As a traveller, I have been very fortunate to discover many incredible places across the globe. But one place I know and love better than most is Vietnam. It was to Vietnam that I bought my first ever one-way plane ticket, and it ended up being the place I called home for a fair while.
I make sure to go back and visit often, since I can get some very serious withdrawals from the country, the people, the culture, and most importantly, the food! Whether it is the delicious Cao Lầu in Hội An or a big bowl of phở with quẩy in Hanoi, I am always dreaming about the food.
When I do visit, I always make sure to get an eSIM for Vietnam. Having internet on my phone is absolutely vital for navigating local areas, especially when biking between locations, for hotspotting to my laptop so I can work in places with patchy WiFi and watch my favourite TV shows, and for staying in contact with people in Vietnam and at home.
Having spent a sizeable amount of time across the whole of Vietnam, and having tested many different Vietnam eSIMs, I can safely recommend my favourite brand – Saily. In this guide, I will take you through the reasons why I believe Saily is the best eSIM for Vietnam!
How to pick the best eSIM for Vietnam?
When it comes to choosing which eSIM to buy for your travels in Vietnam, I think it is important to consider the following criteria:
- Reliable coverage and decent speeds (access to LTE, 4G, and 5G), with connection to the top Vietnamese phone networks, to ensure you can access the internet throughout your travels across the country, no matter whether you are in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, or Cat Ba.
- Flexible plan durations so you can find something suitable for your trip to Vietnam, whether it is for a week or a whole month.
- The ability to hotspot to your other devices without any daily usage limits, so you can keep up to date with your favourite TV shows on your laptop or tablet, or access your emails if you are a remote worker like me.
- An eSIM that is quick and simple to download, giving you instant access to the internet when you arrive in Vietnam. Bonus points for an eSIM that requires just one single download and can be used globally, saving even more time for future travels!
Drawing upon my experience travelling through Vietnam, using an eSIM on my phone to access the internet, I believe that the brand that best matches this criterion is Saily. Not only does it tick all of the boxes above, but it also goes beyond these with additional features like an ad blocker and web protection (which I will discuss below).
Discover more eSIMs: The best eSIMs for all locations here
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Why I recommend Saily Vietnam eSIM
As mentioned, I have spent a lot of time exploring Vietnam over the years, and throughout this time, I have tested out various eSIM providers. The provider that always comes out best for me, with reliable coverage, great speeds, reasonable prices, and additional useful features, is Saily.
Find out more about the brand in my full Saily eSIM review.
Pros
- Great coverage across Vietnam, from North to South
- Reliable access to 4G, LTE, and 5G networks
- Affordable plans with a variety of lengths and data
- Built-in ad blocker that saves data
Cons
- Data-only (no Vietnamese phone number)
- Coverage may be weaker in very remote areas
Reliable coverage across Vietnam
Vietnam is an incredibly diverse country, with varying landscapes. Mobile coverage can vary depending on where you are, which is why having a reliable eSIM has always been essential for me when travelling here.
I find Saily’s Vietnam eSIM to be consistently reliable across the country, keeping me connected in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as popular destinations like Da Nang, Hội An, and Cat Ba. Whether I am navigating busy streets on a motorbike or accessing my emails in a coffee shop in a small village, the connection is one of the best.
One thing I’ve learned from spending extended time in Vietnam is that WiFi isn’t always something you can rely on. In Airbnbs, hotels, and even cafés, the internet can drop out unexpectedly, especially during busy periods or heavy rain. I regularly use my phone data as a backup while working, and Saily’s eSIM has been a lifesaver during moments when I really needed a stable connection.
Saily partners with top Vietnamese mobile networks, making everyday tasks like using Google Maps, booking Grab rides, messaging on WhatsApp, or hotspotting to my laptop for work smooth and stress-free.
As with any mobile network, coverage can occasionally be weaker in very remote or mountainous regions, such as parts of northern Vietnam. But for the vast majority of travellers sticking to cities, coastal areas, and well-travelled routes, Saily provides fast and reliable coverage throughout Vietnam.
Decent speeds
Vietnam is a fast-moving, energetic country, especially in the big cities. From the constant flow of motorbikes to people always on the go, you really want mobile internet that can keep up with the pace of daily life here.
