Mobile data while travelling: stay connected without unexpected charges
Google Maps, messages, boarding passes, reservations and transportation apps: learn how to use mobile data abroad, avoid expensive roaming fees and choose the right travel eSIM plan.
What is mobile data?
At home and abroad, mobile data, also called cellular data, provides an Internet connection whenever Wi-Fi is unavailable. It uses an operator’s 4G, LTE or 5G cellular network.
This connection becomes especially useful when travelling. You can find your hotel, display an electronic ticket, order an Uber or Bolt, translate a sentence and communicate with family without constantly searching for public Wi-Fi.
The problem is that using your regular mobile plan abroad can lead to expensive roaming charges. A travel mobile data eSIM provides a prepaid solution: choose your destination and the amount of data you need before departure.
Why is mobile data essential while travelling?
A mobile connection is no longer used only for social media. It can simplify almost every part of your trip.
GPS navigation
Use Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze to find your hotel, an attraction, a restaurant or the correct public transportation route.
Messages and calls
Communicate using WhatsApp, Messenger, FaceTime, Telegram or email, even when your hotel does not provide reliable Wi-Fi.
Travel documents
Access boarding passes, hotel confirmations, reservations, flight schedules and gate changes directly from your phone.
Transportation
Book a taxi or vehicle with Uber, Lyft, Grab or Bolt and follow your driver’s location from your phone.
Translation
Translate a menu, directions or a conversation using translation apps connected to the Internet.
Local searches
Quickly find a restaurant, pharmacy, ATM, attraction or the opening hours of a local business.
How can you get mobile data abroad?
Several solutions are available, but they do not all provide the same simplicity, flexibility or control over your costs.
| Solution | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roaming with your regular provider | No additional installation required | Possible daily charges that can quickly add up | A very short trip |
| Public Wi-Fi | Often free | Limited coverage, unstable connection and variable security | Occasional Internet access |
| Local physical SIM card | Access to a local mobile network | Requires a store visit and replacement of your physical SIM card | A long stay in one country |
| VoyageSIM eSIM Convenient | Purchase before departure, digital installation and prepaid data | An eSIM-compatible device is required | Travellers who want a simple way to stay connected |
Mobile data and roaming: what is the difference?
Mobile data refers to the Internet connection used by your phone. Roaming happens when your regular mobile plan connects to another operator’s network while you are outside your home country.
Your Canadian provider may apply a daily roaming rate or charge you according to your usage. During a trip lasting several days, these charges can quickly add up.
With a travel eSIM, you use a prepaid plan for your mobile data. Your primary SIM card can remain inside your phone, while the eSIM is selected as the line used for Internet access.
To prevent accidental use of your Canadian plan, always verify which line is selected for cellular data and turn off data roaming on your primary line.
How much mobile data do you need while travelling?
The right amount depends on the length of your trip, your online habits and how often you will have access to Wi-Fi.
Light usage
Maps, a few messages, emails and occasional searches during a short trip.
Moderate traveller
Daily navigation, messages, reservations, social media and regular Internet searches.
One- or two-week trip
A good balance for regular use, a few videos and occasional Internet-based calls.
Heavy usage
Videos, frequent social media use, hotspot sharing or a longer trip.
How do you use a mobile data eSIM?
An eSIM is installed digitally. There is no small physical card to remove, replace or carry.
Choose your destination
Select the country or region you are visiting and the amount of data you need.
Receive your eSIM
After your purchase, you receive the installation information and QR code for your eSIM.
Install the eSIM
Add the eSIM through your phone’s cellular settings before departure or according to the instructions provided.
Connect at your destination
Select the eSIM for mobile data and activate the required settings when you arrive.
How can you reduce mobile data usage?
- Download your Google Maps areas before departure.
- Use hotel Wi-Fi for large updates and downloads.
- Turn off automatic photo backups over mobile data.
- Avoid watching videos in high definition.
- Disable automatic app updates.
- Check each app’s data usage in your phone settings.
- Download movies, music and podcasts before your trip.
- Limit hotspot use with other devices.
Why choose VoyageSIM for your mobile data?
VoyageSIM offers travel eSIM plans for travellers who want Internet access without replacing their physical SIM card. Choose your destination and plan before departure, then install your eSIM directly on your compatible device.
Find my travel data planGet mobile data for your next trip
Explore travel data plans for some of the most popular international destinations.
Mobile data while travelling FAQ
Do I need to turn on mobile data when using an eSIM?
Yes. At your destination, the eSIM must be selected as your cellular data line. Depending on the plan and network, data roaming may also need to be enabled on the eSIM line. Always follow the instructions supplied with your plan.
Can I keep my regular phone number?
Yes. On compatible devices, a data eSIM can be used alongside your primary SIM card. You can keep your regular number while using the eSIM for Internet access. Your regular provider may still charge you for calls or messages received on your primary line.
Does a travel eSIM include phone calls?
VoyageSIM plans are primarily data-only plans. You can communicate through Internet-based applications such as WhatsApp, Messenger, FaceTime and Telegram.
Does Google Maps use a lot of mobile data?
GPS navigation generally uses less data than streaming videos or making video calls. You can reduce your usage even further by downloading maps for your destination before travelling.
Can I install my eSIM before departure?
In many cases, yes. It is often better to complete the installation while you still have access to a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Activation and validity rules vary by plan, so always check the instructions you receive.
How do I know whether my phone supports eSIM?
Compatibility depends on the model, country of purchase and whether the device is carrier-unlocked. Check your phone’s cellular settings or the manufacturer’s technical specifications before ordering.
Does an eSIM work without Wi-Fi?
Once installed and connected to a mobile network at your destination, the eSIM provides Internet access without Wi-Fi. An Internet connection is normally required for the initial download or installation.
What happens when all my data has been used?
Your service may stop or become limited, depending on the plan’s conditions. You may need to purchase a new plan or add a top-up when that option is available.
Can I use my eSIM as a mobile hotspot?
Hotspot availability depends on the plan, partner network and your device. When it is permitted, remember that a computer or another phone can use your data very quickly.
How much mobile data do I need for one week?
For light usage, 1 to 3 GB may be enough. For daily maps, social media and occasional videos, a 5 GB plan generally provides more flexibility. Heavy users should consider 10 GB or more.
Choose your mobile data before you travel
Find an eSIM for your destination, install it on your compatible phone and stay connected throughout your trip.
Explore all travel eSIM plans