In this modern world, staying connected to the internet, even when you are on the go is an essential part of life.

The best travel routers can enable you to connect several devices while providing you with a secure, fast, and reliable internet connection anytime you’re on the move. Pair it with a Cat 8 Ethernet cable, and you have one fast travel setup.

They perform like other home Wi-Fi routers, only that they are compact for portability. However, buying a travel router can be a daunting task since there are many distinct features to consider such as wireless frequencies, size, bandwidth, speed, and security protocols.

Here are the best travel routers available today.

Reliable and aesthetically pleasing, the Netgear Nighthawk MR1100-100NAS is an excellent pick if you’re always on the move. It achieves a blazing-fast download speed of up to 1Gbps, enabling you to hold uninterrupted video calls and play games without experiencing buffering. Speed isn’t the only standout feature in this router, so something else you’ll love is its long battery life.

The 5,040mAh battery can power you for a whopping 24 hours when browsing from one device, so you don’t need to carry charging cables when traveling for a quick business meeting. The router delivers a safe and speedy internet connection to 20 devices, so family members on vacation can browse and chat online effortlessly.

Instead of featuring the typical rectangular shape in most routers, Netgear Nighthawk MR1100-100NAS goes for a cube-like look with rounded edges. It blends well with the surrounding, plus there’s a 2.4-inch screen for viewing essential information. You can check the total amount of data used, signal levels, and more.

Key Features
  • Qualcomm MDM9x50 chipset
  • Requires a nano SIM card
  • Comes with one Gigabyte ethernet port
  • 2.4-inch LCD screen
Specifications
  • Brand: Netgear
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: 2
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: No
Pros
  • Excellent battery life
  • Nice-looking design
  • LCD screen displays valuable information
  • Enables 20 people to connect their devices simultaneously
Cons
  • Relatively bulky
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Netgear Nighthawk MR1100-100NAS
Editors choice

2. TP-Link TL-WR902AC

9.20 / 10
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Compact and versatile, the TP-Link TL-WR902AC is an exceptional solution for anyone who needs a secure and ultra-fast network connection when traveling. The router supports dual-band Wi-Fi, allowing you to enjoy fast connections on both demanding and less demanding devices.

The 5GHz band achieves a wireless speed of up to 433Mbps and 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz, so you can stream and download movies seamlessly. Measuring ‎2.64 x 2.91 x 0.87 inches, the TP-Link TL-WR902AC is designed with traveling in mind. You can position it on your lap when commuting without feeling uncomfortable.

Setting up the TP-Link TL-WR902AC is quick and easy, requiring you to follow the prompts in five steps. You can also access the advanced settings to set up device connectivity, connection schedules, and more. There’s a multi-functional USB port that lets you charge your smartphone or share files via the internet browser to other devices.

Key Features
  • Multi-mode
  • Pocket-sized design
  • Multi-functional USB
Specifications
  • Brand: TP-Link
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: 1
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: Yes
Pros
  • Sturdy body
  • Quick setup process
  • Useful USB port
  • Fast wireless connection
Cons
  • Included cables could be longer
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TP-Link TL-WR902AC

Despite its compact design, the TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N delivers excellent wireless performance to cater to your frequent streaming needs. The router provides you with a consistent speed of up to 300Mbps when on the 2.5GHz frequency band. There are minimal chances of encountering network interruption, so you can play online games, video call clients, and stream videos seamlessly.

Security is top-tier since the router includes the WPA2-PSK, WEP, and WPA-PSK protocols. They add more robust encryption and authentication to your network, protecting your most critical information from intruders. The Repeater, Bridge, Access Point, Client, and Router modes have different network functionalities, enabling you to pick one that matches your needs.

This router occupies less space when tossed in a slim clutch bag as it only measures 2.2 x 2.2 x 0.7 inches. Parents who frequently travel with their kids will appreciate the parental control mode. It lets them block access to inappropriate websites for their kids’ safety.

Key Features
  • Compatible with 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi routers
  • Pocket-sized design
  • Works with 2.4GHz devices
  • Advanced security protocols
Specifications
  • Brand: ‎TP-Link
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: 1
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: No
Pros
  • Easy to carry
  • Quick setup process
  • Parental control feature
  • Delivers seamless internet connection
Cons
  • Limited range
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TP-Link N300 TL-WR802N

If you want a travel router that delivers top-notch speed without compromising security, consider the GL.iNet GL-E750 Router. This travel router ensures travelers have a safe internet connection as it supports multiple open-source VPN protocols, which come in handy when handling sensitive data.

Its WireGuard encryption also utilizes the latest encryption protocols, like Curve25519 and SipHash24, ensuring fewer security vulnerabilities. The dual-band Wi-Fi frequencies with 733Mbps throughput enable you to enjoy a lag-free internet connection on various devices. Battery life is impressive as the GL.iNet GL-E750 Router comes with a 7,000mAh battery. It powers you for up to eight hours when on the move.

You can also turn on the standby mode to put the screen into sleep to extend the battery life. The Mudi app features a highly responsive and user-friendly web control interface. It lets you enter your credentials when connecting to different VPN services and access other valuable settings.

