10 Best Travel Routers 2025 in the United States

The TP-Link Ultra-Portable Wi-Fi 6 AX1500 Travel Router TL-WR1502X is designed for those who need reliable internet access while traveling. It boasts a compact size, making it easy to carry in your bag, which is a significant plus for travelers. With dual-band Wi-Fi capabilities, it can reach speeds of up to 1201 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, providing a strong connection for streaming and gaming. The device supports various modes—like router, access point, and hotspot—which increases its versatility across different settings, whether you're in a hotel, café, or RV.

Security features are robust, allowing you to create a private network even on public connections through the Tether app, simplifying the login process for multiple devices. The option to share files via USB and tether your phone’s data is another practical feature for users on the go.

There are a few limitations to consider. While it can be powered by a power bank via USB Type-C, the lack of support for OpenWRT might limit those who want more customization. Additionally, users looking for a high-end router may find it less suitable for extensive home use, as its primary design focuses on travel scenarios. The TP-Link TL-WR1502X is an excellent option for travelers seeking reliable internet connectivity on the move, though it may fall short for more static, high-demand environments.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 5G Mobile Hotspot is a top choice for travelers and professionals who need reliable internet on the go. One of its standout features is its 5G connectivity, which promises high-speed internet up to 2.5Gbps, making it suitable for streaming, video calls, and heavy workloads. It's designed to connect up to 32 devices simultaneously, which is great for group travel or small offices. Its Wi-Fi 6 standard ensures efficient and fast connections, even in crowded environments.

Portability is another strength. Weighing just 1.3 pounds and with compact dimensions, it fits easily into a bag. The M6 also boasts a long battery life, lasting up to 13 hours on a single charge, ensuring you stay connected during long days out. The color LCD touch screen simplifies setting up and managing your Wi-Fi network, adding to its user-friendliness.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The device is made for use primarily in the US, limiting its effectiveness for international travel unless you have compatible SIM cards. Additionally, while it offers advanced security features, those new to routers may find the initial setup somewhat complex compared to simpler hotspots. The reliance on a battery can be a downside if you're unable to charge it, even though you can use it plugged in without the battery.

The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) is a compact and portable travel router, ideal for those constantly on the go. Weighing just 1.08 pounds and with dimensions of 4.92 x 3.23 x 1.42 inches, it is easy to carry. It excels in connectivity options, offering Ethernet and Type-C connections, making it versatile for both wired and wireless setups. The router supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard (802.11ax), enhancing performance and ensuring fast and reliable internet speeds with a combined speed of up to 1800 Mbps. This makes it capable of handling up to 120 devices simultaneously, which is impressive for its size.

Another strong point is its robust security features, including pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard, supporting a wide range of VPN services to ensure secure browsing. Cloudflare encryption adds an extra layer of privacy protection. The device runs on OpenWrt 21.02, offering customization and the ability to install additional applications as per user needs. For file sharing, it supports NAS with SAMBA and WebDav protocols, allowing you to create a private network for your documents. Additional features like QoS and Guest Mode enhance its functionality.

However, it lacks a built-in battery, which may be a drawback for users looking for extended use without a power source. The physical toggle switch for quickly enabling VPN or AdGuard Home is handy, though it requires initial setup. The router's capability to convert public or hotel Wi-Fi into a secure private network is a significant advantage when traveling. The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) is a powerful travel router, offering excellent performance, security, and versatility for travelers, with the main limitation being the absence of a built-in battery.