Planning to travel outside Canada? Staying connected abroad doesn’t have to break the bank. This guide compares the best international cell phone plans from Freedom Mobile and Videotron to help you find the perfect option for your travel needs.
Table of Contents
Understanding International Roaming Options in Canada
International roaming has evolved dramatically in recent years. Gone are the days when traveling abroad meant automatic bill shock from excessive roaming charges. Today, Canadian carriers offer two main approaches to international connectivity:
Multi-Destination Plans vs. Travel Add-Ons
- Multi-Destination Plans: All-inclusive monthly plans with international roaming built-in. Your plan works the same way abroad as it does at home.
- Travel Add-Ons: Optional monthly add-ons you activate only when traveling. Lower base costs but requires activation before each trip.
The right choice depends on your travel frequency, destinations, and usage patterns. Let’s examine the best options from Freedom Mobile and Videotron.
Freedom Mobile Multi-Destination Plans
Freedom Mobile has revolutionized international travel connectivity with their multi-destination plans. These plans include international roaming as a standard feature—no activation required, no daily charges, no surprises. When you land in a covered country, your phone automatically connects to partner networks and works exactly as it does in Canada.
Freedom Mobile 45GB Multi-Destination Plan
45GB Canada and International
$55/month $75/month Save $20/month
| Data Allocation | 45GB per month |
| Coverage Area | Canada + International destinations |
| Monthly Cost | $55 (promotional pricing) |
| Annual Cost | $660 |
Key Features
- No roaming fees in covered international destinations
- Full-speed 5G/4G LTE data up to your 45GB limit
- Works seamlessly in Canada and abroad—same plan, no activation
- Unlimited calling and texting within covered regions
- Price Freeze Promise protects against future rate increases
- No activation fees or hidden charges
- Automatic connection to partner networks when traveling
International Coverage
This plan works in numerous countries including:
- United States (all states)
- Mexico
- United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain
- Popular European destinations
- Major Asian business hubs (Japan, China, India)
- Caribbean destinations
- Australia and other popular tourist locations
Ideal For: Business travelers making 4+ international trips per year, digital nomads working remotely from multiple countries, frequent leisure travelers, and anyone who wants hassle-free international connectivity without managing add-ons.
Why 45GB Matters
Modern international travel is data-intensive. Video conferencing with colleagues back home, GPS navigation in unfamiliar cities, streaming entertainment during downtime, and staying connected on social media all consume significant data. The 45GB allocation provides comfortable headroom for typical business or leisure travel without constantly monitoring usage.
Typical data usage: A one-week international trip with daily video calls (3-4GB), GPS navigation (500MB), social media (1-2GB), and moderate streaming (5-6GB) totals approximately 10-15GB.
Freedom Mobile 200GB Multi-Destination Plan
200GB Canada-US-Mexico
$50/month $70/month Save $20/month
| Data Allocation | 200GB per month |
| Coverage Area | Canada, United States, Mexico |
| Monthly Cost | $50 (promotional pricing) |
| Annual Cost | $600 |
Key Features
- Massive 200GB data allowance—perfect for heavy users and extended stays
- Seamless connectivity across all three North American countries
- No activation fees, no roaming charges, no surprises
- Stream unlimited Canadian TV, video chat with family, work remotely
- Price Freeze Promise included
- Perfect for RV travelers exploring North America
- Includes unlimited calling and texting in Canada, US, and Mexico
- Use your phone as a mobile hotspot for laptops and tablets
Ideal For: Snowbirds spending 3-6 months in the US, cross-border workers commuting between Canada and the US, RV travelers touring North America, remote workers needing reliable high-speed data, families wanting to stream Canadian content while abroad, and anyone who uses 20+ GB of data monthly.
Perfect for Snowbirds
For Canadian snowbirds who spend winter months in warmer US climates, the 200GB Multi-Destination Plan is exceptional value. At $50/month, it’s competitive with US domestic plans while maintaining your Canadian phone number and all your familiar services.
The 200GB allocation means you can stream Canadian TV shows, video chat with family back home multiple times per week, browse social media, check email constantly, and use your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot for your laptop—all without worrying about data limits.
