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The 8 Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

771 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

31 Published Articles 3102 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

What Is a Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot?

Things to look for in a mobile wi-fi hotspot, frequencies explained: the difference between gsm and cdma, 1. keep in touch wherever you are using the glocalme 4g lte network, 2. rapid download speeds and superfast internet on the go, 3. best for professionals who need to keep connected, 4. global data roaming and mobile coverage in over 100 countries, 5. a powerful global wi-fi hotspot for use in over 160 countries, 6. compact and capable offering 18 hours of battery life, 7. superfast connectivity in over 135 countries, 8. connect 10 wi-fi enabled devices with this verizon jetpack, final thoughts.

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Whether you want to update your Insta on the go or need to keep in touch with the office, losing your internet signal can be very frustrating.

But it’s annoying (and can be unsafe) to rely on public Wi-Fi signals in every coffee shop you visit, and sometimes when traveling to remote locations, public connections are just not available.

Instead, you can invest in a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to ensure safe, secure, and reliable internet access anywhere you go. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best one for you.

A Wi-Fi hotspot is a battery-powered wireless router that travels with you. Designed to be compact and lightweight enough to slip into your purse or pocket, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot device brings the internet to your phone, tablet, or laptop, no matter where in the world it finds you.

These gadgets are a big bonus for anyone traveling away from public Wi-Fi or those looking for a secure connection. A bit like a cellular device, your Wi-Fi hotspot provides access to invisible signals in the sky, all of which can help you to upload pics or receive your emails on the move.

You will need to pay for the data you use, which can be done in the form of packages or day passes that offer unlimited access for a set period of time.

Bottom Line: Using 3G or 4G (and maybe even 5G in the coming months), these smart little devices emit a reliable and incredibly useful Wi-Fi signal that you can hook your favorite gadgets and devices to while away from home.

Battery Life

Most batteries will run happily for between 5-6 hours at a time. If you are traveling somewhere with easy access to electricity, you should be able to charge overnight to ensure your hotspot works when you need it for your daily adventures. If you spend a disproportionately large amount of time online, you may want to look at a device that offers a longer battery life.

Size and Weight

Your Wi-Fi hotspot should be small enough to be carried everywhere with you. After all, if it’s not entirely portable, what exactly is the point? Slimline, lightweight, and often smaller than the smartphone you are trying to connect to, these devices are compact and clever.

Wi-Fi Support

Because some mobile internet providers are better than others, the coverage you receive from any Wi-Fi hotspot can also vary. For example, 2.4GHz gives coverage at a more extended range but will transmit the data at a much slower speed. A 5GHz band, on the other hand, will provide less range with data transmitted at a much faster speed.

Though they may be small, they are still mighty, and most hotspot devices will have a built-in display. At the very least, the display should indicate remaining battery life and current Wi-Fi signal strength. Others may offer bonus features like SMS messages or touch screen modes.

Card Reader

Some portable Wi-Fi hotspots come with the capability to read MicroSD memory cards, which can be used to store and access files from your laptop or home computer. You can also share your stored files with the people who use your network when you want them to have access.

MicroSD memory cards are not typically included with the purchase of a Wi-Fi hotspot, but they are a useful addition that allows you to send and receive SMS messages and save images, music, and other data-heavy files.

Mobile data is delivered using 1 of 2 types of cellular signals in different countries and regions around the world. These cellular standards allow for communication between individuals; without them, we would not be able to keep in touch on such a global scale.

Known as GSM and CDMA, each standard converts both incoming and outgoing radio waves in entirely different ways. Before you buy a hotspot, you need to understand its function and where you’ll be able to use it.

Global System for Mobile Communication is used in most countries around the world. In the U.S., only AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. GSM uses Time Division Multiple Access (or TDMA), which allocates time slots to multiple conversation streams and alters how phones transmit their information. Doing this requires a SIM card (or “subscriber identification module” card).

It is the SIM card that holds all the information you need to make calls, use mobile internet, and store your contacts. The SIM card tells the device what services you have access to and is vital for GSM communications on the go.

CDMA is used in countries including Russia and the U.S. ( Sprint , Verizon , and US Cellular), and it grants users full access to a wide spectrum of bandwidth, meaning more users can connect at any one time. It also encodes each signal, meaning that every conversation remains protected and filtered.

CDMA does not rely on SIM cards as the device has the technology built into it from the carriers’ networks. This once meant that if you wanted to change carriers, you would need to buy a new device altogether. These days though, many CDMA devices offer the capability to use a SIM card too, especially for those on LTE networks.

Bottom Line: Different countries (and different carriers) use different technologies. In the U.S., Sprint, Verizon, and US Cellular use CDMA, while AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. When it comes to purchasing a hotspot, make sure you understand what type you’re buying, what countries it will work in, and what providers it will function with.

The 8 Best Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel

Glocalme g4 4g lte mobile hotspot.

With a global SIM-free connection, you can quickly and easily access the internet without worrying about a local SIM card or roaming charges. The 4G LTE high-speed network connects up to 10 devices at a time. Enjoy 50Mbps upload speeds and an innovative GlocalMe app that uses a dedicated security protocol to ensure your Wi-Fi connection is always safe.

You can also easily manage your data usage from anywhere in the world. With an initial 1GB of data included to see you on your way, you can easily top up your data using the GlocalMe app, which is specifically designed to work in a variety of different countries and regions.

Bottom Line: With 1 SIM card slot and the ability to connect to unlocked Wi-Fi hotspots wherever you are, the G4 will provide you with up to 12 hours of nonstop usage from a single charge.

Huawei E5577Cs-321 4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

Huawei’s Wi-FI hotspot is both affordable and reliable — and it’s good enough to give some of the more prominent brand alternatives a real run for their money.

This hotspot offers rapid download speeds of up to 150 Mbps 4G LTE and 43.2 Mbps 3G download , connection for up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices, 6 hours of working time, and a whopping 300 hours of standby time.

Bottom Line: The TFT-LCD screen with 2D Barcode secure connection is easy to use, and the device itself is unlocked for all networks — you can even choose your SIM card if you want to.

Huawei  E5576-320  4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Router

This high-speed mobile router and multi-mode wireless terminal is for use in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The hotspot offers 16 Wi-Fi connections at a time, and the unlocked carrier connection means you can use 3G signals from any provider. Controllable via the innovative Huawei Mobile Wi-Fi app, you can enjoy uploads and connectivity for up to 6 hours using the 1500 mAh battery.

Bottom Line: While this device model will not work in the Americas or the United States, it is an affordable solution for those traveling to other parts of the world.

Keepgo Global Lifetime 4G/LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot for Europe, Asia, & the Americas

The Keepgo MiFi device includes a pay-as-you-go SIM card that comes complete with 1GB of global data roaming, and extra data can easily be obtained on the go.

This Wi-Fi hotspot can connect up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices at a time . Offering mobile internet coverage in 105 different countries, you can enjoy up to 6 hours of battery time and over 300 hours of standby time on 1 charge.

Bottom Line: You’ll appreciate this device’s instant online activation that will have you browsing straight out of the box.

RoamWiFi 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot Router

The RoamWiFi Mobile Router is a powerful global Wi-Fi hotspot with super-fast 4G LTE speeds that can be used in over 160 different countries and shared to 5 connections. Sleek and stylish, the simple orange hotspot can be stored in your carry-on luggage and will be easy to find when you get there.

By far, the most impressive feature of this particular model is the whopping 18 hours of battery life . 500MB of data can be purchased for as little as $2.90 per day.

Bottom Line: All-in-all, this is a tremendous little Wi-Fi hotspot for your next adventure.

Netgear Unite Explore AC815S Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

This slim 4G LTE-capable device provides super-fast internet and as much as 18 hours of battery life on a single charge to as many as 15 Wi-Fi devices on the go.

Super easy to use, the color LCD screen shows you all the network info you need, as well as displaying battery life and connectivity levels.

Bottom Line: Made by one of the most trusted names in communications, the Unite Explore is a reliable Wi-Fi hotspot for travelers looking for longer battery life.

SIMO Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot

With no contract or SIM card required, this convenient little device will ensure you’re always connected on the go. The virtual SIM technology is compatible with most major carriers, and you can control everything through the handy Solis WiFi app.

You can connect up to 10 different devices with up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. As well as keeping you connected, this mobile hotspot doubles up as a power bank, so you’ll never run out of charge.

Bottom Line: With SIMO Solis, users can enjoy day pass Wi-Fi, pay as you go access by gigabyte, or monthly and yearly subscriptions.

Verizon MiFi Jetpack 4620L

Brought to you by the communication experts at Verizon, this MiFi Jetpack offers superior connectivity and speedy internet access virtually anywhere in the world. With the ability to connect up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices in 4G and up to 5 devices in 3G, this is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

Compatible with all major operating systems including Windows, Mac OSX, Android, and iOS, you can quickly and easily connect your phone, tablet, or laptop. The interactive OLED display shows you when you are connected, as well as the connection status and how many users are connected. It can even alert you when you receive a new SMS message.

Bottom Line: With up to 5 hours of usage available from a single charge, this impressive MiFi mobile Wi-Fi device is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

With a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, you are no longer at the mercy of unsecured, cumbersome, and often super-slow public Wi-Fi signals when you take to the road. Your very own Wi-Fi allows you to download data, upload images, and keep in touch with civilization, no matter how far away you go.

Before you commit to a connection, look for a mobile Wi-Fi device that is compact and portable with a large enough battery to last you all day. Your new Wi-Fi hotspot should also be simple to use, easy to connect to, and ideally able to offer a connection to several different devices (especially if you’re traveling with friends).

Lastly, don’t miss these other tech-related product reviews to level up your travel game!

• The Best Portable Bluetooth Speakers for Travel
• What are the Best GoPro Alternatives? [10+ Options]
• The Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel
• Travel Product Reviews – Tech & Photography Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best mobile wi-fi hotspot for travelers.

Our vote is for the GlocalMe G4 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot.

Do mobile hotspots work internationally?

Many mobile hotspots do work internationally, but this would depend on what plan your device is on. Many plans include a set amount of international data, while others offer unlimited usage for a set fee.

Can mobile hotspot replace home Wi-Fi?

Although mobile hotspots can be used in place of home Wi-Fi, it usually carries higher usage costs. If you are a heavy downloader or video streamer, you would likely be better off registering for a home Wi-Fi service.

Which is better Wi-Fi or hotspot?

Hotspots usually offer slower speeds and less security than Wi-Fi; however, it is convenient if you’re on the move, and there are no guarantees that you will be able to access a Wi-Fi connection.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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World’s 30 Best Travel Destinations, Ranked

Best places to visit in the world.

The ultimate ranking of travel destinations aims to solve a serious problem: so many places to visit, so little time.

But even in a world with a trillion destinations, some manage to stand out and rise to the top. From the sleek skyscrapers of Dubai to the emerald-green waters of the Bora Bora lagoon, you’re sure to find at least one vacation that piques your interest (and likely several!).

These are the 30 best places to visit in the world. Which ones have you already been to? And which ones stoke your wanderlust most?

30. Argentine Patagonia

In this region of the Andes, you’ll find glaciers, evergreen trees, deep blue lakes and clear skies everywhere you look. For a trip full of adventure and discovery, there are few better destinations on the planet.

No trip is complete without a visit to the craggy Mount Fitz Roy, the historic (and mysterious) Cave of the Hands, the Punta Tombo wildlife preserve, the Peninsula Valdes marine wildlife refuge and the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier. Be sure to bring your camera and your sense of wonder.

* Rankings are based on U.S. News & World Report's " World's Best Places to Visit ," traveler ratings as well as our own editorial input.

What to Know Before You Go to Argentine Patagonia

Where to stay: Cyan Soho Neuquen Hotel

Hot tip: Since springtime occurs in the southern hemisphere in October and November, those months are your best bet when planning a trip.

Fun fact: The largest dinosaur fossils ever unearthed were found in Argentine Patagonia. They belong to the largest-known titanosaur, believed to have weighed about 83 tons. 

Note: We may earn money from affiliate partners if you buy through links on our site.

29. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Set in the Sorrentina Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast has long been renowned for its natural beauty and idyllic coastal towns. During the golden age of Hollywood, it was a preferred vacation spot for glamorous movie stars.

Days here are spent eating Italian food, drinking wine and walking around colorful cobblestone streets. You can also expect to drink copious amounts of wine as you look out into the Mediterranean Sea.

The best way to see the coast is to rent a car and then drive to different towns each day.

What to Know Before You Go to the Amalfi Coast

Where to stay: Hotel Marina Riviera

Hot tip:  If you're planning on using a beach chair to work on your tan, make sure you wake up early, as they are usually first come, first served.

Fun fact:  The Amalfi Coast is featured in Sofia Loren's 1995 Film, "Scandal in Sorrento."

28. Cancun, Mexico

For years, Cancun has been the preferred getaway for East Coast Americans (particularly Floridians) who want an international getaway that's still close to home. But despite the droves of tourists, the area has managed to keep the charm that attracted people in the first place.

The city is known mostly for its luxury hotels, wild nightlife and warm beaches. Definitely indulge in all of these — as well as the Mexican food! — but also consider other activities like visiting Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes and snorkeling. One thing is certain: You won't run out of things to do in Cancun .

What to Know Before You Go to Cancun

Where to stay: Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hot tip:  While you're in Cancun, make a plan to visit one of Grupo Xcaret's six eco-tourism parks, with the best ones being Xcaret and Xelha. The Mexican-owned company is credited with starting the eco-tourism trend in the Yucatan Peninsula, and the parks offer incredible and varied local experiences.

Fun fact:  The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, was the cultural, political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. Many locals have Mayan ancestry and Mayan continues to be widely spoken in the area.

27. San Francisco, California

Everyone should visit San Francisco at least once in their lives. Though tech companies grab all the headlines these days, it remains down-to-earth, diverse and packed with things to do.

Where to start? No matter your style, you’ll want to check out the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge, see the sunbathing sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the historic prison Alcatraz and relax in one of the city’s many parks, especially Dolores Park for its epic people-watching on the weekends. 

For dinner, treat your tastebuds and make a reservation at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in the Bay Area .

What to Know Before You Go to San Francisco

Where to stay: The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square

Hot tip: Want similarly beautiful landscapes and rich cultural attractions, but at lower prices and with (slightly) fewer crowds? Head to Oakland just across the Bay Bridge, named one of the most exciting places on earth to travel by National Geographic. 

Fun fact: The fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by a Japanese resident. Random!

26. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world . The power with which water storms down cliffs on the border between the United States and Canada has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. 

This natural wonder is comprised of three awe-inspiring falls. One of the best ways to experience them is on a boat tour.

What to Know Before You Go to Niagara Falls

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls

Hot tip: There is some debate about which side of the falls is better, but the general verdict is that the Canadian side offers better views. This is because you can (ironically) get a better view of the American Falls as well as get up close to Horseshoe Falls. 

Fun fact:  Established in 1885, Niagara Falls State Park is the oldest state park in the U.S.

25. Yellowstone National Park

Located mostly in Wyoming as well as Montana and Idaho, Yellowstone is America’s first national park and remains one of the most popular in the country, welcoming more than around 3.3 million people in 2022. With unpredictable geysers, rainbow-colored hot springs, craggy peaks, shimmering lakes and tons of wildlife — from elk to boars to bison — it’s easy to see why so many people flock here. 

The park makes for an awesome family trip and is well-suited to budget travelers since it offers so many campsites ( over 2,000! ). 

What to Know Before You Go to Yellowstone

Where to stay: Stage Coach Inn

Hot tip: You’ll never fully beat the crowds at this wildly popular park, but April, May, September and November are your best bets for finding some solitude.  

Fun fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.  

24. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

As the largest reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef is home to thousands of marine species. This makes it a paradise for scuba diving or snorkeling. 

The reef system is truly gigantic, with over 600 islands and about 2,900 individual reefs. This is one of Australia's greatest prides, but it's also a planetary national treasure. Seeing it with your own two eyes is an experience that is incredible beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to the Great Barrier Reef

Where to stay: Crystalbrook Flynn

Hot tip: Though going underwater to see the reef is a must, we also recommend booking a helicopter tour to experience the magic of it from above.

Fun fact:  Made of corals, which are animals that live in collectives, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on the planet.

23. Santorini, Greece

With its picturesque blue-domed churches, whitewashed buildings and colorful beaches, the island of Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. If you want to snap photos to post to Instagram and make everyone back home jealous, this is the place to go. 

Also make sure to experience some of Santorini’s archaeologically significant sites, like Ancient Akrotiri (an ancient city preserved by volcanic ash) and Ancient Thera (where humans lived as early as the 9th century BC). And don’t forget to visit the smaller islands that surround it, including Thirassia, Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni. 

What to Know Before You Go to Santorini

Where to stay: Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Santorini

Hot tip: To optimize your vacation, visit in September and October or April and May — when the weather is still warm, but there aren’t as many other tourists milling around.

Fun fact: While it’s difficult to prove, locals like to say there’s more wine than water on this island where it hardly rains (and vino abounds).

22. Florence, Italy

For art and history buffs (and anyone who appreciates delicious Italian food), Florence is a must-visit city. 

As the birthplace of the Renaissance, it’s home to some of the most iconic artworks by the world’s premier artists throughout history — Michaelangelo, Brunelleschi and Donatello, just to name a few. In addition to art museums and architectural wonders, Florence is also home to chic shops, quaint cafes and spectacular gardens. 

What to Know Before You Go to Florence

Where to stay:  NH Collection Firenze Porta Rossa

Hot tip: Keep Florence in mind if you want to spend your honeymoon in Europe without spending a fortune, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Fun fact: The city’s famed “El Duomo” cathedral took over 140 years to build .

21. Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite, one of the most-visited national parks in America with more than 4 million annual guests, encompasses 750,000 acres of wilderness just waiting to be explored.

It’s home to scenic waterfalls, like the 317-foot Vernal Fall and the 617-foot Bridalveil Fall, as well as iconic rock formations like El Capitan and Half Dome, two popular spots for the world’s best rock climbers to test their mettle.

Not surprisingly, the wildlife here also impresses. Dozens of species of butterflies, marmots, bobcats and mule deer are just some of the animals that call Yosemite home. And keep your eyes peeled for black bears; some 300 to 500 roam the park . 

What to Know Before You Go to Yosemite

Where to stay:  The Ahwahnee

Hot tip: Summer can get really busy here, so if you want to camp, be sure to book a spot early. Want to beat Yosemite’s notoriously bad traffic? Ditch the car and take advantage of the park’s extensive free bus system.

Fun fact: This is one of the only places in the country where you can catch a moonbow — like a rainbow, but created by the light of the moon instead of the sun. 

20. St. Lucia

Whether you’re visiting on a cruise ship or just relaxing at an all-inclusive resort or boutique hotel, stunning St. Lucia is a clear winner. This Caribbean island offers diverse terrain for vacationers, from its pristine beaches to its lush rainforests to its volcanic peaks, the Pitons, that loom over the landscape. 

Adrenaline-junkies love hiking, climbing and zip-lining, while newlyweds (and soon-to-be-married couples) enjoy the romantic mix of fine dining, adults-only resorts and exotic activities. 

What to Know Before You Go to St. Lucia

Where to stay: Rabot Hotel From Hotel Chocolat

Hot tip: Visit when temperatures are moderate, which is typically in May and June.

Fun fact: St. Lucia is the only country named after a woman: Christian martyr Saint Lucia of Syracuse.

19. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Everything is bigger and better in Dubai, home to one of the world’s largest shopping malls, tallest towers, largest man-made marinas — and the list goes on. 

This Las Vegas-like urban center in the United Arab Emirates has an eclectic mix of activities for visitors to enjoy, including beaches, waterparks, tons of shopping and even an indoor ski resort. Outside the skyscraper-filled city, the vast desert awaits, best enjoyed via quad-biking or sandboarding.

What to Know Before You Go to Dubai

Where to stay:  Five Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Hot tip: Though you’re likely to pay a pretty penny for a trip to Dubai no matter when you visit, you can save a little cash by visiting during the scalding-hot summer months and by booking your hotel room two to three months in advance.

Fun fact: Dubai’s man-made Palm Islands were constructed using enough imported sand to fill up 2.5 Empire State Buildings . 

18. Machu Picchu, Peru

Many travelers describe their visit to Machu Picchu as life-changing. Why? It’s an archaeological wonder, the remains of an ancient Incan city dating back more than 600 years. No wonder this is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most-visited attraction in all of Peru. 

Be sure to visit significant sites like Funerary Rock, where it’s believed Incan nobility were mummified, and Temple of the Condor, a rock temple sculpted to look like the impressive bird in its name.  

What to Know Before You Go to Machu Picchu

Where to stay: Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Hot tip: If you’re planning a trip, be sure to get your ticket in advance, as only 2,500 people can visit Machu Picchu each day. (And a lot of people have this destination on their bucket list.)

Fun fact: The site contains more than 100 separate flights of stairs . 

17. Sydney, Australia

With its iconic Opera House and lively Bondi Beach, Sydney is the perfect spot to vacation if you’re looking for a blend of culture, arts, nightlife and relaxation. 

Spend the day on the water at Darling Harbour, then head to the Royal Botanic garden for even more fresh air. Want to travel like a local? Get a ticket to a rugby match and order a Tim Tam, a popular chocolate-covered cookie that pairs well with coffee. 

What to Know Before You Go to Sydney

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney

Hot tip: You can make your trip more affordable by visiting during Sydney’s shoulder seasons, which are typically September through November and March through May.

Fun fact: In 2007, Bondi Beach was the site of the largest ever swimsuit photoshoot ; 1,010 bikini-clad women participated, enough to earn it a spot in the Guinness World Records book.

16. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is truly massive (277 river miles long and up to 18 miles wide!), which helps explain why so many people feel the urge to see it in person. 

In 2022, 4.7 million people visited, making the Grand Canyon the second-most popular national park in the country (behind Great Smoky Mountain Nationals Park). Established in 1919, the park offers activities for all ability levels, whether you want to do an intense hike down into the canyon and sleep under the stars (with a backcountry permit, of course) or simply want to saunter along the South Rim Trail, an easy walking path with views that wow.

What to Know Before You Go to the Grand Canyon

Where to stay:  The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

Hot tip: If you’ve wanted to visit the Grand Canyon for a while now, this is the year to do it. The park is celebrating its 100th birthday with musical performances, lectures, screenings and other special events.

Fun fact: The most remote community in the continental U.S. can be found in the Grand Canyon. At the base of the canyon, Supai Village — part of the Havasupi Indian Reservation — has a population of 208. It’s inaccessible by road, and mail is delivered by pack mule. Want to see it for yourself? The village houses a collection of campsites , accessible via a hiking trail.

15. Bali, Indonesia

In recent years, Bali has become a popular expat destination, where groups of "digital nomads" work and play. 

But the island hasn't lost its original charm to this added tourism and continues to be an incredible destination. Divide your time between swimming in the beach, hiking active volcanoes, visiting temples and enjoying views of tiered rice terraces.

What to Know Before You Go to Bali

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Bali Seminyak Beach

Hot tip:  Though shoulder season (January to April and October to November) means fewer crowds and cheaper prices, it also means rain. Tons of it. We'd recommend avoiding the rainy season if possible.

Fun fact: On the Saka New Year, Balinese people celebrate Nyepi. This Hindu celebration is a day of silence when everything on the island shuts down and no noise is allowed.

14. New York, New York

As the saying goes, New York City is “the city that never sleeps” — and you won’t want to either when you visit, lest you run out of time to take it all in. 

Be sure to check out newer attractions, like the High Line (an elevated park) and Hudson Yards (a mega-mall along the Hudson River), but also make time for some New York City classics, like catching a Broadway show or standing under the lights of Times Square. 

