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Bell Sim Card & eSIM – Detailed Guides for Tourists

Staying connected while traveling is essential for both work and play. This guide reviews Bell SIM card & eSIM and provides detailed recommendations suited for tourists visiting Canada. We’ll compare eSIM versus traditional SIM cards from Bell and then suggest alternative carriers with more tourism-friendly offerings.

By understanding the ins and outs of Bell SIM Card plans in Canada & eSIM, travelers can affordably enjoy reliable connectivity throughout their tripand without long-term commitments. Let’s explore the best ways for international visitors to stay connected on Canada’s mobile networks.

Table of Contents

1. Quick facts about Bell

Bell Mobility is one of Canada’s largest mobile network operators, offering nationwide wireless service since 1986. Currently serving over 10 million subscribers, Bell operates extensive 4G LTE and 5G networks spanning most major metropolitan areas across the country.

• Third-largest telecommunications company in Canada:  Provides internet, mobile, TV, and home phone services to consumers and businesses.
• Founded in 1986:  One of the oldest telecommunications companies in the world.
• Headquarters in Montreal, Quebec:  Operates across all Canadian provinces and territories.
• Part of BCE Inc.:  A public company with Bell Canada as its main subsidiary.
• Known for Canada’s fastest internet and Wi-Fi:  Offers various internet plans with speeds reaching up to 1.5 Gbps.

Bell’s networks cover major population centers well but roaming partnerships help deliver service in smaller towns and rural regions too. In total, through its owned brands Bell Mobility has established itself as a leading full-service provider meeting the connectivity and pricing requirements of Canadian consumers.

2. Canada Bell Coverage and Speed in Canada

Bell coverage and speed in Canada are among the best in the country. Bell claims to have the most extensive 4G network in Canada, covering over 99% of the population. 

2.1. Bell coverage in Canada

Bell’s network has been tested and rated as the fastest major city network in Canada by third parties like Opensignal, PCMag, J.D. Power, and Ookla. However, Rogers/Telus typically have better rural coverage by sharing towers. Bell also offers expanding 5G coverage.

Coverage and speed can vary by location, device, and plan. Rural and remote areas may have weaker signals. Not all devices support 5G/LTE or perform equally. Data caps or throttling after a limit can affect speeds. Check Bell’s coverage map and networks for your area and device.

2.2. Bell speed

In Opensignal’s latest report on mobile networks in Canada:

• Bell shared the top spot for Games Experience with Rogers and Telus, as their users saw no significant difference.
• Bell and Telus jointly won Download Speeds Experience at 75.2 Mbps, 13.7 Mbps faster than Rogers.

In Opensignal’s previous look at 5G networks in Canada :

• Bell solo led in 5G Download Speeds at 173.8 Mbps. This was 12.3% or 19 Mbps faster than Rogers. And 17.6% or 26 Mbps ahead of Telus.
• For key 5G categories across Canada’s regions: Bell, Rogers, and Telus are tied for first in at least three of six regions for: Video, Live, Video Games, Voice Apps

So in summary – Bell has a strong network but tends to be pricier for consumers, while Rogers/Telus balances coverage with competitive plans. The choice depends on location/needs.

3. Bell Connectivity Options for Travelers to Canada

Here are a few connectivity options for travelers to Canada through Bell:

No matter which option you choose, be sure to unlock your phone before you travel to Canada. This will allow you to use a SIM card from any provider.

4. Best Bell SIM Cards for tourists & costs

Bell offers SIM cards/eSIMs for those who want to use their wireless services in Canada. As a telecom not focused on tourist customers, Bell does not seem to have a specific option for tourists visiting Canada.

While Bell has wide coverage, Bell SIM Card Canada policies are inconvenient and pricey for short-term use by tourists. Plans require setting up a Canadian account which involves ID verification and credit checks. Contracts are monthly so SIMs aren’t a good pay-as-you-go option for visitors. You can also buy a SIM card that costs ~ 7 USD and choose a monthly plan that suits your needs. If you buy Bell Monthly Plan you can get a physical SIM card free.

Here is the list of Bell SIM card plans Canada with monthly plans:

While Bell does not have plans specifically tailored for tourists, the options listed above could still allow you to access Bell’s network during your visit. Though not entirely optimized for short-term travel, these plans offer data allotments that can be used for basic tasks like light web browsing and social media usage. However, there may be more travel-friendly options from other providers to compare as well.

