PrepaidSaily eSIM Review (2026)
- Saily: 4.5/5
- 150+ countries
- From $3.99/GB
- Updated June 2026
At a Glance
The good and the not-so-good.
Pros
- Backed by Nord Security — VPN protection on every prepaid plan
- Clean, privacy-focused app with integrated VPN toggle
- No activity logs policy across both eSIM and VPN data
- 150 countries with competitive per-GB pricing
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Email-only support — no live chat, no WhatsApp
- Fixed data plans only — no unlimited daily option
- 150 countries (fewer than Airalo and Holafly)
- Support response 12-24 hours
Saily coverage across 150+ countries
Saily covers 150 countries with prepaid eSIM plans. Coverage is strong in Europe, North America, and popular Asian and Middle Eastern destinations. Gaps exist in parts of Africa, Central Asia, and Pacific island nations. If your destination is covered, everything works without extra steps.
Download speeds on Saily
Saily uses Vodafone in the UK, KDDI au in Japan, and T-Mobile in the US. Speed performance is competitive for a privacy-focused eSIM. 4G LTE and 5G are available on supported networks. The integrated VPN adds minimal latency in our testing.
Saily app experience
Saily's app is the most privacy-conscious in the category. VPN toggles on inside the same app that manages your prepaid eSIM — no switching between apps, no extra login. The checkout flow is clean. App Store: 4.5, Google Play: 4.3.
Saily pricing and plan options
Prepaid plans from $3.99/GB. A 5GB Japan plan costs $9.99. The privacy infrastructure is included at no extra charge — no VPN add-on fee. Plans are competitively priced relative to the privacy-focused category, though above Airalo on direct per-GB comparisons.
Saily customer support
Email-only support with 12-24 hour response times. No live chat, no WhatsApp, no phone line. Support quality is thorough when it arrives. For travelers who need immediate help during a trip, the lack of real-time channels is the main weakness.
Final verdict on Saily
Choose Saily if you connect to public WiFi regularly, access geo-restricted content while traveling, or want VPN protection built into your prepaid eSIM with no extra app. Nord Security's infrastructure is class-leading. For pure coverage and app polish, Airalo wins. For value, Nomad wins. Saily wins on privacy.
Best For
When to choose Saily.
Four traveler types and whether this provider fits each one.
- 01Good fit
Solo traveler
VPN protection covers every hostel WiFi and airport network you pass through. Nord Security's no-log policy applies to both your browsing data and eSIM traffic.
- 02Strong fit
Business traveler
Nord Security's VPN infrastructure clears most corporate IT policies for remote access on hotel and coworking networks across 150+ countries.
- 03Good fit
Family group
Integrated VPN protects every family member on theme park WiFi, airport networks, and hotel connections without extra setup.
- 04Strong fit
Digital nomad
NordVPN integration protects work data across coworking spaces, airport lounges, and public networks in 150+ countries. One account covers both eSIM and VPN.
Not Recommended For
Who should skip Saily
Honest assessment of when another provider is the better choice.
Travelers who need immediate live chat support
Saily is email-only with 12-24 hour response times. If your eSIM fails at the airport, you have no real-time support channel.
Try Holafly insteadTravelers visiting Africa, Central Asia, or Pacific Islands
Saily covers 150 countries. Gaps exist in regions that Airalo and Holafly cover. Check the destination list before purchasing.
Try Airalo insteadHeavy data users who want unlimited capacity
Saily offers fixed GB plans only. No unlimited tier exists. Travelers who burn 15+ GB per week should consider Holafly.
Try Holafly insteadProvider Background
About Saily.
Where Saily came from, who backs it, and why it operates the way it does.
Saily launched in 2023 as a direct product of Nord Security, the Lithuanian company behind NordVPN, NordPass, and NordLocker. Nord Security has a proven track record building privacy tools used by over 14 million people globally, and Saily applies that same infrastructure to prepaid eSIM connectivity. The Vilnius, Lithuania headquarters reflects Nord Security's roots. Unlike competitors that grew from telecoms or travel startups, Saily entered from a cybersecurity background — which is why VPN protection is a native feature rather than a paid add-on. Being a subsidiary rather than an independent startup means Saily had immediate access to Nord Security's engineering team, data centers, and no-logs privacy policy from day one. The product launched covering 150 countries, a significant footprint for a first-year provider. Saily is the newest provider in this comparison, but it enters with the most established parent company and a privacy proposition that no legacy eSIM provider can easily replicate.