Foodies will have a hard time choosing where to eat (the city is home to almost 100 Michelin stars !), which is why an extended trip is always a good idea.

What to Know Before You Go to New York City

Where to stay: The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Hot tip: Yes, January and February get cold here, but this is also the best time to lock in relatively reasonable hotel rates. You can spend your time eating in the city’s restaurants, exploring its fabulous museums and catching its world-class theater shows without needing to spend much time in the chilly outdoors. 

Fun fact: There’s a birth in New York City about every 4.4 minutes — and a death every 9.1 minutes. 

13. Banff National Park, Canada

Some of the world’s most stunning mountain scenery and vistas are located in Banff, the tiny Canadian town located at 4,537 feet above sea level inside the national park by the same name. Banff is the highest town in Canada, and Banff National Park was Canada’s first, established in 1885.

Shred some powder at Banff’s three ski resorts in the winter, then come back in the summer for activities like hiking, biking, fishing and scrambling (scaling steep terrain using nothing but your hands).

What to Know Before You Go to Banff

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs

Hot tip: June to August and December to March are the best times to visit if you want to take advantage of summer and winter activities. 

Fun fact: Banff National Park has more than 1,000 glaciers.

12. Maldives

You can look at picture after picture, but you still really need to visit the Maldives to believe its beauty. If rich sunsets, flour-like beaches and vibrant blue waters are your style, this is the destination for you. 

Though it’s somewhat difficult to get to this small island nation southwest of Sri Lanka, that also means it’s incredibly private and secluded, which makes it the perfect spot for a honeymoon or romantic beach getaway. 

And don’t worry about getting bored, either — explore the water by snorkeling or scuba diving, relax in the spa or wander around the bustling Male’ Fish Market.

What to Know Before You Go to Maldives

Where to stay: Velassaru Maldives

Hot tip: May to October is the island-nation’s rainy season — but that also means it’s the best time to go for fewer crowds and better rates.

Fun fact: In 1153 AD, the nation’s people converted to Islam. Today, the Maldives remains the most heavily Muslim country on earth.

11. Barcelona, Spain

Soccer, architecture, shopping, nightlife, world-class food and wine, arts and culture — is there anything Barcelona doesn’t have? If there is, we honestly can't think what it would be. 

This cosmopolitan Spanish city is home to some awe-inspiring architecture, including several buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi, so be sure to book tours of his whimsical creations like Park Guell and the yet-to-be-finished Church of the Sacred Family (La Sagrada Familia). 

For nightlife and shopping, Las Ramblas is always bustling; for an enriching arts experience, follow the progression of famed artist Pablo Picasso at Museo Picasso.

What to Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Where to stay:  Hotel Bagues

Hot tip: It can get really humid here, so it's best to plan your trip in May and June before things really heat up.

Fun fact: In preparation for its 1992 hosting of the Olympics, the city flew in sand from as far away as Egypt to make Barceloneta Beach a place where people would want to go. Though largely man-made, the beach remains a wonderful spot for seaside R&R. 

10. Glacier National Park, Montana

The crown jewel of beautiful Montana, Glacier National Park is every outdoors traveler's dream.

Of course, the most defining natural feature of the park are its glaciers, which provide spectacular views as well as a number of pristine lakes. There are hundreds of trails that will take you up peaks, down through valleys and across some of the most beautiful landscapes you'll ever see.

What to Know Before You Go to Glacier National Park

Where to stay: Firebrand Hotel

Hot tip:  Plan to spend a day or two in the nearby town of Whitefish. This gateway to Glacier National Park is one of the best small towns in America and a destination in its own right. 

Fun fact: During your visit, you're very likely to run into mountain goats, which are the official symbols of the park.

9. Tokyo, Japan

The Japanese capital is one of the most exciting cities on the entire planet. It is notoriously fast-paced, with neon lights illuminating the multitudes that are constantly rushing to their next destination. 

But Tokyo is also a city of temples, of taking time to picnic under the cherry blossoms and of making sure you enjoy the abundance of delicious food that can be found on basically every corner.

What to Know Before You Go to Tokyo

Where to stay: The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Hot tip: Visit between the months of March and April or September and November for more comfortable temperatures. Of course, spring is when the city's cherry blossoms are famously in full bloom.

Fun fact: Tokyo happens to be the largest metropolitan area in the world, with more than 40 million people calling the greater metro area home.

8. Phuket, Thailand

If you’re looking for a vacation destination that feels luxurious but won’t break the bank, start searching for flights to Phuket now. 

This island in southern Thailand, which is just an hour flight from Bangkok, is surrounded by the Andaman Sea, so white sandy beaches abound. If a stunning sunset is what you’re after, head to Promthep Cape, the southernmost point on the island and a popular spot for photo-ops. For views of the island and beyond, climb to the top of the massive alabaster statue called Big Buddha.

You can even learn something during your vacation by visiting the Soi Dog Foundation, an innovative animal shelter that’s fighting the meat trade and taking care of the thousands of stray cats and dogs in the area.

What to Know Before You Go to Phuket

Where to stay: InterContinental Phuket Resort

Hot tip: Visit between November and April for the best weather — and ideal conditions for beach activities like swimming and boating. 

Fun fact: The island is not pronounced in the rather colorful way it appears to be. The correct way to say it is “poo-ket” or “poo-get.”

7. Rome, Italy

Though Rome’s historic significance cannot be overstated, don’t assume that this Italian city is stuck in the past. On the contrary, you’ll find posh storefronts and luxurious hotels not far from iconic structures like the Pantheon (built in 120 AD) and the Colosseum (built in 80 AD).

And then, of course, there’s the city’s art. Stroll through Rome, and you’ll stumble upon some of the greatest treasures the world has ever seen — an astonishing collection of frescoes, paintings, ceilings and fountains created by icons like Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Raphael and Bernini.

After all that exploration, take advantage of ample opportunities to eat and drink, including at several Michelin-starred restaurants. City staples include suppli (deep-fried balls of risotto, mozzarella and ragu meat sauce) and cacio e pepe (a deceptively simple mix of al-dente pasta, pecorino romano and fresh black pepper). 

What to Know Before You Go to Rome

Where to stay: Radisson Blu Ghr Hotel

Hot tip: Tourists congregate here in the summer when temperatures are also sweltering. Go instead between October and April, when there are thinner crowds, better rates and cooler temps. Just make sure to bring a light jacket.

Fun fact: Each year, travelers throw about $1.7 million worth of coins into the Trevi Fountain. The money is donated to Caritas, a Catholic nonprofit that supports charities focused on health, disaster relief, poverty and migration.

6. London, England

English writer Samual Johnson once said, “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” 

From live performances of Shakespeare to truly world-class (and free!) museums like the National Gallery, London will enrich your mind and enliven your senses. Of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at Buckingham Palace to see the famous stone-faced guards outside and the 19 lavish State Rooms inside (though, unfortunately, you can’t see the queen’s private quarters). Another must-see landmark is the Tower of London, the historic castle on the north side of the River Thames.

What to Know Before You Go to London

Where to stay: Vintry & Mercer

Hot tip: Many U.S. cities now offer direct flights to London, so set a price alert and act fast when you see fares drop.

Fun fact: London’s pubs are worth a visit for their names alone; fanciful monikers include The Case is Altered, The Pyrotechnists Arms, John the Unicorn and The Job Centre. 

5. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Flavorful French cuisine, top-notch resorts, warm waters — need we say more? Though Tahiti can be pricey, travelers say it’s so worth it. 

The largest of the 118 French Polynesian islands, Tahiti is split into two main regions (connected by a land bridge). Tahiti Nui, the larger region, is home to the island’s capital Papeete and surfing hotspot Papenoo Beach, while Tahiti Iti, the smaller region, offers more seclusion and the bright white sands of La Plage de Maui.

What to Know Before You Go to Tahiti

Where to stay: Hilton Hotel Tahiti

Hot tip: Visit between May and October, Tahiti’s winter, when there are less humidity and rain. 

Fun fact: Overcrowding is not a concern here; Hawaii gets more visitors in 10 days than all of French Polynesia does in a year.

4. Maui, Hawaii

If you’re short on time or you just can’t decide which Hawaiian island to visit, Maui is right in the sweet spot: not too big, not too small, but just right.

There are five regions to explore on Maui, including the popular West Maui and South Maui, home to some of the island’s best-known attractions and beaches (Wailea Beach is in South Maui, for example). But don’t overlook East Maui, where you can travel along the Road to Hana, or the Upcountry, where you can explore the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. 

What to Know Before You Go to Maui

Where to stay:  Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Hot tip: This is Hawaii we’re talking about, so your trip will be on the pricey side. Be sure to budget for add-ons if you need them (think gym access and WiFi at your hotel), and do some research on insurance before you head to the car-rental counter.

Fun fact: How’s this for a selling point? Maui has more beach than any other Hawaiian island — 60 miles of it, with red, white and black sand.

3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Don’t write off the French Polynesian island of Bora Bora just because of its size. Though it’s a little more than 2 miles wide and just 6 miles long, Bora Bora packs in an abundance of natural beauty. To start, you won’t be able to take your eyes off the island’s turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

If you’re looking for more than relaxation on your trip, consider hiking or booking a 4X4 tour of Mount Otemanu, part of an extinct volcano that rises 2,400 feet above the lagoon. You can also snorkel among the coral reef of Coral Gardens, where you might catch a glimpse of reef sharks, eels and stingrays.

Because of its remoteness, flying into Bora Bora Airport will be quite a journey, no matter where you're departing from. But you'll forget everything as soon as you see this Polynesian paradise that is beautiful beyond words.

What to Know Before You Go to Bora Bora

Where to stay: Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Hot tip: Though Bora Bora can be wildly expensive to visit, you can cut costs by visiting between December and March (though you should avoid the Christmas holiday) and by bringing your own alcohol and sunscreen with you.

Fun fact: Bora Bora is one of the countries that no longer exists . The Kingdom of Bora Bora was an independent state until it was forcefully overtaken and annexed by France in 1888.

2. Paris, France

Paris has it all — incredible cuisine, legendary landmarks and centuries of history. Those are just some of the reasons it’s the second-best place to visit in the world.

Though you’ll want to spend your time hitting up popular tourist spots like the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay, you should also carve out time to explore other parts of Paris — the city’s 20 diverse neighborhoods, called arrondissements, for instance. Standouts include the 2nd arrondissement, which touts covered passages and some of the city’s hippest restaurants, and the romantic 18th arrondissement, with charming squares, cafes and bars, set apart from the city’s more tourist-packed areas.

What to Know Before You Go to Paris

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Du Palais Royal

Hot tip: Yes, summer in Paris is busy, but the weather is also ideal — average highs are in the 70s.

Fun fact: Built for the 1889 World Fair, the Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary , and was almost torn down in 1909. Luckily, local officials saw its value as a radiotelegraph station, preserving the future tourist icon for generations to come. 

1. South Island, New Zealand

South Island, the larger but less populated of the two islands that make up New Zealand, earn this top-spot honor for its gorgeous scenery, adrenelin-pumping experiences and affordability.

The 33.5-mile hike on Milford Sound, which is limited to 90 people at a time, is considered one of the world’s best treks, with stops at Lake Te Anau, suspension bridges, a mountain pass and the tallest waterfall in the country, Sutherland Falls.

For a heart-pumping experience, you can jump out of a helicopter while flying over the Harris Mountains with skis on your feet. Still not satisfied? Roam Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and explore the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, two of the most accessible glaciers in the world.

What to Know Before You Go to New Zealand

Where to stay: QT Queenstown

Hot tip: Book your trip for the fall, when South Island is temperate, not overcrowded and offers great rates. Bonus: This is also when the island is at its most stunning.

Fun fact: New Zealand natives, called Kiwis, are among the most hospitable you’ll ever meet. The local saying “He aha te mea nui o te ao. He tangata, he tangata, he tangata” translates , appropriately, to “What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people.”

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The best hotspots you can buy

Staying connected is critical, whether it is keeping in touch with family or logging in for the work day. You are not always at home or at your desk, so you may need something that is portable that you can take on the go. That is where a hotspot comes in.

A hotspot is a physical device that allows you to obtain a wireless internet point and connection without fussy wires or cables. You have complete freedom of movement with the ability to access an internet connection when there is service nearby. Hotspots may be connected to a carrier or they may be available on plans suitable for international use. 

Also:  Best travel VPNs

What is the best hotspot right now?

Our pick for the best hotspot overall is the Netgear Nighthawk M6 , a hotspot suitable for T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T customers while also being unlocked for use abroad in up to 125 countries. It's fast, reliable, and easy to set up.

ZDNET has covered the mobile space for years, and while considering our choices, we leaned upon personal experience and customer feedback. Before you hit the road to your next adventure, consider our recommendations for the best hotspot devices on the market in 2024. 

Best hotspots of 2024

Netgear nighthawk m6, best hotspot overall.

• Antenna ports
• Decent battery
• Poor Wi-Fi range

The Netgear Nighthawk M6 is our pick for the best hotspot overall, and is unlocked for Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T customers. This dual-band hotspot provides 2.4GHz support and a USB connector. This makes it capable of supporting up to 32 devices simultaneously at high speeds. For your convenience, a USB-C adapter is included in the box and the hotspot is unlocked -- meaning you can use it in around 125 countries just by swapping your SIM card and data plan.

While expensive at $700 (though often on sale), customers say this hotspot provides solid connectivity and is easy to set up.

Netgear Nighthawk M6 t ech specs: Frequency:  2.4GHz  | Dimensions:  4.14 x 4.14 x 0.85 inches  | Weight:  1.3 pounds  | Simultaneous connections:  32 |  Processor:  Qualcomm Snapdragon X62 5G

Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L hotspot

Best hotspot for verizon customers.

• Reliable performance
• Touchscreen
• Made for Verizon

The Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L hotspot is our pick for the best hotspot for Verizon customers, offering dual-band frequencies with a 5Ghz or 2.4GHz frequency. There is a 2.4-inch color touchscreen display for easy management, making it a simple matter to make adjustments. 

This hotspot is compatible with both your laptop and smartphone (USB-C included!), and it has the ability to connect to up to 15 different devices for greater versatility. This hotspot will last approximately 24 hours before needing a charge, giving you plenty of time for use. Customers say that this is a great option for travel and is reasonably priced. 

Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L hotspot t ech specs: Frequency:  5GHz  | Dimensions:  5.35 x 3.62 x 2.24 inches  | Weight:  9.4 ounces  | Simultaneous connections:  15

Simo Solis Lite

Best budget hotspot.

• Available in 135+ countries
• Daily plans available
• Excellent battery
• Limited device support
• Limited charging options

If you need a handy budget hotspot at home or plan on traveling internationally, the Simo Solis Lite is the best hotspot for you. 

With a dual-band 5GHz frequency and 4G LTE bandwidth, connections are strong, even when traveling overseas to any one of 135-plus countries. This works with a variety of devices, far more than the average hotspot with compatibility for your smart home and security system. No SIM card is needed to connect to up to 10 devices simultaneously. It doesn't hurt that it's very affordable at $160, either. 

Customers say they enjoy the fact no contract is required but differ in opinion when it comes to available speeds. 

You can also opt for a 5G-ready model for $400.

Simo Solis Lite t ech specs: Frequency:  5GHz  | Dimensions:  4.8 x 4.8 x 1.73 inches  | Weight:  10.2 ounces  | Simultaneous connections:  10

Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G UW

Best hotspot for t-mobile customers.

• Reasonably priced
• 4G & 5G connectivity
• Decent battery life
• Reported power problems

The Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G UW is a great hotspot option for T-Mobile customers. This hotspot offers 5G and 4G LTE connectivity, alongside Wi-Fi 6, and you can connect up to 32 devices including laptops and smartphones at the same time. There is a touchscreen for quickly accessing settings and you can expect up to 13 hours of battery life.

You can pick up the Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G UW for $264, or $11/month at T-Mobile.

Customers like the speeds on offer but some report power issues. 

This hotspot is also available for Verizon subscribers. 

Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G UW tech specs :  Frequency:  2.4/5GHz  | Dimensions:  5.9 x 2.91 inches x 0.74 inches  | Weight:  8.6 ounces  | Simultaneous connections:  32  | Processor : Qualcomm Snapdragon X62

GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE mobile hotspot

• Reasonable speeds
• Poor customer support
• Some international travel data plans are expensive

The GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE mobile hotspot is the best option for travel. Coverage is available for around 150 countries, with data plans provided across different regions (individual, region, or multi-country options are available). The compact touchscreen device doesn't require a SIM or contract and speeds can reach 150Mbps. It can also be used as a power bank and if you wish you can use your own SIM card.

You can pick up this no-contract device for $170 ($30 off) at Amazon. Customers say they like the device's speed, ease of use, and coverage, but also report that customer support is lacking. 

GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE   tech specs :  Frequency:  2.4GHz  | Dimensions:  5.35 x 2.84 x 0.47 inches  | Weight:  6.3 ounces  | Simultaneous connections:  10  | Processor : Qualcomm Snapdragon X62

What is the best hotspot?

Our top pick is the Netgear Nighthawk M6, a hotspot suitable for T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T customers while also being unlocked for use abroad in up to 125 countries. It's fast, reliable, and easy to set up.

Which is the best hotspot for you?

Choosing the best hotspot does not have to be difficult with these expert recommendations.

Factors to consider when choosing a hotspot

When you are looking for a hotspot that appeals to you, consider the below:

• Cost : The cost of your device is a factor that should be weighed with how often you intend to use it, or whether or not it's crucial to run your own personal hotspot. 
• Carriers : Some products may be locked to a specific carrier, such as T-Mobile or Verizon. Ensure that the model you choose is compatible with any existing cellular plans. 
• Use abroad : If you plan to mainly use your hotspot abroad, such as when you are traveling or on the road for work, you might want to opt for a hotspot specifically designed for use worldwide. 
• Additional features : If you want high-end features, such as an included power bank or support for a large number of devices, make sure your choice is right for you and provides more than basic connectivity. 

How did we choose these best hotspots?

There are important factors to consider when choosing the best hotspot. Many hotspots can be investment items, we considered the following:

• Size: Because hotspots are portable devices, we considered the dimensions of each hotspot to ensure that each option is easy to carry on the go.
• Battery life: We look for hotspots that have an extended battery life for longer use between charges.
• Display: Most hotspots offer a color or touchscreen option for its display. Look for the signal and battery life indicators to ensure they are available for easy reference.
• Network: The best hotspots are able to work across a number of cellular networks, whether it is Verizon or AT&T. Be sure to check that your preferred provider is available with the best hotspot for you.
• Cost: The cost of the best hotspot can vary, depending on the option you choose. We look for affordable models that suit a variety of budgets but still will not break the bank.

What is a hotspot and how does it work?

A hotspot is a portable device that allows you to create a personal Wi-Fi network, so you can connect your phone, laptop, and other devices to the internet while you're on the go. Think of it like a mini Wi-Fi router that you can carry around in your pocket.

First, you need to purchase a hotspot device (also called a mobile hotspot or portable hotspot). Once you have a hotspot, you'll need to activate the mobile hotspot feature on your phone, laptop, or other device, and then connect your device to the hotspot just like you would with any other Wi-Fi network.

Keep in mind that using a mobile hotspot can consume a lot of power and data, so it's important to keep an eye on your usage and turn off the hotspot when you're not using it. Also, if you're using a mobile hotspot on your phone, make sure you have enough battery life to support it.

Do you need a cellular plan with a hotspot?

Now, the big question is: Do you need a cellular plan to use a mobile hotspot? Yes, you do need a cellular plan. Mobile hotspots use the cellular network to connect to the internet, so you'll need to have a data plan that includes hotspot usage. Without a plan, you won't be able to connect to the internet.

Do the best hotspots work in other countries?

The best hotspots work across the US and even in other countries, depending on the model you choose. For example, the Simo Solis Lite allows access to more than 135 countries when traveling internationally. 

How much do the best hotspots cost?

The best hotspots range in cost from $50 all the way to $1,000, depending on the model and features that you choose.

Is a 5G hotspot worth it?

The 5GHz band can support faster speeds than 4G bands can accommodate, but this doesn't mean you need to rush out and buy a 5G-compatible hotspot. Speeds will still depend on available connectivity and coverage, and 5G-enabled hotspots can be expensive, too. However, if you want the best speeds available, it still may be worth your while. 

Can you use a hotspot for home internet?

You can, but you may be trading speed and reliability by doing so. If you consider a hotspot as a portable router, compared to a traditional router (or mesh system), the functionality and features you are used to at home might be limited. However, I've found hotspots extremely useful for traveling and when I've been in between rentals, so I can stay connected and work while I'm waiting for home broadband to activate.

Are there any alternative best hotspots worth considering?

While we've compiled a list of what we consider the best hotspots on the market today, not every worthwhile product can be showcased. In our search, we also found these alternative best hotspots that may be worth a second look. 

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Best mobile hotspots for travel in 2022

If you're a certified road warrior or hardcore traveler, mobile hotspots are now essential gear. Whether you’re traveling to a remote place and need to stay up to date with your emails or visiting a city and wish to avoid public Wi-Fi, mobile hotspots are for you. While your new smartphone likely has a mobile hotspot built-in, standalone Wi-Fi hotspots are more flexible, especially for multiple devices and phones with network data caps. With a hotspot, you can connect your laptop, phone, tablet, or Wi-Fi-connected camera without component battery drain. We found some excellent hotspots for you to choose from.

The proliferation of 5G networks has increased the prevalence of 5G hotspots. If 4G LTE is not cutting it for your needs, have a look at our list of the best 5G hotspots .

Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L

• Connects up to 15 devices simultaneously
• Has a 2.4-inch color touchscreen
• 24-hour battery life
• Reported less user-friendly than expected

If you want a no-nonsense, high-quality 4G LTE mobile hotspot for seamless browsing, go for the Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L. It’s reliable, has long-lasting battery life, and connects up to 15 devices at a time. The device comes with a 2.4-inch color touchscreen with up to 24 hours of battery life so you can use it all day. It also has security features like Auto VPN, data monitoring, and an optional guest network. Plus, it comes with a universal charger and USB port for versatile use.

GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot

• Worldwide compatibility for over 100 countries
• Dynamic network switching
• Offers multiple data plans
• Data plan issues reported by some users

If you want a mobile hotspot that works around the globe, the GlocalMe G4 Pro 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot is a fine choice, as it’s operational in 100 countries. With a massive 7,000mAh battery, it offers great runtime and connects to 10 devices at a time. The device is secure and offers great connectivity so you can get your work done without worrying about unsafe connections. It also offers dynamic network switching so you're never stuck. You can choose from multiple plans, including a monthly pass or a day pass to suit your unique data needs. 

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Skyroam Solis

• Combines mobile hotspot and power bank
• Compatible in over 130 countries
• Lightweight and portable
• Some connectivity issues reported

Want a mobile hotspot and power bank packed in a single device? The Skyroam Solis features a large 6,000mAh power bank along with data connectivity features so you can enjoy continuous streaming without interruptions. It’s operational in over 130 countries so you can use it almost anywhere. It also connects up to five devices for versatile use. You don't have to worry about the cost as it comes with different payment plans to suit your specific needs. It's light and easy to use so you can carry it with you on all your travels. 

T-Mobile Sonic 2.0 4G Mobile Hotspot

• Standby time of 180 hours
• Features a 32GB microSD slot
• Connects up to eight devices simultaneously
• Not compatible with some SIM cards

Looking for a two-in-one mobile hotspot? Consider the T-Mobile Sonic 2.0 4G Mobile Hotspot. It connects up to eight devices at once with a standby time of 180 hours so you can get all your work done on time. The device is compatible with Windows 8 and macOS 10.8 and higher and features the Qualcomm Cortex A5 processor. The best part for travelers and remote workers is the device's 32GB microSD slot, allowing you to store files, photos, videos, and other media on the go. Now you no longer have to worry about storage space for your photos and documents. 

