The best travel routers allow you to stay connected no matter where you are in the world, making them ideal tools for digital nomads and frequent travelers. We’ve used our years of international work experience to narrow down the best travel routers. Our recommended TP-Link TL-WR1502X Travel Router is compact, fast, and has a hotspot mode, making it ideal for use at airports, cafes, and hotels.
The best travel routers help digital nomads and frequent fliers stay connected around the world.
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A travel router allows you to extend your wireless range, make public WiFi signals private, and bring multiple devices online without having to enter a password every time. Other winning products include a battery-powered travel router that can connect up to five devices, and a versatile option that doubles as a power bank. Below are the best travel routers of 2024.
Best overall travel router: TP-Link TL-WR1502XBest budget travel router: TP-Link AC750Best battery-powered travel router: RoamWiFi R10Best compact travel router: GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AXMost Versatile travel router: NewQ Filehub AC750Best travel router device for multiple people: Netgear Nighthawk M1 (MR1100-100NAS)Best travel router for domestic travel: Netgear Nighthawk M6 (MR6150)
Dimensions: 4.09 x 3.54 x 1.1 inches | Weight: 5.44 oz | Wi-Fi standard: 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Maximum speed: 1201Mbps at 5GHz | Frequency bands: Dual band 2.4GHz, 5GHz
Strong Points:
Compact design Easy to use Excellent Wi-Fi signal
Cons:
No built-in SIM card slot
TP-Link TL-WR1502X offers impressive speeds of up to 1201Mbps on the 5GHz band for uninterrupted online gaming, video streaming, and other activities that require a stable internet connection. In addition to acting as a router, the TL-WR1502X also offers a hotspot mode that transforms public Wi-Fi networks into private and secure networks, making it ideal for use in airports, cafes, and hotels. Comes with AP/RE mode to add Wi-Fi to your wired network and extend Wi-Fi range.
Portability is also a key feature of this travel router. One of the lightest devices on our list, it has no moving parts and easily fits in your pocket or bag. Although this travel router does not have a built-in SIM card slot, multiple features enhance connectivity and provide seamless internet access wherever you are.
Dimensions: 2.91 x 9.87 x 2.64 inches | Weight: 2.4 oz | Wi-Fi standard: 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) | Maximum speed: 433Mbps at 5GHz | Frequency bands: Dual band 2.4GHz, 5GHz
Strong Points:
Compact and lightweight USB port for charging and file sharing Affordable price
Cons:
If you’re shopping for a travel router on a tight budget, the TP-Link AC750 is a solid choice. It offers a powerful and reliable signal in a pocket-sized and lightweight design. It works on one of the latest Wi-Fi standards, ensuring faster performance even when using multiple applications simultaneously. This router offers five modes for versatile use at home or while traveling to maximize wireless range and establish a secure private Wi-Fi network in public areas and other locations.
This router also features a USB port, which is convenient for file sharing and charging small devices such as tablets and smartphones. If dedicated customer service is on your checklist, the brand offers a 2-year warranty and 24/7 technical support for peace of mind.
Dimensions: 2.68 x 0.57 x 4.96 inches | Weight: 6.24 oz | Wi-Fi standards: 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4), 802.11b, 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) | Maximum speed: 150Mbps download | Frequency bands: Dual Band 2.4GHz, 5GHz
Strong Points:
Provides up to 18 hours of connectivity Works with a wide range of devices Rugged design
Cons:
With a variety of data packages available in over 160 countries and territories, this travel router is a great solution for those who want to stay connected without relying on networks provided by airports, hotels, cafes, and other public places. RoamWiFi R10 is equipped with a 5000mAh battery that provides over 18 hours of internet access and takes about 3 hours to fully charge.
This device supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies and is compatible with older and newer devices. You can also connect up to five devices at the same time, which is useful if you need to connect devices other than your laptop and smartphone.
GL.i Net
GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX
Dimensions: 4.92 x 3.23 x 1.42 inches | Weight: 8.64 oz | Wi-Fi standard: 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Maximum speed: 1201Mbps at 5GHz | Frequency bands: Dual band 2.4GHz, 5GHz
Strong Points:
Supports up to 120 devices Compatible with over 30 VPN service providers Superior security features
Cons:
When you’re on the go, a compact router that easily fits in your bag is essential. The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 Slate AX is designed with that in mind. With its sturdy and portable construction, it easily fits in your carry-on, personal items, or pocket, and provides blazingly fast Wi-Fi connectivity reaching up to 1201Mbps on the 5GHz frequency. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or colleagues, Slate AX can connect up to 120 devices at the same time, making sure everyone stays online.
For added security when browsing the web, this travel router supports AdGuard Home software, which blocks ads, tracking, malware, phishing, and even adult websites for travelers with children. Additionally, this router supports over 30 VPN service providers to enhance security without compromising speed performance.
