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How to Get High-Speed Wi-Fi When Traveling

Looking for reliable, fast wi-fi when traveling?

If you’re having trouble getting affordable, reliable internet on the road, we feel your pain. In almost 20 years of traveling together, we’ve suffered through weak wi-fi signals at hotels, cafes, and in more restaurants than we can count. Sure, sometimes we luck out and get reliable internet, but that’s not always the case.

At this point, we’ve used almost every kind of internet connection available when we travel, whether overseas or domestically.

The Best Options for Wi-Fi When Traveling

In this post, we’ll guide you through your options for getting reliable, fast wi-fi when traveling, and the pros and cons of each type.

Whether you’re looking for temporary internet for a vacation home, internet for a laptop or phone while you travel, or even internet while traveling in an RV on a road trip, here are some of your best options.

Beg, Borrow, or Steal Free Wi-Fi

When we first started traveling together, we spent a lot of time and hassle trying to find free internet for travelers. Over the years, I swear we’ve used the free wi-fi at every hotel chain and fast food chain around.

Sometimes the wi-fi is fast and reliable, but most of the time it’s spotty and unreliable. We’ve had more than our share of times where the internet was completely down, or where we couldn’t get the wi-fi signal in our room.

Pros : It’s free. Most hotel, restaurant, and public place wi-fi is free (though there are exceptions). It’s also easy to access.

Cons : Security is a major issue here, as it’s relatively easy to intercept your data. A password manager and a VPN can help with security, but you’re always taking your chances with free wi-fi. If you use a VPN, be sure to pick one that has a no logs policy, like the reputable Private Internet Access (PIA) VPN .

Use Roaming from Your Mobile Provider

Likely the easiest way to get wi-fi on the road is to simply use roaming data from your existing cell phone provider.

The danger of this is that you’ll get slammed with outrageously expensive roaming fees when you get home. To avoid the price shock, contact your cell provider and see if they offer a more affordable roaming plan.

Pro : Easy, instant and generally reliable and secure.

Con : May be prohibitively expensive. To share your cell’s data with a computer or other mobile, you’ll need share your connection via wi-fi, USB, or Bluetooth. This is called tethering, and can result in slowing down the data connection, and may drain your phone’s battery quickly.

Get a Mobile Hotspot

In the last five years, we’ve become huge fans of mobile hotspots for internet access.

A mobile hotspot is a small device (usually the size of a deck of cards) that gets you internet access wherever you go, whether that’s on a road trip near home, or in a country half way around the world.

You’ll pay a fee to rent the portable wi-fi hotspot for travel (or you can buy it outright), and then pay for a data plan. Depending on where you are in the world, data plans can run from $8 a day internationally, or $49 for unlimited internet in the USA for up to a week.

Most hotspots let you connect up to 10 devices, so they’re great for groups or families, but they don’t offer SMS texts or voice phone calls (though you can always use an app like Fongo or Google Voice to call).

GlocalMe portable Wi-Fi hotspot review
Skyroam Solis portable Wi-Fi review
Keepgo MiFi device review .

Pros : Convenient, easy to use, reliable connection in most countries and fast speeds, some with unlimited data. Great for groups.

Cons : More expensive than free hotel Wi-Fi.

Buy a SIM Card at Your Destination

Buying a local SIM card at your destination can be a great way to save money, and save you from expensive roaming charges or scrounging free wi-fi.

Companies like Orange Travel can offer great savings, when compared to roaming or paying for a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Right now they have an Orange Holiday Europe 20GB deal on, which includes includes unlimited calls and texts in Europe.

However, depending on your destination country, tracking down a local SIM card can be tricky. Occasionally, you can find a kiosk selling SIMs in the airport, but we’ve often had to schlep around a new city to find a cell provider. You can usually get a local SIM at convenience stores, news stands, and vending machines.

The biggest negative with a SIM card is that if you’re traveling to multiple countries, a local SIM may not work in all of the countries you visit. It’s also harder to share your connection with other members of your family or group.

Some countries may also require that you’re a citizen, or need a local address, to get a local SIM card, so a local SIM isn’t an option everywhere.

You’ll also have to physically remove your mobile phone’s old SIM card, store it somewhere, and insert the new SIM card, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea.

Pros : Generally affordable, and speeds are usually good.

Cons : Finding a local SIM can be inconvenient, and it may not work in more than one country. You’ll also need an unlocked phone for this to work. To share your connection, you’ll need to create an internet tethering connection or a hotspot on your phone to share the internet connection to a laptop, tablet, or other phones.

Buy a Roaming SIM Card at Home

You can buy a local SIM card when you get to your destination, but that can be inconvenient, especially if you’re short on time.

Some companies simplify travel internet by letting you buy a SIM card at home for use as you travel. The SIM comes with a data plan, and also usually lets you make phone calls and get SMS messages while abroad. To use it, you’ll just need to remove your old SIM card, and insert the travel SIM once you arrive in your destination country.

Pros : Affordable (generally under $50).

Cons : Same as the previous one. To use internet on computers or other phones, you’ll need to create a mobile hotspot connection (called tethering). You’ll also need an unlocked phone.

Internet Cafe

We’re really showing our age here, but when we first started traveling together back in 2001, we relied almost exclusively on Internet cafes (also called cyber cafés) for how to get internet away from home.

Their rows of boxy monitors and beat up desktop computers used to mean an instant connection to the internet, for the cost of a small hourly fee. In 2001, internet cafes were used by almost all travelers as a place to get together, and get good internet. Today, cell phones and free wi-fi have all but obliterated the good old internet café.

While you’d be hard pressed to find an internet café in most tourist spots today, they do exist in much less developed areas. If you’re looking for one as you travel, also look out for gaming centers or gaming cafes since many have gone that route, however their gaming computers can still be used to browse the web, print things off and chat with loved ones back home.

BTW, the last time we used a dedicated internet café was in the Philippines back in 2008, and we used it to access a printer, not for the internet connection, though we have jumped into a few gaming centers over the years to cool down with their aircon and let the kids game for a while.

Pros: No computer or mobile phone needed, affordably hourly cost, generally high connection speeds.

Cons : Security issues with using a shared computer, often noisy environment and overall lack of privacy.

What’s your preferred method of internet access when you travel? Let us know in the comments.

Finding reliable wifi when traveling is always a concern. Free wifi always has security concerns. I like your idea about purchasing a local SIM card to avoid roaming charges.

Getting high speed Wi-Fi when travelling is such a blessing! Sometime the connection at your hotel is weak and I completely understand the security threat. Great to learn a few options on having Wi-Fi on the go. Thanks for this informative post.

We have been begging, borrowing and stealing while on the go when it comes to Wi-Fi connection. A local sim card is a great option to get affordable and uninterrupted connection I feel. Besides it is easy to contact the provider and promptly get things sorted in case of technical glitches. Wonderful post!

Informative Post. I think buying a sim card at the destination is always a good choice, however its best to do your own research since there are many vendors at airports looking to get your on their most expensive plan which is overpriced.

My favorite part of this article is a password manager and a VPN can assist with security, but with free wi-fi, you’re constantly taking chances. Someone recently told me about this and it is different from what I understand. Thanks for helping me understand internet service plans.

Loved your blog, thanks for the information, I find it really interesting.

My favorite hotspot is the local library. Most towns even small have one and they are free to hook up to their WiFi as a guest.

Internet Access when Traveling: How to Get Online On The Go

Last updated: November 4, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 26 Comments

If you are planning an international trip, you might be wondering the best way to access the internet when traveling. High-speed internet access on the go is definitely achievable, and doesn’t have to cost a fortune either.

I’m sure you’ve heard horror stories from people who’ve gone away on an international trip and then returned home to a huge bill thanks to their mobile phone roaming on data networks when they’re away.

The good news is, this doesn’t have to be you. There are lots of options for getting on the internet when you travel, ranging from entirely free through to more premium options.

In today’s post I want to help guide you through the options available to you when you travel for getting online.

This will include options for getting internet on your phone whilst you are away from home, as well as on any other devices you might have with you, including tablets and laptops. I’ll cover options that work for a variety of travel styles, including options for getting online in an RV.

My guide will focus purely on internet access while traveling, rather than texting or calling, although some of the solutions below will also work for texting and calling.

These are based on our personal experiences travelling through multiple countries each year, and are listed in order of our personal preference for how we get online when travelling. We’ve also included any discount codes that we’ve been able to find from suppliers for you guys.

The Best Options for Internet Access when Traveling

Below are all the options you have for getting online when traveling abroad. These cover a wide range of options and we think at least one of these options should work for you!

1. Use Your Mobile Provider

The first thing to do is check with your mobile phone company if they offer any form of roaming as part of your package for the countries you are visiting – often referred to as an international plan. This might be the easiest and cheapest way to get online when you travel.

Internet access while traveling internationally

In the US, T-Mobile users on a qualifying plan have access to 2G speeds in over 140 countries with no additional charges.

Whilst 2G isn’t super-fast, it’s certainly good enough for the essentials like e-mail, messaging, and getting directions.

Google’s Fi offering is also excellent, letting you use your data allowance pretty much everywhere you go if you are on the appropriate plan.

Some mobile providers, like Three in the UK, also either include roaming data, or allow you to purchase overseas roaming packages on a day-to-day basis. These let you get online on the days you really need to.

This can be cost effective if you only need to get online on a small number of days, but can add up over a prolonged period, in which case you might want to investigate the other options below.

Note that if you aren’t planning on using your provider’s mobile data when you go abroad, it’s really important to disable data roaming before you leave, to avoid running up hefty charges when you arrive in your destination country. Here’s a guide on how to do that for Android , and one for iOS (Apple).

Advantages of using your mobile provider: If your provider supports roaming at no or minimal cost in the destination you are visiting, this can be the easiest and most cost-effective way to get online with minimum cost and effort.

Disadvantages of using your mobile provider: Even if your provider supports it, speeds may not be as fast as you would get with the other solutions below, due to throttling by your provider.

2. Buy a SIM Card for your trip

Depending on the country you are travelling to, you might find the most cost-effective way to get online when you travel is to purchase a SIM card for your device for the country you are travelling to. This is generally what we do if possible, although some countries make it hard to buy local SIM cards due to local regulations.

You can either do this on arrival, or in some cases, you can buy the SIM card before you leave – such as this option for travellers from the USA to Europe. You can see more options here .

Once you have the SIM card in your phone, you can just use this for your data needs.

For this to work you need an unlocked handset – you can check with your carrier if your handset is unlocked, and they should be able to assist you with unlocking it if you are allowed to.

If your device is unlocked, then you will be able to put any SIM card that you like into it. This has the advantage that you’ll be able to get the maximum speeds available in that country as the provider will be local, and you’ll also generally be able to do things like tether other devices to your handset.

Tethering allows you to set up your phone as a WiFi hotspot, meaning you can connect your laptop to the internet through your device connection. See this guide for instructions on setting up a WiFi hotspot on Android , and this guide for how to do it on Apple iOS devices.

Depending on the country you’re visiting there will be different packages and providers available. We’re big fans of Three for visitors to the UK – their Pay as You Go SIMS are great value for visitors, and they can be picked up on arrival in many stores as well as airport kiosks.

If you are travelling from the USA, you can pick up a Three SIM card in advance of your trip here , which comes preloaded with data.

For full details on SIM cards for a wide range of countries across the globe, take a look at the Pre Paid Data SIM Card wiki site , which has all the advice you could ever need on the best SIM card options for the majority of countries in the world.

For short trips, or for trips where you are hopping across many countries, purchasing a SIM card everywhere you go might be more hassle than it is worth.

The exception is for travel in the EU – regulations introduced in June 2017 mean that providers can no longer charge for roaming in these countries, so a SIM card bought in one EU country should work across all other EU countries without additional charge.

Also be aware that some countries make it quite hard to purchase a SIM card, requiring you to have the equivalent of a social security number or other local government issued unique identifier in order to activate the service. In these countries, you’re probably better off investigating other options.

Advantages of buying a local SIM card : Buying a SIM card abroad will usually give you the fastest local speeds available at the most cost-effective price, and is a great option if you have an unlocked phone, and will be in the country for more than a day or two.

Disadvantages of buying a local SIM card : A local SIM card will take a bit of effort on your part to find, depending on the country you visit, and activation can sometimes be tricky. It also requires an unlocked handset to work. For short stays, or multiple country trips (excluding the EU), it’s probably not worth it. Also, when you take your home SIM card out, you won’t receive calls or texts to your home number.

3. Use a Mobile Hotspot

A mobile hotspot is a standalone device which connects to a cellular network for data, and creates a local WiFi hotspot that you can connect your devices to.

This lets you get all your devices online (handy if you have multiple people travelling together!), and means you don’t have to worry about unlocking your phone. Some even offer 5G speeds, meaning you’ll get super-fast speeds as well.

This is possibly the easiest way to get online when travelling. A mobile hotspot is also an option if you are trying to get online in an RV. Some mobile hotspots allow you to connect an external antenna to boost your signal, which you can mount on your RV for improved reception.

The downside to all this awesome is that for connecting a single device, a mobile hotspot will usually work out to be more expensive than the other options, and they don’t offer voice or text capabilities – just data. We would definitely advise checking with your carrier first to see if they offer data roaming packages for your phone, as these often work out cheaper if budget is a concern.

However, if data and ease of use is what you are after, and you have multiple devices that you want to connect (if you’re travelling as a couple or family for example), then these can be a cost effective and very easy to use option.

You have two main options for mobile hotspots. You can rent them for one-off trips, or you can buy one, and then pay as you go. We summarise these options below, and we also have a full guide to the best mobile hotspots for you to read if you are interested in one of these devices.

Option 1: Rent a mobile hotspot for travel

For rentals, prices vary depending on where you are travelling and how much data you want to use. In general you are looking at around $7 – $12 per day of travel for unlimited internet. Do check the terms and conditions on your rental though as many providers throttle speeds after a certain amount of usage each day (usually 1GB).

There are a number of providers we recommend you look at. Prices vary depending on the country or countries you are visiting, so we suggest taking a look at a few options before settling on one.

First, we recommend GlocalMe . They have a range of data plans supporting 4G speeds around the world, with prices starting from just over $5 a day.

Next up is TravelWiFi . They offer free delivery of their device to your home before you travel, as well as very competitive rates. For some countries you can pick up and drop off the device as well when you get to the destination, which can be convenient. These start at around $7 day for 4G.

We also have a discount code for TravelWifi, use discount code “findingtheuniverse” for a 5% discount on their prices. They also offer the option to purchase the device out right and then pay as you go for data.

Another option is mywebspot . They offer 4G data speeds in a number of countries around the world, with a daily fair usage policy of 1 GB in Europe and the USA, 2GB in Mexico, and unlimited 4G in SE Asia, Japan and China.

Prices for mywebspot are around $11 / day for fast 4G speeds, although this varies by destination, and they have a variety of ways you can get the device before your trip, many with free delivery.

Another option for visitors to Europe looking to rent a device is Hippocketwifi . They currently focus on Europe exclusively, and they have a number of competitive packages available, depending on how much data you need and for how long.

Speeds are at 4G, and prices start at around $7 a day if you rent for two weeks, with a 1GB data cap per day. They also offer more expensive unlimited plans. If you are just visiting France, they have a specific package at a very competitive price.

We have a discount code that will give you 5% off your Hippocketwifi rental – just enter coupon code “ TRAVELCATS5 ” at checkout in the coupon code section to claim.

Option 2: Buy a mobile hotspot for travel

If you think you are going to be taking a number of trips, or one longer trip, it will likely be more cost effective to buy a device that you can just add data to. This is also the case if you are planning on fitting a device with external antenna to an RV.

If you are looking to purchase a hotspot device for travel, prices for the device are generally in the region of $50 – $300. Prices vary, and some come with data.

First, we again recommend GlocalMe . They have a range of products, and we particularly like the GlocalMe DuoTurbo . This comes with a touchscreen and offers a range of reasonably priced data packages. You can also add your own SIM card if you prefer. This might be a better option for sporadic use where you want to pay as you go rather than by the day.

Another option to check out is My Webspot . They have a service where you can buy their device outright and get a pack of 20 1 day 4G passes (a value of around $220 at current prices). For regular users, this can be a good option. See that here .

There are also a number of other 4G wireless hotspots available, many of which you can add a local SIM to when you arrive in a destination.

We currently have and travel with this Netgear 4G capable wireless hotspot , which also works as a travel router and portable charger. Note that this doesn’t work with every SIM card in the world, so you will want to check with Netgear prior to travel to be sure.

Advantages of using a mobile hotspot: A mobile hotspot will let you connect multiple devices at high speeds, perfect for a family trip together.

Disadvantages of using a mobile hotspot: It’s another device to carry with you and keep charged. It’s also not the cheapest option. In addition, you obviously need to be in range of the hotspot for it to work, so if your group splits up this could cause issues!

4. Use a specialist roaming SIM

If your operator doesn’t offer good roaming prices and you don’t want the hassle of switching SIMs in and out of your phone as you travel, you might want to look into a solution that is designed for travellers – a travel SIM.

These can be a more expensive option than getting a local SIM card, depending on destination, but they can also be more convenient depending on your situation.

We have tried a few of these in our travels. We would recommend checking out Airalo , Alosim , Nomad , OneSim or Holafly . Which will be best for you will depend on your destination, duration of trip and how much data you require.

Generally, we have found Airalo offers some of the better deals although a lot will depend on where you are traveling and how much data you want.

Airalo (get $3 credit with code LAUREN8516 ) offers an eSIM solution. This is a virtual SIM card which is supported by many phones including recent Android and iPhone models. If your phone is compatible, an eSIM works in parallel with your existing SIM, so you can still receive texts or calls when abroad on your existing number.

Airalo has data packs for over 190 countries worldwide. You can pick up an eSIM for a single country, a region (i,e, Europe, Africa) or for global use. Just be aware the global SIM only covers around 90 countries, so you will want to check your destinations are on the list.

Airalo offers some of the better value SIM cards for travel, even compared to buying a local SIM, so this would be our first port of call if you have a supported phone model. An eSim also has the advantage that your current phone number will continue to work. This is helpful if you receive codes for things like online banking as it will save you swapping out SIM cards. See our full review of Airalo to see if it might be right for you.

Alternative eSIM providers to check out include Nomad (good for heavy data users) and Alosim .

Free credit for eSIMs

if you want to try out one of my recommended eSIM providers you can get free credit with the following codes:

You can get $3 in free credit with Airalo if you use code LAUREN8516 when you sign up .
You can get $3 in free credit with Nomad if you use code LAUR82DF when you sign up .
You can get $3 in free credit with Alosim on your first data purchase (note purchase not sign up) with code: 5INUXOH

The OneSim prepaid international SIM card includes two phone numbers, as well as free incoming calls to an EU number in 162 countries. Mobile data is available from 1c/ MB, with bundles available offering up to 10GB of data.

They offer a universal sim card which can be used in over 200 countries, as well as an option that focuses on providing better value in Europe.

Like Airalo, Holafly offers an eSIM product. Holafly offers a range of data packages for destinations around the world. Their eSims can also be delivered instantly via e-mail, so you don’t have to wait for delivery if this is a last-minute purchase. Their pricing is reasonable for larger amounts of data.

Price Comparison

As a quick price comparison, here are some data packages. Prices are correct as of May 2022.

UK, 10GB, 30 days. Airalo: $22.50. Holafly: $49. OneSIM: $200
Europe, 10GB, 30 days. Airalo: $37. Holafly: $49. OneSIM: $200.
USA, 10GB, 30 days. Airalo: $26. Holafly: $67 (20GB). OneSIM: $200

Of course, you will want to plug in your own information in terms of destination, duration and data required, but this should give you a rough idea of cost.

In my research Airalo most often comes up with the best value plan but this can vary. It’s also one of the few travel focused SIMs that is competitive even against buying a local SIM in some scenarios. You can also get a $3 credit with code LAUREN8516 when signing up for further savings.

Advantages of using a specialist SIM: A specialist travel SIM is usually a really simple option that will let you get online quickly and easily at high speeds, without having to worry about roaming fees. It’s perfect for travelling across multiple countries, and will just work as soon as you arrive in the country. If you’re looking for the easiest option, this is likely it.

Disadvantages of using a specialist SIM: A specialist SIM can be one of the more expensive options for getting online, and requires an unlocked mobile. In the case of an eSIM, you will need a handset which supports eSIM technology.

5. Consider Satellite Internet

This option is primarily for those of you who are looking for options for getting online when traveling in an RV, boat or other type of transport which offers space for larger devices.

In this situation, you have a bit more choice. This is because you have access to more physical space as well as a power source. Your average traveler is unlikely to want to travel with a satellite dish in their luggage, but an RV or boat owner can easily afford the space for such a setup.

Whilst many RV owners use a mobile hotspot device, these are not without their downsides. The main downside is that they require cellular coverage to work, and many remote locations just don’t have cellular service. Whilst you can boost the signal with an external antenna, if there’s no signal to boost this won’t help!

This is also the case with boat owners, as the open sea tends to be without cell towers!

The other issue relating to cellular coverage is that in very popular locations the cell networks can overload. You will notice this if you ever attend a large event with tens of thousands of people – the internet will slow to a crawl or stop working altogether. As many people attend large events in their RVs, this problem also affects their mobile hotspots which use the cell network to send and receive data.

The solution to all this is a satellite internet connection. This consists of a satellite receiver that you normally mount on or near your RV, which points to a satellite in the sky. This provides the internet.

This gets around the issue of not having a signal, because satellites can cover a vast area. As long as you have a clear view of the sky, you should be able to get connected in most locations (although you’ll want to check coverage of your provider of course).

Currently, satellite usage is also not very common, so there is a low chance of the signal being overloaded.

The downside to satellite internet is that it tends to be one of the more expensive options. Some options can be slower as well. However, costs are coming down and speeds are going up, and more companies are rolling out satellite options. The availability of satellite providers will vary depending on your country. In the US for example, consider Starlink , HughesNet , Viasat and DISH .

Starlink is the standout option as it uses satellites which are closer to earth and thus is able to offer faster speeds and more data. It’s also relatively cost-effective compared to the other satellite options. They also have an RV specific satellite service which offers pay as you go monthly billing, and the ability to pause and resume the service when you want.

Just be aware that Starlink has proven very popular so depending on the service you choose and your location you might have to join a waiting list. The good news is that other companies, including Amazon, are due to launch competing services in the coming years.

6. Just use WiFi for Internet Access

If all the above sounds like a lot of work, and you don’t think you really need to be online every minute of the day, then our suggestion would be just to use free WiFi networks as you go.

In many countries around the world you can find free WiFi all over the place. In the UK for example, most restaurants, bars, museums and many public spaces as well as public transport operators offer easy, hassle free connections.

The same can be said for the US and much of Europe. Reliable locations to find WiFi include McDonalds, Starbucks, and many others. Your hotel or lodging will nearly always include free WiFi as well – thankfully we’re almost past the days when hotels feel they can charge for WiFi access.

You might also want to consider investing in a wireless range extender, also known as a travel router. This is a small device that can boost a weak wireless signal, allowing you to connect your devices from further away to something like a hotel or coffee shop that you might not have been able to previously connect to.

We’ve done a round up of the best travel routers to give you an idea of what these devices do and how they work. Our current suggestion is the this TP-Link Travel Router , which is well reviewed and very cost effective.

A travel router can also be used at home, but if you are trying to improve your home WiFi, check out our guide to the best home WiFi routers as well.

Advantages of using WiFi: This definitely one of the easiest option for internet access when traveling, because all you have to do is disable your phones data roaming and then just find WiFi as you go. It’s also the cheapest option, and WiFi is usually faster than mobile data in many cases. If you don’t urgently need the internet at every waking moment, this is a great option.

Disdvantages of using WiFi: WiFi is not yet ubiquitous, so you won’t be online all the time. There are also some security risks to using unsecured wireless networks, so you are likely still going to have to pay for a VPN.

Summary of Best Options for Getting Online When Traveling

Here’s a quick summary of your main options for getting online when traveling:

If your carrier supports data roaming, check out what packages are available and the prices in the country you are traveling to.
If your phone is unlocked or supports eSIM technology, look at either purchasing a local SIM card or using a travel SIM service. In our experience, Airalo offers good value in the eSIM space.
If you have multiple devices you want to connect, think about using a mobile hotspot . You can rent or buy these.
If you are trying to get online in an RV, consider a satellite internet service like Starlink
If you are not bothered about being always connected, save money by connecting to free WiFi hotspots when you travel

Don’t Forget the VPN!

However you choose to connect to the internet when travelling, we highly recommend you use a VPN to keep your data secure. This is especially the case when connecting to public WiFi networks, but it’s a good habit to get into regardless of how you connect to the internet.

You definitely don’t want your browsing data to be exploited as you browse, and a VPN will protect you from hackers looking to sniff out your sensitive data, from passwords to banking information.

We have a detailed guide to why you need a VPN and the best travel VPNs here . However, in brief, here are some VPN services we recommend you check out to keep your data safe when travelling.

Private Internet Access – PIA offers one of the most competitively priced VPN services on the market, and have all the features you need from a VPN – lots of servers to choose from, support for streaming platforms, and support for all the main devices and operating systems on the market, from smartphones to laptops and tablets. Check them out here .
NordVPN is o ne of the most highly reviewed and respected VPN services in the world . They offer competitive pricing, especially on their multi-year plans, and by connecting through their VPN software on your devices you’ll know your sensitive data is safe from prying eyes. We also have a NordVPN discount code . If you enter “travelcats” at checkout you can save 65% on the 2 year plan.

We definitely recommend investing in a VPN, either one of the above, or one you find yourself, to protect your data when travelling and browsing the web.

Everything you need to know about getting connected to the internet and online when you're traveling the world, with options including travel SIM cards, roaming with your home provider and mobile hotspots, including the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

There are 26 comments on this post

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PATRICIA ANN GARLAND says

6th March 2023 at 1:00 am

Thanks so much for this info. I am technologically illiterate but I think I have a clearer picture of what I need for my trip to the UK. You provide such valuable info for someone like me.

Laurence Norah says

6th March 2023 at 3:54 pm

Thanks very much Patricia! If you have any questions about your trip, feel free to ask. Have a great time!

Gotheglobals says

31st October 2022 at 12:03 pm

Thank you for your outstanding article.

31st October 2022 at 2:37 pm

It’s my pleasure, I’m glad you found it helpful! Safe travels 🙂

Amy Saunders says

12th April 2022 at 1:58 am

Phew! You certainly managed to make me calm down the moment you specified that a mobile hotspot can be shared by numerous devices simultaneously, making it highly convenient. My son and his friends are going on a trip to Montana next weekend but they just received a last minute assignment which needs to be submitted online the day after the trip. I’ll make sure they’re aware about this option so they can select the right plan pretty soon.

12th April 2022 at 10:05 am

Thanks Amy, happy I was able to help, I hope your son has a great trip!

Chance Cook says

15th October 2021 at 4:18 pm

I’ll try and use my mobile provider for my trip. That way I don’t have to buy anything else. Well, unless they ask for me to pay more for out of Country service.

15th October 2021 at 4:24 pm

That is often the best option if they provide this as a service and it’s reasonably priced.

Bridgette says

8th September 2020 at 7:28 pm

Sorry, but other questions came to mind as I’m researching this topic. If I’m abroad, Europe or Asia and get a SIM card for that country for my unlocked phone for a month, would my personal data be protected if I’m not using WIFI? And if yes, then I would not need the use of a VPN? Also if I chose to get a SIM card for one family member in the group, then my husband or son can tether off me using my Mobile Hotspot? And would a VPN still be required for them?

9th September 2020 at 12:00 pm

Hi Bridgette,

No problem at all. So if you have an unlocked phone, then getting a local SIM will nearly always be the most cost effective way to get online. And yes, if you use that instead of WiFi your data will be much more secure because phone networks are much more secure than public WiFi. So a VPN is less necessary. In addition, if you get a SIM card you can then tether your other devices as you say, and as this is a secure local network that only your devices are accessing, again, a VPN isn’t really necessary either 🙂 You just need to be sure that the SIM card allows for tethering (most do, but worth checking).

Let me know if I can answer any more questions!