Netgear Nighthawk M1 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot

• Connects up to 20 devices simultaneously
• All day battery life
• Download speeds up to 1Gbps

If you're traveling with the family or your work involves the simultaneous operation of multiple connected devices, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot facilitates sharing Wi-Fi access with up to 20 devices. It has a 5,040mAH rechargeable battery for all-day use and allows easy charging of other USB devices. It features a 2.4-inch LCD screen that lets you monitor data usage, signal strength, and network management. It accepts all current SIM cards and works best on AT&T and T-Mobile. You'll need to check with your carrier about plan details. The unit needs a Nano SIM card from a carrier and a compatible data plan. It features download speeds up to 1Gbps, but that may vary by service and proximity to cell towers.

RoamWiFi R10 Portable WiFi 4G Router Mobile Hotspot

• Operable in 160 countries and regions
• Supports local data packages
• Can connect to five devices at once
• Data package reported as expensive

The RoamWiFi R10 Mobile Hotspot packs 50GB of local data for the U.S. and 1GB of global data that can be used in over 160 countries and regions via its secure network. RoamWiFi also offers local data packages via its app for both iOS and Android. Connect to RoamWiFi R10 and share with up to five smart devices at the same time. The R10 features a 5,000mAh battery, which can be used for over 18 hours with both 5GHz and 2.4GHz WiFi frequencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

When considering the best mobile hotspots to buy, keep in mind some major features to look for. Make sure to consider coverage, portability, price, data plans, and any other handy additional features for your convenience.

One of the most important considerations should be the coverage area of the mobile hotspot. Does the mobile hotspot cover the regions you are visiting? What are the network speeds offered in that location, and are they sufficient for your purpose? Does your device have its own plan or support popular carriers?

If your hotspot device is thick and heavy or unwieldy, you will struggle to use it. For travelers and remote workers who are always on the go, pay attention to the size, weight, and shape of the mobile hotspot you choose to make sure it's the most comfortable fit for your purpose.

These days, mobile hotspots offer additional features like charging (as in the case of the Skyroam Solis) or storage space (as seen in the T-Mobile Sonic 2.0 4G Mobile Hotspot). Some hotspots come with data plans or can support multiple devices at once.

For a high-quality hotspot, you will wind up paying around $100, though the price also may take into account an included data plan, speed, and the coverage region. We have units listed here in a wide range of prices with various options.

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Sakshi Udavant is a freelance journalist and marketing writer covering technology, business, wellbeing and lifestyle. She writes news, analysis, reported features and product reviews about mobiles, smart devices, wearables, and other home tech products.

Before joining Digital Trends, she worked as a tech and security reporter for Digital Privacy News where she interviewed newsmakers and industry professionals around the world. She also worked with BestReviews and Chicago Tribune to publish product round-ups, technical How-Tos, trending stories and more.

Read more of her work at https://www.sakshiudavant.com/portfolio and follow her on @TheWriterLuna for updates.

The iPhone 14 lineup has been available for some time now, but getting hold of a new device is still exciting. The iPhone 14’s 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display is stunning to behold, with up to 512GB of storage and powered by the speedy A15 Bionic chip. To keep your device safe, it’s important to have a good case. There are many options available, but some cases are better than others. Here are some of our top picks for iPhone 14 cases that you can buy in 2024.

Even though iPhones are some of the best smartphones on the market, they can get pretty pricey, especially if you're going for some of the latest models. Luckily, while there aren't always a lot of great direct discounts to be had, you can certainly find some great carrier deals even on the best iPhones in Apple's lineup. To that end, we've gone out and found some of the best iPhone deals we could find, whether through carriers or unlocked, and collected them all below so you don't have to do the legwork. That said, if you're on a bit of a budget, then you could check out our list of the best refurbished iPhone deals instead, or you can check out some of these other great Apple deals to pair with your new iPhone. iPhone 15 (128GB, locked to AT&T) — $730, was $830 (plus up to $700 off w/ trade-in)

The Apple iPhone 15 finally brings with it Dynamic Island which we’ve only previously seen on the Pro range. It’s a real game changer at times and is very convenient. Alongside that, the Apple iPhone 15 has the Ceramic Shield front to keep it more protected while its 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display promises to be up to two times brighter than the iPhone 14 in the sun. There’s also a 48MP main camera with 2x telephoto lens to help you take great shots. The A16 Bionic chip has plenty of processing power to aid with software adjustments.

Apple's iPhone 15 Plus is here, and it packs a big punch. With the iPhone 15 Plus, you have a large, crystal-clear 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with the Dynamic Island, the A16 Bionic chip for fast performance with iOS 17, and a powerful dual-camera setup with 48MP main and 12MP ultrawide lenses. And of course, you can charge it up with USB-C, as Apple has finally ditched Lightning with the iPhone 15 lineup.

However, the iPhone 15 Plus still starts at a hefty $899 for the base model, which is a hefty chunk of change. You'll definitely want to protect your investment, and one of the easiest ways to do so is with a good case (and a screen protector helps out too!). Here are some of the best iPhone 15 Plus cases you can buy right now.

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Best Mobile Hotspots for Travel

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 57 Comments

If you’re planning on getting online when you travel, a handy device to help you do that is a mobile hotspot, also known as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, personal hotspot or MiFi device.

These devices connect to a cellular network for data, just like your phone does, and then share that data over a private local Wi-Fi network. This means you can get online in locations where there’s no Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi hotspots allow you to connect multiple devices at once, which can include smartphones, tablets, laptops, and any other device that connects wirelessly to the Internet. This connection is often more secure than connecting to a public Wi-Fi network.

There are a lot of mobile hotspots on the market, and choosing the right one can be tricky. We wanted to put this post together to help you understand first of all what to look for when choosing a mobile hotspot for travel, and then provide our pick of the best mobile hotspots available at the moment.

As professional travel bloggers , we’ve used a number of mobile hotspots during our travels over the past decade. Being able to get online from a range of locations is key to our business.

In addition, as a former software developer with a degree in computer science, I also have a passion for technology, and like to keep up to date with the latest developments.

Let’s get started by answering some questions you might have, and then go through what to look for in a mobile hotspot.

What is a Mobile Hotspot?

A mobile hotspot is a small portable device, usually around the size of a deck of playing cards, which is designed to allow you to connect to the internet from a wide variety of locations.

It connects to the same cellular network that smartphones use for internet access. Once connected it creates a local Wi-Fi network. You can then connect your devices to the local Wi-Fi network in order to access the internet.

A mobile hotspot is usually a standalone device which creates a Wi-Fi network, but there is also a category of device known as a mobile Wi-Fi dongle or internet dongle.

These work in a similar way to a mobile hotspot; in that they use the cellular network to create an internet connection. However, they plug directly into the USB port of a laptop for power, and don’t usually create a Wi-Fi network. So they are more designed for a single device like a laptop to connect to the internet.

Why Do You Need a Mobile Hotspot?

The main reason for using a mobile hotspot is to get online in places where there isn’t reliable Wi-Fi access.

Mobile hotspots are popular with campers and RVers for example, as many camping locations around the world do not have Wi-Fi.

A mobile hotspot is also popular with international and domestic travelers. For international travelers, a mobile hotspot can be a cost-effective way to get online without running up hefty data fees from your mobile provider.

This means you can do things like look up places to eat, get navigation information, and search for things to do, all without having to search out a Wi-Fi network. We find being able to get online during our travels whenever we need to can be really handy.

For domestic travelers, it can just be a good way to get your devices online without having to worry about finding Wi-Fi, which can be slow and potentially insecure.

To the latter point, about security, public WiFi networks can present a security risk when you connect to them, as all your data has to be passed over the public network. Using a mobile hotspot allows you to connect securely to a cell provider’s network, which is usually a much more secure option than a public Wi-Fi network.

Using a mobile hotspot when travelling can be another way to keep your data secure.

When is a Mobile Hotspot Not Needed?

If you don’t really need to be online for your whole trip, then you might find that you don’t need a mobile hotspot. You’ll just want to be sure to plan in advance and have all the information you need for your day available offline.

A mobile hotspot might not be the best solution if you will have easy access to free or inexpensive Wi-Fi service on your travels. You can see our guide to different ways to get online while travelling .

If you are travelling to locations with Wi-Fi and just want to improve an existing Wi-Fi signal or make a connection more secure, then you’ll probably just want a travel router. See our guide to the best travel routers for some ideas.

Although a mobile router can also be used at home if you don’t have a good internet connection, this is not their primary purpose and there are usually better solutions out there. Normally data prices on mobile hotspots are higher than home internet packages.

If you are looking to improve your home internet speeds, a faster Wi-Fi router might help. See our guide to the best home Wi-Fi routers for some suggestions. Alternatively, your provider might have a home router that works over cellular networks that might be a better option.

Does a Mobile Hotspot Work Everywhere?

A mobile hotspot only works in locations where there is a mobile phone signal. So, whilst this means it will work in lots of places, and certainly in more places than you might find a Wi-Fi network, it won’t work absolutely everywhere.

Remote wilderness locations for example are unlikely to have a cellular network, whilst most locations with some form of population likely will.

We would recommend checking network coverage maps of a destination if you have a specific location in mind for using your device. You can usually do this with the carrier, which should have coverage maps on their website.

If you are travelling to locations outside the reach of mobile networks, such as out to sea or in very remote parts of the world, you might want to consider another option if you really need to get online. Solutions in this case usually involve a satellite internet connection.

These provide global coverage but come at a price premium. The speeds are usually not very fast, although this is changing with the launch of services like Starlink.

If you are travelling in an RV and looking to get online, this can be an option. See my guide to getting online when traveling for more on satellite connectivity.

Should you Rent or Buy a Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot?

There are a few different ways that you can get a mobile hotspot, depending on exactly what you want to use it for and your budget.

First, you can buy a mobile hotspot outright. Once you own the device, you can either buy a SIM card for it, or it might come with its own built-in SIM card, in which case you just need to buy data as you go.

This will usually have a higher up-front cost, but in the long-term owning a mobile hotspot will usually work out cheaper than renting one. You can expect to pay around $70 – $400 for a mobile hotspot device if you buy it outright. Then you just have to pay for data.

The other option is to rent a mobile hotspot. There are lots of companies around the world who will rent you a mobile hotspot. These are usually a good option for short-term usage, and are particularly popular with international travelers.

Renting a mobile hotspot for international travel is an easy way to get online when on the go. Expect to pay in the region of $5 – $12 a day for the device rental and data, depending on destination and how much data you need.

We’d advise renting if you only plan to use the device for a one-off trip to a specific destination for less than a month. A couple of companies that offer mobile hotspot rentals are GlocalMe  and mywebspot .

If you plan on using a mobile hotspot more regularly on multiple trips, then purchasing a mobile hotspot will usually work out better value in the long run.

However if you just want data for a one-off two week trip, then rental will likely work out a better value option. A rental option is also easier to use as it comes pre-configured with a SIM card and data, so all you have to do is turn it on and connect. You don’t have to worry about finding a SIM card, network compatibility issues and so on.

We have used both rental options and our own hotspot with a SIM card. We definitely appreciate the simplicity of a rental option. However, for us using devices for long term travel, owning a device outright has definitely been more cost-effective overall.

Can you Use a Phone as a Mobile Hotspot?

Many modern smartphones, including Apple and Android devices, include built in mobile hotspot functionality. This is often referred to as mobile tethering.

With this feature, you can share your phone’s data connection with your other devices, either over a Wi-Fi network that the phone creates, over Bluetooth, or by directly connecting your phone to a computer with USB.

This can be a good option, but there are a few things to watch out for.

First, not every mobile carrier supports data tethering, and it can be contract specific. So even if your phone is capable of tethering, it might not actually work, or it may have specific limitations. For example, our phone carrier does allow tethering, but only domestically. If we travel overseas, we can’t use it.

Next, if it is permitted, you need to be aware that tethering will use up your smartphone’s data allowance. If you do not have a generous data allowance, using your phone for tethering can very quickly take you over your allowance.

This is especially likely to happen if you are using a laptop or desktop computer, because they generally use much more data than a phone.

Finally, and just something to be aware of, is that mobile tethering can also use up a device’s battery very quickly. So, this is usually only a good idea if you are near to a power source.

With the above caveats out of the way, using your phone as a mobile hotspot is definitely an option to think about instead of buying a dedicated mobile hotspot. This is especially the case if you have an unlocked phone, as you can buy local SIM cards when you travel, which often offer very reasonable data prices.

Alternatively, if your mobile contract includes international roaming with tethering for no extra fee, this is definitely an option to consider.

Features to Look for in a Mobile Hotspot

So now you know why you might want a mobile hotspot.

Before we recommend some specific models to check out, we first want to share details of what to look for in a mobile hotspot, based on our experience using these devices.

This should help you pick the right mobile hotspot for you and make a fully informed choice.

Cellular Network Technology and Speed

A mobile hotspot connects to the same network that a smartphone connects to. However, it only uses the data connection. As you might be aware, there are a number of different types of network out there. These are based on different technologies, and are often referred to as mobile broadband networks.

Every few years, new technology comes along, usually promising faster speeds. However, it takes a long time for this technology to roll out as it normally requires new hardware to be installed in mobile masts around the country.

For this reason, it’s normal for networks of different speeds to co-exist. More populous areas tend to be upgraded to faster networks first, whilst rural locations will often take longer.

When you buy a mobile hotspot, you need to check what cellular network it supports, as this will affect both the maximum supported speed, and also where the device will work. As an example, whilst 5G networks might offer the fastest speeds at the moment, they are not widely available.

Here’s an overview of current network technology you might expect to encounter.

• 2G – Launched in 1991, 2G offers speeds of up to 237 kbit/s download and upload. Also known as GSM, GSM GPRS and GSM Edge. This is generally not popularly available any more.
• 3G – Launched in 2001. Offers speeds up to 1.6Mbit/s download and 0.5Mbit/s upload. Also known as UTMS and CDMA. Still available but largely being replaced by 4G.
• 4G – Launched in 2006. Offers speeds up to 300Mbit/s download and 75Mbit/s upload. Also known as HSPA+, LTE and LTE-Advanced.
• 5G – Launched in 2018. Offers speeds up to 10Gbit/s download and 500 Mbit/s upload

It’s worth noting that these speeds are generally all theoretical in the most optimal conditions, and real-world performance is usually slower. Various factors influence the speeds you will get, including the distance from the mast, the weather, and any objects in the way like buildings or trees.

For most users at the moment, 4G offers the best combination of speed and availability, as it is a fairly mature technology. If you’re wondering how fast of a network you need, for 4K video streaming for example, you need around a 25Mbit/s connection. For HD streaming, 7 – 10Mbit/s will usually suffice.

When you are looking at a mobile router, check which technologies it supports. We’d recommend one that supports 4G technology at the least. 5G is probably not necessary in most cases, although if you are buying a mobile router, 5G will provide you with an element of future proofing.

Most routers will be backward compatible, so if it supports 5G it should also support 4G and 3G for example.

Global Roaming Support

If you’re choosing a mobile router because you want to get online when you travel internationally, you need to ensure you pick a device that will work in multiple countries around the world. This will require it to support multiple different “bands”.

This can start to get a bit complicated unfortunately, but I will do my best to explain.

Cellular data is transmitted over radio waves, and different countries allocate different parts of the radio spectrum to cellular data. To make matters more complicated, different providers in the same country also use different parts of the spectrum.

You can think of this a bit like radio stations. In the USA for example, FM radio stations broadcast between 87.9MHz and 107.9MHz. So to tune into one of these stations, you need a radio that has a dial that goes from 87.9 to 107.9.

In Japan, FM radio stations broadcast between 76MHz and 95MHz. So, a radio designed for use in the USA wouldn’t be able to pick up all the radio stations in Japan, and vice versa.

Cellular data networks are exactly the same, with different countries using different spectrum allocations for their cellular data. In addition, different network operators use different frequencies within the allocated spectrum – sort of like different radio stations on different frequencies.

As an example, in the USA, the AT&T 4G network is available on the following frequencies, which are also given band names:

• 700 MHz (Bands 12/17/29)
• 850 MHz (Band 5)
• 1900 MHz (Band 2)
• 1700 MHz /2100 MHz: (Bands 4/66)
• 2300 MHz (Band 30)

In the UK, the Three 4G network is available on the following bands:

• 800MHz (Band 20)
• 1400MHz (Band 32)
• 1800MHz : (Band 3)
• 2100MHz: (Band 21)

As you can see, there’s zero overlap between the bands used by AT&T in the USA, and the bands used by Three in the UK. So what does this mean?

Well, it means you have to be a bit careful when buying a mobile hotspot, to ensure it will work wherever you plan on using it. The good news is that device manufacturers don’t want to build lots of versions of their devices for different regions, and tend to include the majority of cellular bands in their devices to avoid this problem.

This is much the same as we have seen in smartphones in recent years, most of them are now released with support for a huge range of bands so they work pretty much everywhere without much fuss.

However, some mobile hotspots only support a limited number of bands, which means they may only work in one country, and sometimes only with one carrier in that country. This is particularly the case with network branded mobile hotspots, which are often limited to the bands that that cellular carrier uses.

Our suggestion is to check which bands the device you are purchasing supports, to ensure it will work everywhere you plan on visiting.

Wi-Fi Version

In order for your devices to connect to the internet, the mobile hotspot will create a local Wi-Fi network that they can connect to. Different hotspots support different Wi-Fi versions and features, which is something to keep in mind when choosing a mobile hotspot.

Just like cellular networks, Wi-Fi networks operate at different speeds and on different frequencies.

There are three main frequencies that Wi-Fi networks operate at 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz. 2.4GHz is the original standard and is generally more crowded but has better range, whilst the 5GHz and 6GHz frequencies are normally faster with less range.

There are also different Wi-Fi categories, like Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6. Each step up tends to bring an increase in speed, much like the difference between 3G, 4G and 5G. If you’re interested in the different Wi-Fi speeds and technologies, you can read more about them in our guide to home Wi-Fi routers here .

Honestly, the supported Wi-Fi version of a mobile hotspot is not that important. Most devices these days should support at least Wi-Fi version 5, which was released in 2014. This supports network speeds up to 3,470Mbps, which is far faster than most cellular networks will run.

We would recommend, if possible, choosing a device which can create a 5Ghz network. These tend to be less congested. However, again, it’s not that important. The cellular network connection speed will nearly always be the bottleneck in your network, rather than the speed of the Wi-Fi network.

Number of Devices Supported

One of the main reasons for purchasing a mobile hotspot is that it lets you share its internet connection with multiple devices. It’s important that whatever hotspot you buy, it’s going to be capable of supporting all the devices you want to connect at once.

If you’re travelling with a family on a camping trip for example, you might have quite a number of devices that you want to get online at once. You definitely don’t want to be having arguments over who can connect when!

We’d recommend choosing a mobile hotspot that supports at least 8 devices.

Battery Life

You’re getting a mobile hotspot because you want to use it when you’re mobile, and that often means being away from a power socket. We often use our hotspots on long distance bus journeys for example, and whilst some of these do come with free Wi-Fi and USB connections, this is by no means standard worldwide.

So having a device that has a good battery life is important. After all, there’s no point having paid for data and a device if you can’t actually use it! We’d recommend looking for a device that has at least an 8-hour battery life, but ideally 12 hours or more. This means it can be used for a few sessions between charges.

Most of these devices can be charged using a USB cable or directly from an electrical outlet, so this allows you to charge them from a USB port or portable battery pack as well as a wall plug.

Almost all mobile hotspots support dual voltages for worldwide charging support. However, for the wall plug, you’ll likely need a travel adapter to charge it in a wall plug in other countries. A travel adapter costs just a few dollars and a good universal one that works in most countries is this one .

Wired Connection Options

The most common way to use a mobile hotspot is to set it up to create a Wi-Fi network that your devices can connect to. However, some mobile hotspots offer additional options.

The most common additional connection types are USB and Ethernet. Whilst these are not necessary, some users might need the option to connect a device directly to the hotspot by a cable instead of over Wi-Fi. This is often the case if you are using a work laptop for example which restricts the WiFi networks you can connect to.

So if this is a feature that you would find useful, look out for a device that supports additional connection options.

Security Features

Using a mobile hotspot to connect your devices to the internet is usually quite secure, but not all mobile hotspots are created equally.

To start with, you’ll want to ensure that the local Wi-Fi network that the hotspot creates is secured with a password, so it can’t be accessed by anyone. The security protocols on Wi-Fi networks have improved over time, and ideally you’ll want it to support at least the WPA2 standard.

Next, for even more protection, or to login to streaming or banking services when you travel, you might consider a router which also supports VPN services. A VPN is a great way to mask your location and further secure your connection, and we have a guide to VPNs here .

Whilst you can connect to a VPN on your laptop or smartphone whilst connected to your hotspot, some mobile hotspots allow you to enter the VPN credentials directly as part of the connection setup. This means that every device that connects through the mobile hotspot will automatically have it’s data passed through the VPN, giving even more security.

External Antenna Support

This is a bit more of a niche requirement, but is something to consider if you regularly travel to locations where the cellular network coverage is a bit spotty.

This is a feature that many of those traveling by motorhome or campervan may look for as they are likely to encounter areas with weak coverage. It’s also easier to mount an antenna externally on one of these vehicles.

Because mobile routers work over radio waves, they have a built-in antenna which allows them to connect to the network. This internal antenna will work for most connections, but if you want to boost the connection, you could connect a larger external antenna.

This works in the same principle as a TV antenna. You can use a small internal TV antenna if you have good reception, but you will usually get better results with a large external antenna mounted outside your home.

For a mobile hotspot, you usually don’t need anything near as large as a TV antenna, just a small antenna attached directly to the device can make a difference. Not all mobile hotspots support them, but it is a nice to have feature.

Network / SIM Lock

There are a few different ways to purchase a mobile hotspot. For example, you can buy them as part of a contract from a network provider, in the same way that you might buy a smartphone.

If you do this, there’s a good chance that the device will be locked to that provider’s network. This means you can’t change the SIM card and use it on another network, unless the provider lets you unlock the device.

You can also buy mobile hotspots from stores like Amazon. These will either come with a removable SIM, or a built-in non-removable SIM tied to a data provider. The former will give you more options, as you can choose the best SIM package for you. The latter can be easier, but will lock you in to purchasing a data plan from that provider, much like buying from a network provider would.

The right option for you will very much depend on your needs. We travel a lot to different countries, so having the option to purchase a local SIM card in each country means an unlocked device without a SIM card is a good option for us.

We also have a pay-as-you-go mobile hotspot tied to a specialist provider of mobile hotspot plans. This has a built-in SIM card but we own the device.

This is useful for travelling to countries where buying a SIM card isn’t so easy for visitors, and is also a simple solution as we just need to buy the appropriate data package for the country we are visiting from the provider of the hotspot.

Data Allowance and Limitations

Whatever kind of mobile hotspot you purchase, be it tied to a contract, rented, or even unlocked, you will want to be aware of the data allowance and any limitations imposed by the network providers.

Mobile data has a price, and so the companies providing it obviously have to both pass that cost on to you, and also turn a profit.

Usually, there will be a data allowance imposed. This might be a fixed daily limit, like 1 GB a day, or a monthly limit, like 10GB / month. It’s important to check what happens if you go over this limit. The most common things that can happen are:

• You can keep using the device, but your provider will start charging (sometimes hefty sums) for data used over the limit.
• Your provider will shut off data so the device can’t be used unless it is topped up.
• Speeds will be throttled beyond a certain limit. This is most common on “unlimited” data plans, where a certain amount of data is provided at full speed, after which the speed is slowed down. Often the speed slows down to 2G, which is fine for e-mail and simple web browsing, but insufficient for video streaming.