Dimensions: 4.92 x 3.27 x 2.09 inches | Weight: 11.3 oz | Wi-Fi standards: 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) | Maximum speed: 433Mbps at 5GHz | Frequency band: Dual band 2.4GHz ,5GHz
Strong Points:
6500mAh built-in battery SD card reader becomes a mobile battery
Cons:
The most versatile option on our list, the NewQ Filehub AC750 works in multiple different scenarios and use cases. Although it doesn’t come with an external antenna, this compact device provides the main features of a router, including Wi-Fi access and extended signal range. It also features a built-in SD card reader for easy one-click backup of photos and files, and doubles as a power bank to charge your phone when the battery is low. This is, frankly, a feature we didn’t know about. It was necessary and I am very grateful.
This travel router supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, ensuring faster speeds and high-quality Wi-Fi access. Achieve speeds of up to 433Mbps in the 5GHz band.
Dimensions: 4.14 x 4.15 x 0.8 inches | Weight: 8.48 oz | Wi-Fi standard: 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) | Maximum speed: 1Gbps download | Frequency bands: Dual band 2.4GHz, 5GHz
Strong Points:
Connect up to 20 devices Integrated 2.4-inch LCD display Built-in rechargeable battery
Cons:
Requires micro SIM card
Netgear Nighthawk M1 (MR1100-100NAS) is ideal for group travel or situations where you need to connect multiple devices. This compact router can provide Internet access to up to 20 devices simultaneously. A large LCD screen allows you to easily monitor useful information such as battery level, data usage, and number of connected devices. It features a long-lasting battery designed to keep you connected all day on a single charge. If you feel you need more power, you can purchase a second battery separately.
In terms of speed, this travel router supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, reaching download speeds of up to 1 Gbps, depending on your data service and proximity to cell towers.
Weight: 8.8 oz | Dimensions: 4.14 x 0.85 x 4.14 inches | Wi-Fi standard: 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) | Maximum speed: 2.5Gbps | Frequency bands: Dual band 2.4GHz, 5GHz
Strong Points:
LCD touch screen Connect up to 32 devices for easy setup
Cons:
Expensive for use only in the US
Netgear Nighthawk M6 5G Mobile Hotspot is equipped with high-performance Wi-Fi 6 technology and is battery-powered, providing up to 13 hours of Wi-Fi access on a single charge. This hotspot router is equipped with an LCD touchscreen for easy monitoring and supports 5G technology for ultimate connectivity. When you remove the battery and connect the device to a power outlet, it allows up to 2000 square feet of signal range. If you find it difficult to catch a signal, the Nighthawk M6 has two antenna ports for enhanced coverage.
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Forbes’ vetted travel team has created dozens of travel product stories based on rigorous research and first-hand testing.
Forbes’ vetted travel team has experience covering not only the best travel routers, but also other essential travel items like the best travel steamers, travel headphones, TSA-approved locks, and more. This article was written by Joe Niehaus, a Forbes Vetted contributor. He is a frequent traveler and has extensive experience testing travel products and writing comprehensive travel product guides.
How to choose the best travel router
To find the perfect travel router, we looked at many brands, YouTube reviews, and testimonials, along with our team’s years of real-world travel experience.
To make these selections, we relied on exclusive reviews, customer experiences, and personal experience. The author of this story, Joe Niehaus, is a frequent traveler who regularly tests out the latest travel routers while working abroad. To help Forbes readers find the best option for their use case, we considered important features such as weight, dimensions, Wi-Fi standard, maximum speed, and frequency bands. The products you see on this list are the result of hours of thorough research by our team of writers and reviewers, as well as real-world testing of many of the brands listed.
What to look for in a travel router
When choosing a travel router, there are several important things to consider, including Wi-Fi standards, battery life, usage modes, size, and weight. Each of these factors will help you decide which travel router is the most secure.
Wi-Fi standard
Most travel routers operate on the latest and fastest standards, such as 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6). If not, they usually come with very fast 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5). We recommend that you avoid using standards prior to 802.11n as they are significantly slower and more susceptible to interference. Additionally, outdated security protocols may be in use.
battery power
For a truly portable travel router, we recommend choosing a device that runs on battery power. Many travel routers require external power, but if you can’t find a battery-powered router, at least look for one that can be powered through a USB port. This allows you to easily connect it to your power bank or laptop, making it more convenient than searching for a power outlet when you’re on the go.
Usage mode
In addition to providing standard router functionality, travel routers often have multiple modes of use that can provide a variety of solutions. These modes may have different names, but the most common are repeater mode for extending coverage, bridge mode for splitting an existing network, and locations without a wireless network. AP mode for using a wired connection.
size and weight
The main advantage of a travel router is its portable and lightweight design compared to regular routers. The key is to find a router that has a good balance of size and features. The ideal size and weight for a router will depend on your needs, but in most cases it should be small and light enough to fit comfortably in your pocket.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a router and a travel router?
Travel routers are smaller and more portable than regular routers, making them ideal for use on the go.
Can I use my travel router anywhere?
Travel routers are created to allow multiple devices to share a single Internet connection, as long as there is an existing network to which they can connect. So, as long as you have a wired or wireless connection nearby and your router has the necessary capabilities to connect, your device will work.
Does my travel router require a SIM card?
Travel routers don’t necessarily require a SIM card, but it depends on the device. Some travel routers work with existing networks in public spaces, while others require a SIM card and data plan to provide Wi-Fi connectivity. These devices are commonly called hotspots.