Regional Pricing
Saily pricing by region.
Typical plan cost for a 5 GB / 7-day plan across six global regions, based on published rates as of June 2026.
| Region | Typical 5 GB / 7-day |
|---|---|
| Europe | $9.99 |
| Asia | $12.99 |
| Southeast Asia | $10.99 |
| Americas | $11.99 |
| Middle East | $13.99 |
| Africa | $16.99 |
Saily's per-GB pricing sits between Airalo and Nomad across most regions. The key differentiator: all pricing includes NordVPN access, which normally costs $3-5/month separately. Europe is Saily's most competitive region. Africa availability is limited compared to Airalo. For privacy-focused travelers who would pay for a VPN separately anyway, Saily's effective cost per trip is lower than the sticker price suggests.
Plan Options
Plan pricing by data size
Saily plan costs across four popular destinations, verified June 2026.
Japan
| Plan Size | Duration | Price | Per GB |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $3.99 | $3.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $8.99 | $3.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $12.99 | $2.60 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $22.99 | $2.30 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $39.99 | $2.00 |
United Kingdom
| Plan Size | Duration | Price | Per GB |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $3.99 | $3.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $8.99 | $3.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $11.99 | $2.40 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $21.99 | $2.20 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $37.99 | $1.90 |
Thailand
| Plan Size | Duration | Price | Per GB |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $3.99 | $3.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $7.99 | $2.66 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $10.99 | $2.20 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $18.99 | $1.90 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $32.99 | $1.65 |
United States
| Plan Size | Duration | Price | Per GB |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.49 | $4.49 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $9.99 | $3.33 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $13.99 | $2.80 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $23.99 | $2.40 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $41.99 | $2.10 |
Saily sits between Airalo and Nomad on price for most destinations, with the added value of built-in NordVPN. The 10 GB and 20 GB tiers are where Saily becomes competitive with Nomad on raw per-GB price. Thailand and Southeast Asian destinations are the cheapest markets.
Prices verified against Saily website in June 2026. Rates vary by destination and plan availability.
App Experience
Using the Saily app.
Onboarding speed, data tracking, ratings, and what the app does well — and what it does not.
Onboarding steps
4
Time to QR code
Under 2 minutes
iOS rating
4.5
Android rating
4.3
Notable features
- +Integrated NordVPN toggle — one app, one login
- +No-logs privacy policy applied to both eSIM and VPN traffic
- +Clean, privacy-first UI with minimal data collection
- +Biometric login support (Face ID, fingerprint)
Limitations
- -Email-only support — no in-app chat
- -Fewer destinations than Airalo in the app marketplace
Data tracking
Real-time GB tracking with visual usage bar
Saily's app is the most privacy-conscious in the prepaid eSIM category. The single-app integration of eSIM management and NordVPN is the standout feature — travelers toggle VPN on without switching apps or re-authenticating. The checkout flow is four steps and generates a QR code in under two minutes. Data tracking shows real-time GB usage with a visual progress bar. Biometric login is supported on both iOS and Android. App Store 4.5 and Google Play 4.3 reflect strong user satisfaction for a 2023 launch.
Day-to-Day Use
eSIM management features
What you can do inside the Saily app after installation.
| Feature | Available |
|---|---|
| Real-time data tracking | |
| In-app top-up | |
| Pause and resume plan | |
| Multi-profile management | |
| Auto-renew | |
| Expiry alerts | |
| Usage history | |
| Offline QR access | |
| Reinstall eSIM profile |
Saily offers a clean management interface with real-time data tracking displayed as a visual progress bar. The Nord Security integration means your VPN settings persist across eSIM sessions without re-authenticating. Multi-profile management is supported for travelers who switch between destinations. The missing features are auto-renew and pause-resume, which Saily has not yet added since its 2023 launch.
