In today’s digitized world, it’s more important than ever to stay connected while on the go. Whether you’re a business traveler or a leisure traveler, a travel router can be a lifesaver by giving you a reliable and secure way to connect to the internet.
A travel router is a great way to keep your devices connected when you’re on the go. It allows you to connect multiple devices to one network, so you can stay connected even if you’re in a different country. Plus, it’s small and portable, so you can easily take it with you wherever you go.
But with so many travel routers on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. After reviewing dozens of travel routers, here are our top picks:
- Best Overall: TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Travel Router
- Best Security: GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel Router
- Best Range: TP-LINK TL-WR802N Wireless Nano Router
- Best Budget: GL.iNet GL-AR150 Mini Travel Router
- Best Battery Life: TP-Link TL-WR902AC Wireless Portable Nano Router
Best Overall: TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Travel Router
- Small and light to carry around
- Strong, fast Wi-Fi connection for HD streaming
- Create Dual-band Wi-Fi on the go
- Micro USB port for file sharing/charging
- Supports multiple Wi-Fi modes (extender, client, bridge access point)
©History-Computer.com
©History-Computer.com
©History-Computer.com
The TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Travel Router is a powerful and feature-rich AC750 travel router that is ideal for use on the go. It has two fixed internal antennas and offers dual-band wireless AC with speeds of up to 433Mbps on the 5GHz band and 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, as well as one Ethernet port for wired connections.
One of the best features of the router is its portability. It is small enough to fit in your pocket and comes with a built-in battery. The router also has a USB port that can be used to share files and charge other devices, such as your smartphone or tablet.
In terms of security, the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Travel Router features WPA/WPA2 encryption, as well as an integrated firewall to protect your network from malicious attacks. It also has an application layer gateway and access control. Overall, this router is a great choice for those who need a high-performance and feature-rich travel router.
Check out the TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Travel Router on Amazon.
Best for Security: GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel Router
- 【Newer Model of AR750S】 GL.iNet GL-A1300 (Slate Plus) Wireless VPN Encrypted Travel Router– Easy to Setup, Connect to Hotel WiFi & Captive Portal, Phone Tethering, Range Extender, Assess Point,...
- 【DUAL BAND AC WIRELESS ROUTER】 Simultaneous dual band with wireless speed 300Mbps(2.4G)+433Mbps(5G). Tethering Compatible.Convert public network(wired/wireless) to a private Wi-Fi for secure...
- 【OPEN SOURCE & PROGRAMMABLE】 OpenWrt/LEDE pre-installed, backed by software repository.
- 【VPN CLIENT & SERVER】 OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers.
- 【LARGER STORAGE & EXTENSIBILITY】 128MB RAM, 16MB NOR Flash and 128MB NAND Flash, up to 128GB MicroSD slot, USB 2.0 port, three Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 WAN and 2 LAN).
The GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel Router is a powerful and versatile travel router that can be used to create a secure and private network wherever you go. This router is equipped with three Gigabit ports, an 802.11ac Wi-Fi connection, and two external antennas for maximum performance. The GL-AR750S-Ext also features a built-in VPN server and client for added security, as well as an integrated access point mode for creating your own personal Wi-Fi hotspot.
The GL-AR750S-Ext comes with a number of advanced security features, including VPN support and encryption. It also has OpenWrt pre-installed. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to keep their data safe and secure while they’re traveling.
This router is equipped with a dual-core processor that helps deliver speeds of up to 1,000Mbps. It also features 128MB DDR2 SD RAM and 128MB of NAND flash memory, which gives it the ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously without experiencing any lag.
This router is easy to set up and use, and it comes with a comprehensive user manual to help you get the most out of your router.
Check out the GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Gigabit Travel Router on Amazon. (Please note that as of July 17th, 2023, this product is currently unavailable on Amazon. Please check back later.)
Best Range: TP-LINK TL-WR802N Wireless Nano Router
- 300Mbps
- 802.11a wireless communication standard
- 2.4 GHz frequency band
- 6 ports
The TP-LINK TL-WR802N Wireless Nano Router is an ideal travel companion for those who need to stay connected while on the go. This pocket-sized router has two fixed antennas and provides up to 300Mbps of wireless speed.
