Saily eSIM Review – Saily is an eSIM service for travelers launched in spring 2024 by Nord Security (the team behind NordVPN). The aim is to make mobile data usage abroad easy, secure, and affordable, without physical SIM cards and without traditional roaming charges.
In our review, we write about our experiences with the provider and give you information about its origins, offerings, ease of installation, network coverage, customer service, as well as advantages and disadvantages. In addition, you will find some general information about eSIM technology and real customer experiences in this review.
Saily Company Background Information
Saily was founded with the vision of making mobile connectivity easier, more sustainable, and more secure. Instead of relying on standard plastic SIM cards, the Saily eSIM app gives you direct access to mobile data—easily, digitally, and without waste products or transport routes.
Saily initially offers eSIM packages in 160 countries (we share our experiences from some countries in our article), which give you instant internet access worldwide without having to install a card or visit a store when you arrive at your destination.
Security has been a priority from the outset. The app was developed with built-in protection features so that users can stay online safely and worry-free while traveling.
Saily now covers over 200 destinations. You can choose between local, regional, and global data plans.
What strikes you when you follow Saily for a while is that they are continuously working to expand network coverage, optimize the user experience, offer more data plans, and keep travelers reliably connected around the clock.
Saily eSIM Review - What is an eSIM?
eSIM is short for embedded SIM, a programmable SIM card that is permanently installed in the device. Instead of inserting a regular plastic SIM card, with eSIM a digital SIM profile (“profile”) is loaded onto an eUICC chip in the smartphone/tablet/smartwatch. This profile contains exactly the same information as a standard SIM card (e.g., IMSI, authentication key), only it all works digitally.
How does it work from a technical standpoint?
- eUICC chip: Secure storage in the device where multiple provider profiles can be stored.
- Profiles: Each profile belongs to a mobile provider/tariff. You can add, activate, deactivate, or delete profiles in much the same way as you manage apps.
- Download & activation: Installation or activation is usually done via a QR code or directly in the app. The device downloads the encrypted profile from the provider’s SM-DP+ server via the internet (Wi-Fi/mobile network) and installs it on the eUICC.
- Use: After activation, the profile behaves like a normal SIM card, including network registration, data/telephony/SMS (depending on the tariff).
eSIM vs. Traditional SIM
| Topic | Classic SIM | eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Plastic card (Nano-SIM) | Embedded chip in the device |
| Switching | Remove/insert physical card | Load or switch digital profile |
| Quantity | 1 card | Several profiles can be stored in parallel (active slots depend on the device) |
| Durability / Ecology | Requires plastic and logistics | No plastic, no shipping, no transport |
| Security | Physical exchange required | Remote provisioning with strong encryption |
Why should you use an eSIM when traveling (advantages)?
In our experience, an eSIM is one of the most practical and affordable ways to stay connected while traveling, without high roaming charges, complicated SIM card changes, or complicated activations. It makes international travel much easier, more flexible, and often more sustainable.
No expensive roaming charges
With a travel eSIM, you can use local data plans instead of roaming on your regular cell phone contract.
This means you don’t have to worry about high roaming charges and have full control over your costs. You only pay for what you actually use and are not tied to a long-term contract.
Example:
A local eSIM plan for Spain or Thailand often costs just a few euros, while your home provider would charge you many times that amount for the same data volume.
Instant online access with mobile data
You can purchase and activate your eSIM before you leave or install it right after you land. If you install your card before your trip, you’ll save yourself the hassle of waiting in line at the airport shop, changing cards, and the risk of losing your card.
Suitable for:
- Frequent travelers
- Digital nomads
- Short trips and city breaks
- One device – multiple countries & tariffs
With an eSIM, you can store multiple profiles on your smartphone.
You can:
keep your home number (for text messages or calls)
and activate a local eSIM for data.
This way, you can still be reached on your normal cell phone number, but use affordable data packages. Saily, for example, also offers regional eSIMs that are valid in several countries, such as Europe, Asia, or South America.
Faster, more stable internet access worldwide
Saily works with the largest local mobile networks, which usually have very well-developed networks, such as Claro, Vodafone, Movistar, or AT&T.
The result:
Very good network coverage,
4G/5G speed,
and often even automatic network switching when one provider is weaker.
This means you have internet access in cities, on the beach, or in the mountains, without having to swap SIM cards.
Greater security when traveling
An eSIM cannot be stolen or lost because it is permanently installed in the device.
In addition:
Quick replacement is possible if the cell phone is lost (simply reload the profile).
No risk of losing sensitive data when replacing the SIM card.
