RV Specialists
Roaming refers to the ability to use your mobile device outside of your cell phone provider's network. For example, when traveling to the U.S., your Canadian cell phone will still be able to receive and dial voice calls, send and receive messages and access data through "roaming".
Roaming Charges
Roaming involves fees that are usually called "roaming charges". If your wireless plan only includes usage in Canada, these roaming charges apply every time you use your cell phone when traveling outside of the country. For example, you will be subject to "roaming charges" when you answer a call from Canada or send emails, browse the internet or use apps while in the U.S. Each cell phone provider has different rates for pay per use roaming fees for voice, text and data. You can check with your provider about your detailed pay per use roaming rates.
Avoid High Roaming Charges
It's important to note that roaming charges can easily add up if you're not careful in monitoring your usage when traveling. Here are 4 different ways to avoid high roaming charges:
1. Turn off data roaming
Turning off data roaming on your device prevents it from accessing data through other networks when traveling. While data roaming is off, functions like the use of apps that require a data connection, sending picture messages and receiving emails will not work. You will still be able to make calls, send and receive text messages while data roaming is turned off. It's important to note with the use of voice calling or texting, roaming charges can still be incurred.
Keep in mind that once you turn your data roaming off, there could be a backlog of emails and other app updates. If you decide to turn data roaming back on while still traveling, your phone will load the backlog that was waiting to be delivered since you turned data roaming off.
This can result in unexpected roaming charges.
Tip: If you want to access the internet while traveling, and not get charged for any data roaming fees, you can connect your phone to Wi-Fi networks. Most hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls offer a Wi-Fi connection. When your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, you will have access to your email, the internet as well as use different apps with no additional roaming charges.
2. Get a SIM card from the country you're visiting
When you have arrived at your destination it is possible to purchase a SIM card from the local cell phone provider. To change SIM cards, you must remove your existing SIM and keep it somewhere safe until you return. You will need an unlocked device and a SIM card that fits your cell phone. Changing SIM cards means that you will use a local number from your destination.
It is important to know that your Canadian cell phone number will not work while your Canadian SIM is removed and you will need to make sure to let your family and friends know your new number attached to the SIM you just purchased. When you switch SIM cards, you will get charged the specific cell phone plan rates of the country you're visiting instead of the usual roaming charges.
Don't forget to put your Canadian SIM card back when you return from your trip!
3. Get a plan that includes roaming usage
Some Canadian providers have options for plans that include U.S. roaming usage. This type of plan usually includes minutes, texts and data that can be used either in Canada or in the U.S. For example, SimplyConnect's Canada/U.S. plans include cell phone usage for both Canada and the U.S.
SimplyConnect's Canada/U.S. plans prevent unexpected and expensive roaming charges while traveling in Canada and the U.S. These plans are perfect for Canadian Snowbirds who travel back and forth to both countries - one plan, one phone number, and one SIM card for both your Canadian and U.S. wireless needs. Off to the U.S. for a month? For 3 months? You will never have to worry about cross-border calling costs, switching plans, temporary numbers or changing SIM cards ever again.
Travel Seamlessly
Choose from our Individual Canada/U.S. plans packed with the right features to keep you connected while away or choose from our Couples Canada/U.S. plans that you can share when traveling with a loved one.
Call 1-866-669-2297 or visit simplyconnect.ca/canada-us-plans to learn more.