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The Best Wireless Travel Routers of 2024

Pocket routers for Wi-Fi networking on the road

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Frequent travelers battling poor cell service, dubious security, and excessive hotel and airport Wi-Fi fees can benefit from a good travel router when working away from home.

The best wireless travel routers avoid these hassles by letting you set up a private bubble of Wi-Fi anywhere you happen to land, whether in a conference center, hotel room, or airport lounge. 

Most people should buy the TP-Link TL-WR902AC  - it's small enough to chuck in a backpack and can even double as a Wi-Fi range extender. If you also want a cellular connection as backup, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 is for you, as it doubles as a mobile hotspot for your hotel room or car.

What to Look For in a Travel Router

Best overall, tp-link tl-wr902ac travel router.

 Amazon

Compact size is ideal for frequent travelers

Doubles as a Wi-Fi extender

Included cables are short

TP-Link's TL-WR902AC is one of the fastest travel routers we've seen, which is especially impressive at this size and price. Measuring 2.64 x 2.91 x 0.9 inches and weighing in at only 8 ounces, it's small enough to carry in a pocket, briefcase, or backpack, so you'll be ready to set up your own Wi-Fi bubble anywhere.

For such a small device, the TL-WR902AC offers impressive dual-band Wi-Fi performance. It's also really versatile since it can be not only be used as a router or access point to create a wireless network but also as a range extender, private Wi-Fi hotspot, or even as a bridge to connect a wired device to a Wi-Fi network by using its built-in Ethernet port in the opposite direction. 

A built-in USB port lets you share files and media from a removable USB storage device, and it can also provide up to 2A of passthrough power to charge your smartphone or tablet. The only real downside is that the port layout can be awkward since the USB and micro USB power ports are on the opposite side of the Ethernet port. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11ac | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: AC750 | Bands: Dual-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1

Best Splurge

Netgear nighthawk m1.

Great choice for heavy internet users

Supports up to 20 Wi-Fi devices at once

Long battery life

Doubles as a mobile hotspot

Very expensive

Can occasionally overheat

While it's not the most affordable option on our list, it's well worth the splurge if you need to get several devices onto the internet anywhere at blazing-fast speeds.

With support for up to 20 simultaneous devices, Netgear's Nighthawk MR1100 can quickly handle your whole family or project team, and unlike most travel routers on this list, the one works as a 4G LTE mobile hotspot too. This means you'll be able to connect to its Wi-Fi network and get online even when there's no other Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. It's also the first mobile hotspot to support Gigabit LTE , with 4X4 MIMO and four-band Carrier Aggregation. Hence, it can provide internet speeds rivaling your home broadband connection.

It's not just about LTE, though—the MR1100 also works as a traditional portable router. Just plug a standard internet connection into the Ethernet port to share access to your Wi-Fi devices. A large 2.4-inch color LCD screen also ensures that you can keep track of the router's status and how much data you're using. The rechargeable battery can keep you going for up to 24 hours before you need to charge it, and in a pinch, you can also use some of that capacity to charge your smartphone or other mobile devices. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11ac / 4G LTE | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: AC750 | Bands: Dual-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1 

TP-Link TL-WR802N N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router

Fast single-band Wi-Fi performance

No USB port

Not the fastest internet speeds when connected to multiple devices

TP-Link’s TL-WR802N is an older single-band router that offers a surprisingly great range in its small package. While the single-band N300 rating won’t break any speed records, it still provides enough performance for lag-free 4K Netflix streaming and uninterrupted video conferences on Zoom. 

Like most travel routers, the TL-WR802N is designed for use by one or two users when you’re on the go, and the 300Mbps 802.11n speeds will likely be faster than the internet connection at most hotels and conference centers you find yourself in. This little pocket-sized router offers exceptional coverage, so you won’t need to worry about staying connected while roaming the boardroom. 

The N300 draws its power via a micro USB port that can connect directly to a wall charger or laptop, so you won’t have to worry about how to power it. It can also function as a repeater, Wi-Fi client, or extender for a public WISP hotspot. The only downside is that, unlike its dual-band sibling, the TL-WR902AC, it lacks a USB port, so you won’t be able to use it for sharing files. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11n | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: N300 | Bands: Single-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1

Best for Road Warriors

Gl.inet mudi gl-e750.

Works as a 4G LTE mobile hotspot

Open source

Excellent VPN support

No external antenna

The GL.iNet GL-E750 router is an excellent choice for road warriors who must stay connected securely and reliably anywhere they land.

With WireGuard encryption, support for multiple Open Source VPN protocols, and even Tor anonymous network routing, this router ensures that you can always have a secure and private connection to the internet if you're a relatively advanced user. Whether that's over your hotel's shared network or your carrier's LTE network, all your traffic will be encrypted, and you can even have an always-on tunnel back into your home or office network. 

It's not just for mobile LTE access, however; it's also a capable Wi-Fi access point, with dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz support with 733Mbps throughput across both bands, along with a built-in battery that offers up to eight hours of use and a USB port and microSD card slots that can be used for sharing files with your connected devices. Since it's designed to be used from anywhere, it also features a built-in rechargeable battery that promises up to eight hours of use on a single charge. 

Lifewire / Andy Zahn

Most of the routers on the market are big and bulky devices. If you're parking them in a corner at home, this is a manageable problem, but they're not suited for taking the road with you.

This has given rise to a whole new category of travel routers: devices that are specifically designed to be highly portable—often small enough to be carried in a pocket—and run from internal batteries or a simple USB-powered connection that lets you plug them into a laptop or portable battery pack to create your own personal Wi-Fi network. 

Most importantly, since public Wi-Fi hotspots are usually insecure, a good travel router can also offer additional peace of mind by providing a private, encrypted Wi-Fi network for your traffic, securing the connections not only between your devices and the router but also making sure the traffic leaving the router is also encrypted. 

This means that you can take them just about anywhere you happen to land, whether it's between your home and the office, to a coffee shop where you might want to have more secure Wi-Fi, or on the road with you to use in hotels, conference centers, and airport lounges.

Bandwidth and Performance

When shopping for a router for your home, you're looking for enough range to blanket your home with the strong Wi-Fi signal you need to support streaming and gaming from multiple devices. 

Travel routers are different. You may find that even an entry level router—one that offers 802.11n support at 150Mbps speeds—is more than enough.

Wireless Frequencies: Single-Band vs Dual-Band

Like other wireless routers, travel routers come in single or multi-band versions, which refers to their frequencies. A single-band router works only on the 2.4GHz frequency, while a dual-band router offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies on two separate bands. 

Security and Privacy

As a bare minimum, every modern wireless travel router should include support for the Wireless Protected Access 2 (WPA2) encryption standard. This is even more important in a travel router you'll use in more public spaces.

While this probably isn't such a big deal if all you want to do is stream movies from Netflix, if confidentiality is essential, we strongly recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting through a travel router. While you can do this directly from your devices, you'll probably find it even simpler to pick up a travel router with built-in VPN support so that your connection is automatically encrypted as soon as you plug it in.

Connectivity

Almost all travel routers offer the same connectivity as your home router—turning a wired connection into a Wi-Fi network. However, as more hotels offer guest Wi-Fi networks instead of Ethernet jacks, you'll probably find getting a travel router that can also connect to a public Wi-Fi network is more beneficial.

There's also a category of travel routers that can act as mobile hotspots to offer internet access for your mobile devices over an LTE cellular network.

Even though most hotels already offer free Wi-Fi, it’s often struggling under the load of many people using it, so having a travel router can provide better performance, especially if you can plug it into a wired connection in your room. Plus, most public Wi-Fi hotspots are completely insecure, allowing your traffic to be easily intercepted by anybody else on the same Wi-Fi network. Using a router plugged into ethernet will also often save you money as you won't have to pay for the usable 'premium' internet package.

The best travel routers offer industry-standard WPA2 encryption—the same type of security used by your home router—which means that all of your wireless traffic is safe from prying eyes. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are open networks that use no encryption at all but keep in mind that if you’re using a travel router as a wireless extender for a public Wi-Fi hotspot, your traffic will still be unencrypted between your travel router and the hotspot. For the best security, use a wired connection or a VPN wherever possible.

Even if you use your travel router in your hotel room, internet traffic still travels over the hotel’s network. While most sensitive sites and services like email and online banking use SSL encryption, this won’t prevent the hotel or other public hotspot provider from seeing where you’re going; they just won’t be able to know what you’re doing. If you want to ensure your connection is as private and secure as possible, we recommend using a travel router with built-in VPN support.

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Best Mobile Wi-Fi Routers 2023

A Mobile Wi-Fi router, or MiFi for short, is a portable gadget that lets you share an internet connection to other devices from a SIM card with a mobile data plan.

You might wonder why you need one at all when you could use your phone’s portable hotspot (or tethering) feature to create a Wi-Fi network for other devices to connect, but if you’re travelling in another country you might prefer to keep your usual SIM in your phone and pop a local SIM card into a mobile Wi-Fi router to share its data with all your Wi-Fi devices, including a laptop, tablet and even a Fire Stick you might take with you.

If you need a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot regularly, a MiFi router can be the preferred solution because they won’t drain your smartphone’s battery, there’s no fiddling around with swapping SIM cards, and you won’t need to leave your phone with whomever is sharing its internet connection. They can also be used with data-only SIMs (those that do not offer calls and texts), which can make it cheaper to get online. 

And in case you’re wondering, the difference between a mobile Wi-Fi router and a mobile data dongle is that a router does not physically connect to your device, and it can share a mobile data connection with more than one device. You could plug a dongle into your laptop or PC, but the advantage of the MiFi routers below is that they provide an internet connection to multiple devices at the same time.

What is the best mobile hotspot?

1. tp-link m7350 – best overall mobile router.

• SIM-unlocked
• Supports 10 devices
• 10-hour battery
• Cheaper options are available
• May be overkill for some

TP-Link’s M7350 is a solid 4G mobile router that has the big benefit of being network-unlocked. That means although you’ll pay in full upfront, you can choose any data deal from any UK network operator, and you aren’t tied to a contract.

The TP-Link supports all three UK 4G LTE bands, with up to 150Mbps download speeds and 50Mbps uploads. It can create a wireless network for up to 10 devices, and supports a microSD card for shared storage and has an LCD that tells you the signal strength, how many devices are connected, how much data you have used of your total limit, plus the remaining battery capacity.

You can also use the LCD to cycle through a menu that caters to such options as toggling on or off data roaming, switching between 2.4- and 5GHz output, and choosing between 4G, 3G or a mixture of both.

A final option displays a QR code that takes you directly to Google Play or the App Store to download the tpMiFi app, which lets you manage users, alter the range, share files and read text messages. 

The TP-Link’s 2550mAh battery should be good for up to 10 hours of 4G connectivity, but lasts days on standby.

2. Huawei Mobile WiFi 3s (E5576-320) – Best Value Mobile Router

• Supports up to 10 devices
• Nicely designed
• Simple to use
• 6-hour battery life is shorter than some

Available on contract through Three, the Huawei E5576-320 offers such great value that you’d be crazy not to simply buy the network-unlocked version outright.

This is a 4G mobile router that lets you connect up to 10 devices, with its 1500mAh battery offering a standby time of up to 350 hours and working time of up to 6 hours.

It’s small, compact and easily portable – but, more importantly, it’s functional, with up to 150Mbps download speeds and 50Mbps uploads.

There are no fancy extra features, with this affordable mobile router from Huawei instead concentrating on one primary task: getting your mobile devices online wherever you are.

3. TP-Link M7200 – Best No-Frills Mobile Router

• 8-hour battery
• Quick to set up
• Plasticky design
• Difficult to prise off rear panel

TP-Link’s M7220 is a no-frills mobile Wi-Fi router that supports 4G FDD-LTE/TDD-LTE and 3G networks. It’s SIM-unlocked, so you simply unclip the back panel, pop in your SIM, and switch it on. It’s that easy to set up.

The 2,000mAh internal battery can last up to 8 hours in use, but significantly longer on standby, and you can share its 2.4GHz mobile Wi-Fi connection with up to 10 devices.

This is a rather plasticky device, and we were worried about snapping the rear panel when trying to prise it off to insert the SIM, but it’s tougher than it looks. The Wi-Fi network name and password are hidden under this panel, however, so you might prefer to make a note of it than to have to keep pulling on and off the panel every time you want to share the network.

The display doesn’t give you any stats about how much data you’ve used, but three status lights keep things super-simple: you can see how much battery remains, whether you’re connected to the internet and if it is sharing a Wi-Fi network.

Should you want to access more settings you can use the free mobile app or connect to the router via its login page on a browser, but otherwise the TP-Link keeps things simple for those who just want to turn it on and get online.

4. TP-Link M7450 – Best 4G Mobile Router

• Supports 32 devices
• 15-hour battery life
• Might be overkill for some

The TP-Link M7450 is a newer, more advanced version of the M7350, but it’s also more expensive and we think the older model currently offers better value.

Like the M7350, it’s sold unlocked and should work with any major network, either in the UK or abroad. It supports Cat6 LTE, with 300Mbps downloads (double the M7350) and 50Mbps downloads; you can pick between either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi bands; and you can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously – way, way more than most people will ever need.

Menu navigation is simple, and the clean UI makes the most of the two buttons and small screen to give you the info you need. For more complex setup – including USSD support, useful for connecting to many foreign networks – you can use either the web portal or free smartphone app.

The 3000mAh battery should give you an impressive 15 hours of working battery time. You even get a microSD slot, which supports cards up to 32GB and can be used as a quick way to share files between devices.

5. MyWebspot – Best Rental Mobile Router

• Great for one-off use
• Ready to go out of box
• Local charger supplied
• Rental prices will stack up
• Fair usage policy
• No LCD or app

Many of the options in this chart are suitable for those who will regularly need the use of a mobile Wi-Fi router, but MyWebspot is more appropriate for those who have a one-off requirement.

If you’re going on holiday abroad (potentially outside the realms of free roaming in Europe) and have several devices to get online, the service allows you to hire a hotspot for use by up to five devices in more than 100 countries.

Daily charges are calculated based on where you are going and for how long. At first glance they might seem steep, but they are nothing compared to what your mobile operator will charge you once you overstep your data allowance. It can also be very expensive to connect to Wi-Fi provided by some holiday resorts, which is often slow and time-limited.

The data is technically unlimited, but once you exceed the fair usage (1GB/day in Europe, US and Canada; 2GB in Mexico; fully unlimited in South East Asia; and 512MB everywhere else) the speed drops to an almost unusable 256kbps.

