Best portable Wi-Fi router for travel in 2025
Staying connected to the internet while traveling for business or leisure is paramount. The best portable Wi-Fi router solves some of the most common internet frustrations – slow hotel Wi-Fi, unsecured public networks, and expensive mobile data. Namely, a great travel router should guarantee fast, stable, and private internet anywhere: business trips, remote work, or vacations.
I’ve compared the best portable Wi-Fi routers, identifying the top travel routers for speed, security, simplicity, and convenience. In my view, a personal Wi-Fi router should make things simple while offering high speed and handling multiple connected devices without breaking a sweat.
This guide, backed by Cybernews research, breaks down the best portable Wi-Fi router in 2025. No matter if it’s a travel router for hotel Wi-Fi or a portable router for travel, this guide covers all of the options. Let’s find the right portable router Wi-Fi for you.
Best portable Wi-Fi routers for travel – shortlist
- TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router TL-WR1502X – best portable Wi-Fi router in 2025
- GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Portable Travel Router – OpenWrt-based Wi-Fi 6 router with VPN
- Amazon Eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi router – simplest large home mesh coverage
- TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router(TL-WR902AC) – most compact multi-mode travel router
- GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Wi-Fi Router – budget-friendly open-source VPN router
- ASUS RT-AX57 Go - AX3000 Dual Band Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Travel Router – high-performance portable Wi-Fi 6 router
The best portable Wi-Fi routers for travel compared
Before my individual reviews, I compared my chosen routers in a quick general comparison table you can always refer to. A quick glance at this table lets you easily see the differences in features, price, speed, and suitability based on your travel needs.
| Model name | Pricing | Best for | Speed & Wi-Fi standard | Key features |
| TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router TL-WR1502X | Affordable | General travel use, VPN security | Up to 1.5Gbps, Wi-Fi 6 | VPN (OpenVPN/WireGuard), USB tethering, gigabit ports, Type-C power |
| GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Portable Travel Router | Mid-Range | Advanced VPN & security, multi-device support | Up to 3Gbps, Wi-Fi 6 | VPN support, OpenWrt OS, 2.5G WAN port, AdGuard, USB 3.0 |
| Amazon Eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Router | Premium | Whole-home mesh coverage, smart home integration | Up to 1.77Gbps, Wi-Fi 6 | Whole-home mesh, Zigbee smart hub, easy setup, WPA3 security |
| TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router (TL-WR902AC) | Affordable | Budget-friendly compact travel option | Up to 733Mbps, Wi-Fi 5 | Compact, USB file sharing, multiple modes (router, AP, extender) |
| GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Wi-Fi Router | Affordable | Ultra-budget travel router, VPN support | Up to 300Mbps, Wi-Fi 4 | VPN (WireGuard/OpenVPN), USB 2.0, power bank support |
| ASUS RT-AX57 Go - AX3000 Dual Band Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Travel Router | Mid-Range | High-performance travel Wi-Fi, VPN, security | Up to 3Gbps, Wi-Fi 6 | VPN (WireGuard/OpenVPN), AiProtection security, guest portal, AiMesh support |
6 best portable Wi-Fi routers for travel – our detailed list
Below are my top six portable Wi-Fi routers for travel, reviewed in-depth. I’ve detailed each device’s key features and technical specifications, best use cases, and why you should consider it.
1. TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router TL-WR1502X – overall best for portable Wi-Fi in 2025
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 1.5Gbps |
| Best for: | General travel use, Wi-Fi 6 speeds, connectivity modes |
I chose the TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router as my top pick. It’s an affordable all-rounder – a slim router with many connectivity options. It measures 104 x 90 x 28mm (about the size of a deck of double-stacked playing cards).
It has Wi-Fi 6 technology with combined speeds up to 1.5Gbps for smooth streaming and gaming while traveling. What’s really impressive are its many connectivity modes: router, USB tethering, 3G/4G USB modem, hotspot, access point, range extender, and client modes.
Security is good. WPA3, OpenVPN, and Wireguard encryption provide privacy and security when connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi hotspots. Connectivity is also solid, with gigabit Ethernet ports (1x WAN, 1x LAN) for wired connections to max out speeds and lower latency. There’s also a Type-C power input (with Quick Charge) for standard chargers and power banks for a truly portable experience.
