When globetrotting or setting sail, seamless internet access across multiple devices often feels like a luxury. But with a pocket travel router, you can enjoy uninterrupted connectivity without the hassle of connecting each device individually. Let’s explore the magic of the pocket router, why it’s a game-changer for travelers, and how it can save you both time and money.
The Birth of a Practical Travel Companion
Dave Plummer, a retired Microsoft engineer, discovered the need for a travel router during his vacations, where staying connected was essential. Back in the ‘90s, getting online on a cruise ship meant battling slow, expensive dial-up connections. Today, things have improved thanks to innovations like Starlink, which now powers high-speed internet for many cruises. But even with these advancements, getting everyone connected on a shared network can still be tricky and costly.
Why a Travel Router is a Must-Have
Hotels and cruise ships often charge per device for internet access, limiting the number of simultaneous connections. This setup can make it challenging for families, where each member has multiple devices. Here’s where a pocket router steps in—it takes a single internet connection and shares it with multiple devices through a private Wi-Fi network. So whether it’s your phone, laptop, or even streaming devices like Apple TV, everyone can stay connected with ease.
The AXT1800 Pocket Router: A Smart Solution
One standout model, the AXT1800 from GL.iNet, combines portability with functionality. This compact device supports Wi-Fi 6 and includes LAN ports, allowing it to create a stable, secure Wi-Fi network from various sources—whether public Wi-Fi, ethernet, or even by tethering to a mobile device. Setup is simple: connect the router to any available internet source, and it’s ready to serve multiple devices. With its small size, this router fits easily in your pocket, making it ideal for travelers seeking to stay connected on the go.
Fun Fact:
The AXT1800 router can support up to 150 devices—a remarkable feat for such a compact gadget!
Overcoming Common Challenges in Hotels and Cruise Ships
One of the biggest challenges of connecting devices like Apple TVs or game consoles to hotel Wi-Fi is bypassing the “captive portal.” This login page requires you to accept terms before accessing the internet, but most streaming devices lack a browser to complete this step. With a pocket router, you can connect your device through its private network without needing to log in every time. Plus, it tricks the hotel or cruise network into recognizing just one device, even if you have multiple connected.
The Power of VPN for Added Security
An added bonus of the AXT1800 router is its VPN compatibility. Whether you’re in a hotel or a coffee shop, connecting your travel router to a VPN offers a secure connection that protects your data. Additionally, by connecting the router itself to a VPN, every device on the network benefits, including streaming devices. This feature can also be invaluable for accessing region-locked content, such as U.S. streaming services while abroad.
Extra Tip:
If privacy is a concern, you can set up an OpenVPN server at home and link the travel router to it. This way, all internet traffic goes through your home network, as if you were browsing from your own living room!
Setting Up Your Travel Router
Setting up the travel router is straightforward. Just follow these steps:
- Connect the router to an internet source (Wi-Fi, LAN, or your mobile hotspot).
- Access the router’s private network on your devices.
- Use your laptop or smartphone to accept any captive portal login if needed.
- Enable VPN if you want additional security and privacy.
This router’s design ensures that everyone connected to its network enjoys stable internet access, making it the perfect tool for modern travelers.
Saving on Data and Expanding Connectivity Options
For just around $100, the AXT1800 provides a practical, reliable, and cost-effective internet solution. Unlike typical hotel or cruise ship charges, which often require separate plans for each device, a single pocket router offers a more affordable and seamless option. Whether you’re streaming Netflix from your cabin, FaceTiming family from the road, or sending work emails from your hotel room, this device gives you flexibility and convenience.
Check on YouTube
Final Thoughts
A travel router like the AXT1800 is an invaluable tool for anyone who wants reliable, secure, and unlimited internet access while traveling. It’s compact, easy to set up, and offers enhanced connectivity options to cover all your devices. With the added benefits of VPN integration and captive portal bypassing, a pocket router might just be the best travel companion you never knew you needed.