Real example: A typical snowbird using 2 hours of video calls weekly (8GB/month), daily streaming (30GB/month), web browsing (5GB/month), and email (2GB/month) uses approximately 45GB monthly—well within the 200GB limit.
The Freedom Mobile Advantage
Set It and Forget It
The biggest advantage of Freedom Mobile’s multi-destination plans is simplicity. Your plan works identically whether you’re in Toronto, New York, Paris, or Tokyo (within covered destinations). No need to:
- Activate travel passes before each trip
- Remember to add coverage for specific countries
- Track daily roaming charges
- Worry about bill shock when you return home
- Manage different settings for different countries
Just turn on your phone when you land and stay connected. It’s that simple.
Videotron International Travel Solutions
Videotron, serving primarily Quebec and Eastern Ontario, takes a different approach to international connectivity. Rather than all-inclusive multi-destination plans, Videotron offers flexible travel add-ons that you activate only when needed. This pay-as-you-go model can be more economical for occasional travelers.
Videotron US Travel Add-On
US Travel Add-On
$12/month when activated
| Coverage | United States (all states) |
| What’s Included | Data, calling, texting |
| Activation | Monthly, as needed |
| Commitment | None—add or remove anytime |
How It Works
Videotron’s travel add-on is a module you attach to your existing base plan. Here’s the process:
- Subscribe to a Videotron base plan (typically $45-60/month)
- Before traveling to the US, activate the US Travel Add-On through the Videotron app or website
- Pay an additional $12 for that month only
- Use your plan’s data, calling, and texting in the United States
- Remove the add-on when you return if not traveling again next month
Key Features
- Coverage throughout the United States
- Includes data, calling, and texting (amounts depend on your base plan)
- Add or remove monthly as needed—no annual commitment
- Easy activation through Videotron mobile app
- No long-term contract for the add-on
- Works with most Videotron base plans
- Activate 24 hours before departure for best results
Additional Videotron Travel Options
Beyond the US add-on, Videotron offers:
- Zone-Based International Coverage: Different pricing for different world regions
- Pay-Per-Use Roaming: Available if you forget to activate an add-on (much more expensive)
- Multi-Day Travel Packs: Short-term passes for specific countries
Ideal For: Quebec residents who travel to the US occasionally (1-3 times per year), people who take short US trips (3-7 days), travelers who prefer to control costs by activating coverage only when needed, and those who want lower monthly base plan costs.
Advantages of the Videotron Approach
Flexibility and Control
- Pay Only When Traveling: Your base plan costs less year-round. Add the $12 US coverage only for months you actually travel.
- No Unused Coverage: Unlike always-on international plans, you’re not paying for coverage you don’t use.
- Budget Predictability: Know exactly when you’re adding the $12 charge—no automatic renewals.
- Good for Infrequent Travel: If you only visit the US once or twice per year, this approach saves money.
Limitations to Consider
Important Considerations
- Activation Required: You must remember to activate the add-on before each trip. Forgetting means expensive pay-per-use rates.
- US Only: The standard add-on only covers the United States. International travel requires different add-ons or pay-per-use.
- Geographic Availability: Videotron primarily serves Quebec and Eastern Ontario. Coverage outside these regions is limited.
- More Expensive for Frequent Travel: If you travel monthly, paying $12 each time adds up. A Freedom Mobile plan becomes better value.
- Data Limits: Your available data depends on your base plan, which typically offers less than Freedom Mobile’s multi-destination plans.
Detailed Plan Comparison
Let’s compare these plans across different travel scenarios to help you identify the best option for your specific needs.
