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I tested the Saily eSIM for 30 days in Brazil with a 10GB data plan. The service automatically selects the best available network and allows unrestricted hotspot sharing, unlike local SIM cards which require a Brazilian CPF.
After using several mobile connectivity solutions while travelling, I decided to test Saily during my last stay in a small surf village in northeastern Brazil. The available network varies greatly from one place to another in this town, making it an excellent testing ground for assessing the real-world performance of an international eSIM.
The Saily eSIM for Brazil costs USD 20 for 10GB valid for 30 days. Other available plans include:
In my case, the 10GB plan was perfectly suited for a month of remote work, including daily video calls and regular internet use. This is my third winter in the same location, and most restaurants and cafes offer free Wi-Fi, so I connected to those networks frequently. At the end of the 30 days, I still had nearly half my data remaining, which is why I decided to renew with the 5GB plan for my second month in the country.
The Saily eSIM automatically switches between available operators (Vivo, Claro, TIM, Oi) based on signal quality. In my village in northeastern Brazil, I observed frequent switches between Vivo, Claro, and TIM, always ensuring the best possible connection.
This feature particularly impressed me in areas where only one carrier offered reliable coverage. For example, on one of the main beaches the network is quite weak, but I can always count on Saily to ensure connection to the best available coverage.
Yes, tethering works perfectly with the Saily eSIM. I used this feature daily to connect my laptop during occasional power outages or Wi-Fi disruptions. The speed remains stable even with multiple devices connected.
Installation takes less than 5 minutes. Here’s exactly how it went for me at São Paulo airport:
I was able to order my Uber to the hotel directly from the terminal, without having to search for airport Wi-Fi. If it’s your first time using an eSIM and you installed it before arriving at your destination, you just need to wait a few minutes after turning off airplane mode for your phone to find and connect to the local network.
Brazilian SIM cards require a CPF (Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas), which is similar to a Social Insurance Number. Without this document, which is reserved for residents, purchasing a SIM card becomes extremely complicated:
It’s not impossible to obtain a physical SIM card as a tourist, but friendly advice: for the time and energy it requires as well as all the limitations related to recharging, I strongly recommend opting for an eSIM. Even if you manage to obtain a physical SIM card, online recharging remains a real headache without a valid CPF.
Last year, I used Airalo, which also worked well, but I noticed that for Brazil, an ID card must now be approved at the time of purchase. This adds an extra step to the eSIM installation process. I also found the installation process quicker and easier with Saily, making it my top choice for staying connected in Brazil.
Saily bills in US dollars. To avoid 2.5% conversion fees, use a card with no foreign transaction fees:
These cards also allow you to accumulate points on your purchase, optimizing your travel expenses. My choice was the Wealthsimple Visa Infinite Card, which gives me 2% cash back on all my purchases, even abroad.
Based on my one-month experience, here are my recommendations:
After a month of intensive use in Brazil, the Saily eSIM proved to be a reliable and practical solution. The USD 20 for 10 GB offers competitive value, especially considering the complexity of obtaining a local SIM without a CPF. After my 30-day trial, I renewed my plan for 5 GB, which was sufficient for another 30 days. The automatic network selection made a real difference in areas with variable coverage.
For Canadian travellers heading to Brazil, particularly in less touristy regions, Saily represents a solid alternative to expensive roaming options. The simple installation and Nord Security support add valuable peace of mind.
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