5. Does Bell Canada support eSIM?

Yes, Bell offers Bell eSIM on supported devices. However, plan types require setting up a recurring Bell account with a Canadian address and ID documentation. This involves credit checks, contracts, and extended commitments that don’t cater well to short-term visitors.

Bell’s prepaid options also are expensive for tourists staying briefly. Using a Bell eSIM would require leaving the account/number active even after the trip. It’s difficult to purchase an eSIM plan temporarily without establishing residency.

Here are the Bell eSIM Plans and prices for anyone wanting to use Bell eSIM:

So in summary, while Bell does support eSIM technology, their plan structures are not suitable for tourists. 

Alternatives like eSIMs from canada-esim.com are better suited as they offer prepaid monthly options. Options are starting at just $9 for 3 days, up to 30-day packages – perfect no matter your trip length. Daily data allotments of 1-2GB let you navigate. Discover the easiest and most affordable way to enjoy reliable mobile connectivity!

6. Where can you buy a Bell SIM card & eSIM?

Whether you’re visiting or staying long-term in Canada, Bell is one of the major network providers you’ll want to consider. Here are some options for getting a Bell SIM card or eSIM for your trip:

6.1. Where to buy a Bell SIM for Canada

Here are some places where you can buy a Bell prepaid SIM card:

• Bell stores – Bell has its corporate stores located across Canada. These stores will have prepaid SIM cards available for purchase. You can check the list of Bell stores here .

• The Source by Bell – This is Bell’s electronics and accessories retail chain. Stores will carry Bell prepaid SIM card kits.

• Authorized dealers – Bell has agreements with other major wireless carriers and big box retailers to sell their products. Places like Rogers, Telus, Walmart, Best Buy, and Shoppers Drug Mart often have Bell prepaid SIMs.
• Online – You can purchase Bell prepaid SIM cards directly from the Bell website for delivery. Amazon also sells them.
• Major retailers – national chains like 7-Eleven, Circle K, Mac’s stores, and Shell gas stations sell SIM cards as a side business.

• Mobile kiosks – Malls and public spaces sometimes have independent mobile accessory kiosks selling various carrier SIM cards.
• Grey market – Sites like Kijiji, and eBay from private sellers (check for authenticity and activation support).

The best official retail options are Bell stores, The Source, and major national retailers/gas stations for availability, ease of purchase, and activation support.

6.2. Where to buy a Bell eSIM

Here are some options for buying a Bell eSIM:

• Direct from Bell website : You can purchase an eSIM plan or package directly from Bell.ca . This allows you to activate easily the eSIM profile online.
• At Bell store : Visit a Bell retail location to purchase and activate an eSIM plan. It can be set up on a compatible eSIM device by staff.
• Using the MyBell app : If you own an eligible smartphone, you’ll probably be able to register for Bell eSIM through the mobile app immediately without having to go into a store.
• Travel apps : Services like Airalo, and Truphone sell eSIM data passes valid on Bell’s network for tourists.

To sum up, the official website, MyBell app and Bell stores are your best bets. It is necessary to first look at the Canada eSIM Compatible Devices List before switching your mobile plan. As long as the device you intend to use is eSIM compatible, that’s it.

Buying a prepaid SIM card or an eSIM card for Canada online before your trip may be a cheaper and more convenient option. There are some travel SIM cards and eSIM cards that offer coverage in Canada with reasonable prices and data bundles. You can check out Canada eSIM from canada-esim.com for the best deals:

7 days of LTE data from $17. eSIM delivered to your email – simply scan and roam Canada with no worries. Book now at canada-esim.com : 

Browse hassle-free for up to 15 days of high-speed LTE data for just $12:

7. How to activate Bell Canada SIM/eSIM

Once you’ve procured a Bell SIM card or eSIM, activating and using it on your device is straightforward. Here are the basic steps to get connected to the Bell network in Canada:

7.1. How to use Bell Canada SIM Card

Here are the basic steps to use a Bell Canada SIM card:

Step 1 : Activate the SIM card. You can do this online at bell.ca/activate or by calling the activation number on the instruction sheet. You’ll need the SIM ID number.

Step 2 : Insert the SIM card into your unlocked phone. Make sure the gold contacts are facing down, and cut off any extra plastic tabs.

Step 3 : Power on your phone. After getting a new SIM from the Bell network, it might take you several minutes to register before you can make calls and use data.

