Packing for a vacation is the best thing ever. You’re imagining burying your feet in the hot sand while sipping freshly-made cocktails. Or maybe you see yourself reaching the highest peak after an adventure-filled multi-day hike? Whatever it is, you’re about to experience it.
But, like me, you may be forgetting a few minor details that don’t mean much to you now but can cost you a lot of money and stress down the line. I know I did. After getting lost multiple times, paying a fortune, missing a flight, and almost losing my job, here’s one thing I do to make sure my dream holiday doesn’t become a nightmare.
A costly holiday mistake too many of us make every year
Two years ago, I finally had a chance to visit one of my favorite destinations — Italy. Rich wines, mouthwatering pizza, and breathtaking landscapes — I’ll be smiling for two whole weeks or even a month after I get home. Or so I thought. After what ended up to be a great holiday, I came back home only to receive a $528 phone bill. I couldn’t believe it. I expect unplanned expenses when I’m traveling but $528 is extortion. I wasn’t even on my phone that much. Maybe I called home a couple of times and checked out a few YouTube videos. That’s all.
Needless to say, every trip abroad after Italy was nerve-wracking. I kept obsessing about fees I may need to pay for picking up my phone. I was stressed all the time. But last Thanksgiving, my brother-in-law suggested I try eSIMs. He said that eSIM technology is already built into my iPhone. All I need is a prepaid eSIM plan, and I can use carriers in foreign countries without roaming fees.
I was dumbfounded. However, as a non-techie, I immediately imagined eSIMs would be the hassle of a lifetime. Apparently not. You simply download an app, buy a plan, and the plan activates when you arrive at your destination. How neat is that? I had to try it!
How Saily saved my work
My next trip abroad was for work — I had to meet some clients in Canada. Before I left, I decided to give eSIMs a try. This is when I discovered Saily, an eSIM app offering multiple plans, instant activation, and 24/7 chat support. I figured I’ll at least be able to contact Saily directly if anything goes wrong.
I installed the app, picked the 30-day, 3 GB data plan, and paid $12.99. Low and behold, I got a notification about my eSIM being active the moment I landed in Toronto. I didn’t really need the extra data. I just felt relieved I will never have to pay roaming fees again. Little did I know that my eSIM plan would also save my bacon.
I had most of the day to myself, so I jumped on a bus to Niagara Falls. I should have had plenty of time to come back before my evening Zoom call. But the bus broke down on its way back and, after spending two hours roadside, I knew I was in big trouble. Then, I remembered: Don’t I have an eSIM just for cases like this? Yes, I do! I made it back to the city just before my meeting, so I sat down at the first coffee shop I saw. The meeting went great and I didn’t need to use an unsecure public Wi-Fi connection.
eSIMs changed how I travel
I used to try planning everything in advance, which caused me so much anxiety and unhappiness. I even tried buying a SIM card at the airport once but I just couldn’t make it work. I’ve used Saily eSIMs on three trips now — they’ve been a game-changer. I’ve saved way over $100 on plans compared to more expensive eSIM providers. But more importantly, I’m so much happier when I travel now. It’s incredible how much of a difference peace of mind can make.
I now explore foreign cities freely.
I’m not obsessing over roaming costs or hidden fees.
I don’t have to juggle several SIM cards at once.
I securely log into my bank accounts.
I call home whenever I want.
If I ever run out of data, I just top up my account.
It’s so easy.
I’m still not too keen on new technology. I’ll definitely stay with a kettle that doesn’t need Wi-Fi, thank you very much. But eSIMs are one of the best inventions I’ve ever encountered. A true revelation that changed how I travel, and I’m sure it will change how you do, as well.
Mitchell is a tech enthusiast and travel writer who specializes in the latest gadgets that enhance the travel experience. He’s spent years backpacking through Europe and Asia, always on the lookout for the next big thing in travel technology.