Setup couldn’t be simpler. The device can be delivered directly to your resort (or home if you prefer), then you turn it on, wait a moment for it to connect to a local 4G LTE network, and pick it up on your mobile device as you would any other Wi-Fi network using the SSID and password printed on the label on the back. On your way home you pop it in the post box using the prepaid envelope.

MyWebspot claims download speeds up to 100Mbps, and uploads of up to 40Mbps. In our testing in Lake Garda, Italy, we recorded  an average download speed of 33.5Mbps, and upload speed of 26.8Mbps. Naturally these speeds will decrease as you add multiple devices.

You’ll get about eight hours battery life from the Mi-Fi router, which is supplied with the appropriate local charger for your holiday destination.

There’s no companion app, which means even technophobes will get along with MyWebspot, though it would be handy to have some way of monitoring usage across multiple devices given that there’s no LCD screen.

6. Three Huawei 4G Plus MiFi – Best Value Contract Mobile Router

• Unlimited data
• Shorter contract options

If you’d rather buy a mobile Wi-Fi router on a contract, Three has some of the best deals right now. It uses the Huawei E5783B-320, and pairs it with some great data bundles.

We like the fact you can subscribe to a one-month rolling contract, because the way the world is right now no-one really knows how much they’ll be traveling over the next couple of years!

Three offers great value on unlimited data, with the one-month plan costing £27 per month (plus £39 upfront), the 12-month plan costing £26 per month (no upfront cost), and the 24-month plan costing £22 per month (again, no upfront cost). Purchase either the 12- or 24-month option and right now you get the first six months half-price.

If you don’t need this much data, 10GB and 40GB plans are also available, with the 10GB 24-month plan starting from £12 per month.

What are the advantages of buying a mobile Wi-Fi router?

You can connect multiple devices: Some MiFi devices let you connect 10 or more devices to a single hotspot, which will work out a lot cheaper than paying for a mobile data plan for each of those devices – but you’ll want a generous data allowance.

You can connect Wi-Fi-only devices to a mobile data connection:  Tablets are great to use at home, but what about on the train, on the beach or by the pool? Wherever you can get a phone signal, you can use MiFi to create a wireless network and get online from any Wi-Fi device.

You can save money on your next tablet: Buying a tablet with a 4G or 5G data connection adds around £100 to the price, and that’s before you consider the monthly fee for your data. Use some of that money to buy a MiFi router instead and you’ll never need to buy a cellular tablet again.

You can reduce roaming charges: Most mobile operators offer free roaming in the EU (for now, anyway!), but fixed-fee roaming elsewhere, allowing you to take your home tariff with you for a set cost. Rather than paying this extra charge on all your devices, turn off data roaming on them and connect them all to a mobile hotspot. You’ll pay this charge only once, but get all your devices online. Note that 5G roaming is not widespread, but it is currently offered by Vodafone and VOXI.

You can avoid using slow hotel Wi-Fi: When visiting hotels that still charge for Wi-Fi, you can get the kids online all day and at a lower cost than what the hotel would charge. Better still, you can avoid using the same network as all the other guests, which is usually slow and often has poor signal in your hotel room. Sometimes these networks can also be unsecured, so using MiFi will be preferable.

You can add 5G connectivity to a 4G device: Many of us have yet to jump on the 5G bandwagon, but where available it is seriously fast. Although your phone may be limited to 4G, your data plan almost certainly includes 5G. A 5G mobile router will allow you to connect your 4G phone to the internet at 5G speeds.

You can get faster download speeds: Even if your device already supports 5G, you could potentially get faster download and upload speeds by switching to a MiFi that supports a faster connection. Just remember that 5G is not yet available everywhere, and purchasing a 5G hotspot will push up the price.

You can share storage across your own mobile network: If your MiFi supports a microSD card, you can share that storage across all your devices, which is especially handy if they don’t support expandable storage themselves.

How do I choose a mobile router?

There are three options when purchasing a mobile Wi-Fi router:

• Buy a device and data SIM bundle direct from a mobile operator in return for a fixed monthly subscription
• Buy a network-unlocked MiFi router and add your own data SIM
• Hire a mobile router to cover only the period you need (see MyWebspot , reviewed above)

Many people will automatically go to their mobile operator for a MiFi device, since it’s an easy solution and you don’t need to pay anything up front. But this isn’t always the best idea.

If you buy a MiFi router from a mobile operator it will probably be locked to that network, preventing you from shopping around for the best data deal. You will also most likely pay over the odds if you choose to pay nothing up front but tie yourself into a two-year contract.

However, buy a network-unlocked router and shop around for a great-value data SIM plan and you will save money in the long run.

Note that the mobile hotspots offered by UK mobile operators are typically made by Huawei, but also Netgear, HTC and TP-Link. If you know the model you can usually find these devices available network-unlocked through retailers such as Amazon.

Can I use any SIM in a mobile hotspot?

Technically, yes. If you have a significant or unlimited data allowance with your mobile tariff you could simply take the SIM out your smartphone and insert it into a mobile router. 

However, not all mobile operators support unlimited tethering (check your contract), various phone functions are not going to be available on your smartphone while it’s missing its SIM, and you might regret the decision if you are overly generous with that shared mobile Wi-Fi connection and run out of data some time before the allowance renews.

You can now purchase data SIMs or SIM-only plans with big data allowances on PAYG or contract from all the UK’s major mobile operators. Which option you choose is largely going to be based on how much data you need to use, and how frequently you need to use it.

If you want something only for when you go on holiday, choose a PAYG plan and pay for data only when you need it. If you want something to get around a flaky home broadband connection or for use on your daily commute, choose either a rolling one-month contract option or save a bit of money with a 12- or 24-month plan.

What are the best data SIM deals?

We’d advise looking for a deal from a well-known mobile operator that has reliable coverage in your area (or your holiday destination), with a big data allowance, no restrictions on tethering, free or cheap roaming, and a low monthly or PAYG cost.

You can check network coverage in your area for 2G, 3G, 4G and 5G on the mobile operator’s website. Use the following links to jump straight to the major UK mobile operators’ coverage checker: Vodafone , EE , O2 , Three , GiffGaff , Smarty , VOXI , iD Mobile , Virgin Mobile , TalkMobile . 

There are many more companies offering data SIMs than we have listed here, but all are what are known as MVNOs, or mobile virtual network operators. This means they piggyback on another mobile network (Vodafone, EE, O2 or Three) for connectivity. As long as you have coverage with the big four, all the MVNOs should be covered in your area.

The best data SIM deals are always changing. We’ve collated more in-depth advice in our frequently updated guide to the best SIM-only deals , but our preference currently falls to Three . All its SIMs support 5G.

Smarty, which also runs on Three’s network, currently has a great deal on 40GB of data for £10 on a12-month plan. Tethering is unlimited in the UK.

Author: Marie Black , Editorial Director

Marie is Editorial Director at Foundry. A Journalism graduate from the London College of Printing, she's worked in tech media for more than 17 years, managing our EMEA and LatAm editorial teams and leading on content strategy through Foundry's transition from print, to digital, to online - and beyond.

Recent stories by Marie Black:

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The 6 Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots of 2024

These handy devices keep you connected with ease.

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Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

We're fortunate to live in an era where cell coverage reaches 95 percent of the population, according to the International Telecommunications Union. And that makes staying connected while traveling to most on-the-grid destinations a breeze. Many cell phone carriers offer some level of international data plans, which allows you to use your devices abroad — for a fee, of course.

But if you're working on the go, traveling in a group, or attempting to preserve your phone's battery, you might want to look into getting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, which often provides more data to more devices. "Portable hotspots will use data just like cell phones do, and coverage will really depend on the carrier and the coverage they offer in the area," Best Buy mobile supervisor Thomas Walker told Travel + Leisure. "Since hotspots require data, they also require a plan, something to remember as you consider buying a portable hotspot."

Best Overall

Skyroam solis lite.

The device comes with a free lifetime global data plan.

1GB of monthly data will go by very quickly; you'll have to pay up for more.

There are many things the Simo Solis Lite does well, but the real showstopper here is the company's lifetime global data plan that gives you 1GB of data each month for as long as your device functions. And this plan truly is global, as the device works in 135+ different countries . That said, 1GB isn't much data at all. Depending on your usage, you might need to upgrade to a more robust data package, which typically costs anywhere from $6 to $109, or potentially more, per month. On the plus side, you don't need to change SIM cards in this hotspot — you can add those plans via an app.

As for the other stats with this device, the 16-hour battery life is well above average. We love that you can charge other devices with this hotspot — although that will reduce its battery life, of course. Up to 10 devices can be connected to the Solis Lite, which is likely suitable for most users, but it's an unremarkable number compared to other products on the market. Similarly, 4G connectivity is serviceable but doesn't earn any special accolades. If you're traveling with a large group of people, you may want to consider other options depending on how connected you need to be.

One other standout feature of this Wi-Fi hotspot is true 24/7 customer support — this is especially valuable for travelers who need internet access at all hours across various time zones. 

The Details: 16-hour battery life | 10 devices | 4G connectivity | 5.98 x 4.69 x 1.73 inches | 10.2 ounces

Best for SIM Cards

Netgear nighthawk m6 pro.

It has Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.

13 hours of battery life is good, but not great.

If you need a fast and reliable internet connection just about anywhere, Netgear's Nighthawk M6 Pro might be the solution. It's compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the U.S., and it works in more than 125 countries when swapping in a new SIM card, supporting both 5G and Wi-Fi 6E. You can connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, allowing an entire team of remote workers to stay connected. And if you're on the move, you'll enjoy a more secure connection with the Nighthawk than public Wi-Fi. 

Beyond its uses for remote work around the world, the Nighthawk M6 Pro could even replace a standard internet connection at your home or office. Because it can function with both a wired and wireless connection, you won't lose connectivity due to internet or electricity outages. And with 13 hours of battery life, you'll have time to wait for the outage to end. That said, increased battery life would be ideal, especially for remote workers and travelers. But whether you're in a home office or off the grid, it's hard to beat this product's speed.

The Details: 13-hour battery life | 32 devices | Wi-Fi 6E connectivity | 4.1 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches | 0.56 pounds

Most Versatile

Glocalme numen air 5g.

There's no SIM card required.

The battery life and number of devices could be better, but are likely fine for most users.

The GlocalMe Numer Air 5G works in more than 140 countries on more than 100 operator networks — that means you'll be covered just about anywhere. It doesn't need a SIM card to work, thanks to its CloudSIM technology. Upon purchase, you'll automatically receive 1GB of global data for a 90-day period, and additional data can be added easily via the mobile app. There are thousands of flexible data plans from which to choose, including pay-as-you-go options with no contract. In other words, this is a convenient mobile hotspot to take with you while you travel, since it's designed to be useful in a wide variety of cellular settings and situations.  

Stat-wise, we consider the 12-hour battery life to be good, but not especially impressive. That said, it may be plenty of time depending on how you intend to use the device. You can connect up to 16 devices, which is probably plenty for most users but may not be ideal for an office setup. 

The Details: 12-hour battery life | 16 devices | 5G connectivity | 6.1 x 2.8 x 0.6 inches | 6.8 ounces

RoamWiFi Portable WiFi Device

It's not just the device that's a good value — some data plans are fairly low-price.

Only five devices can connect to the hotspot at a time.

This 4G LTE mobile hotspot router delivers a surprising amount of power and flexibility inside an affordable package. The device itself is priced under $200, and a variety of data plans are available at all price points, ranging from a $3 day pass to a $299 90-day pass. No SIM card is needed, and the device works in more than 160 countries (there's a complete list about halfway down the Amazon product page). The whopping 18 hours of battery life outperforms every other battery-powered hotspot on our list. 

That said, there are some limitations that come with the lower cost. The device does not connect to 5G networks, so internet speeds won't necessarily be the fastest. Also, you can only connect five devices to this hotspot which is plenty for the average solo user, but may not be suitable for groups or families. 

The Details: 18-hour battery life | 5 devices | 4G connectivity | ‎4.96 x 2.68 x 0.57 inches | 6.3 ounces

Best Unlocked

Netgear nighthawk m1.

It works on all major domestic carriers, including GoogleFi.

Netgear doesn't publish battery life.

Able to connect and share data with 20 devices at once, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 Mobile Hotspot can handle multiple tasks at once without sacrificing power or speed. It's an unlocked device that uses GSM SIM cards, compatible with AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and GoogleFi in the United States, and can serve as a backup internet connection while not traveling. It's equipped with fast 4G LTE broadband and offers up to one gigabit per second (Gbps) of download speed. Worried about how much data you've used? Its LCD screen clearly displays how much data is remaining, calculates when it will run out, and keeps count of the devices connected.

While Netgear doesn't publish the battery life of the Nighthawk M1, it claims it can last "all day" — and you can even buy a battery booster pack for more juice. There is an upgraded version of this hotspot that is 5G-compatible, but it's nearly double the price. 5G connectivity may not be necessary for most travelers.

The Details: "All day" battery life | 20 devices | 4G connectivity | 4.15 x 4.15 x 0.8 inches | 8.5 ounces

Best Router

Gl.inet gl-mt3000 wireless travel router.

It creates a more secure internet connection for your devices.

Routers like this one are not capable of providing internet on their own.

Technically, a Wi-Fi router is not a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. But what it does do is allow you to take one internet connection with a tricky login situation — say, hotel Wi-Fi that asks you to input your room number every time you connect — and streamlines the process for connecting additional devices. In a nutshell, you connect to Wi-Fi via the router, which then creates a more secure network for you to connect to from other devices. This router can also boost Wi-Fi signals throughout a space, so if you're in a vacation rental where the Wi-Fi is strong in one room but not another, a router can help.

This portable router is compatible with more than 30 VPN service providers and can accommodate up to 70 different devices, making it one of the best devices for securely accessing high-speed internet while traveling or on the move. The AdGuard feature helps to protect your devices from malware, phishing, ads, and online trackers. This is an especially important safety feature for using unfamiliar WiFi connections.

The Details: 70 devices | Wi-Fi 6 connectivity | 4.53 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches | 6.9 ounces

Tips for Buying a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

Consider where and when you'll use it.

Not all portable Wi-Fi hotspots can be used everywhere. If yours is tied to a U.S.–based carrier (like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon), and you're planning on going abroad, you need to make sure you've paid for a data plan that includes international use. If you're only traveling for a short period of time, this might be the most convenient option. 

