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10 Best Travel Router For Cruise 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TP-Link Dual-Band AX3000 Wi-Fi 6 Router Archer AX55 | Wireless Gigabit Internet Router for Home | EasyMesh Compatible | VPN Clients & Server | HomeShield, OFDMA, MU-MIMO | USB 3.0 | Secure by Design

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,465
Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
Security Features
Range and Coverage

Most important from
10820 reviews

Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
The TP-Link Archer AX55 Pro takes things to the next level for WiFi 6, significantly boosting speeds for all connected devices.
Security Features
Despite a slower boot time of about 2 minutes, the router is easy to use and supports advanced features like WPA3 security, VPNs, and Alexa.
Range and Coverage
Signal strength is impressive, maintaining a strong connection throughout a 1800 sq. ft. structure with no drops.
Ease of Setup and Use
Setup is simple using the recommended app, though using a cable-connected method to a laptop can provide easier access to detailed settings.

The TP-Link AX3000 WiFi 6 Router, also known as Archer AX55, is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable travel router for a cruise. With its compact size and lightweight design (weighing just 1.66 pounds), it's easy to pack without taking up much space. This router boasts impressive Wi-Fi 6 speeds, reaching up to 2402 Mbps on the 5 GHz band, ensuring quick downloads and smooth streaming—perfect for enjoying entertainment while on board.

One of its key strengths is the extended coverage provided by its four high-gain antennas and Beamforming technology, which helps maintain a strong connection throughout your cabin or common areas. The improved battery life feature is also beneficial, allowing devices to connect without draining power unnecessarily. Additionally, compatibility with various internet service providers makes it versatile for different users.

Security is another highlight, as it comes with TP-Link HomeShield, offering essential security features like device identification and parental controls, which are great for families. The router also supports VPN services, useful for maintaining privacy and security while browsing. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While it is designed for home use, its performance might not be as effective in crowded cruise ship environments where many passengers are using the same network. The setup process, although generally user-friendly, could be daunting for someone not tech-savvy. Lastly, a modem is still required for most internet service providers, which may add complexity when traveling.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,465
Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
Security Features
Range and Coverage

Most important from
10820 reviews

Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
The TP-Link Archer AX55 Pro takes things to the next level for WiFi 6, significantly boosting speeds for all connected devices.
Security Features
Despite a slower boot time of about 2 minutes, the router is easy to use and supports advanced features like WPA3 security, VPNs, and Alexa.
Range and Coverage
Signal strength is impressive, maintaining a strong connection throughout a 1800 sq. ft. structure with no drops.
Ease of Setup and Use
Setup is simple using the recommended app, though using a cable-connected method to a laptop can provide easier access to detailed settings.
#2

GL.iNet GL-BE3600 (Slate 7) Portable Travel Router, Pocket Dual-Band Wi-Fi 7, 2.5G Router, Portable VPN Routers WiFi for Travel, Public Computer Routers, Business Trip, Moblie/RV/Cruise/Plane

Rating
9.6
Portability
Wi-Fi Standards
Security Features

Most important from
456 reviews

Portability
Simplifies connecting multiple devices on the go, eliminating the hassle of reconfiguring Wi-Fi for each new location.
Wi-Fi Standards
Delivers wireless speeds comparable to direct hotspot connections, ensuring no compromise on performance when using repeater mode.
Security Features
VPN integration is seamless, easily handling WireGuard and OpenVPN to bypass network throttling and enhance privacy.
Power Options
Supports various connection modes including repeater, ethernet, cellular, and tethering, providing versatile options for travel scenarios.
Ethernet Ports
Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports future-proof the router for higher speed connections, adding valuable flexibility for wired devices.
Ease of Setup
The touchscreen interface makes setup and network control intuitive, even for those without deep technical knowledge.

