Best eSIM for International Travel

If you’re wondering about the best eSIM for international travel, this article explains why Saily is the best choice.

It’s your all-in-one travel data companion, powered by the team behind NordVPN

We live in a world that requires us to be connected 24/7. Wherever we go, we need to be online. Whether it’s a holiday or business travel, once we land, we need access to the internet. However, it can get expensive if you’re roaming.

There is a solution to avoid expensive roaming charges. A Saily eSIM will provide you with a reliable and affordable internet connection wherever you are in the world.

And remember this: whether you land in Tokyo, hop to Rome, or travel to Nairobi, you’ll never have to swap SIM cards, hunt café WiFi passwords, or pay outrageous roaming rates. That’s what we all want, surely?.

With Saily eSIM, it’s not a dream — it’s your everyday travel life.

So, let me walk you through everything you need to know. Why Saily is special, the plan options and pricing, how it works, comparisons, and why it’s a smart buy for frequent travellers.

What Is Saily eSIM — At a Glance

Global reach: Coverage in over 190 countries (some sources say 200+).
Flexible data plans: Everything from 1 GB short-term packages to unlimited data options in select destinations.
One eSIM profile (with extras if needed): You install a single eSIM and can manage multiple data plans within that profile — or spin up extra profiles if your trip demands it.
Built-in security suite: A VPN (virtual private network), an ad blocker, and web protection tools are baked in — automatically activating in risky environments like public WiFi hotspots.
Subscription features: Auto top-up and renewal options (so you’re never unexpectedly offline).
Data-only service: At present, Saily supports data access only (no built-in voice calls or SMS).

Why Choose Saily eSIM? — 10 Strong Reasons

One eSIM, boundless travel
Forget carrying a stack of local SIMs or switching cards mid-trip. Saily gives you a digital profile that works across countries. Use the same eSIM, manage your plans in one app.
Global reach and strong local presence
With coverage spanning nearly 200 countries, Saily ensures you’re rarely “off the grid.” And because it partners with local mobile carriers, your connection is often via high-quality networks.
Security, you don’t have to think about
The VPN, ad blocker, and web protection are activated seamlessly. Walk into an airport lounge or open an unknown WiFi — Saily’s security tools kick in when you need them most.
Smart plan flexibility
Whether your trip is a weekend in Paris or a 6-month nomadic journey, Saily offers regional, country-specific, and global plans. You pay only for what you need.
Unlimited data in key markets
Unlimited data plans are now available in around 37 destinations (e.g., the US, Japan, France, Italy, Thailand) plus a Europe-wide unlimited plan covering 36 countries.
This means you don’t constantly stress about running out of bandwidth when streaming, video calling, or uploading.
Auto-renew & top-up ease
You can set your plan to automatically renew or top up when you hit a threshold — so you’re never caught without mobile connectivity.
Transparent, competitive pricing
Saily’s pricing is accessible, especially when compared to local SIM hassles or roaming fees. For example:
- In the US, 1 GB for 7 days costs $3.99, 3 GB (30 days) costs $8.99, and unlimited (various durations) costs from $48.99.In the UK: 1 GB (7 days) is $4.49, 3 GB (30 days) $8.99, up to 20 GB for $31.99, or unlimited options around $48.99.Global plans: 1 GB (7 days) = $8.99, 2 GB (15 days) = $16.49, 5 GB (60 days) = $33.99, 10 GB (180 days) = $56.99, 20 GB (365 days) = $66.99.Europe regional: 1 GB (7 days) = $4.99, 3 GB (30 days) = $12.49, 5 GB (30 days) = $19.49, 10 GB (30 days) = $35.99, etc.
These are baseline figures; actual pricing may vary by region or promotions. NOTE: PRICES WERE CORRECT AT PUBLICATION. OVER TIME, THEY MAY CHANGE.
Powerful for remote work & creative travel
Because Saily maintains solid speeds and avoids frequent drops, it’s ideal for digital nomads who frequently make video calls, upload heavy content, or manage remote work on the go.
Freedom from roaming nightmares
You sidestep hidden roaming charges, unexpected bills, and the drama of buying a SIM card in a foreign airport. Once you’ve set up Saily, your data flows seamlessly.
Backed by NordVPN’s security expertise
Saily isn’t a random startup — it comes from the team behind NordVPN. That gives it street cred in privacy, security, and infrastructure. You’re buying not just data but trust.