For Frequent International Travelers (4+ trips per year)
Winner: Freedom Mobile 45GB Multi-Destination
For anyone traveling internationally more than a few times per year, Freedom Mobile’s all-inclusive approach provides superior value and convenience.
| Aspect | Freedom Mobile 45GB | Videotron + Add-Ons |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $55 (fixed) | $45 base + $12 per travel month |
| Annual Cost (6 travel months) | $660 | $612 ($540 base + $72 add-ons) |
| Coverage Months | 12 months international | 6 months US only |
| Destinations | Multiple countries worldwide | United States only |
| Activation Required | None—always active | Yes—before each trip |
| Data Included | 45GB | Varies by base plan (typically 10-20GB) |
Verdict: While Videotron appears $48 cheaper annually, Freedom Mobile provides year-round coverage in multiple countries (not just the US), double the coverage months, and significantly more data. For frequent travelers, Freedom Mobile offers better overall value.
For Occasional US Travelers (1-3 trips per year)
Winner: Videotron US Travel Add-On
If you only visit the United States a few times annually and don’t need coverage in other countries, Videotron’s flexible add-on saves money.
| Scenario | Videotron | Freedom Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| Base Plan (12 months) | $45 × 12 = $540 | $50 × 12 = $600 |
| US Add-On (3 months) | $12 × 3 = $36 | Included |
| Total Annual Cost | $576 | $600 |
| Savings | $24/year savings | — |
Verdict: For 1-3 short US trips annually, Videotron saves approximately $24 per year. However, Freedom Mobile’s always-on coverage provides peace of mind and works in Mexico too—worth considering for just $2/month more.
For Snowbirds (Extended 3-6 month stays)
Winner: Freedom Mobile 200GB Multi-Destination
The 200GB plan is specifically designed for snowbirds and extended international stays. The massive data allocation is crucial for living your normal digital life abroad.
| 4-Month Arizona Stay | Freedom Mobile 200GB | Videotron + Add-On |
|---|---|---|
| 4 Months in US | $50 × 4 = $200 | Base: $45 × 4 = $180 Add-on: $12 × 4 = $48 Total: $228 |
| 8 Months in Canada | $50 × 8 = $400 | $45 × 8 = $360 |
| Total Annual Cost | $600 | $588 |
| Data Available (US months) | 200GB/month | 10-20GB/month (varies) |
Verdict: While costs are nearly identical (Freedom Mobile is only $12 more annually), the 200GB data allocation makes Freedom Mobile the clear winner for snowbirds. The difference in data availability (200GB vs 10-20GB) is massive and essential for streaming Canadian TV, video chatting with family, and maintaining your digital lifestyle during extended stays.
Quick Comparison Summary
| Feature | Freedom 45GB | Freedom 200GB | Videotron Add-On |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $55 | $50 | $45 base + $12 when traveling |
| Data Included | 45GB | 200GB | Varies (10-20GB typical) |
| Coverage Area | Canada + International | Canada, US, Mexico | US only |
| Activation Required | No—automatic | No—automatic | Yes—manual each trip |
| Best For | Frequent travelers | Snowbirds, heavy users | Occasional US trips |
| Geographic Availability | Nationwide | Nationwide | Quebec, Eastern Ontario |
Real-World Cost Scenarios
Let’s examine specific travel scenarios to see how costs compare in practice.
Scenario 1: One-Week Florida Vacation
7-Day Beach Vacation in Florida
| Plan | Cost for Trip Month | Data Available |
| Freedom Mobile 200GB | $50 (for entire month) | 200GB |
| Videotron Base + Add-On | $57 ($45 + $12) | 10-20GB (varies) |
Winner: Freedom Mobile saves $7 for the month and provides 10x more data.
Scenario 2: Business Traveler (Monthly International Trips)
3-Day International Business Trip Every Month (12 trips/year)
| Plan | Annual Cost | Coverage |
| Freedom Mobile 45GB | $660 ($55 × 12) | Year-round, multiple countries |
| Videotron Base + Add-On | $684 ($45 × 12 + $12 × 12) | 12 months US only |
Winner: Freedom Mobile saves $24 annually and works in more countries than just the US.