But if you're planning on traveling internationally for an extended period of time, you might want to opt for an unlocked portable Wi-Fi hotspot — that is, one that isn't tied to a specific carrier. You can then buy a data plan from a company based in your destination, which usually is a more economical decision. "SIM cards are cheap and easy to get in lots of countries worldwide, and going this route ensures you get the strongest signal possible for the lowest price," Peter Holslin, senior staff writer at internet comparison site HighSpeedInternet.com, told T+L.

The duration of your trip should also inform whether you want to purchase an as-you-go data plan (better for shorter tips) or a monthly one (better for longer trips).

Check with your phone carrier

"When you use a portable hotspot, you can choose the carrier it's connected to. So if you want to maximize your coverage, you can use one carrier for your phone and a different carrier for the hotspot," Walker said. It's often cheaper to buy a Wi-Fi hotspot to hook up to a local network while traveling versus paying for an international phone plan with your current carrier as well.

Think about voltage and battery life

For the most part, portable Wi-Fi hotspots use a relatively low amounts of power (about five to seven volts, depending on the size and strength of the device). However, you should still utilize a power converter when plugging your hotspot in during international travels. Not all outlets around the world support the same power output, so using an adapter can prevent blowing a fuse or sparking your devices. If you want a more portable Wi-Fi hotspot that doesn't need to be plugged in, be sure to check its expected battery life to know exactly how long you can use it on the go.

"Wi-Fi hotspots work similar to phones, tapping into your cellular network to provide high-speed data for use with laptops, tablets, gaming systems, etc.," Verizon spokesperson George Koroneos told T+L. "What's more? You can give access to your travel companions, so they can use your dedicated hotspot, similar to a Wi-Fi network."

Yes, it does. "Mobile hotspots connect to cellular networks to provide internet connection allowing customers to connect anywhere," Jeff Howard, AT&T's vice president of hardware and partner solutions, told T+L.

It depends on what type of portable hotspot you have and what type of plan you have. If your hotspot plan is locked to a specific carrier, you'll need to make sure your carrier has an international plan. (Spoiler alert: most do.) It might be as simple as turning your device on and letting it automatically connect to a local cell network. But if your portable hotspot requires a local SIM card to work, you'll have to pick one up at the airport or at a store and insert it into your hotspot to connect to a local cell network.

Many cell phone providers have international plan options for travelers, and you can turn most smartphones into a mobile hotspot under that plan. Then you can connect devices to your cell phone for internet services. But that's not always the best solution. "One thing to consider is carriers may limit the hotspot data amount on your phone, so you may see slower speeds at a certain point," Walker said. "You also don't have to run your cell phone battery when you use a standalone hotspot." On the other hand, portable Wi-Fi hotspots require their own data plans, which costs additional money.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer who has tested cell coverage on all seven continents. (Antarctica is by far the worst.) For this article, she poured over cell service coverage maps and read dozens of customer reviews.

In compiling this list, she also interviewed telecommunications experts to discuss what to look for in a mobile hotspot. Experts she spoke to included:

• Thomas Walker , Best Buy mobile supervisor
• Peter Holslin , senior staff writer at internet comparison site HighSpeedInternet.com
• George Koroneos , Verizon spokesperson
• Jeff Howard , AT&T's vice president of hardware and partner solutions

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Best Travel Router in 2023 (Portable WiFi On The Go)

Travel routers are designed to be light and portable and convert a Wifi or ethernet connection into your own Wifi. You’ll be able to connect all your devices and your friends and families too, to a private and secure connection no matter what is available in the airport or hotel.

In this review, we have chosen some of the best travel routers around, and there are a lot to choose from. We compared these portable wifi routers against each other and have highlighted their features, pros, and cons so you can make an informed decision and find the best travel router for you.

At A Glance: Our Top Travel Routers

• The Best Overall NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 Jump To Review
• Lightest GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) Portable Travel Router Jump To Review
• Best Travel Router for Hotels TP Link AC750 Travel Wifi Router Jump To Review
• Best On A Budget GL.iNET GL-AR150 Mini Travel Wireless Router Jump To Review

Top Product Overview

Best travel router, netgear nighthawk m1.

If you’re into Wifi then you’ll have heard of Netgear. They make some of the best wireless travel routers on the market and have added a load of features to the NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 travel router. It is the largest and most expensive router in the review but it does do everything.

The M1 will turn an ethernet connection, modem, wireless network, and your SIM card into a super-fast personal Wifi network anywhere in the world. This is the first router in the review that can create a Wifi internet connection from a 3G or 4G SIM Card.

This means that no matter where in the world you are, you can slot in a local SIM card have Wifi where ever you are. From the beach to the jungle, if there is a 3/4G network available, you’ll be online.

The speed this travel router can deliver is also impressive and it will compete with your home broadband. They have put a four-band Carrier Aggregation and LTE in this router which is what helps it get speeds of up to 1Gbps.

Built into this travel router is a battery that holds up to 20 devices for 24 hours before you need to charge it.

That’s some incredible battery life and it does make the M1 very portable. There is a handy LCD display that shows you the number of devices connected, and internet connection strength, and keeps you up to date with how much data you’re using.

It’s not just a router, however, and it shouldn’t be at $690. It’s also a power bank, provides data sharing and media streaming. It’s also highly configurable to give you exactly the Wifi set up you want where ever you are in the world.

Overall it’s an amazing portable router, it just very expensive and a little bigger than most, but well worth it if it’s in your budget.

• Provides power
• Fast connection
• Data sharing
• Media streaming
• Dual-Band Wi-Fi
• Highly configurable
• Color display
• Long battery life
• Connect through a SIM card
• Very expensive

Product Information

• Size: 4.15 x 4.15 x 0.8"
• Weight: 8.5 oz
• Devices: Up to 20

GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Travel Router

The GlocalMe G4 is a different type of travel router. It’s an international 4G LTE mobile hotspot that works in 144 countries . You don’t even need a SIM card for this travel router. It does support SIM cards and you can insert one if you want, but the device doesn’t need one to work.

The best thing about this travel router is that the WiFi plans are flexible . You can choose from different international and local data plans, and pay as you go. Also, when you first start using the GlocalMe G4 mobile hotspot, you get 1GB of global data and 8GB of US data for free.

This travel router lets you share your wireless connection with up to 10 devices, so not only can you connect all your devices to the Internet, but you can also share it with your friends and family without needing to disconnect anything.

This mobile hotspot boasts a touchscreen that’s easy to use, as well as an intuitive user interface. It also doubles as a power bank (3,900 mAh), so you can use it to power other devices. The battery has enough power for some 12 hours of continuous use, but it won’t do much to charge your smartphone.

• SIM card supported but not required
• Works in 140+ countries
• Free global and US data included
• Touchscreen interface
• Battery capacity is quite small
• Customer support is not very helpful
• Big and heavy
• Size: 6.69“ x 4.37“ x 1.73“
• Weight: 13.7 ounces
• Devices: Up to 10

GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) Portable Travel Router

The GL.iNet GL-MT300N is one of the lightest devices you can get your hands on. At 1.41 ounces, this is the lightest travel router available at the moment, so it’s certainly the best option if you need something ultra-portable. Also, it’s so small that you can easily carry it in your pocket.

The Mango router supports both WiFi and Ethernet, with two dedicated ethernet ports. It also has a USB 2.0 port for tethering and compatible 3G and 4G modems, as well as a micro USB port for charging. You can use any adapter to charge the Mango, and you can charge it with your laptop for ultimate convenience.

Additionally, this travel router boasts download speeds of up to 300 Mbp s! It also allows for advanced security encryption, and it comes with a pre-installed OpenVPN client. Don’t worry if that’s not your preferred virtual private network service because this little router is compatible with 30+ other VPN services.

Finally, you can use this portable router in four different ways. It can work as a standard network router if you plug it into an existing Ethernet network, and it also functions as a WiFi repeater when you connect it to an existing WiFi network.

The other two modes are hotspot and AP – the former requires you to connect the Mango to an existing access point in order to create a private hotspot, and the AP mode transforms a wired into a wireless signal, which is perfect for devices that only support wireless connections.

• Most compact device
• Extremely affordable
• Supports download speeds up to 300Mbps
• Works as a WiFi repeater, router, and hotspot
• Can transform the wired signal into a wireless one
• Two Ethernet ports (WAN and LAN)
• It does not detect 5Ghz networks
• No internal battery
• Size: 2.28” x 2.28” x 0.98”
• Weight: 1.41 ounces
• Devices: Not specified

TP Link AC750 Travel Wifi Router

The TP Link AC750 Wireless Travel Router gives you the highest speed for your money out of any of the travel routers in the review. It can give up to 733Mbps depending on the wired network and it does it for $40.

This TP-Link wireless router is not only fast but it’s also very versatile in terms of Wifi connectivity. It does everything you’d expect like creating a secure Wifi network from a direct ethernet connection, Wifi connection, modem connection, and a WISP hotspot.

The special bit is that it also works as a range extender and you can connect a device to the router using a wired connection. So if your TV, for example, needs a hardline ethernet cable to connect to the internet, you can run one from the Ac750 directly to it.

As well as being great at Wifi, you can also use it as a power bank and for file sharing. It’s pretty light and compact too making it a great all-rounder. The only downside is that the port layouts are quite annoying and the instructions aren’t clear and could get frustrating.

Overall, this is a fast, versatile travel router from TP Link that’s not going to break the bank. Plus it comes with a 2-year warranty. And given its versatility, it would make the perfect wifi travel router for hotels or cruiseships.

• Fast, light & compact
• File sharing
• 2-year warranty
• Bad instructions
• Annoying port layout
• Size: 2.64 x 2.91 x 0.87"
• Weight: 8 oz
• Devices: Quite a few (number not specified)

TP-Link N300 Wireless Travel Router

The TP-Link N300 Wireless Travel Router is the simplest travel router in the review. Simply put, it is just a travel router and doesn’t have any extra’s like file-sharing or being able to be used as a power bank.

Removing the extras makes it light, portable, and capable of getting a speed of up to 300Mbps .

The band connection also provides lag-free streaming. The travel router can be connected to a cable to create a wireless network, to a modem as an AP, used as a repeater, a booster, and as a hotspot.

It’s also compatible with Chromecast or Amazon FireStick so you can watch all your favorite movies on the go too. Being so light, it doesn’t have an inbuilt battery and you’ll need to connect it to a power source through the micro USB port.

This means you can charge it from the wall, your lightweight laptop , or a power bank, giving you Wifi internet connection where ever you are.

The setup for this travel router is incredibly easy and takes under a minute. Once set up it can be connected to by as many devices as you like but its performance does decrease noticeably with multiple devices.

Overall a simple, fast, portable, and easy-to-use router that also comes with 24/7 support and a 2-year warranty.

• A few wireless modes
• Simple to use
• No USB ports
• Struggles with multiple devices
• Size: 2.2 x 2.2 x 0.7"
• Weight: 7.2oz
• Devices: As many as you like

GL.iNET GL-AR150 Mini Travel Wireless Router

The GL.iNET GL-AR150 Travel Router is a great choice for anyone who wants a router that’s super-portable, simple, and just a router.

This little guy weighs just over 1 oz and is compact enough to slip into your pocket or purse with ease. It can create a Wifi network from just about anything except a SIM card. You can connect it to a modem, ethernet cable, or existing Wifi internet connection, or tether it to your phone or dongle via USB.

One of the best features of this travel router is its security. Traveling around the world means unsecured networks, but once you plug this baby in, you’re getting a Wifi network with a firewall, instantly.

It comes with Open VPN pre-installed and is compatible with over 20 providers, so where ever you connect, you’ll know you’re secure.

It comes without an internal battery but you can charge it from your laptop’s USB or from a wall socket. It comes with 2 ethernet ports, 64MB of RAM, and 16MB of flash. You can also increase this via USB. It’s also Open Source and programmable so you can have full control over everything.

This is an awesome travel router and for just $27, you can’t go wrong.

• 2x Ethernet port
• Tethers to your mobile phone
• Programmable
• Light & compact
• Tricky to set up
• Only supports 2.4GHz
• Size: 2.28 x 2.28 x 0.98"
• Weight: 1.59 oz

Huawei E5576-320 4G LTE Travel Router

The Huawei E5576-320 Travel Router is a good option if you need a compact but reliable device. It needs a SIM card to work, and then it turns into a mobile hotspot that can be used by up to 16 devices at the same time. With a battery of 1500 mAh, you can use this device for up to six hours at a time, before it needs to be recharged.

The battery life could certainly be improved, but at least you can use this device while it’s charging, so you can just keep it plugged into a power bank. Also, the Huawei router boasts a removable battery. Carrying an additional battery is always an option since it means you can just replace the original one when it runs out of juice, without needing to disconnect from the WiFi.

This travel router supports 3G and 4G mobile bands – it’s compatible with 4G LTE in Europe, Asia, and Africa, but only the 3G will work in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. You get download speeds up to 150Mbps on 4G, and up to 43.2Mbps on the 3G networks. Upload speeds are not that bad either – it’s up to 40Mbps on the 4G network, and up to 5.76Mbps on 3G.

In case you need something for travel in North and South America, you should check out Huawei E5576-508 mobile hotspot, which was made specifically for that market and has better compatibility with mobile phone carriers in the Americas.

• Compact and lightweight
• Great upload and download speeds on 4G LTE
• Not expensive
• Works while charging
• Supports connections to up to 16 devices simultaneously
• Small battery capacity
• Only 3G LTE works in the USA, Mexico, and Canada
• Does not double as a power bank
• Size: 3.94“ x 0.28“ x 2.28“
• Weight: 3.53 ounces
• Devices: Up to 16

GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel AC Router

If you’re a technical wiz and looking for a travel router that’s versatile and offers you a lot of programmabilities, then the GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel AC Router is a great choice.

This wireless router will create a highly secure Wifi network from a modem, ethernet connection, wifi connection, dongle, and from your phone. It works over a dual-band and it’s pretty fast offering speeds up to 733Mbps.

It comes with 3 ethernet ports to give wired devices internet access. It has a USB port to open up local fire sharing. There is also an SD card slot to provide you with built-in storage space.

It’s programmable and comes pre-installed with OpenVPN and WireGuard to act as a VPN client and server out of the box.

This means your connection will be very secure no matter where you are. It also arrives configured to use Cloudflare’s encrypted DNS servers for additional security. You will have to update it to the latest firmware when you get it though.

