10 Best Travel Routers 2026 in the United States

The GL.iNet GL-BE3600 (Slate 7) is a compact and highly portable travel router that fits comfortably in your pocket, making it great for travelers who need reliable internet on the go. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard, offering fast wireless speeds up to nearly 3 Gbps on 5 GHz and decent 2.4 GHz coverage, suitable for streaming, browsing, and work during business trips or vacations. The device includes dual 2.5G Ethernet ports and a USB 3.0 port, which adds flexibility for wired connections and external storage or devices.

One of its standout features is the intuitive touchscreen interface, allowing easy control of Wi-Fi and VPN settings without needing to navigate complicated menus. Security is strong with WPA3 encryption, DNS protection to keep browsing private, and built-in VPN support for safe internet access—ideal for use on public Wi-Fi at hotels or airports. However, the router does not include a built-in battery, so it requires a power source nearby, which might be inconvenient when traveling in places without easy access to outlets.

The OpenWrt firmware offers deep customization options, but this may be overwhelming if you prefer a simple plug-and-play experience. This router is well suited for travelers who prioritize fast, secure connections and advanced control but are okay with carrying an external power adapter.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro is a robust travel router that excels in delivering high-speed internet on the go. With its 5G mmWave technology and WiFi 6E capabilities, it promises impressive performance, allowing you to connect up to 32 devices at once. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for travelers and remote workers who need reliable internet access. The device is unlocked and compatible with major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, making it easy to swap SIM cards as you travel internationally, which is a major plus for frequent flyers. Its touch control interface is user-friendly, making setup and management simple, even for those who might struggle with technology.

While it's great for both travel and home use, the M6 Pro is primarily designed for the US and Canada, which may limit its effectiveness for users outside these regions. Additionally, at 1.45 pounds, it may not be the lightest option available for those looking for ultra-portability.

Battery life and power options are decent, but if you remove the battery and rely on a power adapter, it loses some of its portable appeal. Users should also note that while it offers enhanced security features, using a public WiFi network can still pose risks, so caution is advised.

The GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) is a travel router designed for portability and versatility, making it suitable for various travel scenarios such as cruises, RVs, airplanes, and hotels. Weighing just 6.9 ounces and with dimensions of 4.53 x 3.15 x 1.18 inches, it is easy to carry and does not take up much space in your luggage. Its dual-band Wi-Fi 6 capability offers impressive speeds of up to 574Mbps on 2.4GHz and 2402Mbps on 5GHz, ensuring robust and fast internet connectivity.

Additionally, it comes with a 2.5G multi-gigabit WAN port and a 1G gigabit LAN port for wired connections, adding to its flexibility in different environments. The inclusion of a USB 3.0 port allows for further connectivity options such as attaching storage devices or sharing media. Security is a strong point of the Beryl AX, featuring WPA3 protocol to prevent password brute-force attacks, DNS over HTTPS and TLS to protect data, and IPv6 for enhanced privacy. The pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard support make it easy to use with over 30 VPN service providers, though keep in mind that an active subscription is required.

With a maximum VPN speed of 150 Mbps for OpenVPN and 300 Mbps for WireGuard, it's efficient for secure browsing, though real-world speeds may vary. The router runs on OpenWrt 21.02 firmware, providing access to over 5,000 plug-ins for customization, which can be a bit advanced for some users. Setting up the router is straightforward, with detailed guides available for assistance. The physical toggle switch for enabling/disabling features like AdGuard Home or VPN is convenient but requires initial configuration through the admin panel. One notable omission is the lack of a built-in battery, which means you'll need to have it plugged in to use, potentially limiting its portability in some scenarios.

In conclusion, the GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) offers a compact and powerful solution for travelers needing secure and reliable internet access, though it might be best used in environments where power outlets are readily available.