The setup is very simple via the TP-Link Tether App. Simply connect to the router’s default Wi-Fi network, and follow the step-by-step instructions.
2. GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Portable Travel Router – built-in ad-blocking and advanced VPN features
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 3Gbps |
| Best for: | OpenWrt users, multi-gig wired connections, VPN support |
The GL.iNET Beryl AX (GL-MT3000) is a Wi-Fi 6 router with great security and customization. It’s actually one of the top travel routers with a VPN. Unlike the others here, it runs OpenWrt 21.02, with thousands of plugins for advanced networking, ad-blocking, and firewall control. It measures 120 x 83 x 34mm – about the size of a compact smartphone.
Performance-wise, it tops out at 3Gbps combined for buffer-free 4K streaming, competitive online gaming, and quick file transfers – tied for the fastest router in my lineup. Its 2.5G WAN port suits wired connections over 1Gbps (and will benefit multi-gig internet plans). Also, it supports 5G mobile internet, and DFS (Dynamic Frequency Selection) combat network congestion.
It’s also very secure, with pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard, plus support for over 30 VPN (Virtual Private Network) services. Also, there’s DNS-over-TLS, AdGuard Home, and WPA3 encryption to protect your devices on public Wi-Fi.
It uses USB-C for power, and USB 3.0 for external storage (for local file sharing). Setup isn’t difficult even for beginners thanks to the well-organized OpenWrt interface.
3. Amazon Eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi Router – seamless whole-home coverage with automatic performance optimization
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 1.77Gbps |
| Best for: | Whole-home coverage, mesh networking, easy setup and management |
The Amazon Eero 6 Mesh Wi-Fi router is a Wi-Fi 6 mesh system, unlike standalone routers. Typically, mesh systems can be expanded up to three units for placement around your home to eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones (signal loss), so you can add up to three Eeros for seamless coverage. This router’s dimensions are 99.4 x 97 x 61.4mm – roughly the size of a mini Bluetooth speaker.
It’s got two gigabit Ethernet ports that max out at 1Gbps for wired connections (its 5GHz wireless band is a little faster under optimal conditions). This router’s TrueMesh technology makes connections stable and fast by intelligently routing traffic, while automatic updates keep the router up-to-date with the latest features and security improvements.
For security, it has WPA3 encryption, VPN passthrough, and cloud management. Advanced security features require the optional, paid Eero Plus subscription.
What’s great is that it’s got a built-in Zigbee smart home hub. This works with Alexa for controlling smart devices like lights, locks, and plugs. Setup is incredibly easy using the Eero app.
4. TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router (TL-WR902AC) – ultra-compact travel router with solid performance
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 733Mbps |
| Best for: | Ultra-portability, easy setup, multiple modes |
The TP-Link AC 750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router (TL-WR902AC) is a tiny travel router that fits into the palm of your hand at just 74 x 67 x 22mm. It’s the smallest router in my lineup – although it’s surprisingly capable, and practical.
It’s got a total combined speed of 733Mbps (impressive for such a tiny device), while it supports multiple modes like router, access point, range extender, client, and hotspots – fantastic for various Wi-Fi scenarios. On the other hand, its wired speed is limited to just 100Mbps, so you’re much better off using its 5GHz wireless band instead.
It also packs a Micro USB port into its tiny frame, so you can share files or charge other devices with up to 5V/2A of power. For security, it includes WPA2 encryption, a firewall, and access control settings. Setup is simple for beginners via the TP-Link Tether app.
5. GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN Wi-Fi Router – affordable travel router with strong privacy features
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11n) |
| Frequency bands: | Single-band (2.4GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 300Mbps |
| Best for: | VPN usage, ultra-compact router, light use |
The GL.iNET GL-MT300N-V2 (Mango) is the smallest and lightest router in my lineup, at just 58 x 58 x 25mm – comparable to a matchbox. It only goes up to 300Mbps on its single 2.4GHz band. Like other small routers, you’ll see faster speeds on Wi-Fi instead of via Ethernet (alternatively, you can plug in a 4G USB modem).
That said, it’s got advanced security features. Mango supports OpenVPN, WireGuard, and even DNS-over-TLS for private browsing. It also has a built-in firewall and supports over 30 VPN service providers (OpenVPN client) – great for those risky public Wi-Fi connections.
