Saily eSIM review for 2026: my honest experience
Our in-house expert researchers and journalists conduct independent, unbiased testing of eSIM services, assessing their real-life effectiveness and usability.
By staying current with industry developments and openly sharing our transparent testing methodologies, we ensure readers receive accurate, up-to-date insights so they can make informed choices about eSIM solutions.
Learn more
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve landed in a new country only to realize my SIM card doesn’t work or that roaming fees would cost more than the trip itself. So when I heard about Saily, an eSIM built by the team behind NordVPN, I decided to give it a try on my recent trip to Hong Kong.
What stood out right away was how effortless it was to use Saily – no hunting for local SIMs, no confusing setup. It also offers affordable data plans starting at just $1.79, works in 200+ destinations, includes unlimited options, and now offers an optional US (+1) phone number for calls, SMS, and 2FA verification. I was also pleasantly surprised to find built-in privacy tools like a virtual location feature, an ad blocker, and web protection – all things you don’t normally see with travel eSIMs.
In this Saily review, I’ll share how it performed while traveling, how easy it was to activate, and whether its pricing and security features truly deliver.
| ⭐ Rating: | |
| 🥇 Overall rank: | #1 |
| 💵 Price: | Starts from $1.79 (1GB for 7 days) |
| 🌏 Destinations: | 200+ |
| 🛜 Offered cellular networks: | 3G, 4G, 5G |
| 📱 Does it allow phone calls: | ✅ Yes (US phone number) |
| 🔗 Does it support mobile hotspot: | ✅ Yes |
| 📞 Compatibility: | Android, iOS |
| 💳 Payment methods: | Credit or debit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal |
| Coupons: | Saily coupon from 10% |
Saily pros and cons
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests eSIM services using a clear and consistent process. We combine first-hand experience with expert analysis to evaluate features, performance, coverage, and pricing - so you can make confident decisions before your trip. Learn how we test eSIMs.
How does Saily work?
Saily works by using an eSIM technology found in modern smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. Its development team has created apps for these eSIM-compatible devices to deliver cellular data services without a physical SIM card.
eSIM providers, including Saily, are growing in popularity because:
- Activation is quick – download the app and get instant service access without having to wait for a delivery or visit a store
- It’s more secure – protect your data with advanced encryption and enjoy the added security of knowing your SIM can’t get lost or stolen
- There’s less waste – avoid the unnecessary electronic hardware associated with physical SIM cards and reduce your carbon footprint
Additionally, Saily has many international network partners to offer eSIMs in 200+ destinations worldwide. Managing different countries’ regulations, standards, and procedures on such a large scale is a serious challenge.
Thankfully, with Nord Security's support, Saily appears to have the resources needed to offer a very smooth service, boasting a 4.7-star average rating on Trustpilot and 13,300+ positive reviews.
Plus, the developers have simplified the eSIM activation process, which is another reason why many reviewers are pleased. Download, sign in, subscribe to a plan, follow a few in-app instructions, and your data plan activates in minutes.
Saily plans and pricing
Saily offers 2 main plan lengths: 7 days or 30 days, meaning that the amount of data purchased will be available for that period. The 7-day plan comes with 1GB of data. When purchasing a 30-day plan, you can choose between 3, 5, 10, and 20GB plans. Saily now also offers unlimited plans ranging from 10 to 30 days – perfect if you want to stay connected without worrying about data limits during your trip.
Also, the provider has recently introduced the Saily Ultra plan, which offers unlimited international eSIM data, and 8% cashback benefit, premium support, and extras like a NordVPN subscription. While the short-term plans were more than enough for me in Hong Kong, the Ultra plan seems like a more convenient option for my next backpacking trip, especially if I decide to travel for several months across multiple countries.
The price of a Saily plan depends on the chosen country and goes as low as $1.79 when purchasing 1GB for 7 days.
