If you've ever crossed the border between the United States and Canada with your phone on, you may have been greeted with a chilling message: “Welcome to Canada. Roaming charges may apply.” And then... the bill comes.

Roaming charges between the U.S. and Canada can be shockingly high, especially if you're on a major carrier without an international plan. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a student, or visiting family across the border, avoiding these fees is a smart move.

Here are five easy and effective ways to avoid roaming charges and stay connected seamlessly while traveling between the U.S. and Canada.

1. Use a Cross-Border Mobile Plan

One of the easiest and most efficient ways to eliminate roaming charges is to get a mobile plan that works in both countries without extra fees.

Try This: UnlimitMobile North America Plan

UnlimitMobile offers local MVNO plans that include:

• Unlimited talk, text, and data in both the U.S. and Canada
• No roaming fees
• Free international calling to select countries

This kind of cross-border plan is ideal for:

• Business travelers
• People living near the border
• Students attending universities in one country and visiting family in another

2. Switch to an eSIM with Dual Profiles

Modern smartphones now support eSIM technology, which allows you to use two networks on one device — one for the U.S., one for Canada.

For example:

• Use your main SIM in the U.S.
• Activate a Canadian eSIM when you travel north

This setup helps you avoid roaming charges by using a local network in each country. UnlimitMobile supports instant eSIM activation with no physical card needed.

3. Disable Data Roaming in Settings

If you’re not planning to use mobile data during your trip, a simple and quick fix is to turn off data roaming entirely.

Steps:

• On iPhone: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Turn off Data Roaming
• On Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Turn off Roaming

This way, you won’t accidentally connect to a partner network that charges you extra. You can still use Wi-Fi for basic connectivity.

4. Use Local or Travel SIM Cards

If you're traveling for a short time, consider purchasing a travel SIM or local prepaid SIM for the country you're visiting.

Example:

• Use your U.S. SIM while in America
• Switch to a Canadian SIM (or eSIM) when crossing the border

While swapping SIM cards can be a hassle, it's a cost-effective option if you don’t travel often.

But here’s the catch: Managing two SIM cards (and numbers) can be inconvenient. That’s why many users prefer dual-SIM phones or a unified cross-border MVNO like UnlimitMobile.

5. Take Advantage of Wi-Fi Calling & Messaging Apps

If you're mostly going to be indoors — at your hotel, university, or office — you might be able to get by with just Wi-Fi and some handy apps.

Use these apps instead of your mobile number:

• WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal for messaging & calls
• FaceTime Audio or Messenger for voice/video
• Google Voice for U.S./Canada number calling over Wi-Fi

Make sure your phone is set to prefer Wi-Fi calling if your carrier supports it — and keep data roaming off.

Conclusion

Roaming charges between the U.S. and Canada are no longer a necessary evil. Whether you’re a cross-border commuter, international student, or occasional traveler, you have smart, affordable options to stay connected without breaking the bank.

UnlimitMobile was designed for people like you — offering affordable cross-border plans, instant eSIM activation, and no surprise fees.

Say Goodbye to Roaming Charges

Check out UnlimitMobile’s North America Plans and enjoy seamless coverage in both the U.S. and Canada — with no roaming, ever.