8 Easy Ways To Get Internet For Travel

Staying connected while travelling is essential and unavoidable in a world where almost all your needs are fulfilled digitally on your smartphone. Be it work, finding your way in a new city, or simply being in touch with friends and family, having reliable internet access while on the go can really enhance the travel experience in manifolds while cutting down your anxiety. 

Fortunately, there are some easy and accessible ways to get internet for travel, regardless of where you are flying to or what your budget is. In this blog, we will examine the various options for getting wifi for travel and understand the advantages and challenges of each option. 

Best Ways to Get Internet for Travel

There are several ways to get internet for travel. From eSIMs to portable WiFi devices, every option has amazing benefits and challenges. However, being aware of both the pros and cons of every option can help you make a better decision while choosing one for your travelling requirements. So, let’s dive in! 

1. International Mobile Data Plans 

One of the most popular and simplest ways to get internet for travel is to get international data plans. Your network provider provides these plans as roaming plans. Roaming allows your SIM to connect to local networks and thus gives you uninterrupted internet access as you travel internationally. 

International mobile data plans on roaming provide services like calling, texting, and internet for travel. While some providers may offer free roaming, some others charge roaming fees. So, if you are looking to choose this option, contact your service provider and discuss the potential plans with them to choose a plan that’s perfect for your needs. 

Advantage: 

• Easy to use, you only have to switch on roaming on your phone. 
• No need for any additional devices 
• Your phone number doesn’t change 
• Some providers offer free roaming 

Challenges: 

• The roaming fee can be very expensive
• May come with data usage limits 

2. eSIM Cards 

If you are travelling through multiple countries and need uninterrupted and reliable internet for travel, eSIM cards are one of the best options. eSIM internet plans or embedded SIM cards provide coverage in many countries; thus, there’s no need to buy a local SIM card whenever you are in a new country. 

eSIM cards are also already embedded in the device, so say goodbye to continuously switching SIM cards; all you need to do is go to your settings and switch to the local data network. eSIMs are also more easily available, unlike local SIM cards, which may take some time and thus delay your internet for travel for some time. 

Advantages: 

• Easy, convenient and more accessible
• Covers multiple countries around the world
• No need to switch SIM cards 
• Instant set up and reliable internet connection
• Great for both long and short-term travel

Challenges: 

• Requires new models of smartphones that are compatible with eSIM
• It may not be the cheapest option

3. Portable WiFi Devices 

If you have multiple devices or even for group travellers, a portable Wi-Fi hotspot can be one of the best ways to get internet for travel. These compact devices connect to the local network and then broadcast a Wi-Fi signal that can give you internet access on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

You can either rent or purchase portable Wi-Fi hotspots in popular travel destinations. As a travel essential, you can probably even find them at airports, rental car agencies, and electronics stores. With portable Wi-Fi for travel, you can get internet for travel without the worries of SIM cards or roaming fees as soon as you sit in your airport pick-up shuttle!

Advantages: 

• Its lightweight and compact size make it easier to carry
• No roaming charges 
• Internet access on multiple devices at once 

Challenges: 

• May have limited data and battery life 
• Can be expensive to rent or buy 

4. Local SIM Card 

If you are looking for something convenient and cost-effective to access the internet for travel, taking the traditional way and purchasing a local SIM card can be a great option. You can get local SIM cards at airports, convenience stores, and mobile carrier shops. These local SIM cards allow you to connect to the local cellular network and provide you with fast and reliable internet access when you are away from home.

Advantages: 

• Reliable and fast internet connection
• The cheapest way to access the internet for travel 
• Local rates applied on data plans 

Challenges: 

• Not practical if you are travelling to multiple countries in a short span 
• You have to go to the shop physically to buy the SIM card 

5. Free Public WiFi Networks 

Public Wi-Fi networks are available in most major cities and tourist destinations. Cafes, restaurants, airports, and hotels are some very common places that offer free Wi-Fi to connect to and access the internet for travel. While it is pretty convenient and often free to use for anyone, these Wi-Fi networks can differ in speed, reliability, and security.

If you are connecting to a public Wi-Fi network, exercise caution. Avoid accessing sensitive information like online banking or personal emails. For extra security, you may consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection while protecting your data from potential cyber threats.

Advantages:

• You can get it at major spots of the city free of cost 
• No additional hardware or software is needed for the Internet for travel 
• Can help you save on your mobile data usage 

Challenges: 

• Can be slow, patchy or unreliable, as many people use it at the same time 
• Maybe unsecured with risks of cyber attacks 
• Limitations and restrictions on the data usage limit 

6. Global SIM Cards 

If you are visiting multiple countries or regions in a short period of time, finding reliable internet for travel can be a huge task. In such scenarios, local SIM cards may not be a great idea. For such travellers, a travel SIM card or a global SIM card can offer the perfect, convenient solution they are looking for. These special SIM cards offer data coverage in multiple destinations around the globe, allowing you to stay connected to the internet for travel without having to change SIM cards or switch carriers.

You can get your global SIM card from different providers and access the internet for travel. These can be purchased online or at airports and travel stores. Make sure to research the coverage areas and data rates of your card before buying it so all your needs are met! 

Advantages: 

• Convenient and flexible to use while travelling to multiple destinations 
• Seamless coverage in all the pre-decided destinations

Challenges: 

• Maybe more expensive than eSIMs and local SIM cards 
• It may provide slower internet 

7. USB Dongles 

USB dongles are compact devices that plug directly into your laptop's USB port to provide a private internet connection. They use SIM cards with mobile data plans, so you can simply purchase a local prepaid SIM at your destination and insert it into the dongle. This option is often more secure than relying on public Wi-Fi and allows you to work or browse freely. Dongles are ideal for travellers who need reliable internet access for laptops but can also connect to other devices via a shared hotspot feature, making them versatile for travel needs.

Advantages:

• USB dongles provide a dedicated connection, often more stable than public Wi-Fi.
• Since it’s your own private network, USB dongles are generally safer than connecting to open public Wi-Fi.
• You can swap SIM cards based on local data plans, saving on roaming fees and offering better coverage.

Disadvantages:

• USB dongles usually only work with laptops, limiting use for other devices unless it supports hotspot sharing.
• You need to purchase both the dongle and a local SIM card, which may add to travel expenses.
• Connection speed depends on local network coverage, which may vary widely by location and carrier.

8. Using Apps That Don’t Require Mobile Data

Several apps offer offline functionality, allowing you to access essential information without needing an internet connection. Apps like Google Maps let you download entire maps of cities, while language apps like Duolingo offer offline lessons. Some travel guides, currency converters, and note-taking apps also work offline, providing directions, language assistance, and information on the go. Downloading content in advance reduces data costs and ensures you have critical travel info even if internet access is limited or costly at your destination.

Advantages:

• Offline apps allow you to access maps, translation tools, and other resources without using mobile data.
• No need to purchase data plans or worry about roaming fees, making this an economical option.
• Offline apps work even in remote places with no internet coverage, ensuring access to essential information.

Disadvantages:

• Offline versions often lack real-time features, like updated traffic in maps or new messages in communication apps.
• You need to download content in advance, which requires planning and sometimes storage space.
• Only certain apps offer offline access, so your options may be limited based on your needs.

Every traveller is unique, and so is their internet for travel needs. So, naturally, no one solution fits all. The availability of so many easy ways of getting internet access on the go can thus be beneficial for every type of traveller with all types of needs. Be it going on your first international vacation trip or taking a long, multi-destination trip, you can always choose your connectivity options that fulfil all your needs seamlessly!