Saily works on any eSIM-compatible, carrier-unlocked iPhone and installs straight from its app, with no QR code. Dual SIM lets you keep your own number on for calls while Saily handles your data abroad.
The catch: Saily plans are data only. Calls and texts on a Saily number need its optional US phone number add-on.
An iPhone travel eSIM means no SIM tray, no airport kiosk and no roaming bill from your carrier. You set it up at home on Wi-Fi, and it switches on when you land.
Does your iPhone support eSIM?
Two quick checks tell you if Saily will work. Your iPhone must support eSIM and must not be locked to your carrier.
- Carrier lock: open Settings → General → About and scroll down. If the carrier lock line shows a SIM restriction, your iPhone is locked. If it shows none, you can use Saily.
- eSIM option: open Settings → Mobile Service (Cellular on some iPhones) and look for Add eSIM. If you see it, your iPhone is ready.
How to install Saily on your iPhone
Do this at home on a stable Wi-Fi connection, with the Saily app installed.
- Open the Saily app and tap Install eSIM, pick the device and tap Continue.
- Tap Start eSIM install, then Activate, and press Continue.
- Choose where you’ll use the eSIM (Home or Abroad), select Data Only and tap Continue.
- Tap Done, go back to the Saily app and follow its prompts to turn on the eSIM line and use Saily for mobile data.
If the app install fails, Saily also gives you details for a manual install under Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Use QR Code → Enter Details Manually. Our iPhone setup guide walks through both methods.
How Dual SIM works with a travel eSIM
Many iPhone models support Dual SIM Dual Standby. That means your physical SIM and the Saily eSIM can be on at the same time, so your normal number can still receive calls while Saily carries your data. Your own carrier may charge roaming for those calls, so check its rates before you fly.
iPhone settings that stop roaming charges
Once you arrive, three settings keep your phone on Saily only:
- Turn on Data Roaming for the Saily line: Settings → Mobile Service → select the Saily eSIM → Data Roaming on. Roaming on the Saily line doesn’t add charges from your home provider.
- Turn off your personal line’s data, or switch off “Turn On This Line” for that SIM.
- Turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching under Mobile Data, so the iPhone doesn’t fall back to your home SIM.
iMessage, hotspot and Apple Pay
iMessage runs over the internet, so it keeps working on Saily data. Set it to send from your Apple ID email under Settings → Messages → Send & Receive. You can share data with a laptop through Personal Hotspot, and that data comes out of your Saily balance. At checkout you can pay with a card, PayPal or Apple Pay.
What Saily costs for an iPhone trip
| Destination | Data | Valid for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japan | 5 GB | 30 days | $10.99 |
| Spain Best value | 5 GB | 30 days | $9.99 |
| USA | 5 GB | 30 days | $13.99 |
| Global (121 countries) | 5 GB | 60 days | $33.99 |
Slow speeds after setup? See fixing a slow Saily eSIM on iPhone.
- Installs from the app, no QR code
- Keeps your own number active with Dual SIM
- Apple Pay at checkout
- 200+ destinations
- Data only unless you add the US number
- Carrier-locked iPhones can’t use it
FAQ
Which iPhones work with Saily?
Any iPhone that supports eSIM and isn’t carrier-locked. If you see Add eSIM under Settings → Mobile Service, your iPhone can use it.
Can I keep my own number on while using Saily?
Yes, if your iPhone supports Dual SIM. Your main number can still receive calls, but your carrier may charge roaming for them.
Do I need a QR code to install Saily on iPhone?
No. The app installs the eSIM for you. A manual code is only a backup if the app install fails.
When does the plan start?
It activates automatically when you arrive at your destination. You have 180 days after purchase to activate it.
Plans from $3.99 for 1 GB, checked on saily.com on 24 Oct 2026.