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How to Get Internet While Traveling: Stay Connected On-The-Go

Marie Flanagan
ByMarie Flanagan
Date Updated:  April 22, 2026

Table of Contents

Whether you’re traveling for a long weekend or for months at a time, chances are you’ll need access to internet service wherever you’re going. But how can you stay connected without relying on your phone for everything — or burning through your entire month of data? We’ve got your back, and we’re offering solutions for both scenarios.

Finding the Right Place to Stay

If you’re looking to rent a property for your vacation, it’s important to consider your internet needs. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or taking a long trip, you’ll want to consider if you need to be online while you’re there. If the answer is “of course,” you’re in good company.

About 49% of Americans consider having no internet access a vacation disaster. If the property owner doesn’t list their internet speed and access, be sure to ask.

If you are a long-term vacation renter (such as for a month or a season), compare the available speeds with what you are used to. If your destination doesn’t have comparable speeds, you may need to travel with a router.

To boost your connection, you can look into portable WiFi devices. Many of these wireless devices can operate like a travel router. Wireless internet uses the signals from cell towers. This means they’re more accessible in remote vacation areas.

Remember that there is often a data limit with devices like these. You’ll have to be conscious of what you’re doing online and how much data you’re using. Think of that cap as a good excuse to unplug for a bit.

Already on vacation and looking for a quick way to increase your speeds? Try resetting the rental home’s router, just like you’d do at your own house. While that’s not a long-term solution to connectivity issues, it can help you get back online in the meantime.

WiFi Hotspots for Travelers

Getting WiFi while traveling isn’t the easiest feat. Depending on how you get to your destination, there may be solutions to keep you connected while you’re traveling. Many newer cars come with the option to install WiFi. If you’re not the driver, this can be a great way to be productive while on the road.

If you’re traveling through the air, many airlines offer passengers the option to purchase WiFi access. If you need to get your work done in the air, this may be a good option for you. Other options would be to conduct your work while in the airport using their WiFi or a phone hotspot. Keep in mind that WiFi in public spaces like airports, cafes, and more are open to anyone, including bad actors, so staying secure is a must. More on that later.

Using your phone hotspot is a great way to stay connected when you don’t have other options. Many cell phones come with a mobile hotspot as part of your device, and this can be a good way to use your phone’s connection to get work done. If you’re using your phone’s hotspot, be careful to understand your phone’s data plan and how using your hotspot may impact your phone bill.

Tips for Staying Secure on the Go

When you’re on the road, it can be hard to know where to find free WiFi. Many travelers resort to using a phone hotspot for convenience and over concerns about security. These concerns are understandable, but there are safer ways to use free WiFi in public places.

Use a VPN

One of the best ways to stay safe is to have a VPN for traveling. A VPN, or virtual private network, keeps your device safe when using public WiFi. It does this by creating a digital connection between your device and a remote server.

Limit Using Bluetooth

While Bluetooth is great for connecting to devices in your home or even wearable tech, it can be a risk when you’re traveling. If your Bluetooth is active, hackers can see the networks you’ve connected to in the past and trick your device into connecting. From there, they can either steal your data, spy on you, or put malware and viruses onto your device.

Avoid using Bluetooth at all, if possible, but if you do need it, turn it off when it’s not in use and consider periodically wiping your history.

Invest in a Cyber Safety Package

Think of all the important personal information you access online: medical files, credit scores, bank statements, and more. Choosing a cyber security solution that works across multiple devices and offers identity theft protection and reimbursement, a secure password keychain, and a VPN can make staying safer online as easy as possible.

We recommend Protect+ powered by Norton. It has the features you need, licenses for multiple devices (think: phone and tablets in addition to your laptop or computer), and a million-dollar protection program — a real one-stop-shop solution.

Be Careful with Public WiFi

Having free WiFi in public places is very convenient, especially when you’re waiting in line or working from a different location. It lets you connect to whatever you want without asking someone for a password or burning through your phone’s hotspot. But the ease that public WiFi offers is precisely what makes it so risky. Because public WiFi networks are unencrypted, it’s easy for anyone on that network to see your information while connected.

The best practice is to avoid public WiFi altogether. But if you really do need to use it, here are a few tips:

  • Only use “https” sites (the “s” stands for secure, so these sites protect your information better than http sites).
  • Avoid accessing any sensitive data, like your bank account or medical records.
  • Avoid online shopping or entering your payment information on a site.
  • Be sure to fully disconnect from the network when you’re done using it.
  • Use a VPN.

Portable Connectivity Devices: Top Options for Staying Online on the Go

Looking for reliable ways to stay connected beyond public Wi‑Fi and hotel networks? Here are portable device options—what they’re best for, plus top-rated picks to consider.

  • Mobile hotspot
  • Travel router
    • Best for: Extending or securing hotel/café Wi‑Fi; creating your own private network.
    • Top options:
  • Wi‑Fi range extender
    • Best for: Boosting weak hotel or rental Wi‑Fi in larger spaces.
    • Top options:
  • 5G‑enabled laptop
  • Smartphone with hotspot capability
    • Best for: Quick, flexible connectivity when you don’t have other options.
    • Top options:
      • Apple iPhone 15 — fast 5G, reliable hotspot sharing, strong battery life.
      • Google Pixel 8 — clean Android, excellent tethering, AI call features.
  • USB cellular modem
  • Portable power bank with hotspot support

Pro tips from our Public Wi‑Fi Safety guide:

  • Use a VPN whenever you’re on public or shared Wi‑Fi to keep your data private.
  • When possible, use your phone’s mobile hotspot instead of open networks.
  • Keep Bluetooth off unless you need it; re‑enable only when necessary.
  • Consider an all‑in‑one protection tool like Protect+ powered by Norton for identity and password security.
  • To boost hotel or café Wi‑Fi, sit closer to the router or pack a travel Wi‑Fi extender.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I improve WiFi speed in hotels or public spaces?

To speed up your WiFi, try these tips: Stay close to the router. Connect when there are fewer users. Consider using a WiFi extender to strengthen the signal.

How do I secure my connection when using public WiFi networks?

One of the best ways to secure your connection when using a public WiFi network is to connect using a VPN. You should also avoid online banking, medical records, and other sensitive information while using free wifi in public places.

Conclusion

Wherever you’re traveling, you deserve to have the connection that’s right for you. EarthLink Internet is available at more than 95% of homes across the United States, so there’s a good chance we can help you wherever you roam. Get in touch with one of our internet experts at 866-618-0264 to learn more about our internet services.

Marie Flanagan

Marie Flanagan

Marie Flanagan is a contributing writer for EarthLink. She’s a life-long Atlantan with a passion for SaaS, IoT, AI, fintech, and everything technology. Her ideal offline situation is volunteering in STEM education for girls or on her front porch with a book.

See all posts from Marie Flanagan.