Saily uses integrated security features such as ad blockers, VPN, and phishing protection.
Sustainable & environmentally friendly
Since no physical card is sent or produced, there is no plastic waste and the cards do not have to be transported.
This saves resources, especially for frequent travelers who would otherwise regularly buy new local SIM cards.
Easy management via apps
Travel eSIMs can be managed in just a few minutes directly via an app:
Check data volume,
extend or change your plan,
activate automatic top-up,
get support via chat.
This is ideal for travelers who prefer uncomplicated, flexible solutions.
Flexible data plans for any length of trip
Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a trip around the world, Saily offers eSIMs with
- short terms (3–7 days),
- medium terms (15–30 days), or unlimited plans for long-term travelers.
What’s more, Saily also offers unlimited options, so you don’t have to worry about your data volume.
How do you install an eSIM from Saily?
Here are instructions on how to install an eSIM from Saily. After review, we can say that installation is quick and easy.
Requirements
Before you begin, please ensure the following:
- Your device supports eSIM technology (e.g., iPhones from model XS/XR onwards, many newer Android models). Detailed instructions can be found on the Saily website.
- Your device is not locked (i.e., it is SIM-free).
You have a stable internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data) for the installation. - You have purchased the eSIM data plan from Saily (via the app) or received the QR code/activation data.
- Your device is updated (operating system is up to date).
Step-by-step: Installation on iOS (iPhone)
- First, download the Saily app from the App Store, log in, or create an account.
- Once you are in the app, select your desired destination and data plan and complete the payment process.
- After purchase, simply click “Install eSIM” (or similar) in the app or scan the QR code.
- You will now receive a pop-up notification, which you must confirm to allow the app to add the SIM.
- After a few minutes, a message will appear stating that the eSIM has been installed.
- Make sure that your new line is activated in the iPhone settings under “Cellular” (or “Mobile Data”) and, if desired, selected as the primary data line.
Note: This means that installation ≠ immediate activation. The data plan can often be set to start only at your destination.
Step-by-step: Installation on Android
- Download the Saily app from the Google Play Store and sign up.
- Select your destination and the appropriate data plan.
- In the app, simply click on “Install eSIM” and then confirm the message that appears.
- If automatic installation fails: Go to Settings → Network/Connections → SIM Manager → “Add eSIM” → Scan QR code or enter details manually (SM-DP+ address + activation code).
After adding it, go back to Settings → Data connection → select the eSIM as your active data plan. - Also activate “Data roaming” when abroad.
- Here, too, you can set the data plan so that it only becomes active when you arrive in your destination country.
When should I activate/install the virtual SIM?
- You can install the eSIM before your trip; the profile will then be stored on the device and automatically activated when you connect to a local network.
- Activation (use on the network) typically only occurs upon arrival or after landing. This protects you from using up unnecessary data at home.
- After reviewing, it is best to install your embedded SIM before departure so that you have mobile data available immediately upon arrival.
Practical Tips & Information
- Give your profile a name in the settings, e.g., “Travel eSIM Saily-Thailand,” so you don’t lose track of your eSIM/data plans.
- Ensure that your data roaming is activated, especially if you are traveling abroad and want to be able to use the eSIM immediately upon arrival in your destination country.
- Leave your normal SIM activated if you want to be reachable (for calls/text messages) and only use the eSIM for data.
- Before you travel, check whether your device is compatible with an eSIM or unlocked. There may be restrictions on older devices.
- If an error message appears: Try installing it by manually entering the QR code or SM-DP+ address.
- If you have connection problems in your destination country: Restart your device, select the network manually, and reactivate the plan in the app if necessary.
Saily eSIM Review: Data Plans, App & Customer Service
Security Features
Saily places particular emphasis on security and therefore offers a number of security features for carefree surfing compared to other providers.
The app includes three key features:
Adblocker – protection against advertising & tracking
What it does:
The integrated adblocker filters advertising content at the network level before it is even loaded onto your device. This includes, for example:
Pop-ups, banners, and video ads
Tracking scripts that record your surfing behavior
Autoplay videos that consume data volume
Advantages when traveling:
- The ad blocker reduces your data consumption, allowing you to use your data volume for longer
Websites load faster because advertising content is blocked immediately - Networks cannot track you via cookies
- Less risk from malicious advertising (malvertising)
In short: Adblockers ensure faster, safer, and more data-efficient browsing, which is particularly useful when you are traveling abroad with limited data volume.
Web Protection – Protection against dangerous websites & phishing attacks
What it does:
Web Protection checks the internet addresses you visit in real time against an up-to-date security database.