Saily’s Vietnam eSIM offers reliable access to 4G, LTE, and 5G networks where available, and I’ve consistently found the speeds more than sufficient for everything I need whilst travelling and living in the country. Whether I was in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or working from cafés in Hội An and Da Nang, the connection felt quick and responsive.
Fast speeds are especially important for me as a remote worker. With Saily, I’ve been able to take video calls, upload large files, and hotspot to my laptop when café or apartment WiFi wasn’t cutting it. When the internet drops mid-call (which definitely happens in Vietnam), having a mobile connection that can step in instantly makes all the difference.
Even when out and about, navigating busy streets on a motorbike or hopping between locations, the speeds have been strong enough for seamless map use, messaging, and streaming music or podcasts on the move.
Additional security features
One of the reasons I keep coming back to Saily in Vietnam, and beyond (including the USA, the UK, France, Mexico, and more!), is the extra security features built directly into the app. When you’re constantly browsing new and unfamiliar websites abroad, these tools become particularly useful.
Here’s what’s included:
- Ad blocker: Removes intrusive ads while browsing, which not only makes websites load faster but can also save up to 28% of your mobile data. In Vietnam, where I’m often searching for tours, cafés, bus routes, or local recommendations, this really helps my data last longer.
- Web protection: Automatically blocks access to potentially dangerous or malicious websites. This is especially important when travelling, because you’ll often be clicking through smaller local tour operators, transport sites, accommodation listings, or blogs that you’ve never used before. Having this extra layer of protection gives real peace of mind.
- Virtual location: Allows you to change your virtual location, helping you access familiar apps and content whilst travelling, and keeping your data more secure when using public networks.
All of these features are available directly inside the Saily app, and you don’t even need an active eSIM plan to use them. Once the app is installed, you’re protected!
Whenever I am in Vietnam, I really notice the difference these tools make. The ad blocker means my data stretches further, especially when browsing image-heavy travel sites, whilst the web protection helps me feel more comfortable clicking through unfamiliar pages.
Affordable prices
Vietnam is an extremely budget-friendly country, and I think your mobile data should be the same. Fortunately, Saily offers some of the most competitively priced eSIM plans for Vietnam, making it easy to stay connected without overspending.
Saily’s Vietnam plans start at just US$3.99 for 1 GB (7 days) and scale up to US$28.99 for 20 GB (30 days). For heavier users, there’s also an unlimited data plan for 15 days at US$48.99. This range makes it easy to choose a plan that matches both the length of your trip and how much data you actually need.
Compared to other popular eSIM providers, Saily offers excellent value. Airalo’s Vietnam plans are consistently slightly more expensive at each data tier, whilst Holafly only offers unlimited plans, which can work out pricier if you don’t actually need unlimited data. Plus, you can get Saily’s unlimited data offering for a few dollars less than Holafly, should you need unlimited.
Additionally, Saily’s built-in ad blocker helps reduce data usage by cutting out unnecessary ads, meaning your plan lasts longer and you get even more value for money. In a country like Vietnam, where you’ll be browsing maps, travel guides, cafés, and tour sites daily, this can make a noticeable difference.
Vietnam eSIM price comparison table
| Provider | Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saily | 10 GB | 30 days | US$17.99 |
| Saily | 20 GB | 30 days | US$28.99 |
| Saily | Unlimited | 15 days | US$48.99 |
| Airalo | 10 GB | 30 days | US$20.00 |
| Airalo | 20 GB | 30 days | US$30.50 |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 15 days | US$50.90 |
Who should buy Saily’s eSIM for Vietnam?
As a traveller, adventurer, and remote worker, I recommend the Saily Vietnam eSIM for anyone like me. People who love discovering new places, exploring local areas, and working as they go. But I wouldn’t say their Vietnam eSIM is limited to just these people, I believe all the following would benefit:
- Holidaymakers: Whether you’re exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter, cruising the Mekong Delta, or relaxing on the beaches of Phú Quốc, Saily keeps you connected for maps, Grab taxis, and streaming travel guides or videos. No need to hunt for reliable WiFi, worry about expensive roaming fees, or limit your access to the internet whilst in your hotel!
- Digital nomads: Vietnam is a hotspot for remote work, with cafés and coworking spaces everywhere. It is one of the reasons I spend so much time in Vietnam! Saily’s fast 4G/5G speeds and hotspot capabilities let you stay productive on the go – take video calls, upload files, or work from a beachside café without interruptions.
