The Best Wireless Internet For Travel
Key Takeaways:
- Coverage, speed, and security are very important factors to consider when you are choosing a provider.
- Device compatibility and cost structures can vary widely. Make sure to choose one that matches your needs and travel habits.
- Options to choose from can include portable hotspots, eSIMs, mobile routers, and satellite internet.
- Unlimited LTE Advanced offers real-world, travel-ready, plug-and-play internet.
If you didn’t post it, did it really happen? Questions just like that exist today because of wireless internet. For those who travel, being online makes life easy. It also lets travelers stay connected to their homes and work while coordinating all aspects of their journeys, no matter where they are in the world. It’s not always for posting selfies; it can also mean getting help in an emergency or finding a last-minute place to stay.
However, mobile internet for travel isn’t always reliable, since there are many available solutions, many factors to consider, and each provider has different offerings. If you need to know how to get internet while traveling, you’ll need to consider things like cost, speed, coverage, and more, so that you can enjoy a seamless experience. Doing your homework on wireless internet for travel will help you determine the best option for you.
Let’s begin with things you should look for when choosing an internet solution or provider for your travel.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Wireless Internet for Travel
If you have ever had reliability issues with wireless internet networks, it is almost always due to one or more of these six factors. So, keep them in mind when choosing your travel internet options.
Coverage
If you are going to be frequently on the move, whether between cities or across borders, you need a wide-ranging network access. Not every provider offers that.
Providers that offer “wide coverage” should include domestic coverage that extends beyond urban centres to include highways, national parks, rural towns, and other less populated areas.
If you are travelling internationally, check your provider’s wireless internet roaming terms, network partnerships, and supported countries.
Sometimes, providers of mobile internet for travel might advertise broad coverage, but frequent drops in signal quality in less-populated areas could render it unreliable. Use tools like coverage maps, user forums, and sites like OpenSignal to see if you’ll have internet where and when you’ll need it.
Speed and Latency
Speed and latency will determine your ability to do things like stream videos or upload media while traveling.
5G promises extremely fast speeds and very low latency, which is good, but it is still limited in many regions. Most travelers will use 4G/LTE wireless internet for travel, but it’s most important to find the solution that gives you fast speeds and low latency.
Security
Security should be another of your top priorities if you’re connecting to the internet while travelling. Virtual Private Networks keep your data safe and can help you avoid security breaches, travel delays, and major headaches. VPNs are your friend: look for internet solutions that are compatible with VPNs.
There are also Private Access Point Names (APNs) that can give you added privacy by segmenting your mobile data traffic away from public routes.
Finally, devices or hotspots that support WPA3 encryption are also a great wireless internet for travel option since they provide the latest security standards for wireless connections.
Device Compatibility
While many travelers are satisfied with smartphone tethering, some travelers will need reliable connections for laptops, tablets, and multiple other smart devices.
Consider having solutions like SIM cards that support multi-device connections and that are compatible with a range of operating systems.
Cost Structure
There are so many mobile internet plans for travel available today. There’s no shortage of options, like monthly subscriptions and unlimited data tiers. What works best for you will depend on your travel habits and data usage.
Wireless Internet for Travel Options
Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots (MiFi Devices)
These are the most common options for travelers who need reliable internet on multiple devices. The challenge with MiFis is that their effectiveness heavily depends on regional carrier partnerships and network bands. A device that works well in the U.S might struggle in Asia unless it supports multiple international frequencies.
eSIM (Virtual SIM) Technology
Rather than physically swapping out SIM cards, another wireless internet for travel option is one where you digitally download and activate a data plan directly to your compatible device. This is eSIM technology. If you don’t want to juggle multiple physical SIM cards or wait in line at local stores upon arrival, this is for you.
Many global providers with mobile internet for travel plans now offer region-specific or worldwide data bundles via eSIM marketplaces.
Mobile Routers
These are great options for people who live part-time on the road or in RVs. These are larger and powerful devices that provide good wireless internet for travel.
Many of them can switch between multiple SIMs, support external antennas, and offer advanced network controls like firewalls and VPN integrations.
Satellite Internet
If you’ll be sailing or heading off for extremely remote adventures, satellite internet might be your only solution because it works nearly anywhere that has a clear view of the sky.
International Data Roaming
This is a good option for minimalist travelers going on short trips and only needing occasional access for light internet usage, like messages and email.
Most major carriers offer global roaming plans that let you use your existing phone number and data plan abroad, for a fee.
Wireless Internet for Travel You Can Trust
While many providers promise nationwide coverage, Unlimited LTE Advanced focuses on delivering real-world performance using virtual SIM technology that taps into the strongest signal available based on your exact location. There’s no guesswork, and no carrier-hopping needed with our plug-and-play solutions.
If you need help figuring out what works best for your area or future destinations, our U.S.-based team is available by phone or live chat. You’ll get a free consultation, expert advice, and fast shipping. Get more info so that we can get started.