Here are the prices of the most popular tourist destinations:
| Days | 7 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days | 30 days |
| Data | 1GB | 3GB | 5GB | 10GB | 20GB |
| United States | $3.59 | $8.09 | $12.59 | $20.69 | $33.29 |
| Mexico | $4.49 | $10.79 | $15.29 | $22.49 | $41.39 |
| Italy | $3.59 | $8.09 | $11.69 | $18.89 | $26.09 |
| Spain | $3.59 | $6.29 | $8.99 | $14.39 | $20.69 |
| Japan | $3.59 | $7.19 | $9.89 | $16.19 | $22.49 |
| China | $4.04 | $9.89 | $14.39 | $24.29 | $41.39 |
Additionally, Saily now offers three different types of eSIM plans:
- Local eSIMs – provide data in a single country of your choice, ideal for short trips, layovers, and one-destination vacations
- Regional eSIMs – cover multiple countries in specific regions such as Europe and North America, perfect for business travel, digital nomads, and backpackers
- Global eSIMs – offer coverage in 121 countries in various regions, best suited to the most frequent flyers
Regional plans include flexible data options, even offering unlimited data in some regions, and plans for up to 180 days, depending on your chosen plan, data amount, and region.
Prices on multi-country plans are fair, offering extensive coverage that is very convenient for regular travelers.
| Region | Supported countries | 1GB | 2GB | 3GB | 5GB | 10GB | 20GB | 25GB | 50GB |
| Global | 121 | $8.09 | $14.84 | - | $30.59 | $51.29 | $60.29 | - | $116.99 |
| Europe | 35 | $4.49 | - | $11.24 | $17.54 | $32.39 | - | - | $86.39 |
| Asia and Oceania | 22 | $4.49 | - | $11.24 | $17.54 | $32.39 | - | $44.09 | - |
| North America | 3 | $3.89 | - | $10.39 | $15.59 | $28.59 | $35.74 | - | - |
| Middle East and North Africa | 18 | $8.99 | $10.79 | $14.39 | $25.19 | $40.49 | $49.49 | - | - |
| Latin America | 12 | $7.19 | $12.59 | $18.89 | $28.79 | $40.49 | - | - | - |
| Africa | 35 | $13.49 | - | $35.99 | $44.09 | $62.99 | $80.99 | - | - |
| Caribbean Islands | 29 | $8.09 | - | $18.89 | $30.59 | $42.29 | - | - | - |
Payment methods
You can purchase Saily using four different payment methods: credit or debit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and PayPal. You can instantly purchase the selected plan on the app or on the website.
Saily speed and coverage
Saily is available in 200+ countries and territories, including popular travel destinations such as the US, Europe, Thailand, India, and Japan.
The internet speed you experience with Saily depends on the local providers and the network available in the particular area or country. In most regions, Saily offers 3G, 4G, and LTE browsing speeds, which provided me with a reliable and smooth internet connection for everyday use on my trip to Hong Kong.
However, I noticed that 5G network availability is limited and depends on the telecommunications infrastructure available in each country. While Saily continues to expand its 5G coverage, you can generally expect high-quality connectivity for browsing, streaming, and staying connected while on the go.
Saily features
Saily has essential features designed to make staying connected while traveling as seamless and convenient as possible. Check out the standout features I overviewed below.
Seamless network integration
Saily excels in providing seamless network integration, which makes it incredibly easy to get a reliable and secure internet connection from anywhere.
The app provides the best available network in your location, eliminating the need for manual configurations or switching physical SIM cards. This network selection ensures you always have an optimal connection, whether you're in a bustling city or a remote area.
Beginner-friendly interface
Saily features a minimalistic and clean app interface that’s incredibly easy to use, even for first-time users. I liked that its intuitive design ensures that all essential functions are accessible with just a few taps.
The process of purchasing a data plan and activating the eSIM was quick, straightforward, and user-friendly for me, so I didn’t waste any time between getting off the plane and catching the first train to the city.
Phone number for calls, SMS, and 2FA
Saily has also added a new US phone number feature for $0.99/month. This gives you a second active line on your current device for incoming and outgoing calls, SMS, and 2FA verification.
For me, this makes Saily more practical beyond mobile data. It’s especially useful when you need a number for digital sign-ups, delivery updates, local calls, or verification codes while traveling, without giving out your primary phone number.
Security and privacy features
Saily takes your online safety seriously, so you can browse with peace of mind wherever you are. From blocking annoying ads to protecting your data with web security tools and a virtual location, these features made me feel secure while browsing online abroad.
Saily’s virtual location feature lets you browse the web from 115+ different locations worldwide. It hides your real location and makes it appear like you’re browsing from another country. This helps you access geo-restricted content, use home services abroad, and browse more privately without extra apps or setup. I used this feature to watch a geo-blocked show on Netflix, and it worked flawlessly.