Overall a fast, secure, and technical, wireless travel router that’s got a lot of bang for its buck.

• 3 Gigabit Ethernet Ports
• Great VPN support
• Awesome security
• Programable
• SD card slot
• Can be tricky to set up
• Size: 3.90 x 2.70 x 0.90"
• Weight: 3.03 oz

What To Look For In A Travel Router

Here are some key factors to consider when buying a great travel router.

Size & Weight

When it comes to portability both the size and weight of a router are important considerations. You’ll want it to slip easily into your carry-on luggage and not take any valuable weight or space. All the travel routers in this review are light and portable but some are much lighter and compact than others.

Another thing to consider is your travel router power source. Some travel routers come without an inbuilt battery making them very light but they will need to be plugged in to use them.

This means having a power bank ready or plugging them into your laptop’s USB port. Wifi travel routers with an inbuilt battery will be easy to carry around but you’ll need to make sure to pack the right charging cables and plug for your trip.

Travel Router Connection Options

Every router in the review will turn an ethernet, modem, or Wifi connection into your own Wifi connection but not all of them connect to a dongle, phone, or SIM card. There are a few in the review that do connect to all of these, like the ETGEAR Nighthawk M1 or the GL.iNET GL-AR150 Mini Travel Router , so if you’re wanting to use your phone or a Sim card to give you Wifi anywhere, be sure to pick s router that can do it.

Security and Encryption

In order to keep your connection secure, you want a wireless router that offers WPA2 encryption or has a built-in VPN. All the portable routers in the review provide some security but if you want the maximum, go for one of the ones with a built-in VPN.

Overall Speed & Range

Faster portable routers usually mean spending a little more. Think about the speed and the range you’re likely to need on your travels. If you’re going to need to stream HD across 5 devices or have multiple conference calls across multiple devices, you’ll need a wireless router with some solid bandwidth.

If it’s just for you to do some work on, watch a movie, and call home, then you’ll be fine with a lower speed.

Consider Extra’s

Some of the routers in the review are plain routers while others are more multi-tools. Some can also be used as a power source, for file sharing, can have in-built storage, and connect to media streaming. If you want these added benefits, be sure to choose one with them.

Our Favourite Wifi Travel Routers

Here are our top choices from the review.

The lightest travel router of them all is the GL.iNet Mango at just 1.4 ounces. It’s so small and compact that you can carry it in your pocket, but it still does everything a good router should. With download speeds of up to 300Mbps and a price of just some $30, it’s hard to find flaws in this travel router!

• 【WIRELESS MOBILE MINI TRAVEL ROUTER】 Convert a public network (wired or wireless) to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. Tethering. Powered by any laptop USB, power banks or 5V/2A DC adapters (sold separately). 39g (1.41 Oz) only, portable and pocket friendly. 2.4GHz ONLY
• 【OPEN SOURCE & PROGRAMMABLE】 OpenWrt pre-installed, USB disk extendable.

The best travel router is the NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 . This is one of the fastest and best multi-use travel routers on the market. It can turn anything into a fast, secure network, even a SIM card. It’s also a power bank, data sharer, and media streamer. You can have up to 20 devices all working from the same router, sharing data, anywhere, even at the beach.

• Share WiFi internet access with up to 20 devices
• Connect to your existing home router using the Gigabit Ethernet port for fast, reliable primary or backup Internet connection. Ideal for homes with poor internet service or coverage

The best travel router on a budget is the GL.iNET GL-AR150 Travel Router . This router is tiny, light, compact, and very secure. It can turn anything into a secured VPN, even your phone’s 4G signal and it’s just $27.

• 【WIRELESS MOBILE MINI TRAVEL ROUTER】 Convert a public network(wired/wireless) to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. Create a secure Wi-Fi hotspot quickly. Tethering, 3G/4G USB Modem Compatible. Powered by any laptop USB, power banks or 5V DC adapters (sold separately). 39g (1.41 Oz) only, portable and pocket friendly.
• 【OPEN SOURCE & PROGRAMMABLE】 OpenWrt/LEDE pre-installed, backed by software repository. DDWrt supported. USB disk extendable.
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12 Best Portable Wi-Fi Routers for Traveling in 2022

Keep you connected no matter where you are

It’s almost time to begin the holiday travels to visit family and friends, near and far. Even though internet service is more available than ever, some spots are still almost off the grid. You need a portable Wi-Fi router for your travels.

We present the best portable Wi-Fi routers for traveling to keep you connected through the holidays and 2022.

Why Would I Want a Portable Wi-Fi Router ?

There are many reasons you’d want to set up a mobile hotspot with your own portable Wi-Fi router.

• Security : Sometimes connecting to public Wi-Fi access points feels a little sketchy. Having your own mobile hotspot puts you on your Wi-Fi network, which will always be more secure. Several travel Wi-Fi routers also come with built-in VPN and firewall support.
• Savings : If you’ve got a Wi-Fi router capable of using cellular data, all the devices you have only need to have Wi-Fi capability to connect to that mobile hotspot. You don’t need to buy tablets with SIM cards and put them on any data plan. You could also give older smartphones to the kids to use in the car instead of buying them cellular plans. Plus, if the kids have older devices and something happens to them, it’s not as big a blow to the wallet.
• Speed : Ever been in a hotel, connected to their Wi-Fi network, and wondered if you just connected to 1990’s dial-up internet? That’s not a problem with your own portable Wi-Fi router. Also, if your portable Wi-Fi router is 5G compatible, you can connect your 4G LTE or older device and take advantage of 5G speeds.

1. Best High End Mobile Wi-Fi Router – Netgear Nighthawk M5

Price : $699

Cell Network : 5G

Wi-Fi : Wi-Fi Version 6

At around $700, the Netgear Nighthawk M5 mobile Wi-Fi unit should be able to do almost everything. And it does. If you’re a heavy traveler or use this as your primary Internet connection at home, it may be worth it. Note that it works best on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks in the US. The battery is easily removed, so consider getting a spare to keep charged for quick swaps. If you don’t have 5G cell service in your area, consider the Netgear M1 for 4G service.

• VPN , DMZ, and password support
• Connect up to 32 devices
• Up to 13-hour battery life
• Ethernet and USB C connectors
• Onboard touch-screen controls also tracks data usage
• 2 x TS-9 external antenna connectors to extend the range
• 1 Gbps Ethernet port
• Web and app-based management
• SMS Messaging capable

2. Runner Up High End Mobile Wi-Fi Router – NetGear Nighthawk M1  

Price : $400

Cell Network : 4G

Wi-Fi : 802.11 a/b/g/n Dual Band 2.4GHz and 5GHz

Yes, another NetGear Nighthawk. You’ve probably guessed that this is the NetGear Wi-Fi router that came before the M5. Yet, it’s still sought after. It’s also the ideal mobile Wi-Fi router if you only have access to 4G cell service. 

• Connect up to 20 devices
• Up to 11-hour battery life
• Offload to regular Wi-Fi or Ethernet if available to reduce cellular data consumption
• Share data from an external hard drive
• JumpBoost to charge phones

3. Best Affordable Wi-Fi Mobile Hotspot – NetGear 4G AC797

Price : $219

Wi-Fi : 802.11 a/c Dual Band 2.4GHz and 5GHz

NetGear is popular for a reason. If the higher priced NetGear devices are just out of reach, this is the mobile Wi-Fi hotspot for you. With many of the features available on the Nighthawks, you’ll get your money’s worth. Although its peak download speed is 400 Mbs, it’s enough for most people. 

• Guest Wi-Fi sign in with timer
• Max speed 400 Mbps
• Color display shows network and battery info, plus more
• Manage with the NetGear mobile app

4. Runner Up Affordable Wi-Fi Mobile Hotspot – GlocalMe U3 Mobile Hotspot

Price : $120

Wi-Fi : 802.11 b/g/n 2.4 GHz

• Small, weighing 4.4 oz and about the size of 8 credit cards stacked together
• Max speed 150 Mbps
• USB Type-C port
• Connect up to 10 devices
• Manage and buy data packages with the GlocalMe app

5. Best Budget Portable Wi-Fi Router – Alcatel LINKZONE MW41NF

Price : $60

Wi-Fi : 802.11b, 2.4 GHz

If you need a mobile hotspot that’s lightweight, inexpensive, and versatile in several countries, the Alcatel Linkzone MW41NF might be for you. This mobile hotspot device does require a SIM card, so it won’t work on CDMA services like Sprint, Virgin, or Verizon. Alcatel also warns about leaving it charging for more than 10 hours, leading to overheating.

• Small, weighing 10 oz and about the thickness of a cell phone
• Up to 7-hour battery life, 300 hours on standby
• Data speed up to 150 Mbps download
• Micro USB 2.0 slot
• Micros SD slot supporting up to 32GB
• WPS button for easy mobile Wi-Fi connection
• Connect up to 15 devices
• Managed by app
• Basic LED display

6. Runner Up Budget Portable Wi-Fi Router – Yeacomm P21-2 4G LTE CPE Router

Price : $99

Wi-Fi : 802.11 n/bg, 2.4 GHz

If you need greater Wi-Fi range and have somewhere to plug it in, the Yeacomm P21-2 may be for you. It’s affordable, yet it’s larger than the other mobile Wi-Fi routers listed. The Ethernet and phone ports are ideal for the cottage or remote offices. Yes, you can plug in landline phones and make voice calls over cellular.

• Two external antennas for a greater range
• 4 Ethernet ports
• 2 RJ-11 phone ports to connect landline phones
• Built-in VPN client
• Requires external power

7. Best High End Travel Wi-Fi Hotspot – GL.iNet GL-MT1300 Beryl

Price : $90

Wi-Fi : 802.11a/b/g/n/ac Dual Band 2.4GHz and 5GHz

The GL.iNet Beryl may be the cutest portable Wi-Fi router, but it’s also a beast when it comes to setting up a solid mobile internet connection. This mobile access point is small enough to fit in a pocket yet built with security and versatility at its core. The Beryl can be used as a Wi-Fi router, repeater, or tether to your phone through its USB 3.0 port.

• Uses OpenWRT firmware , making it highly configurable
• Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard to support over 30 VPN service providers
• Pre-installed Tor service
• Pre-installed Cloudflare for DNS security
• MicroSD support up to 512 GB
• USB 3.0 port
• 1 x WAN + 2 X LAN Gb Ethernet ports
• Max Wi-Fi speed 867 Mbps
• Must be plugged in

8. Runner Up High End Travel Wi-Fi Hotspo t – GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Slate

Price : $70

Slightly less cute and powerful, the GL.iNet Slate gives you most of the security features of the Beryl, support for sharing data from MicroSD cards, and respectable 433 Mbps Wi-Fi speeds. It can also be used as a range extender. Think of it as Beryl’s younger sibling that happens to be the same size.

• MicroSD support up to 128 GB
• USB 2.0 port
• Max Wi-Fi speed 433 Mbps

9. Best Affordable Travel Wi-Fi Router – TP-Link Wireless N Nano

Price : $35

Wi-Fi : ‎802.11a/b/g/n 2.4GHz

What’s with travel routers being cute? The TP-Link N300 is likely the most popular travel Wi-Fi router. The price, features, and 2-year warranty with unlimited technical support make it hard to beat, even if it was twice the price. Plus, it’s small enough to fit in a pocket, so it can travel in your laptop bag. Because it can be used as a repeater, access point (AP), or a mobile hotspot, you can use it even when you’re not traveling. Check out the Nano Router emulator page to see how it’s managed.

• Router, repeater, access point, and mobile hotspot modes
• Can be powered with an adapter, smartphone charger, or laptop USB port
• 1 x 10/100 Mbps WAN/LAN port
• 300 Mbps wireless speed
• Built-in firewall and access control
• Built-in parental controls
• Managed by app or web interface
• Guest network capable

10. Runner Up Affordable Travel Wi-Fi Router – MikroTik – hAP Mini

Price : $22

Wi-Fi : ‎802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz

MikroTik’s hAP mini is roughly 4 inches in height and length and under 2 inches in width. That’s small, considering it also has three ethernet ports. It uses the MikroTik RouterOS that’s configured to run out of the box, or you can access its web-based configuration page to make it do what you want. If anything, the depth of configuration possible may be too much. Of course, there’s an app as well.

• Minimum 5 years of free updates
• Bridging and routing capability
• 3 x 10/100 Mbps WAN/LAN port
• Extensive control over configuration
• Supports VPN and other security standards

11. Best Budget Travel Wi-Fi Router – GL.iNet microuter-N300

Wi-Fi : 802.11b/g/n 2.4GHz

Another entry from GL.iNet, the microrouter-N300 must be the smallest Wi-Fi router available. With such a small size comes fewer features and range. However, this wireless router is still very capable and energy efficient.

• Tiny at 2in x 2in x 0.72in and just over an ounce
• Uses OpenWRT firmware, making it highly configurable
• Router, repeater, and access point modes

12. Runner Up Budget Travel Wi-Fi Router – Kasda KW55293

Price : $16

It’s lower priced and has more ethernet ports than the GL.iNet microuter-N300, so why isn’t the Kasda the best in this class? It’s about the size of 6 microuter-N300s.  But at that price, it’s just too good to pass up.

• Wireless speed up to 300Mbps
• 4 LAN and 1 WAN Ethernet ports
• WPS for one-button connection of devices
• VPN pass-through
• MAC Filtering
• Web-based configuration
• LED status indicators
• Supports Telnet connections

Happy Trails and Safe Travels

One of our featured portable Wi-Fi routers is going to keep you connected while connecting with family and friends for the holidays. You may even want to give them as gifts. Could there be a better, affordable tech stocking stuffer?

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Best travel routers 2022

Travel routers have a clear job. They need to link up to a hotel or mobile 4G or 5G connection and supply that signal to your devices. But the best travel routers let you do more than connect to the internet. Some routers allow you to add a VPN to your connection, store files via a MicroSD card or hard drive, and let you charge your devices up. Here are the best picks for portable routers that will do a little more and keep your trip fuss-free.

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FTP-Link-Wireless-Travel-Router-TL-WR902AC%2Fdp%2FB01N5RCZQH%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> TP-Link TL-WR902AC Wireless Nano Travel Router

Compact and reliable

The TP-Link TL-WR902AC is a compact travel router that can handle a strong connection on the go with an assortment of options. Not only is it reliable for Wi-Fi, but it also has the ability to charge your devices. Its easy setup and small size make it the best choice for a travel router when you want to keep your bags light.

