Staying connected while traveling is essential for digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travelers. Whether working from a café, taking a video call in an airport lounge, or uploading content from a remote destination, reliable internet access is a priority. Finding strong and secure Wi-Fi can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to stay connected anywhere.
Here’s how to ensure a stable internet connection while traveling.
Plan Ahead with Connectivity Research
Before arriving at a new destination, researching Wi-Fi availability can save time and frustration. Some cities and countries have excellent public Wi-Fi networks, while others may require backup options.
How to Research Wi-Fi in Advance:
- Check Coworking Spaces – Websites like Coworker list coworking spaces worldwide, many offering high-speed internet.
- Look at Online Reviews – Google Maps and TripAdvisor reviews often mention Wi-Fi speed at cafés and hotels.
- Search Digital Nomad Forums – Communities on Reddit, Facebook, and Nomad List share Wi-Fi recommendations for different locations.
- Check Airbnb and Hotel Listings – Hosts sometimes provide internet speed tests in their descriptions or upon request.
A little preparation can prevent the hassle of arriving at a destination with poor connectivity.
Use a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Portable Wi-Fi hotspots provide internet access in locations where public Wi-Fi is unreliable or unavailable. These compact devices connect to cellular networks and create a personal Wi-Fi signal for laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Popular Portable Hotspot Options:
- Skyroam Solis – Offers global coverage with flexible daily and monthly plans.
- GlocalMe G4 Pro – Works in over 140 countries with pay-as-you-go data.
- NOMAD Internet – A solid option for U.S. travelers needing consistent remote work access.
Pairing a portable Wi-Fi device with local or international data plans ensures a seamless connection across multiple destinations.
Buy a Local SIM Card or eSIM
For travelers staying in a country for an extended period, a local SIM card or eSIM is often the most cost-effective way to get reliable internet.
Why Choose a Local SIM or eSIM?
- Faster and More Affordable Data – Local providers typically offer better speeds than roaming services.
- Flexibility – Choose between prepaid or monthly plans.
- Works with Mobile Hotspot Tethering – Share data with a laptop or other devices.
How to Get a SIM Card or eSIM:
- Purchase a local SIM card at airports, convenience stores, or official carrier shops upon arrival.
- Use Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad eSIM for an instant digital SIM without needing a physical card.
- Research the best mobile carriers for each destination to find the most reliable coverage.
A dual-SIM smartphone makes switching between SIM cards easy without removing your primary number.
Find Reliable Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is widely available in many destinations, but its quality varies. Knowing where to find strong and secure connections helps digital nomads stay online when needed.
Best Places to Find Public Wi-Fi:
- Coworking Spaces – Designed for remote workers and often offer the fastest and most stable connections.
- Cafés and Coffee Shops – Many chain cafés like Starbucks, Costa, and local coffee spots provide free Wi-Fi.
- Libraries – Public libraries typically offer free internet access with quiet workspaces.
- Hotels and Airbnbs – Some accommodations provide high-speed internet, but always check reviews beforehand.
- Airports and Train Stations – Many transportation hubs have free Wi-Fi, though speeds may be inconsistent.
Before connecting, ask staff or locals about the best Wi-Fi spots in the area.
Use a VPN for Security
Public Wi-Fi networks, especially in airports, cafés, and hotels, can be vulnerable to cyber threats. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts internet traffic, protecting sensitive information like passwords and financial data.
Benefits of Using a VPN:
- Secures Online Transactions – Prevents hackers from accessing personal data.
- Avoids Geo-Restrictions – Helps access blocked websites or streaming services.
- Prevents Data Throttling – Stops internet providers from slowing down speeds based on usage.
Popular VPN services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark provide strong security for remote workers traveling internationally.
Test Internet Speed Before Committing
Not all Wi-Fi networks are equal. Running an internet speed test before settling into a workspace helps avoid frustrating slow connections.
How to Test Wi-Fi Speed:
- Use apps like Speedtest by Ookla or Fast.com to measure download and upload speeds.
- Look for at least 10-20 Mbps download speed for general work and 25+ Mbps for video calls.
- Check the upload speed (important for sending large files and clear video conferencing).
Some coworking spaces and cafés advertise their speeds, but always verify before starting an important task.
Have a Backup Plan
Even with careful planning, unexpected internet outages happen. Having alternative solutions ensures productivity isn’t disrupted.
Reliable Backup Options:
- Work During Off-Peak Hours – Internet is often faster when fewer people are using it.
- Use Offline Productivity Tools – Google Docs, Notion, and Evernote allow offline editing.
- Download Important Files in Advance – Prevents delays when access is limited.
- Find 24/7 Coworking Spaces – Some locations offer round-the-clock access in case of emergencies.
A combination of multiple connectivity options helps digital nomads stay productive no matter where they are.
Staying Online Anywhere in the World
Finding and maintaining a strong internet connection while traveling requires a mix of preparation, smart technology, and backup strategies. With portable hotspots, local SIM cards, coworking spaces, and VPN protection, remote workers can stay connected no matter where their journey takes them.
By choosing destinations with reliable internet infrastructure and keeping alternative solutions on hand, digital nomads can work seamlessly from anywhere in the world.