Staying connected on the go is crucial these days whether you‘re a business traveler or casual wanderer. That‘s why having the best travel router is essential when you hit the road. But with hundreds of routers to choose from, picking the right one can be overwhelming.
That‘s where this definitive guide to 2023‘s top travel routers comes in. Here we‘ve done extensive hands-on testing of all the latest models to help you find your perfect portable WiFi companion.
How We Chose the Best Travel Routers
When evaluating travel routers, we focused on these seven essential criteria:
Portability
The ideal travel router should be light and compact enough to toss in your backpack or purse without weighing you down. We gave preference to routers with a sleek, durable design built for life on the go.
Battery Life
No one wants their router battery to die mid-voyage, so we made sure to choose models that can run for 8+ hours off a single charge. For added peace of mind, we looked for routers with USB charging capabilities as well.
WiFi Speed and Standards
Fast, reliable WiFi is a must, so we gave preference to dual-band AC routers offering speeds over 400 Mbps. We also made sure routers supported the latest WiFi 5 and WiFi 6 standards for wider device compatibility and peak performance.
Setup and Use
Fiddling with complex settings is the last thing you want to worry about on vacation, so we favored routers offering intuitive apps and one-touch connectivity. Those better for non-techie users scored highest.
Security Features
Guarding your data is crucial when connecting through public networks, so we prioritized routers with robust encryption, firewalls, and VPN support. Guest network options also help keep your devices secure.
Price
Of course price plays a role as well. We aimed to include both top-of-the-line routers with premium features along with quality budget options under $50. This helps guarantee an excellent travel router pick for every budget.
Features
In terms of extra capabilities, we evaluated routers on useful perks including things like USB ports for storage sharing, mobile apps for remote management, dynamic rerouting to avoid congestion, and more. Models with more smart features ranked higher.
With the methodology covered, let‘s dive into this year‘s leading travel routers to help your next voyage stay seamlessly connected!
1. TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Travel Router – Best Overall
Rating: 4.8/5
Price: $39.99
The TP-Link AC750 is a superbly well-rounded travel router for on-the-go Internet access thanks to its portable design, speedy dual-band WiFi, handy app, and user-friendly operation.
Image courtesy of TP-Link
Key Features and Benefits
The AC750 punches well above its size class for a portable router, offering a wealth of handy capabilities, including:
- Lightning-fast dual-band WiFi reaching speeds up to 433 Mbps (5GHz band) and 300 Mbps (2.4GHz band)
- MicroUSB port for charging smartphones/tablets or file sharing
- Supports a variety of operation modes like repeater, bridge, access point, and more
- Mobile app makes it easy to configure and monitor your router remotely
- Compact design and built-in battery provide true portability and flexibility
With that power packed into a pocket-sized frame, the AC750 provides an awesome mix of performance, versatility, convenience, and overall value that well earned its top spot on our list.
Where the AC750 Could Improve
The only slight drawback to the AC750 is that the plastic housing feels a bit flimsier than pricier travel routers. But for a sub-$40 model that delivers so many great capabilities, it’s an excellent all-around choice.
Recommended For: Most travelers seeking an affordable yet mighty portable WiFi router with speed to spare.
2. RAVPower FileHub Travel Router – Best for Security
Rating: 4.7/5
Price: $59.99
When it comes to keeping your data secure through public networks, the RAVPower FileHub should be your travel router of choice thanks to built-in VPN client capabilities, password-protected networks, and more safety perks.
Image via TechforGamers
What Makes It Secure
Along with essentials like WPA2 encryption and firewall protection, the FileHub really stands out for security with features such as:
- Integrated VPN client for encrypted Web traffic over any network
- Guest network capability to isolate guests from your main devices
- Double VPN server offering two-layer encryption
- Password-protected SD file sharing
So for peace of mind securing sensitive data on the road, the FileHub is a fantastic choice.
Other Key Perks
Aside from robust safety tools, the FileHub travel router also shines when it comes to useful bonus features, like:
- Large 6700 mAh battery for mobile charging
- Media streaming via DLNA or AirPlay
- SD/USB file transfer capability
- Portable NAS storage via connected drives
- Remote file access through FTP server
With that versatility along with top-notch security provisions, the FileHub is an elite yet affordable option for travelers who prioritize protection.
Recommended For: Anyone transmitting sensitive data or working remotely through public connections.
3. GL.iNet Spitfire AR.750S Travel Router – Best Range
Rating: 4.6/5
Price: $49.90
Shopping on a budget doesn‘t mean you have to sacrifice performance, as evidenced by the long reach and swift dual-band connectivity of GL.iNet’s Spitfire AR.750S travel router.
Image courtesy of GL.iNet
Why We Love the Range
Outfitted with two 5dBi antennas, this little router can broadcast WiFi an impressive 250 meters to blanket even large hotel rooms or campsites. Meanwhile, with 867Mbps peak throughput, it won’t leave your devices lagging either.
Helping you stay swift and connected anywhere, highlights include:
- Dual-band 300Mbps 2.4GHz + 867Mbps 5GHz with two high-gain antennas
- 867Mbps capability 3X faster than most hotel WiFi
- Four times the range of typical travel routers
- Gigabit WAN port for max speeds over Ethernet
So for just $50, the Spitfire delivers excellent range and bandwidth perfect for large spaces or streaming media without buffering.
Room for Improvement
My main gripe with the Spitfire is lack of VPN support, which would bolster security for public WiFi use. But its long reach and speedy performance help offset that omission in my book.
Recommended For: Budget travelers who need to cover larger hotel rooms or campsites with fast, reliable WiFi access.
