For digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers, having a reliable internet connection isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. Whether you’re conducting video calls, uploading large files, or managing projects, a weak or unstable connection can derail productivity and cause unnecessary stress. Fortunately, there are several practical strategies to improve internet reliability while on the move.
1. Research Your Destination in Advance
Before booking accommodation or arriving in a new country, investigate the average internet speed in your target destination. Websites like Nomad List or Speedtest Global Index offer real-time data and user reviews about connectivity in various cities around the world. Also, check expat or digital nomad forums to get updated, location-specific advice.
2. Choose Accommodation with Proven Wi-Fi Quality
When booking through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or other travel sites, filter listings based on Wi-Fi availability and read recent reviews to see if past guests mention the quality of the internet. Some hosts now list internet speed test results. If not, don’t hesitate to request one before confirming your stay.
3. Use a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
Travel with a portable Wi-Fi hotspot (also known as a MiFi device). These gadgets allow you to create your own secure Wi-Fi network using local SIM cards or global data plans. They are especially useful in remote areas or locations where public internet access is limited or unreliable.
4. Get a Local SIM Card with Data
One of the most affordable and effective ways to ensure reliable internet is to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Most countries offer prepaid data plans that are fast, inexpensive, and tailored for tourists. Use the SIM in your phone or in a portable router to create a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot.
5. Invest in a Global Roaming Plan
If you frequently change countries and don’t want to buy a new SIM each time, consider using global SIM cards or eSIM services like Airalo, Nomad eSIM, or Google Fi. These services offer coverage in multiple countries and allow you to switch data plans without changing physical SIM cards.
6. Carry a Signal Booster or Travel Router
A travel router can help you extend and stabilize Wi-Fi in hotel rooms or shared spaces. It can also allow you to connect multiple devices to a single network and add an extra layer of security. In areas with weak signal, a mobile signal booster can sometimes amplify cellular reception for better internet access.
7. Work During Off-Peak Hours
If you’re working in a shared accommodation or a café, internet speeds may dip during peak usage times. Try scheduling video meetings or heavy upload/download tasks during early mornings or late evenings when fewer people are online.
8. Download Essential Files for Offline Use
To avoid unexpected issues during crucial tasks, download essential files ahead of time. Tools like Google Drive, Dropbox, and Notion allow offline access to documents and notes. You can work uninterrupted and sync your progress once you’re back online.
9. Use Ethernet When Possible
If you’re staying in a place with wired internet access, take advantage of the stability that comes with using an Ethernet connection. Carry a lightweight Ethernet adapter (especially if your laptop lacks a port) to plug in directly and bypass any spotty Wi-Fi.
10. Have a Backup Plan
Always have a plan B. Know where the nearest coworking spaces, libraries, or cafés with solid internet are located. Save these locations on your maps app, and keep a list handy in case your main connection fails at a critical moment.
Maintaining strong internet while traveling as a digital nomad requires a mix of planning, flexibility, and having the right tools on hand. With a few smart strategies, you can stay connected wherever your journey takes you.