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FGL-iNet-GL-MT1300-Wireless-Pocket-Sized-Repeater%2Fdp%2FB08MKZXGBY%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> GL.iNet GL-MT1300 Beryl Gigabit Wireless Router

Powerful and secure

The GL.iNet GL-MT1300 travel router is a pricier option for people who want more LAN ports than the competition and a high-speed internet connection. It also supports a 512GB MicroSD card for local storage, which can be useful while traveling. It's not as tiny as the competition, but people looking to trade that for a more powerful router should consider this option.

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FGL-iNet-GL-AR750S-Ext-pre-Installed-Cloudflare-Included%2Fdp%2FB07GBXMBQF%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Slate Travel Router

Small and fast

A pricey but capable option for anyone looking for a travel router with a fair amount of LAN ports and the ability to maintain a fairly fast connection. This router also has support for VPNs and a 128GB MicroSD card for storage. It doesn't come in a small form factor, but it makes up for that in general throughput.

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FGL-iNET-GL-MT300N-V2-Repeater-300Mbps-Performance%2Fdp%2FB073TSK26W%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 Portable Travel Router

GL.iNet's GL-MT300N-V2 travel router is a cheaper alternative that maintains the features of the company's more expensive offerings. On top of that, it has a bit more RAM if you need to use several devices at once. The compact size and simplicity make it a great choice for a few people trying to get a solid connection while away from home.

<a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=8428&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FRAVPower-FileHub-Wireless-Portable-Transfer%2Fdp%2FB07P5QDQ1B%2F%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US""> RAVPower FileHub Travel Router

The RAVPower FileHub Travel Router is a solid option for anyone looking for a portable router that can also charge your devices. It also offers competitive internet speeds and the ability to connect to a hard drive for local storage. It's a multi-use device that might not excel at any one thing, but it will satisfy many needs without having to pack more things on your trip.

The best travel router

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The best travel routers do more of the heavy lifting during a trip, so you don't have to. A fast connection on the go is hard to find, especially if you want to add things like a VPN or local storage. Anyone who has gone on trips with lots of photos and video will know the struggles of trying to deal with hotel Wi-Fi. Typically, you need a way to power the travel router via USB, but picking up a strong power brick could make the process easier.

That's why the TP-Link TL-WR902AC travel router is a stellar pick for something that's both compact and useful when you're away from home. It has a solid chipset and a good amount of RAM for most people with a few devices that need to do simple tasks. It can also charge your devices! This extremely affordable travel router is the best pick if you're on a budget and don't need anything beyond your average connection.

For those who want to spend a bit more and can handle dropping the charging benefits of our top pick, the GL.iNet GL-MT1300 Beryl is a fantastic choice. It not only has more LAN ports for wired devices, but it also supports OpenWRT for anyone looking to add things like a VPN to their connection. It may be pricey, but it comes with generally strong hardware to keep up with several devices putting stress on the connection.

The RAVPower FileHub travel router is a niche choice, but a unique one for people looking for a lot out of their router, but it runs behind in usability compared to the competition.

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The 8 Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

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What Is a Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot?

Things to look for in a mobile wi-fi hotspot, frequencies explained: the difference between gsm and cdma, 1. keep in touch wherever you are using the glocalme 4g lte network, 2. rapid download speeds and superfast internet on the go, 3. best for professionals who need to keep connected, 4. global data roaming and mobile coverage in over 100 countries, 5. a powerful global wi-fi hotspot for use in over 160 countries, 6. compact and capable offering 18 hours of battery life, 7. superfast connectivity in over 135 countries, 8. connect 10 wi-fi enabled devices with this verizon jetpack, final thoughts.

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Whether you want to update your Insta on the go or need to keep in touch with the office, losing your internet signal can be very frustrating.

But it’s annoying (and can be unsafe) to rely on public Wi-Fi signals in every coffee shop you visit, and sometimes when traveling to remote locations, public connections are just not available.

Instead, you can invest in a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to ensure safe, secure, and reliable internet access anywhere you go. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best one for you.

A Wi-Fi hotspot is a battery-powered wireless router that travels with you. Designed to be compact and lightweight enough to slip into your purse or pocket, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot device brings the internet to your phone, tablet, or laptop, no matter where in the world it finds you.

These gadgets are a big bonus for anyone traveling away from public Wi-Fi or those looking for a secure connection. A bit like a cellular device, your Wi-Fi hotspot provides access to invisible signals in the sky, all of which can help you to upload pics or receive your emails on the move.

You will need to pay for the data you use, which can be done in the form of packages or day passes that offer unlimited access for a set period of time.

Bottom Line: Using 3G or 4G (and maybe even 5G in the coming months), these smart little devices emit a reliable and incredibly useful Wi-Fi signal that you can hook your favorite gadgets and devices to while away from home.

Battery Life

Most batteries will run happily for between 5-6 hours at a time. If you are traveling somewhere with easy access to electricity, you should be able to charge overnight to ensure your hotspot works when you need it for your daily adventures. If you spend a disproportionately large amount of time online, you may want to look at a device that offers a longer battery life.

Size and Weight

Your Wi-Fi hotspot should be small enough to be carried everywhere with you. After all, if it’s not entirely portable, what exactly is the point? Slimline, lightweight, and often smaller than the smartphone you are trying to connect to, these devices are compact and clever.

Wi-Fi Support

Because some mobile internet providers are better than others, the coverage you receive from any Wi-Fi hotspot can also vary. For example, 2.4GHz gives coverage at a more extended range but will transmit the data at a much slower speed. A 5GHz band, on the other hand, will provide less range with data transmitted at a much faster speed.

Though they may be small, they are still mighty, and most hotspot devices will have a built-in display. At the very least, the display should indicate remaining battery life and current Wi-Fi signal strength. Others may offer bonus features like SMS messages or touch screen modes.

Card Reader

Some portable Wi-Fi hotspots come with the capability to read MicroSD memory cards, which can be used to store and access files from your laptop or home computer. You can also share your stored files with the people who use your network when you want them to have access.

MicroSD memory cards are not typically included with the purchase of a Wi-Fi hotspot, but they are a useful addition that allows you to send and receive SMS messages and save images, music, and other data-heavy files.

Mobile data is delivered using 1 of 2 types of cellular signals in different countries and regions around the world. These cellular standards allow for communication between individuals; without them, we would not be able to keep in touch on such a global scale.

Known as GSM and CDMA, each standard converts both incoming and outgoing radio waves in entirely different ways. Before you buy a hotspot, you need to understand its function and where you’ll be able to use it.

Global System for Mobile Communication is used in most countries around the world. In the U.S., only AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. GSM uses Time Division Multiple Access (or TDMA), which allocates time slots to multiple conversation streams and alters how phones transmit their information. Doing this requires a SIM card (or “subscriber identification module” card).

It is the SIM card that holds all the information you need to make calls, use mobile internet, and store your contacts. The SIM card tells the device what services you have access to and is vital for GSM communications on the go.

CDMA is used in countries including Russia and the U.S. ( Sprint , Verizon , and US Cellular), and it grants users full access to a wide spectrum of bandwidth, meaning more users can connect at any one time. It also encodes each signal, meaning that every conversation remains protected and filtered.

CDMA does not rely on SIM cards as the device has the technology built into it from the carriers’ networks. This once meant that if you wanted to change carriers, you would need to buy a new device altogether. These days though, many CDMA devices offer the capability to use a SIM card too, especially for those on LTE networks.

Bottom Line: Different countries (and different carriers) use different technologies. In the U.S., Sprint, Verizon, and US Cellular use CDMA, while AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. When it comes to purchasing a hotspot, make sure you understand what type you’re buying, what countries it will work in, and what providers it will function with.

The 8 Best Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel

Glocalme g4 4g lte mobile hotspot.

With a global SIM-free connection, you can quickly and easily access the internet without worrying about a local SIM card or roaming charges. The 4G LTE high-speed network connects up to 10 devices at a time. Enjoy 50Mbps upload speeds and an innovative GlocalMe app that uses a dedicated security protocol to ensure your Wi-Fi connection is always safe.

You can also easily manage your data usage from anywhere in the world. With an initial 1GB of data included to see you on your way, you can easily top up your data using the GlocalMe app, which is specifically designed to work in a variety of different countries and regions.

Bottom Line: With 1 SIM card slot and the ability to connect to unlocked Wi-Fi hotspots wherever you are, the G4 will provide you with up to 12 hours of nonstop usage from a single charge.

Huawei E5577Cs-321 4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

Huawei’s Wi-FI hotspot is both affordable and reliable — and it’s good enough to give some of the more prominent brand alternatives a real run for their money.

This hotspot offers rapid download speeds of up to 150 Mbps 4G LTE and 43.2 Mbps 3G download , connection for up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices, 6 hours of working time, and a whopping 300 hours of standby time.

Bottom Line: The TFT-LCD screen with 2D Barcode secure connection is easy to use, and the device itself is unlocked for all networks — you can even choose your SIM card if you want to.

Huawei  E5576-320  4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Router

This high-speed mobile router and multi-mode wireless terminal is for use in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The hotspot offers 16 Wi-Fi connections at a time, and the unlocked carrier connection means you can use 3G signals from any provider. Controllable via the innovative Huawei Mobile Wi-Fi app, you can enjoy uploads and connectivity for up to 6 hours using the 1500 mAh battery.

Bottom Line: While this device model will not work in the Americas or the United States, it is an affordable solution for those traveling to other parts of the world.

Keepgo Global Lifetime 4G/LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot for Europe, Asia, & the Americas

The Keepgo MiFi device includes a pay-as-you-go SIM card that comes complete with 1GB of global data roaming, and extra data can easily be obtained on the go.

This Wi-Fi hotspot can connect up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices at a time . Offering mobile internet coverage in 105 different countries, you can enjoy up to 6 hours of battery time and over 300 hours of standby time on 1 charge.

Bottom Line: You’ll appreciate this device’s instant online activation that will have you browsing straight out of the box.

RoamWiFi 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot Router

The RoamWiFi Mobile Router is a powerful global Wi-Fi hotspot with super-fast 4G LTE speeds that can be used in over 160 different countries and shared to 5 connections. Sleek and stylish, the simple orange hotspot can be stored in your carry-on luggage and will be easy to find when you get there.

By far, the most impressive feature of this particular model is the whopping 18 hours of battery life . 500MB of data can be purchased for as little as $2.90 per day.

Bottom Line: All-in-all, this is a tremendous little Wi-Fi hotspot for your next adventure.

Netgear Unite Explore AC815S Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

This slim 4G LTE-capable device provides super-fast internet and as much as 18 hours of battery life on a single charge to as many as 15 Wi-Fi devices on the go.

Super easy to use, the color LCD screen shows you all the network info you need, as well as displaying battery life and connectivity levels.

Bottom Line: Made by one of the most trusted names in communications, the Unite Explore is a reliable Wi-Fi hotspot for travelers looking for longer battery life.

SIMO Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot

With no contract or SIM card required, this convenient little device will ensure you’re always connected on the go. The virtual SIM technology is compatible with most major carriers, and you can control everything through the handy Solis WiFi app.

You can connect up to 10 different devices with up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. As well as keeping you connected, this mobile hotspot doubles up as a power bank, so you’ll never run out of charge.

Bottom Line: With SIMO Solis, users can enjoy day pass Wi-Fi, pay as you go access by gigabyte, or monthly and yearly subscriptions.

Verizon MiFi Jetpack 4620L

Brought to you by the communication experts at Verizon, this MiFi Jetpack offers superior connectivity and speedy internet access virtually anywhere in the world. With the ability to connect up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices in 4G and up to 5 devices in 3G, this is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

Compatible with all major operating systems including Windows, Mac OSX, Android, and iOS, you can quickly and easily connect your phone, tablet, or laptop. The interactive OLED display shows you when you are connected, as well as the connection status and how many users are connected. It can even alert you when you receive a new SMS message.

Bottom Line: With up to 5 hours of usage available from a single charge, this impressive MiFi mobile Wi-Fi device is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

With a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, you are no longer at the mercy of unsecured, cumbersome, and often super-slow public Wi-Fi signals when you take to the road. Your very own Wi-Fi allows you to download data, upload images, and keep in touch with civilization, no matter how far away you go.

Before you commit to a connection, look for a mobile Wi-Fi device that is compact and portable with a large enough battery to last you all day. Your new Wi-Fi hotspot should also be simple to use, easy to connect to, and ideally able to offer a connection to several different devices (especially if you’re traveling with friends).

Lastly, don’t miss these other tech-related product reviews to level up your travel game!

• The Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers for Travel
• What are the Best GoPro Alternatives? [10+ Options]
• The Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel
• Travel Product Reviews – Tech & Photography Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best mobile wi-fi hotspot for travelers.

Our vote is for the GlocalMe G4 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot.

Do mobile hotspots work internationally?

Many mobile hotspots do work internationally, but this would depend on what plan your device is on. Many plans include a set amount of international data, while others offer unlimited usage for a set fee.

Can mobile hotspot replace home Wi-Fi?

Although mobile hotspots can be used in place of home Wi-Fi, it usually carries higher usage costs. If you are a heavy downloader or video streamer, you would likely be better off registering for a home Wi-Fi service.

Which is better Wi-Fi or hotspot?

Hotspots usually offer slower speeds and less security than Wi-Fi; however, it is convenient if you’re on the move, and there are no guarantees that you will be able to access a Wi-Fi connection.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The best portable WiFi of 2024

Don’t strain your phone plan—here are reliable options for keeping your WiFi close and handy.

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We are living in the age of the “Internet of Things.” Nearly every device—from your phones to your lamps to your toothbrush—has WiFi capabilities, and the interconnected IoT network almost requires you to be always on all the time. This reality is one of the reasons we recommend everyone pick up one of the best WiFi boosters for their home, as there’s a lot more competition for bandwidth in the age of work/school/game/stream from home than there used to be. But what if you’re on the go and the work can’t wait? What if you’re out and about and really need to be connected? Don’t worry, you don’t need to go over your data cap as you’re going over wide-ranging terrain with the best portable WiFi options.

Rather than overloading your cellular data plan or hoping that if you wander around long enough you’ll stumble onto a strong, free WiFi signal, you can actually bring your WiFi along with you. Portable WiFi—also called mobile WiFi or mobile routers—is exactly what it sounds like: small, easily transportable devices that act just like your WiFi router at home. Instead of being attached to a phone cable, however, they operate with a SIM card, which allows the phone to connect to your phone or cable provider just like a hardwired modem would at home. The best portable WiFi device will enable you to set up your own private Internet connection, practically anywhere in the world, on at least 10 devices simultaneously, including phones, laptops, tablets, and iPads, games consoles, and cameras.