Saily’s built-in ad blocker removes intrusive ads using DNS filtering. This helped to speed up my browsing, reduce mobile data usage, and improve the overall experience. You can enable it with a single tap in the app – no extra extensions or tools needed. However, keep in mind that a few site-hosted ads may still appear.
Saily’s web protection feature helps keep you safer online while traveling. It automatically blocks access to known malicious websites and limits tracking, reducing the risk of phishing and data theft. This extra layer of security works in the background without requiring any manual setup.
Saily Ultra plan
Saily has recently introduced the Saily Ultra plan, a unique feature perfect for digital nomads and frequent travelers. Saily Ultra now has 3 monthly tiers: Standard $26.99/month, Plus $40.49/month, Premium $53.99/month, covering 121 destinations. It also comes with extra perks like access to premium security products, including NordVPN, NordPass, NordLocker, and Incogni, to keep your information secure while traveling. Additionally, you'll receive priority support and 8% cashback on Saily credits.
I believe this plan is perfect for frequent travelers who want fast, secure, and easy internet access worldwide. Since you can purchase it for just a month, it's ideal if you want to travel and work remotely for a few weeks. I'll definitely consider this plan for my next trip, as its benefits are impressive.
Saily customer support
Navigating a new service, especially while traveling, can be stressful. For this reason, Saily offers multiple ways to get the support you need 24/7. Here's a breakdown of its customer support options:
| Support options | Availability |
| 24/7 live chat | ✅ Yes |
| Help center | ✅ Yes |
| Email | ✅ Yes |
| Phone line | ❌ No |
| FAQ | ✅ Yes |
To test Saily's customer service, I examined and tried each available customer service method.
For quick assistance, you can access its live chat feature and connect with a support agent. It took me around 1-2 minutes to locate the live chat option and connect to a real person.
I got all the needed information promptly and even more follow-up details to my questions via email later that day. Saily’s agents are equipped to handle basic inquiries and can definitely guide you through common hiccups.
If you prefer a self-service approach, Saily has a comprehensive help center. Here, I found an FAQ page, troubleshooting guides, and topics to explore and resolve issues on your own. Overall, the support is sufficient for some basic concerns, but if you encounter a technical issue, your best option is to contact an agent via live chat. However, Saily currently doesn’t have phone line support.
Saily compatibility
Saily is available on all mobile phones that support eSIM technology. However, it's always a good idea to double-check before your trip to avoid any surprises. Here’s how you can check if your device supports Saily eSIM:
- Check your phone model. Search online for your specific phone model and eSIM support. This will usually lead you to the manufacturer's website or official specifications list, which will confirm if your phone has eSIM capabilities.
- Look for the settings menu. Many phones allow you to check the compatibility directly within the settings. The exact location might vary depending on your phone's operating system, but common areas to look at include Mobile Network, SIM card management, or Cellular. If you see an option for adding or managing an eSIM, then your phone is compatible.
- Contact your carrier. If you're still unsure, contacting your mobile carrier's customer support is a reliable option. They can confirm eSIM compatibility for your specific phone model and plan.
For more information, check out eSIM compatibility with different devices.
Activating and using Saily
I found that it’s very simple to stay connected with mobile data while you travel with Saily. The apps are minimalist, neatly designed, and easy to navigate. So, how do you start with Saily?
When setting up my own Saily eSIM, I mapped out the key steps involved in buying, activating, and using Saily’s services. Here's my guide to help you get started:
-
Download the Saily app. Head over to the App Store or Google Play Store (depending on which device you’re using) and download the Saily app. This is where you'll manage your eSIM and data plans.
-
Create your account. Once the download is finished, launch the app and register with your Google account or Apple ID.
-
Choose your destination. Within the app, select the country you'll be traveling to.
-
Pick your data plan. Browse the available data plans for your chosen country and select one that matches your data needs and trip duration.
-
Complete the purchase. Follow the on-screen instructions to securely complete your purchase using a valid payment method.
-
Find your eSIM. After purchasing, you'll see your eSIM under the eSIMs tab. Click on the View details button.
-
Install your eSIM. Click on the Install eSIM button within the app. This will guide you to your phone’s settings to install the eSIM profile.
-
Follow the prompts. Your phone may ask a few extra questions, like which card you want to use for iMessage. Just follow the steps – the process usually takes less than 2 minutes.
-
Activate your data plan. Return to the Saily app and find the data plan activation section. With one click, your data plan will activate, usually within seconds.