25th October 2020 at 2:14 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica ,

This article is great and very informative. Specially for those who are traviling a lot. Any tips on how to make sure that when you are overseas you are using the free wifi and not your own data? There are some instances when the signal is weak my phone is auto switching to my data.

25th October 2020 at 2:47 pm

Thanks very much! So there are a few ways you can do this, depending on your phone.

On Android devices you can: – disable data roaming, so it won’t use data when the phone is not on your home network – enable airplane mode, which disables all the radios, and then just enable wifi – disable mobile data but leave wifi on

On iPhone you can do the same sort of thing. You can disable data roaming. You can also disable wi-fi assist, which will switch from WiFi to data if there’s a weak wifi signal.

Let me know if you need more detailed instructions – I’d need to know your device type to help further though 🙂

Taylor says

6th December 2019 at 5:58 pm

Thanks so much for this post. Sorry, but I’ve got a few techno-dunce questions for you. 1) if I got a “specialist SIM” would I need to worry about getting a VPN or would I be protected?

2) if I got a “specialist SIM,” would that mean I could get on the internet on my phone wherever I might be, in Europe?

3) With this specialist SIM, about how much does 1G give you? I don’t even know what “1G” means! So, for example, if I watched a YouTube video, would I burn through my daily allowance? Or checked email? Or streamed a movie?

Apologies for my lack of savvy and thanks in advance for any answers you’re willing to provide. I’m basically looking for something that will let me send occasional texts w/photos attached, back to the States, and to get on the internet during downtimes (like long bus rides). Thanks again.

7th December 2019 at 8:37 am

My pleasure 🙂 Let me try to help!

1 – While you are using the data on your phone through your SIM, you would be protected from most of the issues. However, if you switched to WiFi, which you might want to do to preserve your data allowance for something like streaming a movie, then you would likely want a VPN. Paying for a VPN and using free WiFi usually works out cheaper than buying data on a specialist SIM in the long run.

2 – Generally yes. In Europe especially, there are no roaming charges between EU countries. So as long as the provider you go for has service in the country you are in, and you have mobile reception, you should be good to go. However, if you are travelling to Europe I’d probably recommend buying a Pay as you go SIM instead of a specialist SIM. This will be a lot cheaper and give you much more data in most cases. If you are in the US and you have an unlocked phone, you can get one like this . If you are arriving in the UK, you can buy these from kiosks at most airports too.

3 – this is hard to quantify precisely, however streaming video is definitely the most data intensive task you can do. E-mail and web browsing will generally not use up much data, but as soon as you start watching video or backing up your photos (many phones do this automatically and it needs to be disabled) you can burn through your data quite quickly. In terms of data use specifically, a 1 hour Youtube video at 720p quality would use up around 0.9GB in one hour. A higher quality video, say 1080p, will use up 1.7G in an hour approximately.

I hope this helps!

8th December 2019 at 11:13 am

Thanks so much. Very helpful information!

8th December 2019 at 11:23 am

My pleasure – let me know if you have any more questions!

29th July 2019 at 6:42 am

I bought a knowroaming global SIM which worked fine in an iPhone (not tried in an android phone), but sadly does not work in the TPlink mobile 4G router I bought (currently visiting Canada).

Do you have any experience of using knowroaming SIMs on anything other than iPhone or Android?

29th July 2019 at 7:38 pm

Hey Matt – unfortunately I don’t, I’ve only ever used them in a phone rather than a data device. I’m not sure why they wouldn’t work, unless there is some odd band incompatibility – the best option would probably be to reach out directly to Knowroaming to see if they can help 🙂

24th May 2019 at 5:04 am

Hi, i have read several of your articles and the are great. Since we are going to spend 3 days in London and 9 more days in France, Italy and Amsterdam, which SIM would you recommend ? We think 1gb daily will be enough in our unlocked phones. Any advice will be appreciated!

24th May 2019 at 11:21 am

Thanks very much!

My suggestion for a SIM card would be Three. You can get 12GB of data for £20, which will also cover you in all the countries you are going to be visiting 🙂 You can get the Three SIM cards at many airports, as well as in Three stores across the UK.

Let me know if you have any questions!

8th May 2019 at 7:33 am

Thank you for this wonderful expose on traveling to access internet. It is very helpful.

8th May 2019 at 9:15 am

Our pleasure Jon, thanks for your kind comment 🙂

1st March 2019 at 10:03 am

Thank you guys for the tips, it was very useful. I am not a very technical person, so I am always struggling whit internet connection and similar stuff. My friend also recommended to get a NordVPN provider, so I am glad that you mentioned this app as well. It offers double encryption and works with Netflix, so for me it is more than enough.

1st March 2019 at 4:03 pm

Pleased we could help Jana!

Diana Maria says

9th August 2017 at 1:30 pm

A SIM card is always needed especially when I’m far like Europe! I try to use wifi and my phone when I feel the need to blog while traveling, but I love taking some time to disconnect and leave my phone at home while I explore. Lovely photos and tips! xx

Sending light & love your way.

Laurence says

9th August 2017 at 7:21 pm

I agree 🙂 Thanks for your comment!

The 8 Best WiFi Hotspots for International Travelers 2020

by Paul @ Travel is Life | Feb 25, 2020 | Nomad Life , Tech , Travel Buyer Guides | 62 comments

Hey traveler, while you’re here join my friends list to get all the perks I offer at Travel is Life.

Are you looking for the best unlocked mobile Wifi hotspot for your next international trip? I've got you covered in this international Wifi hotspot guide! For the past three years, our Best WiFi Hotspots for International Travelers guide has been the #1 wifi hotspot resource online connecting travelers with Internet data all over the globe.

Introduction to International Wifi Hotspot Devices 2020

During your adventures around the world, you may have seen other travelers with WiFi hotspots seamlessly accessing the Internet while you struggled with connecting to free public WiFi signals. If you felt a bit envious of their newage digital connectivity, your tech envy days are over, because I've put together a list of the Best International 4G WiFi Hotspots & SIM Cards for Travelers and compared their pricing, coverage, and features, to help you determine the best service for your needs. I've also reached out to each company to negotiate a discount on your behalf so that you can spend your hard earned travel budget on fun activities instead of Internet data.

Table of Contents

How do WiFi hotspots work?

#1) Skyroam Review 2020

#2) TEP Wireless Review 2020
#3) Keepgo Review 2020

#4) Travel WiFi Review 2020

#5) roaming man review 2020.

#6) Google Fi Review 2020

#7) Always Online Wireless Review 2020

#8) coming soon.

What's the best Wifi hotspot 2020?
What's the cheapest Wifi hotspot 2020?

How International 4G Hotspots & SIM Cards Work

The way these international hotspot companies operate is that they've licensed deals with 4G wireless carriers around the world to allow you to transition from one carrier's network to another without having to switch SIM cards and purchase a new local cell phone plan in each country you visit. With some services, you pay a flat fee for wireless access in every area they service, and other services have separate rates for each country. In some cases, you may end up paying more than you would if you bought a local SIM card, but you're paying for the convenience of having a seamless transition between carriers and service wherever you go, as well as Internet access as soon as you step off the plane.

If you're taking a short trip or you're heavily dependent on Internet to run your business like I am, then you may be willing to pay for the convenience. You might also choose to carry one of these hotspots with you as you travel and only activate it for 24 hour periods at a time when you need it, and then switch to a cheaper local plan after you get acquainted in the new country.

Best 4G International WiFi Hotspots for Travelers & Digital Nomads

I've researched your best available options for 4G WiFi Hotspots and World SIM Cards and narrowed them down to these top picks, which I'll compare below. I've also attempted to negotiate a discount for you with each carrier because I love when I can save my readers money on travel technology.

UPDATE Aug 2019: Introducing Skyroam's new Skyroam Solis X . More info about the device in my updated Skyroam review below.

Skyroam 4G Wireless Internet for Travelers

Their new Solis X device ($179.99) doubles as a 4200mAh power bank that can recharge your wireless devices via USB-C and power them with Internet at the same time. The Solis X can last more than 16 hours on a single charge (if not used as a power bank) and connect up to 10 devices at once. The device size is 3.5″ x 0.9″. It includes an 8MP remote operated camera and 4GB of storage, which you can upgrade by connecting to your Dropbox account. The new Solis X also includes an App with Skyroam's new Smart Assistant builtin. The Smart Assistant is basically a connection to IFTTT (If This Then That) service, which then allows you to make connections to other services you use like Twitter, Dropbox, Evernote, Nest, Fitbit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, etc.

They also offer a Solis X Lite device ($119.99) which is the same size, can also connect up to 10 devices, but doesn't offer the camera, speakerphone, or Smart Assistant feature like the Solis X. The power bank is also optional with the Solis X Lite.

These two devices replaced their old Solis device, which you can still use for service if you already have one, but can no longer purchase the device new.

COST: How much does Skyroam cost?

1) UNLIMITED: You can BUY the new Solis X device for $179.99 or the Solis X Lite for $119.99 + shipping (calculated at checkout based on your location) and pay $9/day or $99/month for unlimited Internet. Purchasing the device also includes 1 Free Day Pass.

2) PAY PER GB: You can BUY the new Solis X device for $179.99 or the Solis X Lite for $119.99 + shipping and then pay $6/month for their pay-as-you-go GOData subscription + $6/GB (USA/Europe) or $9/GB (Worldwide). This plan requires that you own the Solis device. So to explain that in a different way for clarification, you pay $6/month for the service no matter what, then you just buy the gigabytes as you use them.

3) You can RENT the Solis X device for $8.99/day + shipping. If you choose to rent, you prepay for shipping both ways, and they include in the package a box with shipping label to return the device from whichever country you choose, or you can drop it off at one of their 150+ worldwide dropoff points.

COVERAGE: What countries does Skyroam offer coverage?

Skyroam provides Internet service in 190+ countries and growing. (It was 130 countries when I originally published this article, so they are definitely expanding.) Keep in mind that their local coverage is only as strong as the local towers they are renting from, so your service with Skyroam will only be as good as the towers around you. Skyroam offers service in a lot of countries, but they don't magically provide Internet where towers don't exist!

Speed Throttles: If you use over 500mb in one day on the $9/day or $99/month plan, they switch you from 4G speed to 2G/3G for the remainder of the day and then set you back to 4G speeds the next day. If you pay the $6/GB (USA/Europe) or $9/GB (Worldwide), you will always have 4G speed.

URL: Skyroam.com

Best Skyroam Alternatives: TEP Wireless

Skyroam Cons: 4G speed is limited to 500mbs/day on their unlimited plans.

Skyroam Discount Codes: Use this link and promo code “ TRAVELISLIFE ” at checkout for 10% off your entire purchase or rental.

#2) TEP Wireless / Travel Wifi / Sapphire Review 2020

TEP Wireless stands out amongst the crowd of hotspot providers because they offer a lot of valuable extras with their subscription including the following.

1) Prime WiFi – Free WiFi hotspot access at over 60+ million hotspots worldwide + free in-flight WiFi service on American Airlines, Lufthansa, Etihad and Air Lingus fleets equipped with WiFi. This is a HUGE perk because it'll allow you easy Internet access even in places with poor cell phone coverage.

2) Kitestring – an SMS based emergency service that checks in on you while you travel via scheduled text messages that you sent the frequency of. If you don't reply to the text, Kitestring sends your emergency contacts an alert message.

3) TEP Guru – a free local concierge service that privately connects you with locals via their TEP+ App who you can ask for recommendations on things to do, places to eat/drink, and where to stay from 9am to 8pm every day.

4) VOIP Phone & SMS Service – built-in to your service via their app with international calling prices that cost about $0.01/minute.

COSTS: How much does Travel Wifi / TEP Wireless “Teppy” cost?

1) You can RENT a Teppy starting at:

$8.95/day for 5GB of 4G service (includes travel adapter)
$11.95/day for UNLIMITED 4G service (includes travel adapter)

The actual prices listed above vary by country, and there are too many to list. However the more expensive countries only add about $1-3/day to the numbers above.

Shipping to you is free for a few countries but ranges in price for the rest of the world. You can then either return the device to one of their drop off points for free or pay to ship it back to one of their warehouse locations.

2) You can BUY a Teppy for $149 + $9.95 shipping (or higher depending on the country) which includes 1GB, and then Pay As You Go. There are too many pay-as-you-go options to list them all, but they've got plans through Sapphire ranging from Pay-Per-MB/GB all the way to Unlimited Daily plans like when you rent. You have a lot more options when you Buy the Teppy vs Rent the Teppy. With Daily Unlimited Pay-As-You Go plans, you can start and stop service anytime for 24 hour coverage windows. Purchasing the device comes with 1 Free Day Pass.

2) You can Subscribe to a monthly plan. Update Jan 2020: Monthly plans are no longer offered.

3) You can BUY a Travelwifi SIM Card for $34.95 with 20GB included and use it in your unlocked phone, then use your phone as a hotspot to connect other devices. This is currently offered in 85 countries. After you use up the initial 20GB, you can re-up your data with similar data packages as offered above.

Coverage: TEP Wireless works in 130+ countries. Now before you go thinking, “But Skyroam works in 190+ countries!” , keep in mind that you probably won't be visiting that many countries on your next trip. So you only need to make sure that these devices work in the countries that YOU are going to. You'll want to consult both of their websites to check your specific travel destinations for coverage before purchasing or renting.

Speed Throttles: After you've used 1GB/5GB per day (depending on your plan), your connection speed gets slowed to 256kbs until the end of the day and then the speed resets the next day.

URL: TEPWireless.com

Best TEP Wireless / Travel Wifi / Sapphire Alternatives: Skyroam

Full Review: For more info, read my full TEP Wireless Review & Comparison .

TEP Wireless / Travel Wifi Cons: Throttled 4G beyond 1GB. • Shorter battery life.

TEP Wireless / Travel Wifi Discounts: Use this link to TEPWireless.com and discount code 0TEPTILORG10 for 10% off your purchase or rental.

#3) KeepGo Review 2020

COST: How much does Keepgo cost?

UPDATE February 2020: Keepgo significantly reduced the cost of their data last year. This month they introduced a new GoFi Europe USA Plan for cheaper data in those countries. More info below.

Their SIM Cards cost $49 and their WiFi Hotspots cost $99 with free shipping to 38 countries. Their hotspots weight 75 grams and can power up to 16 devices for up to 11 hours per charge. Worldwide Data is priced in bundles at $14 for 500MB, $26 for 1GB, $61 for 3GB, $88 for 5GB, and $165 for 10GB. Their new GoFi Europe USA Plan offers data at a flat rate of $8/GB in those regions. You can switch between the plans anytime. They do not offer device rentals or unlimited plans.

Coverage: Keepgo offers service in 100+ countries.

Speed Throttles: Keepgo does not throttle your 4G speeds since you are paying per gigabyte. This is a huge perk of their service. If you're willing to pay for the data you consume without worry of being slowed down, then Keepgo is a good option for this reason.

URL: Keepgo.com

Best Keepgo Alternatives: Skyroam – specifically their new GoData Plan

KeepGo Cons: No unlimited data plans (yet).

KeepGo Discounts: Use this link to Keepgo and promo code TRAVELISLIFE for 10% off your purchase.

COST: How much does Travel Wifi cost?

Travel WiFi is now part of the TEP Wireless / Sapphire family of services. See my review of TEP Wireless above for their updated pricing.

Coverage: Previously Travel Wifi catered to France and Europe and offered limited Worldwide coverage, but now that they merged with TEP Wireless and Sapphire, they are able to offer worldwide coverage in 130+ countries.

URL: TravelWifi.com

Best Travel WiFi Alternatives: Skyroam

Travel WiFi Cons: No option to purchase device. • Shipping rates increase outside of France.

Travel WiFi Discounts: Use this link to Travel Wifi and the promo code “ 0TEPTILORG10 ” for 10% off your purchase.

COSTS: How much does Roaming Man cost?

Roaming Man ‘s rental service starts at $7.99/day in North America, Asia, and Europe and $9.99/day in the rest of the world + shipping in both directions and they require a minimum of 5 days rental period. As of Dec 2018, they now offer an option to purchase a device for $149.99 which you can activate with service as needed.

Coverage: 130+ countries and regions. .

Speed Throttles: If you use over 500mb in one day, they switch you from 4G speed to 2G/3G (or around 256kbs).

URL: RoamingMan.com

Best Roaming Man Alternatives: Skyroam or TEP Wireless

Roaming Man Cons: 4G speed is limited to 500mbs/day on Basic and 1GB/day on Premium with no option to add more.

#6) Google Project Fi Review 2020

Currently through Google, you can purchase the Pixel 4 & 4XL, Pixel 3a & Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 3 XL, and Moto G7. However you can also check their compatibility list to see if the service will work with our existing phone. (For example, it'll work with my Verizon unlocked Samsung 9.) Their service lets you seamlessly shift from their cellular coverage partners to over four million WiFi hotspots around the world. You are only charged for data received over their cellular network and not when on WiFi networks. You can port your existing phone number over to Project Fi from your existing carrier or get a new number. In the USA, they partner with Sprint, T-Mobile, and U.S. Cellular to provide coverage.

Cost: Project Fi offers worldwide flat rate service fees w/ free calls to 50+ countries and rates starting at 1¢/min to other countries. They offer a combination of Pay-Per-GB and Unlimited Plans for individuals and families including:

Individual: $70/month for unlimited calls, texts, and data (High-speed data up to 22 GB/person & slower after)
Family: $16-$18/month for unlimited calls & texts + $10/GB for data
Family: $45-$60/month per line for unlimited calls, texts, and data (High-speed data up to 22 GB/person & slower after)

For the Pay-Per-GB plans above, you only pay that amount you use at exactly $10/GB. So for example, if you used 1.226GB you'd pay $12.26 (not $20 for 2GB like some companies who charge for the next tier up).

Each plan also includes a free Google One membership ($19.99/year).

You can add as many tablets to your plan as you'd like for free and just pay for the data they use. While traveling outside of US, a flat $0.20/minute applies. While calling from within the US, international rates apply and vary by country. International data is the same flat rate of $10/GB in every country.

Coverage: 200+ countries and territories .

Speed Throttles: The unlimited plans throttle your speed after 22GB per month, however you can then switch to $10/GB if you need more 4G speed that month. The Pay-Per-GB plans throttle you after 15GB.

URL: Fi.Google.com

Best Google Fi Alternatives: Keepgo or Skyroam

Google Fi Cons: Only works on certain devices. • No hotspot devices. • No discount offered to Travel is Life readers.

Cost: Their SIM Card costs $14.95 + $5 shipping. Data rates start at $2.99/day, $0.11/hour, and $0.01/mb but vary per country. Their international rates average about $1.99/hour for 20mb, $9.99/day for 200mb, and $49/GB.

Coverage: 90 countries.

Speed Throttles: They do not throttle your speeds since they are essentially charging you per megabyte to be used within a window of time.

URL: AlwaysOnlineWireless.com

Best Always Online Wireless Alternatives: Keepgo

Always Online Wireless Cons: Data fees vary by country (sometimes substantially). • Separate data plan for each country. • No discount offered to Travel is Life readers.

I'm currently looking for a new service to replace them on my top 8 list since I had to remove one of them from the list. I've spent months and a lot testing / research with hotspot companies, and I'm narrowing in on one to add to the list soon. Rest assured, the wheels are in motion, but for now, I'd rather have a GREAT list of seven options than just add an eighth for the sake of having 8 options. In the meantime, stick to one of the other options mentioned on this list.

Which is the best mobile hotspot 2020?

If unlimited data is important to you then Skyroam or TEP Wireless will be a good choice because of their unlimited data options, flat rate pricing, and affordable devices. (Note: If you do go with Skyroam, be sure to use our promo code TRAVELISLIFE at checkout to save 15% off your entire purchase or rental. And if you go with TEP Wireless be sure to use our promo code 0TEPTILORG10 for 10% off.)

If you'd rather pay per gigabyte and have unthrottled 4G speed no matter how much you use, give either Skyroam or Keepgo a try and use our link for 10% off your purchase. If you have any questions about which service will fit your needs best, drop me a comment below and I'll do my best to help you out.

What's the cheapest WiFi hotspot service?

The least expensive hotspot for daily use is Skyroam with their $99/month unlimited plan which come out to $3.30/day for Internet access.

Keepgo doesn't offer an unlimited plan – but their data does not expire. So if you're only looking for occasional or emergency use Internet abroad, you can purchase 1GB from KeepGo and only use it when you need it. For minimal usage, this can be a savings because you're not paying for unlimited data that you don't need. Use this link to Keepgo and promo code TRAVELISLIE for 10% off your purchase.

See Also: Best International Data and Cell Phone Plans from USA Carriers

Travelers found this article by searching:

• International Portable Wifi Hotspot Reviews • What is the best portable WiFi hotspot for international travelers? • Unlimited Worldwide 4G Wireless Plans for Traveling • Best data plans that work in every country • Best international wifi hotspot devices for travel • Best mobile hotspot unlimited plans • How do I get Internet anywhere in the world?

If you like it then you should've put a Pin on it!

4G Wifi Hotspots for International Travelers

International Wifi Hotspot Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Since publishing this article, I've received hundreds of e-mails from travelers asking my advice about their particular situation and which hotspot service I'd recommend. I've responded to all of them privately, however, the questions they ask could benefit other readers. So moving forward, I'll be publishing some of the questions below as FAQs (however removing any personally identifiable information from the question). If you've got a question, feel free to contact me as well.

Why is Glocalme not in your review, as their devices seem pretty convenient and affordable?

I'm familiar with GlocalMe. They're actually owned by the same company who own Roaming Man who I do include on the list.

Can I use a Skyroam plan with a different hotspot device?

As far as I know, you cannot use a Skyroam plan with a 3rd party device. If you're interested in using your own device, look into purchasing a SIM card from Keepgo or TravelWifi .

To help soothe my 93 year old mother’s worry when I travel to KSA and countries in Eastern Europe, I am thinking about purchasing (not renting) a portable wifi hotspot and have read your recent reviews. The Roaming Man purchase device highly rated by you is out of stock and I have heard some recent concerns about Solis regarding connectivity/dropped signals. Any advice?

Reviews about these kinds of devices are tough because they're so anecdotal. So someone in a rural part of France could have a negative experience with Skyroam/ TEP / Roaming Man (or whichever) while someone else in Paris could have zero issues. The variance is that any of these devices are connecting to local towers, which play a big role in how people perceive the device itself.

I personally use Skyroam and TEP Wireless — which are also the two highest picked choices by my readers. However I'm mostly in South America (although was in Georgia for two months this year and it worked fine there). Those would provide you with the most options if you own the device itself. You could also just pick up a cheap unlocked second phone as a device and use Keepgo for emergencies only (because the data lasts a year and doesn't expire if you up it a little each year). For example, you can get new unlocked phones for like $100-200 and use them as a hotspot with an International SIM like Keepgo and have the best of both worlds.

Sorry it's hard to give specific advice. So much is country / regional specific as to how well your devices will connect. You might want to make a list of each country you'll be going to and cross reference the coverage of the specific companies you're interested in to see which would provide the best coverage overall. I think you'll find that those three companies will be pretty similar though coverage-wise.

Happy to help if I can offer further assistance. The advice above is what I use / what I would do in your shoes.

I am considering being a digital nomad and traveling extensively. In the past, I just got a SIM card that included tons of data (EE, Vodafone). Your article on The 8 Best WiFi Hotspots for International Travelers is informative but can't help with my needs, as the options have data/ speed thresholds/ limitations. Am I already doing the best bet by simply tethering my cell phone's wifi to my computer? Know of anything else?

I mostly use the hotspots for convenience purposes, but like you, when I stay long periods of time places, I just buy local SIM cards from local carriers. That's always been the cheapest option for me. FYI though – not all of the options I profiled in that article you found me on have data caps. Keepgo for example doesn't throttle your speeds.

The only other suggestion I have for you is to look into subscriptions for WiFi hotspots around the world like Skype Wifi (formerly Skype Access) or Boingo. But it might be hit or miss with whether they offer wifi near where you're traveling. Sounds to me like you're on the right track with what you've got now.

Question / Suggestions

If you've got a question or suggestion, feel free to contact me or leave a comment below.

62 Comments

Looking for something while on a cruise ship. Ship charges a fortune for one device. Any recommendations?

Cruise ships really are expensive for Internet! Unfortunately, the hotspots on this list won’t be much better for you because they connect to local towers. And none of the options on this list that I know of offer service in open water. I had written another article about the Best International Data and Cell Phone Plans from USA Carriers – but unfortunately they don’t offer great options either. Cruises are a tough one as you know. Sorry I can’t be more helpful to you.

What about countries in the Middle East, such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Turkey? Which would be best?

Hi Matt – Looks like many of them including Skyroam and TEPWireless (which have been the two most popular so far with my readers) offer the coverage you’re looking for. TEP’s got the ability to upgrade the amount of 4G data in your package for an extra couple bucks a day but Skyroam has the new unlimited monthly plan for $99/month – so depending on how long you’ll be traveling, that might be a good fit.

Do you know if any of these (or any others) will offer wifi while on a plane? I’m traveling from JFK to South Africa on South African Airways, and the plane does not have in-flight wifi.

Hey Cammi – At the moment I don’t know of any. TEP Wireless advertises on their website that their In Flight WiFi feature is coming soon and will be included with their plans, but a date has not been announced for when that’s going to happen. Sorry that doesn’t do much to help you on your upcoming trip. If you happen to find something that works for you, please pop back in and let me know and I’ll update the post to help others as well.

looks like the inflight is up

Thanks Dahlia – good find. I just confirmed with TEP Wireless too. (Not that I don’t trust you haha I just always confirm every update.) They just wrote, “Tep’s in-flight service covers American Airlines, Lufthansa, Etihad and Air Lingus fleets equipped with WiFi.”

I’ll update my post accordingly. Thank you again for the heads up.

Thanks for this helpful article! I am planning for our Summer trip to Europe and I am still searching and comparing the options for wifi rental. Would like to add a few things:

– Skyroam monthly rental of $99 is only available to existing customers who have already bought their device. And the rental renews automatically until cancelled. I have confirmed these after calling the company

– There are many negative reviews about Tep Wireless on Tripadvisor.com, mostly are from a few years back

Since Skeyroam service is so new, how can we get reliable review on their services?

bWise – You’re the best. Thank you for discovering that info about Skyroam and coming back here to share it with me and everyone reading this. I will update this post later about the $99/month only being available to customers who own the device and about it auto-renewing. Thanks again and enjoy your summer trip to Europe!

Thanks for the comprehensive article. We are Canadians going on a 21 day trip in France, and will not need any special wi-fi device after that. For that reason, rental is the best for us, I think, but I can’t find many options. What do you recommend?

Hey Mina – Your trip around France sounds like a blast. Perhaps Skyroam would be the most ideal and economical option for you if you need a lot of data since they offer the 30 Day Unlimited Package for $99. The caveat to that is you have to BUY the device itself for $149 so it’d come out to about $248 for the 30 days and you’ll have the device forever after that to activate when you please. Alternatively, Keepgo can sell you a SIM Card that you just pay for however much data you think you’ll need over the 3 weeks (or can always add more along the way). That method is economical if you won’t require unlimited data. You can just buy 2 GBs for the trip. Lastly, if you’ve got an unlocked phone, you can always just buy a local prepaid SIM Card in France. 3 weeks is enough time that it may be worth it for you to dedicate an hour when you first arrive into finding a local prepaid plan. The downside of that avenue is that you won’t have Internet the moment you get off the plane (which you might need) and you have to deal with local companies, but it’d probably be the least expensive option of the three I outlined above. If you have any specific questions though, feel free to ask here or e-mail me at [email protected] and I’ll do my best to steer you in the right direction. If you end up going with a different option all together not mentioned on this page, please pop back in and let me know. I want to keep this page updated with the best options.

Which device do you recommend for doing a live Instagram video abroad?

Hi Manuel – Technically any device that connects to 4G could handle that job, but perhaps consider either Keepgo (who don’t throttle 4G speeds at all) or TEP Wireless (who allow you to upgrade to 1GB of 4G speed per day). Because if you’ll be live streaming a lot, I’m thinking that paying for access to 4G speed would be in your best interest versus getting throttled mid-way through a live stream.

i highly recommend google fi 😀

works like a charm

I think it is worth pointing out that Skyroam has a more limited world coverage than TEP does – including pretty popular countries like Japan. This was definitely the most important factor in making my choice.