You have a lot of options when it comes to a portable WiFi device, which ranges in size, functionality, and connectivity. Selecting the right one will require you to assess your specific needs, how mobile you intend to be (are you, say, literally hopping from train to station to car, or are you settling down in a cafe), and how fast you need your downloads and uploads. Here’s some information to get you started.

Best designed: TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router

Best battery life: roamwifi r10, most user-friendly: glocalme g4 pro 4g lte mobile hotspot, best for connection speed: netgear mobile wifi hotspot, best budget: kuwfi 4g lte, the best portable wifi: reviews & recommendations.

The TP-Link is compact, simple, looks great, and can fit in a pocket or the pouch of a knapsack. It can deliver 300Mbps WiFi speed on a 2.4G hertz band, which makes it great for streaming and online gaming. it’s compatible with Chromecast, and powers via a Micro USB port. We like it because it’s sleek, secure, and efficient.

The RoamWiFi R10 supports 4G LTE high-speed network, with a maximum upload speed of 50Mbps and a maximum download speed of 433Mbps. But its main selling point is that it provides a solid 18 hours of battery life after a full charge (which is about 3 hours). It’s small, as easy to carry around as a smartphone, and provides strong, secure connections.

The GlocalMe G4 allows you to connect up to 10 devices at once—but the best part is how easily it allows you to manage those connections. With its smartphone-like user interface, it makes managing device usage, tracking battery life, and connecting to available signals as easy as using an app. It has its own data plan and package rates, so those not looking to deal with SIM cards will find this an added convenience.

To be honest, NetGear’s 400 Mbps of download speed might even be better than what you get on your home desktop. Designed to be portable and convenient, the NetGear offers 11 hours of battery life, a color LCD display, and the ability to connect to up to 15 devices at once.

The KuWFi comes in at just under $50, but offers 4G LTE connectivity, low power consumption, and the ability to share up to 10 devices. It has a clear, colorful LED screen showing battery life, connection strength, and other pieces of information, and is compatible with a number of SIM cards and data storage cards.

Things to consider when shopping for the best portable WiFi

When you’re on the lookout for devices designed to help you be more product and more connected—which is exactly what the best portable WiFi devices are meant to do—it’s easy to fall into the trap of something big and complex and seemingly all-powerful, only to discover that you only actually need a fraction of its capabilities for your everyday use. Knowing exactly how you work, and where your own personal trouble spots are, will help you narrow your focus and get a device that does exactly what you need it to do. With the right research (which we’ve happily done for you), you can narrow down the copious options and identify the perfect portable companion for all your on-the-go network needs.

Do you want something you won’t mind carrying around with you?

It’s not shallow to say that how a device looks goes a long way towards how willing you’ll be to carrying it around with you. A clunky, brick-like device is going to become a burden, and you’ll end up not getting as much use out of it as you should. It goes beyond aesthetics, too, as a well-designed device will be user-friendly and convenient in addition to being a cool part of your portable communications system.

Your search should consider the overall size of the device, its functionality, and how easily it will mesh with your other devices. Honing in on these key factors will ensure you get a portable WiFi router you’ll use again and again.

Can it give you enough battery life if a power source isn’t available?

It’s mankind’s biggest collective struggle in the modern age—the constant raging against the dying of the battery. From phones to laptops, tiny battery icons taunt us from their top corner perches, slowly bleeding down until their red bars inform you that you’d better wrap it up, save your data, and hurry to an outlet before all of your work is lost.

Although a lot of portable WiFi devices can be powered via USB, you may find yourself in a situation where WiFi is needed but a USB-compatible device may not be available. Here’s where to find a mobile hotspot that will cover you even if you have to rely on battery power.

Are you looking for portable WiFi you can use immediately without fuss?

The main selling point of portable WiFi is convenience. Whether you want portable WiFi for travel, or you’re looking for a strong connection when you happen to be away from your home base unit, you need something you can rely on that won’t be overly complicated or difficult to manage.

Finding a mobile WiFi router that puts user interface first and foremost will ensure you feel comfortable using it again and again, and that you get the most out of it every single time. Look for devices that have easily-readable screens, simple navigating, and convenient information accessibility.

How fast do you need your WiFi connection to be?

Perhaps the biggest reason to invest in a portable WiFi router is that you intend to download or upload files on a regular basis, and need both the speed and convenience of a strong WiFi signal to do it. A smartphone alone is fine for emails and texts, but for anything bigger or more complex, you need a fast Internet connection without question.

It used to be you’d need to be hard-wired to process anything bigger than a few megabytes, but there are options available now that can deliver fast upload and download speeds even if you are on the go.

Are you a Verizon customer looking for portable WiFi?

Depending on where in the world you live, you may have a lot of public WiFi hotspots available for your use. While they allow you to access WiFi without an Internet provider, they do come with some security risks. If you have a specific cell or internet provider, you can access private WiFi hotspots that offer premium prepaid internet access that’s much cheaper than using mobile data, and more secure.

There are some mobile WiFi devices that are geared specifically for one provider—say, for example, if you are a Verizon customer. Being able to connect to a service you already use can save a lot of hassle, and help you avoid having to use insecure, public networks that could expose your data.

Best portable WiFi device on a budget: What you can get for under $50

Portable WiFi devices aren’t, generally speaking, among the most expensive pieces of technology. Even the higher-end devices usually sit under $200, so finding the best portable WiFi option on a budget isn’t too difficult.

Q: Can portable WiFi replace my home internet?

The short answer is: Yes, it can. Doing so could save you money on internet provider packages and contracts, but keep in mind that if you live in a household that tends to go heavy on internet usage (say, a family where it’s not uncommon for a TV to be streaming in one room, someone Internet surfing on another, and people playing online games in yet another), it’ll be tough to find a mobile router up to handle it all.

Q: Do I need a new data plan for portable WiFi?

Not necessarily. Most portable WiFi devices operate with SIM cards, which allow you to get internet access even if you don’t have an internet provider at all.

Q: Does portable WiFi work without service?

Yes, the purpose of a mobile router is to be the source of connection to the Internet, without having to rely on your phone’s service connection.

A final word on shopping for the best portable WiFi

The ease and convenience of a mobile WiFi router really can’t be overstated. Having the ability to connect to the internet with home computer speeds anywhere in the world opens you up to all new possibilities—whether you need it for remote work or for frequent traveling. Knowing your own usage tendencies as well as what kind of work assets you need (are you sharing simple Word Docs or do you need to traffic in heavier images or video?) will go a long way towards narrowing down your selection. Once you find the perfect mix of portable and reliable, the world is your oyster.

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NETGEAR Nighthawk M5 5G Hotspot with WiFi 6 (MR5200) Ultrafast Router | Works Best with AT&T and T-Mobile | Connects Up to 32 Devices | Secure Wireless Network Anywhere

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• Connector Type : USB
• Delivers up to 7x faster speed than 4G. Backward compatible for 4G devices
• WIFI 6: Connect and stream up to 32 devices simultaneously at fast 1.8Gbps speed
• Connect to your existing home router using the Gigabit Ethernet port for fast, reliable primary or backup Internet connection. Ideal for homes with poor internet service or coverage
• Avoid the risks of public WiFi with your own secure Wireless Network anywhere
• Unlocked for 5G around the world using your provider’s Nano SIM card. Works best with AT&T, T-Mobile. Not compatible with Sprint legacy network. Please check with preferred provider on 5G data plan details and limitations
• Requires Nano SIM card from carrier and activation of compatible BYOD (Bring Your own Device) 5G data plan that meets your data needs

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The Nighthawk M5 5G WiFi 6 Mobile Router provides 5G blazing fast mobile broadband Internet. Dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi 6 is ideal for mobile connectivity; from fast throughput to high-end video streaming on smartphones, tablets, and computers. Manage your device using the simple and intuitive NETEAR Mobile app.

What's in the box

• Nighthawk M5 Mobile Router device and battery
• Quick start Guide
• Safety information sheet
• USB Type-C cable

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So far we are loving the NetGear Nighthawk mobile router! Great for fulltime travel & #camping!

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How do we have wifi on the road? Here's how! #camp #camping #rv #rvlife #lifeontheroad #vanlife

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Product information, technical details, additional information, warranty & support, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the performance of the router. For example, they say it works great for streaming on YouTube and Twitch. That said, some complain about connectivity. Opinions are mixed on signal strength, dependability, ease of use, value, and compatibility.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the performance of the router. They say it works great on the Verizon network, is useful for streaming on YouTube and Twitch, and has no problems with using non-AT&T service.

"...The device performs nicely -- 5 stars for that! The included Quick Start Guide is not for old eyes (tiny print and pix)...." Read more

"... It works great , and I like it but it was a pain to get going. Oh, then I found it cheaper online after I purchased this... Shope around." Read more

"...We would burn through that in days. Tried a T-Mobile sim and it wouldn’t activate at all . They said that unit is also not supposed...." Read more

"...(in German and Senegal), bought a chip, and plugged it in, all works fine . Will try it in France this summer." Read more

Customers are mixed about the signal strength of the router. Some mention that it has blazing fast speeds and can handle 200 mbps. However, others say that it's worth $100 tops, has a weak signal transmitter and receiver, and has poor performance.

"...This mobile hotspot really came through with unbelievable speeds and very stable to boot. I also ordered the AT&T 5G nano sim here on Amazon...." Read more

"... Data speed was all over the place during the upgrade. Again the problem was not the MR5200 and disregard the prior review." Read more

"...3 more tests and found the speeds to be consistent . Then I plugged in my Netgear mimo antenna. Speeds increased to 176 down and 33 up...." Read more

"...I recommend this for anyone who wants an easy to use 5G capable hotspot .I did not get a free product or rebate for giving my review...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the value of the networking router. Some mention it's a little expensive but worth it for a quality product, while others say it'll be an expensive paper weight.

"...So what's the final conclusion? It's pricey but if you need fast stable 5G for your WiFi devices, you won't find a better device." Read more

" This unit is amazing . I use it for my main Internet in Vietnam (only 4G here). No problems with using non AT&T service. Very dependable and fast...." Read more

"...decided to buy this item I was over the moon excited, despite its high price tag ...." Read more

" Expensive but awesome product . Streams well, customer support was also good. Well worth the investment AND you take it with you wherever you go." Read more

Customers are mixed about the dependability of the networking router. Some mention that it's very dependable and fast, while others say that it is not worth buying and a complete waste of $700.

"...Anyway, I am returning the device because it does not satisfy my intended purpose --- unlimited data ISP." Read more

"...mobile hotspot really came through with unbelievable speeds and very stable to boot . I also ordered the AT&T 5G nano sim here on Amazon...." Read more

"...It just doesn't justify the price ." Read more

"...I have 5 bars most of the time, and the unit has proven to be pretty reliable ." Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of use of the networking router. Some mention it's easy to set-up and use, while others say it'll take a while to get going. The included quick start guide is not for old eyes and the activation process is an absolute nightmare.

"...I had just bought this MiFi a few days before this, it was very easy to set up !..." Read more

"I purchased this product a couple of weeks ago. It's easy to set-up and use ...." Read more

"...Search "AT&T 5G TRIPLECUT SIM".Although activating the SIM was an absolute nightmare (AT&T activation process gets ZERO stars), this..." Read more

"...I recommend highly. It is very easy to set up also." Read more

Customers are mixed about the compatibility of the networking router. Some mention that the device itself is great, awesome, and amazing, while others say that it's not compatible with the TMobile 100GB plan and the AT&T network.

"The device is good and does connect to 5G T-mobile. I find the internet to be slow and the interface to be very limited...." Read more

"...the IMEI number into Verizon's site will show that this unit is not compatible . **..." Read more

"...Always had problems until I got this. It’s amazing . Never any lag streaming either...." Read more

" Not compatible with T-Mobile " Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the connectivity of the router. They mention that it loses Internet connection often, has issues connecting with T-Mobile, and has unreliable VPN connections. The WiFi signal begins to drop and disconnects too often for no reason. Some say that the router is not compatible with the AT&T network and never had 5G signal.

"...When I received it and popped the T-mobile SIM card in and no network was showing up , I thought to myself, must be a T-mobile error during..." Read more

"...But I really hope they make a better unit. Disconnects too often for no reason . This is a true 3 star review...." Read more

"...issue is I cant more than 10 ft away from the device or the wifi signal begins to drop . My mofo I was able to go to any room no issues...." Read more

"...unit consistently loses it's Internet connection, which only reconnects via a Hard Reboot . There is NO Tech Support available to solve the problem...." Read more

Customers are disappointed with the strength of the router. They mention that it's not as strong as their phone and that it breaks up on video about 50% of the time.

"...It breaks up on video about 50% of the time, but you can work around it. Unit reset today for no reason. Frustrating. AT&T is part of the problem...." Read more

"...So it seems like the receiver is not as strong as say what your phone may have...." Read more

" not strong not worth it ..." Read more

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Specifications

/ 4 Download

AC750 Wireless Travel Router

• Transforms any internet connection into a private AC750 dual-band Wi-Fi network*
• Incredibly compact router fits easily in your pocket, purse or bag, perfect for traveling
• Works with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz devices, including Chromecast and Amazon Fire TV Stick
• USB port lets you share files or conveniently charge any device with up to 5V/1A of power
• Flexible powering options let you connect to an external adapter or USB port

How to install and configure your portable router(TL-WR902AC)

Fast Wi-Fi Travels with You!

Portable and compact.

The incredibly compact TL-WR902AC is the world’s first AC750 travel router. Take it with you to create a personal Wi-Fi spot anywhere internet is available. It fits easily in your pocket, purse or bag and is perfect for use while traveling. Watch movies over private dual-band Wi-Fi at a hotel.

Dual-Band AC for Fast Wi-Fi Speeds

The travel router creates fast AC750 Wi-Fi over dual 2.4 GHz (300 Mbps) and 5 GHz (433 Mbps) bands. Dual bands allow for more devices to be connected to your personal network and provide reliable Wi-Fi access so you can enjoy what you love without interruptions.

802.11n 2.4G 300Mbps

802.11ac 5G 433Mbps

 Multiple Wi-Fi Modes for Any Situation

Whether you need a private Wi-Fi network while away or something to boost your Wi-Fi at home, the TL-WR902AC has a mode for you.

During Travel

1. router mode.