This router also supports OpenWrt and can be used for custom hardware projects via its GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins e.g., you can create Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications to control sensors or external devices.
GL.iNET has fitted dual Ethernet ports, plus a Micro USB power input (to power the router via a power bank or laptop). 5V/2A power adapters are sold separately. It’s also easy to set it up via the GL.iNET web interface.
6. ASUS RT-AX57 Go – AX3000 Dual Band Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Travel Router – high-speed travel router with enterprise-grade security
| Wi-Fi standard: | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Frequency bands: | Dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) |
| Max speed: | Up to 3Gbps |
| Best for: | High-speed, enterprise-grade security, traveling professionals |
The ASUS RT-AX57 Go is a high-performance travel router with Wi-Fi 6, capable of up to 3Gbps across two bands (up to 2.4Gbps on its 5GHz band). It’ll handle dozens of devices thanks to 160MHz channels on its 5GHz band. Its dimensions (120 x 120 x 21.5mm) are comparable to a compact external hard drive.
It’s also full of enterprise-grade security features with ASUS’s AiProtection Classic powered by Trend Micro for completely free protection for all connected devices. Also, it supports over 30 VPN providers via WireGuard and OpenVPN for potentially risky public Wi-Fi networks.
Additionally, you get tri-mode connectivity with the RT-AX57 Go, meaning you can use it in router mode, hotspot mode, or mobile tethering mode (up to 5G mobile internet). Also, you can mesh other ASUS routers with AiMesh to expand your internet signal around your home or office.
This router’s two Ethernet ports max out at 1Gbps. It’s also got one USB, and one USB-C power port. Setup is simple via the ASUS Router app, even for beginners.
How did we select the best portable Wi-Fi routers for travel?
To find the best portable Wi-Fi routers for travel in 2025, I took a structured approach to my research and review. My team at Cybernews helped me conduct extensive research on a range of portable router models (many of which didn’t make it to my lineup).
Here’s how I chose my top routers:
- Extensive research (40%): The Cybernews team and I meticulously scanned product specifications, real-world customer feedback, and official performance data. I preferred Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 5 routers – for higher speeds, lower latency, and greater device handling – since they’re simply superior to older Wi-Fi standards for modern travel. Also, I examined important security features like VPN support and encryption protocols. I also took each router’s physical size and weight into account to assess portability for a well-rounded selection.
- Test criteria (40%): I chose routers based on key aspects like speed, security features, simplicity of setup, pricing, and customer support. I assessed each router’s multi-device performance figures, and how well a particular device handles various internet sources (wired, wireless, and mobile data). Devices with unique features, and those with a high price-to-performance ratio scored extra points.
- Expert opinions (20%): Cybernews tech specialists gave me important insights into each router’s real-world reliability and performance. Their expert input was invaluable for refining my selections. Every router had to meet the team’s minimum technical requirements to pass as a top travel router.
What's a travel router? (and how do they work?)
A travel router is a device designed to be portable while providing you with internet connectivity. Travel routers are popular among travelers and business professionals on the move.
You most likely have a home router in your home, which is how you’re online right now. Unlike a traditional home router or internet service provider (ISP) modem box, a travel router is meant for connecting a small number of devices in close proximity (such as a laptop, phone, tablet, or streaming device in a hotel room).
Typically, people use travel routers to connect to a public or hotel Wi-Fi network to create a private and secure Wi-Fi network for their other devices to join. This means that your personal data is protected from unsecured, open public networks which are prone to hacking. That’s why many travel routers offer VPNs, so you can encrypt your activities out in public.
Imagine not having to log in to the hotel’s Wi-Fi network every time you switch devices. That’s just one thing a portable router can do for you. Some models even offer additional modes like repeater modes – where the router acts as a signal booster – as well as mobile tethering modes (for internet access via mobile data).
You might think that your flagship smartphone is enough for internet connectivity. However, portable routers will provide stronger signals, additional security measures, support more devices, preserve your phone’s battery, and offer extra options for additional connectivity.
Travel router vs. personal hotspot: which one is better?
There are two popular ways to stay connected while traveling: a travel router or a personal hotspot. Each will do the job for particular use cases.