It also features a built-in Ethernet port for wired connections. The TL-WR802N supports multiple operating modes, including Client, Router, Access Point, Range Extender, and Hotspot mode. In Access Point mode, it can create a wireless network for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. In Repeater mode, it can extend the range of an existing wireless network. And in hotspot mode, it can connect to a broadband internet connection via a wireless ISP (WISP).
Check out the TP-LINK TL-WR802N Wireless Nano Router on Amazon.
Best on a Budget: GL.iNet GL-AR150 Mini Travel Router
- 【WIRELESS MOBILE MINI TRAVEL ROUTER】 Convert a public network (wired/wireless) to a private Wi-Fi for secure surfing. Create a secure Wi-Fi hotspot quickly. Tethering, 3G/4G USB Modem Compatible....
- 【OPEN SOURCE & PROGRAMMABLE】 OpenWrt/LEDE pre-installed, backed by software repository. DDWrt supported. USB disk extendable.
- 【VPN CLIENT & SERVER】 OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers.
- 【LARGER STORAGE & EXTENSIBILITY】 64MB RAM, 16MB Flash ROM, dual Ethernet ports, UART and 2.54mm standard GPIOs available for hardware DIY.
- 【PACKAGE CONTENTS】 GL-AR150 (White) mini router (1-year Warranty), USB cable, Ethernet cable, User Manual.
The GL.iNet GL-AR150 Mini Travel Router is a mini travel router that offers a variety of features and specifications to users for an affordable price. It is powered by an Atheros AR9331 chipset and has 64 MB of RAM and 16 MB of flash memory. The device supports 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi and can operate in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. It also has two Ethernet ports, one for WAN and one for LAN, and supports up to 150 Mbps data transfer rates. The GL-AR150 also features a built-in USB 2.0 port which can be used to connect an external storage device or printer.
The router supports 802.11n Wi-Fi and can be used as a repeater or access point. It also has a built-in Ethernet port, so you can connect it to a wired network if needed. The GL-AR150 also comes with a microSD card slot, so you can use it as a storage device or for sharing files between devices on your network.
The GL-AR150 also comes with a built-in battery, so you can use it even when there’s no power outlet available. The router’s performance is impressive for its price range. It offers speeds of up to 150Mbps, which is more than enough for most internet activities like browsing the web and checking email. The router also supports multiple devices simultaneously, so you can easily connect all your devices to the internet while on the go.
In terms of value, the GL-AR150 is hard to beat. It’s one of the most affordable travel routers on the market, yet it doesn’t sacrifice features or performance. If you’re looking for a great travel router that won’t break the bank, the GL-AR150 is a perfect choice.
Check out the GL.iNet GL-AR150 Mini Travel Router on Amazon. (Please note that as of July 17th, 2023, this product is unavailable on Amazon. Please check back later.)
Best Battery Life: TP-Link TL-WR902AC Wireless Portable Nano Router
- Small and light to carry around
- Strong, fast Wi-Fi connection for HD streaming
- Create Dual-band Wi-Fi on the go
- Micro USB port for file sharing/charging
- Supports multiple Wi-Fi modes (extender, client, bridge access point)
The TP-Link TL-WR902AC Wireless Portable Nano Router is a travel router that is specifically designed for use on the go with its excellent battery life. It is a highly compact and lightweight router that can easily be carried in a purse or backpack. The TL-WR902AC provides both 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless connectivity, as well as wired Ethernet connectivity.
It also includes a built-in battery which allows it to be used as a standalone device, or it can be plugged into an AC outlet for continuous operation. This router can operate for up to 12 hours on a single charge, so you can keep your devices connected even when there’s no outlet available.
The TL-WR902AC supports multiple wireless modes, including Access Point mode, Client mode, Repeater mode, and Router mode. In Access Point mode, the TL-WR902AC can be used to create a wireless network in locations where there is no existing network infrastructure.
When set to Client mode, the TL-WR902AC can be connected to an existing wireless network in order to extend its range. In Repeater mode, the router can be used to boost the signal of an existing wireless network. And finally, in Router mode, the TL-WR902AC functions as a traditional wireless router.
