android setup. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network.> Tap Add Carrier and select Download a SIM instead. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier or manually enter the activation details if prompted. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation.
2. iPhone setup. Open Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. Use your iPhone's camera to scan the QR code or enter the details manually if required and then follow the prompts to complete the setup process.
3. Restart device. To ensure the eSIM is activated properly, restart your device after setup.
4. Verify activation. Check your network settings by navigating to Settings > Cellular or Mobile Network to confirm that your eSIM is active and connected.

The setup usually takes just a few minutes, but to avoid interruptions, ensure you are connected to Wi-Fi throughout the process.

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Does my phone support a Canadian eSIM?

Most modern smartphones support eSIM technology, but compatibility can vary. To check if your phone supports Canadian eSIMs:

1. Check device specifications. Refer to your phone’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website to see if it supports eSIM.
2. Check settings. iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular; if you see an option to add a cellular plan, your phone supports eSIM. Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network; if you have the option to add or manage eSIMs, your phone is compatible.

Devices like recent iPhones (iPhone XS and later) and Android phones with Android 9.0 or later generally support eSIM technology.

Differences between a virtual eSIM for Canada and a physical card

When choosing between a virtual Canadian eSIM and a physical SIM card, there are several factors to consider. Both options have unique advantages and limitations that can impact your connectivity experience. Here's a comparison highlighting key aspects such as ease of activation, flexibility, and technical differences:

Virtual eSIMs provide greater flexibility and convenience, especially useful for frequent travelers, and eliminate the need to handle physical cards. In contrast, physical SIM cards are universally supported and simpler to replace if lost or damaged. Depending on your needs and device compatibility, choosing between an eSIM and a physical SIM card will enhance your connectivity experience while in Canada.

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How to prepare your phone for eSIM usage in Canada?

Before using a Canadian eSIM, follow these steps to ensure a smooth setup and optimal performance:

1. Update your software. Ensure your phone’s operating system is up to date, as eSIM functionality, especially for the best eSIM for Canada, often requires the latest software updates.
2. Back up your device. Before activating your eSIM for Canada, back up your phone data to avoid any potential loss during setup.
3. Check network settings. Confirm that your phone’s network settings are configured to support eSIM activation. If applicable, this may involve turning off your physical SIM.
4. Purchase a compatible plan. Choose the best Canada eSIM plan that fits your usage needs. Verify that your chosen provider's eSIM profile is ready for installation and works across Canada.
5. Prepare for activation. Once in Canada, have your QR code or activation details from your Canadian eSIM provider readily available. This will streamline the setup process and ensure you can activate your eSIM as soon as you arrive.

Conclusion: which is the best eSIM to use in Canada?

When choosing the best eSIM for Canada, Saily is the top choice for travelers due to its affordability, wide coverage, and ease of activation. Its plans are budget-friendly, making it ideal for both short-term and long-term travelers. Airalo provides global flexibility with competitive plans but may be less cost-effective. Nomad is user-friendly, with flexible options, while Alosim offers excellent device compatibility and diverse plans. Jetpac offers budget-friendly prices for various data plans and is easy to set up even for beginners. Overall, Saily's combination of low cost, reliable coverage, and simple setup makes it the best eSIM choice for staying connected in Canada.

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FAQ

Which Canadian eSIM is the cheapest?

Jetpac offers the most affordable eSIM plans in Canada, starting at $1 for 1 GB over 4 days. This makes it a great option for travelers on a tight budget. For slightly more data, their 3 GB plan for 7 days costs $10. Despite its low cost, Jetpac provides good connectivity and coverage, making it a reliable choice for budget-conscious users.

What is the best eSIM for Canada that works on iPhones?

Saily is considered the best eSIM for Canada that works on iPhones. It offers plans with attractive prices and outstanding coverage throughout Canada, including both urban and remote areas. With options like 5 GB for 30 days at $17.99 and 20 GB for 30 days at $43.99, Saily provides a balance of cost-effectiveness and reliability, ensuring a strong connection wherever you travel within Canada.

What is the best eSIM for Canada and the USA?

Airalo is the best eSIM for Canada and the USA, offering flexible and competitive plans that effectively cover both countries. Its regional plans provide reliable connectivity and wide coverage, making it ideal for travelers moving between Canada and the USA. Airalo’s eSIMs include options like 5 GB for 30 days at $18, offering good value and convenience for cross-border travel.

How much does eSIM cost in Canada?

eSIM plans in Canada vary in cost depending on data limits and duration. Prices start as low as $3 for basic plans, such as 1 GB over 7 days. Mid-range plans typically cost around $20-25 for 5-10 GB over 30 days. For extensive data needs, prices can go up to $50 for 20+ GB plans. Costs vary by provider and plan features.

Which eSIM has the best coverage for Canada?

Saily is noted for offering the best coverage across Canada. It ensures reliable connectivity in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, as well as in more remote and rural areas. With its comprehensive network and affordable pricing, Saily provides strong performance and wide coverage, making it an excellent choice for both travelers and residents who need consistent service throughout the country.

Is Airalo good in Canada?

Yes, Airalo is a good option for eSIM in Canada. It offers reliable coverage and flexible plans suitable for different data needs. While it may not be the cheapest option, Airalo’s broad network ensures consistent connectivity across Canada, making it a dependable choice for both short-term visitors and long-term residents. Its global reach also makes it ideal for travelers moving between multiple countries.

How much data do I need on my eSIM for a trip to Canada?

For a short trip to Canada, 5 GB of data is typically sufficient for moderate use, including browsing and occasional streaming. For longer stays or heavier data usage, such as frequent video streaming or extensive navigation, consider 10-20 GB. Assess your typical usage patterns to choose the right plan, ensuring you stay connected without running out of data during your trip.