Travel Wifi: How Does It Work?

Whether you're travelling for business or pleasure, staying connected is essential. While some people may be happy to go off-grid, most travellers want to stay in touch with loved ones and colleagues, and need to access maps, emails and other information. The good news is that there are several ways to get online when you're on the move. You can use public Wi-Fi, or carry your own Wi-Fi in your pocket with a mobile hotspot device. These are battery-powered wireless routers that emit a Wi-Fi signal, allowing you to connect your phone, tablet or laptop to the internet. You can either rent or buy one of these devices, and they are particularly useful if you're travelling with children, as they allow you to connect multiple devices at the same time.

Travel routers

A travel router is a compact, portable Wi-Fi router that works in the same way as the one you have at home. It allows you to connect and manage multiple devices on public Wi-Fi networks, such as in hotels, airports, or anywhere else. It simplifies the process by keeping your devices connected to the travel router, which then connects to the local network. This has the added benefit of keeping your devices hidden from the local network, providing some extra security.

When choosing a travel router, it's important to consider factors such as size, weight, and power source. You'll want something small and lightweight that can easily fit into your bag or even your pocket. Most travel routers require an external power source, but some can be powered via a USB port, which is more convenient when travelling.

In terms of specific models, there are several options available on the market. The GL.iNet range of travel routers, including the GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) and the GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX), are popular choices due to their compact size and VPN capabilities. The Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro is another powerful option with excellent performance and a long-lasting battery. For those on a budget, the TP-Link N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router offers good value.

Wi-Fi hotspots

There are a few things to consider when choosing a Wi-Fi hotspot. Firstly, you'll want to make sure it's small and portable so you can take it everywhere with you. Secondly, check the battery life – you'll want something that will last all day, especially if you're travelling somewhere without easy access to electricity. Thirdly, look at the display. At a minimum, this should show the remaining battery life and Wi-Fi signal strength, but some models offer additional features such as SMS messages and touch screens.

Another thing to think about is the frequency band that the hotspot uses. 2.4GHz gives coverage over a more extended range but transmits data more slowly, whereas a 5GHz band will provide less range but with faster data transmission. You should also check whether the hotspot has any additional features you may find useful, such as the ability to read MicroSD memory cards or to function as a power bank to charge your other devices.

When it comes to using your hotspot, you'll need to combine it with a data plan. You can buy an unlocked or no-contract hotspot and then choose your service provider, or buy the hotspot with a specific service provider plan included. There are also different types of data plans available, such as packages or day passes that offer unlimited access for a set period.

Mobile data plans

• Battery life: Most mobile hotspots have a battery life of 5-6 hours, but if you plan to be somewhere without easy access to electricity, consider a device with a longer battery life.
• Portability: A good mobile hotspot should be small and lightweight enough to carry everywhere you go.
• Coverage: The coverage you receive will depend on the mobile internet provider and the frequency band they use. For example, 2.4GHz offers a wider range but slower data transmission speeds, while 5GHz provides faster speeds but over a shorter range.
• Display: A built-in display is useful for monitoring battery life and Wi-Fi signal strength. Some devices also offer additional features such as SMS messaging and touch screen modes.
• Memory card support: Some mobile hotspots can read MicroSD memory cards, allowing you to store and access files from your laptop or home computer and share them with other users on your network.
• Frequency: Mobile data is delivered using one of two types of cellular signals: GSM or CDMA. GSM is used in most countries and requires a SIM card, while CDMA is used in countries including Russia and the US (Sprint, Verizon, and US Cellular) and does not require a SIM card.
• T-Mobile: T-Mobile offers a range of unlimited data plans with no annual contracts, including the Essentials Saver plan for a single line ($50/month) and the Magenta plan for two lines ($120/month). Taxes and fees are included in the price.
• AT&T: AT&T's Value Plus VL Plan offers unlimited talk, text, and data with 5G access for $51/month.
• Verizon: Verizon's Unlimited Welcome plan offers unlimited talk, text, and data for $120/month for four lines.

Local SIM cards

A local prepaid SIM card is often a cheaper option than an international SIM card, and it can be bought on arrival at the airport or in phone stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores. However, it's worth noting that buying a SIM card at the airport is usually more expensive than buying one in a store.

Local prepaid SIM cards are also a good option for those who want to have a local phone number and make calls or send texts. They are also useful for those who want to stay connected in one place, rather than needing constant connection while on the move.

However, there are some downsides to using a local SIM card. Your phone will need to be unlocked to use a different SIM card, and some smartphones cannot be unlocked until they are 12 months old. Additionally, you will need to ensure your device is compatible with local network specifications (3G or 4G).

Another disadvantage is that you will need to keep your device charged, and you may need to frequently search for places to charge it. This can be inconvenient, especially if you are on the move.

Overall, a local SIM card can be a good option for travellers who want a local phone number, make calls or send texts, or stay connected in one place. However, there are some disadvantages to consider, such as needing an unlocked device and frequent charging.

Satellite internet

Here's how it works: your internet service provider sends an internet signal to a satellite in space, which then sends the signal back down to Earth, where it is captured by your satellite dish. This dish is connected to your modem, which connects your computer to the internet. The process then reverses, sending your data back to your ISP.

The primary components of satellite internet are:

• A satellite in geostationary orbit
• Ground stations that act as gateways to relay data to and from the satellite
• A dish antenna with a transceiver at the user's premises

Frequently asked questions