The above also applies even if you have an unlocked device with a SIM card you’ve purchased yourself. The SIM card you buy will have terms specifying data usage and allowances. For example, it might give you unlimited data, but will go on to say it’s 1GB of data at 4G speeds, after which it will drop to 2G speeds.

It’s also worth making yourself aware of any limitations your provider might impose. For example, some providers only allow streaming of HD video instead of 4K video. Many providers restrict use of file sharing services. If these are things you want to use, you will definitely want to check if it’s allowed on the device and network you plan to use.

Additional Mobile Hotspot Features

We’ve covered the majority of features to look out for when purchasing a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, but there are some other nice to have features that some devices come with. These may be important to you, so we’ve included them here.

Some mobile hotspots come with a screen. These can be used to display handy information to you, from how good the connection is, to how many devices are connected, data usage and so on.

Some devices even have a touchscreen interface for configuration, which can make setting them up really easy.

Power other devices

A mobile hotspot should come with a built-in battery. Some of them even work as a backup USB battery pack, meaning you can plug your smartphone or other USB device directly into the mobile hotspot and charge it.

Obviously, this will reduce the battery life of the mobile hotspot, but it can be very useful if your smartphone is running low on juice!

Travel Router features

As mentioned earlier in the post, a mobile hotspot is not the same as a travel router . A travel router is primarily designed to enhance and extend an existing wireless network. It doesn’t connect to the internet itself.

However, some mobile hotspots also come with built in travel router functionality. This means that they can either create their own internet connection over a cellular network, or they can connect to an existing Wi-Fi network and share it with your devices.

This gives you a best of both worlds’ solution. Connecting to data all the time can be expensive, whilst Wi-Fi is often free. However, public Wi-Fi networks can often be unsecure, or may limit the number of devices you can connect to them. A travel router solves this problem.

Best Mobile Hotspots for Travel

Now that we’ve shared everything you need to know to help you choose a mobile hotspot, we wanted to share some options for the best mobile hotspots available today based on our experience with a number of products.

These cover a number of options, including devices you can purchase outright, devices you can rent and devices which are locked to a network.

Alcatel LINKZONE (model MW41NF-2AOFUS1)

The Alcatel Linkzone is a budget no frills unlocked 4G LTE mobile hotspot. If you’re looking for a budget mobile hotspot that will work in a number of locations around the world, this is one of the better value options available.

This unlocked device supports micro size SIM cards which you will need to provide yourself for data. It’s unlocked, and supports 4G LTE speeds up to 150Mpbs. You can connect up to 15 devices, and the diminutive size makes it easy to travel with.

Note that there are a number of versions of this product on the market. You want to be sure to get the MW41NF-2AOFUS1 model as this has the most band support, meaning it will work in more locations around the world.

Battery life is OK if not great 6 hours, and there’s no built-in screen. However, there is an app which you can use to manage the device from your smartphone.

For the local WiFi network, it supports up to WiFi 4 and 2.4Ghz networks only.

Networks supported: 4G (Bands 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 12 13 20) + 3G (Bands 1 2 4 5 8). Size : 3.4in x 2.3in x 0.5in (87.6 x 59.6 x 12.6mm) Weight : 6.3oz (178g) Battery Life : 7 hrs Devices Supported : 15 Best for : A solid budget pick for an unlocked global mobile hotspot Price : Check price here on Amazon

TP-Link M7450

TP-Link are a well-known brand who primarily make networking equipment, and they have a range of MiFi devices available. These range from the budget M7000 through to the high end M7650. Note these are easy to find in the UK but not always available in the USA.

The main difference across the range is the 4G speeds supported, the speed of the WiFi network, the battery life, and the number of devices each option support.

The M7000 for example supports 4G speeds up to 150Mbps, has 8 hours of battery life, creates a local 2.4GHz network with speeds up to 300Mbps, and supports up to 10 devices.

The M7650 by comparison supports 4G speeds up to 600Mbps, has 15 hours of battery life, creates a local 2.4GHz network with speeds up to 300Mbps as well as a 5GHz network with speeds up to 867Mbps, and supports up to 32 devices.

Our recommendation falls in the middle of these specifications, but you might prefer to go with a higher or lower end device.

The M7450 supports 4G speeds up to 300Mbps, WiFi of 300Mbps at 2.4GHz and 867Mbps at 5Ghz. It can handle up to 32 devices, and has a battery good for 15 hours. It also has support for an SD card for media storage and streaming, has an app for control, and a color screen display.

Networks supported: 4G (Bands 1 3 5 7 8 20 28 38 40 41) + 3G (Bands 1 5 8). Size : 4.4in x 2.6in x 0.62in (112.5mm x 66.5mm x 16mm) Weight : Unknown Battery Life : 15 hrs Devices Supported : 32 Best for : A great mid-range pick, with a number of models to choose from Price : Check price here on Amazon UK

GlocalMe DuoTurbo

The GlocalMe DuoTurbo is another excellent product if you want the best of both worlds. You can either use it out of the box without a separate SIM, using competitively priced data plans from GlocalMe . Or, you can insert your own SIM card if you prefer.

The device can be purchased outright or rented, and it has excellent 4G coverage, which will let you get online in over 140 countries worldwide.

Specs wise you get LTE connections up to 150Mbps download, 2.4GHz WiFi 4, support for up to 10 devices, and a battery that lasts up to 12 hours. It also has an easy to use touchscreen interface.

Note that GlocalMe have a range of mobile routers you can either rent or buy, as well as a lot of data plans to choose from. So do check out their website to see if one of their other options is a better fit for you than the G4 Pro.

For example, the FirstG is an excellent cost-effective option with good worldwide support for those of you looking to bring your own SIM, whilst their high end Numen Air is an excellent future proof option for those of you wanting 5G as well.

We used a GlocalMe device on a two week trip across Turkey and it worked very well to provide us internet, which was particularly useful on some of the longer bus rides we took!

Networks supported: 4G (Bands 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 12 13 17 18 19 20 25 26 28 34 38 39 40 41 66) + 3G (Bands 1 2 4 5 6 8 9 19) Size : 4.96 x 2.6 x 0.5 inch (126 x 66 x 12.6 mm) Weight : 5.2oz (1480g) Battery Life :  12 hrs Devices Supported : 10 Best for : Easy international and domestic roaming with the option to use your own SIM Device Price : Check price here on GlocalMe and here on Amazon Rental Prices: Check rental price here on GlocalMe

Travel Wifi Sapphire 3

The Travel WiFi Sapphire 3 is a great option if you’re looking for flexibility. TravelWiFi offer a range of devices which you can rent or buy, and you can either choose to buy data packages, or use your own SIM card. This gives you the best of both worlds.

The Sapphire 3 supports up to 4G LTE speeds and comes preloaded with 4GB of global data, although note this is only valid for 14 days from activation.

It supports up to 10 connected devices and has a built-in battery that provides up to 12 hours of battery life. It works in over 130 countries worldwide, and there’s a companion app available to help you manage the device and your data.

We also have a discount code for TravelWifi, use discount code “ findingtheuniverse ” for a 5% discount on their prices when shopping direct.

Note TravelWifi have a range of products, so do compare their other options as well to see if those better suit your needs. The Sapphire 3 in our opinion offers a great balance of price and performance, but if you need more features, check out their other options.

Networks supported: 4G (Bands 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 12 13 17 18 19 20 25 26 28 34 38 39 40 41 66) + 3G (Bands 1 2 4 5 6 8 9 19) Size : 5 x 2.6 x 0.4 inch (126 x 66 x 10 mm) Weight : 4.9oz (125g) Battery Life :  12 hrs Devices Supported : 10 Best for : Easy international and domestic roaming with the option to use your own SIM Device Price : Check price here on TravelWiFi and here on Amazon Rental Prices: Check rental price here on TravelWiFi

NETGEAR Nighthawk M1 (model MR1100)

We have used a number of Netgear networking devices over the years, including the Netgear Nighthawk M1 . This is an unlocked mobile hotspot which supports fast 4G LTE speeds up to 1Gbps.

It has a nice screen which shows you mobile signal strength and data usage, and it supports up to 20 connected devices. It has a built-in battery offering 24hrs of usage, and also offers travel router features where you can extend existing WiFi networks. Speaking of WiFi networks, this offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz support up to the WiFi 5 standard.

Because this device is fully unlocked, and supports a wide range of cellular network bands, it should work well in most destinations (although of course you will want to check in advance of a trip to be sure).

It also offers dual external antenna connectors as well as a USB port you can use to connect an external drive, from which you can stream media to devices on your network.

The main downside of this device is that all the features do come at a price premium.

Note that there are different versions of this device depending on your region. A newer 4G model is the M2 (MR2100) , which offers slightly faster WiFi speeds and a touchscreen interface. This is primarily available for UK, European and Australian markets.

Networks supported : 4G (Bands 1 2 3 4 5 7 12 14 29 30 66) + 3G (Bands 2 4 5) Size : 4.1 x 4.1 x 0.75 inches (10.4 x 10.4 x 1.9cm) Weight : 8.48 oz (240g) Battery Life : 24hrs Devices Supported : 20 Best for : Global and domestic travel where you want to choose your own SIM card and want very fast speeds. Price : Check price here on Amazon

Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro (MR6450 Europe, MR6500 USA)

If you want the most cutting-edge mobile hotspot on the market, look no further than Netgear’s Nighthawk M6 Pro. Available in a European (MR6450) and a US (MR6500) version, this offers a similar form factor to the aforementioned M1, however it features much faster internet speeds thanks to support for 5G as well as WiFi 6.

This means that you can theoretically browse at up to 4Gbps, although this will of course depend on a variety of factors including signal strength and the capability of your mobile provider. Suffice to say, this device is going to be more than fast enough to handle your needs for some time to come.

Specs wise this device is fully loaded. It can handle 5G and 4G connectivity, up to 32 devices over WiFi 6E, and there’s even a 2.5GB ethernet port as well as a USB-C port for wired connectivity.

There’s a nice big touchscreen interface that makes setting it up a breeze. In our testing, it’s easy to configure and certainly more than fast enough to handle everything we threw at it!

Like the other Netgear Nighthawk routers, this device can also be used to extend an existing WiFi network. You can even remove the battery and use the power adaptor when doing so to preserve the battery longevity for travel.

The only downside is that it is rather expensive compared to the other options on our list. However, you do get a lot for your money. If you need the fastest speeds, this is definitely an option to consider.

Networks supported : 5G (SA / NSA / Sub6 n1 n2 n3 n5 n7 n8 n20 n28 n38 n40 n41 n71 n77 n78) 4G (Bands 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 12 13 14 20 28 38 40 41 66) + 3G (Bands 1 2 59) Size : 4.1 x 4.1 x 0.75 inches (10.5 x 10.5 x 2.1cm) Weight : 9 oz (256g) Battery Life : 13hrs Devices Supported : 32 Best for : Global and domestic travel where you want to choose your own SIM card and want the fastest speeds. Price : Check price here on Amazon

For a simple mobile hotspot that just works domestically and internationally, the Solis Lite is a good option.

This device comes with its own built-in SIM card, and it offers 4G data coverage in around 135 countries worldwide. Data packages can be bought for individual days or for longer periods, and vary in price depending on duration and destination. See the Solis website for all the options.

You can either buy time based data which works for a specific time period like a day, or you can pay by the GB.

Note that you can’t change the SIM card, so unlike the GlocalMe device above, you are tied in to the Solis prices. It is also only currently available to purchase outright.

Specs wise, you can connect up to 10 devices, it’s lightweight, offers reasonable battery life with the ability to charge other devices, and WiFi 4 support.

You can also save 10% on any order with our exclusive Solis discount code. Enter “FINDINGTHEUNIVERSE” on checkout to save 10%!

Networks supported: 4G (Bands 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 12 17 18 20 25 26 28 38 39 40 41 71) + 3G (Bands 1 2 4 5 8) Size : 3.5in x .9″ ( Weight : 5.5 oz ( g) Battery Life : 12 hrs Devices Supported : 10 Best for : Easy global roaming with minimal fuss Device Price : Check price here on Amazon and directly with Solis here .

INSEEGO M2000 5G MIFI WiFi-6

If you’re in the USA and looking for the fastest connectivity for domestic use, as well as fast connectivity when travelling internationally, consider T-Mobile’s Inseego 5G MiFi M2000 .

This is the one of the few devices on our list which supports 5G, which means theoretical download speeds of up to 2.7Gbps. Real world speeds will definitely be lower than that, but if you have access to a 5G network, this will definitely get you a fast connection!

It supports Wi-Fi 6, has a color touchscreen, can connect up to 30 devices simultaneously, and can charge other devices via USB. It also has full support for a plethora of 4G bands in areas where 5G isn’t available.

For international use, you’ll mostly be using the 4G bands, of which the device supports many and you’ll need to buy international data packs for overseas use. Alternatively, T-Mobile is quite flexible about unlocking their devices, and the SIM card is removable.

The main downside of this device is the price. 5G is still a relatively new technology, and access to it definitely carries a price premium.

Networks supported: 5G (n2, n41, n66, n71) and 4G (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 49, 66, 71) Size : 5.9 x 2.8 x 0.7 inches (150 x 71 x 18 mm) Weight : 7.4 oz (210g) Battery Life :  24 hrs Devices Supported : Best for : The fastest speeds in the USA with the option for international roaming Price : Check price here on Amazon and here on T-Mobile

Further Reading

Well, that summarises our guide to the best mobile Wi-Fi hotspots available on the market for travel. We hope you found it useful. We’ve also got a lot of other resources you might find useful, including the following.

• We have a guide to getting online when travelling , which has lots of options beyond mobile hotspots to consider
• Depending on your travel plans, you might need a travel router rather than a mobile hotspot. See our guide to travel routers to help you decide which is right for you.
• Fast internet access at home is also important! See our guide to the best home wifi routers for improving your home internet speeds.
• Staying safe online when you travel is important. See our guide to the best travel VPNs for tips on keeping your personal data safe when you’re on the road.
• You’re going to need to power all your devices when you travel – see our guide to the  best travel adapters
• If you are heading out onto the road and looking for a laptop to get some work done, see our guide to the  best laptops for photo editing
• Thinking of buying a new camera? See our guide to the  best cameras for travel

And that’s it! As always, if you have any feedback about the post, or questions for us, just pop them in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 57 comments on this post

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9th January 2024 at 3:11 pm

Hi, Laurence and Norah! Thank you for an excellent and informative blog! I’ve scoured the internet to try to educate myself on this and yours has been the best.

My family of 4 is headed to Greece (Thessaloniki, Corinth, Athens) and Italy (Rome, Florence) with flights through Germany (Munich, Frankfurt) for eight days next month. We currently have a limited Verizon data plan in the US. What is the best and most frugal way for us to have internet access for our trip?

-Do we need to have all our devices on Airplane mode the entire trip to prevent accidental usage of our home plan? I do not want to use any of our US data plan if possible. -Should we add and activate an international plan with Verizon just in case so that we don’t get charged pay-as-you-go rates? It only triggers a per day usage rate when overseas. -Debating getting a travel router for the airport, flight, and hotel usages and mobile hotspot for other times. Is that overkill? Which devices would you recommend for us? Should we rent or buy? -Some devices have built in VPN (GL.iNet Opal). Do you recommend this or for us to get individual VPN accounts? Side note- only one person has E-SIM capability. The rest of us have only physical SIM cards in our phones. We are traveling with a large group and don’t want to have to deal with communicating with a different phone number unless we have to.

Thanks for your time and expertise! Sally

Laurence Norah says

11th January 2024 at 12:53 am

I’m glad to hear you found our guide useful! So airplane mode would definitely be a good option, you’ll just need to remember to turn WiFi back on as when you turn on airplane mode it normally disables WiFi at the same time. You might want to activate a Verizon roaming plan but really that just up to you for peace of mind.

I would say that there are two main options for you. If your phones are unlocked, you could look into picking up a PAYG SIM card for each phone. This would of course mean that all the phones will have a new number, however you aren’t going to be able to use your Verizon numbers anyway as your phones would be in airplane mode if you don’t switch the sims out. You’re going to want to use a calling app that works over data such as Whatsapp.

The other option would be a mobile hotspot for when you are away from a WiFi network. However obviously this will need everyone in your group to be together all the time so they are in range of the hotspot. I’d say a travel router is probably unneccessary unless you don’t want folks to have to be dealing with connecting to WiFi networks all the time. However, again, this will need everyone to be in range of the travel router to use it.

In an ideal world I’d say everyone getting an eSIM would be the easiest option but as you’ve said, that’s not going to be an option. So if it was me I would pick up a few inexpensive PAYG SIM cards (assuming your phones are unlocked). These days EU providers have to provide data across the EU, so any SIM card you buy in Greece should continue to work in Italy and Germany.

I hope this helps a bit, feel free to let me know if you have any follow up questions!

10th September 2023 at 2:15 am

Hello and thank you for a fantastic article! Really helpful. I’m looking at the Netgear nighthawk M2 and would like to use it in Canada and Europe. How do I know if it would work in both places? The M2 is not available on the Netgear US site but the M1 is, which makes me think it may not work in Canada or the US? Would the M1 be able to work in both places? I don’t need the extra speed of the M2 but prefer a newer device. Please explain a bit more about the bands – is this important to check? Thanks so much, and keep on travelling…

10th September 2023 at 3:19 pm

It’s my pleasure, I’m glad you found it useful! So the M1 and M2 do have slightly different specifications. I think that getting devices certified everywhere is a bit of a challenge, so not every device is always released everywhere. In terms of band support, the devices are as follows:

M1: 4G 700/900/1800/2100/2600 MHz

M2: 4G 700/800/900/1800/2100/2300/ 2500/2600 MHz

So you can see the M2 supports more bands so should work on more networks. In terms of Canada and Europe, the main bands in use for 4G are as follows:

Canada main 4G bands:

700, 1700, 2100, 2500, 2600

Europe main 4G bands:

700, 800, 1400, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600

For a device to work it just has to support a majority of the bands in use. Different network providers use different frequency bands, so you also want to check before signing up to a provider which bands they use.

Generally speaing though, the M1 and the M2 should both work in Canada and Europe. The M2 has more bands so should work in more places, but the M1 should generally work as well.

I hope this helps a bit. I appreciate it is not terribly straightforward!

11th July 2023 at 7:21 pm

Thanks again for this informative article and ALL your informative posts. We are going to SE Asia again this fall, as well as to Taiwan, Japan, and HK. We now have an Inseego M2000 5G MiFi, and are on T-Mobile’s Magenta Max 55+ plan. T-Mobile offers high-speed data passes, and I’m wondering if it makes sense to purchase one for the Inseego and then use its wifi with our two iPhones. My thought is that we then won’t need to purchase hi-speed passes for either or both of our phones. Does that make sense?

11th July 2023 at 7:43 pm

This does make sense and this should work. In this case you’d just need to connect your phones to the WiFi network of the Inseego device and you should be good to go.

You could also just buy a SIM card in the destination you are travelling to, although this can be a hassle sometimes depending on where you are going.

Have a great trip!

Juan Peralta says

29th May 2023 at 1:04 am

Hello, this website is really impressive! Thank you for all the info. Do you have any suggestions for a family of 5 where everyone has a phone (all esim only). My wife and I are debating doing 5 e-sim’s or sharing one Hotspot? We are traveling through Europe (Amsterdam, Paris, Switzerland, Greece, Rome etc) Any help would be appreciated!

29th May 2023 at 8:22 pm

Honestly I’d recommend an eSIM for each traveller. A mobile hotspot might work, but it is going to require everyone to be in range of it all the time, whereas having an eSIM for each device will allow each person to separate from the group. Additionally, you won’t need to worry about who is using the data up, each person will have their own data allowance to manage so it is fairer 🙂

For your trip, I’d suggest checking out Airalo (see my Airalo review here , which also has a $3 referral credit you can use). A European eSIM that covers all the destinations you are going to from Airalo will cost you $13 for 3gb for 30 days, $20 for 5gb for 30 days. So that would be my suggestion, although there are other options out there of course.

Have a great trip to Europe, let me know if you have any more questions!

Alex Hansen says

14th April 2023 at 8:26 pm

Great article and explanations. Hoping you can recommend for our situation. We are Americans currently living in United Kingdom for the next 4 months. We are having trouble finding broadband Internet for such a short period as most providers require a 6,12,24-month commitment. We are planning on being digital nomads for a year or two travelling in our caravan. We bought Starlink thinking it would be great everywhere but are getting periodic disconnections and encountering some issues with obstructions and we require reliability. We bought the RV version so we can turn it on and off anytime and are thinking about stopping service. We are planning on visiting Norway, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Germany, Austria, Portugal, Spain, France, then flying to China, Thailand each for one month, then back to the United States.

Would like a top of the line setup and don’t mind shelling out for good gear. So 5G where available and 4G when not is probably what we are looking for. We are a family of 4 and I and am on MS Teams meetings all data while the whole family streams on iPads. Maybe 8 Devices. Was looking at the Netgear MR6450 you recommend for 899 on amazon. Maybe pair this with an external antenna when we are in the caravan. I see a similar router in America for 699 USD, but I fear that it might not support European networks? Guessing we should probably purchase the hotspot in the region we should be using? Would like something that has a travel router so we can connect to the caravan park wifi when available. Is this your recommendation and then just pair this with local sim cards? Would this meet all our objectives? Having trouble finding data on which networks these support and which networks are used in all the countries we are planning on travelling to. Not really sure on how much data we need per month, I see most sim cards are around 30-40 Euro for about 30GB. Would this last us a month, or would we need a couple?

Would like something that we could continue to use in America after our trip but would sacrifice this if needed. Be cool if it supported the latest mm wave fast speeds in the US?

I also see some plans from O2 and Orange that might work just for Europe too. Would appreciate your thoughts.

Thank you in advance for your thoughts.

14th April 2023 at 11:05 pm

Thanks very much! I definitely hear you regarding the broadband issue for short term contracts in the UK (and beyond!). The best option in these situations, as you have already discovered, is going to be a mobile hotspot. I would have thought Starlink would have been a good option but I suspect that it might be more susceptible to bad weather than the marketing would suggest. In the UK you can get SIM cards from brands like ID. Mobile, Smarty or Three, some of which offer unlimited UK data for very reasonable prices. It sounds like for your usage you are going to need quite a lot of data so I would probably recommend an unlimited SIM where possible.

SIM wise, I would probably pick up a SIM in the UK and a separate SIM for the EU. Most UK SIM’s that work in the EU have a maximum data cap of around 12gb a month, whereas an EU SIM should roam across the EU with less caps (although it’s always worth checking). In terms of supported bands, the 4G/5G bands across Europe are pretty similar, so any device that works in one country should work pretty well in the other ones. The US does use a few different bands, but there is generally enough overlap that devices will still work, that has been my experience anyway. You might not get the fastest possible speeds but it will still generally work. It is usually the 5G mmWave bands that are missing, as well as some specific bands that are used to improve coverage in more rural areas. So you would need to check which bands the devices support (not always as easy as it sounds I know).