Tips : Establish a Bell account online to monitor your plan, bills, usage and value-added services such as voicemail. No accounts are needed for prepaid plans.

7.2. How to use Bell Canada eSIM

Here are the basic steps to set up and activate a Bell Canada eSIM:

Step 1 : Go online to buy a Bell eSIM plan.

Step 2 : During signup, give ID, address and credit check info.

Step 3 : Download the MyBell app.

Step 4 : Open the app and tap “Activate eSIM”.

Step 5 : Go ahead, and scan the QR code to set everything up. From now on, your Bell eSIM number will work for calls, texts, and data.

If you’d rather have a step-by-step guide for installing Canada eSIM plans on major devices, we can provide that too. Take a look at our easy guides and videos on how to add eSIM on iPhone, Samsung or Google Pixel. Our Canada eSIM installation guide will help you get set up and connected.

8. Canada Bell Call & SMS rates

In Canada, type of plan, add-on or usage determines call and SMS rates at Bell. These rates are only approximate and change with time, so before using a pay-per-use service, please come back to check whether the figures here were current. Here is a summary of the current pay-per-use call & SMS rates for Bell Mobility:

9. Useful USSD Codes for Bell Canada SIM/eSIM

Here are the quick access codes to check your Bell balance:

One simple and convenient way to access your Bell balance is through the official mobile application MyBell, or by using the official Bell website. Here are the steps to launch and use the app:

• Checking Balance via MyBell App: On your device, start the MyBell app → Balance is at the bottom of the screen → touch this to display your balance and account details → See How: Checking your account balance.
• Via Bell Website: Click login to MyBell → Select Prepaid account.\ → Your balance and account details are displayed.

10. How to top-up Bell Canada SIM/eSIM

There are several convenient methods for topping up your Bell SIM/eSIM, both online and in person. The options include:

11. Alternatives to Bell Canada

The best options for travelers visiting Canada would be to look at other MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators) that offer reliable SIM cards and eSIM, such as:

• Koodo Mobile – Runs on the Telus network, providing reliable nationwide coverage. They offer prepaid options without contracts that are well-suited for travelers. Plans start at around $15 for limited data. Prepaid plans do not require a Canadian ID or credit check, just an online account registration.
• Public Mobile – Runs on Telus’ network. Offers cheap prepaid plans without contracts, including data-only eSIM options suitable for tablets/devices—activation via app.
• Canada eSIM Plans – Offers flexible short-term eSIM data plans on Telus/Koodo networks. Plans start from a few days up to 30 days. Easy digital activation. Sites like Canada-esim.com provide this option.

The above options don’t require a Canadian phone number or identity. They provide reliable connectivity without contracts better suited for temporary visitors than direct provider plans. Just check compatibility with your unlocked device.

How do I choose the right Bell SIM card plan for me?

When choosing a Bell SIM card plan, you need to consider your needs and budget. How much talk, text, and data do you use each month? Do you need international calling? Once you know your needs, you can compare different plans to find the best one for you.

How do I activate a Bell SIM card plan?

To activate a Bell SIM card plan, you can visit a Bell store, call Bell customer service, or activate it online. If you are activating a new line of service, you will need to provide your personal information and choose a plan. If you are porting your number from another carrier, you will need to provide your account information and transfer your phone number.

How do I activate a Bell eSIM?

To activate a Bell eSIM, you can visit the Bell website or use the MyBell app. You will need to create a Bell account if you do not already have one. Once you have created an account, you can follow the instructions on the website or in the app to activate your eSIM.

13. Final words

An eSIM option is offered by Bell but at first glance appears to offer convenience for tourists. To use it, however, requires opening a Canadian mobile account, supplying ID and undergoing a credit check. This means that activation is unsuitable for short visits. Moreover, Bell doesn’t have any truly pay-as-you go plans–the cheapest option is $25/month. However, MVNO prepaid plans have no contracts, lower rates and are more suited to travelers who won’t need phones for a long time. In sum, although Bell’s goal is to bring digital convenience, other carriers and virtual SIM vendors provide better prepaid options for staying in Canada short-term.

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Bell adds Mexico to its Canada/U.S. plans

The company's $105/mo ultimate 155 plan is also discounted to $75/mo right now.

Bell has changed up the two Canada/U.S. mobile plans it offers, adding Mexico to the mix.

