. Data roaming in Canada is one of the ways to get online, and it is quite expensive. But do not worry! In this article, we will share everything about roaming services in Canada and other alternatives that you can use to be always connected while exploring this stunning country.
Renting Pocket WiFi in Canada & Alternatives: Ultimate Guide for Travelers
Renting a pocket Wifi in Canada is one of the most popular ways to stay connected on your trip. This portable Wifi hotspot fits in your pocket for unlimited browsing, texting, maps, and much more wherever you go in Canada. In this blog post, we will explore the best options and costs accordingly, how to rent, and the best alternative to stay in touch in Canada.
In this article
I. What is Pocket Wifi for Canada?
A pocket Wifi for Canada is a small portable device that delivers wireless Internet for you to use while exploring the country. It creates a wireless hotspot that connects to Canada’s cellular networks.
- How pocket Wifi for Canada works: It functions like a mini home wireless router. Once turned on, it broadcoasts a Wifi signal for up to 15 mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc) to connect to the Internet.
- When to use: Visitors to Canada can use a pocket WiFi when they want easy internet access while sightseeing or traveling between places.
- Suitable for: travelers who want to stay connected on social media, get map directions and message friends and family, or let kids watch videos. It allows whole families and groups to share internet access from one device.
II. Why Renting a Pocket Wifi for Canada Travel?
Getting a pocket Wifi device let you access fast Internet on all of your devices wherever you go in Canada, so you can easily look up information, use maps, etc during your trip.
Benefits of pocket Wifi in Canada
- Connect various devices: Connect tablet, phone, laptop and more from one small device so everyone can use the internet together.
- No roaming fees: You will not have to pay pricey rates for using your home network like you do with roaming.
- Take it anywhere: Pocket WiFi is small and light so you can bring it everywhere in Canada to access the internet easily.
- Easy to utilize: Just turn it on, enter the password and your devices can connect simply to access the internet.
- Reliable connection: You get a secure connection without relying on public WiFi that may not always work well.
Pocket Wifi vs. Other Connectivity Options
Let us compare renting a Wifi pocket in Canada to the other three connectivity choices including Canada SIM card/eSIM, free Wifi, and international roaming in Canada.
Criteria | Canada Pocket Wifi | Canada SIM card/ eSIM | Canada free Wifi | Canada roaming |
Number of devices | Multiple | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Number of users | Entire group | Just yourself | Just yourself | Just yourself |
Data | Unlimited or large options | Depending on package | Limited daily/hourly | Costly charges |
Setup ease | Easy, portable, just turn on + password | Insert SIM card/ download apps, register details | Find locations | Automatic with your phone |
Connection reliability | Reliable | Reliable | May disconnect sometimes | Works like at home |
Costs | Rent for whole trip, pretty expensive | Affordable | Free | Pricey |
► Our recommendation:
Pocket Wifi in Canada is great for traveling families or groups. Everyone can connect multiple devices at once and sharing one pocket Wifi rental tends to be cheaper than paying for separate plans on each device.
If your phone is compatible with eSIM technology, get an eSIM plan for flexibility and fastest data speeds.
III. Canada eSIM – Alternative to Pocket Wifi to Get Internet in Canada
Canada eSIM has become a prevalent connectivity option among travelers to Canada, especially tech-savvy tourists for many reasons:
- No physical SIM needed: eSIM allows you to install a data plan directly on your device digitally without a tiny plastic SIM card.
- Convenient setup: Activating an eSIM plan is quick and easy right from your phone settings.
- Switch providers easily: Change data providers with just a few taps if you find a better plan.
- Always connected: No risk of losing or damaging a tiny SIM card when using eSIM since it is right on your device.
- Better for the environment: Reduce electronic waste compared to physical SIM cards that need replacing.
Getting an eSIM plan for Canada from a prestigious reseller like Gigago does not require you to go through any identification verification. All you need is an eSIM-embedded phone/ tablet/ watch.
Gigago provides visitors with a variety of competitive Canada eSIM packages, starting at just $18.50 for 1GB per day used in 5 days and ranging from $18.50 – $141.90 . No matter how long your trip is and how much data you need, Gigago always has the finest solution for you.