The two devices you are looking at are the Netgear MR6150 (unlocked US version) and the Netgear MR6450 (unlocked5G Sub6 SA/NSA(3CC)

From what I can tell, the MR6150 supports the following bands:

5G Sub6 SA/NSA(2CC) 4G LTE CAT 19(5CC) 5G Sub6: n2/n5/n12/n14/n25/n29/n30/n41/n48/n66/n71/n77 4G LTE: B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B12/B13/B14/B25/B26/B29/B30/B41/B46/ B48/B66/B71

Whilst the MR6450 supports the following bands:

5G Sub6 SA/NSA(3CC) 4G LTE CAT20(5CC) 3G: B1/B2/B5/B8 4G LTE: B1/B2/B3/B4/B5/B7/B8/B12/B13/B14/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41/B42/B66 5G Sub6: n1/n2/n3/n5/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n40/n41/ n71/n77/n78

So there are some differences, which as far as I am aware are around specific bands that are used to cover more rural areas in either the US or the EU, as well as the mmWave bands for 5G. I can’t say how much of a difference this is going to make in the real world, I’m not sure that mmWave has rolled out to such an extent in the US that it’s going to make a noticeable difference in most places.

I hope this helps a bit, happy to try and provide more input if I can though!

Sharley says

25th November 2022 at 4:41 pm

Great article but I was wondering if you could help me. Our Son is traveling to Taiwan and Thailand for 5 weeks. We are in the US and his phone is locked. We wondering what would be his best option for wifi for the time he is gone that would be less expensive and work in both countries.

25th November 2022 at 5:03 pm

Hi Sharley,

Great to hear from you. So the most cost effective option would definitely be to contact your son’s cellphone provider to see if they will unlock the phone. Many will do it for free, although it will depend on the contract. Then he could pick up local SIM cards in country, or use an eSIM from a company like Airalo .

The next cheapest option is likely going to be to buy a budget 4G router like the Alcatel LINKZONE (model MW41NF-2AOFUS1)

Taiwan uses 4G bands 1,3, 28 and 66, whist Thailand uses 1, 3, 8, 40 and 41. Most networks use bands 1 and 3, which the Alcatel supports. He could then buy SIM cards in country for the device.

There are other options like rental, but for 5 weeks I feel that this would end up being fairly expensive compared to an up front purchase.

I hope this helps!

21st November 2022 at 4:28 am

Hello folks!

Very helpful article, thank you. So much so, that after reading it we bought a Travelwifi Sapphire Power, and recently used it while travelling in Thailand and Singapore. We opted to purchase data plans through Travelwifi.com, which worked seamlessly, and we enjoyed excellent reception and speed everywhere we went. It’s a great device!

Our next trip is to the UK and Europe next year, and I’ve been researching travel SIMs instead of a data plan (the device supports either,) however I’m meeting with quite some confusion. Almost every SIM option I look at stipulates that it is suitable for phones only, and not WiFi devices. One online retailer advised the following:

“Unfortunately we cannot guarantee the SIM to work in a WiFi devices as it needs APN details and data roaming turned on.”

I’ve contacted Travelwifi, who say the device should be compatible with most SIMs, provided they are not locked to a carrier (?) although they did also mention possible issues with some cards’ “settings.”

Do you have any experience with this? Am I able to buy the best value prepaid SIM I can find and whack it in, or am I really restricted to data-only SIMs, which seem to be a lot less common and a lot more expensive?

Thanks for any thoughts!

21st November 2022 at 11:52 am

I’m glad to hear it was helpful and you found the Travelwifi device worked well 🙂

So generally instead of a “travel SIM”, I’d suggest just buying a prepaid SIM card on arrival in the country you are travelling to. In my experience these work fine in hotspots without needing any configuration. I think “travel SIMS” can need more configuration, whereas just buying a local SIM card should just work. In the UK and Europe, SIM cards and data are very competitive, so you should be able to pick one up easily. Personally this has always worked fine for me, although I guess there might be the odd case where it doesn’t.

In terms of a SIM being locked to a carrier, I’m not quite sure what that means. I know a phone can be locked to a carrier, so maybe they mean you wouldn’t be able to take the SIM card from a locked phone and put it in the device. But I think most pay as you go SIMs that you pick up should work fine.

I hope this helps! Have a great trip 🙂

30th September 2022 at 1:42 pm

Hello, So far the best blog explaining in detail regarding Mobile Hotspots! Thank you for explaining it well, easy to read and not too techy.

I am thinking of purchasing the Netgear M2 or GLocalMe as you suggested. I do have TMobile which costs $35 to 10 days for 5GB. By turning off cel connection to some apps I do not need during travel, background refresh, it seems that this may be enough for convenience. I am looking for a cheaper alternative, although, my priority is speed, future proof and convenience. Hopefully if all goes well, I am hoping to travel to Asia and Europe (Japan, Philippines, Australia, Korea. Spain, UK, Italy). Is it easier to use GLocalMe or does netgear offer an eSim that would easily get this online and not have to find a store when getting to the town?

In your experience, this technology will change too fast that buying a device may not be the right option and renting would be easier to use in the next 2-3 years?

1st October 2022 at 5:50 pm

Thanks very much! So 5GB for 10 days should be more than enough assuming you aren’t streaming high definition movies or anything like that. Glocalme is easier because it comes with the data, whereas with the Netgear you have to buy SIM cards, it doesn’t support eSims that I am aware of. In terms of the technology changing, it is likely that most countries will start to switch to 5G, although 4G is definitely going to be around for a good few years to come I think. More devices will also probably start to support eSims, so that is something to consider. So in that regard, you might want to hold off for now and just use your TMobile.

7th August 2022 at 12:21 pm

Hi Just read your article and it’s very informative and well written. I however am very technologically challenged and was wondering if you could please give me some links for my situation 3 families traveling from Australia to Uk for 3 weeks total of 16 people 7 being internet dependent teens who will die if unable to snap , use you tube and watch vids, Roblox and for us adults we generally communicate through fb messages We will be in the Uk for aporox 21 days and would want the cheapest way to give us all access to decent access please. I am happy to look at getting a device for each family I am happy to rent if that is cheaper but happy to also buy if it means we can use in Australia on our regular camping trips Thanks heaps

8th August 2022 at 6:10 pm

Thanks very much! So normally in a situation like this the best option is likely to buy a hotspot outright and then put a data SIM in it when you get to the UK. The UK has pretty cheap data packages available, you should be able to find a data SIM with around 100GB for £12. These are easy enough to buy in person at supermarkets etc.

The main thing when purchasing a device is to consider what bands it supports, particularly for 4G. So in Australia you use the following for 4G: band 1, 3, 5, 7, 28, 40, 42. Different networks use different bands, but you can see them here .

In the UK they primarily use bands 1, 3, 7, 20, 38, 40.

So you can see there is quite a lot of overlap. Bands 3, 7 and 20 are the most commonly used in the UK.

So really you would need to buy a 4G capable hotspot that supports at least bands 3, 7 and 20, and ideally 5 and 42. As there is good overlap between the two countries, most devices that work in Australia should also work in the UK. So for example, this TP-Link M7200 supports 4G bands 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40 + 41, so should cover you in most scenarios.

One other thing to note is that obviously everyone planning on using the device will need to be in range of it. So if you have people planning on heading out seperately, you would either need multiple hotspots or for those who are really addicted to buy their own SIM cards, which are also available very cheaply.

Another option to think about is that many devices these days have built-in hotspot functionality, so it might work out more cost effective to buy a few SIM cards and then use the built-in hotspot feature on your existing devices. As SIM cards and data are so cheap in the UK this might work out to be a cheaper option, and allow the group to have more flexibility.

I hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions and have a great time in the UK!

13th July 2022 at 3:46 pm

Hello, this post was very informative and I am trying to make a decision on buying portable wifi. Will travel shortly to Hungary, Turkey, Slovakia and Italy during which time I will have to work. I am also planning to use it in connection with my phone. I was planning to buy the GlocalMe G4 Pro but it is not available. Any other product you would recommend? I prefer to pay by GB as I am not sure which locations and times I will be able to use a local wifi for work (some of my work apps require a lot of bandwith) and I do not want to get locked into certain days. Thank you

13th July 2022 at 4:15 pm

Glad to hear you found the post helpful! So the first thing to do is check which 4G bands are in use in the countries you are going to. From my research:

Hungary: 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 and 28 Turkey: 1, 3, 7, 8, 20 Slovakia: 3, 7, 20 Italy: 3, 7, 20.

So, a device which supports bands 3, 7 and 20 should work in all of those countries on 4G.

You have two options at this point. You can buy a device which doesn’t come with any data, and then buy a SIM card in each country. This will likely be slightly more cost effective but will be more hassle. If you do this, then something like the Alcatel LinkZone would be a cost effective option, as would the GlocalMe FirstG .

If you’d rather buy a device which has data plans included, then it will depend a bit on which company offers the best deal for the countries you are going to. If you like the pricing of the GlocalMe products, then you might like the U3 for example.

I would add that the G4 Pro is showing available on the Glocalme site, but I’m not sure where you are in the world so it might be different for you 🙂

13th July 2022 at 4:34 pm

OMG – you must have some magic because I have been checking for the device and it was not available. But now it is! So I bought it! Thanks!

13th July 2022 at 4:37 pm

Haha, I’m not sure about the magic but I am happy you got what you wanted 😀 Have an awesome trip!

Melanie says

11th July 2022 at 3:52 pm

Hi Laurence,

Can a portable wifi work with a portable travel router? Or do I only need a portable wifi or a portable router but not both? I travel to the Caribbean more than I go to other places and I am always having issues connecting to the internet. I bought a portable wifi but sometimes I am still not able to connect to the internet. I connect to the device but do not get internet.

12th July 2022 at 11:29 am

Hi Melanie,

So yes, a portable mobile hotspot can work with a travel router, but it shouldn’t be necessary.

Just to be clear, the difference is:

– a portable travel router extends an existing WiFi network. It needs an existing WiFi network to work. So it could extend the WiFi network created by a mobile hotspot, but this wouldn’t add any benefit – a portable mobile hotspot creates a new WiFi network using a cellular data connection, the same way a phone does. It requires cellular reception for internet connectivity.

So in your case where you are sometimes not able to connect to the internet, this normally means the mobile hotspot device does not have cellular signal. So you can connect to the device over the local WiFi network it creates, but you can’t connect to the internet because the device cannot find a signal. Just like you can’t use the internet on your phone if there is no cellular network or WiFi network.

It is also important to check what bands your mobile hotspot uses, and whether those bands are used in the destination you are visiting. Different countries use different bands for cellular networks, so a mobile hotspot that works in one country might not work in another.

I hope this answers your question. It is definitely not an easy subject, so do let me know if you have any follow up questions and I will do my best to help out 🙂

6th July 2022 at 5:56 am

Thanks for this informative article! We are on the T-Mobile Magenta MAX 55+ plan, and have been trying out the Franklin T-9 Mobile Hotspot. When we travel internationally, we usually rent a mobile hotspot device at the airport wherever we are but since we now own the T-9, we are hoping it will do the trick overseas and we won’t have to rent. My husband plays an online game on his laptop and when we are in the car he uses the T-9. Unfortunately, the wifi is spotty (kicks in and out) for some reason and we don’t know enough to recognize if that’s just the nature of portable wifi hotspots or is just because it’s the T-9. What do you think? Should we upgrade to the Inseego (or something else) for our trip to Asia in the fall?

Thanks again for this article, and for sharing your expertise and experience with all of us!

6th July 2022 at 12:15 pm

My pleasure. So looking at the hotspot you have, my research suggests it supports the following 4G bands:

LTE: 2, 4, 5, 12, 25, 26, 41, 66

That means you will get good coverage in the US, but overseas coverage will very much depend on where you are going. Most of Europe for example uses different LTE bands, so the device won’t work there. You can see a good overview of bands by region here .

Additionally, if using it overseas you would have to check with T-Mobile what their pricing policy is for such usage.

For the WiFi being spotty – if this is primarily happening when you are moving, then that’s just the nature of the way these devices work. They connect over the same network as a cellphone, and as you move cellphone coverage varies. So if you are driving in an area with weak coverage, you will get network dropouts.

Let me know if you have any additional questions!

3rd July 2022 at 10:36 am

Hi. Great article. Doing the research has me overwhelmed. Can you please make a recommendation on the following criteria? I live in Italy and rely on my iPad when I’m in town I use the translator a lot because I don’t speak Italian yet. And, I use my iPad when spending the day in my garden which is far from the house. (I don’t use a cell phone for anything but emergencies.) I need: * Wifi that is fast enough to google, message and view short videos. * Something small and light to carry in my pocket. * A very long battery life. * Something I can use when traveling in other countries including the USA. * Economical to midrange in price. * Unlimited data

Right now I use a portable wifi with TIM but they don’t make them anymore and mine is so old the battery doesn’t hold up very long. And, even though I paid for international travel to the US one time it didn’t work.

Your recommendation would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Kathy

3rd July 2022 at 11:43 am

Thanks very much! So based on your requirement I think I would recommend the GlocalMe FirstG . Italy uses 4G bands 3, 7, 20 and 32, and this device includes all of those except 32. It also covers most of the US 4G bands.

Battery life is 14 hours and it weighs 5oz. Speed wise it should be more than capable for your needs.

I would personally suggest separating the device from the data plan. Many devices allow you to buy data with the device, but this tends to work out less economically in the long run. As you are in Italy a lot, you would be better off buying a data SIM for Italy, and then when you are in the US, you can pick up a data SIM in the US. That is likely going to be easier and more cost effective. This device supports micro SIMs, so you would just need to find a good data plan and put the SIM in the device.

Let me know if you have any follow-up questions!

Gerard says

25th June 2022 at 10:00 am

Hi. Just want to thank you for your excellent article. I am going to be placing an order for a roaming wi-fi hotspot and am now much better informed. I currently live in Zambia, Central Africa. I have just subscribed to your monthly news letter.

25th June 2022 at 10:01 am

My pleasure Gerard, glad to be of help!

Dawn Bishop says

19th June 2022 at 5:47 pm

I really appreciate this article! I would value your opinion on renting portable wifi for our trip to Italy in August 2022. Although we can use generally use local wifi options and it would not kill us to minimize our device usage, my son informed me he has a 2 hour college final schedule online for the first full day we arrive. Our experience overseas is that although wifi is available, sometimes the speeds etc. can result in cut-offs etc. So, I think this is one of those times that relying on own wifi is critical.My husband often has to connect with servers at work.

What would you suggest? I was looking into the rental companies, but could use a recommendation.

19th June 2022 at 7:08 pm

Great question! So a little bit will depend on how long you need the data for, as the price can vary as some rental places offer a better deal for a week compared to a day for example. However, I suspect the best value will likely be Hippocketwifi . They do a 10-day rental which will give you 1gb a day for €5.90 a day, or €7.90 a day for unlimited data. If the call involves video I’d go with the unlimited option to be on the safe side. You can also save 5% with the code TRAVELCATS5.

Hopefully that helps. I looked at a number of other options but based on your needs I think that will likely be one of the better value options. Have a great time in Italy, and best of luck to your son with his final!

19th June 2022 at 10:54 pm

Thank you so much! This is very helpful and we will be going with your recommendation. Keep up the great work you are doing!

Veronica says

8th June 2022 at 5:11 pm

Hi im traveling to Mexico in July, with 5 kiddos, we are planning on going to the beach, what do you recommend for us so we can all be connected.

9th June 2022 at 9:59 am

Hi Veronica,

So the best value option would likely be to the Alcatel Linkzone or similar mobile hotspot. Mexico uses band 2 and band 4 for 4G, and bands 2, 4, 5 for 3G. So you would just need a device that supports those bands. The Alcatel supports up to 15 devices, which should be enough for your needs unless you all have more than 2 devices each.

Then when you get to Mexico you can just pick up a SIM card with data. Telcel tend to have the best coverage, and you can get a data package that has 8GB valid for 30 days for 500 pesos. That should be enough for normal social media and browsing, but lots of video streaming would use it up more quickly.

There are other mobile providers in Mexico which might offer different deals, so it is worth checking out. But a low cost 4G router and a SIM card would be my pick.

The other option, if you have a compatible phone, would be to get a Google Fi plan . They have a $65 Unlimited Plus plan which includes 50GB of data you can use overseas, which includes tethering. So you could use your phone as the hotspot. Plans can be stopped and started so you aren’t tied in. The downside of this is that it uses your battery life really fast.

Hope this helps, have a great time in Mexico!

Shelby daye says

18th May 2022 at 7:21 pm

Hi! I need help. I had to move back in with my mother due to the pandemic but we don’t get along at all so I bought a camper to live in on her property. Im a graphic designer running adobe programs all day and I also stream online on twitch at night. I think I need a mobile hotspot that has a strong enough connection to do this and connect to multiple devices. I’ve been researching what to get but I’m a bit confused and lost on what I need and may be the best fit for me. I can’t use the home wifi because the house has cement walls since it’s pretty old so the connection from the living room to outside is weak. The camper is located right outside the house. What can I do?

19th May 2022 at 9:29 am

So a mobile hotspot would be an option, but the downside is that a mobile data plan such as you would need, with unlimited data and reliable connectivity is likely to be fairly expensive. I feel that a better option would be to figure out a way to extend your mother’s WiFi network so it reaches the camper. I’m not sure exactly the setup, but a home mesh wifi network might work, or if you have the option to run an ethernet cable to the camper from the house that is also an option. If you have power going to the camper from the house, you might also look into powerline ethernet, which distributes a network connection over power cables, and just needs a couple of adaptors like these to work.

I think tapping into the existing network, assuming your mom is ok with that, would be the better option rather than a mobile hotspot for cost reasons.

I hope this helps, but if not let me know and I can see what else I can come up with!

19th May 2022 at 6:52 pm

I expected the mobile hotspot data plan would be expensive 🥲. I like your suggestion! I’ll research the home mesh setup option. So, the wifi router is located in the living room of the house. The power going to the camper is plugged in an outlet inside the garage by the garage door. Her air compressor is plugged into it as well. To get wifi via a powerline ethernet connection, where would the adapter have to be plugged in to run the ethernet cable to the camper? Where the plug to power the camper is (the garage) or next to the wifi router inside the house? Is there even a long enough cable for that? Lol I think I can convince her to do this. Never did this before I’m unsure how to set it up and have it work. Thanks!

20th May 2022 at 10:39 am

Hey Shelby,

I would definitely suggest that a mesh setup or powerline ethernet would be the way to go. A mesh setup might be easiest, and will have the added benefit of improving WiFi around the house as well. I have a guide to home wifi routers which includes a number of mesh options which you can see here . With a mesh setup, the main thing is to ensure that at least one of the base stations will be able to be put in a location that gives your camper good connectivity.

Powerline internet works, as the name suggests, by sending data over existing power cables. Normally you put one adaptor close to your existing home router, and plug it in with an ethernet cable. You plug in the other adaptor where you want the internet, this would probably be in your camper, or at the outlet by the garage door if your ethernet line runs that far. The only issue with powerline networking is that it can get flummoxed by things like circuit breakers. So depending on the wiring setup in the house, it may or may not work. I’d suggest if trying it out, it’s worth getting one with a good return policy so if it doesn’t work you can send it back.

As you mention ethernet, I am guessing running an ethernet cable from the router to the RV is out of the question? That would also be an option, but I appreciate running cabling all around a house isn’t always practical! Ethernet cable is usually good for 300ft+, so that wouldn’t be an issue!

Terry Chisman says

2nd May 2022 at 11:38 am

Thanks for this. I live in the UK where we can, for the most part, use our phones quite freely as hotspots so I found this whole subject of hotspots and local / shared data a bit of a mystery. This article cleared up a lot and I used your link through to Amazon to put the Alcatel device in my basket – and as far as I’m concerned you’ve earned any commission you get. Thank you.

2nd May 2022 at 11:41 am

Thanks so much – glad to be able to help and we appreciate you using our links 🙂 It lets us keep doing what we do!

Safe travels 🙂

19th April 2022 at 8:53 pm

Thank you for your detailed and informative article. That was super in-depth and helpful. I am curious though, in your opinion, what you would suggest as a mobile hotspot option for a graphic designer that is looking to work in europe (sweden, portugal, austria and germany) and pushes daily large 1GB+ data back and forth?

In your opinion which would be the best option: NETGEAR Nighthawk M5 5G Mobile Hotspot, Inseego MiFi M2100, or?

I basically need fast, reliable internet (fast.com @ ~500Mpbs) that works anywhere in Europe. Thank you so much for any info.

20th April 2022 at 11:33 am

That is a great question. Unfortunately 5G is not quite so straight forward as different countries use different bands, and you will want a device that supports the bands in the country you plan to work.

For reference, the USA uses n2, n5, n66, n40, n260 and n261. The n260 and n261 bands are super high frequency mmWave bands which is super fast but shorter distance. This technology isn’t being deployed in Europe currently, so 5G speeds in Europe will not be as fast as the USA in areas where mmWave is available. In the USA on mmWave, speeds up to 1Gbps are possible, while in Europe 5G varies between 221Mbps and 81Mbps ( source , 2021).

From your list of countries, the most up to date information I could find is as follows. Note that 5G rollout is ongoing, and different network operators use different bands. Currently, I was able to find that:

Sweden uses n28 and n78 Germany uses n1, n3, n28, n78, n258 Portugal uses n78 Austria uses n1, n28, n78

Generally in Europe the most common band for 5G is n78, which covers the 3.3MHz – 3.8MHz range. If you look at this page you can see which operators in which countries use which bands.

There are two versions of the M5 5G, the MR5100 and the MR5200.

The MR5100 has 5G bands n2, n5, and n66 (datasheet here ) The MR5200 has 5G bands n1, n3, n5, n7, n8, n20, n28, n38, n40, n77, and n78 (datasheet here )

The Inseego MiFi M2100 has bands n2, n5, n66, n260, n261

From this, the MR5200 would be the best option for your destinations. That said, if you reliably need speeds of 500Mbps then I am not sure 5G in Europe is going to deliver that regularly currently.

Hopefully this helps!

S. Halford says

16th April 2022 at 11:28 pm

I’m looking to buy a mobile hotspot for international travel. If I purchase a hotspot device and use a local SIM card for the country I’m in (in the hotspot device) to connect to WiFi, how does that impact my US based phone number? I am not thinking I need to change out the SIM card in my iPhone, only the hotspot device. Is it correct that I will connect my iPhone or laptop to the hotspot device via bluetooth? Will I still be able to send and receive texts at my US based phone number? What about WiFi based phone calls? Will those WiFi phone calls be through my US based phone number and will I be able to receive WiFi phone calls at my US phone number. What about checking voicemail on my US based phone number? My next trip is to Vietnam, Thailand & Singapore but I have future plans to travel to Central and South America. Thanks for your help.

17th April 2022 at 10:28 am

So the setup you describe, with the local SIM card in the hotspot, would not affect your US number at all. As you say, you would not need to switch out the SIM card in your iPhone, so that would work as normal. You would just want to be sure you disable mobile data on your iPhone and only connect using WiFi networks, to avoid a huge bill due to data roaming fees from your US operator.

You then connect your laptop / iPhone to the mobile hotspot via WiFi. It works like any other WiFi network, so your phone will see it, you put in the password, and it connects.

For your phone, you will be able to receive texts on your US number as long as you have mobile reception wherever you are. Be aware that the fee for sending a text will vary, you will need to check with your provider what that might be. It can be quite costly, so it is better to use messaging apps like WhatsApp that send messages over WiFi.

I am not sure about WiFi phone calls but in my experience these don’t work abroad. Instead they use the cellular network which would likely be expensive. For checking voicemail, your carrier should provide you with a number you can call from overseas. However, this will usually be charged at an international rate, so is best avoided if possible. It might be possible if you setup a pin code that you can access it via Skype or similar, which will have a lower calling rate, but you would need to check with your carrier how their voicemail works.

I hope this helps, let me know if you have any further questions!