Plug the travel router in to your hotel room's Ethernet port to create a private Wi-Fi network for internet access without needing to compete with other guests.

2. Hotspot Mode

Connect to an outdoor WISP Access Point, enjoy a private Wi-Fi hotspot for your devices in public areas.

3. Range Extender Mode

Extend your existing Wi-Fi network to maximize coverage and eliminate dead zones.

4. Client Mode

Allow devices that require a wired connection to access an existing Wi-Fi network.

Desktop or Game Console

5. Access Point Mode

Create a wireless network for Wi-Fi enabled devices.

Multifunctional USB Port for File Sharing and Charging

A The travel router comes with a built-in USB 2.0 sharing port. Connect a USB storage drive to share access to files, download movies and back up recent photos. Connect your smartphone cable and the router doubles as a 5V/1A charging station for one device.

*Maximum wireless transmission rates are the physical rates derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Range and coverage specifications along with the number of connected devices were defined according to test results under normal usage conditions. Actual wireless transmission rate, wireless coverage, and number of connected devices are not guaranteed, and will vary as a result of 1) environmental factors, including building materials, physical objects and obstacles, 2) network conditions, including local interference, volume and density of traffic, product location, network complexity, and network overhead and 3) client limitations, including rated performance, location, connection quality, and client condition.

Actual network speed may be limited by the rate of the product's Ethernet WAN or LAN port, the rate supported by the network cable, Internet service provider factors and other environmental conditions.

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The best mobile hotspot in 2024: top 4G LTE and 5G hotspots for working from home

Stay connected wherever you are with the best mobile hotspot around today

• Best overall
• Best hybrid
• Best 4G LTE
• How to choose
• How we test

1.  Best overall 2. Best 5G 3. Best hybrid 4. Best 4G LTE 5. Best UK 6. FAQ 7. How to choose 8. How we test

The best mobile hotspot in 2024 is more relevant than ever in today's fast-paced environment, and one can find a range of options offering fast, secure internet connectivity virtually anywhere around the globe. These devices are particularly vital for those needing a reliable and secure internet connection for business purposes, where using public Wi-Fi hotspots might pose security risks.

The advancement in mobile network technology means you no longer have to compromise on internet speed. With 4G, users can experience speeds that rival traditional broadband connections, especially in areas with strong network coverage. This ensures a smooth browsing experience, often surpassing the performance of free or shared Wi-Fi spots that typically come with data limits and heavy traffic.

Moreover, the expansion of 5G coverage is revolutionizing internet connectivity. 5G, the latest in mobile internet technology, offers speeds that not only match but often exceed those of broadband internet. This rapid pace of 5G adoption is gradually bringing more 5G mobile hotspots into the market. While the options are still growing, we include only the best in our list, ensuring they meet high standards of performance and reliability.

For those relying heavily on mobile data for work or personal use, the transition from 4G to 5G can be a game-changer. Some network providers are even offering upgrades from 4G to 5G contracts at no extra cost. Investing in one of the best 5G mobile hotspots could significantly enhance your productivity and internet experience.

As technology continues to evolve, we're also beginning to see the emergence of the best Wi-Fi 6E routers that feature 5G connectivity as well. These routers promise even faster and more efficient internet connectivity, making them an exciting development in the world of mobile hotspots. Stay tuned as we guide you through the best mobile hotspot options available in 2024, helping you stay connected, secure, and productive wherever you go.

• We’ve also rounded up the best mobile broadband deals
• Check out the best powerline adapters for expanding your network

The best mobile hotspot of 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The Best mobile hotspot overall

1. inseego 5g mifi m1000, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you're a Verizon customer who can get the company's 5G network, the great news is that the Inseego 5G MiFi M1000 is your best 5G hotspot. It offers dual-band Wi-Fi support and includes USB-C and Ethernet tethering for devices requiring a wired connection. 

The battery life is large enough to power you throughout the day and charges quickly. The only issue is that while this is great for Verizon customers if you're not with the network or live outside the US, this isn't the right choice for you - so check out our other picks below.

On the hunt for a new webcam for your next business meeting? Then make sure to check out our review of the best business webcams .

The Best 5G mobile hotspot

2. htc 5g hub.

The HTC 5G Hub is the best 5G mobile hotspot money can buy. Sure, there's not much competition out there now, as 5G is still relatively new, but HTC has come out of the gate with a winner.

EE, the UK's biggest network provider, offers data subscriptions with this hotspot. 

It's not cheap – you pay £100 upfront and then £50 a month for 50GB of data – but you are getting a very accomplished kit.

It can handle up to 20 wireless devices connected simultaneously, which should be enough for most households, and an Ethernet port for wired devices. 

A powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor powers the device, and a 5-inch HD touchscreen gives you all the information you need to keep an eye on your 5G network. It also has a large battery life that should keep you going while you're out and about.

The Best mobile and Wi-Fi hotspot

3. netgear nighthawk m6 pro wi-fi router.

This small, portable mobile router makes a great companion for business travelers and remote working. The M6 Pro is a beast of a hotspot that offers some of the latest and greatest features for staying connected on the go. The device comes unlocked for all major mobile networks and supports 5G data speeds with WiFi 6E connectivity. 

The built-in battery provides about 13 hours of run time, plenty for a full day’s work, and offers 2.4GHz, 5.0GHz, and the new 6.0GHz frequency bands. Also included is a mains power adapter for working indoors near an outlet.

While it may be overkill for some, for those who need the fastest speeds and all-day connectivity, the Nighthawk M6 should jump to the top of your list.

Read the full review: Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro Wi-Fi Router

The Best 4G LTE hotspot

4. tp-link m7350 v4 4g lte mobile hotspot.

The TP-Link M7350 may be a little chunkier than some of the other top mobile hotspots on this list, but it remains an excellent mobile hotspot that supports both micro and nano SIM cards. This means it will almost certainly be compatible with your own SIM card. 

It has a small display informing you about your connection and supports dual-band Wifi on both 2.4 and 5GHz. Up to 10 devices can access it simultaneously, and performance is very good on 4G LTE. It's also unlikely to run out of juice when you need it most, with a 2000mAh battery that guarantees around eight hours of 4G connectivity.

Need some tips on sending large files without requiring bloated emails? Check out our list of the best ways to send large files in 2024

The Best mobile hotspot in the UK

5. ee 4gee wifi mini mobile hotspot.

The EE 4GEE WiFi Mini is one of the better-looking mobile hotspot devices on this list, and its compact design means it can be easily carried around with you. The 1500mAh offers up to 50 hours on standby and six hours when connected to the internet. 

It can support up to 10 devices at once, but it doesn't have an LCD screen, like the TP-Link M7350, so it's not quite as user-friendly. You also need to use the EE network, which isn't too much of a hardship due to EE's coverage and fast 4G speeds, and the network offers a range of data plans to go alongside the EE 4GEE WiFi Mini. 

However, if you want something more future-proof, check out the HTC 5G Hub at the top of this list of EE's best mobile hotspots.

Best mobile hotspot: Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mobile hotspot.

A mobile hotspot can be plugged in almost anywhere to provide users with a mobile Wi-Fi network. It does so by connecting to a 4G or 5G data network and transmitting a secure Wi-Fi connection that can be used by a limited number of users who have required login details. 

The best mobile hotspots: how to choose

There are several factors to consider when aiming to whittle down the choice of the best mobile hotspots to just one. 

First, consider the reasons behind your interest. If security is a big concern - and with public Wi-Fi hotspots not usually secure and often unreliable, it certainly should be - then you might want to consider mobile hotspots that offer robust security features or additional ethernet ports. Speed should also be a consideration, and you might wish to purchase a hotspot that is 5G compatible when this becomes more prevalent. 

Lastly, consider how many users the hotspot will have. If it's just you, you'll have a pick of the lot, but if you're in a business with upwards of ten users, you'll have a more limited selection.

The best mobile hotspots: How we test

On this page, we've looked at mobile hotspots that offer the best speed, the number of devices they can accommodate, and other key factors such as port availability and dual-band capability. 

The 4G and 5G mobile hotspots we've listed are battery-powered modem routers that use a SIM card that connects to the internet via cellular data and broadcasts a secure Wi-Fi network to which you can connect your device.

Note that while we've analyzed and rated the technical performance of each hotspot, we haven't touched upon the running costs, which will vary according to your provider. As with smartphone SIM cards, you'll need a data contract and pay for the service, either a monthly rolling contract or a pay-as-you-go SIM , which can be a more affordable choice if you only need to use these devices sporadically. 

• Don't forget to check out the best wireless routers

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Désiré has been musing and writing about technology during a career spanning four decades. He dabbled in website builders and web hosting when DHTML and frames were in vogue and started narrating about the impact of technology on society just before the start of the Y2K hysteria at the turn of the last millennium.

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5 Ways to Get Wi-Fi in Any Car, Old or New

• Utilize your smartphone's hotspot to easily and affordably get Wi-Fi in your car, connecting multiple devices without the need for additional data purchases.
• Consider getting a dedicated mobile Wi-Fi hotspot device for uninterrupted connectivity and the ability to make phone calls without affecting the internet connection.
• For a more permanent solution, use a vehicle Wi-Fi accessory like an OBD-II device or install a wireless modem and router with 4G LTE for reliable Wi-Fi in your car, although these options can be more expensive and less portable.

There is no need to feel disheartened if your old car does not come with a Wi-Fi facility. Thanks to technological innovations, you now have more Wi-Fi options in your vehicle than ever before.

Over time, the techniques have also become cost-effective and offer more convenience to the users. So, it's time to check out how to get a Wi-Fi connection in your car.

1. Smartphone Hotspot

It's hard to imagine a car owner without a smartphone. The easiest and cheapest way to get Wi-Fi in an old car is to utilize your phone's hotspot.

Turning your smartphone into a hotspot lets you connect tablets, MP3 players, and other Wi-Fi-enabled devices to this ad hoc network. Here, the idea is to make your smartphone function like a modem and router simultaneously.

Depending on the phone model, you can turn on the hotspot option from the phone settings or use a suitable app. In most phones, you will find the hotspot option in the Quick Settings menu, which you can access by swiping down on your screen.

The biggest advantage of using this method is its extreme simplicity. You can turn it on in a few taps. It also does not require you to make additional data purchases.

The drawback of the smartphone hotspot is that it contributes to phone battery drain and data plan consumption. Your phone might also get hot when connected to multiple devices. Also, this won't be suitable while you're traveling abroad. Furthermore, the number of devices you can connect to your smartphone hotspot depends on the device you're using and your data throughput.

You should note that some car-specific services will not function with a smartphone hotspot.

2. Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

If you want an uninterrupted Wi-Fi connection but need to receive frequent calls from your family or colleagues, it's better to drop the idea of using the smartphone hotspot. Phone calls you make using the cellular network will hamper the internet connection.

Instead, you can adopt the idea of getting a dedicated hotspot device (one of the different types of mobile hotspots ), also known as mobile broadband. It'll allow you non-stop internet connectivity anywhere within your cell network coverage.

These devices essentially have the facility to include cellular data connections as phones. It creates a wireless network to which you can connect your devices. However, don't expect the device to do other things that you can do using a smartphone.

Mobile Wi-Fi hotspots support different data plans; you can even use them outside your car, like in a shopping mall or at the beach. They get their power from a USB connection and do not rely on a battery.

Fortunately, they are easy to set up and come with additional security. Moreover, you won't face any performance issues if you connect multiple devices. The disadvantage of this option is it requires you to get a separate data plan. You'll also need to set this up on a PC for the first time. Thus, if you are often on the go and need the internet at all times, getting your hands on any one of the best portable mobile hotspots can be beneficial.

3. OBD-II Device

If you're looking for a more permanent solution, vehicle Wi-Fi accessories like Onboard Diagnostic port (OBD-II) are the right choice. However, the OBD-II-based solution will require a 4G LTE SIM and data plan from a mobile career. Some OBD-II Wi-Fi Internet solutions require more than one device.

For example, the Verizon Hum car Wi-Fi solution has an OBD Reader, the Hum Speaker, and a dedicated mobile app for operations control.

The Wi-Fi device will work till there is a power supply to the OBD-II port. Hence, if you stop the car engine, Wi-Fi won't work. Installing this device is easy since you need to plug it into the vehicle's OBD-II port.

It's the same connector technicians use for computer diagnosis. Cars in the US have had this port since 1996. If you're wondering about its location, check the left part of your steering column below the car dashboard. If it's not there, you may find it under a protective cover or behind a latch. You may, however, always visit a local car technician for the installation.

The benefits of this device are cellular data access to multiple devices, a local Wi-Fi network, tracking real-time vehicle location, car location history, and fetching engine control unit (ECU) or power control module (PCM) data.

4. Install a Wireless Modem and Router With 4G LTE

By installing a wireless modem and router permanently, you can offer your car the most reliable method to get Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, it's also the most expensive and the least portable choice for getting Wi-Fi in your old car compared to the other approaches.

You can easily install and uninstall this device. It also offers a stronger and better network than the dongle and mobile. You can also use Ethernet ports and USB sockets that this device offers.

The biggest perk of installing it is that you can connect all your devices, including laptops, smartphones, tablets, and MP3 players, to its network. If you want to go down this route, then you have the option to reuse any old router (if you have one) as well.

5. Car Wi-Fi Plans from Various Brands

You can also get special bundles and devices for your car Wi-Fi. Many car security and network service providers offer these specialized plans for your vehicle.

T-Mobile SyncUP DRIVE

While making your car a smarter one, this device will also transform your car into a Wi-Fi hotspot with 3G, 4G, and 4G LTE support. It supports connection to up to five Wi-Fi-supported devices. At the time of writing, the new connection cost is $96, excluding the data plan.

This service is available to various car brands, so you should check for compatibility before opting for it.

Toyota Wi-Fi Connect

This particular service is only available to Toyota car users. Whether you're an AT&T wireless customer or not, you can enjoy this service at the starting cost of $25. It supports up to five Wi-Fi-connected devices in a car.

Besides vehicle safety services, OnStar also lets your car stay connected to the internet with Wi-Fi technology. It supports General Motors, Buick, Chevrolet, and Cadillac.

It offers connectivity services ranging from $24.99 to $49.99. You can also subscribe to its multiple standalone plans to create your combination.

Connect to Wi-Fi for Free

Each of the above methods brings Wi-Fi to your old car. However, all these will cost some money one way or another. If you want to use Wi-Fi in the car for free, you should pull up the vehicle to an area that provides a free public hotspot.