Hi. Thanks for the comprehensive survey. Kindly advise – I travel several times a year each trip 7 to 10 days, worldwide. I’d like to purchase a device and activate it for each trip separately. My data demands are not specially large. What would you recommend? Thanks in advance for your kind assistance.

Hi Udi – If you’re looking for a device (and not a SIM card), consider Skyroam . They’ve been my most popular choice amongst readers. You can purchase one of their devices and then activated it as needed before your trips. Please note their coverage area though. While their service may be great in the areas they cover, you’ll want to double check that they cover the areas that you specifically will be traveling. Good luck!

Hej, Both Skyroam and Ted don’t cover Montenegro and some other countries in Europe. And Roaming Man device sell them ONLY inside US. I live in Sweden and traveling to Montenegro, need a large data and 4 G speed. What kind of device could you recommend for me? I want to buy one…😊 Best regards/Anna

Hi Anna – Sorry to say but it doesn’t look like any of the foreign hotspot companies cover Montenegro. I’m thinking it’s because of the telecommunication companies in Montenegro not offering roaming agreements. That’s usually the case when NONE of the companies offer it. Even Travel-Wifi which specializes in Europe can’t offer service in Montenegro. Sorry to disappoint! Sounds like the best and only option for you would be to just pick up a local SIM card after you arrive. If possible, don’t do it at the airport though because they are usually heavily inflated prices. If you end up finding a better solution, please pop back in and let me know so that other people reading this can benefit from your research. Have a great time on your trip!

Hi Paul – Loved your info here! I’m doing a one time 10 day trip to Spain by myself and have an Iphone 8 w/Verizon service, I don’t want to buy a device (wouldn’t use it enough) and will need to use mapping, texting, and internet. I will be driving around the country and need reliability. I also have an older Ipad I’m taking that has AT&T wifi…Not sure if that can be connected too? EEEk I’m not tech savvy and need a little guidance on what would be the easiest way to be connected and stay connected while I’m there.

Many Thanks! Susan

Hi Susan – Thanks for stopping by before your trip. In a nutshell you’ve got three options:

1) You can buy a roaming package with Verizon Wireless for your trip and use your existing device and SIM card. I have more info about that in my article Best International Data and Cell Phone Plans from USA Carriers or just give Verizon a call to inquire. This is the most expensive option.

2) If you want to use your existing device (and not buy a separate hotspot like Skyroam or TEP Wireless ), you can get an international SIM card from a company like Keepgo to replace the Verizon SIM in your iPhone while you’re away. A service like Keepgo will connect your existing phone to 4G towers across Europe. You pre-purchase the data in GB packages and use it as you need it. This is significantly less expensive than option 1, but not as cheap as the next option.

3) You can show up in Spain, find out who their local cell phone carriers are, and buy a SIM card and prepaid plan for 10 days. A quick Google search showed me that they have four carriers: Orange, Movistar, Vodafone, and Yoigo. So you could find a store on your first day in town and purchase a prepaid plan. This would most likely be your least expensive option. Just don’t buy anything at the airport even if you see those companies with a booth setup because they often charge you 10x the price that you’d receive at a local store. Make sure to bring your passport too because they will most likely ask.

Options 1 and 2 would be your most convenient because you’d have Internet from the second you stepped off the plane without any logistics of finding a local store and getting setup with a prepaid plan, however option 3 is the least expensive. Good luck! Holler if you have anymore questions.

Looking for low-cost long-term emergency access both at home and abroad with a lot of data available when I do need it (up to ~5GB/day)

I would imagine that Keepgo would be your best bet from this list because you can top up the data once a year so that none of it expires, and there is no data capping so you’d have a lot of data when you need it.

Thanks so much for your help with this….much appreciated! Happy Travels 🙂

Well this is frustrating. I tried a Sprint hotspot about ten years ago. It was expensive ($150/mo) and provided very little data (6GB/mo). Speed and price have gone way up, but actual amount of data is still pretty much the same…

Think so? Skyroam is at $9/day or $99/mo for unlimited data or $9/GB for pay as you go. Far cry from the $25/GB you were paying with Sprint.

Have you researched Glocalme with the G3 hotspot and new S1 world phone? I’m trying to decide between getting a new device with google fi and/or a hotspot/phone with Glocalme. I go to Japan yearly and for two months at a time. I’ve rented hotspots in the past but I think owning my own or having a better longer term options makes more sense as time goes on. I like keepgo and have researched all of the other options in your list. My two main goals are that whatever I can get can work simply between us, croatia, slovenia, turkey, and japan. And my other goal is that is get get fast, unthrottled speeds in Japan for video work. Google fi throttles but at a higher point than most others.

Hi Javon – GlocalMe is the same company as Roaming Man which is why I did not include it on the list twice for hotspots. I’ve got another resource coming out about International SIM Cards (versus hotspots) and was considering bringing attention to that S1 world phone on there or making a separate article about world phones. There’s a bit of an overlap between these companies when it comes to hotspots, SIMs, world phones, but some companies only provide one or the other. It’d be a tough call if I were in your shoes too as to what to do. I personally like being able to use my same device everywhere, versus having to have a separate international phone just for traveling, which is why I’d probably do Google Fi if I were in your shoes, so that I could use a Pixel 3 the rest of the year in USA too. Sorry I’m more than a week late replying to your comment. Just curious, had you made a decision since then? And if so, what’d you decide to do?

Hi Paul, Have you heard about Sapphire Hotspot. My friends are using it and I wonder how well it works compare to Skyroam. Thanks

Hi Eric – No I have not. I added it to my list of hotspots to check out in the future though. Thanks for bringing it to my attention. What do your friends think of it?

Hey Paul, I liked your write up on TEP Wireless & was going to go with it. All though I read a horror story on them elsewhere. But it was dated in 2014 & yours was more current. I tried your code “A7YKMS7Z10 – 10% discount”. & it didn’t work. Do you have a new code for them? Fingers crossed to use them. I need a Wifi Hotspot connection in Mexico next month…

HI Louie – Thanks for letting me know that the code expired. It’s for a limited number of uses and unfortunately the only way for me to find out it’s run out is when someone lets me know. I reached out to my rep at TEP Wireless and will have the code updated on this page as soon as I have it. I also made note to e-mail you directly with the code when I have it so that you don’t have to check back. Normally they set me up with a new code within a few days, so if you can’t find another one before then, I should have a working one again by end of the week. Thanks again.

All set – same code is active again for another 200 uses. Thanks again for letting me know it had reached its limit.

Hi Paul -Great reviews and advise. Looks like the TEP code is no longer active. Any chance you can renew for another 200 uses? Thanks!

Hey Cliff – You rock! Thanks for letting me know. I just e-mailed TEP Wireless to have it renewed. I’ll post an update when it’s ready, but I also made a note to e-mail you directly when I hear back from them. Thanks again.

Cliff – New code is now active and updated on the site. Thanks again for letting me know.

Loved your thorough article! I’m another cruise traveler but am fine with coverage while in port. We’re traveling from the US to Morocco (one week at sea) then hitting many of the small islands (Canary, Funchal, Azores) on our way around western Europe (Portugal, Spain, France, Northern Italy). I tried chatting with TEP Wireless and the agent mentioned very spotty service in the island areas and they didn’t answer the question about whether or not I need to pay for service for the week we’re at sea. (In their defence, I was in a hurry and didn’t re-ask the question) What is your opinion regarding paying for the TEP Wireless daily use plan vs daily ATT phone charges while in Africa and switching to a European SIM plan once in mainland Portugal? Or did I miss the boat completely and you’ve the perfect solution (apologies for the pun).

Hi Jodi – Unfortunately if you rent a Teppy, I believe you’d have to pay for the service the entire time you rent it (which means the week you’re at sea). However, it’s worth a follow-up call to ask again. Maybe they’d send you the device early but only activate it and have you pay for the service after the cruise. It’s worth a shot asking.

You might want to consider Keepgo and buying one of their international SIM cards and just using it in your existing phone when you need it. Then you’re only paying per GB instead of per day, which might be a better fit for you for this trip.

Regarding TEP vs ATT… definitely not ATT. Their international plans are crazy expensive. I don’t mean to single out ATT either because in general, utilizing the international roaming with your US cellular plan is never usually a great choice. It’d be cheaper to buy a gig or two from Keepgo like I mentioned earlier. However, I do support getting a local SIM in Europe once you arrive in Portugal if you’ll be there a while because that would be your most affordable option. Just don’t buy it at the airport because they’re always like 10x the price. Wait until you go to a local store outside of the airport.

Does that advice help at all? Feel feel to reply back with additional questions if not.

Google Fi throttles data at 15GB. It seems to be 256kb. So, it is free data after paying $10/GB for the first 6GB, but any use over 15GB is throttled until the start of the next billing cycle.

Thanks for the info David. Do they give you the option of paying $10/GB beyond the first 6GB and NOT throttling?

Hi Paul, I travel and live in India (Kashmir) and Nepal for 3-6 mos. a year. I work for most of that time and need the internet to connect with the program I use as well as clients. I can work up to 3+ hours a day but less at times…I have an indian sim but wifi is iffy in Kashmir particularly and my plan doesn’t provide much time on the hotspot. I am “older” and not incredibly tech savvy and there are so many programs/devices out there it is confusing as to which would be best for me? Can you help me out? it would be much appreciated. thanks in advance! robin

Hi Robin – One thing to keep in mind is that these international hotspots are going to connect to the same towers that your local carriers are using. The international providers are merely renting their usage through roaming agreements. So if the areas you are traveling don’t offer a high enough quality connection, chances are that the international hotspots listed on this page are going to offer similar connection speed. The caveat to that statement is that there are often multiple sets of towers from different local providers in each area, so the international hotspots could potentially use the competitor towers which might be better. I don’t have a way of knowing though, so I wanted to provide realistic expectations.

The other bad news is that none of the carriers listed above offer service in Nepal, so you’d still be limited to working with whatever local carrier you use now. There is often overlap because the geographic coverage of these international hotspot companies because their coverage relate directly to roaming agreements. If for some reason, Nepal doesn’t offer international roaming availability at this time, then none of the major providers are going to offer service there. If anyone does first, it’ll be one of the companies on this list.

I think your best option is to continue with local carriers and go with an unlocked hotspot that you can use in any general hotspot device, which I’m unfortunately not familiar with enough to recommend one in particular. They’re pretty simple devices so most would do the trick – as long as they’re unlocked and not specific to a carrier. Please let me know if you have any more questions, or alternatively what solution ended up being best for you so that others reading this can benefit from your research. Thank you!

Hi, I am planning a year long family trip ‘around the world.’ We will spend quite a bit of time across Europe, the Middle East, Asia & Australia as well as some time in the US and Haiti. During this time, my children will be attending school via distance learning – they need approximately 4 – 6 hours per day (3 – 4 days per week) of live video conferencing via Adobe Connect. Is there any service that can handle this without a bill the size of a mortgage?

Thanks so much for your help!

Hi Mike – Your year long trip sounds amazing. I love hearing about families having experiences like that.

Regarding your question about Adobe Connect video conferencing… I did some research on Adobe’s website and found this PDF where they breakdown bandwidth requirements for web video, but they don’t easily translate that into actual MB usage.

From case studies I’ve seen in the past, it takes about 150MB / hour for video conferencing, but that differs on the video resolution you’re using and on the service itself. So for you that’d be about 600-900 MB per day, which technically would keep you under the typical 1GB daily data cap on 4G data that most of these services have to employ because of their Fair Use Policies and roaming agreements. So perhaps something like the unlimited monthly plans with Skyroam and TEP Wireless would serve you best, assuming they cover the areas you’ll be traveling which you’ll want to check ahead of time.

If any of the video conferencing is being streamed on your phones, you might also look into a service like Speedify which bridges Wifi and Cellular connections together, but prioritizes Wifi. So that way you can connect to Wifi whenever possible, but if it’s not strong enough, the Cellular 4G signal will fill in the gaps so you don’t lose connection. But remember that’s only for when streaming on your cell or tablet that has both a Wifi receiver and a SIM card.

Just throwing some ideas out here because you’ll be consuming a lot of data, so a happy balance between Wifi and 4G might be best whenever possible. Please follow up if your research takes you in a different direction. I’d love to know what works best for your world schooling scenario so I can share the solution with other families in your shoes. Good luck!

Hi. I will be travelling the length of Japan, camping along the way for 3 months. I need a reliable internet connection for daily use of email/Skype and Google maps. Can you advise which option would be most suitable? Thanks!

Hi Ronny – That sounds like an amazing trip. I hope you have a great time! 3 months is a healthy amount of time to be in one country. Aside from my suggestions of hotspots, you may also want to consider a local prepaid plan (ie: buy a prepaid SIM from a local carrier after you arrive in Japan). That would typically be your least expensive option. These hotspots I mention are great and very convenient, but you pay a premium for the convenience. For a three month trip, it might be worth the time to buy a local SIM (whereas you wouldn’t want to take the time to do that on a short trip). Alternatively, I recommend going with either Skyroam or TEP Wireless and subscribing to their $99/month unlimited plans because that would be your least expensive route versus paying for a daily rate. (Look in the article above for my current discount codes.) However keep in mind that both of those services use hotspot devices. If you’d like to just replace your SIM card with an international one and use your phone for Internet in Japan, consider Keepgo . You pay per GB with Keepgo so you’d have to be mindful of your usage (especially with Skype) as opposed to Skyroam or TEP Wireless which offer the unlimited plans. All three of those services I just mentioned work in Japan. Good luck! Happy to answer any additional question if I can help.

Recommendations for Costa Rica? We are going for a week in May and need something to keep connected (mostly posting to Facebook, Instagram and playing movies, games and apps for my son’s Kindle during down time). The Air BnB has free Wifi but I am hoping for something for the travel to and from (about and hour and a half drive from airport). Also looking for Wifi calling and texting (iPhone messages) to check on the dogs back home.

Hi Michelle – If you’re looking to add Wifi Calling & Texting into the mix, sounds like TEP Wireless would be your best bet. Alternatively, you could use any hotspot on the list above (or connect to Wifi at your Airbnb) and use a Wifi phone/text service like Google Voice. Last option, Verizon Wireless and AT&T also have Wifi Calling/Texting as a free service with your plan, so if you use either of them, that may be worthwhile. If you’re not familiar with the feature, it basically means that you can call and text when you don’t have service from any device connected to Wifi. If you did that route, you’d want to turn off Mobile Data on your phone and just connect via Wifi. Then your calls and texts would still work. Just be sure to contact either company ahead of time incase they need to activate the feature on your account and/or phone. If hypothetically you had TEP Wireless or any of those other hotspot devices, you’d be connecting to them via Wifi, so the Verizon Wireless or AT&T Wifi Calling/Texting would work the same. Just throwing that out there because maybe you don’t actually need the “Wifi Texting / Calling” that TEP Wireless offers if you use AT&T or Verizon. Have a great time on your trip!

Hi, Do you have a TEP Wireless discount code that works? When I enter: A7YKMS7Z10 it says it’s an invalid code. Thanks!

Hey Julie – Thanks for bringing it to my attention that the code is no longer active. I messaged TEP Wireless to renew it. I’ll update this post at the time, but also made note to e-mail you directly. Thanks again.

Julie – New code is now active and updated on the site. Thanks again for letting me know.

Thanks for this super helpful Article! My gf and I are both designers and are planning to travel in our SUV and freelance on the go. Therefore wifi is one of the main things that we need to figure out. At the moment it does seem like Skyroam or TEP are the best options since they have a flat rate for unlimited. I can def do more research into this but any more information or personal preferences/reasons that you can provide may help us make a decision too. Maybe you know of other freelance designers whoa re in the same position? What are they using? We will be in South America to start (probs for the first year) then may end up somewhere else. Nothing is planned that far ahead but we do know for sure that we will be traveling and designing so wifi is crucial. Looking forward to your response and insight!

Thanks MJ – glad the article was helpful. Your travel plans sound awesome, but I’ve got a soft spot for Central and South America. I’ve spent most of the last 5 years there, minus a few months in the Philippines. Don’t skip Ecuador! Regarding hotspots, I think that you’re spot on that TEP Wireless or Skyroam would be good options because of their unlimited plans. Sounds like you’d be using a lot of data like me. Keep in mind too that if you were to buy a device with Skyroam, you don’t have to do the unlimited plan forever. You could certainly do that when you need it, and then just activate it for daily usage other times. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time in Central/South America than you may also find it best to use a combination of these devices for convenience, and then local SIM cards other times if you’re going to be spending a significant amount of time in one country. That’s what I do. Good luck with your trip! Keep in touch on my Facebook .

Interested in a mobile hotspot (MiFi/WiFi) but concerned about the locations I visit such as the Philippines and Thailand. What type of coverage can one get being the network so slow there? I need to be able to access or have the ability to stream either music or movies.

Good question. The Philippines was harder for me in some areas. The thing is with these international hotspots is that your coverage with them will only be as good as your coverage with local carriers, because they’re roaming off the local towers. So many areas of the Philippines and Thailand are great, other smaller islands aren’t as good. It’s too hard to generalize an entire country when it really comes down to the specific areas you’ll be using the device. Wish I could offer more guidance here, but predicting coverage is nearly impossible. The countries you mentioned are covered by most of the hotspots on my list, but individual results may vary depending on how rural you’ll be traveling. Good luck and enjoy your trip!

So I’m headed to Iceland next week and will need to be doing some work while I’m there. We’ll be caravanning and camping around the island and as a designer, I’ll be designing posts, editing images and other products and will need a solid connection to my google drive as that’s my server. What would you recommend for the week that can help me stay connected and productive while out in the middle of nowhere. I’m open to either renting or buying as I do have an agency and this hotspot could come in handy for future trips.

Thanks, Rob

Hi Rob – I hope I’m catching you in time before your trip, or if not, that you found a great solution from the info in my post. Skyroam and TEP Wireless have been my two most popular options, and both work in Iceland. The concerning part is when you say “while out in the middle of nowhere.” Any of the hotspot companies, including those two, share towers via roaming agreements with the local Iceland wireless provides. So they will work where there is service provided by the local companies, but can’t magically make a signal appear otherwise. Your best bet would be to look up the coverage maps of Iceland wireless providers and see if they offer 4G or 3G coverage where you’re going to be. If so, there’s a good chance that one of the bigger hotspot providers will work there too. However, at that point, you could just buy a prepaid SIM from one of the local Iceland wireless providers and use your phone as a hotspot. “Middle of nowhere” is hard. Hopefully in the future Elon Musk will put all those satellite dishes in the sky and provide worldwide global satellite access, but until then my friend… we’re stuck with the coverage we’ve got in the middle of nowhere. Have a great trip!

Hello! I am currently planning a trip to Nigeria (Africa) for 2- 3 months and I am in need of a good wifi. While in Nigeria, I need to be able to work remotely, Skype calling and school work. Between TEP Wireless and Skyroam, which of the 2 would you suggest and what plan do you feel with it’s best for my need.

Hey Jill – Sorry I’m seeing your comment so late. I think that either would be fine for your needs. Both offer similar service areas in Nigeria and pricing structure. Perhaps if any of TEP’s features standout for you, they might be the way to go. Or if Skyroam’s new Solis X is attractive for it’s camera, then that. But if just for Internet service, either should do the trick. Have you already chosen one? And if so, just out of curiosity, which did you end up going with? I hope you enjoy your trip to Nigeria!

Hi Paul – Thanks for the helpful article. Quick question, I will be in Paris and Amsterdam for a total of about 6 days and was exploring renting a hotspot to use for wifi, directions, texting etc. It seems as though the Skyroam rental hotspot is the best option especially since you can connect multiple devices. What do you think? Thanks in advance!

Hi MD – I think that Skyroam would work just fine for you especially if you’re looking at connecting multiple devices. Perhaps their unlimited daily for the week would serve you well. I hope you have an amazing trip!

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Paul @ Travel is Life

How to get internet when traveling

Reliable internet for travel is a must-have that you don’t want to leave home without. The last thing you want when you’re traveling abroad is to be lost wandering the streets of Rome at nightfall without access to Google Maps—will you really remember how to ask for directions in Italian? Probably not.

While you’re traveling, you can also use internet to find the best restaurants when you’re away from your hotel and check your pet cam to see how your cat is faring without you: all things you clearly can’t live without.

The good news is there are nearly endless options for getting internet service while traveling, but it does take some digging to find the one that’ll work best for you. Identifying the best option for your trip depends on how long you’ll be gone, how often you plan to use the internet, and where you’re going.

We’ve researched the three best options for common travel scenarios along with recommended providers for each, so you can check "internet" off your packing list and move on to the more exciting aspects of travel planning.

The best internet options for travel

Best overall: upgrade your phone plan.

$5–$10/day or up to $100/mo.
Upgrade on Verizon
Upgrade on AT&T
Upgrade on T-Mobile

Best for long-term travel: buy a SIM card

$1–$5/day (depending on which country you visit)
View Holafly Plans
View Airalo Plans

Best portable hotspot: Rent pocket Wi-Fi

Starts at $5/day (sometimes less if you rent in the country rather than before you leave)
View TravelWifi Plans
View GlocalMe Plans

Our three best options for internet while traveling are all portable—it’s important for your connection to be light and easy to transport. All of our recommended solutions are also on the more affordable end, but they can be scaled up in service quality and data quantity to meet your needs if price isn’t a priority for you. Understanding exactly what you plan to do with your connection and knowing where you’re going and how long you’ll be there will help you pick an internet solution that’s not too overpowered or underpowered for your needs.

Another thing to note is that our options are primarily geared toward international travel, although many of our solutions would still work for travel inside the US. If you’ll be traveling by RV or van, check out our guide on how to get internet in your RV to get more specific recommendations. And if you’ll be traveling domestically but don’t want to use your phone for internet, you can probably meet most of your internet needs with free Wi-Fi hotspots.

Are you traveling to Mexico or Canada? Every major cell provider (Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T) already offers unlimited talk, text, and data in Canada and Mexico if you have an unlimited phone plan in the US. So if you plan to visit either of these countries, check your phone plan first. You might already be set.

Upgrade your phone plan

The fact that 60% of internet traffic happens on mobile devices (1) isn’t lost on the three major cell providers: if you’re always surfing the web on your phone at home, why should that be any different when you’re abroad—especially when your phone is also your camera? To meet this need, major providers offer simple and customizable solutions for upgrading your phone plan for traveling abroad.

We recommend this as the best option overall because it’s the most seamless. You won’t have to buy an additional device or SIM card, you can prep it ahead of time, and it’s easy to pay only for what you need. Plus, you’re already used to using your phone to look up everything anyway, so keeping that same resource available while you’re abroad is just one less thing to worry about. You can focus more on your trip and less on the logistics.

That said, this solution works best if you already have a phone plan with Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T. If you’re getting cell service through a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that doesn’t own its own infrastructure, like Cricket or Mint Mobile, the process of upgrading your phone plan to travel gets a little more difficult and expensive for the level of service you get in return.

As far as offerings for the three major carriers go, Verizon and AT&T both offer plans specifically for certain cruise and flight destinations. But for other travel, Verizon takes a more user-friendly approach through TravelPass , which is a super spiffy option to use your phone abroad exactly like you do at home. To get started, you simply text “TRAVEL” to 4004 and you’ll be set. Whenever you use your phone abroad, you’ll be charged $10 for the day. There’s no need to remove it once you get home either. It’s simply a feature you can use and pay for when you need it.

On T-Mobile, you’ll get built-in international roaming on every plan—the catch is your speeds will be slower than what you get in the US (the speeds are usually around 2G) unless you upgrade to a higher-tier plan. Not sure which upgrade option would be best for you? Each provider offers a walk-through guide where you enter where you’re traveling to and your current plan information, and then they tell you which upgrade would make the most sense.

Pros and cons of upgrading your phone plan

Quick and easy to set up
Pay only for what you need
Use your phone just like you do at home
No extra devices required
Usually comes with unlimited data
Keep your same phone number
More expensive than buying a SIM card
Not ideal if you don’t already have Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile
Speeds are subject to signal availability where you’re traveling

Buy a SIM card

There are two types of SIM cards you can buy: local SIM cards that you purchase in the country you’re traveling to and eSIM cards that you can purchase in the US ahead of time. If you’re planning on traveling to one country and staying for a while, buy a local SIM card once you get there (just make sure you’re using an unlocked phone, which is a phone that’s not bound to a certain carrier). It’ll work just like a prepaid SIM card in the US—first, you’ll choose which carrier you want to buy the card from and then decide how much talk, text, and data you want on your card. Since it’s prepaid, you’ll just pay for what you want ahead of time rather than worrying about running up a hefty bill as you go.

This is by far the most affordable option, but it’s not worth the hassle if you don’t plan on staying for more than a week or will be hopping countries frequently. You’ll also want to investigate local laws in the country you’re traveling to before you bank on buying a local SIM card. Some countries are more stringent than others in what they require to give you a SIM card.

Learn more about SIM card availability and requirements in each country.

If you’d rather have your internet ready to go from the moment you land, go with an eSIM card. An eSIM card is basically just a built-in roaming data hotspot designed specifically for the country you’re traveling to, so you’ll have to buy multiple if you plan on hopping countries. But the convenient side of eSIM cards is that they don’t require you to change your phone number. They work digitally rather than physically.

Furthermore, eSIM cards are based in the US, so you won’t be able to make local calls within the country you’re visiting like you would if you bought a local SIM card for your phone. Once you sign up for an eSIM card, you’ll just scan a QR card to install it, and then you’ll be ready to roll. If you’re planning on visiting multiple countries in one trip, you can buy several eSIM cards (one for each country) ahead of time and then just activate them via QR code as you progress through your travels.

Best eSIM card providers

Editor's choice: Holafly
Runner-up: Airalo

Pros and cons of SIM cards

Cheapest option overall
Gets you the max speeds available in the country (roaming plans don’t get the same priority data)
Can set up service ahead of time
Know how much you’ll spend on data since it’s prepaid
Need an unlocked phone for local SIM cards
A hassle when hopping countries
Service is dependent on local availability
Some countries require personal identification numbers to get SIM cards

Rent pocket Wi-Fi

Similar to SIM cards, renting pocket Wi-Fi is something you can do in the US or when you arrive in the country you’re visiting. You can often get the best rates if you rent Wi-Fi after you get to your destination, but it’s easier to do this in some countries than others. Countries like Japan have pocket Wi-Fi widely available in vending machines, but that’s not the case in a lot of other countries.

If you opt to rent your pocket Wi-Fi via vending machine or through another retailer, you’ll need to drop off the device once you’re done. Many pocket Wi-Fi providers offer drop-offs at airports or other convenient locations. But if you don’t have access to a drop-off point, you can always mail it back yourself. Just know that if you don’t return your device within the return window (usually around 2 days after your rental ends), you’ll be charged an extra fee.

If you plan on traveling to multiple countries in one trip, it would make more sense to get your pocket Wi-Fi ahead of time rather than finding a new source of pocket Wi-Fi in each country you go to. The two best pocket Wi-Fi providers that we recommend both offer hotspots that work seamlessly across multiple countries.

Portable hotspots are also great for travelers who need to connect multiple devices to one connection. So, if you’re traveling as a family or group and everyone wants to post to Instagram at the end of the day, using a portable hotspot is a more affordable option than upgrading everyone’s phone plan—although there will be less speed and data available. Portable hotspots are also ideal for people who plan on working internationally because they can serve as a Wi-Fi network for your laptop.

Although pocket Wi-Fi is highly convenient, it’s not quite as convenient as just having everything working from your phone. Creating a hotspot from your phone is possible, too, if you have it included in your plan. Carrying around a pocket hotspot means you’ll have one more device to keep track of and charge, and you’ll have to pay more money for the level of service you’ll get in return.

Best pocket Wi-Fi rental providers

Editor's choice: TravelWiFi
Runner-up: GlocalMe

Pros and cons of pocket Wi-Fi

Longer battery life than your phone
Works across 140+ countries
Good options for groups of people who want to share a connection
Highly portable
Great for connecting additional devices, like laptops or gaming systems
Lower data limits with slowed speeds once you hit the threshold
More expensive for what you get
Adds another gadget to your gear rather than just working from your phone

Tips on internet for travel

No matter which internet option you choose, you should always use a VPN (virtual private network) when using the internet away from home. Using a VPN can slow down your connection slightly, so it might be tricky if you’re on a connection that’s already barely getting by. But the extra layer of privacy and security is worth it—especially if you plan on accessing public or free Wi-Fi. You’ll also want to check the local VPN laws in the country you’re traveling to—some countries are stricter than others, and you don’t want to get in trouble on your vacation. Learn more about VPNs and why they’re important .

