Which SIM Should Stay On or Off When Travelling?

Dual-SIM settings

Which SIM Should Stay On or Off When Travelling?

In most cases, keep your Canadian SIM active for your number and texts, but use the VoyageSIM eSIM for mobile data. The essential step is to turn off data roaming on your primary line.

Recommended setup: Canadian SIM on with data roaming off; VoyageSIM eSIM on and selected for cellular data. Enable roaming on VoyageSIM only when the instructions for your plan require it.
Primary SIM: ONKeep access to your number and the ability to receive certain text messages.
Primary data: OFFPrevent your Canadian carrier from using expensive mobile data abroad.
VoyageSIM: data lineSelect the eSIM as your source of mobile Internet while travelling.

Settings to complete before departure

Name both lines clearly
For example, use “Canada” and “VoyageSIM” so you can identify them easily.
Keep the Canadian line enabled
Depending on your carrier, it can continue to receive texts sent to your number.
Turn off data roaming on the Canadian line
This helps prevent accidental cellular-data use and surprise charges.
Set VoyageSIM as the cellular-data line
Also turn off automatic cellular-data switching.
Enable VoyageSIM when you arrive
Follow the installation email. Some plans require roaming to be enabled on the travel eSIM.

Should you turn the Canadian SIM off completely?

Not always. Turning it off almost eliminates the risk of the primary line connecting to a foreign network, but you will no longer receive calls or texts sent to your Canadian number. If you need bank codes, keep the line active while turning off its cellular data and data roaming.

Before deciding, read our guide to receiving bank SMS and 2FA codes abroad.

Choose the setup that matches your goal

Receive bank codesCanadian SIM on, primary data off, VoyageSIM selected for Internet.
Minimize primary-line chargesTurn the Canadian SIM off completely and use only VoyageSIM.
Use WhatsApp or iMessageKeep the apps configured and use your VoyageSIM data connection.
Important: receiving a text, answering a call and sending a message may all be billed differently. Charges always depend on your Canadian carrier and plan.

Where to find the settings on iPhone and Android

Menu names vary by phone model and operating-system version. On iPhone, open Settings > Cellular. On Android, look under Settings > Connections or Network & Internet > SIM Manager. Review each line separately and take a screenshot of your setup before departure.

If your eSIM is not installed yet, follow our guide to installing an eSIM on iPhone and Android.

Frequently asked questions

Should I leave my Canadian SIM enabled?

Yes, if you need to receive texts or keep your number reachable. Turn off cellular data and data roaming on that line.

Which line should I use for mobile data?

Select the VoyageSIM eSIM as your cellular-data line during the trip.

Why might roaming need to be enabled on VoyageSIM?

Some plans connect through partner networks and require it. Always follow the instructions supplied with your eSIM.

Should automatic cellular-data switching stay on?

It is safer to turn it off so your phone cannot automatically switch data back to the Canadian line.

Can I turn off the Canadian SIM after receiving a code?

Yes. You can enable it temporarily when needed and turn it off again, while checking that mobile data remains assigned to VoyageSIM.

Travel with the right settings

Install your eSIM before departure and select the plan that fits your destination.

Choose a VoyageSIM eSIM