If you try to open an unsafe or fraudulent website (e.g., fake bank sites or phishing links), Saily automatically blocks the connection and warns you.
Advantages:
- Protection against phishing attacks prevents you from entering login or credit card details on fake sites.
- You don’t need to install any additional antivirus or security apps, as this protection is already integrated.
- Web protection recognizes when, for example, public Wi-Fi is classified as an unsecure network.
Example: If you use free Wi-Fi in a café abroad and someone tries to sneak in a fake login page, Saily recognizes the attack and blocks it.
VPN-like data protection – virtual location & encrypted connection
What it does:
Saily uses Nord Security technology to encrypt your data connections and mask your virtual location.
This creates something like a “built-in mini VPN,” which provides greater data protection and security online and gives you advantages when accessing German websites from abroad.
Advantages:
- Your data is protected because third parties cannot intercept your data on foreign Wi-Fi networks.
- Because you are not using your real IP address or location, websites or tracking services cannot see you.
- Some websites or streaming services such as Netflix or other streaming services block content regionally. With virtual location access, you can partially bypass such blocks.
Important: This is not a full-fledged VPN service like NordVPN (if you want a real VPN, take a look here) with a worldwide server selection, but rather an integrated security layer specifically for mobile data traffic – fast, lightweight, and without manual configuration.
Summary:
| Function | Protection Area | Benefits for Travelers |
|---|---|---|
| Ad Blocker | Blocks ads and tracking | Saves data, increases speed, protects against malicious ads |
| Web Protection | Blocks dangerous or fake websites | Protects against phishing and malware, especially in public Wi-Fi networks |
| VPN-like Protection | Encrypts data and masks location | Protects privacy, prevents data theft, ensures secure access abroad |
Overview: What packages are available from Saily (review data plans)?
Saily offers four main categories of plans:
- Local plans (data plans for one country, e.g., Thailand)
- Regional plans (these plans cover a specific region, e.g., Southeast Asia or Europe)
- Global or multi-country packages (you can use these plans in several countries or worldwide)
Here are a few examples of data plans offered for the different categories:
USA (local)
- 1 GB for 7 days from US$ 3.99.
- 3 GB for 30 days from US$ 8.99.
- 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, etc. for 30 days: e.g., 10 GB for US$ 22.99.
- Unlimited plan for 10–30 days on request.
Europe (regional plan approx. 35 countries)
- 1 GB for 7 days starting at US$4.99.
- 3 GB for 30 days approx. US$12.49.
- 5 GB for 30 days approx. US$19.49.
- 10 GB for 30 days approx. US$35.99.
- 50 GB for 90 days approx. US$95.99.
- Unlimited options (e.g., “Unlimited GB” for 10–30 days) starting at ~ US$49.99.
Global / Multi-Country (“Global”)
- 1 GB for 7 days starting at US$8.99
- 2 GB for 15 days approx. US$16.49
- 5 GB for 60 days approx. US$ 33.99
- 10 GB for 180 days approx. US$ 56.99
eSIM review of Saily data plans:
- Data volume and validity period: The more GB or the longer the term, the more expensive it is, but often the daily price per GB becomes cheaper.
- Countries vs. region vs. global: The more countries are covered, the more expensive the rates are, as a rule.
- Unlimited plans: Saily offers unlimited data rates for some regions, so you don’t have to worry about data consumption.
- Currency: Unfortunately, Saily only lists prices in dollars, but after consulting with the Saily team, we were informed that new currencies should be available by the end of the year.
Saily Ultra Review - The Premium Package
With Saily Ultra, you get the complete package for your travels. With this premium subscription, you don’t have to worry about a thing on your trip. Saily Ultra gives you unlimited mobile data, exclusive travel benefits, and first-class digital security, all in one monthly package.
Performance & Price
- Price: $64.99 per month (including all taxes and fees)
- Data volume: 30 GB of high-speed data per month
After that, unlimited data at up to 1 Mbit/s speed, perfect for emails, chats, and navigation - Cancel anytime: You can cancel your subscription at any time either in the app or by contacting the support team
This makes Saily Ultra ideal for frequent travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who wants to be online worldwide.
Exclusive travel benefits
- Access to airport lounges: Enjoy access to comfortable lounges at selected airports worldwide and relax.
- Express security check: Skip long queues at check-in and security (priority) for a relaxed travel experience.
- Flight delay compensation: If your flight is delayed by more than two hours, you will automatically receive lounge access—no paperwork, no hassle.