John Y says

2nd February 2022 at 4:55 pm

Hey guys, Appreciate the in-depth blog here. I was wondering if you are familiar with Google Fi (still researching) and then using the Netgear hotspot along with that. I am still trying to figure out the GFi sim card…?? (They send it to you, once you purchase a phone from them), its called a Nano Sim. I am just not sure if that would fit/work into the Netgear Nighthawk…? Any insight would be much appreciated. We are slow traveling (Covid) as a family through Central America moving south to Guatemala next and making our way after that. All the best to you

4th February 2022 at 11:02 am

Great to hear from you, and thanks. I am familiar with Google Fi, and it would be an option for me if I lived in the US as they have good rates and packages, especially for overseas travel. I believe the Netgear takes a micro SIM rather than a nano SIM, but you can easily buy a cheap adaptor on Amazon like this . The contacts are the same size with all the SIM cards, it’s just the plastic surround which is a different size. So that would definitely work. However you might also want to check out local SIM cards as you travel, as often the data can be very inexpensive compared to US prices. Of course, Fi would be very convenient.

Let me know if I can offer any more insight! We are on a trip at the moment so my responses might be a bit slow, but I will always respond!

6th January 2022 at 4:00 pm

Guys, i loved reading your site. Very informative and useful.

My situ is similar to Ivan but I’m on land in Northern Italy from time-to-time but resident in the UK. I have Android TV, two lap tops and two phones, as a minimum, that used to be connected to TIM unlimited broadband but I cancelled it in March 2020. I am about to restart going back to Italy for a week or so every other month and figured that MiFi would be a better and cheaper option than the broadband monthly fee I was paying.

Would you recommend a mobile hotspot device that I can buy in the UK and insert a SIM card (UK or Italian)?

I don’t mind topping up via an app each time I get close to using the allowance. So, do you have a recommendation that I can purchase in the UK (hardware) and presumably I can use a UK or Italian SIM.

6th January 2022 at 4:20 pm

Great to hear from you! So it used to be that most UK networks allowed for roaming to Italy (and the rest of the EU), but that has mostly stopped since we left the EU. Even Three, who used to offer free roaming to over 70 countries around the world, have started charging a daily fee for new customers.

That was basically a long way of saying, yes, a mobile hotspot is likely going to be your best option. You are going to want one that can handle a good number of devices and that lets you swap out the sim. The most cost-effective option is likely going to be to have one SIM for the UK and one SIM for Italy, and switch between them (I assume from your comment you plan to use the device in both the UK and Italy for your home and travel broadband needs, apologies if I have this wrong).

If that sounds good then any unlocked hotspot device would work, such as the TP-Link M7450 . You would need to look up SIM cards that might suit your needs for the UK and Italy – there’s a list here for Italy, and double check the package allows for data tethering. TP-Link have a few different models depending on how much you want to spend. The M7000 is a lower cost option that might also work for you.

If you would prefer a device which has the choice of using your own SIM or using a data package, then you would be looking at either the GlocalMe U3 or the TravelWifi Sapphire . Would be my recommendation. They are quite similar in terms of the hardware, the main thing to check is the price of data. Normally the convenience comes at a higher cost compared to buying a dedicated SIM, especially if you need lots of data.

Let me know if I can offer any more help 🙂

3rd January 2022 at 1:51 am

Thanks for the amazing, well thought out article. Easily the best I’ve read on the web on the topic. A bit curious what you use for yourselves? I see the photo of netgear M2 next to the laptop so guessing that’s the one you’ve gone with.

Happy new year!

3rd January 2022 at 10:57 am

We do have the M2 yes which we use. It’s handy because it also works as a travel router to extend existing networks. However it is a bit on the expensive side and the M2 specifically isn’t available everywhere. It is a great device though! I also have an unlocked Pixel 3 smartphone which I use when travelling in the UK because it has tethering and I have lots of data on my current provider (Three).

I hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions, and Hapy New Year to you as well!

Estephania says

1st January 2022 at 4:53 pm

Thus far the most robust, well thought out, article on how to choose travel wifi!! Thank you for your in depth knowledge and clear guidance on how to choose wisely.

1st January 2022 at 4:58 pm

Hi Estephania,

Thank you very much – I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks also for taking the time to let me know, it means a lot. Have a great 2022!

Ivan Godoy says

20th October 2021 at 2:00 am

Hey Laurence and Jessica,

Great and informative post. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

I’m actually looking for your wise suggestions as I am a crewmember onboard cruises and we constantly drift to different locations/countries.

While some times Im able to buy a local SIM card, the majority of the time is not possible due to restrictions of shore leave and carriers policies. In addition, the internet plans offered by the ships are little to no efficient and costly.

What I normally use the internet for is to do banking, online shopping, social media, streaming (Netflix) and Nintendo online gaming.

Which mobile hotspot do you think will be my best fit?

Im thinking of buying it to own it and then top up for usage during the time Im onboard (no contracts or monthly fees) but rather a type of pay-as-you-go option as there are months which I won’t be using it as I’m at home on vacation and then I use local carrier connectivity.

I really hope you can give me suggestions on which mobile hotspot and/or router to go for.

Thanks again and looking fwd to your reply.

20th October 2021 at 1:27 pm

Great to hear from you. It sounds like you’ve thought this through and thank you for providing so much information.

I would recommend a product that allows you to add your own SIM card for times when that is possible, but which also comes with the option to use prepaid data packages. I’d say that something like the GlocalMe U3 might be a good option. This supports nano-SIM cards, but also works with GlocalMe’s prepaid packages. They have a wide range of packages, that run from single day, to 30 day, to 365 days. You can also buy them for global usage, regional usage (like Europe), or for specific countries.

So I think that would be the most flexible option. The spec sheet for the G3 is a bit light on information about the nano SIM support, but it is mentioned in the manual. However, you might want to contact GlocalMe in advance of a purchase just to be sure. Alternatively, the G4 Pro definitely supports it.

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Sherif Saad says

4th August 2021 at 1:52 am

Great article, very informative. Thank you Sherif

4th August 2021 at 12:30 pm

My pleasure Sherif, I’m glad you found it useful!

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Where to Travel Next: The 2023 Hot List

By CNT Editors

Nothing makes us more excited to get up and go than putting together our annual Hot List, now in its 27th year. This curated collection of the world’s best new hotels, cruises, restaurants, cultural destinations, and transportation projects is a labor of love for our global team, which spends the year researching, visiting, and vetting the entries to bring you a definitive directory new standards for hospitality. This year, we changed up our approach to destinations, anointing a list of places around the world which appear in multiple Hot List categories—including hotels, restaurants, cruises, museums, and more. The result is a tight, dynamic collection of places you should travel next. Here's where in the world to go now, based on our 2023 winners.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2023 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

It’s hard to imagine a year that New York couldn’t top a Hot destinations list, but there has likely not been a better year in a while than this to do so. New York swept across the categories in 2023 with three hotel openings: a reborn classic in the Hotel Chelsea , a graceful international addition in the Aman New York , and the fun arrival of legacy brand Ritz-Carlton in a neighborhood defined by hotel cool, NoMad. Our New York editors practically fought over which of the top restaurant openings city wide to include, but Brooklyn’s Place des Fêtes has introduced a refreshingly non show-y approach to wine and nibbles that ultimately earned it a spot as one of the world’s hottest restaurant openings. Nearby, Masalawala & Sons from Indian chef of the moment Chindan Pandya continues to be one of the hardest reservations to score in town. And back in the heart of Manhattan, the new Broadway Museum brings visitors closer than ever to the stories of the Great White Way. And to sweeten it all, getting there just got a lot more comfortable: terminals in both LaGuardia and Newark have been completely redone .

There seems to always be plenty of reasons to drop in to this emirate at the crossroads of the world. But this year, a single Dubai hotel makes that case alone: Atlantis the Royal , the sexy, splashy, appropriately over the top mega hotel which opened in January with a Beyonce performance that became the talk of the globe. It ups the wow factor for a place that is already setting the standard for luxury. And yet for all its dazzle, quieter projects delivered with heart and talent now have equal hand in shaping the place. Point in case for this year is the opening of Jun’s , from celebrated expat chef Kelvin Cheung, whose international approach means dishes featuring tempura, chaat, and avocado all in one.

This time last year, Australia still had its borders closed to the world. Upon reopening , it’s exploded with fresh ways to explore the country, including a focus on community-driven sustainability. Sydney is definitely the place to begin any trip there, and this year the Emerald City opened the landmark Sydney Modern Project , which focuses an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art, as the largest expansion to the 150-year-old Art Gallery of New South Wales. Helping the city continue its expansion of hipper, less corporate hotels is the Ace Sydney , which arrived in creative Surrey Hills, bringing its trademark party scene with a cool rooftop restaurant and all-day bar in the lobby.

This South American country is perennially popular. But a pair of openings plays to both its urban and bucolic appeal: In Mendoza, the country’s first female enologist, Susana Balbo, opened SB Winemaker’s House and Spa Suites inside a 100-year old property with art, exceptional cuisine, and a hyper focus on wine. It may just be a game changer in terms of places to stay in this area. And back in Buenos Aires, the revolutionary Kōnā Corner is from acclaimed Argentine chef Narda Lepes and her passion for all things Japanese. The standout dishes include agedashi tofu, Hanetsuki gyoza, tonkatsu, miso beurre blanc trou, and fukusai.

When it comes to big Scandinavian cities, Oslo often plays understudy to foodie Copenhagen or stylish Stockholm. But we think this is the year for Norway’s capital to really take center stage. One reason is the new, buzzy Sommerro hotel . Located in the heart of the city’s Frogner neighborhood, the 231-room property channels the building’s 1930s origins, tapping into the period’s glamour with gusto—hand-knotted rugs, inlaid wooden headboards, and deco chandeliers. With seven smart bars and restaurants, including Tak Oslo, a Nordic-Japanese spot and the city’s only rooftop restaurant, the hotel has become a lodestar for the city’s cool crowd. Adding to Oslo’s fresh shine is the new National Museum , which brought the the collections of the former National Gallery, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Norwegian Museum of Decorative Arts and Design together in one very large, minimalist-mod building. The museum spotlights Norwegian art through the ages, think Edvard Munch’s  The Scream , but also shines a light on Indigenous Sámi artwork.

Bangkok is, of course, one of Southeast Asia’s biggest, busiest cities. It’s hot, humid and hectic—in the best of ways. It’s a city of minimal, sleek luxury hotels, gilded Buddhist temples, and some of the best street food in the world. But what we find so intoxicating about this city–and why it’s one of our Hot List destinations–is its ability to surprise us. This past year saw the arrival of the bright and boldly-decorated The Standard Bangkok Mahanakhon , which brought a new sense of playfulness to the city’s hotel scene. Chef Prin Polsuk, one of Bangkok's most decorated Thai chefs, opened Velas, where he delivers exciting dishes that defy culinary borders. And just when we think we have the brief on this most urban of metropoles, the Benchakitti Forest Park , an expansive green space with 100 acres of tropical trees and trails, opens smack in the center of the city.

It feels like a pretty major statement to say that Antarctica is one of the global destinations that we’re most excited about this year. It feels like an even bigger deal to announce that, for the first time in the 27-year history of our annual Hot List, we’ve included a hotel located in Antarctica . That honor goes to the adventure-chic Echo camp , with its six freestanding, futuristic pods that look out at the dramatic mountains of Queen Maud Land. Further proof that experiencing Antarctica is more appealing than ever: three of our Hot List cruise ships—Silversea’s  Silver Endeavor , Aurora Expedition’s  Sylvia Earle ,  and Seabourn’s  Venture —all sail to the seventh continent.

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The best mobile hotspot in 2024: top 4G LTE and 5G hotspots for working from home

Stay connected wherever you are with the best mobile hotspot around today

• Best overall
• Best hybrid
• Best 4G LTE
• How to choose
• How we test

1.  Best overall 2. Best 5G 3. Best hybrid 4. Best 4G LTE 5. Best UK 6. FAQ 7. How to choose 8. How we test

The best mobile hotspot in 2024 is more relevant than ever in today's fast-paced environment, and one can find a range of options offering fast, secure internet connectivity virtually anywhere around the globe. These devices are particularly vital for those needing a reliable and secure internet connection for business purposes, where using public Wi-Fi hotspots might pose security risks.

The advancement in mobile network technology means you no longer have to compromise on internet speed. With 4G, users can experience speeds that rival traditional broadband connections, especially in areas with strong network coverage. This ensures a smooth browsing experience, often surpassing the performance of free or shared Wi-Fi spots that typically come with data limits and heavy traffic.

Moreover, the expansion of 5G coverage is revolutionizing internet connectivity. 5G, the latest in mobile internet technology, offers speeds that not only match but often exceed those of broadband internet. This rapid pace of 5G adoption is gradually bringing more 5G mobile hotspots into the market. While the options are still growing, we include only the best in our list, ensuring they meet high standards of performance and reliability.

For those relying heavily on mobile data for work or personal use, the transition from 4G to 5G can be a game-changer. Some network providers are even offering upgrades from 4G to 5G contracts at no extra cost. Investing in one of the best 5G mobile hotspots could significantly enhance your productivity and internet experience.

As technology continues to evolve, we're also beginning to see the emergence of the best Wi-Fi 6E routers that feature 5G connectivity as well. These routers promise even faster and more efficient internet connectivity, making them an exciting development in the world of mobile hotspots. Stay tuned as we guide you through the best mobile hotspot options available in 2024, helping you stay connected, secure, and productive wherever you go.

• We’ve also rounded up the best mobile broadband deals
• Check out the best powerline adapters for expanding your network

The best mobile hotspot of 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The Best mobile hotspot overall

1. inseego 5g mifi m1000, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you're a Verizon customer who can get the company's 5G network, the great news is that the Inseego 5G MiFi M1000 is your best 5G hotspot. It offers dual-band Wi-Fi support and includes USB-C and Ethernet tethering for devices requiring a wired connection. 

The battery life is large enough to power you throughout the day and charges quickly. The only issue is that while this is great for Verizon customers if you're not with the network or live outside the US, this isn't the right choice for you - so check out our other picks below.

On the hunt for a new webcam for your next business meeting? Then make sure to check out our review of the best business webcams .

The Best 5G mobile hotspot

2. htc 5g hub.

The HTC 5G Hub is the best 5G mobile hotspot money can buy. Sure, there's not much competition out there now, as 5G is still relatively new, but HTC has come out of the gate with a winner.

EE, the UK's biggest network provider, offers data subscriptions with this hotspot. 

It's not cheap – you pay £100 upfront and then £50 a month for 50GB of data – but you are getting a very accomplished kit.

It can handle up to 20 wireless devices connected simultaneously, which should be enough for most households, and an Ethernet port for wired devices. 

A powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 processor powers the device, and a 5-inch HD touchscreen gives you all the information you need to keep an eye on your 5G network. It also has a large battery life that should keep you going while you're out and about.

The Best mobile and Wi-Fi hotspot

3. netgear nighthawk m6 pro wi-fi router.

This small, portable mobile router makes a great companion for business travelers and remote working. The M6 Pro is a beast of a hotspot that offers some of the latest and greatest features for staying connected on the go. The device comes unlocked for all major mobile networks and supports 5G data speeds with WiFi 6E connectivity. 

The built-in battery provides about 13 hours of run time, plenty for a full day’s work, and offers 2.4GHz, 5.0GHz, and the new 6.0GHz frequency bands. Also included is a mains power adapter for working indoors near an outlet.

While it may be overkill for some, for those who need the fastest speeds and all-day connectivity, the Nighthawk M6 should jump to the top of your list.

Read the full review: Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro Wi-Fi Router

The Best 4G LTE hotspot

4. tp-link m7350 v4 4g lte mobile hotspot.

The TP-Link M7350 may be a little chunkier than some of the other top mobile hotspots on this list, but it remains an excellent mobile hotspot that supports both micro and nano SIM cards. This means it will almost certainly be compatible with your own SIM card. 

It has a small display informing you about your connection and supports dual-band Wifi on both 2.4 and 5GHz. Up to 10 devices can access it simultaneously, and performance is very good on 4G LTE. It's also unlikely to run out of juice when you need it most, with a 2000mAh battery that guarantees around eight hours of 4G connectivity.

Need some tips on sending large files without requiring bloated emails? Check out our list of the best ways to send large files in 2024

The Best mobile hotspot in the UK

5. ee 4gee wifi mini mobile hotspot.

The EE 4GEE WiFi Mini is one of the better-looking mobile hotspot devices on this list, and its compact design means it can be easily carried around with you. The 1500mAh offers up to 50 hours on standby and six hours when connected to the internet. 

It can support up to 10 devices at once, but it doesn't have an LCD screen, like the TP-Link M7350, so it's not quite as user-friendly. You also need to use the EE network, which isn't too much of a hardship due to EE's coverage and fast 4G speeds, and the network offers a range of data plans to go alongside the EE 4GEE WiFi Mini. 

However, if you want something more future-proof, check out the HTC 5G Hub at the top of this list of EE's best mobile hotspots.

Best mobile hotspot: Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mobile hotspot.

A mobile hotspot can be plugged in almost anywhere to provide users with a mobile Wi-Fi network. It does so by connecting to a 4G or 5G data network and transmitting a secure Wi-Fi connection that can be used by a limited number of users who have required login details. 

The best mobile hotspots: how to choose

There are several factors to consider when aiming to whittle down the choice of the best mobile hotspots to just one. 

First, consider the reasons behind your interest. If security is a big concern - and with public Wi-Fi hotspots not usually secure and often unreliable, it certainly should be - then you might want to consider mobile hotspots that offer robust security features or additional ethernet ports. Speed should also be a consideration, and you might wish to purchase a hotspot that is 5G compatible when this becomes more prevalent. 

Lastly, consider how many users the hotspot will have. If it's just you, you'll have a pick of the lot, but if you're in a business with upwards of ten users, you'll have a more limited selection.

The best mobile hotspots: How we test

On this page, we've looked at mobile hotspots that offer the best speed, the number of devices they can accommodate, and other key factors such as port availability and dual-band capability. 

The 4G and 5G mobile hotspots we've listed are battery-powered modem routers that use a SIM card that connects to the internet via cellular data and broadcasts a secure Wi-Fi network to which you can connect your device.

Note that while we've analyzed and rated the technical performance of each hotspot, we haven't touched upon the running costs, which will vary according to your provider. As with smartphone SIM cards, you'll need a data contract and pay for the service, either a monthly rolling contract or a pay-as-you-go SIM , which can be a more affordable choice if you only need to use these devices sporadically. 

• Don't forget to check out the best wireless routers

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Désiré has been musing and writing about technology during a career spanning four decades. He dabbled in website builders and web hosting when DHTML and frames were in vogue and started narrating about the impact of technology on society just before the start of the Y2K hysteria at the turn of the last millennium.

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The best winter-sun destinations

By Olivia Morelli

Summer may be well and truly over in the UK as back to school season begins but it's just getting started elsewhere in the world. Or better yet, it's continuing in some places that are closer to home – where it's possible to grasp onto a sunny holiday right up until November. From tropical islands to desert escapes, we’ve collated the destinations that offer warm weather during the winter, as well as smart places to stay, covetable culture and a brilliant food scene. For more ideas, see our guide to the best winter sun destinations in Europe .

The Maldives

Flight time: 10 hours When to go: December–April Average winter temperature: 28°C

There is no bad time to go to the Maldives. There is nothing bad about going to the Maldives at any time ever. They are perfect little islands, whichever you choose – tiny castaway-fantasy sandy islets, mostly with one immaculate resort, with various levels of splendidness. Even people who think they will get bored in the Maldives end up loving the Maldives. They're family-friendly , and for blissed-out beachy nirvana, they're hard to beat. And they're at their best during the British winter, and a quite do-able 10 hours away.

Where to stay: It's hard to beat Gili Lankanfushi, which sits on what might be the most beautiful lagoon in the country. We also love Alila Kothaifaru on the natural island of Kothaifaru, with its spattering of jungle-y vegetation between villas creating a truly private retreat. For some of the best snorkelling around, the Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa is located in one of the Maldives’ deepest, most northern atolls, ensuring plenty of marine life to peek at among the fluttering corals. See more of the best hotels in the Maldives

See more of the best hotels in the Maldives

Flight time: 4 hours 30 minutes from London When to go: March–May; October–November Average winter temperature: 22°C

The eastern Mediterranean Sea around Cyprus may be chilly in winter, but the island gets plenty of sunshine all year, so there's a good chance you'll get T-shirt weather even in the coldest months. From March, the island's flowers start to bloom, and there's barely another visitor in sight. It's a great option for families too as it's only a short hop from the UK and there are plenty of child-friendly hotels once you're there.

Where to stay: Anassa in Latchi made our Gold List this year as one of the best hotels in Europe . The elegant series of white buildings is particularly beloved for its multigenerational appeal thanks to a super slick kid's club and effortlessly chic adult-only spaces. For a child-free stay, adults-only Amavi is a glossy beachside bolthole with a fantastic rooftop sushi restaurant. Foodies will like Cap St George , with its seventh-floor restaurant offering incredible sea views and a regular rotation of Michelin-star chefs flown in from across the globe. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Cyprus .

Flight time: 7 hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 26°C

For year-round sunshine, spotless beaches and impeccable service a short hop away, Dubai is an obvious choice. The Palm, a manmade sweep of beach packed with superb hotels, each with its own immaculate patch of beach, is perfect for family holidays . It's not all glass and shopping malls in Downtown Dubai: the Old Souk is a warren of glittering jewellery and pots, and the peaceful Dubai Creek hints at a time before the seven-star hotels and indoor ski slopes. Two new creative districts (Dubai Design District and Al Quoz) have gained the attention of the international art scene, too. To see the city in its best light, go in November, when it's not too humid and you can happily bronze by the pool all day.

Where to stay: The newly-renovated Bab Al Shams now has a bright, contemporary aesthetic that remains true to its Arabian roots, with new restaurants and fantastic sunset views. For some old-world glamour, there's the maximalist marble-clad palace Jumeirah Al Qasr , which made our Gold List in 2023 . And it’d be remiss not to mention Atlantis the Royal , the self-described ‘most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world’, which saw Beyoncé perform at its opening celebration. See our best hotels in Dubai guide for more.

Flight time: 16.5 hours from London When to go: Bali is hot year-round. It is rainiest (and thus cheapest) November–April; but even when it rains, it's in short, tropical bursts. Average winter temperature: 27°C

Bali is the heavenly island with earthly pleasures. Back-to-blissed-out spa retreats so fine that Bali has developed a style all of its own: clean and contemporary, dark wood and linen whites. Parties, from flip-flop full-moon raves in hidden-away coves to the cool Potato Head Beach Club and The Lawn at the boho beach spot that everyone's talking about, Canggu . There's glamping here now, and chic boutiques. There's art in Ubud . There are spas absolutely everywhere. There are beaches, of course. And the pools here are something else: a classy, jungly deep green, shrouded by tropical leafery. Those incredible horizon pools high up overlooking rainforest – that's classic Bali.

Where to stay: Book ahead and you could nab a night in one of the world's most popular Airbnbs, The Hideout , a magical looking two-story bamboo hut in Selat. In Ubud, Capella Ubud is an African-inspired jungle camp home to 22 one-bedroom suites with sprawling outdoor decks and private plunge pools. At the edge of the Uyung River, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve has a gilded, glittering on-site temple, spacious villas with jungle views and spa treatments by renowned intuitive healer Ibu Ketut Mursi. See our edit of the best hotels in Bali for more.

Flight time : 13 hours from London to Mahé (including one stop) When to go : October–November Average winter temperature: 29°C

Adrift in the Indian Ocean , a thousand miles from the nearest coast of Africa , the Seychelles are the ultimate fantasy-island escape.  The archipelago has year-round heat and sunshine, as well as its fair share of rain. The wettest months in the Seychelles are November to March, but temperatures never get too oppressively hot (meandering around 24ºC at night and up to 29ºC in the daytime, year round). October is a great month to go for a hit of sunshine, before it gets too rainy, and the air is fresher.

