Having an internet connection for the road is essential for frequent travelers and digital nomads. Whether it’s for work, keeping in touch with your loved ones, or checking out local weather, staying online while traveling is the need of the hour.
A high-speed internet connection when traveling across the country or internationally is achievable. It doesn’t cost very much either.
This guide will provide you with the options for getting an internet connection while on the road.
Options for Internet Connection While On the Road
Check out all the available options, and go for the one that works for you!
Your Mobile Service Provider
Check with your mobile phone company if they have any roaming packages as part of a package for countries that you are visiting. These packages are often referred to as international plans. It may be the cheapest way to get online.
For instance, Xfinity, one of the most widely available internet service providers in the US, has roaming plans for traveling to countries outside the US. These roaming charges are cheaper than going without signing up for a plan. You can contact Xfinity customer service for more information on their roaming packages.
However, if you don’t plan on using the mobile service provider’s data when you go abroad, disable data roaming. Otherwise, you will be charged a hefty amount when you return from your destination.
Buy a SIM Card
Another thing you can try is to buy a local SIM card for the destination location. You can get a SIM card on arrival. You can start using the data once you have the SIM card in your phone.
However, some SIM cards won’t work on your smartphones (for international travel) because your phone’s handset has been locked. When unlocked, you can take advantage of the maximum speeds available in the country.
As soon as the data in the new SIM card starts working, you can turn on the hotspot on your phone. That opens up a Wi-Fi connection that your other devices can connect to.
Buy a ‘Travel’ SIM
If you are not using roaming on your SIM and don’t want to go through the hassle of buying a local SIM, you can buy a SIM specially designed for travelers – a travel SIM.
It is more costly than getting a local SIM card, though it depends on your destination. But it’s still convenient. You can get online quickly with a travel SIM and high-speed internet without worrying about roaming charges.
There are plenty of travel SIMs by Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, etc. The best choice depends on where you are going, how long you are going for, and how much data you will be using.
How About Satellite Internet?
You should go for this option if you are traveling in an RV, a boat, or other transport types that offer space for larger devices. You can’t use a mobile hotspot or cellular service because, for one, being in an RV means you need to find locations with cellular service when it isn’t available much. And two, if you are traveling by boat, there are no cell towers in the open sea.
A satellite internet connection is the best option since you can access more physical space and a power source. It consists of a satellite receiver you must mount to point to the satellite in the sky.
The satellite internet connection can cover a vast area. As long as there is a clear view of the sky, you should be able to stay connected to the internet at all times.
Use Public Wi-Fi
If getting your internet connection seems like too much of a hassle, you can use free Wi-Fi networks as you go.
Many places worldwide offer free Wi-Fi connections, such as restaurants, bars, museums, and many other locations that are open to the public. Your hotel will nearly always have free Wi-Fi included with your room charges.
Also, some mobile service providers offer free Wi-Fi connections in public spaces if you are traveling locally. For instance, you can use hundreds of Xfinity hotspots nationwide if you are an Xfinity mobile user. All you need is your Xfinity credentials, and you are ready.
Be sure to have a VPN when connecting to a public Wi-Fi connection. Since it’s open to everyone, there’s a threat of hackers taking over your devices and stealing your personal information.
Final Thoughts
There you have it; you have plenty of options for getting an internet connection while on the road for days. You no longer have to worry about not getting online, letting your loved ones know where you are, and having access to Google Maps.
However, be sure to do proper research about how you can have an internet connection before you start traveling.