How It Works: Simple Setup & Use

Check device compatibility
First, make sure your phone or tablet supports eSIM (most newer iPhones, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, etc.).
Install Saily app (iOS or Android) or go via their web portal.
Choose your destination and plan
Pick between country, region, or global plans. The app will display available data, durations, and prices in US dollars.
Install the eSIM
Use a QR code or in-app flow to load the profile onto your device.
Activate your plan
Plans typically activate when you arrive at your destination or when you first connect to a local network. Some offer delayed activation windows.
Go online
You’re ready to stream, email, upload, message, and roam freely.

If you hit your data cap (on a limited plan), you can top up instantly via the app. And if you opted in, auto-renew keeps you always connected.

What to Know (and Watch Out For)

Data-only service
Saily does not currently support traditional SMS or voice calls — it’s purely for data. You’ll rely on apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, or Skype for voice communication.
Unlimited is limited to certain countries
While unlimited data is a great addition, it’s not yet universal — it is only available in specific destinations and via certain plans.
Performance depends on local infrastructure
In extremely remote or rural areas, network quality may wobble. Saily routes through carriers via roaming agreements, so speeds vary.
Unused data may expire
Many Saily plans expire at the end of the validity period — you can’t always roll over unused quota. Be sure to pick a plan that matches your schedule.
Currency and regional pricing quirks
Saily charges in US$. Depending on your location or payment method, exchange rates or fees may slightly alter the effective cost.

Real Traveller Insights and Reviews

“I can now say Saily is a reasonable service … I experienced no network problems throughout my 17-day trip. The interface is minimalistic and user-friendly.”
— Reddit user review Reddit

“I used a Saily 3 GB data-only eSIM for a week in New Zealand — connected immediately on landing, very few issues.”
— TripAdvisor user Tripadvisor

These real-world testimonials echo one of my own experiences: stable connectivity across borders, no frantic hunt for local SIM shops, and that reassuring sense of security when connecting on unfamiliar networks.

Sample Use Cases and Cost Scenarios

Quick European weekend:
Fly to Paris, cross to Belgium and then Munich — pick the Europe regional plan, say 3 GB for 30 days at US$ 12.49.
You get coverage in 35+ countries without switching.
Month-long US business trip:
Pick the US-specific plan — 5 GB for 30 days at USD 13.99 (or go unlimited if you’re data-heavy)
Year-long global nomad lifestyle:
Use a global plan like 20 GB valid for 365 days at US$ 66.99, topping up along the way or switching to unlimited where available.
Unlimited streamer / remote worker in key markets:
In destinations where unlimited data is supported, you can stream, upload footage, host calls, and travel without worrying about your data usage.

Final Thoughts — Is Saily Worth It?

If your priorities are flexibility, security, and simplicity, Saily is a strong contender — especially for those who travel frequently and don’t want to fight with local SIM logistics. The integrated VPN, ad blocker, and web protection give Saily a standout edge over many eSIM rivals, turning your data connection into a safer, smarter tool.

That said, if you need voice calls or SMS, or travel exclusively in places where unlimited isn’t yet unlocked, you’ll want to complement it with other tools or carefully match your data usage to your plan. Also, set expectations: performance in remote zones won’t always reach city-block speeds.

Overall, for travellers who want freedom, security, and global reach in one sleek digital package — Saily eSIM delivers. It’s the kind of solution I’d happily trust on my next multi-country trip.