The TL-WR902AC also includes several advanced features such as guest networks, parental controls, VPN server support, and more. These features make the TL-WR902AC an ideal travel router for those who need to stay connected while on the go.
Check out the TP-Link TL-WR902AC Wireless Portable Nano Router on Amazon.
How to Pick the Best Travel Router
When you’re trying to decide on the best travel router for your needs, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
Portability
When you’re looking for a travel router, one of the most important factors to consider is portability. You want a router that’s small and light enough to easily carry with you on your travels. However, you also want one that’s powerful enough to handle all your devices and keep you connected while you’re on the go. The best travel routers strike a balance between these two factors, offering both portability and performance.
Battery Life
When you’re looking for the best travel router, one of the most important factors to consider is battery life. After all, if your router dies while you’re on the go, you’ll be left without a way to connect to the internet.
Most travel routers will have some sort of built-in battery, but the size and capacity of these batteries can vary greatly. Some routers may only have enough juice to last for a few hours of use, while others can last for days.
If you know you’ll be using your router for extended periods of time, it’s worth investing in a model with a larger battery. However, if you only need your router for occasional use, a smaller battery may be sufficient.
Here are some things to keep in mind concerning the battery life of travel routers:
- Make sure to check the manufacturer’s claimed battery life. This will give you a good idea of how long the router can last on a single charge.
- Keep in mind that real-world battery life will vary depending on how you use the router. If you’re constantly streaming video or using other high-bandwidth applications, your battery life will be lower than if you’re just using the router for basic web browsing and email.
- Remember that you can always pack an extra power bank or batteries just in case. It’s better to have too much power than not enough!
Wi-Fi Standard and Band
When you’re looking for a travel router, one of the things you’ll want to consider is the WiFi standard and band. The most common standards are 802.11ax, 802.11ac, and 802.11n, with 802.11ax being the fastest. If you have devices that only support 802.11n, then you’ll want to make sure your router supports that as well. In terms of bands, most routers will use either 2.4GHz or 5GHz. The latter is typically faster, but not all devices support it. So if you have older devices that only work on 2.4GHz, you’ll need to make sure your router supports 2.4GHz. In general, dual-band routers are the best option since they offer the most flexibility.
Speed
When you’re looking for a travel router, one of the most important things to consider is speed. You’ll want to make sure that the router can handle fast speeds so that you can enjoy a smooth and reliable experience when you’re using it on the go. There are a few things to look for when you’re assessing a router’s speed capabilities.
First, check the maximum speed that the router can handle. This should be listed in the specs. Next, take a look at reviews from other users to see how they’ve found the router’s performance in terms of speed. With these factors in mind, you can be sure to choose a travel router that will meet your needs and help you stay connected while you’re on the go.
Ease of Use
When it comes to choosing a travel router, ease of use is an important factor to consider. You want a router that is easy to set up and use, so you can focus on enjoying your trip instead of struggling with technology. There are a few things to look for when assessing the ease of use of a travel router.
First, check to see if the router comes with clear instructions. Many routers come with confusing manuals that can make set-up more difficult than it needs to be.
Second, look for a router that offers pre-configured settings for travel. This can make it easier to get online in new places, as you won’t have to fiddle with complex configurations.
Finally, make sure the router you choose has good customer support in case you run into any problems. A helpful customer service team can be invaluable when trying to get a tricky piece of technology working properly.
Price
Travel routers vary in price depending on the features they offer and the size of their network. However, you can typically expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a quality travel router. When you are looking for a travel router, you want to find one that is affordable and has all the features that you need.
For example, if you need a router that can handle multiple devices and offers fast speeds, you’ll likely have to pay more than someone who just needs a basic router for a single device.
Also, keep in mind that some travel routers come with additional features that may be worth paying extra for, such as a built-in battery or USB port.
Features
There are a few factors to consider before purchasing a travel router, and one of them is advanced features. Some routers have more advanced features than others, and this can be a deciding factor for some consumers. For example, some routers have the ability to automatically select the best channels for performance while others do not. Additionally, some routers come with parental controls while others do not. There are also those that come with advanced security features like VPN support and Guest Networks. If you need those features, make sure to check if the router you’re looking at has them.