The carrier offers ‘Ultimate 150’ and ‘Ultimate 155’ plans with 150GB and 155GB of 5G data, respectively. The plans previously offered access to calling, texting, and data in Canada and the U.S., but as of September 12th, both plans include Mexico at no extra cost. Additionally, the Ultimate 155 plan is on sale, though it’s not clear for how long.

That’s a fairly significant addition to the plans given the high cost of roaming. Bell currently charges $13/day for U.S. roaming and $16/day for international roaming. Frequent travellers can rack up significant savings with one of these Ultimate plans compared to a cheaper plan with the regular roaming package.

Bell’s Ultimate 150 and 155 plans with Canada/U.S./Mexico access.

The Ultimate 150 plan costs $100/mo, while the 155 plan costs $75/mo (usually $105/mo). Both plans include access to Bell’s 5G+ network at the carrier’s “fastest available 5G+ speeds” followed by unlimited use at speeds of up to 512Kbps beyond the data allotment. The plans also include unlimited international texting and HD video streaming, which Bell says is up to 1080p quality. Both plans are only available for new activations, though the Ultimate 150 plan is only for bring-your-own-phone (BYOP) customers, while the Ultimate 155 is available with device upgrades.

Customers can also get 24 months of free Crave Basic with Ads with these plans.

While the overall prices of the plans didn’t change, it’s worth noting that Bell did tweak the discounts offered to customers who choose to get either of these plans and bundle them with the company’s home services. Bell still offers the $30/mo bundle discount, but it dropped the additional $5/mo bill credit from the Ultimate 150 plan and the $10/mo credit from the Ultimate 150 plan.

You can view the plans here .

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No Frills Launches No Name Mobile Cell Phone Plans [Update]

Loblaws’ No Frills has launched prepaid wireless service No Name Mobile, offering “great quality plans” with “low prices”. No Name Mobile is powered by PC Mobile which runs on Bell’s 4G LTE network .

Here are the prices for No Name Mobile, after its auto top-up bonus data is included (when you sign up for pre-authorized credit card payments):

• $19/2GB (1GB top-up bonus)
• $24/5GB (1GB top-up bonus)
• $29/30GB (5GB top-up bonus)
• $34/60GB (5GB top-up bonus)
• $40/85GB (5GB top-up bonus)
• $50/110GB (5GB top-up bonus)

All plans include unlimited calls in Canada and to the U.S., along with nationwide texting and international texting. Call display, three-way calling, voicemail, call waiting and call forwarding are included.

The fine print says a a one-time $5 SIM card charge may apply.

Looking at the data allotments and pricing, it’s better than what flanker brands are trying to push with their $40/10GB plans right now. The $34/60GB plan is offering more data versus the $34/50GB plan from Public Mobile , but the latter has 5G speeds. Freedom Mobile’s $34/50GB 5G Canada-US plan is still better.

Even Videotron’s expanded Fizz pricing is better for the most part ($27/30GB and $29/40GB, for example, and with rollover data).

No Name Mobile says to get started you just buy a SIM card at a No Frills location, then activate online and sign up for its auto top-up “to stay connected”. Signing up for No Name Mobile means you are agreeing to all PC Mobile policies, says the fine print. You also can manage your plan within the PC Mobile app.

Just what we needed–another wireless brand that runs on a ‘Big 3’ network. More ‘choice’ for consumers when really it’s all just the same stuff all over again.

Update April 11, 12:50pm PDT: A No Frills spokesperson told iPhone in Canada in an emailed statement, “no name mobile is here to show Canadians that quality mobile plans don’t need to cost more.”

“Over the next few weeks, the prepaid mobile cards will be available at all No Frills locations across the country. no name is known for quality without sacrifice – giving customers freedom and flexibility in their mobile plans, without the frills,” added the spokesperson.

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Road Trips: How to Plan an Accessible Getaway

By Syren Nagakyrie

Planning an accessible road trip is getting a little easier for people with disabilities. There are more resources created by and for the disability community, and the tourism industry is starting to recognize the value of accessible travel. As a disabled, chronically ill, neurodivergent person, I take road trips every year and have learned some tips and tricks along the way.

Renting a vehicle

Most major car companies offer adaptive driving devices for their vehicles at no additional cost. Enterprise , for example, offers hand controls, left foot accelerators, pedal extenders and spinner knobs to facilitate steering. Budget can provide hand controls, spinner knobs, a panoramic mirror, swivel seats and transfer boards. Be prepared to request adaptive devices at least three business days in advance.