Performance Data
Saily speed test results
Average download speed across tested destinations: 87 Mbps.
| Destination | Carrier | Download (Mbps) | Upload (Mbps) | Latency (ms) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo, Japan | KDDI au | 95 | 24 | 19 |
| London, UK | Vodafone | 88 | 20 | 15 |
| Bangkok, Thailand | AIS | 71 | 16 | 26 |
| New York, USA | T-Mobile | 82 | 19 | 23 |
| Berlin, Germany | Telekom | 79 | 18 | 17 |
| Singapore | Singtel | 108 | 27 | 10 |
Tested using Speedtest by Ookla on iPhone 15 Pro and Pixel 8. Each destination was tested three times at different times of day. Results represent the median reading from each location. Tests were conducted over the provider's assigned carrier network with no VPN active.
Saily's speeds are competitive with Airalo across most destinations. Singapore and Japan show the strongest performance. Enabling NordVPN adds 3-5 ms of latency on average, which does not affect normal browsing or video calls.
Network Coverage
Network partners by country
Saily does not own mobile network infrastructure. It partners with local carriers in each country and resells access on their towers. Your eSIM connects to the same cell towers as local prepaid customers.
| Country | Carrier Partner |
|---|---|
| Japan | KDDI au |
| United Kingdom | Vodafone UK |
| Thailand | AIS |
| United States | T-Mobile |
| Germany | Telekom |
| Singapore | Singtel |
| France | SFR |
| Canada | Rogers |
A "network partner" means Sailyhas a commercial agreement with that carrier to route your data traffic. You get the same towers and coverage area as a local subscriber on that network. Coverage quality ratings reflect urban and suburban reliability based on the carrier's national footprint. Rural and remote coverage varies by country and carrier.
Traveler Feedback
Common praise and complaints.
Aggregated themes from public reviews of Saily across app stores and travel forums. These are recurring patterns, not direct quotes.
What travelers praise
- 1VPN integration praised as the main reason to choose Saily over alternatives — one app, one subscription
- 2Privacy-first policy resonates with remote workers handling sensitive client data while traveling
- 3Checkout flow described as clean and fast — multiple reviews note QR code in under 2 minutes
- 4Nord Security's established reputation cited as a trust signal that overcomes being a newer provider
What travelers complain about
- 1Email-only support with 12-24 hour response times criticized by travelers who needed immediate help
- 2150-country coverage creates gaps that Airalo and Holafly cover — Africa and Pacific missing for some users
- 3No unlimited plan option compared unfavorably to Holafly by heavy data users
- 4Newer provider — some reviews mention less community knowledge available for troubleshooting
Review themes are aggregated from App Store, Google Play, Trustpilot, Reddit (r/eSIM, r/travel), and travel forum discussions. No direct quotes are reproduced. Patterns reflect common feedback as of June 2026.
Buyer Protection
Refund and cancellation policy
Saily's 30-day refund policy in detail.
- Refund window
- 30 days from purchase
- Condition
- Plan must be unused (no data consumed)
- How to request
- Email support@saily.com with order number and reason for refund
- Processing time
- 5-14 business days to original payment method
- Exceptions
- Nord Security standard terms apply. Refunds are not available if the plan expired without use.
Policy details verified against Saily terms of service as of June 2026.
Getting Help
Customer support channels and response times
How to reach Saily when you need help.
| Channel | Avg Response | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 12-24 hours | Fair | |
| Help center | Instant | Good |
| Social media | 24-48 hours | Fair |
Saily support is email-only with 12-24 hour response times. Install and test your eSIM before departure. The self-serve help center is well-organized but limited in scope compared to Airalo.
Setup Guide
How to set up Saily.
Step-by-step instructions for iPhone and Android, plus common issues to avoid.
iPhone setup
- 1
Download the Saily app from the App Store
Account creation is required — Saily links eSIM and VPN to your profile.
- 2
Create a Nord Security account or sign in
Existing NordVPN or NordPass credentials work here.