Scenario 3: Snowbird (4 Months in Arizona)
November-February in Phoenix
| Need | Freedom 200GB | Videotron |
| Daily Netflix streaming (2 hours) | ✓ 60GB/month used | ✗ Exceeds typical 10-20GB limit |
| Weekly video calls with family (5 hours) | ✓ 20GB/month used | ✗ Would consume most data allowance |
| Social media, web browsing, email | ✓ 10GB/month used | ✓ Covered |
| Total Usage | 90GB/month—well within 200GB | 90GB/month—far exceeds typical limits |
| Result | Comfortable usage without worry | Constant data management required |
Winner: Freedom Mobile 200GB is essential for snowbirds who want to maintain their normal digital lifestyle.
Essential Tips for International Travel
Regardless of which plan you choose, these tips will help you maximize your international coverage and avoid common pitfalls.
Before You Travel
1. Verify Your Coverage
Always confirm your specific destination is covered before you travel. While Freedom Mobile covers many countries, not every destination is included. Check the carrier’s website or app for the complete list of covered countries.
2. Download Offline Content
Even with generous data allowances, downloading content before you leave saves data for when you really need it:
- Maps: Download Google Maps offline for your destination city. Navigate without using any data.
- Entertainment: Download Netflix shows, Spotify playlists, podcasts, and audiobooks while on Wi-Fi at home.
- Documents: Save copies of flight confirmations, hotel reservations, and important travel documents offline.
3. Enable Wi-Fi Calling
Wi-Fi calling lets you make calls over Wi-Fi when cellular coverage is weak. Enable this feature before you travel:
- iPhone: Settings → Phone → Wi-Fi Calling
- Android: Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi Calling
4. Activate Add-Ons Early (Videotron Users)
If using Videotron’s travel add-on, activate it at least 24 hours before departure to ensure it’s fully active when you land. Activate through the Videotron mobile app or website.
5. Update Apps Before Travel
Update all your apps while on home Wi-Fi. This prevents large app updates from consuming your international data.
During Your Trip
1. Monitor Your Data Usage
Check your data consumption daily through your carrier’s app, especially during the first few days. This helps you understand your usage patterns and adjust if needed.
- Freedom Mobile: Use the Freedom Mobile app to track real-time usage
- Videotron: Monitor through the Videotron mobile app
2. Connect to Wi-Fi Whenever Possible
Use Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, airports, and cafes to preserve cellular data for when you truly need it. However, be cautious with public Wi-Fi security:
- Avoid accessing banking or sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi
- Consider using a VPN for added security
- Verify you’re connecting to the legitimate hotel/restaurant Wi-Fi
3. Optimize Your Phone Settings
- Disable automatic app updates: Settings → App Store/Play Store → Automatic Downloads → OFF
- Turn off background app refresh: Prevents apps from using data in the background
- Disable auto-play videos: Stop Facebook, Instagram, Twitter from auto-playing videos
- Lower streaming quality: Netflix, YouTube → Settings → Cellular Data Usage → Save Data
4. Use Airplane Mode Strategically
If you’re in an area without coverage (or in a country not covered by your plan), enable airplane mode to prevent accidental roaming charges and save battery life. You can still turn on Wi-Fi separately while in airplane mode.
5. Test Connectivity Immediately
When you land, make a test call and send a test text to verify everything works. Check data connectivity by loading a webpage. If something isn’t working, troubleshoot immediately rather than discovering issues later.
Data Conservation Strategies
If you’re concerned about data usage, these strategies significantly reduce consumption:
Email Management
- Disable automatic email sync—check manually instead
- Avoid downloading large attachments over cellular
- Use the “download headers only” option if available
Photo and Video
- Disable automatic photo backup to iCloud/Google Photos while on cellular
- Wait until you’re on Wi-Fi to upload vacation photos
- Reduce camera quality for casual snapshots
Streaming Services
- Download shows before travel instead of streaming
- Use “Save Data” mode on Netflix (reduces quality but cuts data usage 75%)
- Listen to downloaded music instead of streaming Spotify/Apple Music
Social Media
- Disable auto-play videos on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
- Use “Data Saver” modes in apps when available
- Limit video uploads until you’re on Wi-Fi
Typical Data Consumption Guide
| Activity | Data Used per Hour | 45GB = How Many Hours? |
|---|---|---|
| Video calls (Zoom, FaceTime) | 500MB – 1.5GB | 30-90 hours |
| Streaming video (HD) | 3GB | 15 hours |
| Streaming video (SD) | 1GB | 45 hours |
| Streaming music | 100MB | 450 hours |
| GPS navigation | 5MB | 9,000 hours |
| Social media browsing | 100MB | 450 hours |
| Email (no attachments) | 10MB | 4,500 hours |
| Web browsing | 25MB | 1,800 hours |
Which Plan Should You Choose?