Some common public Wi-Fi areas are schools, public libraries, government offices, and restaurants. You might experience great download or upload speeds using such Wi-Fi, but remember that you're getting it for free. Besides, you can get free Wi-Fi from your home internet provider using its public hotspot.

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Can I rent a pocket wifi unit for use in Russia? - Moscow Forum

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Hello, Travelers!

Is it possible to rent pocket wifi units for use in Russia?

I have changed to T-Mobile pre-paid with BYOP...I got one with dual SIM slots, and have both my "standard" US SIM and permanent Russian one on the same phone, just what I need. Note that there are some other providers that allow the same flexibility. I had Virgin Mobile for several years, but while they are "cool" if you are young, if you are - ahem - "mature" as I am, and interested in basic, brass tacks stuff, they are a disaster. One of the drawbacks I got when I first did this is I could never get an Android update, and slowly by surely, the phone turned into a brick as many apps simply stopped working. As I am not the most savvy here, I ended up being passed around by every party over this issue ("call your provider, call the manufacturer, call Android,") to the point where I ditched phone and Virgin.

Unfortunately This is what a lot of the android phones vendors do. They cook up theirs own version of android os and never updated it.

Hi, Alexander M,

For 7 days of service with the "pocket internet" program the cost is over $50 US and you must return the unit.

Last May My Wife and I got SIM Cards for our phones and purchased the pocket wifi from MTC with 30 days of service for about $45-50. We now own the pocket wifi unit (which isn't doing us any good outside Russia without paying $50 or so to unlock it). (NOTE: "C" in Russian is "S" in English, so you may see this on the english version of the websites: MTS).

So, unless you plan to be in Russia for less than 4 days and don't want your phone to stand-alone, just go to MTC for a better deal. If you take about 5 steps and fall down you will be in front of an MTC store--they are all over the place!

I did find the rental program in Taiwan and Japan to be quite competitive for the WIFI units--about $30 including delivery to our B&B and return postage.

Some countries are beginning to be a problem--because terrorists use cell phones to set off bombs a lot of countries will not let you get SIM cards without a lot of hassle...or not at all. I believe India is among them.

The rental from third party sources is sometimes the workaround....or there is no workaround if you do not have an actual residence address (and all the visa stuff) in the country.

Thank you very much, Osama!

Travel-Junkie 3PO

Hi Travel-Junkie-3PO,

I heard about cases MTS charge suspicious costs.

Did they take your credit card slip?

Check account of your russian SIM card.

And I'm not sure you'll manage to unblock the router.

Please tell me if you managed.

We were very satisfied with MTS and found no suspicious charges. We had perfect success with the router while in Russia but it cannot be unblocked outside Russia without paying a fee (which we did not try so we don't know if it would be successful).

Hola, soy argentino y voy a viajar a Rusia para el mundial, podria hacerte algunas preguntas?

si es asi avisame.

It's ok--send you questions and I and other TripAdvisor members will be glad to reply!

hey travel-junkie ... these are great tips. However I'm a little confused at some of the technical details.

I too plan to visit Russia and have a Verizon phone.

It's my understanding that Verizon phones are unlocked now and actually have the proper GSM frequencies for calls and texts in Russia (albeit at some ripoff rates).

It sounds like you attempted to solve the 'Verizon' data problem by purchasing a "Pocket WiFi" device .... this device essentially used "mobile" internet data but acted as a WiFi hotspot for your phone.

Well my question is --- you need the Russian SIM for the PocketWiFi device .... and NOT your Verizon phone, right? WiFi is the same everywhere and doesn't require any special bands/ frequencies --- so why would your PHONE need the Russian SIM?

The SIM is for the device connecting directly to the LTE frequencies ... which in your case in the pocket WIFI. Many Verizon phones really lack the HARDWARE to connect to Russian LTE frequencies (well most of them) no matter what SIM you are using. I take it the MTS pocket-wifi is obviously compatible (it's local), and is the "link" between Russian LTE and Verizon phones. Is that correct? Or did you just get the SIM for the phone for the cheaper text/ call/ and possibly 3g data connectivity?

Wouldn't the PocketWifi have the SIM though as it's the one really "using" the data? Trying to understand here.

It is either cumbersome, expensive or not possible to use our Verizon phones as hotspots.

I need a hotspot when I travel because of my business--I get a lot of e-mail and I reply with attachments stored on my netbook. Detailed replies don't work so well from my smart phone so I use my netbook.

We got SIM cards for the phones because we are awful museum junkies (we spent 5 hours, then 7 1/2 hours in the Hermitage) and we can contact each other if we get split up. Heck--for $45 including the mobile wifi, why not?

If you are going to St Petersburg, Chris, you'll probably also visit Catherine's Palace. We stayed at the Palace for about $80/nite and went on to Pavlosk, which I heartily recommend. The ladies at the front desk at the palace hotel hooked us up with a taxi that cost about $4 US to go to Pavlosk and gave us a phone number for another cab that returned us to central St Petersburg for a little over $20. When you finish with Pavlosk, ask the ladies in the gift shop to call the cab (after telling them how beautiful they are...and they tell you that you must be a friend of The Travel Junkie!!)

Catherine's is very cold and formal. Pavlosk is a lot more "real" as it is a home and not a palace for ceremonies. We actually liked it more than Catherine's...except for the Amber Room, of course!! there are a few excellent restaurants near Catherine's--after all the Bus People shove off, tour the gardens, then go have dinner...next morning take off for Pavlosk.

Visit the Faberge Museum from 6 to 9 pm, when you don't have to take the guided tour. You'll need all three hours! If you like Jazz, go to the Jazz Philharmonia...you won't be able to buy tix online but if you send a nice e-mail to them, Olga will hold tix at the front desk for you--$20 each to enjoy great jazz in a great little concert hall.

Happy travels!

I've read most of this thread and I'm still unsure of what would be the best solution for me : I'm about to spend five weeks in Russia, I will have to remain able to use data as I'll be traveling by train/bus/boat through a dozen of cities, international roaming can't be an option considering the price and I can't remove my Sim card from my phone as my French number has to remain reachable... To rent a device seems to be overpricey, but what would be the best solution then ? To buy a portable hotspot locally and to buy a separate subscription-free SIM ? Can I do that easily in Sochi, where my travel will start ?

Thanks a lot if you can help.

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Can I rent a pocket wifi unit for use in Russia? - Moscow Forum

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Can I rent a pocket wifi unit for use in Russia?

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Hello, Travelers!

Is it possible to rent pocket wifi units for use in Russia?

Not often, as in Russia is cheaper to buy a local SIM card (5 USD per month for unlimited intrenet - Yota http://www.yota.ru/tablet/#/tariff/tablet/1mbits). I often use my old smartphone as a hotspot.

You can buy a mifi for around 20 dollars but why not use your phone instead.

Thank you, Dmitriy and Vladchan!

We have smartphones but they are not unlocked, so we can't plug SIM cards into them. In Taiwan we rented a mobile wifi for $30 for a month, in Italy, it was $62--that's cheaper than getting a new phone and SIM card.

I might have to figure out how to make a smartphone into a hotspot--I'll pass that off to my wife: She's the Techie!

Vladchan, can you tell me where/how to buy a mifi?

Thanks a lot, gentlemen!

Go into a cell phone shop - Evroset, Svyaznoi, or cell co shops - Megafon, Beeline or MTS, and buy a mifi and a sim card with data.

A cell co branded mifi will likely be cheaper because it's locked but this is OK.

US T-mob offers free useable data abroad which is even better! Can't beat free...

Thanks a lot, Vladchan!

I'll check out the tips you've given me.

There are 3 main cell phone operators here Megafon, MTS, Beeline. I beleive any of them can sell you mobile wifi + sim card.

Here are an example of Megafon offer:

http://spb.shop.megafon.ru/modems/83780.html#description

RUB 2500,00

according to current USD/RUB exchange rate it will cost about USD 30,00

+ SIM card with prepaid tariff about USD 5,00...7,00

2 SanchesS80

This router requires an additional 3G modem.

2 travel-junkie3PO

I would recommend a mobile 3G Wi-Fi router from MTS. Modem and 30 GB of bandwidth for $ 23.

Do you understand why no one will take rent a router for $ 30 a month? :)

http://www.mts.ru/mobil_inet_and_tv/komplektu_sim_karta/connect/

http://www.shop.mts.ru/modemy-i-routery/3g-modem/komplekt-mts-konnekt-3g-wi-fi-router-21-6.html

>>> 2 SanchesS80: This router requires an additional 3G modem.

anyway it won't be a problem to find the necessary equipment. My vote for MTS

Thanks for the information, Sanches!

Thanks for your help, Dimitry!

I'll be looking forward to replying to all my business e-mails while I'm touring Russia (my clients will never suspect that I'm not lying on the couch watching TV at home!).

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From Wi-Fi to more storage, try these cheap ways to make your old tech devices better

Are you reading this on a two-year-old iPhone SE 3? Go ahead and make those over-the-hill jokes – it's almost hitting the average smartphone lifespan of 2.5 years.

Get smart, actionable tech news and tips like this daily in your inbox. Join 500K folks and get the Current. It’s free!

Upgrading your laptop or smartphone is inevitable. But wait before you throw out that clunky computer. Even when a piece of tech starts showing its age, you can still give it a new lease on life.

Make room for vacation photos

Most modern phones don't have memory card slots. Instead, expand your cloud storage to offload photos, videos, and other files to free up space. (Saving to the cloud means you get secure backups too.) You should use the option built to work with your phone.

◾ For my Android-using friends, Google One upgrades start at $2 for 100GB of space.

◾ If you're on an iPhone, iCloud+ pricing starts at $1 for 50GB.

Pro tip: If you and the fam all use iPhones, share an iCloud+ account to save some money.

Playing the oldies

Old speakers , that is. Want to get Spotify or Apple Music streaming around your home? You don't have to invest in a complete Sonos set of pricey wireless speakers if you’re still rocking the older wired kind.

Add a Bluetooth adapter (like an Esinkin model ), and those old speakers can play the classics – or the latest hits – beamed right from your phone or computer.

One Amazon reviewer said, "This thing was plug-and-play on a 56-year-old family console. It's the best of both worlds: Modern tech with classic design and sound. Now I can listen to vinyl, AM/FM stereo, or my own playlist in style.”

Wi-Fi from anywhere

Tired of walking around with your laptop to find the best Wi-Fi signal? Blast Wi-Fi dead zones with a Wi-Fi extender.

Boost your router’s wireless signal with options like the TP-Link RE305 . It's certainly cheaper than buying a whole new router or mesh system, and if you're having connectivity issues, it's a good place to start.

Increase your TV’s IQ

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Work your workstation

Your laptop might not be speedy, but upgrading your workstation has real benefits. A few upgrades (that are a lot cheaper than a new computer)

◾ A comfortable keyboard can speed up your typing.

◾ A larger monitor is easier on your eyes and gives you more screen space.

◾ An ergonomic laptop stand eases serious strains on your neck.

PC performance booster

Feeling ambitious? Upgrade your computer by upgrading your RAM. Tons of guides online can help you with this one – just don’t blame me if you take on a techy project you’re not ready for.

Computers that freeze up and are generally slow-moving can benefit from this upgrade, but you’ll need to open them up.

◾ Inside your computer, you’ll find slots for RAM sticks, the memory that gives your computer room to think.

◾ Swap out the current RAM sticks for new ones that are faster and offer more capacity for a significant PC performance boost.

Play on, player

This one’s for the gamers. You can buy extra storage for both PlayStation and Xbox consoles that plugs in and gives you more room for your games.

The PS5 has an internal storage slot you can fit an M.2 SSD card into, too – something like the WD Black SN850 . You’ll need a screwdriver, a few minutes and Sony’s instructions .

On an Xbox Series X or S, it’s even easier. The expansion slot is on the outside. Buy a compatible card like this Seagate one , and follow Microsoft’s instructions .

Learn about all the latest technology on the  Kim Komando Show , the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim takes calls and dispenses advice on today's digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. For her daily tips, free newsletters and more, visit her website. 

How to get free WiFi in Moscow

Moscow is the largest city of Russia and holds a prominent place in the country as the main economic, cultural, political andresearch centre.

There couldn’t be a better spot to spend your vacations than the artful city of Moscow; the reasons being many but the major one for being among one of the cities where free WiFi connections are blessed. The city being vastly connected to the World through various international airports and railways has an amazingly extensive internet connection around the city for the tourists who might want an access to the media zone as well as to their social network, but would appreciate to cut back on those awful internet charges, while delighting in the beauties of this city like Moscow Kremlin orIntourist Hotel Volgograd.

Moscow had been ranked as one an alpha global city streaming with countless tourists all-round the year, hencefinding free WiFi is not as difficult as it might sound. The capital of Russia has been conveniently blessed with 1178 free WiFi hotspots including various restaurants, coffeehouses, pubs, hotels; and quite surprisingly yet delightfully enough, these free WiFi connections are in access to public transportation, parklands, Moscow metro buses and many such open places where tourists and locals alike, pass through frequently and would want to enjoy their meals or coffees while posting check ins and photos for their Facebook circle!

The main internet service provider within the entire city is Beeline, Megafon and MTS. If curious about the connection’s security with respect to your personal details, for that is quite natural, have a look at the related websites and find out the best tariffs.

However, in the historical Moscow city, free wireless connections is operative only through the Beeline which is readily spread in many areas of the city. The only effort you need to put in is connect to the internet by the name of “Beeline WiFi” or “Beeline WiFi WPA “and experiment around a bit like putting up your laptop on the window-sill for a few minutes, orswinging around the mobile phone in blank airuntil you start getting a stable reception; and you’re all good to go. Beeline WiFi is the only service provider if you are travelling a bus or a trolleybus, which is quite common in Russia. Moreover, 300 routers providing free internet access have been allocated on public transportation. Another free WiFi arrangement could be leisurely enjoyed while moving in and out of the city through Moscow’s underground Metro system.As of now, MTS has taken the initiative to equip four out of fourteen  Moscow metro stations in the city, erasing off all that weariness of a subway, and what’s more; the data transfer is estimated to be more than 100Mb/s per train!

Fortunately, there are various places in Moscow covered soundly with commercial WiFi network, where you could freely relax, sipping on those savory Mors with your laptop connecting you to the social webs or checking up on your mails and letting you keep track of this fast-paced modern world that would definitely help in easily recording and creating a memorable travelogue.

• Contributed to TheBackpackers by ‘StagHorn’; contact him here .