- 3
Browse and purchase a plan for your destination
Search by country. Pricing shown in USD.
- 4
Tap 'Install eSIM' in the app
Saily supports direct in-app installation — no QR scan required on iOS 16+.
- 5
Go to Settings > Mobile Data and confirm Saily is active
Set as your preferred data line. Keep your primary SIM for calls.
- 6
Enable NordVPN from the Saily app
Toggle VPN on from the home screen. No separate app or login required.
Android setup
- 1
Download the Saily app from Google Play
Account required.
- 2
Sign in with a Nord Security account
Create one if needed — also used for NordVPN.
- 3
Select and purchase your destination plan
Fixed GB plans; no unlimited tier.
- 4
Tap 'Add eSIM' in the app and follow the prompts
QR scan method also available from the confirmation email.
- 5
Set Saily as your preferred data SIM in Android settings
Settings > Network > SIM Manager on most devices.
- 6
Toggle VPN on in the Saily app
NordVPN activates within the Saily interface — no separate installation.
Common gotchas
- 1.A Nord Security account is required. This is not optional — the account links your eSIM plan to VPN access.
- 2.Saily has no unlimited tier. Heavy data users burning 20+ GB per week should consider Holafly instead.
- 3.Support response times are 12-24 hours. Install and test your eSIM before departure, not at the airport.
- 4.The VPN toggle is inside the Saily app, not the system VPN settings. Enable it each session if you need persistent protection.
For device compatibility requirements and a device-agnostic walkthrough, see the full eSIM activation guide.
See It in Action
Saily in top destinations
Countries where Saily performs strongest based on our testing.
FAQ
Common questions about Saily.
Is Saily a good prepaid eSIM provider?
Saily scores 4.5/5 in our 2026 testing across 150+ countries. Saily is backed by Nord Security (NordVPN's parent company) and builds VPN protection into every prepaid eSIM plan. Privacy-first travelers get connectivity and security in a single subscription.
How much does Saily cost?
Saily plans start at $3.99, with per-GB pricing averaging from $3.99/GB across popular destinations as of June 2026. No activation fees, hidden charges, or recurring subscriptions apply.
Does Saily work in my country?
Saily covers 150+ countries as of June 2026, including most of Europe, Asia, North America, and Latin America. Check the provider website for the current destination list.
How do I install a Saily eSIM?
Purchase a plan on Saily's website or app, receive a QR code by email, scan it in your phone settings, and activate as your data line. The process takes under 90 seconds.
Can I get a refund from Saily?
Saily offers a 30-day refund on unused plans. Once an eSIM plan has been activated and data consumed, it is non-refundable. Contact support with your order number to initiate a refund request.
Is Saily safe to use?
Saily is a registered company built by Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN with 14+ million users. Payments are processed through Stripe. Your personal data is handled under the provider's privacy policy. We have tested Saily across multiple countries without security concerns.
Does Saily work on iPhone?
Saily works on iPhone XR (2018) and all newer iPhones that support eSIM. The phone must be carrier-unlocked. Check Settings > General > About on your iPhone to confirm eSIM capability. Installation takes under 2 minutes via QR code scan.
Does Saily work on Samsung phones?
Saily works on Samsung Galaxy S21 and newer, Galaxy Z Flip/Fold series, and Galaxy A54 and newer models with eSIM support. Your Samsung must be carrier-unlocked. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager to add the eSIM after purchase.
Can I use WhatsApp with a Saily eSIM?
WhatsApp works with Saily for messaging, voice calls, and video calls over data. Your WhatsApp account stays linked to your home phone number. You do not need a new number. All WhatsApp data counts against your plan's data allowance.
Does Saily work on cruise ships or flights?
Saily does not work on cruise ships or during flights. eSIM plans connect to land-based cell towers and do not include maritime or aviation satellite coverage. Your plan pauses when you leave terrestrial coverage and resumes when you reach the next port or airport.
About the Reviewer
Written by an independent tester.
Daniel Mercer
Lead eSIM Analyst
Previously at Analysys Mason covering APAC mobile markets (2016-2021)
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