Your ideal plan depends on your travel frequency, destinations, and usage patterns. Here are our recommendations for different traveler types.
Frequent International Travelers (4+ trips/year)
Recommended: Freedom Mobile 45GB Multi-Destination Plan ($55/month)
Why: Year-round coverage in multiple countries, no activation hassle, always ready to travel. The 45GB handles typical business and leisure travel needs including video calls, navigation, and moderate streaming.
You Save: $400-600 annually vs traditional pay-per-use roaming options. More importantly, you save time and mental energy—no need to activate coverage before each trip.
Snowbirds & Extended Stay Travelers
Recommended: Freedom Mobile 200GB Multi-Destination Plan ($50/month)
Why: The 200GB allocation is specifically designed for people living abroad for months at a time. Stream Canadian TV daily, video chat with family regularly, browse freely—the massive data pool covers everything.
Perfect For: 3-6 month stays in the US or Mexico. At $50/month, it’s competitive with US domestic plans while keeping your Canadian number and services.
Occasional US Travelers (1-3 trips/year)
Recommended: Videotron Base Plan + US Travel Add-On
Why: If you only visit the US a few times annually, Videotron’s flexible add-on approach saves money. Activate the $12 add-on only for months you travel, keeping year-round costs lower.
Note: Only available in Quebec and Eastern Ontario. Must activate before each trip.
Business Travelers
Recommended: Freedom Mobile 45GB Multi-Destination Plan ($55/month)
Why: Business travel demands reliability. Freedom Mobile’s always-on coverage means you’re never caught without connectivity for an important call or email. The fixed monthly cost also simplifies expense reporting—same charge every month, no variable roaming fees to track.
Data Note: 45GB handles intensive business use including daily video conferences, cloud file access, and client communications.
Budget-Conscious Travelers
Recommended: Freedom Mobile 200GB Multi-Destination Plan ($50/month)
Why: This is one of the best value propositions in Canadian wireless. At $50/month with 200GB and North America-wide coverage, it’s cheaper than most domestic-only plans from major carriers. Even if you never travel internationally, it’s an excellent domestic plan.
Bonus: International coverage is included free when you do decide to travel.
RV Travelers & Road Trippers
Recommended: Freedom Mobile 200GB Multi-Destination Plan ($50/month)
Why: RV travelers often use their phone as a mobile hotspot for laptops, tablets, and entertainment. The 200GB allocation supports this intensive usage across Canada, US, and Mexico. Drive freely across borders without worrying about roaming charges or finding Wi-Fi campgrounds.
First-Time International Travelers
Recommended: Start with Freedom Mobile 45GB Multi-Destination Plan
Why: First-time international travelers don’t yet know their usage patterns. The 45GB allocation provides comfortable headroom without anxiety about running out. After your first trip, evaluate whether you need more data (upgrade to 200GB) or could save with Videotron’s occasional approach.
Making Your Final Decision
Bottom Line Recommendation
For most Canadian travelers: Freedom Mobile’s multi-destination plans offer the best combination of value, convenience, and coverage.
Choose the 45GB plan ($55/month) if you travel to various international destinations 4+ times per year or need reliable connectivity for business.
Choose the 200GB plan ($50/month) if you’re a snowbird, RV traveler, or heavy data user who spends extended time in the US or Mexico.
For Quebec residents who travel to the US occasionally: Videotron’s flexible $12/month add-on approach can save money if you only travel 1-3 times per year.
The key question to ask yourself: Do I travel internationally more than 4 days per month on average? If yes, Freedom Mobile’s multi-destination plans almost always provide better value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to activate Freedom Mobile’s international roaming?
