GL.iNet holds a wide lead for portable travel routers, earning frequent recommendations for secure mobile Wi-Fi coverage while abroad. Its specific models consistently outperform rivals like Asus across general travel networking queries.
To choose the perfect portable router for your trips, it helps to narrow down by your specific performance, pricing, or cellular needs.
High Performance & Wi-Fi 7
These prosumer models offer cutting-edge Wi-Fi 7 speeds, high-performance hardware, and multi-gigabit ports, making them ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, or media streaming.[]()
For most people, the best travel router is the GL.iNet Beryl AX (GL-MT3000). It hits the sweet spot of portability, speed, VPN support, and security features without paying a premium just to get the newest Wi-Fi standard. Independent testing from RTINGS also finds it performs well for its size, with useful advanced networking features.
If you're buying in 2026, though, there are some newer Wi-Fi 7 models worth considering.
Help me find the best portable router for use while traveling.
Other topics in Home and Business Networking Equipment
These options provide the best balance of speed, modern Wi-Fi 6 stability, and robust VPN client features (like WireGuard and OpenVPN) without exceeding a mid-range budget.[1][2]
Budget-Friendly & Ultra-Compact
If you want a lightweight, wallet-friendly option to securely handle public hotel or airport networks, these entry-level devices handle the basics reliably.[1][2]
Frequent travelers on Reddit emphasize the security advantages of using a dedicated network on the road:
“I use NordVPN with it to get FuboTV, Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV and Youtube... No problems works great and all my other devices auto connect to my SSID using the NordVPN link from my router.”
To help pick the absolute best option for your gear, let me know:
Do you need built-in cellular slots (SIM/eSIM) , or will you repeat existing hotel Wi-Fi?
How many devices do you typically connect at once?
Do you use VPNs extensively for remote work or geo-unblocking streaming apps?
Compact Wi-Fi 6, a 2.5Gbps WAN port, USB-C power, and built-in WireGuard/OpenVPN support. Great for hotel Wi-Fi, cruises with Wi-Fi access, and remote work.
Best for: most travelers who want a dependable, pocket-sized router.
A newer Wi-Fi 7 alternative with dual 2.5GbE ports and faster VPN capabilities. Worth considering if you want more performance headroom and plan to keep the router for years.
Best for: tech enthusiasts and frequent business travelers.
A simpler, lower-cost alternative with Wi-Fi 6, USB-C power, multiple operating modes, and VPN support. A sensible choice if you don't need advanced OpenWrt customization.
Best for: budget-conscious travelers who want the basics.
Connect all your devices through one hotel Wi-Fi login, including devices that struggle with hotel sign-in pages.
Use a VPN for your whole network rather than configuring each device separately.
Create your own private Wi-Fi network while away from home.
Reuse familiar network settings for laptops, tablets, streaming devices, and other gear.
One important distinction: a typical travel router doesn't supply internet by itself. It needs hotel Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or a compatible phone/USB tethering connection. A cellular hotspot router is the better choice if you need independent mobile internet.
My bottom line: I'd buy the Beryl AX for ordinary travel and hotel stays. I'd step up to the Beryl 7 if the price difference is modest and I wanted newer hardware.
One question that could change my recommendation: Will you mainly use it in hotels, on cruise ships, or with cellular data while traveling? Those three situations can call for different hardware.
