How to Choose a Mobile Plan in Canada

Mobile plans can look similar on the surface, but the “best deal” depends on how you actually use your phone. Here’s a straightforward way to compare plans and avoid surprises.

1) Start with coverage where you live and travel

Before price, check coverage. If a carrier is weak at your home, workplace, or cottage area, the “deal” won’t feel like a deal for long.

2) Estimate your real data usage

If you’re mostly on Wi-Fi, you may not need a huge data bucket.
If you stream video on cellular, data can disappear fast.
Don’t forget hotspot/tethering if you use your phone as internet for a laptop or tablet.

3) Compare the full monthly cost

When comparing, look for:

Promo price vs regular price (what happens after the promo ends?)
Connection/activation fees
Device financing (monthly device cost + plan cost)
Overage rules (some plans slow down; others charge extra)

4) Decide: bring your own phone (BYOP) or finance a phone

BYOP is usually simpler and can be cheaper if you already have a good phone.
Financing can be fine, but make sure you understand the term length and any early-cancellation cost.

5) Think about roaming and travel

If you travel, check roaming rates and whether your plan includes any travel add-ons. For many people, one roaming trip can wipe out “monthly savings.”

Quick checklist

Coverage in your key locations
Data amount + hotspot needs
Total monthly cost after promos
Fees + device financing details
Roaming rules