Where to stay: Its private-island resorts – North Island , Denis Island , the Six Senses Zil Pasyon – are possibly the most sensational anywhere in the world, a honeymooner 's dream (even William and Kate honeymooned at North Island, though the hotel is too discreet to admit it). For more options, see our guide to the best Seychelles hotels . 

Flight time: 12 hours from London  When to go: May–December Average winter temperature: 28°C

What Mauritius has over its Indian Ocean neighbours, the Seychelles and the Maldives, is its size and natural diversity, and the fact that you can do it independently. Its beaches are still potted tropical paradises, and here you can rent a car and go exploring to find your own deserted cove, drive or hike up into its rainforested hills, take a boat out and go snorkelling or dive in its extraordinary underwater world. It has a bit of a reputation for overly groomed resorts – but it also has some of the finest beach hotels in the world, and you can find little boutique hotels right on the beach, too. Perhaps the best months to go to Mauritius are September, October and November, when it's hot but not too hot (averaging around 25-28ºC in the day, a cooler 17-19ºC at night), and at its driest (the rainy season in Mauritius is from January til April).

Where to stay: The most spectacular stay might be Shangri-La Le Touessrok , a private island escape with two pristine golf courses, a pagoda-style spa and a sushi restaurant. For a fun Soho house-style atmosphere try LUX* Grand Baie – there's a poolside DJ, a rooftop athletics track and a nightclub underneath its fabulous Asian restaurant Ai KISU. See our best hotels in Mauritius guide for more.

Canary Islands

Flight time: 3 hours 30 minutes from London When to go: Year-round Average winter temperature: 22°C

It's summer all the time in the Canaries, where temperatures average in the low-mid 20s all year round. As well as the well-known destinations – Gran Canaria , Tenerife , Fuerteventura, Lanzarote (pictured) – there are three smaller islands that are less visited and less spoilt: La Palma , El Hierro and La Gomera . They don't appear on the average British holidaymaker's mental world-map, and make for interesting exploring and winter sunshine.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton in Tenerife made our Gold List in 2022 – a pastel-pink, Moorish palace mansion of a hotel with eight restaurants, a handful of swimming pools and a decadent spa.

Thai islands

Flight time: 13 hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 32°C

The islands of Thailand are the stuff of castaway fantasies. White sand, rustic-chic beach shacks, a hammock gently swaying between two palm trees as a turquoise sea laps at the shore… There are dozens to choose from, and each offers something quite different, from the super-spas of Koh Samui to barefoot beach-bum in Koh Lipe, while Koh Lanta remains quietly chilled out with lovely places to stay on beaches that stretch for miles.

Where to stay: On Phang Nga, Six Senses Yai Noi has created the perfect castaway experience via a collection of stilted thatched-roof villas and a hilltop half-moon infinity pool. If you're headed to Phuket, Amanpuri has a special location on Pansea beach, plus an impressive selection of restaurants and a world-beating spa. For something the kids will love, the railway-themed InterContinental Khao Yai Resort has upcycled vintage railway carriages serving as suites, and an old-timey ticketing booth for a lobby. See the best hotels in Thailand for more.

Sophie Heawood

Charlotte Davey

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli

Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

Flight time: 10+ hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 24°C

Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, on the Atlantic Coast, has a magical mix of ancient and buzzy-right-now cultures. Swim in its green ceynotes, discover temples, salute the sun beneath the glitterball gods with fashionistas on the beach in Tulum . Mix it up in colonial Mérida . Go barefoot on Isla Holbox . The best time to come is during Britain's darkest months.

Where to stay: Beachside retreat Hotel Esencia , beloved by celebrities such as Bella Hadid and Lupita Nyong’o, made our gold list of the best hotels in the world for 2023. Likewise Habitas Bacalar , a small – just 34 rooms – off-the-beaten track stay that hosts local vendors for guests experiences and uses traditional Mayan cooking techniques within its restaurant. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Mexico .

Taghazout, Morocco

Flight time: 3 hours 50 mins from London When to go: December–March Average winter temperature: 21°C

Once a slightly rough-around-the-edges hippie town, Taghazout is now Morocco ’s top surf destination. The sleepy fishing village on the Atlantic coast hasn’t lost any of its old-fashioned charm, and goats still wander gormlessly through the dusty tangerine-coloured streets while fishermen haul in their daily catches from rickety blue and white boats. For serious surfers, winter marks the beginning of peak season, and as the swell rips up, the break-chasing crowds arrive. Temperatures usually hover around a very pleasant 20°C, but Saharan winds often push the mercury up much higher. The places to stay keep getting smarter, offering surf lessons in the day and rooftop yoga at sunset. And even if you’re not into surfing, there are plenty of beautiful hiking trails nearby, camel rides along the beach and excellent fishing too.

Where to stay: 15-room, Afro-inspired Munga Guesthouse is owned by former pro surfer Mounir Bouallaq.

Flight time: 7 hours from London When to go : October–March Average winter temperature: 24°C

The mid-Atlantic archipelago of Bermuda , mythical setting for Shakespeare's Tempest , is a land of pink beaches, pink houses and brightly coloured shorts. It is Caribbean in nature, though it's much closer to the UK – so shorter flight times – and has a distinctive character all of its own. Its pink-sand beaches are lovely, too. Those along the South Shore are the glory of the island. Horseshoe Bay is the best known and most crowded, though Warwick Long Bay, a short way along the coast, is just as alluring. At one end of Horseshoe there is a little patch of sand the size of a playground, cut off from the rest of it by a rocky hillock.

Where to stay: We like the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club , a 19th-century retreat set right on the capital's harbour.

Flight time: 10 hours from London When to go: Year-round Average winter temperature: 21°C

'The Golden State' is an appropriate nickname; California is one of the sunniest of US states, with mild winters, little rain and plenty of sunshine, especially in the south. For a classic USA road trip , hire a convertible and hit the Pacific Coast road. State Route 1 runs 550 miles from Leggett all the way down to Malibu. It has famously beautiful views much of the way, and the best section is that from San Francisco through Monterey and San Simeon to San Luis Obispo (where the road drifts inland), although north of San Francisco the route is wilder and less crowded. Aim to drive southwards, to be closer to the sea.

Where to stay: In Los Angeles, The Hoxton has brought a healthy dose of European flair to the West Coast. For a classic stay, Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica has come to embody the finest of So-Cal's barefoot luxury. In San Francisco, Proper is a buzzy stay beloved for its eclectic decor and perennially-packed rooftop bar, Charmaine’s. See our edit of the best hotels in California for more.

Bora Bora, Tahiti & French Polynesia

Flight time: One full day from the UK When to go: Year-round (though March is particularly rainy on Tahiti). Average winter temperature: 28°C

In both geography and spirit, just about as far from a drizzly British winter as you can get. French Polynesia is made up of 100-odd little islands in the South Pacific Ocean, the best-known of them Tahiti and Bora Bora. They are out of this world. Castaway fantasy, ringed by reefs; the water unbelievable shades of turquoise blue; the hibiscus flowers Gauguin bright; everything bright and light and hyper-real.

Where to stay: The Brando is the area's biggest-hitting hotel – owned by Marlon Brando and set on a stunning, living coral reef. 

South Africa

Flight time: 12 hours from London When to go : November–March Average winter temperature: 27°C

It might be in another hemisphere, but South Africa is in the same time zone as the UK – which means no jet lag. In Cape Town and beyond there is stunning scenery, breathtaking beaches, as well as world-class wines and fabulous food.The country's most celebrated stretch of coastline is the glorious Garden Route. However in the other direction, a road trip through the Western Cape makes a rewarding alternative and the weather is particularly good in December and January. The less-explored Overberg Coast has wide beaches, good restaurants and wineries, moody seas at the southernmost tip of Africa, and a sensational coastal reserve that even the locals don't know about.

Where to stay: In Cape Town, check into The Silo , which sits on top of the Museum of African Art. Just over an hour's drive away Leeu Estates (pictured) in Franschhoek is an arty stay for post-safari relaxation. 

Rajasthan, India

Flight time: 8 hours from London When to go: October–March Average winter temperature: 25°C

With its cities of pink, blue and gold, its romantic lakeside palaces and desert camps, Rajasthan is India 's brightest and most beautiful state. Go there and get carried away, whether you're getting stuck into the hustle-bustle streets of Jaipur , escaping into the desert around Jaisalmer, or floating wistfully across the lake in romantic Udaipur.

Where to stay: Six Senses Fort Barwara took almost a decade to transform the 700-year-old fort into a 48-suite hotel. Its small garden grows everything from desi roses to cauliflower, cabbage, guavas, and jamun, while the ancient temple spa blends Ayurveda with Six Senses’ inimitable touch. Read more at our Six Senses Fort Barawara review .

Flight time : about 10 hours from London When to go : November–December, and March Average winter temperature: 25°C

Once a hiding place for pirate treasure and prohibition liquor, Harbour Island in the Bahamas is a colourfully eccentric retreat where every night is a party and every day more vibrant than the last. The sand is pink, the turquoise water is home to green sea turtles and orange starfish, and yellow-throated birds fly about the trees. Days on the beach are long and lazy, and the time of day forgotten.

Where to stay: For a boutique stay, The Other Side is a small, gorgeous set of tents and shacks on Harbour Island. 

Tel Aviv, Israel

Flight time: 5 hours from London When to go: March–May; October–November Average winter temperature: 23°C

Israel enjoys around 300 days of sunshine a year – and although winter here may not be as scorching as some of the other big-hitters, if you come towards the beginning or end it’s still warm enough to lie on a beach. The modern Middle Eastern metropolis of Tel Aviv is just a five-hour flight from London, making it an easy long-weekend hop. With its skyscraper skyline, striking Bauhaus architecture, avant-garde art galleries, world-class restaurants and hedonistic after-dark culture, this is the Mediterranean’s very own version of Manhattan. Throw in 14km of beautiful coastline, and it’s easy to see why so many creatives are drawn to the vibrant city.

Where to stay: One-time 19th-century convent The Jaffa , in the city's Arabic district, is the most ambitious design hotel. 

Flight time: 5 hours 10 minutes from London When to go: February–May (south); March–May and September–October (north) Average winter temperature: 21°C

Jordan is full of surprises. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, to give it its full name, has wonders both natural and ancient. It's true that much of the country is desert (seemingly endless Wadi Rum has even doubled as the moon in Hollywood movies), but there are also swathes of fertile land, bright and beautifully green. The waters of the Red Sea, off the coast of Aqaba, are bath-warm all year – and colourful, too, home to myriad fish, rays and turtles which make their home on the full-of-life coral reefs – and the best time to go for beach weather is February til May. Meanwhile, winters can be chilly in the north of the country, where snow caps the magnificent treetops of the Ajloun Forest Reserve; and the best months to go to ancient Petra, Amman and the north are March, April, May, September and October.

Where to stay: Feynan Eco-Lodge is one of the only places to stay under the stars at the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

Flight time: 7 hours and 15 minutes from London When to go: October–April Average winter temperature: 26°C

Oman is a less-glitzy, laid-back alternative to Dubai – only the landscape here is more dramatic: wide open spaces punctuated by oases and desert towns; valleys fragrant with rose and sandalwood; hidden coves with golden beaches and brilliant-turquoise water. The capital, Muscat dazzles in the year-round sunshine with its grand mosques and bustling souks. Up in the far north-east, the Musandam Peninsula has some of the best diving in the Middle East (whale shark and turtles are the big draw).

Where to stay: Six Senses Zighy Bay is on a golden sweep of sand backed by the impossibly steep Al Hajar Mountains. To feel truly isolated, camp in handmade Bedouin tents among the epic sand dunes of the Wahiba Sands south of Muscat – it's the best way to find authentic Oman.

Flight time: 13+ hours from London When to go: October–April Average winter temperature: 27°C

With its lovely Caribbean climate, guaranteed warm and sunny days and very little rain, Cuba ’s weather is at its most reliable during the UK winter. The beaches down on the south coast may get the best sunshine and draw the biggest crowds, but there’s plenty beyond the palm-fringed stretches of sand. Havana ’s got its colourful pastel-hued buildings, cigars and Cadillacs, while the perfectly preserved Spanish colonial architecture in UNESCO-protected Trinidad makes the city feel lost in time. Elsewhere, there’s no end of nature reserves, lush forests, mountains and tobacco plantations to explore.

Where to stay: Gardens Havana is a sweet guesthouse in a faded, renovated townhouse in Havana. 

Western Australia

Flight time : 20 hours from London When to go : November–March Average winter temperature: 35°C

The north-west coast of Western Australia is remote (it closed its boarders to the rest of Australia for over two years during Covid), beautiful and largely uninhabited. It has the least-visited of all Australia's coral reefs, Ningaloo Reef, a pristine 260km stretch of coral where thrilling encounters are fairly routine, whether you're diving or snorkelling. Turtles nest from November to March.

Where to stay: Como the Treasury in Perth is the city's smoothest stay, with a rooftop restaurant and beautiful bedrooms. 

Flight time: 14+ hours from London (via Johannesburg) When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 27°C

Astonishingly, Namibia gets barely half a million visitors a year – while neighbouring South Africa receives almost 10 times that number. But as travellers are slowly beginning to discover, this is one of Africa’s most fascinating destinations: rugged, intrepid and dramatic. More than a dozen new camps and lodges have opened up over the past few years, each one rocking a more creative approach to conservation. Namibia is usually touted as a year-round destination, but in truth the searing summer temperatures can be oppressive. November to March may coincide with the country’s wettest months, but with the rain comes a stunning transformation of scenery. The arid desert morphs into a lush green carpet; swarms of migratory birds arrive, and animals start breeding. Rain is localised and comes in short, sharp bursts, so it’s unlikely to have too much of an impact on your trip.

Where to stay: Habitas Namibia offers an intriguing blend of safari , wellness and culture. For more, see our favourite off-grid safaris in Namibia .

Flight time: 16+ hours from London (via Houston) When to go: December–April Average winter temperature: 30°C

Belize ’s peak season coincides perfectly with the UK’s coldest months. Although temperatures remain high all year-round, January to March has the lowest chance of rain, making this an ideal time to explore this tiny adventure-packed nation. Bordered by Guatemala and Mexico, Belize attracts a fraction of the crowds of its neighbours, yet the natural and cultural diversity of this former British colony is truly compelling. It’s home to Mayan ruins, national parks, nature reserves and the Belize Barrier Reef (which forms part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the world’s second largest), all begging to be explored. The country’s jungly interior contrasts with a dazzling Caribbean coastline and hundreds of small cayes and islands, while a flurry of fresh hotels have all put eco-tourism at the top of their agenda.

Where to stay: At rattan- and plant-filled Itzana .

Lamu, Kenya

Flight time: 17+ hours from London, via Nairobi When to go: December–February Average winter temperature: 32°C

When the Foreign Office slapped a travel ban on Lamu after the 2011 Somali terrorist attacks, it fell off the map. But now with sanctions lifted, crowds are starting to flock back to this far-flung African island that still feels totally unchanged by time. It’s long been a popular beachy bolt-on after an epic Kenyan safari, attracting curious travellers rather than flag-following sightseers. There are no vehicles, just donkeys and dhows, and the heady mix of Arab, Persian, Chinese, Indian and European cultures is mesmerising. After a few days in the UNESCO-protected Old Town, head south to the deserted beaches or drift over by dhow to the nearby Robinson Crusoe islands of Manda and Kiwayu. From December to February, temperatures average a steamy 32°C, making winter the prime time to come and enjoy the postcard-perfect empty sands and Lamu’s laid-back rhythm.

Where to stay: Seafront Peponi was built in the 1930s and has been a hotel since the 1960s, with an incredible pool, shady verandah and a list of former guests that includes Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall. 

Zihuatanejo, Mexico

Flight time: 17+ hours from London (via Mexico City) When to go: December–April Average winter temperature: 30°C

Over on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, two beach towns sit side-by-side: Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo . They couldn’t be more different. Ixtapa, stacked with high-rise hotels and modern infrastructure was purpose-built for tourists, while, just round the bay, Zihuatanejo has kept hold of its old-world charm and sleepy-fishing-village feel. It’s a low-key beach retreat with genuine Mexican flair; fisherman flog their catches on the shore each morning, and the town centre is filled with historical cobbled streets and a buzzy market. Clutches of boutique properties sit right on the beach or overlooking the bay – which is a hit with surfers. It’s hot all year round, but October to April sees the least rain, making this a perfect spot for a hit of winter vitamin D.

Where to stay: We love the Thompson , which spotlights interiors from Mexico City-based studios.

Gulf of Chiriquí, Panama

Flight time: 13+ hours from London When to go: December–March Average winter temperature: 32°C

The Gulf of Chiriquí is nothing new – travellers have long been flocking to the white-sand beaches and dazzling turquoise waters of Panama ’s Caribbean archipelago. But the Pacific side is still significantly less discovered. There’s Islas Secas, a highly exclusive, privately-owned archipelago of 14 islands offering pristine beaches and one of the largest coral reefs in the Pacific, making it the perfect spot for diving and snorkelling. It's just under an hour from Panama City by twin-otter plane and is totally worth it for the privacy and seclusion once you arrive. The best time to come is from January to April, when the wet rainy season gives way to a few months of glorious sunshine and scorching temperatures.

Where to stay: Philanthropist Louis Bacon opened Islas Secas , home to four individually designed Casita sites and, three Tented Casitas, all located on one of the islands and sleeping up to just 24 guests.

São Tomé and Príncipe

Flight time: 20+ hours from London (via Lisbon and Accra) When to go: December–February Average winter temperature: 30°C

Marooned off the coast of Gabon, these tiny unspoiled islands together make up Africa’s smallest and least-visited country. But it’s thanks to the tiny tourist numbers that São Tomé and Príncipe still retain the allure of somewhere almost completely undiscovered. These jungly islands are home to more endemic species per square mile than anywhere else on earth – making them a bit like Africa’s very own Galápagos . January, February and March are the hottest months, when the dry and dusty winds blow straight in from the Sahara.

Where to stay: When South African billionaire Mark Shuttleworth opened up his first boutique hotel, Bom Bom , back in 2013, a new breed of luxury traveller arrived; since then, he’s opened two more, Roça Sundy and Praia Sundy . They’re all part of a wider project to create jobs and boost tourism – so you’ll be doing good while on holiday too. 

Flight time: 13.5 hours from London UK (via Johannesburg, South Africa) When to go: April–November Average winter temperature: 26°C

This southern African country has the most astonishing coast – the beaches of Mozambique are out of this world. Great stretches of sand, wild and dune-backed; lapped by the beautiful Indian Ocean where humpback whales breach, where you can swim with manta rays in the Mozambique Channel. In the little islands of Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago , a protected marine park towards the south, there are sand-floor bars and simple thatched lodges, and the most sensational sandy islets in bluer-than-blue waters, like wisps of cloud in a summer sky. On the beaches of northern Mozambique you feel as though you're at the end of the world; off this coast are the dreamlike Quirimbas Islands, including heavenly Vamizi

For those keen to tread where others have not, Mozambique has a certain caché – savvy travellers have been returning, in small numbers, to this coast for the past 20-odd years – and a few new spruced-up hotels are starting to appear – but are keen to keep it all a secret. We say go now, before the secret is out.

Where to stay: In one of the 17 prettily stripped-back bandas on the southern peninsula's tip at Machangulo Beach Lodge .

The Philippines

Flight time: 15.5 hours from London When to go: February–May Average winter temperature: 31°C

More than 7,000 islands. Deserted white-sand beaches lined with tilting coconut trees. Protected marine parks with pristine reefs like giant tropical fish bowls. Surf breaks so phenomenal they draw the world's best pros. Low-key but slick hotels and villas. And some of the friendliest people on the planet. This is the glory of the Philippines .

Where to stay: Amanpulo , in the Palawan archipelago, is a blissed-out private island hotel.

Bahia, Brazil

Flight time: 13 hours from London When to go : October–February Average winter temperature: 31°C

On Brazil 's Atlantic seaboard, far from the tourist trail, Bahia has deserted beaches, rainforests full of wildlife, cocoa farms, a surfers' town and several barefooty resorts that you'll never want to leave. Head to the small town of Itácaré for surfing, sailing, walking and birdwatching; to Trancoso for people-watching and beach-partying.

Where to stay: Built between a deserted beach and a black lagoon, Butterfly House is an eco-luxe guuesthouse made up of five green-grass-roofed bungalows on bamboo stilts, enveloped by thousands of citronella plants.

Flight time: 10 hours from London When to go: November–May Average winter temperature: 29°C

It may not the obvious choice for a beach holiday, but all the better for it: Senegal , in West Africa, has some beautiful golden sands, fantastic surf, great music and delta wildlife. Go for a holiday of life-changing experiences. 

Where to stay: Sobo Badé hotel in Toubab Dialaw is an utterly serene stay.

Flight time: 14 hours from London When to go: November–May Average winter temperature: 25°C

In Central America, the ancient Mayan cities of Guatemala , hidden deep in rainforests full of colour and exotic noise, make Rome seem as if it was built in a day. From jungle temples to beachfront bars, the delights of this magical country make for an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay: La Lancha is made up of 10 bungalows scattered on the hillside above Lake Petén Itzá.

Flight time: 18 hours from London When to go: Year-round. February is particularly good. Average winter temperature: 24°C

Yes, Hawaii is hot all year round. And yes, it has a lot of swanking five-star resorts that cater to your every whim and could be anywhere in the world. Some people – a lot of people – like those places; and why not? For others, there is everything else Hawaii has to offer. The real Hawaii. The best beaches, the best surf, the best walks through rainforests or up volcanoes.

Where to stay: Ask any Hawaii loyalist and a common answer is Mauna Lani , one of the most beautiful hotels in the US .

Kerala, India

Flight time: 9 hours from London When to go: November–March Average winter temperature: 27°C

Calm, cool and green: Kerala is not how you imagine India to be. A meandering voyage through the backwaters of this southern state is a wonderful way to see the subcontinent. Old Fort Cochin is bound to delight, and there are some lovely beaches, too.

Where to stay: Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort in Kovalam is one of our favourite spas in India .

Siwa Oasis, Egypt

Flight time: 5 hours and 15 minutes from London When to go: October–December Average winter temperature: 25°C

The oases of Western Egypt have always been havens of refuge in a beautiful but unforgiving landscape; and with the advent of small, low-key hotels in the area, designed to respect and reflect the local environment, their capacity to refresh is greater than ever. Head to Siwa Oasi s for its ancient temples, salt lake, hot springs, shimmering heat and big, shifting dunes.

Where to stay : Adrère Amellal , a simple hotel with 40 rooms in the Oasis. 

Flight time: 19 hours from London When to go: November–February Average winter temperature: 25°C

Everyone is seduced by Laos's misty, mystic mountainscapes and its historic city, Luang Prabang From the moment the country opened its doors to tourism in the 1980s, visitors have talked in reverent tones about the sleepy town far upcountry on the banks of the Mekong River. It captivates. It weaves a spell. It carries some flavour of Indochina before the modern world got there.

Where to stay: Rosewood Luang Prabang is made up of safari tents surrounded by jungle. 

Flight time: 14 hours from London When to go: November–April Average winter temperature: 32°C

If you want to see South-East Asia at its most beguiling, you need to head to Cambodia . Go to watch dawn break over the jungle temples of Angkor (pictured), and for the authentic traditions of its villages and laidback capital, Phnom Penh. But also go for its immaculate beaches.

Where to stay: Shinta Mani Wild consists of 15 tents across a private state. See our pick of where to stay in Cambodia for more. 