The GL.iNet GL-BE3600 Slate 7 is a compact and highly portable travel router, making it a great fit for cruise travelers and anyone needing reliable internet while on the move. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard, offering fast wireless speeds on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, which means you can enjoy smooth browsing and streaming even in crowded network environments like cruise ships or hotels. Dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports add flexibility for wired connections, which is useful if you want a stable connection for devices like laptops or gaming consoles.

Security is a strong point here, with support for WPA3 encryption and advanced features like DNS over HTTPS and TLS, helping protect your data from eavesdropping—a valuable feature when using public or hotel Wi-Fi. The router also supports built-in VPN clients (OpenVPN and WireGuard), allowing you to encrypt your internet traffic easily for added privacy on public networks. The unique touchscreen interface simplifies setup and network control, letting you toggle VPNs and monitor connection status without needing deep technical knowledge.

Power options include multiple international plugs and a USB 3.0 port, adding to its travel-friendliness. The router runs on OpenWrt firmware, which is customizable but might be a bit complex for users who want a simple plug-and-play experience without tweaking settings. The maximum VPN speeds, especially on OpenVPN, might not fully match the router’s high wireless speeds, so VPN performance can vary depending on your subscription and network conditions. Also, while the touchscreen adds convenience, it may take a short learning curve for those less familiar with tech gadgets. The GL.iNet Slate 7 delivers excellent portability, fast and stable Wi-Fi 7 connections, strong security features, and flexible setup options, making it well-suited for cruise travelers and other mobile users who want a secure, high-speed internet connection on the go.

Rating
9.6
Portability
Wi-Fi Standards
Security Features

Most important from
456 reviews

Portability
Simplifies connecting multiple devices on the go, eliminating the hassle of reconfiguring Wi-Fi for each new location.
Wi-Fi Standards
Delivers wireless speeds comparable to direct hotspot connections, ensuring no compromise on performance when using repeater mode.
Security Features
VPN integration is seamless, easily handling WireGuard and OpenVPN to bypass network throttling and enhance privacy.
Power Options
Supports various connection modes including repeater, ethernet, cellular, and tethering, providing versatile options for travel scenarios.
Ethernet Ports
Dual 2.5G Ethernet ports future-proof the router for higher speed connections, adding valuable flexibility for wired devices.
Ease of Setup
The touchscreen interface makes setup and network control intuitive, even for those without deep technical knowledge.
#3

GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) Portable Travel Router, Pocket Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Internet Router, Portable VPN Routers WiFi for Travel, Public Computer Routers, Business, Moblie/RV/Cruise/Plane

Rating
9.4
Size and Portability
Power Source
Wi-Fi Standards and Speed

Most important from
3137 reviews

Size and Portability
Despite its compact size, this router is quite sturdy and reliable, making it a perfect addition to a mobile kit.
Power Source
The device works as promised and is handy for travel, with the ability to run on a power bank for truly wireless networking.
Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
VPN setup can be a bit confusing, but once configured, it works well with minimal speed dips.
Range and Coverage
The router maintains a stable connection, even over multiple days of continuous use.
Ease of Setup and Use
The GL.iNet web interface is intuitive and easy to use, but OpenWRT provides flexibility for more advanced configurations.

The GL.iNet GL-AXT1800 (Slate AX) is a compact and highly portable travel router, making it ideal for cruise travelers. Its pocket-sized design ensures it won’t take up much space in your luggage. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 6 standard, which offers faster and more reliable connections, capable of supporting up to 120 devices simultaneously. This makes it suitable for use in environments with multiple devices like cruises or hotels. The router features dual-band Wi-Fi with combined speeds of up to 1800 Mbps, ensuring smooth streaming and browsing experiences.

Security is well-covered with pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard, which can handle high-speed secure browsing. Additionally, it supports IPv6 and Cloudflare encryption for enhanced privacy. The inclusion of Ethernet ports allows for wired connections, which can be more stable and faster in certain situations. A notable feature is its ability to convert public or hotel Wi-Fi into a secure private network, which is particularly useful for travelers. The router runs on OpenWrt, providing flexibility for customization and the addition of various applications, although this might be more beneficial for users with some technical knowledge.