4. Netgear Nighthawk M1 Mobile Router – Best for Gaming
Rating: 4.5/5
Price: $299.99
Ranking as the priciest on our list, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 commands a premium cost thanks to blazing LTE connectivity and gaming-optimized performance perfect for online multiplayer on the move.
Image courtesy of Netgear
Why Gamers Love It
Built for low latency and high capacity, gaming highlights include:
- Integrated gigabit LTE modem with DL speeds up to 1Gbps
- 802.11ac WiFi supporting 20+ devices at once
- Quad-core 1.7GHz CPU keeps performance optimized
- Useful gaming settings like Dynamic QoS prioritization
With that killer speed, the M1 keeps even graphics-heavy multiplayer titles running smooth as butter while you roam.
Downsides to Consider
My main complaints would be lack of stylish design, somewhat shorter battery life (still 24 hours+), and that extremely steep $300+ price tag. But for gaming enthusiasts who want bleeding edge performance, it‘s easily worth the premium.
Recommended For: Hardcore online gamers seeking ultra-low latency and no lag while traveling internationally.
5. HooToo Tripmate Nano Travel Router – Best Budget
Rating: 4.3/5
Price: $29.99-$39.99
If those premium routers stretch your budget too far, check out the affordable brilliance of HooToo’s TripMate Nano instead. For well under $40, it still provides portable connectivity and handy features to keep your devices happy on the go.
Image courtesy of HooToo
What $30 Gets You
Despite the low price, you still get capabilities like:
- Dual-band 300Mbps WiFI with long 160 foot range
- 10-hour battery for longevity while mobile
- Useful bridge, repeater, router, and AP modes
- Convenient USB port for charging or file backups
- Compact and lightweight puck design fits anywhere
Understanding the Tradeoffs
Given the super low cost, you won’t get the fastest speeds or most advanced features. And the plastic body looks more toy-like than premium. But for basic on-the-go WiFi access, it gets the job done wonderfully.
Recommended For: Thrifty travelers who want a portable router on a tight budget.
Key Factors for Picking the Perfect Travel Router
Beyond checking items off the above criteria checklist, keep these additional tips in mind when shopping travel routers:
Consider battery pack compatibility: Many routers like the AC750 above recharge via USB cables. So I recommend pairing yours with a battery pack for easy emergency juicing while mobile.
Remember the range: Hotel room walls can block signals, so having a router strong enough to cut through cement and reach your device anywhere inside can prove important.
Read the fine print on data limits: Some travel-ready routers like the Nighthawk actually use cellular data from a SIM card instead of WiFi. Know what limits apply and what overage fees you may incur.
Check administrative options: Features for monitoring data usage or limiting kids’ Internet time can come in handy while managing a group on vacation.
Verify global roaming bands: If traveling internationally, ensure your router can tap networks abroad or offers an unlocked SIM card slot providing more flexibility.
Keep aspects like those in mind, and you’re guaranteed to find an exceptional travel router matching your unique needs among the awesome options above!
Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Routers
Still feeling overwhelmed when it comes to picking and using portable routers? No worries! Here are answers to some commonly asked questions for extra guidance:
What exactly is a travel router and how does it work?
A travel router is a small, portable wireless router designed specifically for use while traveling or out and about. It broadcasts a WiFi signal from a wired internet connection in places like hotels so you can then connect multiple devices wirelessly. Some models have built-in SIM card slots or batteries as well, providing internet anywhere.
What are the main advantages of using a travel router?
Some key perks of travel routers include:
- Getting wireless access in hotels or rooms with only wired internet
- Connecting many WiFi devices to a single wired jack
- Boosting WiFi signals that are too weak on their own
- Adding extra security through firewalls and encryption
- Providing backup internet via cellular data if no other WiFi exists
How are travel routers different from mobile hotspots?
While the devices have some overlap, a mobile hotspot uses cellular data and acts as a standalone WiFi network. Travel routers primarily use existing WiFi connections as their internet source and give you more configuration settings like guest networks. However, some cross-over models like the Nighthawk above support LTE data too.
What should I look for when shopping travel routers?
As outlined above, key factors like portability, battery life, speed, security, and ease of use distinguish top-rated options. Matching a router’s capabilities and features to your personal needs is crucial as well. Additional aspects like WiFi standards, antenna design, processor performance, warranty, and customer support merit consideration too before deciding on a specific model.
Any pro tips for setting up or using my travel router?
I recommend always keeping the router charged as a backup for dodgy hotel WiFi. Download any associated apps for easy remote management before your trip too. And don’t forget travel-friendly accessories like battery packs, USB cables, Ethernet cords, or adapters to maximize what your router can handle while mobile.
Final Verdict – #1 Travel Router of 2023
While any of the routers above can empower world-class WiFi virtually anywhere, the TP-Link AC750 stands tall as my top overall choice for 2023. With its compelling blend of portability, performance, useful features, intuitive interface, and affordability, the AC750 offers hard-to-beat bang for your buck.
Whether you need guest networking capabilities for family, robust encryption to protect work data, or reliable speeds to stream movies from hotel rooms, the AC750 travel router handles it all with ease. For under $40, you just can’t beat it for everyday functionality, versatility, and value.
That said, power users wanting elite gaming latency or premium business-class perks may prefer the likes of Netgear‘s mighty M1 instead thanks to its top-tier parts. And GL.iNet‘s Spitfire definitely takes the long-range budget crown.
But for most mainstream travelers, TP-Link stands triumphant year after year as the best overall travel router money can buy. So snag an AC750 to stay connected in style without breaking the bank!