Use free Wi-Fi wherever you can

Even if you are paying for an internet plan while you travel, it’s not a bad idea to use free Wi-Fi options as often as you can to save on data and costs. You can make your money and your data go farther if you connect to free Wi-Fi whenever you’re back at the hotel or hostel or hanging out at a restaurant or cafe with a free network. Nowadays it’s standard practice for hotels (and even hostels and Airbnb rentals) to offer free Wi-Fi, but the speeds are always a bit of a gamble. If the Wi-Fi where you’re staying is sporadic, you can always trust the global franchises of McDonald’s and Starbucks to get you online. Both are available worldwide and both are known for their above-average free Wi-Fi.

Buy a portable charger

Whether you choose to use your phone as your primary source of internet or buy pocket Wi-Fi, it’s a fact that you’ll be burning through battery power quickly. Even the most proactive traveler can get caught in a snag if the sun saps your battery or if you spend more time hunting down your next museum than you expected. Keeping a portable charger on hand will be one more thing to carry around, but you won’t regret it. You’ll also need to bring a power converter for the country you’re traveling to—otherwise your portable charger won’t be of much use to you. Having both of these items on hand will add a lot of peace of mind, and they’ll definitely come in clutch once, twice, or more likely every single day of your trip.

Cara Haynes has been writing and editing about internet service and TV for six years. Previous to contributing to Helpful, she worked on HighSpeedInternet.com and SatelliteInternet.com. She graduated with a BA in English and a minor in editing from Brigham Young University. She believes no one should feel lost in internet land and that a good internet connection significantly extends your lifespan.

Bri Field has a background in academia, research writing, and brand marketing. She has edited scientific publications, conference papers, digital content, and technical communications. As Assigning Editor, she enjoys ensuring all content is accurate, clear, and helpful. In her free time, you can find her in the kitchen trying a new recipe, out on a hike, or working through her massive TBR list.

Endnotes and sources

1. “ Desktop vs. Mobile Market Share Worldwide ,” Statcounter. Accessed 27 January, 2023

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Tram in Lisbon, Portugal, internet in europe

How to Get Internet in Europe Without Roaming Fees

Home | Travel | Europe | How to Get Internet in Europe Without Roaming Fees

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Having Internet in Europe is something you’ll want to consider when planning your trip to this diverse continent. Not only will Wi-Fi in Europe help you look up directions and book reservations, but it’ll keep you connected to friends and family back home.

Until a few years ago, roaming in Europe was an expensive service, so if you used the Internet, made calls, or sent texts, you’d rack up a huge bill. However, a few years ago, the European Union passed a law that made data roaming in the EU free for travelers in European Union countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. So, if you’re from any of those countries, you can use your phone’s regular SIM card and enjoy Internet while traveling around Europe.

How to get Internet in Europe without roaming fees

For travelers from the US, the UK, Canada, and other countries, a SIM card for Europe will help you stay connected during your trip. I always use the Holafly eSIM , which is super easy to install since it’s 100% digital. It also provides coverage in over 32 destinations in Europe, as well as unlimited data and 60 minutes of calls made and received within Europe. If you’re interested, be sure to take advantage of our Holafly discount code .

5% OFF your international eSIM card

As you can see, there are different ways to get Internet while traveling , so keep reading to see which option suits you.

Using roaming in Europe

Data roaming in Europe is a service that allows you to have mobile data for surfing the Web, making calls, and sending texts while abroad. This is possible because your telephone company has agreements with different local operators across Europe, so you can stay connected without changing your usual SIM card.

However, this service is super expensive, even if you travel to the cheapest destinations in Europe , so if you use it, you’ll come home to a big phone bill. It’s a much better idea to use an EU pocket Wi-Fi device , a European Wi-Fi hotspot , or a European SIM card. Each of these options will let you have Internet in the EU at a much cheaper price.

As I mentioned, the EU passed a law a few years ago that makes roaming in Europe free between its member countries as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. So, as long as you have a European SIM card , you can use your data throughout the continent, regardless of which country you bought it in, and without being charged extra fees.

Eiffel Tower in France, fastest internet in europe roaming

Using roaming to get Internet in Europe

If you don’t have a SIM card for Europe and want to use data roaming in the EU , I’ll tell you how to do so, but get ready for a hefty phone bill. You should also keep in mind that some European countries aren’t part of this EU law, so if you want to have Internet in Switzerland , or stay connected in Andorra , for example, it’s worth looking for alternative methods.

To clear things up, here is a complete list of the countries included in the EU roaming agreement: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.

The United Kingdom isn’t included in this agreement, but some UK telecom companies don’t charge for roaming in Europe . However, if you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll need to find a solution so you can avoid high roaming charges.

Fortunately, there are several ways to get cheap mobile Internet in Europe , such as the Holafly eSIM for Europe . I’ll share more options below, so keep reading!

How to get Internet in Europe

If you’re coming from the United States, the UK, or any other country not included in the EU roaming agreement, your usual SIM card won’t cover data roaming in Europe . Don’t worry though because I’m sharing the best ways to get Internet in Europe .

1. Holafly eSIM , the best way to get Internet in Europe

First, the Holafly eSIM is the best way to get mobile Internet in Europe . It offers great coverage in over 32 countries, as well as unlimited data. Plus, since it’s totally digital, installation is super easy, and you can even purchase it when you’re already abroad.

To get this eSIM for Europe, you must order it through the Holafly website . Immediately after purchasing it, you’ll receive an email with a QR code that you need to scan to start browsing the Internet. If you have any issues, the Holafly customer service team is available 24 hours a day, so it’s the most convenient option.

This European Internet card is ideal for travelers who don’t have a dual SIM slot on their devices. Since the eSIM is 100% digital, you don’t need to insert it and worry about keeping your original SIM safe while traveling. You can also keep your local number, making this a practical solution for people who need the Internet in Europe for work. Holafly’s European mobile plans with unlimited data also offer 60 minutes to receive calls and 60 minutes to make calls in Europe.

Before buying the international eSIM card , make sure you check your device’s compatibility here . Holafly works with all the latest smartphone models, but it’s always a good idea to check anyway.

We’ve used Holafly in over 10 different countries and have always had excellent coverage, so I highly recommend it if you want to have Internet in the EU . If you decide to get it, make sure you use our 5% discount on Holafly to save money.

2. SimOptions SIM card , another good way to get Internet in the EU

If the Holafly eSIM isn’t compatible with your device, or you prefer a physical card, I recommend the SimOptions SIM card . It offers several different plans at affordable prices, so you can get Wi-Fi in Europe without breaking the bank.

Installing this SIM is simple since you just have to insert it into your device. Of course, if you don’t have a dual SIM slot, you’ll have to remove your usual SIM and store it somewhere safe while you use the European one.

Another nice thing about SimOptions is that they can send the European mobile data SIM card to any part of Europe within 1-3 business days. This means you can have it sent to your hotel so it’s ready for you when you arrive. You can also order it before your trip and have it delivered to your house, but make sure you give yourself ample time since it’ll take up to 72 hours for it to arrive.

Depending on the card you choose, SimOptions can be more expensive than the Holafly eSIM . Also, Holafly offers unlimited Internet in Europe , so it’s my first choice.

3. Local SIM card, a cheap way to get Internet in Europe

For those who are on a budget, there are ways to get cheap mobile Internet in Europe . In this case, you can buy a local SIM card at your destination, as these cards are available in any country.

The downside is that you’ll have to spend time figuring out which option best suits your needs when you arrive at your destination. This involves comparing the different telephone companies and their prices and data plans depending on the first country on your tour.

To give you a head start, I’ll tell you that two of the most popular companies are Orange and Vodafone, which operate in many European countries. You can see an overview of their EU mobile Internet plans and prices below:

In my opinion, buying a local European Internet card can be useful for long trips. However, if it’s a short visit, you don’t want to waste time shopping around and comparing the different offers.

4. Pocket Wi-Fi, another option for using the European Internet

Another practical way to get Internet and data in Europe is by using a portable Wi-Fi device . There are different European pocket Wi-Fi options, such as this mini router , which we use and love. If you work remotely like us, this is the most convenient way to enjoy mobile Wi-Fi in Europe while ensuring a secure, encrypted connection.

Pocket Wi-Fi, unlimited internet europe mobile

You can use EU pocket Wi-Fi even if your device is locked, and you won’t have to risk your information by using a public network. In addition to greater flexibility, having portable Wi-Fi in Europe allows you to connect several devices simultaneously. If you’re traveling as a group, this can work out great and save everyone money, compared to the other European Internet options. Otherwise, you should consider whether the benefits of a pocket Wi-Fi device outweigh their high mobile data plan prices.

5. Public Wi-Fi network, a way to get free Internet in the EU

The last option I’ll mention is using the public Wi-Fi network at hotels, restaurants, and airports during your trip. While you’ll be able to use the Internet in Europe for free , there are definite drawbacks.

Public Wi-Fi network, a way to get free Internet in the EU

For example, the connection isn’t reliable, and may not even be secure, so you’ll risk having your data stolen. Also, the Internet speeds in Europe via public Wi-Fi are much slower since many devices are connected. You may even have a time or data usage limit per day, which can be frustrating. And of course, you’ll only be able to access the Web if you’re in that specific spot, so it’s not ideal for traveling.

If you only need to check your email and messages, then using public Wi-Fi in the EU may suffice. However, for working and staying connected to friends or loved ones, I recommend choosing one of the other options I mentioned, such as an international SIM card or European Wi-Fi router .

How much is roaming in Europe?

If you’re from one of the countries in the EU data roaming agreement, then there is no cost for roaming in Europe . Just go into the Settings menu on your device and make sure Data Roaming is activated.

La Sagrada Familia, internet speed europe by country

How much is Internet in Europe if you roam?

For everyone else, including travelers from the UK or U.S., roaming in the EU could be pretty expensive, so I don’t recommend it. Rather, I suggest going with one of the options I mentioned in this guide, such as a European SIM card or mobile hotspot for Europe .

What is the best way to have Internet in Europe?

Hands down, the best way to have Internet in Europe is by using a European SIM card . If you don’t have one because you’re visiting from outside Europe, then I recommend getting the Holafly eSIM , a virtual SIM card with unlimited data for Europe . If your device isn’t compatible with an eSIM, then a physical card from SimOptions is the best option.

I hope this guide helps you get the best travel Wi-Fi in Europe for your needs and budget. Don’t hesitate to leave me a comment with any questions you have about accessing the Internet in Europe .

Stay safe and have a great European adventure!

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The 7 Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

776 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3126 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

The 7 Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel in 2024

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. a powerful global wi-fi hotspot for use in over 160 countries, 5. compact and capable offering 18 hours of battery life, 6. superfast connectivity in over 135 countries, 7. connect 10 wi-fi enabled devices with this verizon jetpack, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

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 7 Best Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel

GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G LTE Portable WiFi Mobile Hotspot Device for Travel, SIMFREE, No Contract, with US 8GB & Global 1GB Data in...

GlocalMe DuoTurbo 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 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 1.1 GB of global data and 8 GB U.S. 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 Nano 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 Unlocked Mobile WiFi Hotspot | 4G LTE Router | Up to 150Mbps Download Speed | Up to 16 WiFi Connect Devices (For...

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.

RoamWiFi 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot Router, Worldwide Portable High Speed Hotspot with US 10GB & Global 1GB Data 30Day,No SIM Card...

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.

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.

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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How-To Geek

How to get wi-fi on the road.

Going on a road trip? Take your Wi-Fi with you.

Quick Links

Use your smartphone's hotspot function, bring a mobile hotspot, use an obd-ii device, find a public wi-fi connection.

Staying connected when traveling can be tricky if you're not in a hotel , but it's possible. Whether you're on a cross-country road trip or going camping, or even if you just need some Wi-Fi on a long drive, there are ways to stay connected while you're on the road.

Probably the most straightforward solution, your smartphone's hotspot mode can be a lifesaver when it comes to staying connected on the road.

Android and iPhone both make this easy to do, creating a secure local network complete with a password. This method lets you connect other devices (like a laptop, for example) to the network if you have to send a few emails---or if you just want to stream shows on a bigger screen.

Make sure that you're familiar with the limits of your wireless contract before going this route. If you have an unlimited data plan, you'll likely avoid any charges from increased data usage. If you don't, know how long your data will last and plan accordingly. To save power and megabytes, download entertainment to your phone or hard drive before you leave.

Also, check to see whether hotspot data is transmitted at the same speed as your phone. Even if you have a 5G device , your carrier might restrict hotspot (also called "tethered") data to something slower, like 3G.

If you're going this route, you'll definitely need a car charger and/or a power pack to keep your phone's battery life up. Hotspot mode burns through power pretty quickly on most phones.

You can create a similar network to a cellular hotspot with a dedicated mobile hotspot device . It's basically just a router, so you can't browse on one, but it still works if you're using something like a lightweight laptop as your main device and don't have a hotspot-capable phone.

The price for one of these devices can be anywhere from $100 to over $200, and some of them require a monthly service fee. They usually plug into a USB port and can come with an internal battery, making the network that they create more portable.

You'll want to look for something that fits your budget and provides:

fast data speeds
a flexible plan
multiple Wi-Fi options
good battery life
a portable form factor

Portable hotspots can also be great when you're traveling internationally , as they help you avoid massive data roaming charges and might provide faster speeds than the local internet can. Your wireless service provider will likely have one that you can buy, but be sure to shop around to find the best deal.

These devices are different from a typical mobile hotspot in that they don't connect via USB. Instead, they plug into your car's OBD-II port ---the same one that mechanics use to connect a diagnostic tool.

That means that you won't be able to get very far from your car when you're using this device's network. But if you're only planning to use it en route to the campsite or hotel, it shouldn't be an issue.

Since it plugs into the diagnostic port on your car, an OBD-II device can actually broadcast diagnostic information to an app on your smartphone. In addition to a local wireless network, you also get metrics like vehicle-tracking data.

One of these will run you anywhere from $50 to $200, depending on how advanced the device is and what kind of contract you get with it. AT&T , T-Mobile , and Verizon all offer these devices with data plans. Contracts are around $20 and up, usually paid per month.

If none of these is an option or you don't have service, there's always the old standby of public Wi-Fi hotspots. McDonald's, Starbucks, and even big box stores like Target all usually have public Wi-Fi that you can use in a pinch---often while sitting in the parking lot.

If you're unsure of where to find free Wi-Fi near you, apps like NetSpot and Wi-Fi Map offer databases of public hotspots. Even Facebook's app can help you find the closest free network.

If you have to use a public connection, be as safe as possible with your data. Use a VPN if you have one and avoid entering sensitive information or payment details on any websites that you visit.

ExpressVPN is our top VPN pick. It's fast and inexpensive. Many of us at How-To Geek have trusted and used it for years.

Related: What Is a VPN, and Why Would I Need One?

How to Connect to the Internet Abroad in 2024

January 13, 2023

Vera Andrews

An up to date guide on how to connect to the internet abroad.

Your Options For Wifi Abroad

Even when travelling, you need the internet. It’s useful for maps, social media, restaurant recommendations, online tickets, and staying in touch with your family, friends, or co-workers.

Luckily, the era when you would go home to a giant bill is over, and with the new Wi-Fi choices, you can know from the start how much you will pay.

Here are some of the main options you can choose from when looking for wifi on the road. For more detailed information and to compare different options, check out Roami and work out the best way of getting online abroad for you.

An International eSIM or Travel eSIM

One of the simplest ways to reduce internet and mobile costs is to switch to a local carrier. In the past, the only option you had was to buy a prepaid SIM when you arrived at your destination, insert it into your smartphone, and start using the new services.

Today, things are a lot easier with international eSIMs, which are available online. You no longer need to deal with a physical SIM as the eSIM is already built into your device. Instead, you will create an eSIM profile, usually after scanning the QR code provided by the vendor. In just a few minutes, your eSIM for travel will be ready.

One of the biggest advantages offered by eSIMs is that they allow you to store different data plans for different countries. This makes them perfect for travellers hitting multiple destinations, as they can switch from one network provider to another to benefit from the best tariffs.

Moreover, you can store up to 8 eSIMs in your phone, so you can stay in touch with both your loved ones and co-workers through different eSIM providers.

With eSIMs, all your information is stored in a cloud, so if you get your mobile phone stolen or if you lose it, you will still be able to access the phone numbers on your eSIM. This can be a lifeline if you need to meet people or make arrangements at short notice.

However, if your phone stops working, it is more challenging to transfer everything to a new one than with a traditional international SIM card that allows you to swap phones in a minute.

Starting with iPhone 11, all Apple smartphones are compatible with eSIMs, and many Android phones accept them. However, always check if your device works with this option before purchasing one.

A Prepaid SIM Card

A prepaid local SIM card remains one of the most accessible alternatives for mobile internet when your phone doesn’t support an eSIM. Prepaid SIMs are sold at many cellular operator stores and retail stores, and you can almost always find one at the airport.

Once you swap your old SIM with the new one, you can use the new plan that offers you access to the internet, SMS, and calls through one of the local operators. It’s as simple as that.

The disadvantage that comes with a regular SIM is that, unless you have a dual-sim phone, you won’t be able to keep your regular SIM in use. If you have a lot of friends or people at work who will try to reach you while abroad, you need to text them your new contact info, and this can take time.

Important: Check that your phone is unlocked, allowing you to use other SIM cards except the ones provided by your operator. Otherwise, the new SIM card won’t work.

Pocket Wi-Fi

If you need a reliable internet connection and good internet speed, a pocket Wi-Fi, also known as MiFi, mobile hotspot, or internet dongle, is an excellent choice. You can pair this mobile router with a local prepaid SIM to enjoy optimal download and upload speeds on your smartphone without removing your regular SIM. Since you will be carrying it in your pocket, it offers good signal strength and can be a reliable internet option for road trips when you need to keep the maps updated.

Pocket Wi-Fi is usually a more expensive internet option – you don’t pay only for the internet services but for renting the device as well. Some vendors will ship it to you before you start your trip, so shipping taxes are added to the final cost. Also, for some travellers, always checking that they are carrying the device can soon become bothersome. On the plus side, up to four people can join the same mobile device, so it can be useful if you’re travelling as a group.

International Roaming

For many years, international roaming was one of the best alternatives for people travelling abroad, and it remains a good option for those looking to use the same phone number. Often, local carriers offer good roaming plans that include internet access, calls, and SMS for a reasonable price, but it is a good idea to double-check how much it will cost you depending on your destination. Also, consider that some plans come with mobile data caps, which means you will be charged more if you exceed the data limit they impose. And, beware! Some mobile phone providers charge extortionate amounts for data or phone calls and your phone can be churning through data in the background without your realising.

Public Wi-Fi

If your budget is tight, you can resort to public Wi-Fi, but you must consider from the beginning that this option is not without risks.

The great thing about a free wireless network is that you don’t need to pay a penny to access the internet and get in touch with your friends or upload your latest photos on social media.

The not-so-great thing is that hackers can insert themselves between your phone and the network to gain access to your data, including your bank details, credit card numbers, personal info, passwords, and private emails.

The more common problem is that the wifi doesn’t work properly or there simply isn’t any. While many airports, coffee shops and restaurants offer wifi, many don’t and those that do often charge a fee.

Campervan Hire in the UK - Road Trip Cover Image

Living the Nomad Life? Check Out the Most Popular Campervan Wi-Fi Options

Travellers and digital nomads who prefer campervans know that keeping everyone connected to the internet in an RV is not always easy or cheap. Yet, there are a few motorhome Wi-Fi options that can provide internet for multiple devices while on the road:

A pocket Wi-Fi or Mi-Fi device – works with a SIM card and allows you to connect multiple devices to it. You can use a Wi-Fi booster device to extend its coverage area and have good Wi-Fi in any spot of the RV.
A personal Wi-Fi hotspot – turn your smartphone into a Wi-Fi hotspot and connect the devices that need internet to it. It can function as a temporary solution as keeping the hotspot function on all the time quickly runs through your mobile phone’s battery. Unless you are planning on using it as a permanent router, you will want to find something else.
Satellite internet – if you will be travelling extensively through only one country, you can consider buying a satellite antenna and attaching it to your camper. You will enjoy steady internet even in the more remote areas at a very reasonable price. The only downside is that you will need to buy or rent the external antenna, and this adds an extra cost.

See also our article on the best campervan accessories for your next trip here.

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Tech Essentials

The 6 Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots of 2024

These handy devices keep you connected with ease.

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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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Internet In Japan For Tourists: Wifi, Pocket Wifi, SIM Cards, Rental Phones etc

Wifi is plentiful in Japan and there are several good options for cheap and fast data when you’re away from wifi. Here’s a full guide to wifi, pocket wifi and SIM cards in Japan.

The Takeaway

Wifi is widely available in Japan. You’ll find it at hotels, ryokans, cafes, on shinkansen and in airports. In addition, Starbucks offers free wifi for customers (and they’re everywhere).
Many people find that their home phone plan offers an international roaming plan that is reasonably priced and sufficient for their trip, but check with your carrier.
You can buy data-only SIM cards in Japan (but you need an unlocked phone).
You can buy data-only SIM cards online before your trip.
A pocket wifi is a great solution, especially for families and groups. You can order them online and pick them up at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo’s Narita Airport .
For full details on all of this, see below.

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Wifi in Japan

Almost all hotels and ryokan have free wifi. While you’re out, you’ll find it in many restaurants, cafes ( Starbucks has free wifi in every store ), bars and some other public spaces like airports and museums. Wifi in Japan is almost always fast and reliable.

Data-Only SIM Cards in Japan

You can buy data-only SIM cards easily in Japan, at major airports like Narita and Kansai, and at electronics shops in any city. Just be aware that some of these cards have a brief registration process. The safest thing to do is buy them from places that will install the card for you (they can call or log on via another device if there’s a registration process). For details on which SIM to buy and where you can buy one in Tokyo, see our How To Buy A SIM Card In Tokyo page. For Kyoto, see our Where to Buy a SIM Card in Kyoto page. For Osaka, see our SIM Cards in Osaka page.

Starbucks Wifi

Starbucks are all over Japan, with multiple branches in most cities, as well as in airports and train stations. They all offer free wifi to their customers.

Pocket Wifi Rental

A great way to stay online wherever go in Japan is a pocket wifi. These are a great option for families or groups, since everyone can log onto the same unit. They’re usually fast and they offer more data than a SIM card. You can rent one from counters in the arrivals halls of major airports like Narita and Kansai. You can also easily rent a pocket wifi device with unlimited data online and it will be waiting for you at the airport.

International Roaming Rates in Japan

In case all of the above is just too confusing to deal with, you can always just bring your smartphone with you to Japan and pay international roaming rates to use it in Japan. If you’ve got the right carrier, you might be able to purchase an international add-on that allows some calls, texts and data usage for a surprisingly reasonable rate. For details on American, British and Australian carriers’ roaming rates in Japan, see our International Roaming Rates for Japan page on our sister site TrulyTokyo.com.

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

Central Kyoto
Northwest Kyoto
Northern Higashiyama
Southern Higashiyama
Downtown Kyoto
Kyoto Station Area
South East Kyoto

Disclosure: InsideKyoto.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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The Best RV Internet Options for 2024

Tips for staying connected when you’re traveling around the country.

Price: $264.00

Generous data plan
5G connection

Bearifi BearExtender Wi-Fi Extender Antenna

Price: $59.97 †
Windows-only compatibility
Price: $150.00.mo.*
Nationwide coverage
In-motion use option

An RV gives you a lot of freedom and flexibility. It’s a low-cost way to travel, so you can visit friends and family and take all your stuff with you. While you can get basic utilities at a full hookup, it’s not always easy finding reliable Wi-Fi out on the road. Here’s a look at some of the best internet solutions for RV owners.

Jump to : How to pick your internet | Specs and features | Considerations | FAQ

How to pick your internet
Specs and features
Considerations

Best internet options for RVs

Data effective 2/6/2024. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

*Plus hardware, shipping & handling fees, and tax. Fully refundable. Depending on location, some orders may take 6 months or more to fulfill.

† See full disclaimer

How to pick the right internet solution for your RV

There’s not just one thing you can do with an RV, which means there’s not just one best option for RV internet. Depending on the frequency of your trips, how long you stay in one spot, your destination, and the way you use the internet, there are several solutions that can help you stay connected to the rest of the world.

Mobile hotspots —If you’re often on the road and want a reliable internet connection you can take with you, a dedicated mobile hotspot is a flexible and affordable choice. Much like cell phones, hotspots require their own SIM card and data plan, so there is a long-term cost to plan for.

Wi-Fi extender —If your usual destination is an RV park or other sites with public Wi-Fi, you may not need to invest in a device with its own data plan. Wi-Fi extenders are designed to help you pick up weak or distant Wi-Fi signals, allowing you to get better reception when connecting to these public networks.

Portable 4G internet service —For those who think of their RV as a second home (or even their first), you probably want a reliable internet connection that gives you all the comforts of home. Portable 4G LTE plans can deliver reliable broadband speeds while not requiring a fixed address like home 4G plans.

Mobile satellite internet —Starlink recently released Starlink Roam, its new portable satellite system that replaces previous programs like Starlink Portable and Starlink RV. With a satellite connection, Starlink Roam offers a reliable connection, even in the most remote parts of the U.S. and offers higher speeds than 4G connections. It also allows in-motion use of the system, though this feature requires very expensive equipment.

Other helpful resources for RV internet

4G LTE Internet Providers
Best Mobile Hotspots
Best Hotspot Data Plans
Rural Internet Providers

Download speeds on 4G networks depend both on which network you use and where you’re trying to use it. Because of this variation mobile internet providers often advertise “4G speeds” without giving actual numbers. 4G connections have average speeds of 28–35 Mbps, though this can be lower in more remote areas. 1

Best for weekend trips—T-Mobile Inseego 5G MiFi M2000

Wireless connection: 5G (mmWave, C-band, sub–6GHz), 4G LTE
Support for up to 32 Wi-Fi enabled devices

If you like to get out of town on the weekends to see new places, you’re going to need a simple and flexible internet solution. Mobile hotspots work much like a phone, connecting wirelessly to a provider’s cellular network. The hotspot then broadcasts a local Wi-Fi network you can use on your computers, tablets, and other devices just as you would at home.

The T-Mobile Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G has a lot of features that can make your weekend trips easier to manage. It features a 5G connection, but can also make use of 4G networks as a backup. The MiFi X PRO 5G also uses Wi-Fi 6. This allows you to connect loads of devices without your network slowing.

The MiFi X PRO 5G exclusively uses the T-Mobile network, which can be limiting in areas where other providers have better coverage. Fortunately, you can also find hotspots that use other networks—or even allow you to choose your preferred network for your data plan.

5G Compatibility
Multiple device support
Only T-Mobile network
Limited 5G availability

Data as of 2/6/2024. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Best mobile hotspots

Data as of 5/26/2022. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

* See full disclaimer

Best for RV parks—Bearifi BearExtender Wi-Fi Extender Antenna

Price: $59.97*

Multiple mounting options
Single-computer use
USB powered

Although not all sites with full hookups offer public Wi-Fi as they do with other utilities like water, sewer, and electricity, it’s becoming pretty easy to find at big campgrounds like KOA. Plus, fast food chains, libraries, and many other locations offer free Wi-Fi you can access.

The hard part about relying on public Wi-Fi is getting a strong signal. Wi-Fi extenders allow you to boost your wireless range to connect to Wi-Fi even if you didn’t get a prime spot next to the transmitter.

The Bearifi BearExtender Wi-Fi Extender Antenna is one of the most affordable models out there, so you don’t need to break your bank just to stay connected.

It’s worth noting that this type of extender is different from the Wi-Fi extenders you use at home to boost the range of your router . Instead, the BearExtender allows your computer to pick up Wi-Fi signals from farther away.

Inexpensive
Windows only
One device only

Best Wi-Fi extenders

Best for internet enthusiasts—starlink roam, price: $150.00/mo.*.

Speeds up to 100Mbps
Nationwide Coverage
1 TB data cap

Starlink Roam allows Starlink customers to take their dish with them and connect to the internet wherever they go. Starlink Roam comes in either a regional plan that costs $150 per month or a global plan that costs $200 per month. You can also get in-motion service with Starlink Roam, although this requires not only using Starlink’s new Flat High Performance equipment, which will set you back $2,500, but upgrading to a Priority Mobile data plan, which starts at $250 per month for 50 GB of priority data. While this is a pretty significant investment, in-motion use means not only having reliable internet when you get to your destination, but also while driving.

Although the monthly cost is expensive for an internet plan, it’s actually on par with many mobile 4G plans while offering much higher speeds. The biggest barrier for new customers is the upfront equipment cost. Standard Starlink equipment has a one-time cost of $599, while the Flat High Performance equipment needed for in-motion use costs $2,500.

Starlink Roam isn’t the best choice for everyone, but for a very specific use case, it can be a game-changer. If you need fast, reliable internet while you’re driving across the country, no other provider can match the experience that Starlink Roam offers. If, however, a fast connection on the highway isn’t worth investing several thousand dollars, there are much cheaper options that can get you by with less.

Widest possible coverage
High data cap
High upfront equipment costs
Delays in equipment delivery

Data as of 3/29/2023. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Best portable 4G LTE / satellite internet

Data as of 11/8/2023. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Internet considerations for RV owners

Getting reliable wireless internet in an RV depends on two things: data caps and coverage areas. You can also avoid paying for a data plan altogether if you’re willing to limit yourself to using just public Wi-Fi.

Which option is worth the cost depends on how much use you get out of your internet plan. You don’t want to pay a monthly bill for a data plan you never use, but you also don’t want to limit where you can go just to stick close to an internet connection.

Connections with a 4G data plan

Using a device with a 4G data plan is extremely flexible, allowing you to connect to the internet anywhere with cell service. Many 4G devices also give you the option to choose the wireless carrier for your data plan. AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile all have nationwide networks, though their coverage can be more spotty in remote areas.

If you spend a lot of time visiting national parks or rural areas, you might want to consult major providers’ websites to see which one best covers the areas you visit. In more urban areas, all three providers have near 100% coverage, so it’s usually safe to choose the most affordable option. 2

Dealing with data caps

The biggest difference in cost between wireless data plans comes down to data. Although you can save money by choosing a plan with less data, it’s surprisingly easy to burn through an entire month’s worth of data in just a few days if you streama lot of video. We suggest going with an unlimited data plan if you have the option. While more expensive, they’re much cheaper than dealing with overage fees.

If you head out in your RV only on weekends, it’s possible to get by on a cheaper plan with less data. If you choose a plan with limited data, you should know how much data you typically use. You definitely don’t save any money paying for overage charges.

Campground Wi-Fi

Many campgrounds, including big chains like KOA, offer public Wi-Fi. Connecting to campground Wi-Fi instead of using your own connection can help you save mobile or hotspot data. It can also give you faster speeds and a more stable connection, especially if you’re using a Wi-Fi extender.

If you don’t have an extender, make the most of your Wi-Fi connection by picking a spot near the transmitter that doesn’t have any major obstructions like trees that block line of sight.

Campgrounds aren’t the only places you can get public Wi-Fi. These offer connections too:

Coffee shops
Fast-food restaurants
National Park Visitor Centers
Truck stops

In many of these places, the Wi-Fi is designed to cover only the people inside the building, so you either need to park really close or have a good Wi-Fi extender to pick up the signal. For more ideas on connecting to public Wi-Fi, check out our guide on how to find Wi-Fi hotspots .

Our verdict

For RV internet, we suggest going with the cheapest option that meets your needs. For most people, a hotspot like the T-Mobile Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G is probably the best option, as hotspots are relatively affordable and work in a lot of locations. If you spend most of your time in locations that offer Wi-Fi, you might be able to get by with just a good Wi-Fi extender, while full-time RVers might need a more reliable option like a portable 4G internet plan or Starlink’s Roam.

Internet for RVs FAQ

Can you get internet in an rv.

There are lots of ways to get internet in your RV. Basically any service that is both wireless and portable will work in an RV, though some work better than others.

What is the best RV internet?

The best internet for RVs is a reliable portable wireless option, like Starlink Roam or portable 4G internet , like Ubifi. It gives you the fastest and most reliable connection, with many options for unlimited data. There are also less expensive options for those who don’t use their RVs as often.

What do full-time RVers do for internet?

If you live in your RV full time, you want a reliable internet connection like portable 4G internet . It’s more expensive than 4G home internet plans, but it gives you similar speeds and reliability while allowing you to take your Wi-Fi with you wherever you go.

Starlink Roam also offers portable internet connections that will even work in remote areas with no cellular signal. Starlink Roam offers higher speeds than you can get with 4G, but comes with a much higher upfront equipment cost.

Francesco Rizzato, Opensignal, “ Mobile Network Experience Report ,” July 2021. Accessed February 28, 2022.
Francesco Rizzato, Opensignal, “ Mobile Network Experience Report ,” January 2022. Accessed February 28, 2022.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. HighSpeedInternet.com utilizes paid Amazon links.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED ‘AS IS’ AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Author - Peter Christiansen

Peter Christiansen writes about satellite internet, rural connectivity, livestreaming, and parental controls for HighSpeedInternet.com. Peter holds a PhD in communication from the University of Utah and has been working in tech for over 15 years as a computer programmer, game developer, filmmaker, and writer. His writing has been praised by outlets like Wired, Digital Humanities Now, and the New Statesman.

Editor - Rebecca Lee Armstrong

Rebecca Lee Armstrong has more than six years of experience writing about tech and the internet, with a specialty in hands-on testing. She started writing tech product and service reviews while finishing her BFA in creative writing at the University of Evansville and has found her niche writing about home networking, routers, and internet access at HighSpeedInternet.com. Her work has also been featured on Top Ten Reviews, MacSources, Windows Central, Android Central, Best Company, TechnoFAQ, and iMore.

person using laptop while on a video call

Internet in Japan for tourists – 7 ways to have Internet when traveling to Japan

Japan is an awesome place to spend your vacation and I’m happy you have chosen to go there. With its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and beautiful sights, it’s no wonder you choose it. However, one thing that visitors often worry about is how they will stay connected to the internet while they are traveling, especially in a country where they don’t speak the language.

We were as worried as you were before we left. We were very aware of how different it would be from anything else we have ever seen before, and I can safely tell you it didn’t disappoint. Back then, there weren’t that many options to get internet in Japan for tourists: you could either rent a pocket WiFi or get a SIM card. Fortunately, nowadays Japan has a wide range of internet options available for travelers.

We choose the SIM card, after careful consideration, but you’ll have to analyze your situation as well. In the meantime, we have also used an eSIM for other trips we went on and used our roaming for some trips as well. Having tried so many options is very helpful now when trying to compare them and see what would work best for your upcoming Japan trip.

Yes, it’s true guys, there might be affiliate links in this awesome, free post. This means that if you decide to buy something that you find here, and you use one of my links to do so, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I plan to use this money on ice cream, chocolate, and to travel more so I can write these useful guides for you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Internet in japan – options overview.

For people traveling around Japan, there are several options available for internet access. I’ll describe all of them in short below, and you can find a more detailed description for each of them as well.

Rent a Pocket WiFi

Renting a pocket WiFi device is one of the most popular options for tourists in Japan. It provides fast and unlimited internet access for up to 5 devices at one time. Rental kiosks are located at all major airports and hotels, and the process is quick and easy. The device is battery-powered and can be used on the go, making it convenient for travelers who need to stay connected while exploring the country.

Get an International Pocket Wi-Fi

If you travel often and you always wonder how are you going to manage without internet abroad, then an international pocket Wi-Fi is probably the solution for you. Solis Wi-Fi offers you an internet connection in many areas of the world, and you don’t have to think about this every time you have to go to a new place.

Buy a SIM Card

Another option for travelers is to purchase a SIM card for their mobile device. This is a good option for those who prefer to use their own device and do not need internet access for multiple devices. SIM cards can be purchased at major airports, train stations, convenience stores, vending machines, and online. Some popular providers include Mobal, IIJmio Japan Travel SIM, Bic SIM, and Docomo.

Contents of a Japanese SIM card pack - one of the ways to get internet in Japan for tourists

Use an eSIM

The spread of eSIMs is becoming more and more useful lately, as people are starting to realize we can use our phones for way more than WhatsApp and the likes. Hell, I even have a (mostly) online bank account! eSIMs are basically a simpler way to get internet where you need it when you need it. If this option would have been available when we were visiting Japan, it would have been our winner option for sure.

Use Free WiFi Hotspots

Free WiFi hotspots are available in many places in Japan, including airports, train stations, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and convenience stores. Some major providers of free WiFi hotspots include Japan Wi-Fi Autoconnect , Travel Japan Wi-Fi , and Free Wi-Fi Passport . You can connect to these hotspots by registering online or installing a mobile app.

Rent a Phone

For tourists who need a phone in addition to internet access, renting a smartphone is a good option. Rental phones can be found at major airports and hotels, and they typically come with a data plan and a local phone number. Prices vary depending on the provider and the phone model, but they typically start at around ¥1,000 per day. One company that does this is SoftBank , and they provide a wide array of services.

Use your own device and internet

Depending on where you’re coming from, you might have decent connectivity and acceptable prices. As an example, if you’re living within Europe and traveling in the European Union, you sometimes have better options if you just use your national SIM and add a roaming offer on top of it. This applies in Asian countries as well, so check out this option before you decide.

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Japanese pocket wifi devices, pocket wi-fi.

✅ Supports multiple devices

✅ Unlimited options available

✅ Great speed

Check prices and availability

One of the most popular ways to stay connected in Japan is through Pocket WiFi devices. These devices are portable WiFi routers that allow users to connect to the internet from anywhere in Japan, as long as there is a cellular signal. While the options you can choose from are quite a few, you will probably end up choosing based on price, delivery options, and customer reviews.

How to Rent a Pocket WiFi Device in Japan

There are several companies that offer pocket WiFi rentals in Japan. Some of the most popular ones include Ninja Wi-Fi (I know, this name…), SoftBank, and JR Pass . These companies offer different plans with varying data allowances, rental periods, and prices. Most of them offer unlimited data plans, which are ideal for heavy internet users.

While you can rent a pocket WiFi device from rental kiosks located at major airports in Japan, my advice is to make a reservation online and have the device delivered straight to your hotel or collect it upon arrival. While some of them do offer the option to be delivered to your home, you might have a hard time finding one that does, so be aware that you’ll need to find a way without an internet connection upon landing.

Benefits of Using Pocket WiFi Devices in Japan

Pocket WiFi devices offer several benefits to tourists traveling to Japan. Some of these benefits include:

Pocket WiFi devices are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around while traveling.
Most pocket WiFi devices offer high-speed internet connectivity, allowing users to stream videos, make video calls, and browse the web without any lag.
Most pocket WiFi devices allow multiple devices to connect to the internet simultaneously, making it ideal for families or groups of friends traveling together.
Pocket WiFi devices are cost-effective compared to other options like roaming or buying a local SIM card, especially if traveling in a group.

Disadvantages when using a pocket Wi-Fi

If in a group, you’ll have to stay together all the time, as the device is proximity based.
You need to be aware of one more device to keep charged and safe.
You have to collect and return it right upon arrival and right before leaving. This might make planning a bit challenging, depending on your arrival and departure times.
If you don’t usually use a lot of data, you might pay more than you need.

Tips for Using Pocket WiFi Devices in Japan

Here are some tips for you when using your pocket WiFi devices in Japan:

Charge the device regularly: Make sure to charge the device regularly to avoid any interruptions in internet connectivity.
Carry a power bank: Carry a power bank to charge the device on the go, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods.
Check the coverage: Check the coverage of the device before renting it to ensure that it covers the areas you plan to visit.
Return the device on time: Make sure to return the device on time to avoid any additional charges.

Overall, pocket WiFi devices are an excellent option to get internet in Japan for travelers who want to stay connected to the internet. They offer high-speed internet connectivity, portability, and cost-effectiveness. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can easily rent and use pocket WiFi devices in Japan.

One of the most used companies for this is Ninja Wi-Fi , and another one would be JR Pass Wi-Fi . The latter can be booked together with your JR Pass (check out my detailed post about using the train in Japan for more information), and it’s a convenient way to combine two needs in one go. Also, if you book this pocket Wi-Fi or the JR Pass with my link, I’ll send you my Japan Map Collection for free!

If you’re buying any JR Pass product with my affiliate link, whether it is a train pass , a portable Wi-Fi , or the Meet & Greet package, send me a copy of your receipt at [email protected] and you’ll get my Japan Map Collection entirely for free!

International Pocket WiFi Devices

Solis - SkyRoam - wifi in over 100 countries

Solis Wi-Fi

✅ Pay as you go

✅ No pick-up needed

For people who prefer to have access to the internet at all times, international pocket WiFi devices are a great option. These devices allow travelers to have their own WiFi hotspot that can be used anywhere in the world, not only in Japan, without having to rely on public WiFi or purchasing a local SIM card.

International pocket WiFi devices can be bought online before arriving in Japan. The most popular provider is Solis Wi-Fi , as it has been on the market for a very long time already. I have a coupon code you can use for a 15% discount, check it out below!

Use my Solis discount code to get 15% off!

One advantage of using an international pocket Wi-Fi device is that you can pay as you go, so there’s no left-over data at the end of your trip, or you don’t have to estimate before you leave how much data you’re going to need.

Another advantage is that you will have coverage from the moment you leave the aircraft until you go back home. You don’t have to worry about pickup times, finding your way through a crowded airport, or going early enough to return it.

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However, it’s important to note that international pocket WiFi devices can be more expensive than other options, such as purchasing a local SIM card. Additionally, the speed and reliability of the internet connection can vary depending on the provider and location. In the end, they’re using the connections available in the cellular network, so they cannot guarantee the best coverage for the whole world really.

In short, international pocket WiFi devices can be a convenient and reliable alternative to Japanese pocket Wi-Fi devices for people who need constant access to the internet during their travels in Japan. It offers a wide range of advantages so you might want to look into it as well.

Rental Smartphones

Rental Smartphone

✅ Calls and text available

✅ Great in case of emergency

✅ Can be used as hotspot

For tourists who need to stay connected via data and voice during their stay in Japan, renting a smartphone is a convenient option. SoftBank Global Rental offers rental smartphones with voice and text capabilities, as well as data plans for internet access. If you’re the kind of person that actually calls instead of texting, this solution might be for you.

The rental fee for a smartphone is ¥550 per day, with an additional fee for data telecommunication that ranges from ¥0 to ¥990 per day, depending on the plan (at the moment of writing this blog post, of course). SoftBank Global Rental’s website offers a variety of smartphone models to choose from, including the latest models from Apple and Samsung, and a detailed overview of their voice and data plans.

I even heard of hotels that offer you this option as part of their services. This is a really cool option, as you won’t have to stress over the pickup and return dates and places, and you can ask the personnel about anything that might be unclear to you. The challenge here is to find these hotels, as there’s really no filter for “offers rental smartphones” on Booking or Agoda. Believe me, I checked.

One advantage of renting a smartphone is that it allows you to stay connected with a real phone number, thus allowing for voice calls as well. This means that you don’t have to change any settings on your phone to use the rental phone.

Another advantage of renting a smartphone is that it provides access to voice and text capabilities, which may be useful in emergency situations or for making reservations at restaurants or hotels that do not accept online bookings.

In summary, renting a smartphone can be a convenient option for people who need to stay connected during their stay in Japan. With a variety of smartphone models and data plans to choose from, renting a smartphone can eliminate the need to purchase a SIM card or rent a pocket WiFi device. It also provides voice and text capabilities for emergency situations or making reservations.

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✅ Probably the cheapest option

✅ Various options available

✅ Can be used by 2 people

Purchasing a SIM card is one of the best options for staying connected to the internet when heading to Japan. SIM cards offer a reliable and fast internet connection without the hassle of finding Wi-Fi hotspots or renting pocket Wi-Fi devices. They usually offer a cheaper alternative too, as they’re designed to be used by one person only (read more to find out how you can share it).

There are several providers of SIM cards in Japan, including Mobal, IIJmio Japan Travel SIM, Bic SIM, and Docomo. Mobal offers SIM cards for short stays of 8, 16, or 31 days with an unlimited data plan. They also offer voice and data plans, and you can even have the SIM delivered to you before leaving. They deliver in quite a lot of countries, a really cool feature to rely on if you’re worried about arriving at the destination and feeling lost without internet availability.

Japanese SIM card pack for 3.5 Gb, valid for 15 days.

It is important to note that not all smartphones are compatible with Japanese SIM cards, so you should check with your phone provider or manufacturer to ensure the device is compatible before purchasing a SIM card. If buying online, you can of course ask the provider before you make a decision.

One advantage of using Japanese SIM cards , apart from the price, is that you don’t have to carry a separate device with you, and you don’t have to worry about returning it. Once you buy it, from either a store or a vending machine, you have it set up for the rest of your trip.

On the other side, you won’t be able to use your phone for WhatsApp or calls if you use it for this SIM. What we did was to use an older phone of ours to make a hotspot with this SIM, but this way we had to keep one more device with us anyway. The device used as a hotspot will need recharging often, so have a power bank with you at all times.

One more disadvantage is that usually SIM cards have limited data of about 2-4 Gb, which might not be enough for some people. For us, it was OK, as we mostly used it for navigation, translating texts here and there, and limited usage for messages and similar communication. We didn’t use it to scroll on Instagram or watch Youtube videos, but only for necessities.

Another reason why this might not be a good fit for you is if you’re traveling in a bigger group. In this case, your speed will be really diminished, as a mobile device transformed into a hotspot cannot really hold too many connections. You’ll also have to stay together at all times, as you’ll depend on this single point of contact.

Overall, purchasing a SIM card in Japan is a great option for people who need a reliable and fast internet connection, travel in a small group or alone, and are a bit on a budget. It is important to research providers and pricing options prior to purchasing a SIM card, but you will probably get a better deal than other options in any case.

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✅ Very good pricing

✅ Easy setup before you leave

As I said, this was not really an option when we went there, as we would have chosen it for sure otherwise. We did use this option on our last trip to Dubai though, so I can speak from experience that it was extremely easy and convenient to use, and we’ll probably use this option more often in the future.

eSIMs are a newer technology that allows you to download a virtual SIM card onto your phone, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. So without having to find a store, open your phone, and tinker with the settings (OK, there’s some tinkering involved, but not a lot really), you’ll have an internet connection on your phone right upon landing.

There are several eSIM providers on the market right now, AirAlo and DrimSIM being two of them. We used AirAlo in the Emirates and it was extremely easy to use and affordable. Plus, by the time we reached the immigration offices, we had already managed to have it running. This was extremely helpful as we landed at 10 PM, and we didn’t have to spend hours researching for the best SIM card from all the options available on the market.

Contents of the SIM card pack we bought in Japan. Having a SIM card is an easy way to have internet while in Japan.

It’s important to note that not all phones are compatible with eSIM technology. Before purchasing an eSIM plan, make sure that your phone is eSIM compatible. Both sites offer a list of devices that are compatible, and you can find their detailed coverage as well. Both cover Japan and many other options, so check them out and decide what’s best for you.

When comparing SIMs and eSIMs, I would say that SIMs are probably cheaper, but this depends greatly on the plans you manage to find for the destination. Otherwise, having the eSIM already set up before you leave will give you peace of mind, as you’ll know you’ll be ready to enjoy your vacation right upon landing.

One other thing to keep in mind: if you’re traveling in a group and you might want to split from time to time, both SIMs and eSIMs are the best solutions you have. In very rare cases 2 SIMs or eSIMs will cost more than a pocket Wi-Fi, and buying 2 pocket Wi-Fi routers for these cases is not cost-effective at all.

Overall, eSIMs are a convenient and cost-effective option for tourists visiting Japan. With several providers to choose from (and probably many more to come) and a range of pricing options, it’s easy to find a plan that suits your needs.

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International roaming

✅ You keep your phone number

I know, this is rarely a good option, but I had to mention it. Especially if you’re coming from other Asian countries, talk to your provider about the roaming offers they can make. You might be surprised by what they can manage to offer you. And in the end, if you don’t like it, you don’t have to take it. You can always choose one of the other options listed here.

If you manage to pull this off, it’s easy to see that you’ll have an easy life. You’ll just use your phone as you would at home, making your trip quite relaxing really. In addition, you can try a few of the tips I’ll mention below to reduce the data consumption, so you don’t end up being overcharged by your provider either.

Free WiFi Hotspots

✅ Decent coverage in tourist areas

✅ Easy to use

Yes, there’s also a free option. Fortunately, Japan offers many free WiFi hotspots across the country, and if you’re really on a shoestring budget, this can be a realistic option for you as well. In addition to the obviously free options you have at your hotel, at Starbucks, or in train stations and malls, you also have some hotspots available only in Japan.

One of the most popular options is the Free WiFi Passport offered by SoftBank. The other 2 most commonly used are Japan Wi-Fi Autoconnect and Travel Japan Wi-Fi . Between all of these options, you might even have better coverage than you might expect.

It’s important to note that some free WiFi hotspots may require registration or have time limits. Additionally, you should be aware of the security risks involved in using free Wi-Fi, so keep this in mind if this is the route you want to take. Check out my post about keeping your valuables safe while traveling , and you’ll know what I’m talking about!

If you’re worried that this might not be enough for you, check out the tips below on how to limit the data you NEED while in Japan. Notice I said NEED, and not WANT. If you want to post on Instagram every few hours or need access to your email, check out other solutions for your needs.

This option though is not for the faint of heart. If you’re that person that googles everything or panics when they get lost (it will happen while in Japan, I can guarantee you), then use one of the other ways to have internet. You won’t feel comfortable not having access to it, and being stressed while visiting Japan is not a good way to enjoy it.

Also, you need to stay on the usual, touristy path. You won’t be able to use this method if you plan to go somewhere more remote, as you might not have these internet “bubbles” in the wild. Still, have a way to contact other people, in case of an emergency. Even if you have the cheapest voice plan or a pay-as-you-go option that you won’t pay for if you don’t use it, it’s better to be able to contact people and not need to than the other way around.

All of the above

I bet you didn’t see this one coming. But in life, it’s great to find shades of grey, as nothing is really white or black. Especially if traveling with children, you might want to get both a pocket Wi-Fi and a SIM or eSIM. As a family, you can all use a pocket Wi-Fi , but your children might use a SIM or eSIM in case they get lost. The same applies if they’re big enough to also wander on their own.

Instead of buying 2 pocket Wi-Fi devices, combining the options above is a great way to limit costs while offering maximum flexibility for your needs. Especially when it comes to eSIMs, you can really buy it on the spot, when you see the need for it. Keep this idea in mind if traveling to Japan in a group or if you need more flexibility in general.

How to use less data while in Japan?

If you choose the free Wi-Fi option or any of the low-cost ones, you’ll probably be limited in the amount of data you can use. Over the course of 2 weeks, we used the 3.5 Gb together, and it was enough for our needs. But I can tell you that without these little tricks, we wouldn’t have been able to.

First, use offline maps, this awesome feature of Google Maps. I cannot even start to explain to you how helpful this will be. On your mobile device, open the GoogleMaps app, tap on your name in the upper-right corner, and go to Offline Maps. Then, Select your own map, and voila, you have them offline. Do this for all the cities you are going to visit. Spare your memory by not getting the whole country though, as it’s really not needed.

If you want to have even better maps, check out my Japan map collection containing all the maps you might need while there, full of things to do and grouped by days, so you spend less time on trains and busses and more time enjoying the place. Or, better yet, get my Japan Travel Guide altogether, and plan your trip as easy as saying “Konnichiwa!”

Want to have a helpful resource to make your planning efforts not only easier but also more enjoyable? Check out my Japan Travel Guide from the shop!

OK, the ad break is over. The next way to use less data while traveling in Japan is to download the Japanese language offline in Google Translate. Open your Google Translate app, go to Settings in the lower-right corner, and select Offline Translation. Add the Japanese language and voila, now you have languages as well. You can tell I live close to France, can’t you?

Unfortunately, this option is not available in DeepL, my favorite tool for translations. It absolutely does a better job than Google Translate for the languages I care about, but it doesn’t have ALL the languages in the world like Google does, and it doesn’t have this offline download feature. Keep it in mind though, for your future needs, it’s extremely accurate and is evolving quite a lot. I have checked with German, French, Romanian, and English and the results are amazing!

And the last tip to limit internet expenses while in Japan is to use the internet you pay for only to do important things like navigation and translation, not for social media and video watching. Between all the free Wi-Fi options and the things you went to Japan to see, you should really spend your time enjoying the place and not posting about it online.

You will have internet available at the hotel and on public transportation anyway, so use these places for the heavier tasks you need to do online. While you’re paying for the internet, when using limited data, focus on things you need it for. You’ll see that you can survive with 2 Gb of data for a long time if you’re aware of these tips.

How can tourists get internet in Japan?

Tourists usually get internet in Japan by getting a SIM card or renting a pocket WiFi, but there are other options available as well. It is recommended to get these before arriving in Japan to avoid any inconvenience.

What are the options for internet access in Japan?

The options for internet access in Japan are SIM cards, eSIMs, pocket WiFi, and free Wi-Fi hotspots. Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages, so check each of them to see what fits best for you.

Can foreign phones use Japanese WiFi?

Yes, foreign phones can use Japanese WiFi. In most cases, you won’t have to do anything else than what you do at home to connect to a network.

Is it necessary to get a pocket WiFi in Japan?

It is not necessary to get pocket WiFi in Japan as there are plenty of ways to get internet in Japan for tourists. While free WiFi hotspots are available in many public places, they may not always be reliable or fast, so other paid options can be helpful as well.

Are there free WiFi options for tourists in Japan?

Yes, there are free WiFi options for tourists in Japan. Many hotels, cafes, trains, and malls offer free WiFi. Softbank also offers two weeks of free WiFi from 400,000 hotspots nationwide through their Free Wi-Fi Passport program.

What are the best pocket WiFi providers in Japan?

There are several pocket WiFi providers in Japan, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most popular providers include Japan Ninja Wi-Fi and JR Pass pocket Wi-Fi. It is recommended to compare prices and features before choosing a provider.

Internet in Japan for tourists – The takeaway

Staying connected to the internet while traveling in Japan is essential for anyone, I can say that for sure. Luckily, Japan is one of the most advanced countries in the world when it comes to technology, so this won’t be an issue. There are several options available, including SIM cards, pocket Wi-Fi devices, and free Wi-Fi hotspots. Between all of these options mentioned in the post, you’ll just have to decide what’s best for you.

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Technology, Devices, And The Internet In Costa Rica: Tips For Travel

Home » Safety and Practicalities » Internet, Technology, and Electronic Devices » Technology, Devices, And The Internet In Costa Rica: Tips For Travel

Last updated on June 19th, 2019 at 05:22 pm GMT-6 (Costa Rica time)

Written by Nikki Solano

Get the Costa Rica info you need by browsing our article's TABLE OF CONTENTS:

TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS IN COSTA RICA AND HOW IT WILL AFFECT YOUR TRIP

Technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: plug in, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: stay charged, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: tap in, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: visit, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: view, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: rent, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: purchase, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: protect, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: download, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: connect, technology, devices, and the internet in costa rica: back-up.

Remember when vacationing meant leaving work behind? Gone are the days when job responsibilities could be shelved for a weekend, a week, or longer (if you were lucky), allowing us to pull our plug from the energy-sucking work outlets we are seemingly always connected to. With each cell phone we carry, wi-fi connection available to tap into, and social media account screaming at us for attention, it is next to impossible nowadays to leave “it” all behind and truly get away.

Life in Costa Rica is not much different. Sure, a large percentage of the country is underdeveloped (or just-the-right-amount-developed depending on who you ask), but many of the world’s technological advances are present and accessible in this geographically tiny, yet surprisingly tech-savvy second-world nation. I am reminded of this every time I receive an instant message from my preteen niece sent through the communication application WhatsApp, or when I watch my 8 year old nephew conquer games on his tablet at lightning speeds and with a proficiency in playing that suggests he has been practicing for years. Internet cafes in popular tourist towns that target international travellers, and phone-in-ear businessmen and businesswomen roaming the San Jose metropolis, suggest that the country is heading in a technologically-progressive direction; for the benefit of visitors and residents alike.

If you are considering a trip to Costa Rica, or you are just about to embark on one, keep our comments below in mind. The information provided will help you prepare for your trip appropriately by informing you of the technological progress the country has made, and our tips can aid in minimizing challenges encountered throughout your travels.

Costa Rican properties utilize the same 120V 60Hz electrical sockets that are found in the USA and Canada (accepting two-prong flat connector plugs as well as three-prong connector plugs including an earth connector). Some older properties offer only two-prong sockets, however newer and renovated builds are typically equipped with modern three-prong sockets (ideal for laptop cables).

If the hotel you are staying at offers two-prong sockets in the bedroom (or living room, if your room is a suite), check the bathroom for a three-prong socket. Some older properties will include one three-prong socket per unit, and nearly every time we searched for one, we have found it in the bathroom.

Vacationing in any country (Costa Rica included) often requires long travel days, and, in some unfortunate cases, unanticipated travel delays. If your device’s battery life is limited, consider bringing additional power sources with you during the trip. This can include a spare laptop battery, or ideally, a lightweight, travel-size mobile power bank that can connect to your cell phone or tablet. Given that we are constantly at work while on the move, additional power sources for our devices help us avoid lost communication with travellers and unsaved blog post articles resulting from our devices shutting down unexpectedly. As vacationers, you may not be under the same work demands that we are when travelling throughout Costa Rica, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have an interest in using your devices during your trip. Perhaps you like to keep a travel journal and write whenever your trip itinerary provides you with some downtime. Or, you have kids who are far more content on bus/van rides when they have electronic games, television shows, movies, or music to keep them entertained. Regardless of your reasons for using your devices, if they are important enough to bring to Costa Rica, planning ahead and packing a back-up power source can be the difference between you using your devices when you need to use them, and you regretfully wishing you could.

My sister and brother-in-law have one of the best iPhone case inventions I have come across to date. The case itself contains a battery separate from the one included with the device. When the phone is plugged in and charging, the case is charging too. This way, when the phone battery dies, the case’s battery storage can be enabled to offer additional device life. Since most devices are used with a protective case to begin with, picking up a case that has the ability to accept, maintain, and deliver a charge is a great way to extend your reach of device power, and avoid the inevitable I left my power bank back at the hotel scenario the moment you need it during a tour, while out exploring town, or when dining at a restaurant.

Wi-fi is readily available throughout Costa Rica. In many locations, including inside Costa Rica’s two international airports and surrounding some cities’ central parks, access to a wi-fi signal is free. In public locations, this may also mean that a wi-fi signal is unsecured (for wi-fi signal protection, please see our tip about this below). Many hotels will include free and secure wi-fi internet with their room rates, however, depending on the hotel’s location and the strength of their signal, wi-fi access may be limited to the hotel’s reception/lobby area. Avoid hotels that classify internet as an “amenity”. In our opinion, and in today’s day and age when most of us are dependent on the internet for a plethora of reasons, hotels that opt to charge an additional fee for wi-fi access is a bit like them offering a complimentary and nourishing breakfast with a table service fee. When the cake is dangled in front of us and we want to eat it too, internet charges are insulting. Consider the ridiculous daily internet fee that Costa Rica’s infamous Tabacon Resort used to charge its guests, which, after complaint #1, complaint #10, and complaint #100 were launched by unimpressed travellers, the hotel thankfully came to their senses about and have since done away with. Plainly put, hotel internet charges are an inadvertent way for a hotel to suggest that the cost spent on a room (nearly $250.00/night in Tabacon’s case) isn’t enough payment for them to include convenience, efficiency, and satisfaction in their customer’s experience. Fortunately, travellers have other companies to turn to, including transportation service providers and tour operators, for wi-fi access in Costa Rica if their internet wants and needs are not able to be met by their hotel. Some companies, including one of our favourites: Desafio Adventure Company , are able to provide wi-fi access on-board their transfer service vehicles. For travellers, this means more time to scour the net when you are stuck in a van between destinations or while making your way to the start of an adventure activity, and less time searching for and tapping into a wi-fi signal at another time during your trip when you could be dining, shopping, exploring, sunbathing, or flat out relaxing instead. Brilliant!

Access to unsecured wi-fi signals (and in some cases, secure wi-fi signals) can put your electronic devices at risk of being hacked by others sharing the same signal as you. Avoid logging into private accounts (such as your online banking account) or sending/opening confidential information when you are tapped into an unsecured wi-fi signal. Limit your internet use to necessary travel-related functions, including the verification of online schedules, communication with the individual helping you coordinate your trip, or review of your reservation confirmation details.
If you are unsure whether the wi-fi signal you are tapped into is a secure one or not, question whether you were prompted by your computer to enter a username and password prior to successfully connecting to the internet (hotel reception staff sometimes provide guests with username and password information upon check-in, or the details may be posted inside the hotel room directly, such as behind the entry/exit door or on a desk). A password prompt indicates that a signal is secure (in that a password must be entered correctly to gain access to the internet). In terms of overall security, although entering a password means that you are connected to a secure wi-fi signal, it also means the same for every other individual who underwent the same process to share the wi-fi signal with you. Since sharing a wi-fi signal (even when the signal is secure) is never fully safe, we recommend exercising caution whenever you opt to go online through any wi-fi connection other than the private one you have at home.
For additional wi-fi safety advice, the following is a great resource: http://www.idtheftauthority.com/keeping-id-safe-hotel-wifi-networks
For general Costa Rica safety advice, don’t miss our related blog post: Is Costa Rica Safe? Yes, If You Do This.

Travellers who opt not to bring electronic devices with them to Costa Rica will be pleased to know that internet cafes are widely available in popular tourist areas. Unfortunately, most cafes offer dated and boxy computers; nostalgic reminders of an era when computer casing was cube-like and computer screens were as thick as a pair of bad 1970s bifocals. Of course, if all you need is to send a quick email or catch up on the local news at home, they’ll get the job done.

If you plan to use internet cafes for talking on Skype, consider bringing your own microphone/earphone set from home. Most internet cafes offer the equipment, but in case a particular cafe does not, or if the equipment happens to be out of service, at least you will have a back-up set for privacy’s sake.

The most well-known television programming providers in Costa Rica are CableTica, Sky, and Claro. Channels vary across providers, however all three offer, in the very least, a few English-language channels broadcast through popular American networks. As a side note, Costa Rican television providers love offering American channels that feature sitcom comedies. I would argue that Friends , Two And A Half Men , and The Big Bang Theory have played on repeat in Costa Rica for the past 8 years. Of the hotel that offer their guests in-room television, the majority will have a subscription with one of the three primary programming providers. Some sports bars in popular tourist towns subscribe to additional channels that allow them to access games unavailable through regular programming, including the holy grail of American Football (the Superbowl ), and highly anticipated European Futbol match-ups (especially when Costa Rica’s pride and joy, Keylor Navas, takes the net for Real Madrid in an always-glorious game against their rivals in Barcelona).

If your hotel offers a decent wi-fi signal it may be an option to catch your favourite shows online, assuming you have a paid programming subscription granting you access to the online content. I have heard from other travellers that Netflix.com accounts do not work in Costa Rica, but Ricky and I have a Netflix.ca account and it works just fine. Truth be told, it gives us access to the American Netflix.com’s programming line-up, and not the Canadian Netflix.ca list (despite our account being a Canadian one), but we are content viewers (pun intended) nonetheless.

If you think you will want or need access to a phone in Costa Rica you have a number of options. For one, consider what you plan to use the phone for. Will it be used for coordinating in-country tour and hotel reservations? For quick calls to your home country? For longer international business calls to the office? Most hotels offer an in-room phone with free local calling, and if they do not, any hotel’s reception staff should be willing to place a call for you or let you access a phone for public use in the lobby. If you plan to communicate internationally (especially if you plan on making lengthy calls), and if relying on an internet connection to do so (ie. email, instant messaging, or phone calls through Skype) will not work for you, you will need to have access to a cell phone. You may bring your own cell phone and accompanying SIM card from home if you like, however we would suggest winning the lottery first; long distance calling and roaming fees can be a horrendous and unwanted trip souvenir. You may also bring your own cell phone with the intent of purchasing a SIM card in Costa Rica for local use. This option is a good one if the cell phone you plan to bring with you is unlocked. Alternatively, if the cell phone is locked, placing a Costa Rican SIM card into the cell phone will be a redundant feat as the phone will not operate, and a separate cell phone will need to be rented in order to obtain access to an active line. A variety of online businesses offer cell phone rental services, but our experience has taught us that the majority of individuals who want access to a cell phone throughout the duration of their trip are those who plan to drive themselves around the country, and fortunately, many vehicle rental companies conveniently offer the option to add a cell phone rental to their car rental contract. Deals vary across companies; some vehicle rental agencies will include a cell phone rental for free and charge for the minutes used, some will automatically include a number of free minutes with the use of the cell phone charged at a daily rental rate, and some will combine elements of the two arrangements.

If you are hesitant to bring your high-quality, new, or contact-filled cell phone to Costa Rica for fear of losing or breaking it, opt to purchase a second cell phone of an older model or used variety to bring to Costa Rica as a travel back-up device (make sure you purchase an unlocked cell phone!). This will allow you to have access to your own cell phone in Costa Rica without risking damage to your preferred device, and will avoid the hassle and possible cost of unlocking your primary cell phone for the purpose of your short trip.

As discussed in the previous paragraph, travellers can opt to bring their own unlocked cell phone with them to Costa Rica or they can rent a cell phone once they arrive in the country. Either way, a new SIM card must be purchased to avoid a hefty cell phone bill surprise. Purchasing a SIM card is quick and easy, and the cards are sold at multiple locations throughout the country, including at the international airports, supermarkets, tech shops, cell phone company offices, and some internet cafes.

Beyond voice minutes, SIM cards can also be purchased for the purpose of internet data use. If you plan to use a cell phone for online purposes or as a mobile hotspot for connecting other devices to a wi-fi signal (assuming that the cell phone brought to Costa Rica or rented in-country is wi-fi enabled), accessing the internet via a SIM card is almost always less expensive than paying a daily internet rate to a hotel or hourly internet rate at an internet cafe.

If you plan to bring your devices to Costa Rica, device protection should be a priority. Imagine bringing an expensive device with you on vacation only to lose or break it and have to purchase a new one soon after returning home. That money would be better spent on a return ticket to Costa Rica, don’t you think? Given that you will likely be heading out on some adventurous treks during your Costa Rican adventure, and considering that it rains a lot, we recommend a hard-shelled, waterproof device case (or at least a waterproof device bag, if you would prefer something smaller and more pliable). Specifically recommended for cell phone protection, consider pulling a MacGyver and constructing a DIY device leash to prevent dropping your phone at an inopportune moment, such as when you are ziplining between trees high above the forest floor below. Simply attach a rope or cord (ideally one that retracts) to your device or device’s case/bag and connect a small carabiner to the other end. The carabiner can then be latched on to a safe place, such as your belt loop or backpack (depending on the activity you are participating in and the equipment you may be using/carrying at the time). Sorry, careless drops and unnecessary expenses resulting from a cracked device screen, this traveller came prepared!

If you are considering bringing a device larger than a cell phone with you to Costa Rica, such as a laptop or tablet, and you cannot decide between the two, we recommend opting for a tablet. Although laptops tend to be more convenient for writing purposes, tablets are generally smaller in size, offer thinner and less bulky cables to pack, and tuck neatly into hotel safes. If the extent of your trip device’s travel experience will be your hotel room, utilizing hotel safes can help protect your device from accidental damage when you are in the room and sticky fingers when you are not.
Before leaving home, don’t forget to register your cell phone with your provider (Apple, Samsung, and Microsoft require a free account for this) and enable the Find My Phone feature (or similar) in your device’s settings. In the event that you lose your phone in Costa Rica, the feature can help you locate it. While you’re fiddling with your phone’s settings, if entry to your device is not already secured by a strong password, we would recommending adding one (at least for the duration of your vacation; password settings can be changed after your trip to remove the password, if you so desire, once you return home). Doing so will, in the very least, make your phone’s personal information more challenging for others to access should you happen to drop the device or have it stolen from you throughout your travels.

If you are addicted to your devices, chances are a multitude of downloaded apps are at least partly to blame for your kick. Haven’t we all binged on Fruit Ninja, Angry Birds , or Candy Crush Saga at least once? Just me? Fortunately, apps can just as easily help us save and manage our time as they can cause us to waste it on fruit slicing, bird launching, and combining computerized candies. If you plan to travel, checkout your device’s online app store to learn which general travel apps can help you research, prioritize, organize, and execute your trip. If you are looking for resources specific to Costa Rica, there are apps for that too, including Costa Rica travel guide apps, a Costa Rican Colones currency converter app, and Costa Rica map apps (say that five times fast!).

Download your desired apps before you start to travel. The destination you plan to visit in Costa Rica may have a weak wi-fi signal that prevents you from downloading your desired apps the moment you want or need them the most. Or, perhaps the rapid-fire internet signal at your hotel allows you to download multiple apps at the same time like a pro, but unbeknownst to you, your multitasking device has eaten its way through your limited megabyte allotment faster than you scarfed down that sweet, fresh, tropical fruit at breakfast. Downloading any/all apps that you wish to rely on during your trip before you leave home will not only ensure that you will have access each once you are in Costa Rica, but will help you avoid needless data usage charges for content that could have been obtained for free at home. This same rule applies for any apps that your airline may require your device to have to access their in-flight entertainment system. Since airplanes typically do not provide their own wi-fi signal, if you board a plane only to realize later that a particular app is required to watch television shows and movies on your device while on-board, you will be left to pass the travel time conversing with your seat neighbours (or sleeping, if you would prefer to avoid social interaction). Keep in mind that given the convenience of deleting app downloads (especially free app downloads) as quickly and as easily as they are obtained, if at any point during your trip you determine that a particular app has already served the purpose you recruited it for, or, once a travel app is no longer of use to you after your trip is complete, you can send it on a journey to the uninstall bin and free up more space for vacation photos and videos a dditional games and procrastination. 😉

The internet is designed to help us meet, mingle, and get tangled up with one another; hence, its coining of the phrase: the World Wide Web . Just as you plan to connect with friendly Costa Rican people and the country’s inviting and natural environment through the act of travel, Costa Rica longs to connect with you. Here are a number of ways the internet can be used as an interactive and interaction-encouraging tool to improve your travel experience:

To stay in touch with the individuals who helped you plan your trip, such as your travel agent or helpful bloggers like us at Costa Rica Travel Blog 🙂
To make new online tour, hotel, or transfer service reservations, or make changes to existing reservations
To ensure you are aware of any applicable and last-minute reservation changes
To ensure you are aware of any roadblocks (literal and figurative ones) that could disrupt your travel plans, such as highway closures, street protests, transfer service departure delays, or weather concerns.
To stay informed of local Costa Rican news reports (many websites, such as the Tico Times , offer news reports in English)
To connect and trade comments/advice with other travellers in online travel forums
To provide reviews/ratings/feedback regarding your travel experience on evaluative social media pages (such as the review section of a Facebook page or Google+ profile)
Costa Rican businesses can fall anywhere along the technological-advances scale. Some companies’ websites utilize new, modern, and interactive website templates, widgets, and forms, and others look as sad and as static as my first-ever website created in the 1990s: a GeoCities masterpiece featuring Backstreet Boys clipart, scrolling text, and flashy, html code-inserted .gif files. Of the companies that have adopted a more progressive approach to website design and operation, most utilize progressive methods of communicating as well. It is not uncommon for these companies to offer travellers their Skype and/or WhatsApp account details in addition to a toll-free phone number and email address as means of establishing contact. As a visitor to a foreign country, you’re likely a happy, squeaky-clean sponge, and eager to soak up knowledge. Fortunately, connecting with others who can offer insightful and meaningful information, answers, and recommendations is an option that is widely available and more convenient than ever before.

Planning which devices you will use in Costa Rica, knowing how to protect them, and understanding how they can open doors for you to the infinite and detail-saturated cyberspace we call the internet, are important steps toward ensuring a well-planned trip becomes a successfully executed one. Equally so is maintaining the data the devices collect. It is unfortunate when we hear of travellers losing their cell phone or tablet files, including once-in-a-lifetime vacation photos and videos, simply because they did not make a copy prior to the proverbial sh*t hitting the proverbial fan. Whenever we are on the move, we are constantly backing up our files onto a portable, external hard drive. In fact, we own two external hard drives: one that travels with us that we add files to regularly to free up space on our devices, and one that stays at home as our back-up’s back-up. Personally, we have yet to make the switch to online storage, but truth be told, cloud-type sources of data storage are ideal for travellers. Regardless of any unfortunate happenings you may encounter during your trip, like your lonely family dog who would count the days until your return on his paws if he could, data saved to the cloud will be waiting for you, metaphorical tail wagging and jowls slobbering, once you arrive home.

If you have a cloud-type account for online storage, save copies of your trip documents to it prior to leaving home (including itinerary notes, passport/identification copies, reservation confirmations, contact information, and maps). In the event of an emergency and you are unable to locate, access, or power-up your own device, all of the information you will need for the successful operation of your trip will remain available to you online given that the internet can be accessed via alternative devices (such as those available to rent, public-use computers in a hotel lobbies, or computers at internet cafes). No one wants to deal with stress and panic while on vacation; Certainly not you, and fortunately you won’t have to because you’ve done your research and you travel prepared. 🙂

QUESTION TO COMMENT ON: What suggestions do you have regarding the internet, technology, and devices for travellers heading to Costa Rica? What did you find helpful if you just returned home from your trip?

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Tagged: cell phone , costa rica , costa rica travel , internet , laptop , tablet , technology , travel , travel tips , vacation

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Excellent Article. Learned a lot so I tweeted it and added it to CRSurf.com’s pinterest Travel Tip’s Board.

Hello Gina!

Thanks so much for your support! CRSurf.com is a great resource for surfers—good work! 🙂

Hiya, great article – really helpful, so thank you!

We have a hire car for a 2.5 weeks holiday in November. We have decided to buy an unlocked smartphone in the UK prior to leaving then buying a sim card once we arrive. The plan is to use that phone purely as GPS (the GPS hire through car hire places was extortionate!!) we won’t need it for phone calls/texts or anything else and wanted to ask if 1) you think that’s the best option for driving around and 2) do you have a tip on which sim card to get considering we only want one with PAYG data for use on good maps?

Thanks in advance for any tips – we can’t WAIT to get to CR!! Emma

Thanks so much for your kind comments! 🙂 Regarding SIM cards, I should first ask: whereabouts do you plan to travel while here? We usually prefer Kolbi because its signal tends to be the most reliable in far-flung or mountainous areas. Claro tends to work best in and around San Jose. Movistar can be hit or miss, in our opinion.

Didn’t see anything about cell phones. Can we still text each other while there without fees? What about calling home? Do we need an unlocked phone or to tell our carrier we will be out of the country?

Hello Ruth B!

We don’t recommend relying on your own personal cell phone and home cell phone plan while traveling, unless your cell phone has an incredibly affordable out-of-country pricing plan, and the cell phone itself is unlocked. (“Unlocked” means that it will work with a local SIM card purchased here.) If you don’t purchase a local SIM card here and insert it into your cell phone, replacing the SIM card that you normally use in your phone at home, your home cell phone provider will charge you for the services you use while in Costa Rica, including any texts, calls, or internet searches you make. Those services will be considered long-distance and will likely come at a hefty cost.

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Sadly, ai-generated costa rica blogs and guides are taking over the internet. thank you for choosing our authentic website and resources over others, for trusting our firsthand experience, and for preferring our human-backed recommendations 😀 other ways we are unique:.

✓ We choose not to display ads, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing on our blog. Because we prioritize your privacy, we don't earn money when you visit us, when you sign up for our e-course, or when you click on our links, which means the time and work we put into this blog is entirely voluntary. ✓ Ricky is a born-and-raised Costa Rican and Nikki (married to Ricky) has explored Costa Rica since the mid-2000s . ✓ We've operated our Costa Rica-based business, Pura Vida! eh? Inc. , for 16 years (and counting!) . ✓ Our Costa Rica guidebooks are published by the prestigious Moon Travel Guides brand . ✓ We only ever write about experiences we know firsthand , and we never stuff our blog with general information about Costa Rica that is widely available elsewhere . ✓ We never copy or plagiarize other writers' content . How we wish other writers would show us the same respect! ✓ Unless stated otherwise, every photo displayed on our blog was taken by us, and with our own two hands. (Unlike some other bloggers, who rely on drones to travel and conduct research for them, we actually visit and explore the places we write about .)👍🏽 ✓ We're active in promoting Costa Rica around the world . We've written about Costa Rica for Wanderlust Magazine (UK), presented Costa Rica on Rick Steves' Monday Night Travel Show and podcast/radio show (US), and served as a Costa Rica Destination Editor for Essentialist (Spain). ✓ Our work is backed by hundreds of positive reviews and testimonials ( read some here ) ✓ We are not overly active on social media . Instead of fixating on our own popularity, we spend the majority of our time exploring and researching Costa Rica, updating our various Costa Rica resources, and working with travelers one-on-one. We're focused on the quality of your travel experience , not the quantity of our followers. ❤️

We hope you enjoy your visit to our junk-free blog as much as your time in Costa Rica. 😊

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Car Wi-Fi: How to get connected in your vehicle

Jan 22, 2024 — 7 min read

Newer cars are equipped with Wi-Fi equipment, but you can add internet capability to just about any vehicle with your cell phone or a mobile hotspot.

Most new cars come with Wi-Fi technology, but you can add Wi-Fi equipment to most vehicles manufactured after 1996.
Wi-Fi plans for vehicles start as low as $20 per month and may include unlimited data.
Car Wi-Fi is different from a mobile hotspot and is likely to give you a better connection while preserving your mobile data and phone battery.
The in-car Wi-Fi market is estimated to grow 49.01% by 2028.

What has four wheels and Wi-Fi? Possibly your next car, truck or SUV. Or, with some new equipment and a Wi-Fi plan, it could be your current car.

We use Wi-Fi almost everywhere, so why not have it in your car as well? Some internet providers and car manufacturers agree and are making connections more accessible to drivers.

If you want Wi-Fi in your car, whether to appease the kids in the backseat or accommodate your associates in the carpool, you have a few options. Here’s what you need to know.

How do you get Wi-Fi for your car?

Many newer model vehicles come with built-in Wi-Fi equipment. But if you aren’t in the market for a new car — or the one you want doesn’t come with the technology — there are a few devices to help you bridge the gap. Finally, once you have a means to receive internet service, whether through a built-in system or add-on equipment, you’ll need a Wi-Fi plan .

What cars have built-in Wi-Fi?

Many manufacturers are adding built-in Wi-Fi equipment to their new vehicles. That’s not to say these vehicles come with Wi-Fi included, but they are service-ready without any additional equipment needed.

Some popular manufacturers that are producing select vehicles with built-in Wi-Fi technology include:

Some vehicle manufacturers have built-in programs like On-Star, Entune and Uconnect Web, among others, that you can subscribe to monthly. They are good for hands-free calling for the driver, hearing weather reports and alerts, and accessing mechanical and emergency help. Passengers are also able to use the internet on their devices.

However, not all new vehicles from these manufacturers come with built-in Wi-Fi. If you’re interested in having the technology in your new vehicle, speak with an auto sales professional about the specific models that come with Wi-Fi equipment.

How can I add Wi-Fi in my car?

Built-in Wi-Fi is convenient, but it probably doesn’t warrant buying a new car. However, it’s possible you can still get Wi-Fi in your car; you need the right equipment.

OBD II devices

Some car Wi-Fi devices, like the AT&T ZTE Mobley™ | 503 or the Verizon Hu OBD reader , plug into your car’s OBD II port. These devices are often available from the service provider and may cost $100 or more.

You may be wondering, what’s an OBD II port and where do I find it? It’s most likely located below your steering column or dash. It’s what mechanics plug into to run vehicle diagnostics, but you can use it to create a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Installed wireless routers

While more expensive than OBD II devices, an installed Wi-Fi router will give you a better connection and you won’t have to worry about plugging in anything. Car routers can range from $200 to $600 and should be professionally installed.

What providers offer Wi-Fi service for cars?

Regardless of what equipment you use, you’ll need a mobile plan. Major cellular providers including AT& T, T-Mobile and Verizon offer Wi-Fi plans specifically for vehicles.

Car Wi-Fi plans

Car Wi-Fi pricing varies by provider and plan. Additionally, you may need cellular service from a specific provider to be eligible for their service or special pricing.

Pay-as-you-go plans may also be available, ideal for a summer road trip or long drives to visit family over the holidays. With these plans, you pay for an allotted amount of data and use it at your convenience.

Verizon, for instance, has non-cellular customer plans for $20/mo. for Bentley, BMW, Kia, Mazda, Toyota, Lexus and VW.

Contact your cellular service provider for more information about car Wi-Fi plans and equipment costs.

Car Wi-Fi restrictions

Some providers may have data restrictions, so keep that in mind while shopping for a plan. Not all providers require you to be a cellular or internet customer and you may be able to get a Wi-Fi plan for your car from them without signing up for other services.

Signal quality depends on your proximity to towers, so your service may fade in and out as you are traveling. Parking at a lot or rest area can ensure you have a more stable connection.

Benefits of car Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi in a vehicle can be a good option if you travel long distances with children, making games and movie viewing easier. It can also provide live traffic updates and weather conditions.

Having internet access can also provide you with easier access to emergency or roadside services.

For business, it’s handy to stay in contact with your office and join meetings – if you aren’t the driver! Remember, most states have a hands-off device or no texting/driving law for operators of motor vehicles.

How is Wi-Fi in your car different than a mobile hotspot?

Most smartphones come equipped with a mobile hotspot function and providers offer the service at no extra charge, so why would you need a Wi-Fi connection in your car? There are a few reasons why you might prefer a car Wi-Fi over a mobile hotspot.

You’re likely to get a stronger signal. With a mobile hotspot, your phone uses a built-in antenna to receive a signal. With Wi-Fi, your car is essentially the antenna, bettering your chances of receiving a strong, reliable signal.
If the car is on, so is your connection. OBD II devices run on your vehicle’s power, so when your vehicle is on, so is your Wi-Fi.
It’ll save your phone’s battery… If you’ve used your phone as a mobile hotspot, you know how it can drain your battery. This may not be a big deal if there’s a charger handy, but that basically means no one else gets to charge their phone.
…and your mobile plan’s data . Sure, everyone in the office carpool has a smartphone with hotspot capabilities, but who is willing to sacrifice their data so that others can connect? And what happens to the connection when you drop them off at the end of the day?
It works with your vehicle. Features like location sharing, driving history and crash response come with Verizon’s Hum device and service. Additionally, select vehicles with built-in Wi-Fi can run diagnostics and software updates remotely , without needing a trip to the dealership.

So, is car Wi-Fi worth it?

Right now, Wi-Fi in your car may be worth it in situations where multiple passengers could use the connection either daily or on a trip. But, if you aren’t frequently playing chauffeur or don’t have any big road trips planned, you may not need an in-car Wi-Fi connection.

The next time you buy a new car, however, it’s likely to have Wi-Fi technology built-in, whether you plan on using it or not. As the technology becomes more available, look for cellular service providers to offer more plans and features around Wi-Fi for your vehicle.

How else can you get connected in your car?

There are other options than a Wi-Fi connection if you need internet in your car , truck, RV or SUV.

You can use a MiFi device to access the internet (through Wi-Fi) when you are on the go. This mobile Wi-Fi router can get you online in your car, a bus, RV or train. The benefit of a Mi-Fi device is that you won’t be relying on cellular data to run it and you can connect multiple devices at once.

RV satellite

Satellite internet providers like Starlink , Hughesnet and Viasat offer plans specifically tailored to getting internet in a recreational vehicle . They can be pricey, but you can buy them on-demand and pause when you stop traveling. You must be parked to receive the signal, but it far better in speed and availability than using your cellular data.

Portable and mobile hotspots

As mentioned above, mobile and portable hotspots are always on option for internet in a moving vehicle. Most newer cell phones have a built-in mobile hotspot that you’ll need to turn on with your provider. Some of them have extra fees involved, data caps and can strain your phone’s battery with extended use.

Purchasing your own portable hotspot with a data plan that is outside of your cell phone plan. They can get pricey, but they are an excellent option to get internet in your car if you intend to use it other than in an emergency.

Remember to stay safe and secure on the road!

Along with being mindful of the roadway, keep in mind that someone in the next car over may have access to your mobile Wi-Fi connection. Use a VPN or treat your in-car Wi-Fi connection like a public Wi-Fi network . Avoid entering any sensitive information, such as passwords or banking info, while connected. Safe travels!

Wi-Fi in cars FAQs

You can get Wi-Fi in your car via your cell phone’s hotspot, by purchasing a separate Mi-Fi device and plan or getting a recommended plan from your car’s manufacturer for nationwide providers like AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon.

If you need to access the internet while traveling locally, regionally or nationally, yes, having a dedicated Wi-Fi plan for your car will be worth it just not to pay overage fees on your cell phone plan.

If you use your cell phone’s hotspot, it can get costly if you go over your data cap. For built-in car Wi-Fi, plans run around $20/mo.

That depends on the plan you have, but generally an average of five to seven devices can run off of a car’s Wi-Fi connection.

Written by:

Senior Writer, Broadband Content

Editor, Broadband Content

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What’s the Best RV Internet Setup? 2024 Update

by Marc Bennett
Updated: February 1, 2024

This post may contain affiliate links .

marc sits at RV driver seat office to work on laptop

Feeling overwhelmed or confused by the challenge of trying to work out the best RV internet setup for your RV life and travels? There’s a lot of info out there, and it can be hard to try and make sense of it all. But if you want a powerful, straightforward high-speed internet solution that simply works, our latest RV internet setup may just be a fit for you. Especially if, like us, you work from the road and solid internet is a high priority.

Since our last post about how technology keeps us mobile and connected, a LOT has changed.

So, we’ll start with an overview of RV internet and some of the options we’ve used over the years. We’ll also share the exact gear in our setup that gives us rock-solid internet in our RV. Plus, we’ll tell you all about cell data plans that are game changers for RVers – and how you can get it. We also touch on why Starlink may be great, but it’s not the sole answer for many RVers, and why we haven’t pulled the trigger on one yet.

Spoiler Alert: You can now get a complete all-in-one RV internet connectivity solution – and high data, high-speed data plan – with a major, nationwide cellular carrier – all from ONE reputable place. So you can seamlessly work remotely, and from the road, or just about anywhere!

What you will learn in this post

We’ve intentionally kept this article high-level and easy to understand. But by the end, we hope you’ll have a much better understanding of what you need to get good internet. And come away with clarity on whether or not the options we share – and the setup that works for us – will work for you, too.

If you’re new to the world of RV connectivity, we recommend you read this entire post for an overview of the most common internet options for the RV lifestyle. But if you’re already fairly well versed in RV mobile internet and just want specific information – say on exclusive, high data, high-speed cellular data plans, or all-in-one mobile internet bundles – simply use the Quick Links below to jump straight to a specific section.

OK, let’s dive in!

Marc gets a visitor while working outside the RV at the Gunnison KOA Journey, CO

The Right RV Internet setup = More Freedom & Fun

As you might expect, after 9+ years on the road – living, working, and traveling in our RVs while exploring North America – our internet connectivity solution has evolved quite a few times along the way. Alongside the changing technology options available, we have upgraded our setup to ensure our RV internet solution was the best one for our needs. It’s as close as we have been able to get to ‘home internet’ reliability since we hit the road as digital nomads in our first motorhome back in 2014.

Our internet setup gives us the freedom and fun of staying wireless and mobile! Whether we’re staying in campgrounds, visiting national parks, or boondocking out on open land. And our system is able to ‘grow’ with us as our needs change.

Julie’s RV office in our first motorhome. Photo Credit: GabrielaPhoto.com

What We Do – And Don't – Cover In This Post

In this article, we also answer the big questions we get every week, including:

How do we get RV internet access on the road?
What is the best mobile internet solution for RV living?
What gear do we use and recommend for our RV internet?

Before we begin, please understand this article does not cover the vast myriad of options available regarding all things Internet. There is no one-size-fits-all and a wide range of internet needs and budgets. That is a HUGE minefield which is covered in great detail by the team of experts at Mobile Internet Resource Center .

This post is based on our own personal, real-world experience with internet connectivity while working from the road in our RVs. And it is aimed at those of you with similar needs who absolutely require a solid, reliable internet connection. And want to know exactly what gear you need to make that happen.

Our early work, technology and internet gear, back in 2014-15. But hey, it worked! Photo Credit: GabrielaPhoto.com

What Do We Use The RV Internet For?

A lot! That’s why (back in 2013) around nine months before we hit the road – before we even started RV shopping – our biggest question and concern was:

How can we ensure we will have solid and reliable high-speed internet access so we can work while we travel?

We knew if we couldn’t get reliable high-speed internet for Marc’s 9–5 job, we couldn’t be full-time RVers. It was that simple. Fortunately, we found the best option then , but of course, almost everything has changed since then.

Now if you’re a casual RV camper with low internet needs, or if you like to get away from it all and disconnect from technology, this question (and article) likely won’t be as relevant to you. But if, like us, your livelihood depends on being able to connect to the internet, then it’s going to be a high priority – for both business and/or personal purposes.

If you are planning to work from the road (or already do), do extended or full-time RVing, or just want to stay connected while you travel, then a setup like ours may be a good fit for you. Keep reading to learn more about how we use the internet.

Marc works in the office we converted from a bunkhouse in our first motorhome

The key activities we’ve needed and used the internet for:

Do full-time remote work for an employer
Host and participate in Zoom meetings
Run our online business from the road
Manage email, social media, upload videos, and write blog posts
Run our online school
Stream YouTube videos, watch Netflix and movies, listen to music
Access cloud-based software and apps
Back up our iPhone photos and videos to iCloud
Download audiobooks, podcasts and ebooks
Checking the news and weather
GPS and trip planning
Campground research and making reservations
Have FaceTime and Skype calls with family and friends
Take care of online banking and other business/personal transactions

Our first RV – a Class A gas motorhome – in Badlands National Park, SD

Other common activities RVers use internet for include:

Doing VOiP calls
Road schooling kids
Teaching or taking online classes

Marc kicks back to watch a movie on Netflix in our first motorhome

How To Get RV Internet Access On The Road?

Advancements in cellular technologies over the last decade mean you can work efficiently on the road simply using cellular network WiFi. Cell service is widely available across the country and the world, even in rural areas and remote locations.

If you’re an occasional, low-level internet user, you may be comfortable using public Wi-Fi networks and/or campground WiFi. But remember that while ‘free,’ these are almost always open, unsecured public wifi networks. And despite what the coffee shops or RV parks may claim, their WiFi is almost always WAY too unreliable and inconsistent to rely on for work or dealing with secure information.

When a solid internet connection is critical to you – say for work or online school for kids – you really need to bring your own internet solution with you as you travel.

The three main things you’ll need to consistently get high-speed internet on the road are:

Cellular plan(s) with sufficient GB data from a major, nationwide cellular carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) and/or a Starlink plan
Related hardware that will both work with your cellular data plan (a device to put your SIM card into) and help ensure you get the best cellular signal and/or a satellite like Starlink
Areas that actually HAVE decent cellular signal – or a clear sky to point your satellite – so plan accordingly!

These days, in most parts of the country, it is surprisingly easy to find decent internet coverage with the three major carriers. You can even find good cellular reception in some remote boondocking locations, where it’s less populated and therefore has less demand on the cellular towers!

Starlink is becoming more popular, but it still has too many restrictions to be an exclusive internet solution. Satellite internet service is really more of a backup/addition for redundancy. So, while we touch on it, we don’t cover it in detail. It’s not part of our core ‘set and forget’ RV internet solution.

Boondocking – and working – on BLM land near Saddle Mountain, in Arizona

What RV Internet Device Options Are Available?

There are a handful of options that are very commonly used. Because our total connectivity solution has grown over the years, we have all of these in our arsenal, except satellite.

1. Smart Phones and Tablets

You can use your smartphone and/or tablet to access the internet via the data plan with your cellular carrier. This can be a good option for checking email and social media, having FaceTime or Zoom calls, etc.

You can connect a computer to your mobile device using the “personal hotspot” or “mobile hotspot” feature. However, there is usually a limit on the faster speeds and data allowed for the device and a smaller data allowance for use as a mobile hotspot. Once you hit your data caps, upload and download speeds will be reduced.

We use our smart phones/tablet to check emails, social media, news, and weather

2. WiFi Hotspots, MiFis and Jetpacks

These are all basically the same thing with different names. A portable device powered by a lithium battery that comes with a SIM card/data plan from a cellular provider. Unlike using your cell phone as a mobile hotspot, these hotspots can’t make calls or surf the web. They are an access point for your other devices.

They work quite well, but if left on for hours at a time, they can overheat (and be a fire hazard), batteries can swell, and you may need to reboot. In our early years, we had two Jetpack / MiFi devices. We had one each with AT&T and Verizon for extra coverage and redundancy.

Now we just use MiFis as a backup and take on road trips in our vehicle when we know we’ll be driving in areas not well covered by our phone cellular carrier. (We have two iPhones with T-Mobile and a MiFi with a different carrier). Mobile hotspots can still be a useful, portable internet option, especially if you can find a big data plan to go with it. But the best RV internet options take it up a big notch.

In our early years, we relied on WiFi and cellular hotspots from AT&T and Verizon

3. Cellular Router with Modem

This is a more advanced piece of hardware and is considered a serious mobile cellular router for the advanced user. It is extremely robust, reliable, stable, and powered by plugging into an AC outlet or 12V power source. They come with one or two modems. So you can use it with more than one SIM card/data plan simultaneously for the best coverage across multiple carriers. This provides a much more reliable connection.

It provides a central hub to connect all your cellular devices to access the internet. If you like to really geek out, there’s a lot more you can do with this router to enhance your internet connectivity (but we didn’t have the need to). We have had a dual modem router for over four years now. It’s been amazing – stable, fast, and reliable. This is the closest thing you can get to ‘home internet’ while traveling.

We’ve had a Pepwave cellular router with dual modem since 2019

4. Starlink Satellite

Like any new technology (and anything related to Elon Musk), there’s been a lot of buzz about Starlink satellite internet service. Early adopters, especially RVers, also discovered Starlink’s limitations. A Starlink satellite needs a large unobstructed view of the sky. You cannot park near trees. The original dish was big and took up a lot of storage space, which is usually at a premium in RVs, and you needed to set up and take down the dish every time you moved.

Finally, Starlink originally could not be used while in motion. So it should not be relied upon as a sole internet solution if you need to be connected for work. If you’re staying in remote areas with little to no cellular coverage, Starlink can be a great additional internet option. But Starlink is not essential to a core ‘set and forget’ RV internet setup.

In 2022 they released a new dish that can be permanently mounted and used in motion on RVs, removing multiple challenges of the original Starlink.

2023 update:

RV / Roaming data is still deprioritized compared to stationary residential plans. But speeds are still probably adequate for most users. Especially since it might be the only data you can get if there is no cell coverage in the area.

Also, in March 2023, Starlink stopped offering the ‘RV’ version and renamed it Starlink Roam. The new plan has two offerings. One that is only available on a single continent for $150/per month and a global plan for $200 per month. Both are only intended to be used on land, so they are not good for boaters.

Another huge development in March 2023. Mobile Must Have can now sell Starlink hardware and bundle it with its other offerings . In the video below, Erik from Mobile Must Have shows the new Starlink In Motion equipment.

Startlink continues to expand their offerings, and gain popularity. We are seeing more and more RVers with them, and we might be adding it to our arsenal soon.

Original Starlink dish temporarily mounted on a Class A motorhome

Why we don’t have Starlink yet

We don’t have Starlink as part of our RV internet solution. Hence we aren’t covering it in detail in this post. We have only used Starlink a few times. Only when staying at a remote Colorado campground , or other event, parked opposite an RV friend with Starlink as an additional backup option to his main RV internet solution. It was definitely handy to access it via their Pepwave router (which combines their multiple internet connectivity sources) to try it out for ourselves and get online at a place where we normally can’t.

Personally, we could not justify the size, space, and additional monthly cost for our needs and usage. This may change, but right now, it is overkill for our needs. So while Starlink is nice to have, it’s not a critical addition. That is unless you often camp in remote places, far from cellular towers. But, if you plan to RV full-time and simply want the most capable internet connection on the open road regardless of cost, adding a Starlink to a cellular connectivity solution through a Pepwave router is probably the ultimate solution.

To learn more about the pros and cons of Starlink, and decide if it is right for you, we recommend you check out the many Starlink resources at the Mobile Internet Resource Center . In the rest of this article, we’re staying focused on cellular connectivity, as that’s all we really use and need.

We parked opposite our friend’s motorhome and used his Starlink

The Biggest Internet Challenges For RVers

Internet connectivity is not something most people at home or work usually have to worry or think about. But internet anxiety can be very real for RVers! Suddenly you must be constantly mindful of many other things you never had to think about before. These include:

Getting decent cellular reception

This is almost always top of mind for RVers who rely on the internet, as it changes every time you pack up and move your RV. No matter which cellular carrier you are with, the cell signal will not be consistent, as it is when you are stationary. As an RVer, you need to plan your travels around connectivity. And ensure you have the right equipment to maximize the cellular signal.

As well as a cellular carrier with coverage in the remote areas you visit. Regardless, you’ll need to beware of camping in locations like canyons, valleys, and mountains, which impact cell reception, even if your cellular carrier’s map shows coverage!

Finding a high GB high-speed cellular data plan

To date, this has probably been THE biggest challenge of all. Most of us consume so much cell data on our mobile devices today. It has been very difficult (often impossible) to find TRUE unlimited data plans, especially direct from a carrier. It’s highly likely your so-called ‘unlimited data plan’ actually de-prioritizes or throttles your line after, say, 22GB or 30GB of usage. (Read the small print in the data contract for unlimited plans).

In 2014, we were lucky to secure a grandfathered unlimited data plan before Verizon closed a loophole. We still had to be careful about how we used it (and not abuse it) to not raise any attention. But eventually, it was shut down by Verizon in March 2022 after a good run of 7.5 years.

Some RVers have found a similar plan on the black or grey market (which often involves ‘renting’ a line through someone else). These have been in short supply due to high demand and also come with a level of risk. Over the years, we’ve also seen plans from resellers come and go, leaving their customers in the lurch when they close down. They usually have poor customer service experiences too. This is also why we have never shared or promoted any of them. We knew it was a matter of time, and we didn’t want to share or recommend anything we weren’t 100% confident in!

Finding a legitimate, high-speed data plan with sufficient GB for your needs has traditionally been extremely difficult to find. Fortunately, there is now a solution to that, with the new wireless plans from MobileMustHave. But keep reading. We’ll tell you all about it in a bit!

Making sense of the vast array of hardware options

From MiFis to Jetpacks, routers to boosters, antennas to WiFi boosters and Wi-Fi extenders, and more! Not all equipment is created with a total solution in mind. And many don’t perform in the way their marketing materials claim, either. Maybe the device itself works fine but simply isn’t necessary for what you need. Or perhaps it causes a conflict with other pieces of the technology puzzle.

Many RVers waste a lot of time and money on various devices and systems that they don’t understand and, often, may not even work well together. For example, while a cellular booster sounds great, it can actually hurt your signal. Is it any wonder people are so confused!? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!

So now you’re wondering…

Have internet will travel! Working while boondocking in the Arizona desert

What is the solution? You’ll need the right equipment (hardware) plus a cellular data plan with high GB capacity – that won’t be throttled or de-prioritized – on a reliable cellular network with strong nationwide coverage.

So, what is the best rv internet setup.

Yep, here comes our reminder again… there is no one-size-fits-all regarding RV internet! And what is best for us may not be best for you. Maybe you don’t need an internet setup as solid as this one. And by the way, this isn’t the cheapest mobile internet option available either. But that wasn’t the title of this post. This is about the BEST RV internet setup. But don’t worry. There are a few bundles to suit different budgets.

To be honest, after years of navigating this minefield, we are relieved to finally have an internet solution that has proven to be the best, most robust, and reliable system for our needs. The best thing is the new data plan, which makes for a TOTAL solution that we can recommend with confidence. It was difficult to do that before when we knew people would still find it challenging to hunt down a big data plan!

We genuinely believe what we’re about to share is the best RV internet setup for road warriors and working RVers who simply don’t want to worry about their internet connection.

So let’s take you through it.

graphic 3 elements of mobile internet connectivity

The Pepwave Router, Rooftop Antenna & High GB Cellular Data Plan

There are the 3 key elements of our best RV internet solution. They are:

1. Pepwave Mobile Router

If you are not familiar with Pepwave routers, they are the units normally used in commercial applications like police, fire, ambulance, military, and transportation companies. Places where reliable connectivity is absolutely essential. They are designed to be super reliable, rugged, and consistent. And they come with built-in antennas, which may work fine for you. However, adding a compatible rooftop antenna will significantly improve the strength of your cellular connection.

This is a mobile cellular router with a built-in cellular modem that you insert your SIM card(s) into. This broadcasts WiFi throughout your RV (outside too). There are several models to choose from. Pepwave MAX Transit Pro Dual Modem CAT-7/CAT-12 LTE-A Router, PrimeCare Edition. Specific reason why this mix 7+12. Cat-7 has a specific band optimized for T-Mobile, Cat 12 optimized for Verizon and ATT.

It is a dual modem that allows us to insert up to 4 SIM cards from different carriers, using two simultaneously.

Also, as mentioned above in the Starlink section , we didn’t feel we needed it. But if you want to level up even more you could bundle in Starlink with the cellular connection via the same Pepwave. As of March 2023, you can even purchase the Starlink through Mobile Must Have .

Pepwave Router with in-built antenna. Photo Credit: Annandale Photography

2. Rooftop Antenna

This is a MIMO (multiple input-multiple output) antenna that works well with the Pepwave router. It is an excellent pairing for extending cellular coverage and performance. And although a rooftop antenna is not essential, it significantly enhances connectivity reception. We got the Pepwave Mobility 42G (formally Puma 421) Antenna which works great with our Pepwave MAX Transit Pro Dual Modem.

The Poynting roof antenna on our previous motorhome – it looks a bit like a shark fin!

3. High-Speed Cellular Data Plan With High GB

You may already have a high GB data plan – and you can use SIM cards from any compatible carrier with the Pepwave router. But the final piece of the puzzle, if you DON’T have a big data plan, and the good news is you can now get a true high-speed data plan, with large data amounts from any of the three major carriers directly through MobileMustHave to use with their Pepwave. This solves a major and long-standing pain point for RVers who require a lot of data!

As mentioned earlier, we had an old Verizon unlimited data plan and an ‘unlimited’ AT&T plan subject to de-prioritization after 26GB for years. Those plans are no longer available. So we replaced them with the MobileMustHave R300 and a P800. We now have FAR more data and connection ability than ever before.

We inserted both SIM cards into our Pepwave for glorious streaming and screaming fast and stable internet speed!

Get Your Complete RV Internet From A Single Source

The Pepwave router and antenna have been available to RVers for a while. You can buy each of these three pieces individually or in a total internet bundle from MobileMustHave.com – an internet e-commerce store that focuses on the needs of RVers, especially tech gear and internet solutions.

This cellular plan and the internet bundles are MobileMustHave exclusives. This means you can get your total internet solution – hardware and cellular data – from a single service provider.

Here’s why this has huge benefits:

Solves the big problem of finding a high GB high-speed data plan.
Your Internet just WORKS, as all parts are designed to work together – resulting in a more reliable, stable Internet connection.
Simplifies the process of shopping, buying, and setup. And even technical and customer service, when buying from one reputable provider as they know what you have and how it’s all meant to work together.

OK, let’s cover the details of the new high-speed high-data plans in more detail first because this is really exciting! Then we’ll take a look at the three RV Internet bundles that you can add this data plan to.

New MobileMustHave Internet Cellular Data Plans

MobileMustHave Wireless R1000 – 1000GB/mo, Cellular Data Plan 1000 GB per month on the Verizon network. LTE and 5G compatible, authorized to use in a Peplink device, no contract required, and very high data cap limits.

MobileMustHave Wireless P800 – 800GB/mo Cellular Data Plan 800 GB per month on the T-Mobile network. LTE and 5G compatible, works with Peplink devices, no contract required, and high data limits.

MobileMustHave Wireless R300 – 300GB/mo 10mbps Cellular Data Plan 300 GB per month on the Verizon network. LTE and 5G compatible, authorized to use in a Peplink device, no contract required, and very high data limits.

But how much data will I need?

Generally, most users find 150-200GB of data per month is sufficient. That’s about what we use. But if you’re a heavy streamer and/or a family of 3 or more, you may need a bigger plan. We always recommend being smart about your data usage. For example, don’t automatically sync and backup all of the photos and videos on your smart phones to the cloud or across multiple devices. That will suck down your data FAST!

Now let’s look at the bundle options.

Choose From 3 RV Internet Access Bundles

You can chose from one of three internet connectivity bundles. These have been designed specifically with the needs of full time, extended travel or working RVers in mind. Basically, those who are serious about rock-solid internet.

1. Full Timer VR2 Internet Bundle

This is the most affordable of the three bundles, and includes the:

P epwave MAX BR1 MINI LTEA Mobile Router Primecare Edition (HW3)
Choice of one of the four recommended rooftop antennas
Ability to use one cellular data plan/SIM card in the router, from any major carrier

Optional Add Ons include:

Cellular Data Plan from one of the plans mentioned above.
Device Configuration and Training for $99 (DIY setup is free, and comes with emailed instructions. We highly recommend the training option)

>> Click for more detail, specs and price on the Full Timer VR2 Internet Bundle

SAVE 5% when you use discount code: RVLOVE (except on data plans)

If you plan to use more than one SIM card / carrier in your router (as we do), then you’ll want to level up to one of the dual modem options.

Marc works from his office space in the front of our Class A diesel motorhome

2. Speed Demon VR2 Internet Bundle

This bundle is designed for those who want the fastest, even if it isn’t the most reliable and stable. Imagine a sports car. This bundle includes:

Pepwave MAX BR1 Pro PrimeCare Router with CAT-20 Modem
Pepwave Mobility 42G (formally Puma 421) Antenna
Ability to insert 2 cellular data plan/SIM cards into the router, from any major carrier. Use one at a time.
One or more Cellular Data Plans from the plans mentioned above.

>> Click for more detail, specs and price on the Speed Demon VR2 Internet Bundle

Our Pepwave Modem, installed in our motorhome

3. Ultimate Road Warrior VR2 Internet Bundle

This bundle is designed for those super serious about speed and rock-solid connectivity on the road. We chose this bundle for our needs. It comes with the:

Pepwave MAX Transit Pro Dual Modem CAT-7/CAT-12 LTE-A Router, PrimeCare Edition
Ability to insert 4 cellular data plan/SIM cards into the router, from any major carrier, and use 2 simultaneously
Speed fusion of SIM cards

>> Click for more detail, specs and price on Ultimate Road Warrior VR2 Internet Bundle

Julie works from her RV office in our first RV, a gas Class A motorhome

How Much Will My RV Internet Setup Cost?

It all depends on your needs and which of these bundles or plans you choose, but here is a guideline of what it will cost to get you set up.

MobileMustHaveData Plan Only. This will usually cost you $150-$200 per month (discounts available for members), plus a $50 activation fee. However, there might be some price increases on plans soon. You’ll need to have the compatible hardware to insert your SIM card into.
*Save 5% with RVLOVE Discount Code: When making your purchase, you’ll save 5% on the hardware and bundles when you use the code RVLOVE upon checkout. Note this discount does NOT apply to data plans.

Out of your budget?

Of course, if your budget doesn’t stretch this far, or if you don’t need an internet setup quite this rugged, don’t despair! You can still explore other cellular data devices and data plan options that will help you get internet access without breaking the bank. Remember, we traveled and worked from the road for five years with just a couple of portable MiFi devices. We upgraded our setup in 2019, and then again in 2022! So another option may work perfectly well for your needs and budget.

All of this is constantly changing and fast. So the best way to keep on top of all it all is via the Mobile Internet Resource Center . They track and report on all breaking stories about cellular plans, the latest devices, and Starlink satellite too. Most of their excellent content is free. It is funded by premium MIA members (Mobile Internet Aficionados). We have followed and been guided by the Mobile Internet Resource Center as premium members since day one and highly recommend them.

Got Questions About Which is Right for You?

If you’re unsure about which bundle or equipment is right for your needs, the support staff and MobileMustHave.com website can quickly help you learn what you need to know and choose the right combo of equipment for your needs.

You can also read up on even more articles on this gear, with additional insights from the technical experts, at the Mobile Internet Resource Center .

Why Is This The Best RV Internet Solution?

We installed the Pepwave mobile router in our RV and mounted the antenna on the roof. Then we inserted our two SIM cards – T-Mobile and Verizon – into the Pepwave router. And with help from MobileMustHave’s team, we got it all properly configured. The difference was night and day.

Here’s what we found:

Our internet connection was noticeably more stable, faster, and consistent.
The router worked seamlessly 24/7 with both of our cellular carriers’ SIM cards, providing a constant, central WiFi source for all of our devices.
Ability for the router to determine which SIM card/data plan was best to use based on our location and reception (and how we set up parameters).
It felt like a residential internet connection.
We stopped worrying about whether our internet connection and cellular reception would be good enough for Zoom meetings and work.
No longer juggling our WiFi devices for the best reception and to track our data usage.
We were able to monitor our entire usage via the admin panel.

Of course, to get internet, you still need to be in locations where there IS cellular service. Or add the additional connectivity of Starlink to your solution. But it’s rare we go places where there is NO cellular service. Unless we absolutely want to disconnect.

Other areas we most noticed a welcome difference was NO MORE:

checking to see which WiFi device we should use for the best coverage
overheating devices or swelling batteries
rebooting our WiFi devices
having to remember to charge the device when the battery ran low
turning the MiFi devices off at night and back on in the morning

We had never really thought about the time and mental energy we spent thinking about our internet before. We just learned to deal with what we had as we didn’t know any better, not on the road anyway.

But after a few weeks with our new RV Internet setup, we realized we no longer had ‘internet anxiety’ anymore. In fact, we didn’t realize we even HAD internet anxiety until it stopped! We don’t think about our RV internet anymore, which is very freeing!

Julie works from our Class A diesel motorhome. Photo Credit: GabrielaPhoto.com

What About Cellular Boosters?

We know a lot of people talk about boosters. And we’re not saying they aren’t useful in certain applications. But personally, we find it an unnecessary expense.

A cellular booster will boost weak cellular signals for a single device when placed in close proximity to the booster. When we started RVing full-time, we relied on our portable WiFi device for the internet. We got a cellular booster and placed the Jetpack (or an iPhone) in the cradle to boost the signal as needed.

Here’s a great piece of advice from RV internet experts, Chris and Cherie of the Mobile Internet Resource Center, who shared some top tech tips in our latest book RV HACKS .

Is it worth adding a cellular booster?

A few years ago, we added the newer WeBoost 4G-X RV cellular booster to our internet arsenal. And while there’s nothing wrong with it, to be honest, we really just didn’t end up using or needing it. We mostly spend time in areas with decent cell coverage. Plus, at around $500, it was expensive for the little value it added to our internet setup.

We have found that our new internet solution – with the Pepwave Router, Rooftop Antenna and cellular data plans – works much better for our needs. But it’s like comparing apples and oranges as they are so different.

We recommend starting with one of the above MMH bundles first. If you realize later you need a booster, you can always add that to your internet arsenal later. Right now, you’d be better off putting your money towards a router antenna bundle to get the core equipment.

Julie’s working outside the RV. Photo Credit: GabrielaPhoto.com

How To Get Started With Your RV Internet

Are you ready to get the right internet set up for you now? Are you wanting to get an internet connection in your RV for work/business, education, managing your investments, or entertainment? Want to keep learning before you make a decision?

Here are your next steps:

Happy with your existing data plan? But if you ae looking for a more robust and stable hardware solution with better connectivity/reception, check out the hardware bundles here .
Already have a router from Mobile Must Have? If you just want to get the cellular data plan, then click here for more info or to purchase .
Need a complete RV mobile internet setup? Grab a bundle with both hardware and data – to get the best internet and get online ASAP .
Want to learn even more? Dive into the many articles and videos at the Mobile Must Have website and Mobile Internet Resource Center – they also offer online courses at Mobile Internet University so you can learn at your own pace and even tailor your own RV internet solution.

It’s “Zoom time” in our motorhome “CC”

Want To Learn More? Save with a Discount Code?

We promised this article wouldn’t get too technical. But if you want to do a deeper dive into the technical specifications and information, or have questions about which setup is best for you, here are some excellent resources:
Mobile Must Have has a huge resource library of articles and videos to help answer your questions on this setup. Here’s the link to their Support Portal . There’s also a chat support feature if you need help working out which bundle or specific equipment is best for your needs. Use our discount code RVLOVE to save 5% on your purchases (except for cellular data plans).
The Mobile Internet Resource Center are the experts for all things mobile internet and have an immense library of articles, videos and reports on cellular data plans, gear testing, and information related to your connectivity options. They even have online courses to help you understand all the various options so you can create your own RV internet solution. You can access loads of their information for free, but if you do become an MIA member, you’ll save $5 on their annual membership or courses with our discount code RVLOVE .
You’ll also find more information about RV internet – including tips for staying connected and working from the road – and RV life, in our two bestselling books: RV Hacks: 400+ Ways to Make Life on the Road Easier, Safer, and More Fun , and Living the RV Life: Your Ultimate Guide to Life on the Road .

Both of these books feature the experience, tips and advice from the most trusted and experienced RV internet experts – Chris and Cherie of Mobile Internet Resource Center, Erik and Kala of Mobile Must Have – along with other RVers.

marc and julie of RVlove hold their 2 books with mountain backdrop

What Is Good RV Internet Worth To You?

Finally, while it is true that solid, reliable internet may not come cheap, we feel it is a reasonable price to pay for the freedom to live, work and travel anywhere, as we choose. The confidence and peace of mind that our RV internet setup offers is priceless.

Well, we hope you found this article informative and helpful and that it gets you well on your way to awesome connectivity! Happy travels!

Our Casita Travel Trailer and Jeep, which we travelled in part time. Instead of a permanent mount, we used the Pepwave Router with built-in antennas. It sits inside a cabinet, with a cellular data plan/SIM card.

Our part time RV. Roof mounted Pepwave antenna, Pepwave router inside. Dual SIM cards with speed fusion.

GOT COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS?

We would love to hear from you. Drop us a note in the comments section below.

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9 thoughts on “what’s the best rv internet setup 2024 update”.

hey guys! have been watching your youtube stuff and reading your blog– thank you so much for all that you do! my wife and i are total newbies. I am pretty comfortable with technology but the thought of drilling holes, mounting, running wire , etc. makes my blood run cold. What/who would you recommend for installing all the gear? Did you do it yourselves? An initial google search in my area does not pull up any businesses that advertise installing internet stuff in an RV. Will a RV dealer offer this service? thanks!!!!

Hi John, Yes, we did it ourselves, and know tons of other people who do it themselves too. It isn’t very difficult in most cases. But if you are not comfortable, yes, many RV dealers could do the more unsettling part of drilling into the roof and running the wires. I believe MobileMustHave.com has a few installation videos so you can get a feel for it, including the video of when we did the installation into our recent Class C motorhome. -Thank you.

Hi Marc & Julie, How is the Pepwave Mobility 42G antenna working out? Mobilemusthave is recommending the Parsec Husky antenna. Is there a particular reason you didn’t go with the Parsec Husky antenna when Erik helped you with the install? I believe the Pepwave Mobility 42G is a good antenna for my cat 7 modem. I’m just curious if you had any further advice to help with my decision Regards Gene

the team at MMH and RVMIRC are always on top of the best gear, so I would probably go with whichever they are recommending at the time of purchase. That said, we have been super happy with the Pepwave antenna on this rig. We had a different one on our previous RV that also worked well. Their knowledge on gear has always been, and will always be superior to mine, so I will always defer tech details to them. I’m sure you will get a great set up either way. -M

What is the length of the cables from the outside antenna and how much diameter does the conduit need to be to be able to fit them thru??

Hi Mike, We don’t have the coach we installed that in anymore. But, from memory, the cables were about 6 feet long. Where I installed it, I would have only needed 3 though. I would guess you would need at least a 1 inch conduit. I had a hole a bit more than an inch across. But, since I didn’t need to run a long distance, I didn’t need to run all cables through at the same time. The folks at MobileMustHave.com will surely have more detailed specs and advice if you call, or use the chat feature on their website. Hope that helps. -M

Just yesterday (Monday, August 30, 2021) NBC Today Show staff reporting LIVE from various locations in New Orleans that people who were AT&T customers had NO cell service!!! That’s NIL, ZIP, NADA cell phone service from AT&T! This is a LIFE THREATENING condition! NBC also reported that T-Mobile and Verizon customers HAD good cell service. The Last time I was an AT&T customer, AT&T “service” ranged from poor to non-existent. I’m currently a T-Mobile customer and, my experience over 3+ years, T-Mobile customer service has ranged from GOOD to EXCELLENT. I have a T-Mobile plan where I get 100GB of data (5G where available, otherwise 4G) for $50 / MONTH (I purched the 5G/4G MiFi device outright)! That’s in addition to the on phone data AND tethering. I see NO reason to EVER go back to AT&T.

Hi John, Wow, sure sounds like you aren’t a fan of AT&T! LOL. We have had issues with them in the past too, but not connectivity (more of a back office error). We have had accounts with all 3 major carriers over the years. We, too, have been very happy with our T-Mobile for cell phone, it’s been excellent. Our article is shared to educate people about the various options available. Glad you have a plan you are happy with! The new 300GB from AT&T is the only one we know of from a major carrier with sufficient data for working RVers who need a large amount of data. We’re not here to convince anyone of anything, just to share our experience – people can make their own choices and decisions. Cheers.

A couple points on the setup you have (because we have the same, from Mobile Must Have). • As of an email last week, they don’t have a Verizon reseller yet. (We opted for AT&T which has been great, except here at the Elkhart Co. Fairgrounds, for about half the day.) • If you find you’re having low connectivity between the router and your computer (not the Pepwave to AT&T), you can replace one of the Wifi antenna cables (to the Poynting) with one of the little antennas for better indoor reception. • You can merge almost everything in the rig to it, using another switch (we have a TP-Link 16 port). But you MAY not be able to move the OneControl setup to it (if you have that), and still have to switch WiFi’s to control the “house”. • The Max Transit Duo also allows you to re-configure the WAN port as a secondary LAN port! • The MTD device has MASSIVE capabilities, you can run multiple networks, multiple Wifi SSID’s, create “guest” networks, and more. (I really had to dig into it trying to get the OneControl on it. I’m ALMOST there!) • The Max Transit also has direct wiring for 12V. Just be sure to add an inline fuse if you don’t have it wired into a fuse box. (And a separate disconnect can be useful.) This way, you can use it in your tow vehicle while driving. (Like for a fifth wheel or travel trailer.) We even bought adapters from Amazon to remove some of the “big plugs”, to minimize going from DC to AC (via inverter) just to go back to DC.

Best internet for travelling Australia

Posted by Emma Bradstock 19/04/2024

Thankfully, there is still remote internet access in Australia, no matter your internet usage needs. In this guide, we take a look at your options for internet while travelling Australia.

The best internet for travelling Australia

Travelling across Australia doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice an internet connection. There are several different options available and finding the best internet for travelling Australia will depend on which of these options suit your needs:

A mobile broadband plan
Starlink internet
Postpaid or prepaid phone plan with plenty of data and/or data banking
A home wireless broadband plan (provided you have mains power)
Choosing accommodation with an internet connection available

The above options may be the most reliable choices for remote internet access in Australia. However, not all of these travel internet types will suit your needs, and many of them rely on good mobile network coverage. If you’re unsure if coverage is available, check your chosen provider’s website for more information.

Best internet for travelling Australia: Mobile broadband

Mobile broadband is probably the best and most reliable form of internet while travelling Australia. It uses a 4G or 5G mobile network, just like mobile phone plans, to connect you to the internet.

These plans can come in the form of a data-only SIM card , which you can put in a tablet device like iPad, or even your smartphone. Other mobile broadband plans will include the data-only SIM card and a portable modem or dongles as part of your plan. You can typically connect your devices to the portable modem’s WiFi network, whereas a dongle may not have the WiFi network and only offer internet access to the device you plug it into, such as a laptop.

Choosing which mobile broadband plan will suit you best depends on which devices, and how many of them, will need to access the internet. It’s also worth noting that mobile broadband or data-only plans typically come with smaller data inclusions and may have an expiry period, much like a prepaid phone plan.

Southern Phone

Telstra Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Telstra mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Vodafone Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Vodafone mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Amaysim Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Amaysim mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Southern Phone Mobile Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Southern Phone mobile broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Best internet for travelling Australia: Starlink Australia

Starlink has only been an internet option for Australians since 2021, however, its use of satellite technology makes it a good option for remote internet access in Australia — and one of the best internet for travelling Australia options. While Starlink is typically fixed to your home, there is a more portable version of Starlink for RVs. Keep in mind that Starlink can be rather expensive and may need to be installed to your RV, rather than the easier to set up portable modems used for mobile broadband.

Big data phone plans for travelling

A relatively simple solution could be to upgrade your phone plan’s data inclusions and use a mobile hotspot to connect your devices. While Telstra , Optus and Vodafone all offer ‘unlimited’ data on postpaid mobile plans in addition to a monthly high-speed data allowance, this ‘unlimited’ or endless data is going to be speed-capped and might not be available to use with a hot spot.

That’s where a phone plan with a big data allowance could come in handy. There are plenty of prepaid and postpaid phone plans with big data inclusions to choose from. However, keep in mind that some prepaid plans with 100GB of data or more, could be a long-expiry plan. These plans usually cost a lot upfront and the large data allowance is meant for use over a six month, 12 month or 365-day expiry period.

Postpaid Plans
Prepaid Plans

The following table shows a selection of SIM-only postpaid plans with a minimum of 40GB data on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of their standard monthly cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. Use our tool for simple mobile phone plan comparison to easily compare plans from a range of providers. This is a selection of products with links to a referral partner.

The following table shows a selection of SIM-only prepaid plans with a minimum of 40GB data on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of their standard monthly cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. Use our tool for simple mobile phone plan comparison to easily compare plans from a range of providers. This is a selection of products with links to a referral partner.

Home wireless broadband plans for internet while travelling Australia

Home wireless broadband, sometimes called 4G home internet or 5G home internet, can be another option for internet while travelling Australia. It operates similar to mobile broadband in that is uses a 4G or 5G mobile network for internet access. However it isn’t portable like mobile broadband and is designed as a home internet solution, where the modem will need to be connected to a power source. These plans will also most likely have large or unlimited data inclusions.

While it is not the best internet for travelling Australia, if you’re in a situation where you can plug the modem into a powerpoint — such as a holiday home, a caravan with mains power, or taking a generator with you — and you have high internet usage needs, it could still work as internet for travellers in Australia.

iiNet Wireless Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published iiNet home wireless broadband plans from Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of their standard monthly cost, from the lowest to highest. This is a selection of products with links to a referral partner.

TPG Wireless Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published TPG home wireless broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of standard monthly cost, from the lowest to highest. This is a selection of products with links to a referral partner.

Optus 4G Home Internet Plans

The following table shows a selection of Optus 4G Home Internet plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Vodafone 4G Home Internet Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Vodafone 4G home broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest.

Southern Phone Wireless Broadband Plans

The following table shows a selection of published Southern Phone wireless broadband plans on Canstar Blue’s database, listed in order of cost, from the lowest to highest and then by data allowance, largest to smallest. This is a selection of products with links to referral partners.

Find accommodation that offers internet access

The last option — which may be the easiest way of getting online — is finding accommodation that provides its own internet, typically through a WiFi signal. There’s no guarantee that your campsite, holiday park or other accomodation site will have an internet connection available; there’s also no guarantee that your connection will be all that fast or reliable. However, if reliable internet access is essential for your travels, you may want to choose your accommodation sites specifically with this in mind.

How do I choose the best internet for travelling Australia?

Deciding which option listed above will be the best for remote internet access in Australia, will largely depend on your internet needs and how you’re travelling.

For example, if you’re travelling with other people, having something you can all use, such as a mobile broadband plan and portable modem or Starlink connected to an RV, will allow more people to connect to the network, compared to using your mobile phone’s hotspot or a single dongle for your laptop.

The type of accommodation will also make a difference. If you’re staying in a holiday home or other accommodation with access to powerpoints, home wireless broadband could work well if you have high internet usage needs. However, for camping, mobile broadband will be a better option.

Of course, no matter which internet type you choose, you’ll need to check network coverage of the areas you’re travelling to, to ensure you’ll have internet access.

How do I use my internet while I’m travelling?

Whatever broadband type you opt for, you can connect through your device or computer’s internet or network settings, just as you would for home WiFi. Before you do this though, check the following:

For home wireless broadband plans, make sure your modem is plugged in, and you have the required password.
For WiFi available in your accommodation, make sure you check costs, data allowances, and get the required information such as passwords and terms and conditions.

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Billing periods usually range from 28 to 31 days, but can vary - contact the provider for the billing period costs and inclusions.

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The search results do not include all providers or products, and may not compare all features relevant to you.
Advertised data (per billing, and monthly cost as shown in the table may not be the same as the amounts per billing period). Contact Provider for the billing period costs and inclusions.
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Canstar Blue may earn a fee for referrals from its website tables, and from sponsorship of certain products. Fees payable by product providers for referrals and sponsorship may vary between providers, website position, and revenue model. Sponsorship fees may be higher than referral fees. Sponsored products are clearly disclosed as such on website pages. They may appear in a number of areas of the website such as in comparison tables, on hub pages and in articles. Sponsored products may be displayed in a fixed position in a table, regardless of the product's rating, price or other attributes. The table position of a Sponsored product does not indicate any ranking or rating by Canstar. The table position of a Sponsored product does not change when a consumer changes the sort order of the table. For more information please see How Are We Funded .

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Stay connected on holiday: Activate UAE roaming services before you travel

Living in uae.

How to choose data packs, get connected quickly and stay in touch with loved ones

Dubai: If you are planning to go on a holiday, make sure you have your mobile connectivity needs sorted, by activating the roaming services on your phone. Telecommunications service providers in the UAE offer easy ways for users to subscribe to roaming services through different online options, where you can choose the data or call allowance as per your travel needs.

Here is a quick guide on how you can activate roaming services, and how to choose data roaming packs for your mobile in the UAE.

If you are an Etisalat user, chances are that your roaming services would have already been activated on your phone, when your phone line was issued. However, if you have previously deactivated international roaming, you would need to call 101 to activate them before you travel.

How to enable data roaming on your phone

For iOS devices, go to Settings > Cellular Data Options > and switch on Data Roaming. For Android devices, go to Settings > Mobile network > select the SIM > and switch on Data Roaming.

Before you travel – purchase the ‘roaming add-on’

On its website, etisalat.ae, the service provider states: “We highly recommend purchasing a roaming add-on before you travel.”

This add-on clearly lets you know how much you will pay for the service, and the data and call allowance you will get, while you are travelling. You can select your add-on package through the following ways:

- ‘My Etisalat UAE’ app, which is available for Apple, Android and Huawei devices. Open the app, and select your account. Then select the ‘add-on’ option, to choose the package you wish to subscribe to. - Dial *177# and then select from daily, weekly or monthly roaming packs. - Visit Etisalat website – Etisalat.ae. Go to ‘my account’ on the top right, and click on ‘sign in’ and then click on your account. Select the ‘add-on’ from the purchased subscriptions.

You can also call the etisalat customer care hotline at 101, which is also accessible for free when you are abroad.

What should I do if I cannot connect to a roaming partner network?

Once you reach your destination and the phone does not connect to a roaming partner network at your destination, Etisalat recommends restarting your phone. If you have set your mobile network selection to ‘automatic’, your phone will connect to the best available network.

You can also turn off the automatic selection and you will be prompted with a list of all available networks.

Before you travel, send an SMS with the text ‘roaming’ to 5102, to check if your line is activated with roaming services. If you want to buy a roaming bundle, make sure you check the preferred partners in the country you are travelling to. Also, you need to have a 3G/4G/5G phone to use your roaming data bundles abroad.

Then, make sure the Data Roaming option is enabled on your phone, by going to settings, and then ‘Data Roaming’ and switch on the option.

Du also recommends setting up a PIN for your phone and SIM, in case they are lost or stolen. In case your phone is lost or stolen, report it by calling du immediately on +971555678155 so that your line can be suspended for five days, to prevent the misuse of your line.

How to subscribe to a data roaming package

You can subscribe to the data roaming pack through:

1. The website – myaccount.du.ae 2. The du smartphone application, which is available for Apple, Android and Huawei devices. 3. By calling 155 - Click on the three dots next to the name of your plan - Select Manage Roaming - Choose the destination you are travelling to and then activate roaming.

Once you reach your destination, du recommends that you restart your phone after which your phone will automatically connect to one of the local networks. If it doesn’t, you can manually search for the network on your phone’s settings and connect to the desired network.

You will then receive a welcome message and can check your data balance on the ‘du’ app or on the website mydata.du.ae.

You should regularly receive SMS notifications when you have used up 70 per cent, 80 per cent and 100 per cent of your bundle.

Virgin mobile

If you are a Virgin Mobile user, you can choose your roaming data through the Virgin Mobile app, which is available for Apple and Android devices. Once you log in, you will get two options to choose from:

1. ‘Roam Like Home’ roaming pass

With this option, you don't need to buy any additional roaming packs; all you need to do is activate a Roaming Pass through the Virgin Mobile app to start using your local data and international minutes, which can be used in over 140 countries.

2. Subscribe to roaming packs

You can buy separate roaming data or minutes through the Virgin Mobile app starting, depending on the data and call allowance you need, as well as the duration of travel.

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T-Mobile’s New Internet Plan Lets You Travel With It for $160

We may earn a commission when you click links to retailers and purchase goods. More info.

Frequently roadtrippin’ people with an RV or who like to camp or are stilling clinging to #vanlife, T-Mobile has a new internet plan for you. Be warned, it is not cheap if you want unlimited data.

Called “T-Mobile Away,” this is an internet plan that costs $160 per month for access to unlimited data, includes a gateway device (that needs to be plugged in), allows for up to 64 device connections at a time, will keep you connected while in-motion, and uses all of T-Mobile’s 5G and 4G network. There’s also a $110 per month version that gets you 200GB of data. Both prices require autopay.

Who really is this plan for? T-Mobile really is suggesting it’s for “frequent travelers like RVers, campers and digital nomads.” As someone who isn’t a part of that crowd today, I don’t know what it’s like to need internet on the road 24-7. In the comparison above, I can see that there are several options to choose from, but T-Mobile is saying (of course) that it’s new Away plan is the best because of its feature set. I’ll let you decide, traveling friends.

The new plan goes live May 8.

// T-Mobile

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What Is 5G Home Internet? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

3D rendering of WiFi symbol coming out of a house icon.

Sick of slow, expensive, or unreliable internet service? You probably are. Internet service providers (ISPs) came second to last in a study of customer satisfaction by industry in the US last year. For most folks, internet service comes into the house via cable, and choices are limited. But with mobile carriers rolling out fast, low-latency 5G networks, that is changing.

For some people, 5G home internet could be a viable alternative to traditional broadband. Carriers are starting to offer 5G home internet packages as they look to recoup the costs of upgraded networks, and that could finally mean some real competition for ISPs. If you’re wondering what 5G home internet is, how it compares to broadband, and whether it might be for you, we have all the answers you seek.

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What Does 5G Mean?

5G is a global wireless standard, and it stands for fifth generation. Mobile carriers have been rolling out the fifth generation of cellular networks over the past few years. Compared with the previous generation (4G), 5G opens up unused radio frequencies at the high end of the spectrum. You can read our guide to 5G to learn more, but in simple terms, 5G is faster, has lower latency, and can handle more connected devices.

What Is 5G Home Internet?

5G home internet is an alternative to traditional broadband. Instead of running a cable into your home to connect to the internet, you connect to the 5G cellular network wirelessly with a fixed receiver inside or outside your home. You will use a SIM card and have a service contract, just like you do for your phone. You'll still need a modem and router to convert the incoming signal into Wi-Fi and spread it around your home.

What About 4G Home Internet?

Some carriers already offer 4G LTE home internet, and some offer a mix of 4G and 5G. Both work the same way and require a receiver, but 5G allows faster speeds and lower latency. Theoretical speeds go beyond 10 Gbps with 1 millisecond of latency, but real-world performance around 1 Gbps is more common. A gigabit is enough for 5G to compete with broadband. 4G LTE typically maxes out at 100 Mbps but is often slower in the real world.

Is 5G Home Internet Better Than Broadband?

The short answer is no. The longer answer is that it depends. If you have fiber optic cable to your house, you can enjoy super fast wired internet, but if you rely on copper cable, your internet speed will be limited. The proximity of an exchange and internet demand in your area will also impact the speeds you get. Some folks lack a cable connection, but remote areas typically don’t have great 5G coverage. If you have solid 5G coverage in your area but internet service is poor or expensive, 5G home internet might be a better choice.

What Are the Advantages of 5G Home Internet?

5G home internet has a few advantages over wired broadband, but there are three big ones:

Since there is no need for a physical cable, installation of 5G home internet tends to be much easier, and you can likely set it up yourself without an engineer visit.
If you have good 5G coverage in your area, you can likely enjoy fast speeds, certainly much faster than old copper cables can provide.
5G home internet service might be cheaper than wired internet. Some carriers offer discounts and incentives to add 5G home internet service to your existing mobile plan.

What Are the Disadvantages?

There are pros and cons to everything. Here are some of the possible cons of 5G home internet:

Coverage is limited and is likely to be best in cities. If you don’t have good 5G coverage in your area, 5G home internet is not for you.
You will need a receiver with a good line of sight to a 5G cell site or tower for the best results. This may mean attaching an antenna to the outside of your home because 5G signals are not very good at penetrating through walls and can be prone to interference.
As 5G adoption grows and networks expand, you may find your 5G home internet service is impacted. When 5G networks get busier, your home internet may slow down or suffer interruptions.

Can I Get 5G Home Internet?

It depends on where you live and what 5G coverage is like in your area. This coverage map from nPerf allows you to select by carrier to see coverage and download speeds. You can also check with your preferred carrier (most have coverage maps on their websites), but most only offer 5G home internet service in specific areas (big cities for now).

Who Offers 5G Home Internet?

There are several options for folks looking to get 5G home internet service, but make sure you read the small print. Most carriers offer a blend of 4G LTE and 5G. You are likely to get the best deals from carriers you take multiple services from, so if you already have cell service, your carrier will likely offer a discount on home internet. Here’s an alphabetical list of US options to start with, but new services are rolling out all the time:

AT&T Internet Air
Starry Home Internet
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
US Cellular Home Internet
Verizon 5G Home Internet

If you’re in the UK, here are your options:

EE 4G and 5G Mobile Broadband
National Broadband 5G
Three 4G and 5G Home Broadband
Vodafone 5G and 4G Broadband

Is 5G Home Internet Expensive?

5G home internet prices are not hugely different from wired internet service. It may even be cheaper for some folks. 5G home internet plans start from as little as $15 a month (Starry), but most cost between $30 a month and $80 a month, depending on the speed and service you want. Many carriers offer discounts for existing customers and other incentives. Because they are keen to attract new customers, many 5G home internet services offer unlimited data, no fixed contracts, and no equipment fees. Just make sure you understand all of the conditions before you sign up.

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For millions of Americans, high-speed internet is unavailable or unaffordable − a telecommunications expert explains how to bring broadband to the places that need it the most

Pioneers Chair in Telecommunications & Professor of Telecommunications, Penn State

Disclosure statement

Christopher Ali does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

Penn State provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation US.

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Millions of Americans still don’t have access to high-speed internet . Christopher Ali , a professor of telecommunications at Penn State University, discusses who lacks access to broadband and how the federal government – with a US$65 billion commitment – is trying to bring more people online.

The Conversation has collaborated with SciLine to bring you highlights from the discussion that have been edited for brevity and clarity.

What is broadband internet?

Christopher Ali: Broadband internet, often just called broadband, is the technical term for high-speed internet connectivity .

The Federal Communications Commission , which is in charge of setting an official definition for broadband in the country, defines broadband as an always-on internet connection of 100 megabits-per-second download and 20 megabits-per-second upload .

But what high-speed internet fundamentally means to Americans is do we have the connectivity necessary to go about our digital lives. Can we stream Netflix? Can we go on Zoom? Can we file our taxes? Can we do our homework? Can we do our jobs? Can we game?

What can you tell us about disparities in broadband access?

Christopher Ali: One of the really frustrating things is, despite millions – tens of millions – of dollars spent on broadband mapping, we are still unsure of who is underconnected throughout the country.

Right now, the FCC reports that 7.2 million people lack access , but the commission numbers have been historically suspect. As a result, there are no doubt many more who are unserved and undercounted. In fact, the FCC repeatedly receives challenges to its broadband map.

Back in 2021, for instance, when the FCC reported that about 14 million people lacked internet access, an independent review found that 42 million people lacked access . That’s a huge discrepancy.

But one thing is certain: Broadband deserts are most often found in rural, remote and Indigenous areas .

It’s also clear that cost is part of the issue. Here in the U.S., we pay a tremendous amount of money – the most for internet access monthly than almost any other country in the developed world .

A program called the Affordable Connectivity Program subsidizes broadband for low-income families, and 50 million families across the country are eligible.

What benefits does broadband access provide?

Christopher Ali: Broadband access can aid with economic development . It can be a game changer when it comes to telehealth, especially for rural, remote and Indigenous communities , which often don’t have enough doctors and nurses. With telehealth, you can suddenly connect with a health care professional.

It aids in education. Some studies have found that access to broadband can impact grades and SAT scores , although there is disagreement about this . But the opportunities for students with broadband are undeniable – like applying online for college and student aid.

It contributes to civic engagement , allowing voters to contact local officials online. It impacts public safety , both in terms of our own safety as members of the public but also by allowing first responders to communicate online with their dispatch.

Broadband also helps sometimes with cultural enrichment, and we see this a lot with Indigenous communities , which can stream cultural and traditional events.

And it improves quality of life. Everyone enjoys being able to FaceTime with family and friends and go shopping online. These things were particularly essential during the COVID-19 pandemic .

The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program, passed as part of the 2023 infrastructure bill, allocates $42 billion in federal funds to expand broadband infrastructure. How can communities maximize its impact?

Christopher Ali: The money from the BEAD program is going to be managed by the states and not by the federal government. Each state receives a chunk of money, depending on the number of people who are unconnected. Texas, with more than 1 million unserved or underserved locations , will get $3.3 billion, the most of any state. Pennsylvania will get about $1.2 billion.

What states have done a particularly good job expanding broadband access?

Christopher Ali: Minnesota has done some amazing work over the past decade . As I discuss in my book “ Farm Fresh Broadband: The Politics of Rural Connectivity ,” Minnesota was one of the earliest states to create a broadband grant program – the Border-to-Border program – and has set really ambitious targets. Back in 2016, for instance, the state set up a goal of universal coverage at 100Mbps/20Mbps by 2026 .

Another state is Virginia, which really got a wake-up call during the pandemic, and it mobilized a lot of the federal money that came down the pipes to empower counties, cooperatives and local ISPs .

Vermont has done something called communication union districts . They’ve allowed communities to come together to use public funding to deploy broadband networks.

Public networks are going to be a game changer because they empower communities to connect themselves and direct their own digital futures – either with municipally funded networks, or cooperatives, or some sort of public-private partnerships.

Watch the full interview to hear more.

SciLine is a free service based at the American Association for the Advancement of Science, a nonprofit that helps journalists include scientific evidence and experts in their news stories.

Digital divide
Rural broadband

Project Offier - Diversity & Inclusion

Senior Lecturer - Earth System Science

Sydney Horizon Educators (Identified)

Deputy Social Media Producer

Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy

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