On the downside, setting up some advanced features might require a bit of a learning curve, especially for those not familiar with networking terms. The need to configure the physical toggle switch via the admin panel before use can be a bit inconvenient. Despite these minor drawbacks, the router's strengths, such as ease of use for basic functions, robust security features, and excellent connectivity, make it a strong choice for travelers needing reliable internet on the go.

Rating
9.4
Size and Portability
Power Source
Wi-Fi Standards and Speed

Most important from
3137 reviews

Size and Portability
Despite its compact size, this router is quite sturdy and reliable, making it a perfect addition to a mobile kit.
Power Source
The device works as promised and is handy for travel, with the ability to run on a power bank for truly wireless networking.
Wi-Fi Standards and Speed
VPN setup can be a bit confusing, but once configured, it works well with minimal speed dips.
Range and Coverage
The router maintains a stable connection, even over multiple days of continuous use.
Ease of Setup and Use
The GL.iNet web interface is intuitive and easy to use, but OpenWRT provides flexibility for more advanced configurations.

Buying Guide for the Best Travel Router For Cruise

When choosing a travel router for a cruise, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you have a reliable and efficient device for your internet needs. A travel router can help you create a secure and stable Wi-Fi network, share internet connections, and connect multiple devices. Here are the key specs to consider and how to choose the best one for your needs.
PortabilityPortability refers to the size and weight of the travel router. This is important because you want a device that is easy to carry around, especially when traveling. Travel routers come in various sizes, from pocket-sized to slightly larger models. If you plan to carry the router in your pocket or a small bag, opt for a compact and lightweight model. If you have more space in your luggage, you can consider a slightly larger model with more features.
Wi-Fi StandardsWi-Fi standards determine the speed and range of the wireless network. The most common standards are 802.11n, 802.11ac, and 802.11ax. 802.11n is suitable for basic internet browsing and email, while 802.11ac offers faster speeds and better performance for streaming and online gaming. 802.11ax, also known as Wi-Fi 6, provides the fastest speeds and best performance, especially in crowded environments. Choose a router with at least 802.11ac for a good balance of speed and range, or 802.11ax if you want the latest technology and best performance.
Frequency BandsFrequency bands refer to the radio frequencies used by the router to transmit data. The two main bands are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band has a longer range but slower speeds, while the 5 GHz band offers faster speeds but a shorter range. Dual-band routers support both frequencies, allowing you to switch between them based on your needs. For a cruise, a dual-band router is ideal as it provides flexibility to choose the best frequency for your environment.
Security FeaturesSecurity features protect your data and devices from unauthorized access. Look for routers that support WPA3 encryption, which is the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. Additionally, features like VPN support and guest networks can enhance your security. If you are concerned about privacy and data protection, prioritize routers with robust security features.
Power OptionsPower options refer to how the router is powered. Some travel routers come with built-in batteries, while others require an external power source such as a USB port or wall outlet. Built-in batteries offer the convenience of using the router without needing to be plugged in, which is useful when moving around the cruise ship. However, routers that can be powered via USB or wall outlets may offer more consistent performance. Consider your power availability and choose a router that matches your needs.
Ethernet PortsEthernet ports allow you to connect wired devices to the router. This can be useful if you have devices that require a stable wired connection or if the cruise ship's internet is provided via an Ethernet cable. Some travel routers come with one or more Ethernet ports, while others may not have any. If you anticipate needing a wired connection, choose a router with at least one Ethernet port.
Ease of SetupEase of setup refers to how simple it is to configure and start using the router. A user-friendly interface and clear instructions can make the setup process quick and hassle-free. Some routers offer mobile apps that guide you through the setup process, while others may have web-based interfaces. If you are not tech-savvy, look for a router that is known for its easy setup and user-friendly design.

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