The Freedom of Landing Connected: Why I Started Using an eSIM for International Travel

One of the small stresses of international travel that people don’t talk about enough is connectivity.

You land in a new country.
You’re tired.
Maybe a little disoriented.

And the first question becomes:

How do I get internet?

For years, that meant airport SIM kiosks, swapping physical cards, or hoping hotel Wi-Fi worked long enough to call a ride.

It was friction.

And when you travel a lot — friction adds up.

I first heard about Saily on the The Jordan Harbinger Show podcast and decided to try it.

It turned out to be one of the simplest travel upgrades I’ve made.


What Is an eSIM?

An eSIM is basically a digital SIM card already built into most modern smartphones.

Instead of buying a physical SIM in every country, you simply:

  1. Download the app
  2. Choose your destination
  3. Activate a data plan

You can even set it up before you leave home, so you land connected the moment your plane touches down.

No stores.
No waiting.
No language barriers.


My Personal Experience Using Saily

Since installing it, I’ve used Saily across multiple countries while traveling in Asia and internationally.

What stood out most:

  • Affordable pricing compared to roaming
  • Reliable high-speed data
  • Easy setup
  • Seamless switching between countries
  • No physical SIM changes

It’s one of those tools that just works — which is exactly what you want when you’re traveling.


Why Fast Data Matters Even More in China

China operates differently than most countries when it comes to daily life.

Almost everything runs through your phone.

Paying for food.
Taxis.
Metro tickets.
Convenience stores.
Even small street vendors.

Apps like Alipay and WeChat aren’t optional — they’re essential.

Here’s something many travelers don’t realize:

Even if you have international roaming with your home carrier, the data speeds are often extremely slow.

Technically it works.

But practically? It can be painful.

I’ve stood there trying to pay for a taxi while my phone took 60–90 seconds to load a payment barcode.

You can feel the impatience building behind you.

It’s stressful.

With high-speed data through an eSIM like Saily, the experience is completely different.

Payments process instantly.

Just like a local.

And that small difference changes everything.

You move through the country with confidence instead of friction.


An Unexpected Bonus: Internet Access in China

Another benefit I noticed while traveling in China is that international eSIM data often routes through foreign carrier networks.

In practical terms, that meant I was able to access many services that are normally restricted behind China’s internet firewall — without additional setup.

Technology conditions can always change, but my experience was smooth and reliable.

For travelers who rely on Google, WhatsApp, or Western apps, that convenience alone can make a huge difference.


Why This Matters More Than You Think

After losing my wife, travel became part of how I rebuilt my life.

When you’re already stepping outside your comfort zone — new countries, new cultures, unfamiliar systems — small things that reduce stress matter more than people realize.

Being able to message my sons immediately when I land…
Call transportation…
Check directions…
Feel connected…

That creates a sense of safety.

And sometimes, safety is what gives you the confidence to keep exploring.


Who eSIMs Are Perfect For

You’ll especially appreciate this if you:

  • Travel internationally more than once a year
  • Move between countries frequently
  • Work remotely
  • Don’t want airport SIM hassle
  • Want connectivity immediately upon landing
  • Visit places like China where internet access can be complicated

Try It Yourself

If you travel internationally even occasionally, an eSIM is worth having set up before your next trip.

I’ve personally been using Saily across multiple countries, and it’s been one of those simple upgrades that makes travel smoother.

If you want to try it, you can use my referral code:

DERRIK5904

It gives you $5 off your first data plan, and I receive a small credit as well — so it’s a win for both of us.


Pro Tip

Install and activate your eSIM before you leave home so you land connected the moment your plane touches down.

That small detail makes a big difference.


Final Thoughts

Travel doesn’t have to be complicated.

Sometimes the biggest improvements come from the smallest upgrades.

For me, using an eSIM has made the world feel easier to navigate — and a little smaller.

And that’s a good thing.

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