-
Enable your eSIM for data. Saily also provides easy in-app instructions for enabling your new eSIM, usually by simply switching the default SIM under your mobile data settings.
That's it! You're now ready to enjoy your data plan abroad. If you experience any issues, customer support is available to help.
My personal experience using Saily
Using Saily was incredibly easy and convenient during my recent trip to Hong Kong. The app is straightforward and uncluttered with unnecessary features, making the experience smooth and hassle-free. Here’s how it went:
- When I initially set up Saily, I installed the eSIM on my phone just once. I didn’t need to install a new eSIM for each country I visited, which was a huge time-saver. Once in Hong Kong, I quickly activated my data plan through the app and was instantly connected to the local carrier.
- Halfway through my trip, I ran out of data. Purchasing a new plan was a breeze – within a few taps, I topped up my data and continued using the service without any interruptions.
- One evening, I wanted to watch an episode of my favorite TV series, but due to Netflix’s regional restrictions, it was unavailable in Hong Kong. Luckily, Saily’s virtual location feature allowed me to change my virtual location, allowing me to bypass geo-blocks and watch my show.
- At one point, I encountered a minor issue with my connection. Fortunately, Saily’s 24/7 chat customer support was readily available. I reached out, and the support team was responsive and helpful, resolving my issue quickly.
- Throughout my entire trip, I kept the ad blocker feature enabled. I noticed it significantly reduced my data consumption since heavy ads simply didn't load. Additionally, the web protection feature helped keep me safe while browsing online.
Overall, Saily made my travel experience much more enjoyable. Its easy setup, reliable connection, and helpful customer support ensured I stayed connected without any stress.
Saily eSIM video review
If you want a quick rundown of this eSIM, check out our short Saily video review – it covers everything you need to know in under 8 minutes.
My final verdict: is Saily worth it?
I recommend Saily if you’re looking for a smooth, stress-free way to stay connected while traveling. The app is very intuitive – you can set it up in just a couple of minutes – and I appreciate that it comes with built-in security tools like a virtual location feature, an ad blocker, and web protection, all included at no extra cost. The Saily Ultra plan offers great value for frequent travelers who don’t want to juggle multiple SIM cards or deal with confusing data plans.
Of course, it’s not flawless. While Saily now offers an optional phone number feature for calls, SMS, and 2FA, it currently works as a dedicated US (+1) number and costs $0.99/month. That makes it a useful second line for registrations, travel logistics, and keeping your primary number private, but it may not fully replace your regular mobile number if you need a local number in another country.
Overall, I’d say Saily is perfect for travelers going on short or long trips, digital nomads, and privacy-focused users who want simple, secure connectivity wherever they go. After testing it myself in Hong Kong, I can confirm it delivers reliable coverage and peace of mind abroad.
FAQ
Is Saily good for travel?
Yes, Saily is a good option for travel if you want affordable data and a user-friendly experience. This eSIM offers local plans to avoid roaming charges, but no calls or texts. Saily’s local eSIM plans are mostly cost-effective for single-destination trips.
Is Saily eSIM safe?
Yes, Saily eSIM is safe. It was developed by Nord Security, a reputable company known for its strong commitment to cybersecurity and privacy. It leverages NordVPN's expertise to ensure that your data is protected while using the app, providing a secure browsing experience on your travels.
Does WhatsApp work with Saily?
Yes, WhatsApp works with Saily. You can use Saily’s mobile data for WhatsApp calls and messages, and Saily now also offers an optional dedicated US (+1) phone number that can help users set up a second WhatsApp profile, receive SMS, and complete 2FA verification.
Which is better, Saily or Airalo?
Saily is better than Airalo if you value privacy, simplicity, and extra security. Unlike Airalo, it includes built-in tools like a virtual location, an ad blocker, and web protection at no extra cost. Saily also tends to be cheaper and offers more customer support options.
Should I install Saily eSIM before travel?
Yes, I suggest installing the Saily app before you travel. Since you can't activate the eSIM plan until you have internet access, downloading the app and installing the eSIM beforehand saves time searching and installing it when you arrive.
Does Saily eSIM give you a phone number?
Yes, Saily now offers an optional dedicated US (+1) phone number for $0.99/month. It supports incoming and outgoing calls, SMS, and 2FA verification, making it useful as a second line while traveling or keeping your primary number private.