Key Features
  • DDR2 128MB RAM
  • Combined Wi-Fi Speed networking
  • Eight hours battery life
  • Supports over 30 VPN service providers
Specifications
  • Brand: GL.iNet
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
  • Ethernet Ports: 1
  • USB Ports: No
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: No
Pros
  • WireGuard encryption
  • 4G LTE support
  • Ideal for frequent travelers in need of a highly secured network
  • Delivers speedy performance
Cons
  • Small display easily attracts smudges
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GL.iNet GL-E750 Router

The RoamWiFi Router easily outperforms its counterparts with its incredible battery life and speedy internet connection. Speed-wise, the travel router has a download speed of up to 150Mbps and 50Mbps upload to cover your unique needs. Business colleagues and family members traveling together will love the convenience this router offers. It allows five people to connect their computer or smartphone simultaneously for maximum productivity.

Besides featuring an elegant design, the RoamWiFi Router is highly portable. It measures 2.68 x 0.57 x 4.96 inches, so you can comfortably tag it along with your other traveling essentials. You get around 18 hours of continuous internet surfing, thanks to the 5,000mAh built-in battery.

Such power makes it easy to watch live broadcasts, attend zoom meetings, and watch shows without worrying about low battery. The RoamWiFi Router provides reliable network speed and protection in over 160 regions. As such, you won’t have a problem communicating with family members back at home when you travel.

Key Features
  • Connects up to five devices
  • 5,000mAh in-built battery
  • Covers over 160 regions
  • Supports the RomaWiFi App
Specifications
  • Brand: RoamFi
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: No
Pros
  • Excellent battery life
  • High-speed performance
  • Allows you to pay as you go
Cons
  • Only connects to five devices
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RoamWiFi Router

The MIGHTYWIFI Router performs incredibly well, making it a great pick. Onboard is a Qualcomm processor which enables the router to pick signals from a local network, resulting in fast network performance. The dual-band frequency support is an invaluable feature that saves you from interference seen in a single band.

You get up to 150Mbps download and 50Mbps upload speeds for a seamless experience when surfing the web. With the MightyWifi app, you can manage data usage and access other helpful settings. There’s an in-built 5,000mAh battery that powers you for around 12 to 14 hours on a single charge. It saves you from the inconvenience of looking for a power outlet when relaxing in open fields.

10 of your friends or family members can connect to this router and enjoy an uninterrupted wireless connection. Compact and slim, this travel router fits well in your pockets, or you can toss it in your clutch bag.

Key Features
  • Works in over 150 countries
  • Versatile Qualcomm processor
  • 5,000mAh battery
Specifications
  • Brand: MIGHTYWIFI
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
  • USB Ports: 1
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: No
Pros
  • Great battery life
  • Easily portable
  • Easy to use
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MIGHTYWIFI Router

The GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Router addresses the eavesdropping network layers and pay-by-device Wi-Fi annoyances experienced in hotel rooms. With its compact design, only measuring 3.9 x 2.7 x 0.9 inches, this router fits nicely in your pockets. It also delivers incredible Wi-Fi speeds.

The available 2.4GHz and 5GHz signals provide a rate of up to 300Mbps and 433Mbps, respectively, allowing you to enjoy seamless connection in various devices. The GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext router comes with two foldable routers, which increase the router’s capacity to receive and transmit data. It operates on the OpenWRT operating system, ensuring you access better security features and configuration options.

The 16MB of NOR flash and an added 128MB NAND flash for OpenWRT enable you to install torrenting clients, ad blockers, and other packages. The custom web interface makes it easy to see new features after a firmware update.

Key Features
  • 2.4GHz and 5GHz signals
  • 16MB of NOR flash
  • Three customizable LEDs
  • DDRII 128MB memory
Specifications
  • Brand: GL.iNet
  • Wi-Fi Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz
  • Ethernet Ports: 3
  • USB Ports: 2
  • MU-MIMO: No
  • Mesh Network Compatible: No
Pros
  • Simple setup
  • Incredible VPN support
  • Portable
  • Useful OpenWRT operating system
Cons
  • Total bandwidth is pretty low
Buy This Product
GL.iNet GL-AR750S-Ext Router

FAQ

Q: How Do I Fix Common Problems in Travel Routers?

Resetting your router is one of the first steps you should take after experiencing connection issues. You’ll only need to press and hold the reset button for around 15 seconds to allow the router to restore its default settings.

Most travel routers cover small ranges, so the Wi-Fi network may only reach the corners of your room. Such routers struggle to deliver reliable connections because of physical distractions like metal and electric devices. Always place the router in a central location free from such gadgets and walls to avoid signal dropouts.

Like most electronic devices, travel routers overheat after continuous use, causing instability. If the router gets extremely hot, power it off to let it cool down for some minutes. Additionally, check whether the Ethernet cable is damaged or loosely connected before visiting a technician.

Q: How Do Travel Routers Work?

Although travel routers have distinct features, their primary role is to increase the range of existing wireless networks. Travel routers allow you to connect to a network you had difficulties connecting to, like in a hotel. They pick weak signals and amplify them, allowing you to enjoy fast internet connections.

Unlike Wi-Fi networks in hotels which limit you to connect only one device, travel routers let you use multiple gadgets, even with a single login. You only need to log in once through the provided smartphone app or web browser, and then all your devices will connect to the created network.

Q: Are Travel Routers Worth It?

Yes, they are. Well, most airports, hotels, Airbnb’s, and coffee shops give you access to Wi-Fi connections that require no password. However, such networks are insecure since they don’t have encryption protocols, making your crucial data and information vulnerable to hackers. The best travel routers feature top-tier security encryptions like WPA2 and WEP, which are similar to what your home router offers.

They also have built-in VPNs which secure and isolate your communication, so you can confidently handle sensitive tasks. Besides offering you a secure network, most travel routers are pocket-sized, making it easy to carry them when on the go.