Can I make calls or send SMS messages with Saily’s eSIM?

If you are preparing a trip or planning to use an eSIM, you probably already know Saily as one of the most popular options. But before making a decision, there is one question we need to answer as soon as possible: what about calls with Saily eSIM and text messages? Will you be able to call or send messages if you use their service in another country?

The answer is not so straightforward. This can cause issues if you realise it once abroad without coverage, without roaming and without ways to contact anyone. As we do not want this to happen, in this article we explain everything clearly and simply so you avoid unpleasant surprises while travelling. 

Can I make calls with Saily eSIM?

No, with the Saily eSIM you cannot make traditional phone calls. This means if you dial a number as usual, it will not work. Saily’s network is designed only for mobile data, so it does not assign a local phone number or provide voice network support. 

However, this does not mean you cannot communicate by voice. If connected to the internet through your eSIM data, you can use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Skype, Zoom or any other VoIP app. In fact, if your contacts also use these apps, you will not notice any difference. 

Therefore, if you need to stay available by phone in the traditional sense, Saily eSIM calls will not cover that. But if you already use messaging apps and data calls regularly, this will not affect you too much. 

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Can I receive phone calls on my main number while using Saily eSIM?

Pay attention, because this question is very important, especially if you do not want to miss key calls while abroad. 

The good news is that you can still receive calls on your usual number, even while using Saily eSIM. However, there is one condition: your physical SIM must remain active with roaming enabled. The Saily eSIM does not interfere with your primary SIM. So, if you configure both in Dual SIM mode, you will continue receiving calls as usual. 

But if you deactivate the main SIM or remove it from the phone to avoid roaming charges, then you will not receive traditional calls. In that case, you will need to rely on apps like WhatsApp to get internet-based calls, but not with your usual number. 

In short, Saily eSIM calls are not available, but you can still receive normal calls if you keep your original line active. 

Can I send SMS with Saily eSIM?

No. Saily eSIM does not allow sending or receiving traditional SMS. As with voice calls, the service relies on data and excludes any functionality linked to classic text messages. Therefore, you cannot send SMS verification codes, messages to local numbers or quick alerts if you rely solely on the eSIM. 

However, if your usual SIM remains active with roaming, you can still send and receive SMS through that line, although this will involve extra charges. Another option is to use platforms like iMessage (on iOS) or apps like WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal, since they work with data and allow messaging without a mobile network. 

Therefore, if you plan to rely entirely on Saily abroad, you cannot count on sending SMS with Saily eSIM. You will need to choose alternatives depending on your travel needs. 

• Do you want a reliable data eSIM for any destination worldwide? You can find it here: eSIM Holafly.

What would happen if…

Imagine you are Marta and have just landed in Bangkok. You installed your Saily eSIM before boarding and everything works perfectly: fast connection, apps running, Google Maps ready to reach the hotel. But at immigration, they ask you to show your accommodation confirmation… which is in an SMS you received two days ago on your usual number. 

You try to access it, but you have no network to receive that message. You also cannot call the hotel to request a resend. The reason? Only the eSIM is active. Your physical SIM is stored in your backpack… Problem. 

Later, you need to call your bank to validate a purchase abroad. The number is free, but the phone dialler does not connect. You try sending an SMS to authorise the transaction, but it does not send either. At that moment, you probably realise the truth: Saily eSIM calls and SMS are not available. It is not an error, it is simply how Saily works, and you did not know. 

Since we are talking about Bangkok, if you plan to travel to Peru, do not miss this guide about the best eSIM for internet on your trip to Peru. In this guide, you will find country-based plans and practical tips to stay connected. 

Other data eSIM options 

If, after learning Saily’s limits, you are searching for an alternative that better fits your travel needs, do not worry. There are other eSIMs offering more flexibility and better support. Here I highlight two of the most relevant ones. 

Holafly 

Holafly is the favourite choice for many travellers for a very simple reason: it is the most complete. It offers unlimited data plans in more than 160 destinations, so you never worry about running out of data mid-trip. 

Installation is very simple, you can activate the eSIM before travelling and, best of all, it provides 24/7 customer support in English if you face problems abroad. 

Another advantage is that you can keep using your usual WhatsApp number, so you do not lose your chat history or contact identity. In addition, Holafly often offers special promotions and discounts for frequent travellers and allows plans from a few days to longer stays. Coverage is excellent, even in less common destinations, and the website is intuitive without hidden conditions. 

In short, if you want an eSIM that works well, lets you communicate without limits and provides real support when needed, Holafly should be your first option. If you travel around Europe, you can also check this comparison about the best eSIM for internet during your trip to Europe, with advice and detailed plans depending on the country. 

• Do you want a reliable data eSIM for any destination worldwide? You can find it here: eSIM Holafly.
• Do you want to know more about other options? Read our review of Nomad eSIM and our review of Ubigi eSIM.

Airalo 

Airalo is also a very interesting choice if you want a budget-friendly and functional eSIM. Its plan catalogue includes hundreds of countries and you can buy data for days, weeks or even months. In our view, it is ideal for travellers with a tighter budget who do not need huge amounts of data. 

The only drawback we see is that most of its plans do not offer unlimited data and customer support is not always available in Spanish or in real time. Some users also mention that activation is not as intuitive as on a platform like Holafly. 

Still, if price is your priority and you only need to stay connected for maps, social media and basic apps, Airalo works perfectly. But if you expect something closer to a premium service, it ranks slightly below Holafly. 

If you are interested in this option, you can read our review of Airalo eSIM to discover all its pros and cons from real user experience. 

In conclusion, travelling with an eSIM is one of the most practical and comfortable decisions you can make. But before choosing, it is essential to know what you can and cannot do with it. 

In Saily’s case, data connectivity is its strong point, but its limits with traditional calls and SMS may be critical for some travellers. If you need to keep voice or message contact with people who do not use internet apps, or if you must receive SMS codes to access essential services, this eSIM is not for you. 

Fortunately, there are other alternatives like Holafly, which provides more versatility, better support and a traveller-focused approach. Whatever your choice, the most important thing is to be well informed before travelling. Remember, when you are thousands of kilometres from home, connectivity is not only convenience, but also complete peace of mind. 

Frequently asked questions about making calls or sending SMS with Saily eSIM