Digital security & convenience
The Ultra package includes full access to the proven Nord Security tools:
- NordVPN – secure, encrypted connection worldwide
- NordPass – password manager for greater security and convenience
- NordLocker – encrypted cloud storage
- Incogni – privacy service for removing personal data from databases
You also get:
- Virtual location change – choose your online location with just one click
- Ad blocker – block ads and save your data volume
- Web protection – protection against dangerous or fraudulent websites
Additional benefits
- 8% cashback on all your Saily purchases. With every purchase, 8% of the amount will be credited to your account.
- Priority support – your request will be processed immediately.
- Future bonus features: Saily regularly announces additional exclusive travel benefits.
Conclusion: Saily Ultra Review
Saily Ultra is aimed at travelers who want more than just an eSIM. It is a premium service that combines travel, security, and convenience. No hidden costs, no complicated settings.
With this package, you get fast internet, good data protection, lounge access, cashback, and much more, and you can manage everything easily via the app.
Pros and Cons of Saily
✅ Pros of Saily
Easy to use and install: Activating the Saily eSIM is straightforward and takes only a few minutes. After purchase, the eSIM can be installed directly in the app. Other methods include installation via QR code or manually.
Excellent selection of data packages: Saily offers various tariffs for over 200 countries, including regional and global packages. Users can choose between small data volumes for short trips or larger data packages for longer trips.
Good pricing structure: The prices are transparent and fair. Especially for travelers who only need data, Saily is significantly cheaper than conventional roaming and, in our experience, also cheaper than many other eSIM providers.
Security and ad protection: Saily stands out with built-in security features such as ad blockers, web protection, and encrypted connections. These protect against tracking, dangerous websites, and unwanted advertising, making Saily ideal for surfing on public Wi-Fi networks.
Reliable network coverage: Saily works with leading local mobile providers worldwide. This ensures a stable 4G or 5G connection in most countries.
User-friendly app: The app has a clear layout, allows you to easily manage multiple eSIM profiles, and displays your current data usage in real time.
Trust through a well-known brand
Saily is part of the Nord Security group of companies (known for NordVPN). This means that the provider enjoys a high level of trust in terms of data protection and technical security.
❌ Cons of Saily
Data plans only, no phone number: Saily only offers data plans, so traditional phone calls and text messages are not possible. However, if you want to make calls, you can of course use apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or Zoom.
No true “unlimited” in all regions: Although there are plans with unlimited data, these are not available in every country and may be throttled in some countries once certain thresholds are reached.
More expensive in some regions: In certain countries or remote regions, data packages are more expensive than those offered by local SIM card providers.
Network quality varies depending on the country: As with all eSIM services, quality depends on the respective local partner networks. In rural areas, the connection may be weaker.
Only usable on compatible devices: Saily only works on smartphones, tablets, or smartwatches with eSIM support. Older devices or devices tied to a provider (SIM lock) are excluded.
Saily eSIM Reviews from Customers
Customer experiences and reviews of Saily eSIM are mainly positive, as can be seen on Trustpilot. The average rating is 4.7, which is classified as “very good.”
Most customer reports describe positive experiences with Saily. The easy installation and activation of data plans are particularly praised. The intuitive operation of the app and the uncomplicated purchase of data packages are also often mentioned positively.
Customers also appreciate the fast and competent support, which is very helpful and patient when it comes to questions or technical difficulties. Network coverage is generally described as very good, which in our experience varies depending on the country but is generally very good.
Overall, users are very satisfied with the user-friendliness, service, and performance of the app.
The following reviews were posted on Trustpilot:
Reviews regarding customer service:
“Human connection when the chatbot exhausted all options. The person who assisted me gave clear instructions and what I struggled with for 3 hours was sorted out in 5 minutes.”
“Great technical support and very diligent. Very positive and proactive support.”
General reviews:
“Easy to find the right destination and clear download instructions and process. Good prices with lots of options to suit various travel needs.”
“Super easy to setup. Everything was explained well and guided efficently.”
“Easy to download and navigate”
Conclusion: Saily eSIM Review
Saily is a modern, secure, and user-friendly eSIM provider that is particularly tailored to the needs of travelers. The provider offers a good selection of local, regional, and global tariffs at fair prices. A particularly positive aspect is the extremely high priority placed on customer security, as evidenced by the available security features such as web protection, VPN, and ad blockers. The Ultra package offers additional travel benefits and leaves nothing to be desired.
Whether for short trips or longer journeys, everyone is sure to find a suitable tariff at Saily.
For us, Saily is a clear recommendation and one of the best travel eSIMs.
You can find further reviews and comparisons of providers here:
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