For a wheelchair-accessible van with a ramp or a lift, rent from a mobility company like BraunAbility , one of the largest builders of wheelchair-accessible vans in the country, with rentals at many locations. MobilityWorks , an accessible-vehicle and adaptive-equipment dealer, has rental locations in 34 states. AccessibleGO , which offers a one-stop shop for adapted rental cars and wheelchair-accessible vans, has agreements with 100 wheelchair van rental locations nationwide; request a quote on their website. For accessibleGO’s rental cars, you can request hand controls and a spinner knob at checkout.

Route planning

You can use Google Maps, Waze and MapQuest for initial accessibility research using photos and street view. Google Maps provides directions for some wheelchair-accessible pedestrian and transit routes.

Sites such as Roadtrippers and Furkot can plot an entire itinerary. While these websites are not disability specific, they are invaluable tools. (Roadtrippers does have a wheelchair-accessible check box in the search function.) You can filter by types of destinations such as national parks or museums, and search for hotels and campgrounds. Furkot allows you to input how long you want to drive each day, whether you want to travel on Interstate highways or take more scenic roads. The app will determine the best route and length of time between stops, and suggest where to stay overnight.

Finding lodging

While hotels and other accommodations are required to comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act, many hotels do not meet all accessibility needs. Most of the booking sites list hotels with accessible rooms for those with mobility, hearing and vision needs, but this information is not always verified. Do additional research on review sites and look for photos. Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton and Fairmont hotels offer allergy-friendly and scent-free rooms in some locations. Call the hotel to verify accessibility and to make sure a specific room is reserved for you.

Vacation rentals are typically not required to be A.D.A. compliant, but some do provide accessibility information. Airbnb recently rolled out an adapted category with accessibility search features and homes that have been scanned for accessibility. Review photos and contact the host for more information. Some hosts will make accommodations, such as changing the cleaning supplies or shifting furniture, but document your request using the in-app messaging system so that customer service can help if you run into issues.

Wheel the World is an accessible travel agency offering bookings at over 3,000 verified accessible hotels in the United States. The hotels have been reviewed in person by trained assessors; only those that meet the criteria are listed. Sign up as a disabled traveler or a companion and complete a personal profile that includes options for a variety of disabilities and accessibility needs. The site will provide listings that match your profile with partial, adequate and outstanding match options.

Food and medication

There are a variety of options to keep food or medication cold while traveling. Electric coolers can plug into your vehicle’s 12-volt outlet, but pay attention to the type of cooling mechanism — the less expensive versions are usually thermoelectric and will cool only to about 30 degrees below ambient temperature (if it is 70 degrees in the car, it will cool to 40 degrees). Compressor coolers are more expensive but maintain normal refrigerated temperatures.

Many hotels provide mini-refrigerators. When you know you will be stopping somewhere with a fridge almost every night, layer large ice packs and supplies in a cooler, then top them with another insulating layer like a cooling bag. This keeps everything cold for a couple of days at a time.

It’s also a good idea to travel with a single-burner cooktop — electric to use inside, or propane to use at rest areas and campgrounds — and a camp mess kit so that you can safely cook meals.

Some of the best apps to find food, restaurants and grocery stores that accommodate dietary needs are Fig for allergy-specific options, Happy Cow for vegan-friendly options and Find Me Gluten Free for celiac-safe spots. Add your favorite options to the route-planning app so that you know where to stop.

Finding activities

In addition to the apps mentioned in the route-planning section, state and local tourism organizations are good sources for accessible destinations.

National parks and monuments, which are required to meet federal accessibility guidelines, typically have visitor centers and recreation sites with accessible features. Each park website has information, as well as programs and services within the park. While accessibility varies, you can usually find information on wheelchair-accessible trails and campsites, tactile and audio features, assistive listening devices, and American Sign Language interpreters.

At state parks, accessibility features may not be consistent, but you can usually find some information on each park’s website.

Apps like AllTrails list wheelchair-friendly trails across the country, but the information may not be verified, so contact the park or land manager for verification. Among the parks with notable accessible trails are Redwood National and State Parks, North Cascades National Park, Badlands National Park, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park .

Syren Nagakyrie, the founder of the nonprofit Disabled Hikers and the author of “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Western Washington and Oregon” and “The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Northern California,” among other guidebooks, leads group hikes and conducts assessments throughout the United States.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .