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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.

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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8 Best Ways to Get Internet for Travel

Home | Travel | 8 Best Ways to Get Internet for Travel

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Having Internet for travel has become essential, either to use apps while you’re away from home or to stay in touch with family and friends.

When you travel internationally, you may still be able to use your provider’s data plan. However, the cost of roaming is usually pretty high, so it’s better to find an alternative when planning a trip that won’t result in a huge phone bill when you get back home.

To help you know all your options, this guide includes the best ways to get Internet on the road and abroad.

But before we begin, I’ll tell you that we almost always use the Holafly eSIM card , which is ideal if you only need Internet on your phone. We even have a complete guide to Holafly so you can learn more about this service.

5% OFF your international eSIM card

For wireless Internet for travel on your phone and laptop, we recommend the other options below. So, keep reading to see which is the best method for you.

How to get Internet for travel

There are several ways to get travel Internet , so this article will explain the different methods, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. After reading through the options, you’ll be able to make the best choice for your trip!

In a nutshell, these are the 8 best ways to get Internet for travelers :

Local SIM card
Holafly eSIM card
International SIM card
Unlocked portable router
Solis portable router
Pocket Wi-Fi rental
Public Wi-Fi network

1. Local SIM card, a traditional way to get Internet for travel

A local SIM card is one affordable way to get travel Internet . That said, you may end up spending a lot of time looking for a suitable SIM card once you get to your destination, so it’s an option I don’t consider on my trips unless I’m traveling for more than a month.

In most countries, you can find a local SIM card at various points of entry, including airports, train stations, and bus terminals. I recommend asking around at different kiosks to find the SIM card with the most data for the price.

Also, make sure that the SIM card is compatible with your phone and also allows you to share data with other devices. This last bit is important if you’re traveling as a couple or family and don’t want to get stuck having to buy multiple SIM cards.

2. Holafly eSIM card, the simplest way to get travelling Internet

The Holafly eSIM card is my favorite option for traveling Internet . You can purchase it even if you’re already abroad since the eSIM arrives via email. This is, by far, the most convenient option, and it can even be cheaper than some local SIM cards.

Holafly is the eSIM card we use when we’re on the go and need a secure Internet connection while traveling , and we have a Holafly discount code for you if you choose this option.

To activate your global eSIM card , scan the QR code sent to you by email. I usually take a screenshot of the QR code on my phone, then send it over to Dan so I can scan the code off his phone, but if you’re traveling alone, you can print it out.

Installing and activating this eSIM is as quick and easy as using a physical card, with the convenience of not needing a smartphone with a dual SIM card slot. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you won’t lose your normal SIM card. However, not all devices support eSIM cards , so I recommend checking this link to make sure your phone is compatible.

Again, Holafly is the option we always turn to when we want Internet to travel , and we’ve never had any problems. Except for in extremely remote areas, we’ve always had very good service.

3. International SIM card, another good way to get travel Internet

Another travel Internet option is to use an international SIM card . Rather than buying a local SIM card at your destination, you can purchase an international SIM card before your trip and get it delivered to your home or even to the airport, depending on where you’re traveling to.

We like SimOptions , which partners with several well-known mobile providers like AT&T, Orange, and Three UK. They offer prepaid standard, micro, and nano-SIMs, so any mobile device should be compatible. You can check here our SimOptions review .

International SIM card, Internet for travel

These international SIM cards work in over 200 countries across Asia, North and South America, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia. As for the data plans, you can choose a package for the country you’re visiting (a European SIM card is also available.)

This is the best mobile Internet for traveling if you only want to use your phone abroad, and activating your SIM is as easy as unlocking your device and popping in the card.

4. Unlocked portable router, the cheapest travelers Internet

An unlocked portable router is another simple and useful way to get Internet for travel . Its primary benefit is that it allows you to connect several devices at once, including laptops. This makes it an ideal option for traveling with family or friends, as well as for work trips.

These portable routers are lightweight, so you can store them in a backpack or bag, and some are small enough for a pocket. Of course, if you choose to use one of these routers, remember that you’ll have to charge it every time you’re in your accommodation since the battery runs out after the day. It’s best to start the day with a full charge.

Unlocked portable router, Internet for travelers

Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to insert a compatible SIM card with network coverage for your destination, and not all SIM cards work with this type of device. You’ll have to purchase the SIM card once you reach your destination.

Once you insert the SIM card, simply connect your phone to the router, just as you would with your home Wi-Fi network. We recommend this router , which we’ve heard is very reliable from several travelers who have used it.

5. Solis portable router, an ideal way to get Internet during travel

Another travel Internet network option is buying a Solis portable router . This is the perfect option for frequent travelers who need Internet on their laptops and travel to multiple countries. Rather than having to buy a new SIM card at each destination, they can use their Internet travel router to work from their laptop.

Solis portable router, Internet to travel

With the Solis portable router, you can have mobile data, just like at home, all without the need for contracts, SIM cards, and added fees. Simply choose the plan you want here , which includes plans for the U.S., Europe, and over 130 countries worldwide.

To securely connect to the Internet while traveling , you just need to download the Solis Wi-Fi app, select your plan, and connect to the network, the same as you would do with your home router. If you don’t like any of the Solis plans, you can also opt to pay per GB. So, no matter what you choose, this is a quick and practical way to have internet on the go.

6. USB dongle, a good way to connect to the Internet when traveling

A USB dongle also offers Internet when traveling , although I specifically recommend this option for those who will need to connect with a laptop more often than with a mobile device.

One of the USB dongles that I recommend is this one . It’s one of the best and generates a shared Wi-Fi network that simultaneously works as a portable router. That said, it must be connected to a battery to work, either to the laptop’s battery or a USB plug. So, it’s not the ideal Internet travel solution , especially if you want Internet access while sightseeing in a city.

Compared to the other options, this isn’t the best choice for travelers looking for a travel Internet package deal. USB dongles tend to be limited in speed and stability, plus you’ll also need to buy a SIM card at your destination.

On the other hand, if you travel for work and need Internet on your laptop, a USB dongle can be a suitable option, although I think the unlocked portable router or Solis plan is more practical.

7. Pocket Wi-Fi rental, a popular travel Internet option

Pocket Wi-Fi is nothing more than a portable router that you can rent for travel Internet . Some countries in Asia, such as Japan and Thailand, offer this option. In Japan, it’s against the law to buy a local SIM card if you’re not a Japanese resident, so your options are limited to an Holafly eSIM, the Solis router, or a pocket Wi-Fi rental at your destination.

Pocket Wi-Fi rental, best travel Internet

One of the main benefits of a pocket Wi-Fi router is that you can get it from the airport, so you can connect to the Internet as soon as you land. You can even rent it ahead of time and pick it up when you arrive.

We have a whole guide to portable Wi-Fi for travel , but I’ll mention here that this is a great option for a one-off trip since you can rent the device by the day, week, or per GB limit. Also, it allows you to connect different devices, including laptops. On the other hand, it’s not a great choice if you’re going to be making additional trips, as you’ll have to return the router, then rent a new one.

8. Public Wi-Fi network, another good way to get travelling Internet

Finally, another travel Internet option is to connect to a public Wi-Fi network . The main advantage here is that it’s totally free and compatible with any type of device. However, Internet access may not always be available since public Wi-Fi is only found in airports, hotels, and some restaurants. This means that you won’t have Internet access while on the go or sightseeing.

Public Wi-Fi network, travel Internet solution

Another drawback of a public Wi-Fi network is that it can be unstable regarding speed and connectivity, especially when many people are connected at once. There are also quite a few privacy and security concerns. However, if you’re taking a short trip that’s not going to require much Internet usage, it’s a decent option for staying in touch with friends or family, checking email, and browsing social media.

What is the best travel Internet option?

For occasional trips, and if you only want travel Internet on your mobile device, the best option is the Holafly eSIM card .

To be fair, this isn’t the cheapest Internet travel solution if you’re going to be at your destination long-term. In that case, it’s better to look for a local SIM card or, if you also need Internet on your laptop, an unlocked router like this one . A router is also a good idea for frequent travelers since it guarantees a strong connection, and you can create a stable Wi-Fi network to share data with others.

Travel Internet on a laptop, Internet for travelers

For those who need to work on a computer but are traveling to many countries in the short term, the Solis portable router is more convenient, as you don’t have to buy a local SIM card in each country you visit.

There are more specific options like the USB dongle, which are designed for those who want Internet access while traveling internationally , specifically on a laptop. The pocket Wi-Fi is good for occasional travelers who work from a laptop but aren’t allowed to purchase a local SIM card at their destination. Lastly, a public Wi-Fi network is suitable for people who don’t mind being off the Internet for most of the day.

Our experience with using Internet for travel

We use Holafly’s eSIM cards to get Internet for international travel , and it’s always worked very well for us. It provides great coverage and allows me and Dan to access the web without any issues. Moreover, the eSIM arrives right in our email, so we can purchase it last minute.

When we travel in our van, we use the Solis portable router and pay by GB. I love that the data never expires, so we recharge it with more data any time we run out. We get good coverage, speed, and network stability. In fact, we’ll use this option when we travel to South America next year.

Caravan on the beach, secure Internet connection while traveling

It’s clear that your travel Internet options will depend on the type of trip you’re taking, as well as your Web accessibility needs, so I hope this guide helps you choose the best solution for you! If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I’ll try to help you in any way I can.

Have a great trip!

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Ascen Aynat

Tarjetas Holafly opiniones - Descuentos Holafly

8 replies on “ 8 Best Ways to Get Internet for Travel ”

We will be traveling by motorhome through many states and will end up in Oklahoma and will be looking to purchase a home to be closer to our daughter. We need some way to connect to the internet for our PC (not laptop) for everyday use. Is this possible? Thanks for your help.

Hi, Yes, it’s possible with a Wi-Fi dongle or router.

I’m so glad I found this! I’m not tech savvy at all!! We are traveling to a beach house in Alabama without any type of internet connections so not streaming tv, no tik tok (gasp from my teens). We all have phones but from what I understand, service is spotty. Any suggestions on something we can use to maybe stream netflix or hulu and keeps the kids happy with access to tik tok? 🙂

Hi Christy, I’m partial to this Solis portable router , which we use when we’re traveling and need to work remotely. It gives us travel Internet on our laptops, so it could be a good option for your trip.

My daughter is travelling to Japan 1 week London 1 week Europe 29 day TopDeck Tour then Dubai 1 week. She needs internet on her laptop to do uni assignments, what is the best recommendation please ? Thank you

Hi Kim, We love using our Solis portable router to do remote work while abroad. Highly recommend it!

I only need the internet for travelling around England and maybe Scotland what is the best way to have the internet when traveling around these places.

Are you going to use the internet in the phone, computer or both? How long are you going to be in England?

With the info you provided, I can only recommend you check the Holafly SIM cards .

Let me know if you have any questions, Ascen

How to Get High-Speed Wi-Fi While Traveling

Connectivity for multiple users
High price for mobile data

Affordable prices
Flexible plan options
Complicated setup

Cheap prices (or free)
Wide availability in big cities
Slow speeds
Working connection on the road
Affordable prices for plans
Safety risks (don’t Wi-Fi and drive!)

Reliable connection in rural areas
Unlimited data on most plans
Extremely high prices

There are a bunch of ways you can get high-speed Wi-Fi while you’re traveling. A mobile hotspot is the easiest and most reliable option, giving you Wi-Fi access for multiple devices whether you’re on a long drive, staying at a vacation home, or even traveling abroad. Hotels and restaurants also often have free Wi-Fi for customers, while other ways to get portable Wi-Fi include built-in car hotspots and fixed wireless internet plans for RVs.

Below we take a deep dive into all your pocket Wi-Fi options for when you’re traveling. Take a look to find the best way to stay connected on your next trip.

Best ways to get Wi-Fi while traveling:

Best for short trips — Phones and mobile hotspots
Best for traveling internationally — Travel hotspots and SIM cards
Best for budget travelers — Hotel or restaurant Wi-Fi
Best for road trips — Your car’s built-in hotspot
Best for RVs and digital nomads — Portable 4G or satellite internet

Best for short trips: Phones and mobile hotspots

A hotspot—whether it’s the one on your phone or a separate mobile device—is the easiest and quickest tool you can use to get Wi-Fi while traveling. As long as you have a data plan and network coverage where you’re traveling, all you need to do is switch on the Wi-Fi hotspot to provide internet access for multiple laptops, tablets, and phones.

Your phone’s hotspot works great for lots of situations, and most phone plans come with hotspot data, so using one doesn’t tax your wallet.

But we recommend investing in a standalone mobile hotspot if you need Wi-Fi for multiple users or extended periods—for example, if you’re taking a few hours to get work done at your vacation home. Mobile hotspots have longer range than a phone hotspot, they connect more devices, and they don’t strain your phone’s battery.

Limited speeds depending on the hotspot
Unreliable service in some places

Best mobile hotspots

Data as of 7/11/22. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Amazon.com Price as of 7/11/22 10:30 MST. See full disclaimer .

T-Mobile’s Inseego 5G MiFi M2000 is the most formidable mobile hotspot out there, delivering excellent speeds over T-Mobile’s 4G LTE and 5G networks. It can connect up to 30 devices—making it an excellent option for big groups—and comes with security features to set up guest networks and firewalls. T-Mobile also has the best prices on data plans, offering lots of flexibility for whenever you need it.

Keep in mind that you need a data plan to make your hotspot work. Look at our hotspot data plans guide for details on the best (and cheapest) monthly and prepaid options.

Best phone plans for hotspotting

*With AutoPay. Regularly $60/mo.

Data as of 7/11/22. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Almost any phone plan gives you hotspot data nowadays, and if you don’t have data, then you can likely add hotspotting for a modest fee. You don’t really need to pick out a cell phone plan just for the hotspot data.

But if you’re in the market, you can’t go wrong with AT&T’s flagship Unlimited Premium plan, which gives you the most hotspot data for your dollar. T-Mobile’s Magenta MAX plan also has a generous offer on hotspot data (albeit you get 10 GB less than the AT&T plan). Verizon’s 5G Do More plan comes with the least amount of data, but it includes a discount for a separate hotspot plan.

Best for traveling internationally: Travel hotspots and international SIM cards

The easiest and cheapest way to get internet abroad is to stick to hotel and restaurant Wi-Fi. But if you really need internet while abroad—for example, if you’re working remotely or need to make regular Zoom calls to family back home—we recommend getting a SIM card from a local phone carrier in the country you’re visiting.

Setup can be tricky, especially if you’re in a place where you don’t speak the language: you have to go to a phone store to buy a SIM card and set up an account, which usually requires you to show your passport and sign some paperwork. But these inconveniences are a small price to pay. Many countries have cheap options for phone plans and data, and getting a SIM card is often affordable.

Affordable prices (many countries have low-cost cellular plans)
Time-consuming and potentially stressful setup
Limited connectivity if you’re traveling in multiple countries

Best travel hotspots

Amazon.com Price (as of 7/11/22 10:15 MST). See full disclaimer .

Huawei’s E5577Cs-321 may not have the prettiest name, but it’s a handy device. The 4G hotspot is compatible with providers across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, so you can swap in a SIM card and get the Wi-Fi flowing (almost) wherever you go.

GlocalMe G4 Pro is another interesting option. It doesn’t require a SIM card; instead, GlocalMe has its own data plans, which provide coverage in more than 140 countries, according to the manufacturer.

We’re hesitant to recommend devices in general like these because you have no way of knowing how well the hotspot actually works (if at all) until you’ve already bought the thing and gone on your trip. But the G4 Pro gets good reviews online, it’s easy to handle, and it comes with a pre-installed Google Maps app to help out in case you get lost.

Best for budget travelers: Hotel and restaurant Wi-Fi

Nothing beats hotel Wi-Fi, am I right? Most hotels and restaurants nowadays offer free Wi-Fi with their services, and anyone who’s ever spent a long layover in Paris or Istanbul knows how convenient free Wi-Fi can be.

Traveling on a budget? Go ahead and skip all the fancy stuff; don’t worry about adjusting your phone plan or buying a pricey hotspot. Just stick to the free Wi-Fi at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

See below for a list of places where you can find public Wi-Fi (including lots of free options). And consider investing in a travel router and VPN to boost your signal range and increase browser security.

Cheap price (included with a hotel room or drink)
Limited availability in rural areas
Higher security risk

Where to find free Wi-Fi

Restaurants
Coffee shops
Public libraries
Government buildings
University campuses
Airport terminals
Public parks

Popular restaurant and retail chains with free Wi-Fi:

Burger King
Lowe’s Home Improvement
Dunkin’ (formerly Dunkin’ Donuts)
Peet’s Coffee
Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
Tim Hortons
Panera Bread

Use a travel router to give your travel Wi-Fi a boost

A travel router is a small device that improves your connection and increases your security while you’re plugged into a public Wi-Fi network.

It lets you set up a private network using an Ethernet connection from a public hotspot. So if you’re at a hotel, you can plug the travel router into a hotel-provided internet access point like an Ethernet switch or hub. When you run the Wi-Fi through your travel router, it lets you bypass encryption and firewalls, connect more devices, and increase your signal range.

Best travel router

Best for road trips: car wi-fi and built-in hotspots.

Many newer vehicles—especially deluxe models and family sedans—have onboard Wi-Fi hotspots that give you internet access on the go.

We definitely don’t recommend using Wi-Fi while you’re driving a car. But so long as you’re safely paying attention to the road, an in-car hotspot is great because it lets your friends and family enjoy Wi-Fi access on long drives and road trips to watch movies, play games, and even get work done if necessary.

Take a look at our guide to car Wi-Fi for details on how to set up a hotspot in your vehicle.

Best car internet plans

Data as of 9/6/22. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Many cars with built-in Wi-Fi hotspots need a data plan from AT&T. Prices and features vary based on the make and model of your vehicle, but expect to pay around $15 to $25 per month for a data plan. Some cars let you get data through Verizon or T-Mobile—namely Volkswagens and vehicles that use T-Mobile’s SyncUP DRIVE system.

Working connection even while driving
Affordable prices for Wi-Fi plans
Safety risk—don’t use Wi-Fi while driving!

Best for digital nomads: Portable 4G LTE or satellite internet

RVs and Sprinter vans typically have built-in systems for utilities like water and gas, but if you’re living on the road then you need to figure out a separate system for the Wi-Fi. Mobile hotspots and Wi-Fi extenders are excellent and affordable tools to get you internet in many places, but both come with technical limitations and aren’t adequate replacements for a proper home internet network.

A 4G LTE or satellite internet plan gives you a consistent connection for wherever you travel. 4G internet is already a popular choice for rural areas, and these plans work as mobile connections that can be set up anywhere. Satellite usually isn’t mobile, but Starlink has just introduced a plan for RVs that provides extensive nationwide coverage. Setup and billing costs can really add up with these plans, but the benefits include sturdier equipment and unlimited data.

Best 4G LTE and satellite internet plans

Data as of 7/8/22. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Nomad Internet is one of the best choices for RVs because its portable 4G internet plan doesn’t have a data cap. Hotspots don’t give you enough data to let you stream movies, make video calls, or work remotely for more than just a weekend or two, so having unlimited data makes a huge difference when you’re living out of a vehicle full time.

Starlink for RVs also comes with unlimited data. Its setup price is a lot higher, but Starlink has relatively fast speeds and excellent coverage across wide swathes of the rural West.

Great setup for RVs
Challenging setup with potential technical issues
Expensive price

Our verdict

When it comes down to it, a mobile hotspot is the best way to get pocket Wi-Fi on the road. Hotspots are affordable, easy to use, and compatible both in the United States and overseas (so long as you have one certified to do so). Even your phone’s hotspot and a SIM card with a data plan works wonders in many cases.

If you’re worried about costs, remember you can often find a restaurant or hotel with free Wi-Fi, especially in major cities and tourist areas. For living out of an RV, though, you’re better off with a portable 4G LTE or satellite internet plan, which offers you more consistent connections even in rural areas.

FAQ about getting Wi-Fi while traveling

Does portable wi-fi work with a sim card.

Yes, you can get a SIM card to get portable Wi-Fi. You can sign up for a data plan from a cellular carrier in the area where you’re traveling and install the SIM card into your phone or a mobile hotspot to get Wi-Fi access on multiple devices.

How much does portable Wi-Fi cost?

Portable Wi-Fi ranges in price but usually costs $25 to $60 per month. Your phone plan or hotspot plan gives you enough data to support portable Wi-Fi for a range of devices and usually comes at an affordable price—although you may have strict limits on data use.

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

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

How To Get Internet While Traveling

Find the Best ISP with Our Expert Reviews

Get full expert reviews on all the major internet providers! Compare up-to-date details on prices, speeds, hidden fees, data caps, and more.

Table of Contents

Internet access has transformed travel with helpful information only a click away. When you’re traveling, an internet connection can supply you with maps, resources, and assistance. Getting online can often be even more important to you as a traveler than when you’re at home.

In this guide, you’ll learn ways to get on the internet no matter where you’re headed. Maybe you’ve just landed your first remote work position, and you’re going to hit the road with your laptop. Maybe you’re a student traveling for a semester abroad in Europe. Or maybe you’re just taking a much-deserved vacation to sit on the beach sipping a cold drink. Here’s an easy summary of all the best options for how you get internet while traveling.

Traveling On a Budget? Find Your Free Internet Connection

No matter what your travel budget is, you can find free Wi-Fi in many places in countries all around the world. Most people know that some of the best spots for free public Wi-Fi are coffee shops, bars, and restaurants. But there are more options for you when you’re traveling and you need to save money. Airports, bus terminals, university campuses and hospitals also have networks you can access at no charge. Some government facilities provide free Wi-Fi.

Even budget hotels now usually offer free Wi-Fi as an amenity with your room rental. So, if you are staying in hotels, don’t underestimate the benefit of those hours of free Wi-Fi! A hotel’s free internet portal can be a valuable home base where you can find out what’s going on in the area and plan your daily activities.

Libraries offer free public internet access, and much more

Public libraries are in a category all their own when it comes to resources to help you get online while traveling. Libraries offer free Wi-Fi, and they also provide free computer access. You can get a loaner laptop or tablet that you can carry around the library with you for convenience while browsing. Instead of sitting at a desk, you can sit in a comfy chair and listen to music or a video through headphones. Public libraries also offer free or low-cost printing services. If you work on the road or you just need to send in some forms, libraries are a perfect solution. Libraries can be a one-stop shop where you can get internet access along with many other free resources.

a list of safety tips for using public wi-fi

Wi-Fi safety and security while traveling

What’s not to love about free public Wi-Fi? Though it can be a wonderful boon to the budget, public Wi-Fi networks bring security risks. Most people have heard at least a few tips about how to stay safe when using public Wi-Fi . The FCC offers even more specialized security tips for people traveling abroad .

Travel routers enhance security

Another way to keep your personal information safe when you are using public Wi-Fi is to get your own travel router. These devices will turn public Wi-Fi signals into your own private Wi-Fi network. If you plan to use a lot of free public Wi-Fi, consider getting a travel router or a VPN to keep you safe online.

Free Wi-Fi for short-term international travelers

When you’re abroad, remember that just like your home country, many countries will offer public Wi-Fi hotspots where you can get online.

For travelers only going on short-term international trips, it may be easiest and least expensive to use public Wi-Fi for your internet access. Those public Wi-Fi hotspots can be a lifesaver. They can help you avoid some of the challenges of trying to make your data access portable when you’re traveling in foreign countries.

International Travel and Internet Access

Crossing international borders can be a big challenge to getting internet while traveling. Carriers and infrastructure will be different in every country. Using roaming data on your smartphone can become extremely expensive. You do not want to be charged at international roaming rates!

But don’t let the obstacles to international internet access intimidate you. Staying connected while traveling internationally can also be quite simple when you know all the options.

A man holds a cell phone in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

International plan from your current major provider

Some major ISPs will provide their subscribers with an international plan for a daily fee. That plan will save you money compared to standard international data roaming rates. The provider may text you on your smartphone after you land in a foreign country to offer you the option of enrolling in their international plan. Be aware that this plan is likely to be more expensive than several other internet options for international travelers. Such plans also can come with data caps that will be lower than data limits for other plans. Carriers such as AT&T and Verizon, for example, charge about $10 a day for their international data plans. SIM cards can offer significant savings from that rate.

SIM cards: one way to stay connected for international travelers

For long-term travel, you may want the ability to get online without going to a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Even for some short-term trips, you may feel more comfortable if you can get an internet connection at any time.

Getting a SIM card is one popular solution. SIM cards give you mobile internet access without international data roaming charges.

A SIM card looks like the microSD card in your smartphone that you switch into a new phone when you upgrade. The SIM card is the tool that connects you to a mobile network. By changing out a SIM card, you can use an affordable mobile internet network at your international destination.

You can choose an international SIM card or a local SIM card based on which is the best internet option for the country where you are headed. Some countries make it almost impossible for nonresidents to get local SIM cards. But most countries have tourist SIM cards that are prepaid and very easy to use.

SIM card basics: unlock your smartphone, and know your card size

1) If you are planning to use a SIM card in your cell phone, you will need to make sure your phone is unlocked. Your carrier can unlock your phone in many cases. Or, you can unlock your smartphone yourself on some websites that specialize in unlocking smartphones.

2) SIM cards come in Standard, Micro, and Nano sizes. Some cards known as 3-in-1 are designed to work for all three sizes. Make sure you know which size your device will require if the SIM card you need is not available as a 3-in-1.

SIM cards provide data without roaming charges

International SIM cards

First, you may want to check the prices for international SIM cards for your destination. International SIM cards will be more expensive than a local SIM card. But any kind of SIM card is still far less expensive than international roaming charges.

Some international SIM cards supply data only and don’t support phone calls or text messaging. A second variety of international SIM card will support data and texting. Other cards will provide all three: data, SMS, and cell phone service. But cards that support voice calls and texting tend to have more limited geographical ranges. A card that supports voice and text may work in fewer countries than a data-only international SIM card.

If you will be traveling to several countries on your journey, the international SIM card will work across those borders. For multi-country travel, you may want to check your email or send photos as you are traveling across Europe or Asia. International cards will offer unmatched convenience for you if you are planning a complex trip.

Every time you cross a border, an international SIM card will create a local number for your phone that is based in the country you have just entered. That new local number means that your data usage is no longer charged at international roaming rates. That technology makes the international SIM card a great choice for many global travelers.

International SIM cards are available online, which makes it easy for you to compare your options for travel internet access. eSIM cards can even be emailed to you, as they work through software installation rather than a physical card.

Local SIM cards

You can buy a prepaid local SIM card in advance of your trip from online retailers. Or, you can buy a local SIM card when you arrive in your destination country. Local SIM cards will often provide you with the cheapest way to enjoy full internet access while traveling.

Most countries will offer local SIM cards in their major cities at airports, newsstands, and convenience stores. Frequent travelers often recommend buying at local stores rather than airports, as airport prices tend to be higher.

The advantage of buying at an airport, however, is that you will be more likely to avoid a flawed or fake local SIM card. An official internet service provider kiosk in an airport is a trustworthy place to buy a local SIM card in a foreign country.

Getting Online When You’re On Vacation

It’s time to pull on those hiking boots or slide on the flip flops and have a few days of fun in your home country.

In most tourist-friendly regions, you will be able to get internet access at your vacation site. A hotel or a beach rental property will often provide free Wi-Fi to its guests. But remote areas such as mountain camping sites will often lack internet access. Remote areas are beyond the strong range of signals from cellular towers. You may get a weak signal, but it won’t be enough to get online.

a man sits on the edge of a cliff checking his cell phone over a lake vista

So how long will you be on vacation? If it’s just a few days, maybe you’re looking forward to going off grid. But maybe you’re the kind of traveler who wants all your comforts at once, including internet access.

Maybe you know you’re going to stay in a place where there’s only one bar of cellular signal. You still want internet access, for safety and entertainment. You and your family or friends want a solution to be able to use your smartphones, laptops or tablets.

Solving the one-bar signal problem in remote vacation areas

In that case, you might consider using a mobile hotspot device with a booster. The booster will boost the weak wireless signal so it becomes a usable two bars or more. The mobile hotspot device also allows you to connect multiple devices at once. Several people could then use their tablets, phones, or laptops at the same time.

If you don’t want to commit to the upfront cost of a mobile hotspot device before you know how it works, you can rent one. For a short trip, renting a portable hotspot is a great way to find out whether it serves your needs. Most offer standard 4G speeds (depending on your signal, of course), but many will also set a data cap of 1 GB (gigabyte) per day.

Internet Access For RV Owners, Boat Owners and Digital Nomads

RV owners, VanLifers, and boat owners have a unique challenge. The special capabilities of their vehicles can take them far away from cellular towers. They also may spend long periods of time out of reach of public Wi-Fi hotspots like coffee shops and restaurants.

The best internet options for RV owners, VanLifers and boat owners will vary widely. For people who take shorter trips in their RVs, some internet options for travelers such as mobile hotspots might be perfect. But other RV owners venture farther out to remote areas for a full season. Some live year-round in their vehicles and boats, And more and more are doing full time remote work using the internet while they’re on the road. For all these people, the most popular solutions are often portable cellular modems or satellite service.

Cellular modems and satellite service have their pros and cons, depending on the individual lifestyle. Boat owners, for example, may be far from shore for hours at a time, completely beyond any signal. Satellite may be the only reliable connection for internet access for their boats.

table with advantages and disadvantages of satellite internet vs. cellular internet

See our guide for more specifics on the best internet options for an RV or VanLife.

Staying Connected On Road Trips

Many cars now have built-in Wi-Fi hotspots, which is great if you like to stay on the road. If you drive all over your state for business, for example, it’s fantastic if your company car has a portable hotspot. You may need to pull over to use it safely, but you know you have a reliable connection.

Built-in Wi-Fi hotspots can be a boon for parents. Young people need entertainment when they’re stuck in a car for hours. Many built-in automobile hotspots can handle 4 to 10 devices at once. Kids and teens with different tastes can stream different videos using their headphones. And if one parent has to work while another drives, the mobile hotspot can help the remote worker as well.

Vehicle cellular signal boosters may also help road warriors keep a consistent signal. For those who are using their smartphones rather than a hotspot, a vehicle signal booster might be a good choice.

family laughs in car while dad uses cell phone on built-in wireless

FAQs: Internet for Travelers

Will my digital devices work when i am away from my home country.

The most important issue is whether you will be able to recharge your portable devices. There are 15 different types of plug used around the world. Make sure you do your research on the places you’re traveling. You need to know what kinds of recharging adapters might be necessary. In some cases, an international wall charger may be your easiest solution.

What does it mean if my cell phone is locked?

When you first buy your smartphone, many service providers will lock your phone so it will only work on that one provider’s service. If your smartphone is locked, you will need to get it unlocked to put in a SIM card for international internet access.

If your smartphone is paid off or you pay an early termination fee, your carrier is legally required to unlock your phone for free. Some websites will help you unlock your phone by entering a code.

Unlocking your own phone has been legal since the Unblocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act of 2015 . Still, be careful. Some phone-unlocking services are fraudulent, so do your homework before sending any payment.

woman uses cell phone in front of Greek ruins

Can I still place voice calls with my cell phone when I am in a different country, even if I don’t have a plan for international data or internet access?

In most countries, you will face high charges for international phone calls. You’ll pay those rates just for placing a voice call without any use of data. Check this table of international calling rates from the FCC . Note that some carriers offer worldwide “value calling" plans that offer considerable savings by the minute for a flat monthly fee.

In some plans with major carriers, you may still be able to “call home" at reasonable rates when you are overseas. For example, say one smartphone with an American area code is calling another with an American area code. In that case, some providers may not assign any international charges even when one phone is in a different country. When you take some smartphones from the USA abroad, American callers don’t even have to dial international area codes to reach your phone.

As you can see, international plans vary widely. It is important to take into consideration how internet access affects cell phone choices for international travelers. Make sure you understand how you are going to use your smartphone while traveling and what rates your current provider might charge you.

Will calls work on my smartphone when I’m using the data-only international SIM card?

Data-only SIM cards will not support voice calls. To make your smartphone work for calls, you would have to take out your international SIM card and insert your old SIM card. In that case, you would still be charged international calling rates.

Those high charges are why many international travelers download services like WhatsApp . Keeping in touch while traveling can often be more budget-friendly when you use data instead of voice calls.

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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How to Get High-Speed Internet While Traveling

In the immortal words of Hans Christian Andersen, "To travel is to live." But in today's world, to travel without high-speed internet is, well, practically medieval. Whether you're live-streaming the neon dazzle of Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing or Zooming into a work meeting from a beach in Bali, high-speed internet has become as essential as your passport. But how do you ensure that your online life doesn't hit a snag when you're hopping from one country to another?

Understanding your high-speed internet needs while traveling, the role of bandwidth in your internet speed, travel sim cards: a traveler's best friend for connectivity, choosing the right travel sim card, how to purchase and activate your travel sim card, portable wi-fi hotspots: your gateway to high-speed internet, best portable wi-fi hotspots on the market, local sim cards vs. international roaming: what’s best for high-speed internet, tips for purchasing a local sim card abroad, leveraging free wi-fi: tips and tricks for secure, high-speed access, using vpns to secure your internet connection on public wi-fi, advanced tips for consistent high-speed internet while traveling, the future of travel internet: emerging technologies, practical case studies, how can i ensure high-speed internet in a country with poor connectivity, are travel sim cards cost-effective for long-term travel, can i use my regular sim card to get high-speed internet abroad, what are the risks of using public wi-fi for high-speed internet, how does the speed of portable wi-fi hotspots compare to local sim cards.

Fear not, digital wanderers and workation warriors! I'm Bryan Holiday, your cyber-savvy Odysseus in the tumultuous sea of travel connectivity. With over a decade of trotting the globe and staying plugged in, I've mastered the art of maintaining a robust internet connection, no matter where my travels take me. So, buckle up as we embark on a journey to unravel the secrets of high-speed internet for travelers.

Before you start dreaming of seamless uploads of your Sistine Chapel selfies or crystal-clear calls home, let's get down to brass tacks. Understanding your internet needs is crucial. Are you a casual browser, an Instagram influencer in the making, or a remote-working road warrior? Your online activities dictate the speed you need. Streaming "Game of Thrones" in HD is going to gobble up data faster than a Lannister pays his debts, while sending emails is as light on your data as feathers on a Maester's quill.

Bandwidth is the Jon Snow of internet terms – it's much more important than it first appears. Simply put, bandwidth is the volume of information per unit of time that a transmission medium (like an internet connection) can handle. More bandwidth means more data can flow through, akin to how a wider Westerosi road allows more troops to march side by side. When you're traveling, you want a connection that's as wide and as open as the King's Road, ensuring your internet speed is as swift as a raven from the Citadel.

Stay tuned, as in the next sections, we'll dive into the nitty-gritty of travel SIM cards, portable Wi-Fi hotspots, and the eternal debate of local vs. international roaming. We'll also cover how to keep your data safe faster than you can say "Valar Morghulis" when connecting to public Wi-Fi. So, grab your digital swords (smartphones, folks), and let's get you connected with the speed of Hermes himself.

Imagine you're Indiana Jones, navigating through the dense jungles of foreign telecom regulations, looking for that golden idol of uninterrupted connectivity. That's where the trusty travel SIM card swings in, saving the day like a well-placed vine over a pit of snakes.

Travel SIM cards are the unsung heroes for globetrotters seeking high-speed internet. These nifty little chips are your all-access pass to local networks, usually offering better rates and faster services than your home network could ever hope to provide abroad. They work by slotting into your phone like any other SIM card, but instead of chaining you to one network, they have agreements with multiple carriers across the globe.

Not all SIM cards are created equal, and like Dumbledore's selection of socks, the choices can be overwhelming. When choosing a travel SIM card, consider the following:

Coverage: Does it cover the Shire, Mordor, and all the lands in between? Jokes aside, check the countries and regions it operates in.
Data Plans: Are you looking for unlimited data, or are you more of a 'pay-as-you-go' Gandalf? Make sure the plan fits your usage.
Costs: Compare the costs like a Lannister preparing for a wedding – with meticulous attention to detail.
Compatibility: Ensure the SIM works with your device. It's like making sure the wand chooses the wizard in the world of Harry Potter.

Purchasing a travel SIM card is easier than convincing a Hobbit to go on an adventure. You can buy them online before you leave, at the airport, or in local shops upon arrival. Activation is usually as simple as inserting the SIM into your phone and following the carrier's activation steps – no need for a convoluted spell or ancient incantation.

For those who find swapping SIM cards as tedious as listening to the Entmoot, portable Wi-Fi hotspots might be your goblet of fire. These devices are like carrying your personal little piece of the internet in your pocket. They work by tapping into cellular networks and creating a private Wi-Fi network just for you – think of it as your personal bubble of internet connectivity.

When choosing a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, you want to look for:

Battery Life: It should last longer than the final season of "Lost" felt.
Connectivity: It must provide a strong, stable connection, or it's as useful as a chocolate teapot.
Size: It should be as unobtrusive as a ninja in the night.
Price: Ensure the cost doesn't leave your wallet feeling like it faced Thanos.

Some of the top contenders in the market include the Skyroam Solis, the Netgear Nighthawk LTE, and the Huawei E5577Cs. Each has its own set of superpowers, from long battery life to impressive speed capabilities.

When you're crossing borders faster than a Jason Bourne car chase, you need to make a pivotal decision: opt for a local SIM card at each stop or go with the convenience of international roaming? It's the traveler's version of the Matrix's red pill or blue pill dilemma.

Local SIM cards are like getting a new identity in each country you visit. They offer the most cost-effective way to enjoy high-speed internet since you're paying local rates for data – no shocking bills that make you feel like you've just funded a villain's lair. However, the downside is that every time you hop to a new country, you'll need to source a new SIM card, which can feel like you're collecting Infinity Stones.

International roaming , on the other hand, is the superhero of convenience. It's your shield in the battle against the hassle of changing SIM cards. With international roaming, your phone automatically connects to local networks as you travel. But beware, the costs can be as treacherous as a deal with Loki, often resulting in exorbitant fees that can quickly add up.

If you decide to go down the local SIM card route, here are some tips to make the process as smooth as a James Bond pickup line:

Research Before You Go: Like a good spy, gather intel on the best local SIM options before you land.
Unlock Your Phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked – it's the key to making new SIM cards work.
Know Your Size: SIM cards come in different sizes. Know whether you need a nano, micro, or standard SIM.
Check the Data: Always confirm the amount of data and the validity period. You don't want your internet disappearing faster than a Snapchat message.
Top-Up Locations: Find out where you can recharge your SIM card. You don't want to be caught out of data like a ship out of wind.

Free Wi-Fi can be as tempting as the One Ring – powerful and convenient, but with risks. It's available in hotels, cafes, and even public spaces, but unlike Frodo's burden, you don't need to go it alone. Here's how to use free Wi-Fi safely:

Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is like an invisibility cloak for your online activities, keeping your data safe from prying eyes.
Avoid Sensitive Transactions: Never access your bank accounts or any sensitive information while connected to public Wi-Fi. It's like giving Sauron your location.
Keep Your Firewall On: This is your digital fortress against potential threats.
Forget the Network After Use: Don't let your device get too attached to a network. Always 'forget' the network after use to avoid automatically connecting in the future.

A VPN is your secret weapon, encrypting your data and rerouting it through a server elsewhere in the world. It's like sending your internet traffic on a secret mission, bypassing the surveillance of nefarious networks. When choosing a VPN:

Select a Reputable Service: Opt for a VPN with a no-logs policy and strong encryption – think of it as choosing a member for your heist crew.
Ease of Use: The VPN should be as easy to use as a clap-on, clap-off light.
Speed: Ensure your VPN doesn't slow down your connection to a crawl.

We'll explore advanced tips for consistent high-speed internet while traveling, because let's face it, nobody wants their video call to freeze on an unflattering frame. Stay tuned, as we'll also look into the future of travel internet, where the possibilities are as boundless as the final frontier.

Now, let's talk about keeping your internet faster than a Millennium Falcon on the Kessel Run, even when you're off the beaten path. Here are some advanced tips for those who need to stay connected with the speed and reliability of a Starship Enterprise at warp speed.

Satellite Internet for Remote Locations: If your travels take you to remote corners of the Earth, where the internet is as scarce as a quiet moment in a Tarantino flick, satellite internet might be your holy grail. Companies like Iridium and Globalstar offer devices that connect to satellites instead of terrestrial cell towers, ensuring you can send that important email whether you're on the peak of Everest or the plains of the Serengeti.

Data Compression Tools and Techniques: Data compression is like a magic spell for your internet data. It shrinks the size of the data being transmitted, allowing for quicker upload and download speeds. Use mobile browsers like Opera Mini or Google Chrome, which have data compression features built-in, making your browsing as efficient as Hermione with a time-turner.

Network Extenders and Signal Boosters: These devices can be as crucial as a Swiss Army knife for MacGyver. They amplify a weak signal, giving you a fighting chance at a stable connection in areas where the signal is as elusive as a ninja in the night. It's perfect for those staying in remote villas or rustic cabins where the nearest cell tower is just a distant cousin.

As we look to the horizon, the future of travel internet is as bright as the glow of a lightsaber in a dark room. Emerging technologies promise to make connectivity issues a thing of the past, like floppy disks and dial-up tones.

Developments in Satellite Internet (Starlink for Travelers): Elon Musk's Starlink is set to revolutionize the way we connect. Imagine high-speed internet beamed down from space, covering every corner of the globe. This isn't science fiction; it's the near future, and it's as exciting as the prospect of a new "Star Wars" trilogy.

The Rise of eSIM Technology: eSIM technology is like having a shape-shifting mutant power for your phone. It allows you to switch carriers without swapping SIM cards, all with a few taps on your device. It's still in its early days, but it's poised to make the life of a traveler as easy as a Sunday morning.

To bring it all home, let's look at some practical case studies of travelers who've managed to stay connected against all odds, like a tech-savvy Robinson Crusoe.

Real-life Scenarios of Travelers Maintaining High-Speed Internet Access: From travel bloggers in the jungles of Amazon to photographers in the Arctic Circle, these stories will show you that with the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can stay connected anywhere.

Interviews with Frequent Travelers and Digital Nomads: Hear straight from the horse's mouth how seasoned travelers navigate the challenges of staying online while on the move. These are the Gandalfs and Dumbledores of travel tech, and their wisdom is pure gold.

As we wrap up this digital odyssey, remember that staying connected while traveling doesn't have to be as daunting as a "Mission Impossible" stunt. With the right preparation and a little tech savvy, you can have high-speed internet at your fingertips, ready to tackle whatever your journey throws at you.

So, whether you're a casual traveler looking to share your experiences, a digital nomad earning your living on the go, or just someone who likes to stay in the loop, the world is your oyster, and high-speed internet is the pearl. Go forth and explore, safe in the knowledge that the digital world is just a click away.

Thanks for visiting our blog, are you planing to travel to Europe ? Check out our eSIM Europe .

Before you take off make sure to check with local government of the travel status.

Before you set off on your next grand adventure, armed with all the internet know-how of a Silicon Valley wizard, let's tackle some of those frequently asked questions that might still be buzzing around your head like a drone over a scenic vista.

Even in countries where the internet crawls slower than a snail on tranquilizers, there are ways to boost your chances of a decent connection. Look for accommodations that boast high-speed internet as an amenity – it's often a sign they've invested in infrastructure like signal boosters. Also, cafes and libraries are often little oases of connectivity; just make sure to secure your data with a VPN.

For the nomadic among us, a travel SIM card can be as vital as a good pair of walking shoes. If you're traveling long-term, they're generally more cost-effective than international roaming – think of it as investing in a quality backpack rather than renting one at every stop. Plus, many offer plans tailored for extended adventures.

You can, but it's like using a map from the '90s – not the best tool for the job. International roaming charges can be exorbitant, and you may find your 'high-speed' internet is throttled to a pace that would lose to a tortoise. Always check with your provider for their roaming policies and consider a local or travel SIM as a more efficient alternative.

Public Wi-Fi networks are like a box of chocolates from a stranger; you never know what you're gonna get. They can be insecure, allowing cyber ne'er-do-wells to intercept your data. Always use a VPN to encrypt your connection, and avoid accessing sensitive information like bank accounts when on public networks.

Portable Wi-Fi hotspots can deliver speeds that rival local SIM cards, provided you're in an area with good coverage. However, the speed can also depend on the number of devices connected and the network traffic. It's like a highway; the more cars (or data), the more potential for traffic jams.

And there you have it, fellow travelers – your compass and map to navigating the world of high-speed internet on the go. If you've found this guide as useful as a Swiss Army knife on a camping trip, remember to share it with your fellow wanderers.

Need more help plotting your course through the digital landscape? Reach out, and let's chart your path to seamless connectivity, no matter where your travels take you. Until then, safe travels and happy streaming!

All comments are moderated before being published

Why we need activation dates?

We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use them when you’re ready to travel.
If you don’t give us an activation date, your SIM card will not work when you plug them into your phone.

Not sure on your dates yet?

You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time.

What if you need to change the dates?

You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your SIM number so we can change it for you.

Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide

How to Get Internet While Traveling On the Road

North America / Outdoors / Travel Gear

During our 3 months living on the road in an Airstream, the hardest part was not having good or consistent Internet. The first half of our trip, we constantly struggled to find a decent connection which was vital for us since it’s a huge part of our job! As the trip went along, we tried different solutions and talked to a lot of other RVers. We eventually found a solution that worked for us, and here’s what we found!

How to Get Internet While Traveling // localadventurer.com

Published: Aug 11, 2016

HOW TO GET INTERNET WHILE TRAVELING ON THE ROAD

Before we go into the options, there are a few things to keep in mind. If you’re like me, you’re probably looking for the most reliable access that is fast and inexpensive. Unfortunately, that isn’t really a reality on the road, but that doesn’t mean you have to be without access. You will also most likely need put together a few different options and make them work together best for you.

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF:

What will you be using the internet for (Business, Personal, Email, Checking in)?
How much data will you need? Do you want to stream video (i.e. Netflix or Amazon)?
How many devices will be online?
Where will you be mostly staying (RV Parks, Boondocking, National Parks, Cities etc)?
What is your budget?

THE MAIN OPTIONS:

Public + “free” wifi.

We tried using public wifi for the first month and half on the road, and it was miserable. Between RV Parks, Walmarts, coffee shops, and fast food restaurants, we had the hardest time finding a decent connection.

RV Parks often advertise free wifi. Although there were a couple exceptions to the rule, this usually meant wifi under 3 Mbps (in case that doesn’t mean anything to you, that is SLOOOOOOWWWW. To give you an example, it took me 18 hours to upload a 3-minute video). On top of that, it usually wasn’t reliable and would shut off periodically. Most of the time, I had to use gmail in basic HTML format.
Walmarts that had wifi (usually Super Walmarts) were our favorite spots for the first month. We could stay in the parking lot for free and the wifi was usually 4-6 Mbps and reliable. It gave us enough of a connection to catch up on emails and work with small files. Note: if you do stay overnight, it’s common courtesy to shop at the store. We usually made our grocery runs then.
Starbucks was another option we were hoping would work out. We didn’t get a great connection here either (3-5 Mbps). Plus you had to buy a drink, so it wasn’t really free. Those mocha frappucinos add up!
Fast Food Restaurants were hit or miss. We tried quite a few McDonalds because they were the easiest to find (and because we love their soft serve ;D), but we were only getting 3-5 Mbps too. Panera ending having really fast internet that was equivalent to home cable/DSL, but they were hard to find and the costs of a meal were much higher.
Libraries are supposed to have free wifi too, but we didn’t end up trying this out. If you’ve had experience with it, let us know what you think!
Open Wifi Spots is a great resource to find places with free wifi near you.

Hotspots + Cellular Service

Tethering your phone is an option but that can get costly. If you happen to still have unlimited data or a service that allows you to stream without using your data, we recommend you use that. IMO, hotspots are the way to go!

The Verizon Jetpack with unlimited data changed our lives. We weren’t getting crazy fast speeds like we would with cable or DSL, but for the most part, we were getting at least 15 Mbps. This is still a pricey option, but if your livelihood is dependent on it, it’s the best option. If you want to step it up a level, some folks get Verizon and AT&T to help ensure coverage in more areas.
Vinli is a device for the car that tracks your driving data, but it also gives you the option to buy T-Mobile service as you need it. This is a great option because it’s pay as you go. If you’re on the lower end of how much data you use, this could be the most cost-friendly option for you. The downside is since T-Mobile doesn’t get as much coverage, this only worked well in urban areas. This is when Esther would hop on to work while I drove.

*Side note: The current options on purchasing data is limited, but there are workarounds to leasing unlimited data accounts. Check out eBay or message us for details.

Whether you’re using public wifi or your own hotspots, these are some great accessories to help you boost your signal, the range of the wifi, or just making it easier to have one place to connect to.

WifiRanger is a device mounted to your roof. It helps reach further wifi signals, which we were excited about. However, we rarely found a decent wifi signal, which rendered it useless. You can’t boost non-existent wifi. We did enjoy having it as a central & consistent spot to connect to within the trailer though. Once we had a hotspot, we connected the WifiRanger to it.
Cellular Boosters was something we didn’t get a chance to test since we were only in our Airstream for 3 months, but a lot of full timers use them. The weBoost 4G-X is one of the popular options.

Cable / DSL

This is what we were used to having when we had a home base. This will give you the fastest, most reliable speeds at the most reasonable prices. Unfortunately, since it’s not very travel-friendly or mobile, it’s not an option if you’re on the road. BUT anytime we were in a city where we had friends, they let us use their awesome wifi. Thanks, friends! :D

OTHER OPTIONS

Co-working Spaces are a great option if you’re in a city and you need internet for work. Rent a desk for a few hours, day, or week and get all the fast internet you need.
Satellite Internet seems to still be an option for some and was common before hotspots became normal. From our conversations with people and the research we’ve done, it’s expensive and slow. On top of that, you have to go through the trouble of lining up the dish. Plus, it is affected by weather. There are some new options aimed at RVers, but they still seem more trouble than they are worth.

In conclusion, using a hotspot was the best option for us out of all the options available. It still doesn’t mean that you’ll have fast, reliable internet everywhere you go. We were still at the mercy of needing a cell tower nearby. When we were in remote parts of the country (ie. many parks), we still had to go without internet. This forced us to learn how to work efficiently while we were online and do work that didn’t need an internet connection when we couldn’t get on.

Regardless of what you choose, there will still be many frustrating moments filled with expletives, but on the flip side, you get to be wherever you want whenever you want!

How do you deal with being disconnected? Have you ever considered being a digital nomad and working from the road?

ESTHER + JACOB

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 50 travel blogs in the world. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They move to a new city every year and currently live in Portland, Oregon.

This Post Has 4 Comments

I don’t know if you’re still doing this, but I am looking to become a digital nomad within a wear, I’d love an updated version of this or even what you both did for your jobs! Thank you and warm regards Ben McDonald

We only lived on the road for 3 months and have had more permanent home base year to year (moving to a new city every year). Our blog is a full time gig!

Could you please add dates to this article? This seems like the kind of info that can go out-of-date quickly, and I’m curious what the current state-of-the-art is. I’m looking ahead 6 years, so out-of-date info is actually useful also, so I can get an idea of how fast this is generally changing as well as where things are now.

My scenario is working as a remote software engineer married to an avid computer gamer – I’m trying to talk him into a year or two of living primarily on the road while we explore the continent (North America) together, after “the kids grow up”. His main concern is keeping up with his favorite hobby (he’s a SAHD now, so when the kids grow up, he retires!). It matters now because my current work is not fully remote (but probably could be) – and there are some subtle differences in how I want to direct my career if I want to stay local or want to travel and work.

haha thanks for mentioning that! We only just started adding dates. This was in Aug 11, 2016

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 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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How to get Wi-Fi wherever you go

Most new phone owners quickly learn that Wi-Fi is preferable when it comes to conserving your data , but did you know that you can access the internet via Wi-Fi practically anywhere you go? In fact, we may be approaching a future in which universal Wi-Fi connects all mobile device users from around the world.

In the meantime, how can you get Wi-Fi access on the go? This guide will provide information on the various ways and tools you can use to access the internet, no matter where your travels take you.

Turn your smartphone into a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Most smartphones can be turned into an internet access point that your other devices, such as tablets or other phones, can connect to. These are called Wi-Fi hotspots, and they can be indispensable when you need to access the internet with other devices.

The process to set up a personal hotspot depends on the type of phone you have:

On iOS devices, go to Settings, then toggle “Personal Hotspot” on. Once you do, you’ll be given a Wi-Fi password. Other devices will be able to connect to your phone via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth under the name of the phone, and they’ll need this password to access the hotspot.

On Android devices, the process can differ a little depending on your phone’s model. Go to Settings, then look for a menu for networks or connections. On Samsung devices, for example, you’ll need to navigate to “Connections,” then “Mobile Hotspot and Tethering.” On Google Pixels, you must go to “Network & Internet,” then “Hotspot & Tethering.” After turning the hotspot on, you’ll be given a Wi-Fi password. Other devices will be able to connect to the hotspot by selecting your device name and entering this password.

To keep unauthorized individuals from accessing your hotspot, you’ll need to follow a couple of security best practices:

Be sure to change your hotspot’s SSID and password! The above instructions allow you to start a hotspot with your phone’s default settings, but these are not ideal for security. Hackers can use tools to automatically detect and attempt to enter networks with common SSIDs. You can customize your hotspot’s name and password to help prevent this.

Take a moment to enable WPA2 encryption in your settings, if it is not enabled by default. This will “scramble” any data sent or received from devices on the network, protecting that information from potential fraudsters.

Keep in mind that your ability to set up and use a Wi-Fi hotspot effectively will depend on your service plan — particularly in regard to data allowance. Some carriers may require an additional fee each month for the ability to create mobile hotspots. Further, if you only have a few gigabytes of data each month, you’ll find that creating a Wi-Fi hotspot for multiple devices to use may drain your data allotment fairly quickly. On the other hand, if you have an unlimited plan , you’ll be able to stream and download videos, music, and games much more freely with a variety of devices.

A final limitation of Wi-Fi hotspots to consider is that they can increase your phone’s battery consumption. For this reason, it’s smart to have a battery or charger handy for prolonged hotspot use. If there is an area where you’ll be regularly using this function, consider plugging in a wireless charger at that location as a matter of convenience.

Buy a portable router.

Whether your phone is not hotspot-enabled or your data plan is not sufficient for your needs, an alternative is to purchase a portable router . These generally allow up to 10 devices to access the internet. Like your smartphone, these require inserting a SIM card for connectivity. While using a portable router will incur an upfront fee and an additional charge for internet access, there are plenty of service providers from which you can rent them — and often at a reasonable rate.

These routers are typically powered by USB, and most models come with an extension cable to plug them in. Just remember that binging on Netflix during your travels can be a serious drain on your battery, so don’t forget to bring a travel adapter ! As a plus, many models allow you to plug devices into the router, which can be an effective way of charging your mobile devices on the go.

There are many benefits to using a portable Wi-Fi router. They are substantially more secure than public Wi-Fi. Further, they are highly convenient while traveling. Unless you have a connected car with built-in internet access , a portable router may be necessary. While they may incur some additional costs, they are a great way of getting reliable internet access without savaging your cellular data plan.

Satellite internet.

One option for getting Wi-Fi anywhere is satellite internet. Much like satellite cable on your TV, this involves sending a signal through a modem to a satellite dish, then to an orbiting satellite. The signal is then bounced back to your dish, your modem, and your connected device.

Satellite internet routers are generally not as reliable or fast as a standard Wi-Fi router or broadband, but they can give you internet access in areas without Wi-Fi coverage. Given how satellite internet works, there may be interference with your connection from time to time, and this can result in unexpected latency or outages. Nevertheless, they are an effective way of getting online while traveling without putting a dent into your cellular data.

Visit locations that offer free Wi-Fi.

A variety of community locations and businesses in your area may offer free Wi-Fi. Many businesses (such as hotels and airlines) that offer coupons, special promotions, and loyalty programs may provide free Wi-Fi to consumers under specific circumstances.

These give visitors an added convenience and enable more consumers to take advantage of in-store internet features. Libraries, bookstores, public plazas, McDonald’s and Starbucks franchises — the chances are pretty high that you’ll encounter some free sources of internet access in your day-to-day routine.

This can be a boon to individuals with limited data plans. Understand, however, that your access to public networks may come with some restrictions. Certain websites may be blocked, and the connection speed may not be sufficient for intensive streaming or downloading.

There are also some security concerns with using public Wi-Fi. Unscrupulous individuals can intercept data being transmitted to and from devices connected to public networks, potentially allowing them to glean enough information to commit fraud. Unless you’re using a virtual private network, it’s not advisable to access sensitive information while on a public network.

If you have concerns about mobile pay transmitting your credit card information over a public network, have no fear; most mobile pay platforms use NFC technology, so your information is not being transmitted over any public networks.

Use a hotspot database.

Many apps can help you find hotspots for free Wi-Fi in your area. Some apps have extra features that can help you find them. The Facebook app, for example, has an option for finding nearby Wi-Fi hotspots. Some websites and apps are designed with the sole purpose of providing a database of free Wi-Fi hotspots. A couple of examples are NetSpot and WiFi Map .

Again, be sure to use cybersecurity best practices when accessing free Wi-Fi networks. Be cautious about transmitting personal or financial information while on any network you find on one of these apps.

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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?

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Mobile internet

Internet to travel the world – Guide 2024!

Find the best alternative while traveling around the world, without complications I Updated guide for your next destination

Carolina S.

January 1, 2024

In this article

Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees

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“Discover the best option to get an internet connection and travel around the world” Have you wondered how to have the internet to travel , and what the best alternative is? If your answer is yes, this guide will help you identify the alternatives in today’s marketplace and how to use them to your advantage. This way, you’ll get the most out of your trips and avoid expensive fees for activating roaming services.

International eSIM

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Secure and reliable internet to travel

Certainly, cellular internet access has become an essential requirement for many travelers. For example, if you’re a digital nomad , you’ll need to secure your cellular internet connection to work remotely while on the go. You can also be on a business trip, and for this, you’ll need the internet to send and answer messages from another country ; Or simply, you’re enjoying your vacation and you want to share the best experiences on social media.

As you can see, there are different reasons why you’ll need an internet connection on your next trip . So, to choose the best option keep these recommendations in mind:

Alternatives to having internet anywhere in the world

The list of options to stay connected during your trip vary greatly. So, you can choose an international eSIM card , the classic SIM card , a portable WiFi device, and even access public WiFi services at airports and places of interest. Here is a brief description of the main features and benefits:

Alternative 1: Internet to travel with eSIM

Features of the eSIM card for traveling

Before we tell you about the benefits that eSIM offers for your trips, you should know that it’s the latest evolution of the micro and nano SIM that you currently use on your cellphone. It’s a standard microchip that is already embedded into some smartphones and is compatible with telephone and internet operators worldwide.

With this technology, you’ll no longer have to insert a new SIM in your smartphone to connect to the internet on your trips. There’s no doubt that this represents one of its greatest benefits. You can buy your eSIM at any time, through the Holafly virtual store , receive it in your email through a QR code and activate it to start browsing instantly.

How does the Holafly eSIM card work?

The Holafly eSIM works just like the SIM you have inserted in your cellphone. It contains your personal information, and usual telephone number and also allows you to connect your cellular device to the telephone network of the companies that provide these services in more than 160 destinations.

Thus, you can easily manage the cellular data services that you purchased with Holafly to enjoy an internet connection anywhere in the world . You won’t have to get involved in the processes that operators in each country usually follow to sign up to a prepaid plan, according to the terms and conditions established for the provision of these services.

Advantages of the Holafly eSIM card

The eSIM is user-friendly
Allows you to switch the operator and data plan with one click
In most destinations, you will have unlimited data on all available plans.
Some eSIMs in Europe include phone numbers and minutes for international calls.
You can extend any of the plans by purchasing top-ups .
You keep your WhatsApp number to receive calls and messages by VoIP
You can recover your information in case you lose or damage your cellphone
Buy online and activate your internet plan in minutes!
You stop using plastic SIM cards
Customer service 24/7, 365 days a year
You don’t need international roaming services

How to activate Holafly eSIM?

The eSIM activation process is very simple, but first, you will have to verify the compatibility of your cellular device with this technology . To clear up doubts, we share the list of eSIM-compatible phones currently. Once you’ve completed this verification and everything is in order, you can buy your eSIM card . Make sure to choose the destination you plan to visit and the plan data according to your travel itinerary.

Three things you should know about the Holafly eSIM card

The Holafly eSIM only includes data unless it is indicated that a phone number is included for the destination.
Keep in mind the recommendations for compatibility of your cellphone with eSIM technology to ensure that you can enjoy this service at any destination, whenever you need it.
Remember to activate your data plan once you land at your destination, with the QR code that contains the eSIM for your destination . You’ll receive this information by email with the instructions for activation (don’t forget to print it to avoid setbacks).

Alternative 2: Internet to travel with a SIM card

Buying a prepaid SIM card when you arrive at your destination is another alternative to having internet on your trip. With this little plastic chip, you can get packages for text messages and local calls. In addition, you can get cellular internet plans, according to the offer available by each local telephone operator, in terms of coverage options and prices.

Benefits of buying a traditional SIM card

You can get SIM cards at airports and authorized stores
You can sign up to a voice and text messaging plan for local use
You can get a prepaid data plan with a new phone number

What you should know about SIM card

A language barrier common when it comes to communicating to ask the services from a local operator at your destination. Moreover, not all rates are available for foreigners, so you must check the currency conversion to pay for your plan with the SIM card , according to the prices established with the local currency. And finally, if you plan to visit several destinations, you’ll have to carry out this same process in each country.

According to the most recent Skyscanner travel trends report for 2024 , “Affordable travel will be the top priority for travelers” and in this sense, finding options to get a cellular internet service at a reasonable price and without so many hassles will be an important aspect to consider.

Alternative 3: Internet to travel with portable WiFi

These devices known as potable WiFi, portable router, or portable modem , have become the solution for many travelers who need to connect various devices to the internet and work remotely. Like SIM cards , their technological development has given rise to increasingly sophisticated solutions that offer stability in the internet connection and ease of use.

Benefits of portable WiFi

Connects to cellular networks
You can browse from different devices
It has a rechargeable battery
Comes with a cable to connect to the computer

What you should know about portable WiFi to travel

You’ll need a cellular data SIM
You’ll use the data of the plan you purchased for your trip
You must make a good investment to have a good quality router
You can rent them with your trusted operator, but in case of loss, you’ll have to pay an additional penalty

Alternative 4: Connecting to open WiFi networks

There’s no doubt that the use of public WiFi networks is one of the most affordable alternatives for travelers. However, it’s one of the alternatives that can cause you some problems. Because you put the data stored on the connected cellular devices at risk; and in turn, you expose yourself to personal information theft, such as passwords, account numbers and other sensitive information.

This is what you need to know to connect to open WiFi networks

Don’t use WiFi networks in which you are asked to provide data or passwords
Turn off automatic synchronizations for apps such as your email, calendar, etc.
Visit secure web pages and don’t log into any page or app
Don’t carry out banking operations, or any other activity that puts your information at risk
Make sure to check that the network access data is not saved on your devices
Use these networks only if necessary

Alternative 5: Internet to travel with roaming services

If you go through the settings or configuration icon of your cellphone and choose the option Networks and Internet and finally Mobile/Cellular network, you’ll find the option to connect to the internet through roaming services . In other words, this is a service that will allow you to enjoy an internet connection with your trusted operator in areas where your data plan doesn’t have coverage, such as when you travel to international destinations.

Roaming benefits to having internet on your trips

You use the same number from your home country
You have all the cellphone services of your current plan
Includes voice calls, text messages, and browsing data
You have good internet speed and coverage
In member countries of the European Union you have free roaming

What you should know about international roaming

The cost of each call is very high
They will also charge you for incoming calls
You may receive surprise invoices for data use and text messaging

What is the best alternative to travel with the internet?

In short, the best option to have the internet on your next trip is with the Holafly eSIM card . You can buy it at any time, even before you travel, and activate it the moment you arrive at your destination.

You travel with internet without roaming charges
You keep your WhatsApp number to receive calls by VoIP
You buy and configure your eSIM in a few minutes
You get unlimited data plans at some destinations
You always stay connected
You have different options and payment methods available
You choose the days and data you need in your eSIM

Holafly plans and rates to have the internet to travel

Holafly prices vary depending on the destination and the duration of your trip. For example, if you travel to the United States, you can choose a data eSIM for 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, and 90 days from $19.00 USD to $99.00 . You can even choose the same days at some destinations and enjoy unlimited data and minutes for international calls, such as Italy, France, and Spain, among others.

Secondly, you have guaranteed secure payment options and the most popular payment methods worldwide, such as Visa and Mastercard credit cards, or debit cards through platforms such as PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Third, if you have any questions when choosing the data plan for your eSIM , you have customer service channels via chat or email 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!

As we have already mentioned before, the activation of the eSIM is very simple. After your purchase, we will send a QR code to your registered email. This way you can connect in record time.

FAQs about the internet to travel

The 4G / LTE cellular network is one of the most widely covered options currently, although some operators are already migrating to the fifth generation of cellular networks (5G).

It’s normal for travelers to ask themselves these types of questions, especially when they spend a lot of time browsing the internet. The amount of data consumed depends on if you’re watching videos, listening to music or on social media.

It all depends on the destination you’re going to visit and the cellular technology available. Currently, hundreds of operators worldwide offer high-speed coverage with the 4G cellular network, which is directly related to the faster browsing speed you can enjoy on your cellular device. Holafly eSIM card users get 4G/LTE and 5G coverage in most destinations. It should be noted that in the desert or very remote areas, the connection may be unstable.

To activate and set up the eSIM on your smartphone , you must have a cellular device compatible with this technology. Check the list of eSIM-compatible phones as of December 2022 from brands such as Apple, Google, Huawei, Samsung, Motorola, Sony, Oppo, Honor, and Xiaomi , among others, which will be updated soon.

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Best Portable Internet Providers of 2024
Tyler Cooper

Since the birth of the internet, we’ve seen all kinds of internet users. Business folks require constant access to secure and fast internet as they travel to even the most remote locations. Road warriors bike around cities and settle down in chic and inspirational neighborhoods to blog or run an online business. Now, in 2024, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced adults and children to stay home and use the internet for work or school. No matter what type of internet user you are, there’s no doubt that the demand for portable internet is on the rise. Our guide will help you understand what to look for when portable internet is a must-have, wherever you are. Let’s dive into learning about the best portable internet in 2024!

What to Expect With Portable Internet

To put it simply, portable internet is receiving a stable internet connection through a dedicated mobile hotspot device. Similar to a wireless router, a mobile hotspot allows you to connect multiple devices. Generally, people need mobile hotspots if they travel frequently or stay away from home for long periods of time. Mobile hotspots can be used as a home internet connection if you don’t use large amounts of data or don’t require download speeds of over 50 Mbps. Also, people who live in areas with poor broadband service may find portable internet a more viable alternative.

Speeds and Data Usage

Although having a high speed internet connection wherever you go is ideal, there are some limitations to portable internet. Most mobile hotspot devices are still 4G, which means that download speeds are limited to around 50 Mbps. Also, many mobile hotspot plans have a soft data cap (a limit on your data usage before your download speeds are reduced to very slow speeds) or a hard data cap (a limit on your data usage that you will be charged for whenever you exceed that limit). These data caps limit most users to connecting two to five devices depending on the bandwidth requirements of each device.

Below, we note down popular online activities and services that require an internet connection as well as the download speed requirements and typical data usage for each. It’s best to understand just how much internet speed you need for the services you use on a daily basis.

If you’re streaming or gaming, you can connect one or (maybe) two devices to your mobile hotspot without compromising your online experience. If you’re a blogger or frequent business traveler that typically uses the internet for browsing the web or sending emails, you can connect up to five or more devices because these online activities won’t require high data needs. For vacationers, a mobile hotspot should still be adequate for two to five devices depending on your bandwidth usage, but don’t expect a single mobile hotspot to be the solution for a larger group of users who need high data usage.

What About 5G?

5G is the next generation for cellular data that’s still being implemented in the U.S. While the theoretical high speeds of 5G reaching 10 Gbps is an attractive goal, there are still some issues such as limited accessibility. Since 5G compatible smart devices are often more expensive than its 4G LTE counterparts, we recommend the latter until the former expands its service. If you really need a 5G mobile hotspot, consider Verizon Wireless or AT&T Wireless, as they have the largest networks and coverage for 5G compatible smart devices.

Portable Internet vs. Smartphones

Many people who own a smartphone have a mobile hotspot functionality, which begs the question, why would anyone want a dedicated mobile hotspot device in the first place? We make our case through the pros and cons listed below.

Easily manage battery life for both your smartphone and mobile hotspot
Wider range to connect devices
Connect other smart devices like a tablet or smart watch
A separate pool of internet data so you won’t experience reduced speeds on your smartphone for going over soft data caps
Provides an external battery to charge other devices
A second device you need to remember to charge and bring with you
Additional costs for a second device

For light data usage, a smartphone is a viable option for connecting other devices to the internet, but for long-term higher data usage and connecting more than a couple of devices, a dedicated mobile hotspot is necessary—especially if you do not have access to unlimited data with your cell phone plan.

The Best Portable Internet Plans in 2024

While many mobile carriers offer mobile hotspots, the Big 3—Verizon Wireless, AT&T Wireless, and T-Mobile—gives the best coverage options in the U.S. Of the 51 mobile broadband providers , we believe the Big 3 are worthy of your attention.

Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile have soft data caps, so you can use as much data as you want but only an allotment of 4G LTE data. The two providers also have different discounts—either by enrolling in an Unlimited Plus plan through Verizon or enrolling in AutoPay with T-Mobile. AT&T Wireless has a hard data cap and will charge an additional $10 for every 2 GB you use beyond the limit. They also don’t offer any discounts but do allow you to use hotspot data from your smartphone if you’ve already signed up with them. When deciding on a mobile hotspot plan, know that hard and soft data caps play a major role on the cost.

The Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots in 2024

Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L

Starting at $199, the Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L provides a 4400mAh battery, allowing up to 24 hours of usage. This is great for a couple of days worth of internet access without charging. The mobile hotspot device can be used in more than 200 countries, making it the perfect travel companion. The Verizon Jetpack can also connect to the 4G LTE or prior generations, broadcast up to Wi-Fi 802.11ac while supporting up to 15 devices simultaneously, and has a USB Type C port for faster charging—a standard for all new devices.

AT&T Netgear Nighthawk LTE Mobile Hotspot

The Netgear Nighthawk LTE Mobile Hotspot touts a 5040mAh that allows up to 24 hours of usage and up to 1.7 days of standby time. The mobile hotspot device costs $249.99 and supports up to 4G LTE connections, can broadcast 802.11ac while connecting up to 20 devices simultaneously, and uses USB Type C for fast charging.

T-Mobile Franklin T9 Mobile Hotspot

The Franklin T9 Mobile Hotspot, priced at $84, has a 2450mAh battery that provides about 8 hours of constant usage or 48 hours on standby, which is adequate for a full workday. It has a micro USB connection, which is disappointing, but gives you access to emergency charging, connects up to 4G LTE, and broadcasts up to Wi-Fi 802.11ac while supporting up to 15 devices simultaneously.

Skyroam Solis Mobile Hotspot

The Skyroam Solis Mobile Hotspot costs $99.99 and provides internet connections globally, including the U.S. It can connect to 4G LTE, broadcast up to a 802.11n Wi-Fi network, which is good enough for most users, and connects up to 10 devices simultaneously. The device also has a 4700mAh battery that provides 16 hours of usage, which is comparable to some of the higher-end mobile hotspot devices on the market.

The Features of Portable Internet

When choosing a mobile hotspot, there are several important features to prioritize for an optimal experience:

Network: Your mobile hotspot will only be as good as the network that supports it. Look for a network that offers internet accessibility and high speeds to the areas where you will be visiting. Many mobile hotspot devices can be used with different network providers, so deciding which networks you like best should be one of your main priorities.
Battery life and charging type: All mobile hotspot devices have different battery sizes which affect how long you can connect to the internet. Look for devices that can operate for 18 hours or more, as some can give constant usage for over 20 hours. It’s important to note that mobile hotspot devices charge with a USB Type A or C cable can be used as an external battery. We recommend devices that use the same charging type as your smartphone.
Wi-Fi: Be sure to get a mobile hotspot device that supports 2.4GHz, which allows for broad connection range, and 5GHz, which gives a faster transmission rate and reduces interference over Wi-Fi. To best utilize both Wi-Fi bands, you will want your mobile hotspot device to be up to Wi-Fi standards, including 802.11ac.
USB tethering: USB tethering allows you to connect a laptop directly to your mobile hotspot device using a USB cable. This is convenient if you’re in an area that’s overcrowded with Wi-Fi connections. USB tethering lets you bypass the risk of having a less secure and unreliable wireless connection.

How to Set up Your Portable Internet

Setting up your portable internet doesn’t require the help of a licensed technician. The following steps are a general guideline to accessing whichever mobile hotspot device you use on your smartphone.The process is pretty straightforward, so there’s no need to worry!

Before setting up a mobile hotspot device, make sure that it’s charged.
Insert a SIM card provided by the mobile carrier.
Turn on the device by holding down the power button until the screen turns on.
Follow the steps on the screen and set up a wireless network using the interface on the device.

The Future of Portable Internet

Portable internet will be a common solution for many users on the go. Countries like Japan only use mobile hotspots—otherwise known as pocket Wi-Fi—even at home! With 5G on the horizon, granting devices access to download speeds of up to 10 Gbps sounds like a far cry into the future but is definitely possible thanks to the advancement of technology. The only limiting factors may be an unstable connection and providers employing data cap restrictions. Until 5G mobile hotspots become more affordable—three times more expensive than 4G LTE mobile hotspots—and accessible, the current standard of portable internet is 4G LTE mobile hotspots for most users.

In Short: Do I Need a Mobile Hotspot?

Many mobile hotspot devices work with different mobile broadband providers , including international ones. If you feel like switching plans, most providers let you change it. This is particularly useful when you can’t afford more data. All in all, portable internet is a prime solution for travelers or individuals on-the-go. A dedicated mobile hotspot device is the best alternative for when you need access to the internet outside your home. While it doesn’t measure up to residential internet by any means, 5G internet will supposedly catch up in terms of speed and reliability. For now, though, you’ll have to make do with 4G LTE on your mobile hotspot device.

Frequently Asked Questions About Portable Internet

Which portable wi-fi is best.

The best portable Wi-Fi depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re traveling within the U.S. or need a local internet connection, Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile all offer competitive pricing and their speeds vary based on location. If you’re traveling internationally, then Verizon’s Jetpack MiFi 8800L or Skyroam Solis Mobile Hotspot are great options.

What is the best travel Wi-Fi?

The best travel Wi-Fi depends on your travel destination. If you’re traveling within the U.S., a mobile hotspot device and/or plan from a mobile broadband provider is a good place to start. Just make sure to check their coverage maps for the regions you will be traveling to. If traveling abroad, Verizon’s Jetpack MiFi 8800L or Skyroam Solis Mobile Hotspot are both great mobile hotspot devices for accessing an internet connection in a different country. Remember to check if the provider’s wireless network is compatible with the device.

Can a hotspot replace home internet?

A mobile hotspot can replace home internet if you have basic internet needs such as checking emails, surfing the web, or infrequent streaming. If you’re a frequent gamer, spend a few hours a day watching shows and movies online, or download large files, a mobile hotspot plan might not be able to support the amount of data you’re using. If that’s the case, residential internet is your ideal choice.

Is there a portable internet device?

There are various portable internet devices, or mobile hotspot devices, available depending on the location. Mobile hotspot devices from different mobile service providers allow you to connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously.

Can I get Wi-Fi without an internet provider?

You can get Wi-Fi without an internet provider, as there are many public Wi-Fi hotspots available. While convenient, public Wi-Fi hotspots pose a security risk as they can compromise your private data such as your home address and payment information. It is highly recommended that if you’re traveling and need an internet connection, you should connect to a secure Wi-Fi network, connect via a VPN, or have a personal mobile hotspot.

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Internet and Cable TV in Moscow

High-speed internet, 4g and wimax in moscow.

The modem and SIM can be bought at any telecom shop, such as Euroset, Svyaznoy, etc – there are plenty of them everywhere in Moscow.

Otherwise, you've also got high-speed internet connection in Moscow provided by local area networks (LAN), ADSL (Broadband), or cable TV. LAN's prices are often OK, but their service is not so good and the connection may sometimes go off. However, when it works, it is the fastest option (speed ~ 8Mb/sec). ADSL (Broadband) is provided by a few companies, such as MTU-Intel, Comstar (tel. +7 (495) 956-0000), Combellga (tel. +7 (495) 931-9950). The latter two offer good packages for businesses, however, if you just want high speed internet in your flat, the Stream (tel.: +7 (495) 105-5545) service is the best choice. They offer flatrate for about €30 / month with no contract, the connection speed is up to 3 Mb / sec, the setup costs wouldn't be more than $100 (including equipment) or free if there's a promotion. By the way, Yota (see above) also offers routers, which could be used at home, but you need to check the coverage first. Some cable TV providers offer internet in addition to their TV packages, but their prices and speed is not so good. In any case, you can try to Google Kosmos TV or Divo and see what they have on the offer.

Dial-Up Internet

Wi-fi (wireless internet) access points - wifi hotspots - in moscow:.

All you need is a special wireless internet adaptor card (already installed on Apple Macbook computers (airport) or PCs with Intel Centrino technology, otherwise available at any computer shop for about $30-$50). Wireless internet connection is free at most cafes and restaurants in Moscow, but some greedy places charge you about $10 per hour . It can be purchased online on the spot or at the counter (special pre-paid cards). Free WiFi Internet Access Points in Moscow:

American Bar & Grill: American-style restaurant chain, average bill: $20 per person. 1st Tverskaya-Yamskaya, #1 (metro Mayakovskaya), Opened 24 hours. And Zemlyanoy Val, #59 (metro Kurskaya, Taganskaya), Opened 12.00-2.00 (until 5.00 on sunday). Provider: Yandex , Price: Free

Santa Fe Restaurants: Mexican cuisine. Mitulinskaya st., #5/1, bld 6 (metro Ulitsa 1905 Goda). Opened 12.00-24.00, and until 3.00am on thursday, friday, saturday. Provider: Yandex , Price: Free

TGI Friday's: A typical American restaurant famous for its cocktails. Lunchs for $10. Tverskaya #18/2 (next to Kodak Cinema, metro Pushkinskaya or Tverskaya - center), Leninsky prospekt #1/2, 1 (metro Oktyabrskaya - center), Zemlyanoy Val, #33, Garibaldi, #23 (metro Novye Cheremushki - south Moscow). Opened 12.00 to 24.00 daily. Provider: Yandex , Price: Free

Il Patio Restaurants: a chain of Italian restaurants in Moscow. (#1 - metro Kropotkinskaya, Volkhonka st., #13a - near Christ the Saviour church, #2 - metro Smolenskaya, Smolenskaya street, #3). Provider: Yandex , Price: Free

Starina Myuller Restaurant : Beer restaurant. Shmitovsky proezd, #2 / 1 (metro Ulitsa 1905 Goda). Provider: Yandex , Price: Free

Grand Imperial Restaurant: Russian cuisine, average bill: $30 per person. metro Kropotkinskaya, Gagarinsky pereulok, 9/5, opened 12.00 till the last visitor. Provider: Yandex , Price: Free

Boarhouse: A popular hang-out for expats. Zemlyanoy Val, 26A (opposite metro Kurskaya). Provider: EWi-Fi.Net , Price: Free

Wireless Internet at Moscow Airports.

TGI Friday's restaurant at Shermetyevo 2 airport (2nd floor, departures hall), Opened 24 hours. Provider: Tascom , Price: $10 / hour

Domodedovo airport (international departures hall, 2nd floor, VIP hall), opened 24 hours . Provider: Tascom , Price: $10 / hour

Wireless Internet at Moscow Hotels.

Mariott Hotels (the access is purchased at the reservation desk, access available in all Mariott hotels, reception, lobby, rooms). Provider: Moscom

Wireless Internet at Moscow Cafes.

Coffee Shops Coffemania (trendy coffee-shops chain). Provider: Moscom Price: $10 / hour, $70 for 300Mb or $110 for 1.5Gb 1. Rozhdestvenka street, building 6/9/20 2. Bolshaya Nikitskaya street, building 13/6 3. Kudrinskaya Plozhad', building 46/54.

Starlite Diner (American-style cafes and restaurants). Provider: Moscom Price: $10 / hour, $70 for 300Mb or $110 for 1.5Gb 1. m. Mayakovskaya, Bolshaya Sadovaya, 16; 2. m. Dobryninskaya, Koroviy Val, 9;

Delifrance Cafe: Mayakovskaya Metro, conservatory. Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

Shokoladnitsa coffee chain (metro Barrikadnaya, Bolshaya Gruzinskaya st., 2/12, opened 24 hours . Provider: Tascom , Price: $10 / hour

Metropolis (Cafe): Sadovaya Triumfalnaya 4-10. Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

Wireless Internet at Moscow Restaurants.

Scandinavia Restaurant (an upscale and expensive restaurant). Provider: Moscom , Price: $10 / hour, $70 for 300Mb or $110 for 1.5Gb. Palashevsky per, #7. (metro Tverskaya)

La Gateau (a French restaurant) Tverskaya St., #27 (metro Tverskaya, Pushkinskaya)

Restaurant SNOBBS , 1rst Obydenskiy pereulok, building 3, 4th floor. (this restaurant is for stuck-up snobbish creatures, so use it only in emergencies or if you are a snob yourself :). Provider: Moscom , Price: $10 / hour, $70 for 300Mb or $110 for 1.5Gb Bakhus: Malaya Bronnaya St, 20A (metro Mayakovskaya or Pushkinskaya). Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

Etazh: Tverskaya Street 14 (metro Tverskaya). Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

Hard Rock Cafe: Stary Arbat 44 (metro Smolenskaya). Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

Junka - (Chinese restaurant): Tversckoy Bulvar 22, Theatre "MHAT Gorkogo" (metro Pushkinskaya, Tverskaya). Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

La Cantina: Tverskaya Street 5/6 (metro Okhotny Ryad). Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Price: from $10 / hour

Silvers (Irish Bar): Bolshoy Nikitisky Per. Provider: EWi-Fi.Net

Trivia Taverna: Spiridonovka Per . Provider: EWi-Fi.Net Smolensky Passage Trading Center (metro Smolenskaya) locations at Pizza Express restaurant, opened mon-fri 8.30-23.00, sat-sun 11.00-23.00. Provider: Tascom , Price: $10 / hour Restaurant Maner at Berlin House: metro Teatralnaya, Kuznetsky Most, Petrovka st., #5, first floor. Provider: Tascom , Price: $10 / hour

Cable TV Providers in Moscow

Below is a list of Moscow cable TV operators and their offers.

Comcor-TV (antenna, not all areas are covered yet) Internet: http://www.comcor-tv.ru Telephone: (495) 231-3333 Offers: 17 foreign channels for $13,4 / month, 10 channels for $9.1 / month, additionally internet packages for $33 / month (unlimited 256/128) or $15 / month (200Mb, 64/64) can be purchased. Installation fees vary from $20 to $50. They speak English.

Kosmos-TV (through antenna pointed towards Ostankino TV tower, good coverage) Internet: http://www.kosmos-tv.ru/ Telephone: (495) 730-0000 Offers: 23 foreign channels for $20 / month , installation fees start at $100. They speak English. Divo TV (through a standard TV cable, simple installation, cheap equipemtn, but not all areas in Moscow are covered yet) Internet: http://www.divotv.ru Telephone: (495) 787-0000 Offers: Installation fees are from $79 to $129, 21 channel package costs $10 / month, 32 channel package costs $18 / month. Film-on-demand feature is $2 one-time fee.

NTV Plus (satellite dish, available in the whole Russia) Internet: http://www.ntvplus.ru/calculator Telephone: (495) 755-5545 Offers: 40 channels (including Russian ones) for 19$ / month

Park Live Festival (July 12-14)
Picnic Afisha Festival (August 3)
Sokolniki Camping for Tents and Motorhomes in Moscow

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Travel Tips

How Has The Internet Affected The Travel And Tourism Industry

Published: December 12, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Sadie Whitney

Sustainability
Tech & Gear

Introduction

The travel and tourism industry has undergone significant transformations over the years, thanks to the advent of the internet. The integration of technology into every aspect of our lives has revolutionized the way we travel, plan our trips, book accommodations, and explore new destinations. The internet has become an indispensable tool for both travelers and industry professionals alike.

With the click of a button, travelers can compare prices, read reviews, and make reservations, all from the comfort of their own homes. The internet has made it easier than ever to research and plan trips, connect with other travelers, and discover hidden gems around the world.

In this article, we will explore the ways in which the internet has impacted the travel and tourism industry. From the emergence of online travel agencies and booking platforms to the role of social media and virtual reality, we will delve into the various ways technology has shaped the way we travel.

Furthermore, we will discuss the challenges that come with the digital era, such as cybersecurity risks and the role of big data in personalizing travel experiences. Lastly, we will explore the future of the internet in the travel and tourism industry and the exciting possibilities it holds.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to embark on a journey through the digital revolution that has transformed the way we explore the world.

The Evolution of the Travel and Tourism Industry

The travel and tourism industry has come a long way since its early days. From the days of hand-written travel itineraries and storefront travel agencies, we have witnessed a remarkable evolution driven by advancements in technology.

One of the key factors that led to the growth of the travel industry was the development of transportation infrastructure. The construction of railways, roads, and airports made travel more accessible and affordable. This, coupled with an increase in leisure time and disposable income, fueled the rise of tourism.

In the early 20th century, the industry saw the emergence of travel agencies, which acted as intermediaries between travelers and hotels, airlines, and other service providers. People relied on these agencies for information, bookings, and recommendations. However, the process was time-consuming and relied heavily on face-to-face interactions.

The internet changed everything. With the advent of the World Wide Web in the 1990s, the travel industry entered a new era. Information that was previously available only through brochures and travel agencies became accessible to anyone with an internet connection. The internet empowered travelers to research destinations, compare prices, and book flights and accommodations directly.

Today, the travel and tourism industry is more accessible and diverse than ever before. Travelers have access to an abundance of online resources, such as travel blogs, review websites, and social media platforms, that allow them to gather information and make informed decisions.

Additionally, technological advancements have made it easier for people to travel to off-the-beaten-path destinations. Improved infrastructure, transportation options, and navigation tools have opened up new possibilities for travelers, encouraging them to explore lesser-known places and contribute to local economies.

Furthermore, the rise of the sharing economy has disrupted the traditional travel industry. Platforms like Airbnb and Uber have allowed individuals to monetize their assets, such as spare rooms or cars, and offer unique experiences to travelers. This has given rise to a more personalized and immersive travel experience.

From the basic need for transportation to the desire for experiential travel, the travel and tourism industry has transformed into a dynamic and ever-changing sector. The internet has been a driving force behind this evolution, empowering travelers and reshaping the way we explore the world.

The Emergence of the Internet

The internet, a global network of interconnected computers, has revolutionized every aspect of our lives, including the way we travel and experience the world. It all started in the late 20th century with the development of ARPANET, a network created by the United States Department of Defense. This network connected various universities, research institutions, and government agencies, setting the foundation for what would become the modern internet.

As the internet grew, it expanded into the commercial sector and became accessible to the general public. In the early 1990s, the World Wide Web was introduced, and with it came a new era of connectivity and information sharing. Suddenly, people had the ability to access vast amounts of information, communicate with others around the world, and conduct transactions online.

The emergence of the internet had a profound impact on the travel and tourism industry. It completely transformed the way people plan and book their trips. Prior to the internet, travelers relied on travel agencies and guidebooks to gather information and make reservations. The process was time-consuming and often limited in options.

With the internet, travelers gained access to a wealth of information at their fingertips. They could research destinations, compare prices, and read reviews from other travelers. Online travel agencies and booking platforms emerged, offering a convenient one-stop-shop for travelers to search and book flights, accommodations, and other travel services.

Moreover, the internet gave rise to a new generation of independent travelers. Armed with online resources and social media platforms, individuals could now plan and customize their own itineraries, uncover hidden gems, and connect with like-minded travelers. The internet became a tool for empowerment, enabling people to have more control and flexibility over their travel experiences.

Not only did the internet transform the way we plan and book trips, but it also changed the way we experience and share our travels. Travelers began documenting and sharing their journeys through blogs and social media platforms. This created a virtual community of travelers, inspiring and informing others through their experiences and recommendations.

Overall, the emergence of the internet democratized the travel and tourism industry. It broke down barriers and empowered both travelers and industry professionals to connect, engage, and explore the world in new and exciting ways. The internet continues to evolve, and it will undoubtedly shape the future of travel and tourism in ways we can’t yet fully imagine.

The Impact of the Internet on the Travel and Tourism Industry

The internet has had a tremendous impact on the travel and tourism industry, transforming it in profound ways. It has revolutionized the way people plan their trips, book accommodations, and share their travel experiences. Let’s explore some of the key impacts of the internet on this industry:

1. Accessibility and Convenience: The internet has made travel more accessible than ever before. With just a few clicks, travelers can access a vast array of information, compare prices, and book their flights, accommodations, and other travel services. This convenience has empowered travelers to plan and customize their own trips according to their preferences and budgets.

2. Direct Bookings: The internet has facilitated direct bookings through hotel and airline websites. Travelers no longer have to rely on intermediaries or travel agencies to make reservations. They can now book directly with the service providers, often benefiting from lower prices and special offers.

3. Online Travel Agencies: The emergence of online travel agencies (OTAs) has transformed the distribution channels in the travel industry. OTAs provide a platform where travelers can search for and compare prices from multiple airlines, hotels, and other travel service providers. This has increased competition, resulting in more options and competitive pricing for travelers.

4. Social Media Influence: Social media platforms have become influential in shaping travel trends and decisions. Travelers can now seek inspiration, discover new destinations, and receive recommendations from friends, influencers, and travel communities. Social media has also given destinations and businesses a direct channel to engage with potential customers and showcase their offerings.

5. Online Reviews and Ratings: Travel review websites have empowered travelers with the ability to read and leave reviews, contributing to a transparent and accountable travel industry. People can now make informed decisions based on the experiences and opinions of other travelers.

6. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality: The internet has also brought about the integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in the travel industry. These technologies allow travelers to virtually experience destinations, hotels, and attractions before making their bookings. This immersive experience helps travelers make more informed choices and enhances their overall travel experience.

7. Mobile Apps: Mobile apps have become an essential tool for travelers. From trip planning to navigation, language translation to mobile check-ins, there is an app for every travel need. These apps provide convenience and real-time information, making travel easier and more efficient.

8. E-commerce and Online Payments: The internet has transformed the way payments are made in the travel industry. Online payment options have become integral, offering security and convenience for travelers. E-commerce platforms have also expanded opportunities for businesses to reach a wider audience and sell their travel-related products and services.

Overall, the internet has played a pivotal role in shaping the travel and tourism industry. It has empowered and connected travelers, providing more options, information, and convenience. As technology continues to advance, the impact of the internet on travel will only continue to grow, enhancing our experiences and opening up new possibilities for exploration.

Online Travel Agencies and Booking Platforms

The rise of online travel agencies (OTAs) and booking platforms has transformed the travel and tourism industry, providing travelers with a convenient and efficient way to search, compare, and book their trips. These platforms have revolutionized the booking process, offering a wide range of options, competitive pricing, and user-friendly interfaces. Let’s delve into the key aspects of online travel agencies and booking platforms:

1. Comprehensive Search Capabilities: Online travel agencies aggregate vast amounts of travel-related information, including flights, accommodations, car rentals, and activities. Travelers can easily search for their desired destinations, input their preferred travel dates, and browse through a plethora of options to find the best fit for their needs and preferences.

2. Price Comparison: One of the major advantages of booking through online travel agencies is the ability to compare prices from various providers. OTAs display prices from multiple airlines, hotels, and other service providers in a single search. This allows travelers to find the most competitive prices and select the best value for their money.

3. Convenience and Time-Saving: Travelers can now plan and book their entire trips in one place, eliminating the need to visit multiple websites or make numerous phone calls. Online travel agencies offer a seamless booking experience, streamlining the process and saving valuable time.

4. Special Deals and Packages: Online travel agencies often offer exclusive deals, discounts, and package bundles that may not be available elsewhere. Travelers can take advantage of these offers to save money on their trips or access additional benefits and perks.

5. User Reviews and Ratings: Online travel agencies often provide a platform for travelers to leave reviews and ratings for the services they have utilized. These reviews can help travelers make informed decisions, gauge the quality of accommodations or services, and choose options that align with their preferences and expectations.

6. Customer Support: Many online travel agencies offer round-the-clock customer support, assisting travelers with any queries or issues that may arise before, during, or after their trips. This level of support provides peace of mind and ensures a smooth travel experience.

7. Flexibility and Personalization: Online travel agencies allow travelers to customize their trips based on their preferences and budget. They can select specific flights, accommodations, and add-ons according to their individual needs. This flexibility empowers travelers to create personalized itineraries and tailor their trips to their liking.

8. Global Reach: Online travel agencies have a vast network of service providers, giving travelers access to international options and destinations. They enable travelers to explore and book trips to remote locations that may have been challenging to access through traditional travel agents.

With the convenience, variety, and competitive options they offer, online travel agencies and booking platforms have become an integral part of the modern travel industry. They have transformed the way travelers plan, research, and book their trips, making the process faster, more efficient, and more accessible to a broader audience.

Direct Bookings through Hotel and Airline Websites

In addition to online travel agencies and booking platforms, the internet has enabled travelers to make direct bookings through hotel and airline websites. This shift in the booking process has given travelers more control and flexibility over their travel plans and offers several advantages:

1. Lower Prices and Offers: Booking directly through hotel and airline websites can often lead to lower prices compared to third-party platforms. Many hotels and airlines offer exclusive discounts, promotions, and loyalty programs for direct bookings. These cost savings can make a significant difference in the overall travel expenses.

2. Access to Special Packages and Upgrades: Hotel and airline websites often provide special packages and upgrade options for direct bookings. These packages may include additional amenities, such as complimentary breakfast, airport transfers, or access to exclusive facilities. Travelers can take advantage of these offerings to enhance their travel experience.

3. Flexibility in Selecting Specific Amenities or Room Types: Direct bookings allow travelers to have more control over the specific amenities or room types they desire. Hotel websites provide detailed information about the available amenities, room configurations, and views, enabling travelers to select accommodations that meet their preferences and requirements.

4. Seamless Communication and Customer Service: Direct bookings establish a direct line of communication between travelers and hotels or airlines. This can be valuable in ensuring a smooth and personalized experience. Travelers can coordinate specific requests, such as early check-ins or dietary requirements, and receive prompt assistance from the hotel or airline’s customer service teams.

5. Earn and Redeem Loyalty Points: Direct bookings often allow travelers to earn and redeem loyalty points offered by hotels and airlines. These points can be accrued over time and can lead to various benefits, such as free nights, flight upgrades, or access to exclusive lounges. Loyalty programs incentivize travelers to continuously book directly with their preferred brands.

6. Transparency in Policies and Terms: Engaging in direct bookings ensures that travelers have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions set by the hotels or airlines. This includes cancellation policies, refund processes, and any other relevant rules and regulations. Having this transparency can help travelers make well-informed decisions and avoid any surprises.

7. Direct Communication for Changes or Modifications: If changes or modifications to travel plans become necessary, booking directly provides a direct line of communication with hotels or airlines. This enables travelers to easily manage their bookings, request changes, or address any unexpected events or circumstances that may arise.

Direct bookings through hotel and airline websites offer travelers a range of benefits, including cost savings, access to special offers, personalized experiences, and the ability to earn loyalty rewards. With the rise of user-friendly and secure booking platforms, travelers now have more options and control over their travel arrangements, ensuring a seamless and customized travel experience.

Social Media and Travel Recommendations

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and it has also had a significant impact on the travel and tourism industry. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube have transformed the way we seek and share travel recommendations. Here’s a closer look at how social media has influenced the way we discover and plan our travels:

1. Inspiration and Discovery: Social media platforms are a treasure trove of travel inspiration. From breathtaking landscapes to mouth-watering cuisine, users share their travel experiences through photos, videos, and posts. By browsing travel-related hashtags or following travel influencers, users can explore new destinations and discover hidden gems they may have never heard of before.

2. Authentic User-generated Content: Social media provides real-time insights into the travel experiences of other users. People share their honest opinions, recommendations, and experiences, creating a vast repository of user-generated content. This content is often more authentic and relatable than traditional marketing campaigns, helping travelers make informed decisions based on real-life experiences.

3. Peer Recommendations and Reviews: Social media platforms enable travelers to receive recommendations and reviews from their friends, family, and online communities. The ability to gather insights and firsthand experiences from people they trust can significantly influence decision-making. Users can ask questions, seek advice, and receive personalized suggestions from those who have already visited a particular destination or experienced a specific hotel or activity.

4. Influencer Marketing: Social media influencers, with their large followings and expertise in travel, have become powerful voices in the industry. Influencers share their travel experiences, tips, and recommendations, often partnering with brands to promote specific destinations, hotels, or travel services. Their recommendations hold sway over their followers, shaping travel trends and influencing the choices of many travelers.

5. Real-time Updates and Deals: Hotels, airlines, and travel companies use social media platforms to share real-time updates and exclusive deals. Travelers can stay informed about flash sales, last-minute promotions, and limited-time offers that may help them score discounted prices or additional perks for their trips.

6. Visual Inspiration: Social media platforms, particularly image-focused platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, provide abundant visual inspiration for travelers. Stunning photographs showcase picturesque destinations, incredible landmarks, and tantalizing foods, inspiring users to create their own travel experiences. Visual content plays a crucial role in motivating and influencing travel decisions.

7. Trip Planning and Collaboration: Social media platforms offer users the opportunity to plan and collaborate on trips with friends and family. Travelers can create group chats, share itineraries, and collaborate on decision-making, making trip planning a more interactive and enjoyable experience.

Social media has transformed the way we seek travel recommendations and discover new destinations. It has given travelers a platform to share their experiences, connect with communities of like-minded individuals, and gather real-time information from trusted sources. In an era of digital connectivity, social media has become an invaluable tool for travel inspiration, research, and collaboration.

Online Reviews and Ratings

Online reviews and ratings have become an essential part of the travel and tourism industry. Platforms dedicated to reviewing and rating travel experiences, such as TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews, have transformed the way travelers make decisions and choose their accommodations, restaurants, attractions, and more. Here’s a closer look at the significance of online reviews and ratings in the travel industry:

1. Authentic User Experiences: Online reviews provide travelers with insights into the experiences of real people who have visited a particular destination, stayed at a hotel, or dined at a restaurant. These firsthand accounts are often more trustworthy compared to marketing materials or promotional content.

2. Transparency and Accountability: Online reviews and ratings contribute to a more transparent and accountable travel industry. Service providers are incentivized to offer high-quality experiences and meet travelers’ expectations, as negative reviews can greatly impact their reputation and business.

3. Informed Decision Making: Travelers can make more informed decisions by reading online reviews and ratings. They can gain insights into the quality of services, cleanliness, customer service, and other important factors that may influence their travel experience. Such information helps travelers align their expectations and choose options that best suit their needs and preferences.

4. Objective Reviews: Online review platforms often have guidelines and policies in place to ensure objective and unbiased reviews. This provides travelers with a more accurate representation of the experiences they can expect and helps them evaluate the credibility of various reviews.

5. Specific Feedback: Online reviews allow travelers to leave specific feedback, highlighting both positive aspects and areas for improvement. This feedback not only helps other travelers but also provides valuable insights for service providers who can make necessary adjustments to enhance their offerings.

6. Comparative Analysis: Travelers can compare multiple options through online reviews. They can evaluate various hotels, attractions, or dining options based on user feedback, enabling them to weigh the pros and cons and choose the option that aligns with their preferences and priorities.

7. Response and Engagement: Online reviews also provide an avenue for service providers to engage with their customers. Hotel managers, restaurant owners, and attraction operators can publicly respond to reviews, thanking customers for positive feedback or addressing concerns raised by dissatisfied customers. This level of engagement showcases a commitment to customer satisfaction and allows for open dialogue.

8. Constantly Updated Information: Online review platforms provide up-to-date information as reviews are continuously posted by fellow travelers. This ensures that the information is current and reflects recent experiences, allowing travelers to have the most accurate and relevant insights.

Online reviews and ratings have revolutionized the travel industry by putting the power of choice and information in the hands of travelers. They have fostered transparency, accountability, and the democratization of reviews, leading to a more informed and empowered community of travelers.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality in Travel

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have emerged as exciting technologies with the potential to transform the travel industry. They offer immersive and interactive experiences that enhance the way we explore and engage with destinations, hotels, attractions, and more. Let’s take a closer look at how VR and AR are shaping the future of travel:

1. Virtual Destination Exploration: VR allows travelers to virtually explore destinations before they even set foot there. By wearing a VR headset, users can be transported to iconic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and historic sites. This immersive experience gives travelers a taste of what to expect, helping them make more informed decisions and sparking excitement for their upcoming trips.

2. Virtual Museum and Cultural Experiences: VR recreates cultural and historical sites, providing users with virtual tours of museums, religious sites, and significant architectural landmarks. Through VR, travelers can gain valuable insights into cultural heritage and history, learn about art, and access experiences that would otherwise be inaccessible or limited by physical constraints.

3. Simulated Hotel Room Experience: VR enables travelers to virtually tour hotel rooms and accommodations. By using VR technology, potential guests can explore room layouts, amenities, and even the views from the windows, helping them make more informed decisions and choose accommodations that suit their preferences.

4. Enhanced Attraction Experiences: AR can enhance attractions by overlaying digital information on the physical environment. For example, visitors to historical sites can use AR-enabled devices to view 3D reconstructions of ancient structures, seeing how they would have looked in their prime. AR can also enhance interactive displays and provide real-time information about exhibits, adding a new layer of engagement to the visitor experience.

5. Gamified Travel Experiences: AR can turn travel into a game-like experience. By using AR technology, travelers can embark on interactive scavenger hunts or guided tours that blend digital elements with the real world. This gamification adds an element of fun, interactivity, and discovery to travel, particularly for families and younger generations.

6. Navigation and Wayfinding: Both VR and AR can assist travelers with navigation and wayfinding, particularly in unfamiliar destinations. AR overlays digital information onto the user’s physical surroundings, providing real-time directions, points of interest, and helpful contextual information.

7. Marketing and Promotional Tools: VR and AR technologies are increasingly being used by travel brands for marketing and promotional purposes. They allow potential customers to virtually experience destinations, accommodations, or attractions, showcasing the unique features and offerings in an engaging and interactive way.

8. Accessibility for All: VR and AR have the potential to make travel more accessible for individuals with mobility or health limitations. By providing virtual experiences and tours, people who are unable to physically visit certain destinations can still explore and engage with them in a meaningful way.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are revolutionizing the way we experience and engage with travel destinations, accommodations, attractions, and culture. These technologies have the power to enhance the travel journey, spark excitement, and provide valuable insights, ultimately shaping the future of the travel industry.

The Rise of Online Travel Communities

Online travel communities have emerged as vibrant platforms where travelers from around the world connect, share experiences, and seek advice. These communities provide a space for individuals with a common interest in travel to come together, exchange information, and inspire each other to explore new destinations. Here’s a closer look at the rise of online travel communities and their impact on the travel industry:

1. Sharing Personal Experiences: Online travel communities allow travelers to share their personal experiences, both good and bad. They can write detailed travelogues, share photos and videos, and provide insights into their journeys. This helps fellow travelers gain valuable first-hand information and recommendations, gaining a deeper understanding of what to expect in different destinations.

2. Tips and Advice: Travel communities serve as a valuable resource for trip planning. Travelers can seek advice on the best time to visit a destination, must-see attractions, local customs, and travel logistics. They can benefit from the expertise of experienced travelers, tapping into a wealth of knowledge that can enhance their own travel experiences.

3. Emotional Support and Encouragement: Travel can sometimes be challenging, and online travel communities provide emotional support and encouragement. Members can discuss their fears, concerns, and challenges, and receive guidance or reassurance from others who have faced similar situations. This sense of community helps travelers feel connected and supported throughout their journeys.

4. Local Insights: Online travel communities often include members who are locals or have lived in certain destinations for an extended period. These individuals can provide valuable insights into their home countries or cities, offering authentic recommendations for off-the-beaten-path attractions, local cuisine, and cultural experiences that may not be found in guidebooks.

5. Networking and Collaboration: Online travel communities enable travelers to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals. They can find travel buddies, join group trips, or share the costs of accommodations and transportation. This fosters a sense of camaraderie and can lead to lifelong friendships formed through shared travel experiences.

6. Crowd-Sourced Recommendations: Online travel communities rely on the collective wisdom of the community members. Through crowd-sourced recommendations, travelers can access a diverse range of opinions and experiences, helping them make informed decisions about their travel plans.

7. Inspiring Wanderlust: Online travel communities are a constant source of inspiration. Members share their breathtaking photos, captivating stories, and passionate narratives, igniting wanderlust in others and encouraging them to explore new destinations or embark on new adventures.

8. Influencing Travel Trends: Online travel communities play a significant role in shaping travel trends. The recommendations and experiences shared by members can influence the choices of others, putting destinations and experiences in the spotlight and encouraging travelers to seek out similar adventures.

The rise of online travel communities has transformed the way we engage with travel. These communities have created a global network of passionate travelers who connect, share, and support each other on their journeys. By tapping into the collective knowledge and experiences of these communities, travelers can enhance their own adventures and create meaningful connections with others who share their love for exploration.

Mobile Apps and Travel Planning

Mobile apps have become indispensable tools for travelers, revolutionizing the way we plan, organize, and navigate our trips. These apps offer a range of features and functionalities that enhance the travel planning process, making it more convenient, efficient, and personalized. Here’s a closer look at how mobile apps have transformed travel planning:

1. Trip and Itinerary Organization: Mobile apps allow travelers to create and organize their trip itineraries in one place. Users can input their travel dates, add activities, attractions, and reservations, and customize their schedule. This helps travelers stay organized and ensures they make the most of their time at each destination.

2. Real-Time Navigation: Mobile apps provide navigation tools that help travelers navigate unfamiliar locations. They offer real-time GPS guidance, turn-by-turn directions, and information about public transportation options. This ensures travelers can easily find their way around, even in foreign cities or remote areas.

3. Travel Booking and Reservations: Many travel apps allow users to book flights, accommodations, car rentals, and other travel services directly from their mobile devices. This eliminates the need to visit multiple websites or make phone calls, making the booking process quick and convenient.

4. Currency Conversion and Financial Management: Travel apps offer currency conversion tools, allowing users to easily convert currencies and track exchange rates. They also help travelers track their expenses, manage budgets, and monitor their spending to ensure they stay within their financial limits.

5. Language Translation: Mobile apps provide language translation features, enabling travelers to communicate with locals even if they don’t speak the local language. These apps can instantly translate text, speech, or even signs, facilitating communication and breaking down language barriers.

6. Local Recommendations and Reviews: Many travel apps provide curated recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and activities based on user reviews and ratings. These recommendations help travelers discover hidden gems and find authentic experiences that may not be included in traditional guidebooks.

7. Transportation and Flight Updates: Travel apps offer real-time information about flight statuses, gate changes, delays, and other updates. They also provide information about public transportation options, schedules, and routes, making it easier for travelers to navigate local transport systems.

8. Travel Insurance and Emergency Assistance: Some travel apps offer the ability to purchase travel insurance and provide access to emergency assistance services. Travelers can easily access important contact numbers, medical information, and document backup services in case of emergencies or unexpected situations.

Mobile apps have fundamentally transformed the travel planning process, putting essential tools and information at our fingertips. They empower travelers to stay organized, navigate with ease, access real-time updates, and make informed decisions. With the continued advancement of mobile technology, travel apps will undoubtedly play an even more significant role in the future of travel planning.

E-commerce and Online Payments in the Travel Industry

The travel industry has fully embraced e-commerce and online payments, transforming the way travelers plan, book, and pay for their trips. The convenience, security, and speed of online transactions have revolutionized the travel industry, providing a seamless experience for travelers and streamlining operations for travel providers. Here’s a closer look at the impact of e-commerce and online payments in the travel industry:

1. Convenient Booking Process: E-commerce has made travel booking incredibly convenient. Travelers can search for flights, accommodations, car rentals, and other travel services through online platforms or websites. The entire booking process can be completed with a few clicks, eliminating the need to visit physical travel agencies or make phone calls.

2. Comparison Shopping: Online platforms provide travelers with the ability to compare prices, services, and offers from different providers. This empowers travelers to make informed decisions and choose the options that suit their budget and preferences.

3. Access to Exclusive Deals and Discounts: Online travel agencies and travel providers often offer exclusive deals and discounts for online bookings. Travelers can take advantage of these offers to secure better prices or access additional perks and benefits such as complimentary breakfast or room upgrades.

4. Secure Online Payments: E-commerce platforms in the travel industry prioritize the security of online transactions. Robust encryption and authentication measures are in place to protect travelers’ payment information, ensuring that their personal and financial data remains secure.

5. Multiple Payment Options: Online travel platforms now offer a variety of payment options to cater to the needs of global travelers. Beyond traditional credit and debit card payments, travelers can often use alternative methods such as digital wallets or bank transfers, making the payment process more convenient and flexible.

6. Faster Confirmation and Instant Booking: Online payments enable travelers to receive instant booking confirmations. With just a few clicks, their reservations are confirmed, and they can receive e-tickets or vouchers. This real-time confirmation eliminates the need to wait for emails or physical tickets, enhancing the efficiency of the booking process.

7. Streamlined Operations for Travel Providers: E-commerce and online payments have streamlined operations for travel providers. They allow for seamless integration with distribution systems, inventory management, and customer relationship management tools. This streamlining of processes improves efficiency, reduces manual errors, and enables better customer service.

8. Transparency and Accountability: Online payments provide a transparent record of transactions, making it easier for travelers and travel providers to track and manage their payments. This transparency ensures that the financial aspect of the travel process is clear and accountable to both parties.

E-commerce and online payments have transformed the travel industry by providing a convenient and secure way for travelers to book and pay for their trips. As technology continues to advance, this trend is likely to continue, further enhancing the travel experience and simplifying transactions for both travelers and travel providers.

The Role of Big Data and Analytics

Big data and analytics have become integral to the travel industry, playing a significant role in shaping strategies, enhancing operations, and personalizing the travel experience. The vast amount of data generated by travelers, booking platforms, and other sources provides valuable insights that help travel companies make informed decisions and deliver tailored services. Here’s a closer look at the role of big data and analytics in the travel industry:

1. Personalized Travel Experiences: Big data and analytics enable travel companies to collect and analyze vast amounts of customer data. This data includes travel preferences, booking history, and customer feedback. By leveraging this information, companies can personalize the travel experience, recommending tailored offerings, such as accommodations, activities, or promotions that align with individual preferences.

2. Demand Forecasting and Pricing: Through advanced analytics, travel companies can forecast demand patterns and adjust pricing strategies accordingly. By analyzing historical booking data, market trends, and external factors, companies can optimize pricing, ensuring competitive rates while maximizing revenue.

3. Route Optimization and Efficiency: Big data analytics can optimize route planning, resource allocation, and scheduling for airlines and other transportation providers. By analyzing historical travel data, weather patterns, and other relevant factors, companies can identify the most efficient routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve operational efficiency.

4. Customer Segmentation and Targeting: Big data allows travel companies to segment customers based on demographics, behavior, and preferences. This segmentation helps companies create targeted marketing campaigns and deliver personalized offers to specific customer groups. By tailoring promotions and communications, companies can improve customer engagement and drive loyalty.

5. Trend Analysis and Market Insights: Big data analytics enable travel companies to identify emerging trends and market insights. By monitoring social media conversations, online reviews, and search trends, companies can stay ahead of competitors, understand customer sentiment, and make data-driven decisions regarding new offerings or market expansion.

6. Risk Assessment and Crisis Management: Big data plays a crucial role in risk assessment and crisis management for the travel industry. Companies can analyze real-time data, such as weather conditions, geopolitical events, and health alerts, to assess potential risks to travelers. This allows for proactive measures, such as adjusting itineraries or providing timely warnings.

7. Operational Efficiency and Resource Planning: Big data and analytics help travel companies optimize operations and resource planning. By analyzing data on occupancy rates, booking patterns, and staff availability, companies can streamline operations, allocate resources efficiently, and improve overall service quality.

8. Enhancing Customer Service: Big data analytics can provide insights into customer preferences, behaviors, and satisfaction levels. By analyzing customer feedback and sentiment, companies can identify areas for improvement, address issues, and enhance the overall customer service experience.

Big data and analytics have transformed the travel industry, enabling companies to leverage data to deliver personalized experiences, optimize operations, and make data-driven decisions. As technology continues to advance, the role of big data in the travel industry will only continue to grow, driving innovation and enhancing the overall travel experience.

Cybersecurity Challenges in the Travel and Tourism Industry

The travel and tourism industry has become increasingly digitalized, with a vast amount of customer data, online transactions, and interconnected systems. However, this digital transformation also brings forth cybersecurity challenges that can have significant implications for travelers and travel companies. Let’s explore some of the key cybersecurity challenges in the travel and tourism industry:

1. Data Breaches and Personal Information Protection: The travel industry collects and stores a vast amount of personal and financial data from travelers. This includes passport information, credit card details, and travel preferences. Cybercriminals target this sensitive information for identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities. Companies must invest in robust cybersecurity measures to protect customer data and ensure compliance with data protection regulations.

2. Payment Card Data Security: Online transactions in the travel industry involve the exchange of payment card data. Cybercriminals often target these transactions, looking for vulnerabilities in payment systems to steal card numbers and sensitive authentication data. Travel companies should implement secure payment gateways and comply with industry standards, such as the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS), to protect customer payment card data.

3. Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks: Cybercriminals often use phishing emails, fake websites, or social engineering techniques to trick travelers into disclosing personal information or login credentials. These attacks can lead to identity theft or unauthorized access to sensitive accounts. Travel companies should educate customers about phishing risks and implement measures, such as multi-factor authentication, to mitigate these threats.

4. Wi-Fi and Mobile Device Security: Public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, and other tourist destinations pose security risks as cybercriminals can eavesdrop on communication and intercept sensitive data. Travelers’ mobile devices are also vulnerable to malware and data theft. Travel companies should educate customers about the risks of using public Wi-Fi, recommend the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), and promote security practices, such as device encryption and regular software updates.

5. Supply Chain and Third-party Risks: Travel companies often rely on third-party vendors and partners for various services, such as reservations, payment processing, or customer support. However, these dependencies can introduce cybersecurity risks. Cybercriminals may target vulnerabilities in third-party systems to gain unauthorized access to customer data or disrupt operations. Companies should conduct due diligence when engaging with third-party vendors and ensure they have robust security measures in place.

6. Ransomware Attacks and Business Continuity: Ransomware attacks, where cybercriminals encrypt data and demand a ransom for its release, can severely impact travel companies’ operations. A successful attack can disrupt services, compromise customer information, and result in financial losses. Robust backup strategies, system monitoring, and employee training are vital in mitigating the risks of ransomware attacks and ensuring business continuity.

7. Insider Threats and Employee Awareness: Insider threats, whether intentional or accidental, can compromise the security of travel companies’ systems and data. Employees with access to sensitive information need to be aware of cybersecurity best practices and trained to identify and report suspicious activities. Implementing access controls, monitoring systems, and regular security awareness programs can help mitigate insider threats.

8. Regulatory Compliance and Data Privacy: The travel industry operates in a highly regulated environment concerning data privacy and protection. Companies need to comply with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). Failure to comply with these regulations can result in significant penalties and reputational damage.

Addressing the cybersecurity challenges in the travel and tourism industry requires a multi-faceted approach. Travel companies must invest in robust cybersecurity measures, educate employees and customers about best practices, establish comprehensive incident response plans, and stay updated on emerging threats to protect both their own systems and the personal information of their customers.

The Future of the Internet in Travel and Tourism

The internet has already transformed the travel and tourism industry, but its impact is far from over. As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the future holds exciting possibilities for how the internet will further enhance travel experiences. Here’s a glimpse into what the future may hold for the internet in travel and tourism:

1. Hyper-Personalization: The internet will enable even more personalized travel experiences. Through advanced data analytics and artificial intelligence, travel companies will be able to analyze vast amounts of data to tailor offerings based on individual preferences, previous travel experiences, and real-time context. This hyper-personalization will create more meaningful and customized travel journeys.

2. Virtual and Augmented Reality Integration: Virtual and augmented reality technologies will become more immersive and accessible, allowing travelers to virtually experience destinations, accommodations, and attractions before making bookings. This will significantly enhance trip planning and decision-making, giving travelers a better sense of what to expect and enabling them to make more informed choices.

3. Internet of Things (IoT) in Travel: The integration of IoT devices will revolutionize the travel experience. Smart hotel rooms will offer personalized environments that adjust to a traveler’s preferences, such as temperature, lighting, and entertainment. Baggage tracking systems will become more advanced, ensuring travelers’ luggage never gets lost. IoT devices will enhance safety and security, facilitate seamless transportation, and provide real-time updates to enhance the overall travel experience.

4. Voice Technology and Virtual Assistants: Voice-controlled technology will become more prevalent in the travel industry. Virtual assistants, powered by artificial intelligence, will assist travelers throughout their journey, providing real-time information, personalized recommendations, and even making bookings or changes to travel plans. Voice-controlled devices will be integrated into hotel rooms, cars, and other travel spaces, allowing travelers to interact effortlessly with their surroundings.

5. Blockchain for Trust and Security: Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize trust and security in the travel industry. By providing an immutable and transparent ledger, blockchain can enhance data security, prevent fraud, and streamline processes such as identity verification and payment transactions. Smart contracts powered by blockchain may also facilitate secure and efficient agreements between travelers and service providers.

6. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Customer Service: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants will become more sophisticated, offering personalized and efficient customer service. Natural language processing and machine learning algorithms will enable chatbots to handle complex queries, provide instant responses, and offer personalized recommendations. This will enhance the customer experience and improve customer service efficiency for travel companies.

7. Seamless Integration of Travel Services: The future of the internet in travel will involve seamless integration of various travel services. Travel platforms will provide end-to-end solutions, allowing travelers to book flights, accommodations, activities, and transportation, all in one place. Integration with local services such as dining reservations, event tickets, and local recommendations will further enhance the overall travel experience.

8. Sustainability and Responsible Travel: The internet will play a crucial role in promoting sustainable and responsible travel practices. Online platforms will provide information and resources to travelers, encouraging eco-friendly choices and supporting local communities. Internet-based initiatives and collaborations will help raise awareness and facilitate positive change in the travel industry.

The future of the internet in travel and tourism is exciting and full of potential. It will continue to transform the way we plan, book, and experience travel, making it more personalized, seamless, and immersive. Embracing these technological advancements will not only enhance the travel experience for individuals but also contribute to the sustainable and responsible growth of the overall industry.

The internet has revolutionized the travel and tourism industry, transforming the way we plan our trips, book accommodations, and explore the world. It has brought convenience, accessibility, and personalization to every aspect of travel. From online travel agencies and booking platforms to social media recommendations and virtual reality experiences, the internet has reshaped the way we interact with destinations and connect with fellow travelers.

As technology continues to advance, the future of the internet in travel holds even more exciting possibilities. With hyper-personalization, virtual reality integration, and the rise of voice technology and artificial intelligence, we can expect even more tailored and immersive travel experiences. The seamless integration of IoT devices and the deployment of blockchain technology will enhance security, streamline operations, and promote trust among travelers and service providers.

Moreover, responsible travel and sustainability will also be at the forefront of the internet-driven travel industry. Online platforms will play a vital role in raising awareness, supporting local communities, and promoting eco-friendly choices for travelers.

In conclusion, the internet has become an indispensable tool for both travelers and industry professionals. It has empowered individuals to take control of their travel experiences, discover new destinations, and connect with a global community of like-minded travelers. The future of the internet in travel promises endless possibilities, making travel more personalized, seamless, and sustainable.

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Great free internet in lovely outdoor... - Anderson

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“Great free internet in lovely outdoor seating cafe” Review of Anderson

Menu in English - prices are reasonable - music in English- food was yummy with nice presentation - I would return any beautiful afternoon to enjoy this lovely place

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8 - 12 of 285 reviews

We are going to Anderson, minimum 3 times a month, Our son loves the place especially play-room, he loves their food especially Pilmeniki and sweet corns. Their patty with Spinach and with meat so tasty.

You feel at home in this place. Nice atmosphere and interior, helpful staff, delicious food, which is served really fast even if the cafe is full. The director is very nice and treats this cafe as her home, always being in the hall with the customers, which makes them feel really comfortable. One more thing is that even before ordering, a jug of drinking water is served to each table, which I have never seen in Moscow before and which makes you feel at home too. Everything is great! I'd say it's one of the best places I've come across in the past couple of years.

They make it a special point to accommodate for the visitors with children - and it really works, - but not at the cost of those without children. So even if you are a couple of two you will find it nice and welcoming with well-trained staff, decent "grown-up" cuisine and extensive drink list. Their cafes are located throughout Moscow - from the center to quiet side-streets frequented by locals

Very cosy cafe with a European touch. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and special tea coffee and irresistible cakes. If you bring children along you can let them play in the amazing playroom.

Good afternoon, Laila! Thank you for your good review about Anderson! We try very hard to be a place where it is always fun and exciting for children and comfortable and cozy for their parents! Hope to see you again, the team of café and confectioner’s network AnderSon =)

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Automakers Are Sharing Consumers’ Driving Behavior With Insurance Companies

LexisNexis, which generates consumer risk profiles for the insurers, knew about every trip G.M. drivers had taken in their cars, including when they sped, braked too hard or accelerated rapidly.

Some drivers of General Motors cars, like these Chevrolet Bolts, may not realize that their driving data is being shared with insurance companies. Credit... Carlos Osorio/Associated Press

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By Kashmir Hill

Kashmir Hill has been writing about technology and privacy for more than a decade.

Published March 11, 2024 Updated March 13, 2024

Kenn Dahl says he has always been a careful driver. The owner of a software company near Seattle, he drives a leased Chevrolet Bolt. He’s never been responsible for an accident.

So Mr. Dahl, 65, was surprised in 2022 when the cost of his car insurance jumped by 21 percent. Quotes from other insurance companies were also high. One insurance agent told him his LexisNexis report was a factor.

LexisNexis is a New York-based global data broker with a “Risk Solutions” division that caters to the auto insurance industry and has traditionally kept tabs on car accidents and tickets. Upon Mr. Dahl’s request, LexisNexis sent him a 258-page “ consumer disclosure report ,” which it must provide per the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

What it contained stunned him: more than 130 pages detailing each time he or his wife had driven the Bolt over the previous six months. It included the dates of 640 trips, their start and end times, the distance driven and an accounting of any speeding, hard braking or sharp accelerations. The only thing it didn’t have is where they had driven the car.

On a Thursday morning in June for example, the car had been driven 7.33 miles in 18 minutes; there had been two rapid accelerations and two incidents of hard braking.

According to the report, the trip details had been provided by General Motors — the manufacturer of the Chevy Bolt. LexisNexis analyzed that driving data to create a risk score “for insurers to use as one factor of many to create more personalized insurance coverage,” according to a LexisNexis spokesman, Dean Carney. Eight insurance companies had requested information about Mr. Dahl from LexisNexis over the previous month.

“It felt like a betrayal,” Mr. Dahl said. “They’re taking information that I didn’t realize was going to be shared and screwing with our insurance.”

The General Motors headquarters, several connected glass buildings that tower over a nearby street.

In recent years, insurance companies have offered incentives to people who install dongles in their cars or download smartphone apps that monitor their driving, including how much they drive, how fast they take corners, how hard they hit the brakes and whether they speed. But “drivers are historically reluctant to participate in these programs,” as Ford Motor put it in a patent application that describes what is happening instead: Car companies are collecting information directly from internet-connected vehicles for use by the insurance industry.

Sometimes this is happening with a driver’s awareness and consent. Car companies have established relationships with insurance companies, so that if drivers want to sign up for what’s called usage-based insurance — where rates are set based on monitoring of their driving habits — it’s easy to collect that data wirelessly from their cars.

But in other instances, something much sneakier has happened. Modern cars are internet-enabled, allowing access to services like navigation, roadside assistance and car apps that drivers can connect to their vehicles to locate them or unlock them remotely. In recent years, automakers, including G.M., Honda, Kia and Hyundai, have started offering optional features in their connected-car apps that rate people’s driving. Some drivers may not realize that, if they turn on these features, the car companies then give information about how they drive to data brokers like LexisNexis.

Automakers and data brokers that have partnered to collect detailed driving data from millions of Americans say they have drivers’ permission to do so. But the existence of these partnerships is nearly invisible to drivers, whose consent is obtained in fine print and murky privacy policies that few read.

Especially troubling is that some drivers with vehicles made by G.M. say they were tracked even when they did not turn on the feature — called OnStar Smart Driver — and that their insurance rates went up as a result.

“GM’s OnStar Smart Driver service is optional to customers,” a G.M. spokeswoman, Malorie Lucich, said. “Customer benefits include learning more about their safe driving behaviors or vehicle performance that, with their consent, may be used to obtain insurance quotes. Customers can also unenroll from Smart Driver at any time.”

Even for those who opt in, the risks are far from clear. I have a G.M. car, a Chevrolet. I went through the enrollment process for Smart Driver; there was no warning or prominent disclosure that any third party would get access to my driving data.

“I am surprised,” said Frank Pasquale, a law professor at Cornell University. “Because it’s not within the reasonable expectation of the average consumer, it should certainly be an industry practice to prominently disclose that is happening.”

Policymakers have expressed concern about the collection of sensitive information from consumers’ cars. California’s privacy regulator is currently investigating automakers’ data collection practices. Last month, Senator Edward Markey of Massachusetts also urged the Federal Trade Commission to investigate.

“The ‘internet of things’ is really intruding into the lives of all Americans,” Senator Markey said in an interview. “If there is now a collusion between automakers and insurance companies using data collected from an unknowing car owner that then raises their insurance rates, that’s, from my perspective, a potential per se violation of Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act.”

That is the federal law that prohibits unfair and deceptive business practices that harm consumers.

‘Smart Driver’

Mr. Dahl shared his experience on an online forum for Chevy Bolt enthusiasts, on a thread where other people expressed shock to find that LexisNexis had their driving data. Warnings about the tracking are scattered across online discussion boards dedicated to vehicles manufactured by G.M. — including Corvettes, a sports car designed for racking up “acceleration events.” (One driver lamented having data collected during a “track day,” while testing out the Corvette’s limits on a professional racetrack.)

Numerous people on the forums complained about spiking premiums as a result. A Cadillac driver in Palm Beach County, Fla., who asked not to be named because he is considering a lawsuit against G.M., said he was denied auto insurance by seven companies in December. When he asked an agent why, she advised him to pull his LexisNexis report. He discovered six months of his driving activity, including many instances of hard braking and hard accelerating, as well as some speeding.

“I don’t know the definition of hard brake. My passenger’s head isn’t hitting the dash,” he said. “Same with acceleration. I’m not peeling out. I’m not sure how the car defines that. I don’t feel I’m driving aggressively or dangerously.”

When he finally obtained car insurance, through a private broker, it was double what he had previously been paying.

The Cadillac owner, Mr. Dahl and the drivers on the forums had all been enrolled in OnStar Smart Driver. OnStar is G.M.’s Internet-connected service for its cars and Smart Driver is a free, gamified feature within G.M.’s connected car apps (all part of OnStar, but branded MyChevrolet, MyBuick, MyGMC and MyCadillac).

Smart Driver can “help you become a better driver,” according to a corporate website , by tracking and rating seatbelt use and driving habits. In a recent promotional campaign, an Instagram influencer used Smart Driver in a competition with her husband to find out who could collect the most digital badges, such as “brake genius” and “limit hero.”

In response to questions from The New York Times, G.M. confirmed that it shares “select insights” about hard braking, hard accelerating, speeding over 80 miles an hour and drive time of Smart Driver enrollees with LexisNexis and another data broker that works with the insurance industry called Verisk.

Customers turn on Smart Driver, said Ms. Lucich, the G.M. spokeswoman, “at the time of purchase or through their vehicle mobile app.” It is possible that G.M. drivers who insisted they didn’t opt in were unknowingly signed up at the dealership, where salespeople can receive bonuses for successful enrollment of customers in OnStar services, including Smart Driver, according to a company manual .

The Cadillac owner in Florida said he had not heard of Smart Driver and never noticed it in the MyCadillac app. He reviewed the paperwork he signed at the dealership when he bought his Cadillac in the fall of 2021 and found no mention of signing up for it.

“When a customer accepts the user terms and privacy statement (which are separately reviewed in the enrollment flow), they consent to sharing their data with third parties,” Ms. Lucich wrote in an email, pointing to OnStar’s privacy statement .

But that statement’s section on “third-party business relationships” does not mention Smart Driver. It names SiriusXM as a company G.M. might share data with, not LexisNexis Risk Solutions, which G.M. has partnered with since 2019 .

Jen Caltrider, a researcher at Mozilla who reviewed the privacy policies for more than 25 car brands last year, said that drivers have little idea about what they are consenting to when it comes to data collection. She said it is “impossible for consumers to try and understand” the legalese-filled policies for car companies, their connected services and their apps. She called cars “a privacy nightmare.”

“The car companies are really good at trying to link these features to safety and say they are all about safety,” Ms. Caltrider said. “They’re about making money.”

Neither the car companies nor the data brokers deny that they are engaged in this practice, though automakers say the main purpose of their driver feedback programs is to help people develop safer driving habits.

After LexisNexis and Verisk get data from consumers’ cars, they sell information about how people are driving to insurance companies. To access it, the insurance companies must get consent from the drivers — say, when they go out shopping for car insurance and sign off on boilerplate language that gives insurance companies the right to pull third-party reports. (Insurance companies commonly ask for access to a consumer’s credit or risk reports, though they are barred from doing so in California, Massachusetts, Michigan and Hawaii.)

An employee familiar with G.M.’s Smart Driver said the company’s annual revenue from the program is in the low millions of dollars.

LexisNexis Risk Solutions, which retains consumers’ driving data for six months, has “strict privacy and security policies designed to ensure that data is not accessed or used impermissibly,” the company said in a statement.

Verisk provides insurers with trip data and a risk score “approved by insurance regulators in 46 states and the District of Columbia,” said a spokeswoman, Amy Ebenstein. Automakers that Verisk gets data from “provide their customers notice and obtain appropriate consents,” she said.

Some drivers who had Smart Driver turned on, though, said they did not even realize they were enrolled until they saw warnings on online forums and then checked their app. They quickly unenrolled themselves by turning off Smart Driver in their car app.

Omri Ben-Shahar, a law professor at the University of Chicago, said he was in favor of usage-based insurance — where insurers monitor mileage and driving habits to determine premiums — because people who are knowingly monitored are better drivers. “People drive differently,” he said. “The impact on safety is enormous.”

But he was troubled, he said, by “stealth enrollment” in programs with “surprising and potentially injurious” data collection. There is no public safety benefit if people don’t know that how they drive will affect how much they pay for insurance.

‘Real-World Driving Behavior’

General Motors is not the only automaker sharing driving behavior. Kia, Subaru and Mitsubishi also contribute to the LexisNexis “ Telematics Exchange ,” a “portal for sharing consumer-approved connected car data with insurers.” As of 2022, the exchange, according to a LexisNexis news release , has “real-world driving behavior” collected “from over 10 million vehicles.”

Verisk also claims to have access to data from millions of vehicles and partnerships with major automakers, including Ford, Honda and Hyundai.

Two of these automakers said they were not sharing data or only limited data. Subaru shares odometer data with LexisNexis for Subaru customers who turn on Starlink and authorize that data be shared “when shopping for auto insurance,” said a spokesman, Dominick Infante.

Ford “does not transmit any connected vehicle data to either partner,” said a spokesman, Alan Hall, but partnered with them “to explore ways to support customers” who want to take part in usage-based insurance programs. Ford will share driving behavior from a car directly with an insurance company, he said, when a customer gives explicit consent via an in-vehicle touch screen.

The other automakers all have optional driver-coaching features in their apps — Kia , Mitsubishi and Hyundai have “Driving Score,” while Honda and Acura have “Driver Feedback” — that, when turned on, collect information about people’s mileage, speed, braking and acceleration that is then shared with LexisNexis or Verisk, the companies said in response to questions from The New York Times.

But that would not be evident or obvious to drivers using these features. In fact, before a Honda owner activates Driver Feedback, a screen titled “Respect for your Privacy” assures drivers that “your data will never be shared without your consent.” But it is shared — with Verisk, a fact disclosed in a more than 2,000-word “terms and conditions” screen that a driver needs to click “accept” on. (Honda does mention Verisk in an FAQ on its website and Kia highlights its relationship with LexisNexis Risk Solutions on its website . A Kia spokesman said LexisNexis can’t share driving score data of Kia participants with insurers without additional consent.)

Drivers who have realized what is happening are not happy. The Palm Beach Cadillac owner said he would never buy another car from G.M. He is planning to sell his Cadillac.

How to Find Out What Your Car Is Doing

See the data your car is capable of collecting with this tool: https://vehicleprivacyreport.com/ .

Check your connected car app, if you use one, to see if you are enrolled in one of these programs.

Do an online search for “privacy request form” alongside the name of your vehicle’s manufacturer. There should be instructions on how to request information your car company has about you.

Request your LexisNexis report: https://consumer.risk.lexisnexis.com/consumer

Request your Verisk report: https://fcra.verisk.com/#/

Find something interesting, or know more about this? Contact me at [email protected].

Susan C. Beachy contributed research.

An earlier version of this article referred imprecisely to Honda’s disclosure of its relationship with Verisk, the data broker. That relationship is described in an FAQ on Honda’s website.

How we handle corrections

Kashmir Hill writes about technology and how it is changing people’s everyday lives with a particular focus on privacy. She has been covering technology for more than a decade. More about Kashmir Hill

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We need to talk about fast travel in ‘dragon’s dogma 2’.

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Dragon's Dogma 2

At this point I cannot hold my tongue about my least favorite part in a game I am otherwise really enjoying. That would be fast travel in Dragon’s Dogma 2 , or often, the lack thereof.

Before launch, Dragon’s Dogma 2 director Hideaki Itsuno went out of his way to talk about the game’s lack of easy fast-travel , or even mechanics like horseback mounts to speed up journeys:

“It’s only an issue because your game is boring. All you have to do is make travel fun. That’s why you place things in the right location for players to discover, or come up with enemy appearance methods that create different experiences each time, or force players into blind situations where they don’t know whether it’s safe or not then meters in front of them.”

While I understand what he’s talking about in theory, in practice, the system that’s meant to set up more dynamic encounters and encourage exploration often does the exact opposite, and closing in on 20 hours with the game, I’m not finding it any better, nor do I sign on to the logic being used here.

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The game does have fast travel just…in extremely limited, convoluted ways. You can oxcart travel between major cities once you’ve discovered them, but they are few and far between and while cheap, often do not help much depending on your objective, nor do anything when you’re out in the wild.

Then, the idea is a currency system that allows you to spend a somewhat rare Ferrystone stone to fast-travel between beacons on the map, making you cautious about when you’re desperate enough to use it. As the game unfolds, you will be able to set up your own beacons around the map, but again, 15+ hours in here, I have only gotten one of those, and as I’m still exploring the map, I don’t even know where to put it. All of this serves to build something resembling a fast travel system, but one you either rarely use or costs an annoying currency to use, and I think this whole system does the opposite of what it says it’s designed to do.

This idea that you are encouraging exploration with this system is nonsense. Name any other big game in this genre, Elden Ring, Breath of the Wild, Skyrim, whatever, and you will find games that have readily available fast travel while obviously encouraging lots of exploration. Just because you can freely travel around the map once you find existing locations, that does not discourage you from exploring dark corners or new places on the map.

But I constantly find myself being discouraged in Dragon’s Dogma. I trekked all the way to a new city and was given a quest to find a missing boy endangered by some wolves. The POI for that was about a ten minute walk back exactly where I had just come from. Rather than struggle through a hundred rounds of draining stamina and recharging it and walking past chests I’d already opened, I left that kid to the wolves. This idea that “dynamic” things can happen when walking instead of fast traveling may technically be true, but the vast majority of the time it’s just fighting the same trash mobs you’ve already fought on that same path 3-4 times.

I absolutely think that Dragon’s Dogma 2 has a great map to explore, but this idea of not having normal fast travel, yet setting up a much more exhausting, annoying version of the system instead, is a huge turn-off. Not enough to get me to put down the game, but I find myself investing in a lot fewer quests and returning to fewer areas to explore given travel time or cost alone. Oxcarts only get you so far and Ferrystones remind me of the awful Fallout 76 mechanic which charged you money to fast travel on the map. This is all annoying for its own sake, and actively discourages exploration rather than encouraging it. No, this is not a “microtransaction ploy” as the game (stupidly) sells just a single fast travel point, which is nothing, but it’s one of those “well this is the way it’s always been” things that does not work when under a microscope. I can’t get on board, and I don’t seen that changing in another 20, 40, 60 hours, half of those being spent recharging my stamina meter,

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A woman living her dream said her life became a nightmare overnight.

An American travel influencer said that ever since posting about living a happy, childfree life at age 37 last fall, she’s been hounded by internet trolls and cyberbullies — mostly male — who spew vitriol at her.

However, after writing a piece for Today.com detailing her harrowing experience, Emily Hart, now 38, has realized she isn’t alone in her struggle to live life to the fullest without being attacked for it.

“The response to the essay has been really lovely and overwhelmingly positive with many women reaching out who can relate,” she told The Post

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Emily Hart 💜 | solo travel (@emilyventures)

Hart, who goes by emilyventures on Instagram, first posted a reel of herself in all the beautiful travel destinations she’s visited, along with the title: “Age 37: Never married. No Kids.”

It has been viewed more than 16 million times.

Since then, though, she’s gotten bombarded with hateful comments.

One she shared in her essay reads: “No kids, not married, and 37, just a big child with no responsibility and never done anything useful, pathetic cow.”

She wrote that “hundreds of commenters per hour” told her she was “pathetic” and speculated that feminism “deluded me into believing I was happy.”

Hart noted that many of the commenters were men who had pictures of their children in their profile photos. Some women messaged her, too — “many with Bible verses and ‘kindness’ in their bios, telling me every variation of ‘you will die alone’ and ‘no one wants you anyway’ that they could muster,” she added.

According to her rant, she suspects her post went viral among the “tradwife,” side of the internet, in which content creators glorify staying at home and adhering to traditional gender roles.

She said since writing her essay, other women shared their support for her and said they had similar experiences.

The influencer of more than a decade said that in the first week after making her post, she doesn’t think she slept for over 30 minutes at a time.

She later fell into a depression and suffered from “digestive problems, low energy, panic attacks, angry outbursts, and my skin started breaking out,” she wrote.

As a seasoned influencer, she was used to handling a few nasty comments and she would just block a hater or delete a crass comment — and then move on with her life.

Hart said that social media went from being a happy place to a scary place.

Unfortunately, the hateful words seemingly came in faster than she was able to delete them. Sharing her life online had once filled her with so much confidence, but the opposite was happening now.

” ‘It’s not normal to have this much negativity thrown at you,’ I tried to explain to friends, but the truth is not many people have ever or will ever experience anything like this,” she penned.

“There is no road map or DSM diagnosis for going viral, but as I now know from my experience, it can be life-altering,” she added.

She felt pressured to write follow-up posts explaining that she didn’t necessarily want to avoid marriage or having kids forever — but it was where she was in her life at the moment, and it wasn’t going to stop her from enjoying herself.

The way she views social media has changed since negative comments piled up.

She's sharing her story in the hopes it will spread awareness about cyberbullying.

“For months after the post, I was on edge whenever I opened Instagram,” she wrote in her essay. “The app that makes up a large percentage of my livelihood had become something I feared.”

Hart, a solo traveler who claims she has visited all 50 states and almost every national park, is sharing her hardships along with her travels to spread awareness about cyberbullying.

“I want to use my experiences to clear the field for others, and I believe vulnerability and honesty are how to do it,” she said.

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On the Go and Online: 10 Tips to Access and Use the Internet While

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На сколько подорожает домашний Интернет?
Trip
интернет трип
Интернет-зависимость, и как с ней не бороться

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7 Easy Ways to Get Internet For Travel (Stay Connected Abroad)
3. Connect to Public WiFi Networks. Connecting to public WiFi networks is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to access the internet while traveling. Today, you'll find public WiFi networks in built-up areas in virtually every corner of the world; from trendy cafes in Melbourne to train stations in India.
How to Get Fast, Reliable Wi-Fi When Traveling (2024 )
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).
How to get internet while traveling
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
8 Best Ways to Get Internet for Travel
After reading through the options, you'll be able to make the best choice for your trip! In a nutshell, these are the 8 best ways to get Internet for travelers: Local SIM card. Holafly eSIM card. International SIM card. Unlocked portable router.
How to Get High-Speed Wi-Fi While Traveling
A hotspot—whether it's the one on your phone or a separate mobile device—is the easiest and quickest tool you can use to get Wi-Fi while traveling. As long as you have a data plan and network coverage where you're traveling, all you need to do is switch on the Wi-Fi hotspot to provide internet access for multiple laptops, tablets, and ...
The 6 Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots of 2024
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 ...
6 best portable Wi-Fi hotspots for travelers in 2023
T-Mobile Inseego MiFi M2000 5G and 4G LTE Hot Spot. Amazon. With 5G and 4G LTE connectivity and the ability to connect a whopping 30 devices with Wi-Fi 6 technology, this is an affordable hot spot ...
How To Get Internet While Traveling
For long-term travel, you may want the ability to get online without going to a public Wi-Fi hotspot. Even for some short-term trips, you may feel more comfortable if you can get an internet connection at any time. Getting a SIM card is one popular solution. SIM cards give you mobile internet access without international data roaming charges.
How to Connect to the Internet Abroad in 2024
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.
How to Get High-Speed Internet While Traveling
The Future of Travel Internet: Emerging Technologies. As we look to the horizon, the future of travel internet is as bright as the glow of a lightsaber in a dark room. Emerging technologies promise to make connectivity issues a thing of the past, like floppy disks and dial-up tones.
How To Get Portable Wi-Fi for Traveling
This Starlink package gets you unlimited mobile global data inland, plus your choice of 50GB, 1TB, or 5TB of Mobile Priority data with faster speeds. Prices range from $250-$5,000 per month. It's pretty easy to decide on a plan. If you need either in-motion or global capability (or both), get the respective plan.
How to Get Internet While Traveling On the Road
IMO, hotspots are the way to go! The Verizon Jetpack with unlimited data changed our lives. We weren't getting crazy fast speeds like we would with cable or DSL, but for the most part, we were getting at least 15 Mbps. This is still a pricey option, but if your livelihood is dependent on it, it's the best option.
Internet In Japan For Tourists: Wifi, Pocket Wifi, SIM Cards, Rental
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.
How to Get Wi-Fi Wherever You Go
Go to Settings, then look for a menu for networks or connections. On Samsung devices, for example, you'll need to navigate to "Connections," then "Mobile Hotspot and Tethering.". On Google Pixels, you must go to "Network & Internet," then "Hotspot & Tethering.". After turning the hotspot on, you'll be given a Wi-Fi password.
How to Get Wi-Fi on the Road
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 ...
Internet to travel the world
Holafly plans and rates to have the internet to travel. Holafly prices vary depending on the destination and the duration of your trip. For example, if you travel to the United States, you can choose a data eSIM for 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, and 90 days from $19.00 USD to $99.00. You can even choose the same days at some destinations and enjoy ...
The Best Van Life Internet Options of 2024 (Cellular and Starlink)
Here are a few mobile hotspot devices you can try for van life internet: TravelFi: TravelFi is a new third-party cellular data service provider which offers a "pay-as-you-go" plan. You must purchase an LTE hotspot which runs around $229, then you decide on a monthly plan depending on how many gigs you'll use.
Best Portable Internet Providers of 2024
The Best Portable Internet Plans in 2024. While many mobile carriers offer mobile hotspots, the Big 3—Verizon Wireless, AT&T Wireless, and T-Mobile—gives the best coverage options in the U.S. Of the 51 mobile broadband providers, we believe the Big 3 are worthy of your attention. Mobile provider.
Internet and Cable TV in Moscow
Wireless internet connection is free at most cafes and restaurants in Moscow, but some greedy places charge you about $10 per hour . It can be purchased online on the spot or at the counter (special pre-paid cards). Free WiFi Internet Access Points in Moscow: American Bar & Grill: American-style restaurant chain, average bill: $20 per person.
Unlimited wirelless internet in Moscow
Hi, Moscow experts! What is the best solution for someone who is arriving from US to Moscow for a week and wants to have unlimited internet on his unlocked smartphone which is working perfect in States. What company, where to buy (arriving to SVO...
How Has The Internet Affected The Travel And Tourism Industry
The internet has had a tremendous impact on the travel and tourism industry, transforming it in profound ways. It has revolutionized the way people plan their trips, book accommodations, and share their travel experiences. Let's explore some of the key impacts of the internet on this industry: 1.
Internet Cafe in Port for Viking river Cruise
The internet in Russia is much more costly than here in the USA. Most people who have the net at home (in Russia) use a card, (just like our phone cards with set time limits on them). There really is no such thing as an unlimited $9.95 per month JUNO in Russia.
Best Thailand eSIM Guide from $5.98, 5G data eSIM
Install the eSIM upon arrival in Thailand to start the validity period. Data Capacity & Speed. 30GB at high speed, then reduced to 384kbps. Promotion: Dial 777 7664# in Thailand for an extra 20GB, totalling 50GB over 10 days. Calls & Credit. Unlimited calls within AIS network + Free 100 Baht Credit.
Great free internet in lovely outdoor...
Anderson: Great free internet in lovely outdoor seating cafe - See 284 traveler reviews, 146 candid photos, and great deals for Moscow, Russia, at Tripadvisor.
Africa Internet Outage Sends Traffic on Winding Trip Around the World
March 20, 2024 at 1:28 AM PDT. Listen. 3:55. Internet service providers serving Africa have been forced to send their traffic via elaborate detours following damage to four major subsea cables off ...
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March 25, 2024 7:14 PM. President Joe Biden acknowledges the crowd after speaking Thursday, Jan. 18, 2023 at the Abbotts Creek Community Center in Raleigh. Biden announced plans to invest $82 ...
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Residents of its small, rural towns often have to travel to a larger community or out of the region altogether. Few providers come north. And there are gaps in internet service so online help may ...
Automakers Are Sharing Consumers' Driving Behavior With Insurance
LexisNexis, which generates consumer risk profiles for the insurers, knew about every trip G.M. drivers had taken in their cars, including when they sped, braked too hard or accelerated rapidly.
We Need To Talk About Fast Travel In 'Dragon's Dogma 2'
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