- Backpackers: With flexible plans from 1 GB to 20 GB and easy top-ups in the app, you can stay online throughout your adventures across the country. Taking pauses when you want to save money. One eSIM is enough for multiple cities – from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An, Da Nang, or Ha Long Bay, without needing to switch providers.
How to get started with Saily
It is really easy to get set up with Saily and their Vietnamese eSIM. I have outlined the process below:
- Check your phone compatibility: Most newer iPhones and Androids support eSIMs, but it’s worth confirming before you buy. Here’s a helpful guide from Saily.
- Pick your plan: Saily offers flexible data options for Vietnam, from 1GB to unlimited (browse them here). Choose the amount of data and duration that suits your trip or daily needs.
- Install your eSIM: After purchasing, you will be provided with clear step-by-step instructions. Activation is fast, and you’ll be online in minutes.
- Download the Saily app: Available for both Apple and Android, this is where you can manage your eSIM. You can also browse new plans and make purchases within the app. If you prefer, you can start this whole process by downloading the app first and purchasing your eSIM plan through there.
- Top up as needed: Running low on data or extending your stay? You can easily add more data without downloading a new eSIM, even when visiting other countries and regions, making it super simple for future travel.
Also heading to Thailand soon? Discover the best eSIM for Thailand here.
My verdict: The best eSIM for Vietnam?
As much as it’s a joy to live and travel in Vietnam, navigating the country can be stressful at times. The streets of Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, with all the bikes weaving in and out of traffic, can be a shock even for seasoned travellers like me.
And with a language I find impossible to pronounce correctly (I can’t tell you how many times I’ve accidentally ordered burnt rice instead of vegetarian rice because the words look and sound the same to me), it can be overwhelming!
Thankfully, with a Saily eSIM, there’s one less thing to worry about. Reliable coverage across the country, fast 4G/5G speeds, and the ability to hotspot to other devices mean I can stay connected wherever I go. With access to awesome translator apps that can pronounce Vietnamese words.
On top of that, Saily’s plans are affordable, flexible, and come with extra tools like an ad blocker and web protection, making it an absolute bargain. It’s easy to top up directly in the app, so I can focus on exploring, eating, and soaking in everything Vietnam has to offer rather than worrying about losing connection or running out of data.
For anyone travelling to or living in Vietnam, whether for work, leisure, or adventure, Saily is my top recommendation for staying connected seamlessly, affordably, and securely.
Whilst you are here, check out all my useful travel guides for Vietnam.
Best eSIM for Vietnam FAQs
Is it worth getting an eSIM for Vietnam?
Yes, absolutely. Having an eSIM in Vietnam is incredibly convenient, especially if you want reliable internet access while travelling. WiFi in hotels, cafés, or hostels can be patchy, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas. An eSIM allows you to stay connected for navigation, messaging, streaming, and even working remotely. With an eSIM like Saily, you get fast 4G/5G speeds, coverage across the country, and features like hotspotting, ad blocking, and web protection, without the hassle of buying a physical SIM.
Is Saily a legit option for Vietnam?
Yes, Saily is a legit and reliable eSIM option for Vietnam. It’s backed by Nord Security (the team behind NordVPN), offers easy setup, and provides stable mobile data coverage across major cities and tourist areas, making it a convenient choice for travellers who want to stay connected without a physical SIM.
Which eSIM is better for Vietnam: Holafly or Saily?
Whilst Holafly only offers unlimited plans, which can be more expensive if you don’t need that much data, Saily provides a wide range of flexible plans – from 1GB to unlimited. Saily also includes extra features like hotspotting, ad blocking, and web protection, making it more versatile for travellers, digital nomads, and backpackers. For most people visiting Vietnam, Saily is the better option.
Which SIM card is best for tourists in Vietnam?
For tourists, an eSIM is often easier than a traditional SIM card, since you don’t need to find a shop, provide ID, or swap physical SIMs. Saily is an excellent choice because it works immediately after download, provides reliable coverage across cities and popular destinations, and allows you to share data with other devices. If you prefer a physical SIM, local Vietnamese providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone are also good, but eSIMs offer more flexibility and convenience.
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