It’s so convenient having access to mobile data to view airline tickets, make reservations, and use travel itinerary apps. Are you familiar with the various ways you can use your data abroad without paying roaming fees? Here are your options, from the easiest to the most complex.
1. The Canada–International plan: A worry-free solution
Designed for frequent travellers, this plan offers the best of both worlds—full coverage in Canada, plus calling, texting, and data in some 100 destinations around the world.
With a plan like this, you don’t have to think twice before you set out. You can travel from one covered country to another and continue using your services as usual. No matter where you are, you keep the same provider and always have access to technical support when you dial *611 on your phone. In short, you get all-around peace of mind.
Check out Videotron Mobile plans with data for travellers.
2. Travel options for occasional getaways
Don’t travel often, or only need your data on certain days of your trip? You can use your data as you would at home without having an international plan, thanks to various options available from your provider.
Videotron’s Daily Traveller Pass lets you make calls, send text messages, and use your data in over 100 countries for a fixed daily rate. You only pay for the days you use your services. It’s as simple as that!
Learn how to activate the Daily Traveller Pass.
3. The eSIM card: an innovative option for travelling light
The eSIM is a digital SIM card you can activate instantly online. Before travelling abroad, you can go online to purchase an eSIM card for your destination. It will provide you with a local phone number you can use to subscribe to a low-cost mobile plan in the country you’re visiting. Caution: only compatible devices (typically manufactured after 2018) can use eSIM cards.
The eSIM option is cost-effective, but it does have a few drawbacks. For starters, you have to use a different phone number, which means you won’t receive calls made to your regular number. What’s more, you can’t always be sure how reliable local providers are. You’ll also be paying twice for mobile services, as you’ll continue being charged for your regular number, in addition to what you pay for your foreign eSIM plan. In short, you’ll want to weigh your decision carefully.
4. Local SIM cards: a good option for longer stays
If your phone doesn’t support eSIM cards, you can always buy a physical SIM card in the country you’re visiting to get a local number and access low-cost mobile services. These cards are generally sold at airports and tourist sites. You can also order one online and have it delivered before you leave.
Local SIM cards come with the same pros and cons as eSIMs, but there are a few other disadvantages as well. For example, it may be impossible to activate mobile services before arriving at your destination. What’s more, you’ll have to swap out your SIM card yourself and ensure you don’t lose the original one, as you’ll need to reinstall it to recover your number when you get home.
Data in your luggage
The travel solution you choose will depend on your level of comfort with mobile technology, the length of your stay, the cost involved, and how much energy you want to spend planning your mobile needs. No matter which option you choose, you’ll find that once you reach your destination, staying connected to your mobile data won’t interfere with your ability to enjoy your time away. On the contrary, it will help you make the most of your trip!
If you have any other questions prior to departure, check out our support page on using your mobile device abroad.
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Publié 12-11-2024
Version 1.0