No activation is required. International coverage is automatic and built into the plan. Your phone will automatically connect to partner networks when you travel to covered destinations. Just ensure your phone’s roaming settings are enabled in Settings.
Can I use my phone as a mobile hotspot while traveling internationally?
Yes, both Freedom Mobile plans support mobile hotspot functionality. The hotspot uses your plan’s data allocation. This is particularly useful for snowbirds who want to connect laptops and tablets, or for RV travelers who need internet for multiple devices.
What happens if I exceed my data limit abroad?
With Freedom Mobile multi-destination plans, data speeds are typically reduced after you reach your limit rather than charging overage fees. Most carriers send alerts at 90% and 100% of your data limit to help you avoid surprises. You can also monitor usage in real-time through the carrier’s mobile app.
Will my Canadian phone number work while I’m traveling?
Yes, you keep your Canadian phone number while traveling. People calling your Canadian number will reach you internationally (they pay regular Canadian rates to call your number). You can also make calls that appear to come from your Canadian number. This is important for maintaining your Canadian banking, business contacts, and family connections.
Which countries does Freedom Mobile cover?
The 45GB plan covers Canada plus international destinations including the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Japan, China, India, Australia, and popular Caribbean destinations. The 200GB plan covers Canada, United States, and Mexico. Check Freedom Mobile’s website for the complete and current list of covered countries, as coverage areas can expand.
How do I activate Videotron’s US Travel Add-On?
Activate the US Travel Add-On through the Videotron mobile app or website at least 24 hours before your departure. The add-on costs $12 for that billing month and can be removed when you return if you’re not traveling again the following month. Remember to activate it before each trip—forgetting means you’ll pay much higher pay-per-use rates.
What’s the difference between Freedom Mobile’s 45GB and 200GB plans?
The main differences are data allocation and coverage area. The 45GB plan ($55/month) provides 45GB of data and covers Canada plus select international destinations worldwide. The 200GB plan ($50/month) provides 200GB of data but coverage is specifically for Canada, United States, and Mexico only. Choose 45GB for broader international coverage, or 200GB for North America-focused travel with massive data allocation.
Are there any hidden fees with these international plans?
Freedom Mobile’s multi-destination plans have no hidden roaming fees in covered countries—your monthly rate is all-inclusive. Videotron’s add-on charges $12 per month when activated, clearly shown on your bill. Always verify your destination is covered by your specific plan to avoid pay-per-use roaming charges in non-covered countries.
Can I switch between these plans?
Yes, most carriers allow plan changes that take effect on your next billing cycle. However, switching plans frequently may cause you to lose promotional pricing. For Freedom Mobile, you can switch between the 45GB and 200GB plans based on your needs. Contact your carrier to confirm their specific plan change policies.
Do these plans work on cruise ships?
No. Cruise ships operate their own maritime cellular networks with separate (expensive) rates. International travel plans, including Freedom Mobile’s multi-destination plans, do not cover cruise ship networks. Enable airplane mode when on the ship to avoid accidental maritime roaming charges. Use the ship’s Wi-Fi for connectivity instead (usually available for purchase).
Is Videotron available outside Quebec?
Videotron primarily serves Quebec and parts of Eastern Ontario. Coverage outside these regions is limited. If you live outside Quebec/Eastern Ontario, Freedom Mobile (available nationwide) is the better option for international travel plans.
How much data do I really need for international travel?
For a typical one-week trip with moderate usage (GPS navigation, social media, some video calls, email), 10-15GB is usually sufficient. For business travelers with daily video conferences, plan on 15-25GB per week. For snowbirds living abroad and streaming daily, you’ll want 50-100GB per month. The 200GB plan provides comfortable headroom for even the heaviest users.
Disclaimer: Article last updated February 10, 2026. Prices, plan details, coverage areas, and promotional offers are subject to change without notice. Always verify current offerings, pricing, and coverage with carriers before making decisions. This article provides general information and comparisons but should not be considered personalized advice. Coverage quality can vary by location and partner network. Data usage estimates are approximate and actual consumption may differ based on individual usage patterns and device settings.
