Can I buy a SIM card at the Vancouver airport?

Yes, you can buy a SIM card at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) upon arrival. Whether you’re arriving as a tourist or an expatriate returning home, the experience at the airport is the same when it comes to buying a prepaid SIM card. This would enable you to be connected immediately, even without having to search for a mobile store in the city

Where to Buy SIM Cards at Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

At YVR, SIM cards are typically available at the following locations:

1. 7-Eleven Stores

Location: International and Domestic Terminals (post-security and arrival areas)
Prepaid SIM cards from major Canadian carriers such as Lucky Mobile, Chatr, Public Mobile, and rarely 7-Eleven SpeakOut are offered through these convenience stores. These packages are ideal for short-term travelers and offer affordable rates for data, calls, and texts

2. The SIM Shop

Location: Level 2, International Terminal (Arrivals Hall)
The SIM Shop sells prepaid SIM cards of various larger carriers in Canada, Rogers, Bell and Telus, and smaller brands like Lucky Mobile, Chatr and Public Mobile. Data, unlimited nationwide calling, and texting are usually included in the plans, and they can be used both in the short and the long term. The shop also offers tourist SIM bundles, suitable to passengers who spend a few weeks in the country, and eSIM for use with compatible devices. These can be activated instantly, without the need for a physical card.

What Carriers Are Available?

You may find SIM cards from these popular Canadian mobile providers:

Rogers
Bell
Telus
Freedom Mobile (limited coverage outside major cities)
Chatr, Lucky Mobile, Public Mobile (budget prepaid brands owned by major carriers)

Prices for plans that include data, unlimited nationwide calling, and texting begin around $25–$50 CAD, depending on what you may require, and most prepaid plans include this kind of cell phone pricing.

eSIM Options at Vancouver Airport

You can get a Canadian cell phone plan without using a physical SIM card, provided your phone is compatible with eSIM (digital SIM).

eSIM options are available at the SIM Shop which are compatible with certain devices.
In addition, worldwide providers can sell eSIMs online beforehand such as Airalo or Holafly, and it can be activated upon arrival in Canada.
eSIMs are the best choice when you would like to bypass the in-store experience and get connected immediately when landing.

What You Need to Buy a SIM Card

An unlocked phone that supports the North American LTE band
A valid photo ID (could be required at some suppliers)
Payment method (cards/ cash)

Most prepaid plans offer a combination of data, unlimited nationwide calling, and texting, with prices starting around $25–$50 CAD, depending on your needs.

Should You Buy at the Airport or in the City?

It is very convenient to buy sim cards in the airport but they may be slightly more expensive when compared to those downtown Vancouver or at the shopping malls. Unless you are staying longer or require more data, you might consider visiting an official carrier store in the city for more options

In conclusion, buying a SIM card at Vancouver Airport is straightforward and can be purchased very conveniently and is traveler-friendly. It’s a great way to get connected right after you land in Canada, where you can navigate, book rides, and stay in touch as soon as you arrive there.

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