Pro Tip: It is best to opt for the Canada eSIM option that best suits your travel priorities and budget levels.
IV. How to Get a Pocket Wifi for Visitors to Canada?
Tourists may get a pocket Wifi in Canada by ordering it online before your flight or renting directly at Canada airports.
1. Pre-book online before flight
Travelers may pre-order a pocket Wifi device online before you depart for Canada and then pick it up upon arrival at the Canadian airport such as: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Vancouver International Airport (YVR),…. This way, you will have Internet access as the Wifi pocket is ready for you. After your trip, just return it to the arranged location before flying home.
Pros:
- Time to compare providers and plans in advance
- More cost-effective than renting on-site
Cons:
- Collection upon arrival
- Risk of delays if flight is behind schedule
2. Rent directly at Canada Airports
Most major Canadian airports like Toronto Pearson International Airport and Vancouver International Airport have rental counters. You can choose a suitable plan, connect your mobile devices to the Wifi hotspot, and return it to the location before leaving.
Pros:
- Convenient
- No risk of late collection
Cons:
- Limited time to compare rates and options
- More costly than pre-ordering online
► Our recommendation:
Order your Canada pocket Wifi if you can as it offers better value and does not require you to spend time choosing and paying at the airport.
V. How Many Devices can Connect to a Pocket Wifi in Canada
The number of devices that may connect to a pocket Wifi in Canada depends on the device mobile and the provider you choose.
- Up to 5 devices: Standard amount for 1-2 people using phones, laptops, and tablets.
- Around 10-12 devices: Good options for families/groups of 3-6 people with phones, and laptops.
- 15+ devices: Ideal for big groups with lots of connected devices.
Important Notes:
- The more mobile devices connected, the quicker the data gets used up and speeds may slow down. Estimate your group size and usage before deciding.
- Do not connect unnecessary mobile devices at once to save data plans.
- Turn off the pocket Wifi if unused to save battery.
VI. Best Wifi Pockets for Canada Travel and Costs
Deciding which pocket Wifi in Canada to rent depends on your travel needs and budget levels. Canada pocket Wifi rates are pretty expensive. Below is a table comparing the different pocket Wifi options and prices accordingly.
Pocket Wifi in Canada Options | Travel Wifi | MioWifi | Cello Mobile | Hippocket Wifi |
Speed | Up to 150 Mbps | Up to 100 Mbps | Up to 50 Mbps | Up to 50 Mbps |
Rate | $63.6 – $95.6 per week | $64 per week | $349.93 per week | $43.79 per week |
Max devices | 10 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Delivery | $5-$30 | $40 – $50 within Canada | $10-$30 within Canada, US, Mexico | $10-$20 |
Battery life | 12 hours | 12 hours | 10-12 hours | 8-10 hours |
► Our conclusion:
- Generally, MioWifi offers good value at $64 weekly for unlimited data and up to 5 devices
- Travel Wifi offers high speeds of up to 150 Mbps and allows connecting 10 devices
- Hippocket Wifi may be best for Europeans since delivery may be free within Europe.
Pro Tip: To get the best pocket Wifi deals, it is recommended to compare the rental rates and offers from various provider and look for special offers.
VII. FAQs about Canada Pocket Wifi Rental
Is pocket wifi easy to use in Canada?
Yes, pocket wifi in Canada is very straightforward. Just power it on, enter the password and your devices can connect simply to access the internet.
Can I return the pocket wifi early if my trip is shortened?
When renting pocket wifi in Canada, some companies have flexible rental periods and allow you to return the device early. Be sure to check individual policies as there may be a fee if returning before the originally scheduled date.
How do I get help if having issues with the pocket wifi in Canada?
Most rental companies that offer pocket wifi in Canada provide 24/7 customer service via phone, chat or email if you experience any problems during your rental period. Be sure to contact them right away so they can help troubleshoot issues.
VIII. Conclusion
In conclusion, pocket Wifi in Canada provides visitors with a convenient way to keep in touch during their trip. Renting from one of the top companies ensures reliable Internet access. Compare different options and pre-order the pocket Wifi before your trip to get the best carrier and data plan for your needs. If your tablet/phone/watch works with eSIM, just get a Canada eSIM plan to enjoy a seamless, secure, and cost-effective Internet connection.