Processing Power
When considering which travel router to buy, processing power is one of the key factors to consider. A travel router with more processing power will be able to handle more devices and traffic, giving you a better experience when using it on the go. If you are planning on using your travel router for heavy-duty tasks or for a large number of devices, then you should definitely consider one with a powerful processor.
Compatibility
When it comes to choosing a travel router, compatibility is one of the key factors to consider. After all, you’ll want to make sure that the router is compatible with the devices you’ll be using it with. Otherwise, you may find yourself unable to connect to the internet or experience other issues.
There are a few things to keep in mind when checking for compatibility. First, check what types of devices the router is compatible with. Most routers will work with laptops, smartphones, and tablets. However, some may not be compatible with certain types of devices, such as gaming consoles.
Additionally, some routers only work with certain types of internet connections, so be sure to check that as well. If you’re only ever going to be using public Wi-Fi hotspots, then pretty much any router will do.
But if you’re planning on using a hotel’s wired Ethernet connection or something similar, then you’ll need a router that has an Ethernet port (most do, but it is still a good idea to check and be sure).
So, before making your purchase, it’s important to check that the router you’re interested in is compatible with the devices you’ll be using it with. Otherwise, you might end up being unable to use your router when you need it most.
Number of Supported Devices
If you’re looking for a travel router, one of the factors you’ll want to consider is how many devices it can support. Some routers can only handle a few devices at a time, while others can accommodate dozens. It all depends on your needs.
If you have a large family or group of friends who will all be using the same router, then you’ll need one that can support a lot of devices. On the other hand, if you’re traveling solo or with just a few friends, then you won’t need as much capacity.
Some travel routers even have the ability to create separate networks for different groups of people. This can be handy if you want to keep your work and personal devices separate, for example. So when you’re shopping for a travel router, think about how many devices you’ll need to connect and choose accordingly.
Online Reviews
Online reviews can help you narrow down your choices and find the best travel router for your needs.
When reading online reviews, pay attention to both positive and negative reviews. Look for common themes in the reviews and see if there are any red flags that come up repeatedly. If there are mostly positive reviews, it’s likely a good option. However, if there are mostly negative reviews, you may want to look elsewhere.
Once you’ve read a few online reviews, you should have a good idea of which travel routers are worth considering.
What to Know Before Buying a Travel Router
A travel router is a small, portable router that allows you to connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously. Most travel routers also come with built-in security features, making them ideal for use in public places like coffee shops or airports. Before purchasing a travel router, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, consider the number of devices you’ll need to connect. A good rule of thumb is to choose a router that supports at least twice as many devices as you’ll be using at any given time.
Next, think about the type of surfing you need it for. If you’ll only connect to the router to check emails and your social media accounts, then any travel router will likely suffice. However, if you plan on streaming video or working with large files, then you’ll need a router that supports higher speeds.
Also, take into account the security features that are important to you. Some travel routers come with advanced security features like VPN support or firewalls, while others offer more basic protection. Choose the router that offers the level of security you’re comfortable with.
Finally, remember that while a travel router can be an extremely helpful tool, it’s not foolproof. If you’re relying on a travel router for business purposes, it’s always best to have a backup plan in case of any technical difficulties.
Using a Travel Router: What It’s Like
Like any other router, a travel router is designed to create a Wi-Fi network in your home or office. But what sets a travel router apart is its portability and rugged design. A travel router is small enough to fit in your pocket, making it the perfect choice for taking on vacations or business trips. And because it’s designed for use in harsh environments, you don’t have to worry about breaking it if you drop it.
A travel router typically allows you to connect multiple devices at once. This is perfect for hotel rooms where there may only be one Ethernet port available. And if you’re traveling with others, they can connect their devices to your Wi-Fi network as well.
Another feature that sets a travel router apart is its ability to create a secure Wi-Fi network. This is important if you’re traveling with sensitive data or working on confidential projects. With a secure Wi-Fi network, you can rest assured that your data will stay safe and secure.
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable Wi-Fi solution, then a travel router is a perfect choice. Its small size and rugged design make it ideal for taking on the go, and its security features give you peace of mind when working with sensitive data.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©MMXeon/Shutterstock.com.
