Planning a trip out of the country? Canada's big carriers, including Rogers and TELUS, offer the best international roaming plans. But their daily rates add up fast, and before you know it, you're coming home to a phone bill that stings. There's a smarter way to stay connected abroad, and it costs a lot less.
In this guide, we compare carrier roaming plans like TELUS Easy Roam against travel eSIMs—a more affordable alternative that connects you to a local data plan instead. You'll see exactly how much you can save on a one- or two-week trip, and we'll share a few simple tips to ensure your phone bill never catches you off guard again.
In this article:
The Current State of Roaming in Canada
Many Canadians stick to the Big 3 carriers, even while taking trips abroad.
For years, Canadians have turned to the Big 3 telcos, including Rogers and TELUS, as the default way to stay connected abroad. While these carriers offer a convenient option, most of their plans are based on hefty daily rates that can easily climb into the hundreds—even on a short trip.
Despite the high costs of daily roaming rates, many Canadians still stick with their existing carriers when traveling.
Let's start with the reasons why travelers may choose to stay with their current provider, using daily roaming rates in plans like Rogers' Roam Like Home or TELUS Easy Roam.
Why Canadians Still Use Carrier Roaming
Most Canadians stick with their carrier abroad for one simple reason: it requires no preparation.
- Full service: The plan typically includes all services (calls, texts, and data) bundled together on your regular phone number.
- Simplicity: Daily roaming rates plans are some of the most common plans in Canada. All you have to do is check with your carrier that the plan is activated in your account. Less prep is convenient, but that convenience comes at a high daily roaming rate.
- Familiar support: You know who to call if something goes wrong—your home carrier—but be prepared for hold times if you choose this option.
- Lack of knowledge: Travelers might not know there are alternatives and keep their primary carrier active because it's the default choice.
The Real Cost of Carrier Roaming
Convenience is an important reason why travelers choose the Big 3 telcos, but it comes at a high cost. The average daily fee from these carriers is around CAD $16.50. Over a two-week trip, roaming fees from the Big 3 can quickly climb over CAD $250—money far better spent on a first-class upgrade or a round of drinks that come with a tiny umbrella.
Another drawback is the lack of flexibility. Your bill is based on a high daily roaming rate, rather than individual data usage. For anything longer than a short weekend trip, the lack of transparency and options can really hurt your wallet.
What's an eSIM and Why Should Canadians Care?
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