For example, a travel router can serve dozens of devices simultaneously. Also, it’ll have standalone security and better signal thanks to purpose-built antennas and a separate processor. Travel routers are also safer for public or hotel Wi-Fi networks (with features like WPA3 encryption).
On the other hand, a personal hotspot is a simpler option that uses your mobile data plan. It’s best for when you need immediate internet access without needing to configure an entirely separate device. Here’s a quick comparison of the two:
Travel router:
- Handles many devices simultaneously
- Can be powered separately
- Can extend existing Wi-Fi signals
- More secure encryption protocols
- Often supports VPN connections
Personal hotspot:
- Portable, quick access
- Needs a mobile plan or SIM card
- Can’t handle dozens of devices
- Will drain your phone’s battery
- Less secure than routers
So, if you're traveling with multiple devices (or with a group of people) – or need a reliable connection for work – look for a travel router. It’ll distribute the internet connection evenly to multiple devices, and improve security with features like VPN support, DNS-over-TLS, and ad-blocking.
However, if you just need mobile internet without the extra effort, a personal hotspot is easier (though mobile data can get pricey). Remember, there’s also a limit to the number of devices you can connect and it’ll drain your phone’s battery.
How to choose the right portable Wi-Fi router for travel
When you’re choosing the right portable Wi-Fi router for travel, it’s natural to have many questions, since it isn’t as simple as picking the most expensive or most popular model. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:
- Coverage area: Make sure the router you pick is compatible with the network standards in the regions you’ll be traveling to. Some routers can be used anywhere, while others are region-specific.
- Device compatibility: Think about how many devices your router needs to serve. A top travel router handles dozens of devices simultaneously without overheating or speed drops.
- Battery life: Some routers have internal batteries, while others need to be plugged into a wall socket, powerbank, or USB port to work. Think about how you’ll use the router and where.
- Speed: Speed is critical. Pick a router that works with your lifestyle. If you’re a heavy streamer or remote-work professional, look for Wi-Fi 6 routers with combined speeds of over 2Gbps and at least one 1Gbps Ethernet port. If not, a budget nano travel router could work for you.
- Security features: Security is important for everyone. Public Wi-Fi networks are prone to hacking and interception, and this can spell horror if someone intercepts your password or financial details. Look for routers with at least WPA3 encryption and VPN support.
- Ease of setup: Some routers are more customizable, while others have a one-click setup that’s great for beginners. Pick a router that matches your level of technical ability.
Final word on best portable Wi-Fi router for travel
After spending weeks comparing these top portable Wi-Fi routers for travel, the TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router TL-WR1502X is my winner as the best travel router. Simply put, this router ticks all of the requirements of the Cybernews research team: compact form factor, fast speeds, tight security, and flexible connectivity options.
As you’ve seen, choosing the “perfect” Wi-Fi router for travel isn’t easy. It involves a lot of knowledge and consideration. On top of that, there are many portable routers on the market – making your choice even more complicated.
This guide is here to help you pinpoint the right router for your specific use case, whether that’s a high-performance travel router or a mini router that you can slip into your pocket. Whenever you feel stuck while shopping for a portable router, refer to my comparison table and in-depth reviews.
FAQ
Can I use a portable Wi-Fi router for travel without a SIM card?
Yes, you can use a portable Wi-Fi router for travel without a SIM card. You can use it in hotspot or repeater mode, or connect it to a Wi-Fi network near you.
How secure is a travel router compared to public Wi-Fi?
A travel router is much more secure compared to public Wi-Fi. Many public Wi-Fi networks are unsecured and compromised. Connecting to such a network without security features means risking your private data.
Do portable Wi-Fi routers work in all countries?
No, portable Wi-Fi routers don’t all work in all countries. Some routers are region-specific, so check compatibility with local network standards.
How many devices can I connect to a travel router?
That depends on the router’s capacity. Some travel routers let you connect over 50 simultaneous devices. For instance, the TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router TL-WR1502X can efficiently handle 10-20 devices thanks to Wi-Fi 6 and 4-stream support.
What’s the difference between a portable Wi-Fi router and a mobile hotspot?
A portable Wi-Fi router allows more devices to connect and provides stronger security. On the other hand, a mobile hotspot relies on your mobile data, is less secure, and will drain the battery of the device where it’s enabled.
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