Flight time : 11 hours from London When to go : December–May Average winter temperature: 26°C

Ecuador is less developed than Costa Rica , so expect an adventure — one with everything its Latin cousin has to offer, and more besides. Want wildlife? Take a luxury cruise into the Ecuadorian Amazon. Want surf ? Ecuador’s 1,400 miles of Pacific coast has plenty of that. And then there’s Quito , a much smarter capital than San Jose: a heady blend of steamy salsotecas, grand Andean vistas, and fabulous hotels in ravishingly restored colonial mansions (none more elegant than the peerless Casa Gangotena). You may have heard of another of its under-the-radar destinations, the Galapagos, too. Ecuador’s different geographical zones have their own, distinct weather patterns, but Europe’s winter is when the weather is warmest in Quito and the Highlands; driest in the jungle; and sunniest on the coast. Above: Laguna de Quilotoa is a beautiful crater lake in a secluded location of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Where to stay: Want an eco-stay? The five-star Mashpi Lodge is a sustainable, all-glass stunner hiding out in a cloud forest.

The Andaman Islands

Flight time: 14 hours from London  When to go: January–March Average winter temperature: 29°C

Every bit as dreamy as the Maldives, but more satisfyingly off-radar, the Andaman Islands have smartened up. This tropical archipelago — geographically closer to Myanmar and Indonesia than its owner, India — has always been brochure-beautiful, but only recently blessed with luxury digs. Those far-flung beaches and impossibly pure waters were more reward for intrepid surfers and gap-year backpackers until now. But it was only a matter of time before this primitive paradise turned upscale. Havelock is the most developed of the 572 islands, the vast majority of which are off-limits to visitors (and populated by indigenous tribes). It’s here that Indian luxury hotel giant Taj has newly scattered 72 thatched villas under a rainforest canopy, fringing the fabled Radhanagar beach, widely said to be among the best in the world.   Winter is the clearest, driest time of year — particularly January to March — with temperatures around 29C.

Where to stay: Jalakara is a boutique, teak-and-concrete sanctuary tucked into a banana plantation, where there’s no WiFi, no TV — just utter, nature-swathed serenity.

Karnataka, India

Flight time : 9 hours from London When to go : October–April Average winter temperature: 27°C

Karnataka’s beach scene is every bit as beautiful, but rather less glowsticky, than Goa ’s, though it shares the same coast (the state of Karnataka is further south). Gokarna beach, often listed among India’s finest sandy crescents, is chilled-out, powdery and palm-fringed; beach-goers more hammock-swinging yogis than UV-painted ravers. Better still, there’s more to explore beyond browning and sun salutations. Hampi ’s magical, ancient temples and bizarre, perilously-stacked boulders have fascinated wanderers and vagabonds for hundreds of years.

Where to stay: Try trekking and then de-stressing at the Taj Madikeri Resort & Spa , in the emerald, coffee- and spice-planted hills of Coorg.

Flight time: 12 hours from London When to go: November–February Average winter temperature: 27°C

Vietnam may well be one of the most fascinating, beautiful and charming countries you will ever visit. Saigon is wonderful, colonial and quirky; Ho Chi Minh City has one of the world's best food scenes. And the coast of Vietnam – oh, the coast! The beaches are extraordinary. So much untouched beauty. Little islands and dramatic bays to explore by boat. Out-of-this-world beach-chic places to stay, right on the sand. And even though it's easy-going and luxury can be found everywhere, it still feels like a secret, still some sense of discovery about a trip there.

Where to stay: On a stretch of under-rated Vietnamese coastline, Regent Phu Quoc is a luxury gem with all the trimmings for an idyllic long-haul fly-and-flop.

Flight time: 7 hours from London When to go: October–March Average winter temperature: 28°C

Ghana’s ‘Africa for beginners’ reputation tips a hat to the ease of a trip here — stable politics, developed towns, functional transport. But it misses all the other things that make Ghana great. Like the capital, Accra, a spirited city stuffed to the gills with red-hot food, nightlife and art. See Urban Grill, Afro-Latin fusion helmed by Andrew DiCataldo, of Manhattan’s once-loved Patria; rooftop club Carbon, owned by Nick House of Mahiki; and Gallery 1957, with its knack for edgy homegrown shows that blow up on social media. Then there’s the beaches: bonfire parties and street food at Accra’s own Labadi. Winter months are hot — temperatures average around 28°C — so you’ll be glad of a bracing Atlantic dip. Alright, there’s no Big Five, but there are safaris: walking with elephants, world-class birding, humpback-whale-watching. Plus there’s that handy hour’s time difference in common with South Africa, with only half the flight time.

Where to stay: The soothing White Sands Beach Resort & Spa , an exclusive private members’ club just an hour’s drive from Accra.

Tangier, Marrakech

Flight time: 3 hours 40 minutes from London When to go: March–May Average winter temperature: 17°C

From the 1920s to the 1950s, port city Tangier was a playground for the maddest and baddest bohemians: Beat icons like Burroughs and Kerouac; glamorously demon-plagued playwrights from Tennessee Williams to Jean Genet. But it wasn’t just the romance of boxy white-washed buildings fanning along a too-blue African shoreline that brought them. The city’s status as a near-lawless ‘international zone’ made strong drugs, strong cocktails and other strongly sordid entertainments all-too-readily available. The Moroccan monarchy later enacted punishment: the city was left to rot. A new king and a new attitude have revived it, widespread restoration inviting a smarter vitality, where cafés-cum-bookshops and speakeasies retain a raffish-cool, without segueing into seedy. In a hilltop casbah, El Morocco Club is where the leisure class make easy work of looking beautiful while slurping oysters and sipping Mojitos. And though chaotic Marrakech isn’t short of designer riads to escape to, Tangier is an infinitely jauntier option, and with T-shirt temperatures to boot.

Where to stay: Hôtel Nord Pinus is all handmade fabrics, traditional Fez tiles and antique furniture. 

Read about our road trip in Morocco

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Best Mobile Hotspots of 2024

The average person relies more on the internet than ever before. There are times when we must have internet access for our Wi-Fi devices, such as a laptop computer, but public or home Wi-Fi isn’t available. This is when having a mobile hotspot comes in handy. One of these devices connects to a local cellular network and allows multiple Wi-Fi devices to connect to the internet at once.

This buyer’s guide focuses on the best mobile hotspots that can be used domestically and/or when traveling abroad. Where a hotspot can be used and how much wireless data usage is available to you will depend on the device, the cellular network(s) the hotspot can connect with, and the service plan you pay for.

Table of Contents

• Best Mobile Hotspots
• Things To Consider
• How We Chose

Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G  »

5G cellular connectivity

Wi-Fi 6E supported (up to 3.6Gbps speed with 5G connectivity)

Unlocked to work with almost any service provider globally

Connect up to 32 Wi-Fi devices simultaneously

Up to 13-hour battery life

If you need an unlocked, fast, and reliable Wi-Fi internet connection in any of more than 125 countries around the world (including the USA), and want a Wi-Fi hotspot with a signal radius up to 2,000 square feet that allows you to connect up to 32 devices simultaneous, the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G will serve you well.

There are some key features we particularly like about this mobile hotspot, including its 2.8-inch, full-color touchscreen. This display makes setting up and managing the device, as well as monitoring its battery life and connectivity speed very simple.

The hotspot comes with a portable antenna that can be used to boost signal strength. You’re also able to plug the hotspot into an external power source to enjoy an even stronger signal and not have to worry about battery life. As a bonus, this hotspot also supports Wi-Fi 6E, the fastest Wi-Fi protocol currently available. It's not cheap, but if you want the best, this is the one to get.

Solis 5G Hotspot  »

Works in 135+ countries without swapping SIM cards

Lightweight and portable

Comes with 1 G per month of wireless data for the life of the hotspot

Can be used as a power bank to charge a phone

Can connect with up to 16 devices simultaneously

The Touchscreen display isn't full-color

This hotspot is one of the most convenient to use anywhere in the world because the SIM chip it comes with automatically connects to the fastest cellular network possible in more than 135 countries. The hotspot includes 1 GB of wireless data per month that can be used anywhere in the world, and individual day passes can be purchased for $9 each that provide unlimited data (with no throttling) for 24 hours. These day passes work in whichever country it’s activated in.

You can connect up to 16 devices at once. The hotspot utilizes both the 2.4GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, allowing you to connect more devices on the 2.4 GHz band, while using the 5 GHz band for bandwidth-intensive tasks like streaming or videoconferencing. The Solis 5G manages network resources to ensure all connected devices receive a fair share of the bandwidth as it’s needed. This provides smooth performance for all devices.

The hotspot itself is IP54 rated against drops, dust, and water, so it’s durable. The integrated touchscreen display makes managing the device easy, although a mobile app is also available.

GlocalMe Numen Air 5G  »

Works as a power bank to keep mobile devices charged

Works in 200+ countries

Auto connects to the strongest cellular signal

Up to 12-hour battery life

Affordable data plans

Data plans can get confusing

Device is larger than some competitors

We like this 5G hotspot because it’s portable, has up to a 12 hours of battery life, and you can pay for service directly from GlocalMe as you need it, based on your travel schedule. You don’t have to worry about dealing with local SIM cards or multiple service providers when you’re traveling abroad.

A 2 GB day pass in the U.S. costs just $5, and a monthly 25 GB pass costs $88. The cost of international plans vary, but you have plenty of options. Once you purchase a prepaid data plan, as soon as you turn on the hotspot, it locates and automatically connects to the local service with the strongest and fastest signal.

The onboard, full-color, 2.4-inch touchscreen displays key information, like battery life, signal strength, connection speed, and the number of Wi-Fi devices connected.

Inseego M2000  »

Connect with up to 30 devices

Battery life up to 24 hours per charge

Supports Wi-Fi 6 (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with AES-129 encryption

Only supported by seven cellular service providers, but offers decent global coverage with roaming

This 5G-compatible hotspot is sold directly from seven U.S.-based cellular service providers, including Verizon, T-Mobile, and USCellular. Each service provider has its own domestic and international roaming options for service.

You can connect up to 30 devices securely with WPA, WPA2, and WPA3 for encryption. Other security features include password protection, virtual private network passthrough, and the ability to create primary and guest networks. When connected to a 5G cellular network, it supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz and can achieve download speeds up to 2.7 Gbps.

Having used this hotspot in the United States via T-Mobile, I found it to be fast, secure, and reliable. When I used it in an area that had no public Wi-Fi, it was easily able to support my laptop computer, tablet, smartphone, and printer throughout an entire workday with a steady Wi-Fi connection. Plus, out of all the hotspots in this buyer’s guide, this one has the most robust set of security, password, and encryption features.

Solis Lite Hotspot & Power Bank  »

Reasonably priced

Support 4G LTE cellular

Connect with up to 10 devices

Up to 16 hour battery life

Fits in a pocket

Only supports 4G LTE or slower

For someone who doesn't require 5G cellular connectivity or the fastest Wi-Fi speeds when traveling, the Solis Lite Hotspot and Power Bank is the best budget option. It's only $136 as of this writing, and that includes 1 GB per month of wireless data that works in more than 135 countries.

If you need more data, a variety of plans are available, including day passes with unlimited data for $9 per day that work in all supported countries and regions. While this hotspot doesn't support 5G cellular connectivity and isn't as durable as some, it's quite portable.

Having used this hotspot domestically and overseas, the most convenient aspect is that there’s never a need to purchase and swap SIM cards. You simply turn on the hotspot, and it automatically connects to a supported cellular service provider wherever you are.

The Solis mobile app makes it easy to manage the device, monitor battery life, and purchase additional day passes as they’re needed. The 1 GB of monthly data for the life of the hotspot makes this a particularly good value, especially for people who have more basic connectivity usage needs and don't need to stream video.

Starlink Standard Kit (Mobile Global)  »

Uses satellite connectivity that works globally

IP54 rated for weather resistance and durability

Motorized and self-orienting

Supports WPA2 for security

Sets up in five minutes

Larger than a traditional mobile hotspot

Only supports Wi-Fi 5

Instead of relying on a cellular connection from a traditional 4G LTE or 5G service provider, the Starlink Standard Kit includes a mobile hotspot that connects directly to a satellite data network.

After purchasing the hotspot, the relatively expensive unlimited mobile data service plans range from $120 to $250 per month based on connection speed. You can pay as you go and only activate the service (for one month at a time) when you need it, so there’s no long-term or continuous financial commitment.

This device is ideal for someone who needs internet access in places where there’s no cellular connectivity. It's a bit larger than many that use a cellular network, but it's still very portable. It can be mounted to a vehicle, used on a boat with an appropriate service plan, or set up at a remote campsite or some other location in the middle of nowhere. The signal radius is a generous 2,000 square feet.

TraviFi Journey1 LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot  »

Ideal for domestic travelers and RVers

Portable and easy to transport

One button connectivity

Inexpensive device and service plans

Not for international travel (except in Canada and Mexico for an additional fee)

Limited to 4G LTE cellular connectivity

Only five devices can connect at once

Unlimited plan throttles down to 5 Gbps after 800 GB of usage

The TravFi Journey1 LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot is great for more casual internet users who require Wi-Fi connectivity throughout most of the U.S. The device comes with an integrated SIM card that automatically connects to whatever cellular service provider’s signal is the strongest where you are.

A variety of contract-free data plans are available, starting at 2 GB of data for $19/month, although an unlimited plan ($130/month) is available too. For an additional fee, coverage throughout Canada and Mexico can be added.

On the downside, this hotspot is limited to 4G LTE cellular data connectivity, so it's not as fast as some. Still, it's fast enough for most internet tasks and is a great choice unless you want to stream video or do something else that takes a lot of bandwidth.

Orbic Speed 5G UW  »

Compact design for easy transport

2.4-inch touchscreen offers intuitive controls

Integrated security protocols

Water resistant (IP52 rated)

Currently for domestic use only

Verizon service contract required

Battery life could be better

Heavier than some competitors

For someone who travels domestically and needs a mobile hotspot that’s compact, the Orbic Speed 5G UW is the best option if you’re willing to use a Verizon data plan in the U.S. Currently, the device is not supported by international providers, but that could change in the future.

The Orbic Speed 5G UW is also a great option for a small business or home office to have on hand during a power failure, as a backup when regular internet service temporarily goes down.

The 2.4-inch, full-color touchscreen displays all pertinent information, making the Orbic Speed 5G UW intuitive to operate. One nice feature is that the battery is removable, so if you purchase extras, you can swap it out as needed. The battery also offers a quick-charge feature.

The Bottom Line

A mobile hotspot is a small, battery-powered device that’s able to connect directly (and wirelessly) to a 4G LTE or 5G cellular data network. The hotspot device can then provide secure Wi-Fi internet to your computers and mobile devices. A mobile hotspot is an alternative to creating a mobile spot from a smartphone, especially when traveling abroad. It’s also much more secure than relying on public Wi-Fi hotspots.

You can't go wrong with our top recommendation, the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G. It's fast and reliable, works in more than 125 countries, and sends a signal up to a generous 2,000 square feet. Plus, power users can connect 32 devices at the same time.

Things To Consider When Buying a Mobile Hotspot

Network Compatibility and Coverage : Determine if the mobile hotspot supports just 4G LTE connectivity, or 4G LTE and 5G cellular connectivity (which is desirable to achieve the fastest internet connections). The device should also support all of the latest Wi-Fi standards and security protocols, including WPA1, WPA2, and/or WPA3.

“Network coverage is king," says Nathan Jacobs, Security Analyst at The Money Mongers, Inc . "You've got to pick a hotspot provider that's got your back wherever you roam."

Data Plan Options : Depending on the mobile hotspot you purchase, accessing the internet either requires purchasing individual day passes for unlimited internet access for 24-hour periods; prepaying for 30 days of connectivity at a time that includes either a predetermined amount of wireless data, or unlimited data during that period; or subscribing to an annual service plan with a specific service provider within a single country or region.

“A common mistake I see people make when choosing a mobile hotspot is overlooking the service plan details," says Vladimir Terekhov, CEO of Attract Group . "This can easily lead to very high and unexpected charges or inadequate data allowances. The best service plans offer a balance of ample high-speed data, coverage, and cost-effectiveness. Unlimited plans are great, but watch out for throttling policies.”

There are a few mobile hotspots that come with a lifetime data plan included with the device. This is typically the best deal for someone who will be using the hotspot often during international travels to various countries or regions.

Battery Life : Mobile hotspots are most often powered with a rechargeable battery. Determine the average battery life per charge when the device is being used to create a Wi-Fi hotspot, and whether it can also be used as a power bank to recharge a smartphone or tablet. Ideally, you want a mobile hotspot that can be plugged into an external power source and be used while the battery is recharging.

Device Speed and Performance : In addition to the speed of the cellular data network(s) the mobile hotspot can connect to, look at the Wi-Fi connectivity speed the hotspot can provide to your other devices.

“For connection speed and Wi-Fi standards, look for hotspots supporting the latest Wi-Fi technologies, like Wi-Fi 6 and 5G where available, to ensure faster speeds and better performance,” Terekhov says.

Size and Weight : Since most people rely on a mobile hotspot when they’re traveling or during bad weather when power in their home or office goes out, you want a device that’s portable, durable, and easy to transport.

“If you're relying on a hotspot for work stuff, consider getting one that supports an external antenna. It's a bit more gear, but trust me, it can make a huge difference in signal strength. It can be a lifesaver when you're trying to work from the middle of nowhere. Also, keep your hotspot cool and near a window for the best signal,” says Jacobs.

Ease of Use and Setup : The best portable hotspots only need to be set up and activated once. Then, anytime the device is turned on, it should be able to connect to a local cellular network it’s compatible with and provide a continuous and secure Wi-Fi signal for your devices.

Number of Devices Supported : Mobile hotspots typically allow for between five and 20 devices to be connected at once without compromising connectivity speed. Look for at least 10. Our top pick, the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G, supports up to a whopping 32 devices.

How We Chose The Best Mobile Hotspots

Our contributor, Jason R. Rich, conducted extensive research and some hands-on testing to compile this buyer’s guide of the best ultrawide and super ultrawide monitors currently available. He considered things like each hotspot device’s size, design, cellular connection speed, Wi-Fi speed, security features, battery life, price, and what unique features set each mobile hotspot apart from its competition.

To help with his research, Jason conducted in-depth interviews with Prasanna Gopinath, CEO of Cognitive Clouds ; Vladimir Terekhov, CEO of Attract Group ; Nathan Jacobs, Security Analyst at The Money Mongers, Inc .; Luke Van Der Veer , a business consultant who specializes in SEO; and Charmaine Chan, Founder of IceSword .

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Jason R. Rich is an internationally recognized consumer technology expert with more than 30 years of experience as a writer, journalist, and photographer. In addition to the U.S. News 360 Reviews website, his articles and in-depth product reviews continue to appear on CBS Essentials, Forbes Vetted, and within AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin .

Throughout the year, Jason lectures aboard cruise ships around the world and visits many ports of call. Since he works remotely, he has an ongoing need for reliable and secure internet connectivity. As a result, when on land and aboard, he often relies heavily on a mobile hotspot instead of public Wi-Fi hotspots.

Choose a hotspot that supports the fastest cellular data network in the area you’re in. That's 5G in much of the U.S. but overseas could be 4G LTE or slower. Also make sure the hotspot can support the most current Wi-Fi protocols (Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, or Wi-Fi 7) to produce the fastest Wi-Fi connection for your computers and other devices. Battery life is an important factor as well.

This depends primarily on how you will use the hotspot. Consider how many devices you want to connect it to simultaneously, the strength of the cellular signal the hotspot is connected to, and the type of activities you'll be doing. For example, participating in video calls or streaming video will use more battery power than basic tasks like surfing the web, using social media, or checking your email.

The best data plans for mobile hotspots are offered by the day or month, provide the fastest cellular connectivity available in the region you’re in, and offer unlimited data usage with no data caps or throttling.

Some plans cap data after a specific amount of data usage per day or month, and then charge a hefty fee for overages. Others allow for “unlimited” data, but after a predetermined amount of usage will dramatically throttle your connection speed, sometimes to the point where it’s barely usable.

If you plan to stream video and/or music or participate in video calls, internet-based voice calls, or virtual meetings, you’ll benefit greatly from an unlimited plan with no throttling.

If you’re traveling abroad, you want a data plan that works in any country you’re in, without incurring international roaming charges. Depending on the data plan you have domestically, if your hotspot is unlocked (not programmed for use exclusively by one service provider), it might make financial sense to purchase a prepaid SIM chip for 30 days of unlimited use in the country or region you’re in to avoid roaming charges.

Check the hardware configuration of the device. Based on its technical specs, determine if it offers 4G LTE or 5G (or both) and if it supports Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, or Wi-Fi 7.

“Opting for a hotspot with slower speeds than you actually need, in order to save money, will lead to frustratingly sluggish connections and impact tasks like streaming or video calls," Van Der Veer says. "Prioritize a device that aligns with your speed requirements, even if the mobile hotspot itself and the data plan costs slightly more. This will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable online experience."

All hotspots offer some integrated security features, including the ability to create a password-protected personal Wi-Fi hotspot. When setting up the device, immediately change the network name and default password. Also, make sure you download and install the latest firmware for the hotspot device. As an added security measure, download a virtual private network on each of your Wi-Fi-connected devices.

This depends on where and how much you plan to use the hotspot. If you only need to use it domestically and can get a good deal on a service plan if you add the device to your existing cell phone bill, it makes sense to do that.

The potential drawback is that when you buy a hotspot directly from a specific cellular service provider, it could be locked and only work with that provider. If you need it to work with multiple providers or switch between providers, make sure the device is unlocked or that it has a replaceable SIM card.

If you plan to use the hotspot internationally, you’ll typically save money if you buy it independently and then use a pay-as-you-go service that offers plans in the countries you typically travel to.

Theoretically yes. However, this would only be viable if your home internet requirements are minimal, you live in an area with a strong 5G cellular signal, and you’re able to find a truly unlimited service plan that does not throttle connectivity speed once you reach a predetermined data threshold.

A service plan for a mobile hotspot that meets these criteria could wind up costing more than home internet or a 5G home internet plan that uses a cellular modem designed for in-home use (from a company like T-Mobile).

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Holiday planning made simple: The best vacation spots in the US

There’s so much to see and do in the US. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, consider yourself more of a culture buff or are passionate about history. This article includes the best vacation spots in the US from north to south and east to west, as well as everywhere in between.

The best summer vacation spots in the US

Summer’s here , the weather’s heating up, and you want to take a much-needed break in the sun. We’ve rounded up the best places in the US to spend your summer days and nights.

Niagara Falls, NY: Best vacation spot in the US for solo travelers

Niagara Falls is the 8th wonder of the world. It sits on the border of both the United States and Canada. Cross over the Rainbow Bridge by car to reach Niagara Falls, Canada, in less than 20 minutes.

This is a great destination for solo travelers who like to gamble because of its three casinos and its all-you-can-eat buffets. Families can take a Falls boat tour and visit the Aquarium of Niagara or the Castellani Art Museum at Niagara University.

Dallas, TX: Best vacation spots in the US for art enthusiasts

Dallas is one of the best vacation spots in the US for people passionate about art and culture. In particular, art lovers will enjoy spending time at the Dallas Museum of Art in the Art District. If you’re into theater or music, come to enjoy a concert at the Moody Performance Hall .

In addition to its burgeoning art district, it has numerous museums. History buffs can discover historical sites like the JFK Memorial, the Sixth Floor Museum , the Texas Theater , and the Conspiracy Museum.

Dallas is also home to the NFL Dallas Cowboys and the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA. You can drive to a game in your rental car .

Mackinac Island, MI: Best vacation spots in the US to break from modern stress

Mackinac Island, MI, is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It is packed with charm and history. From the island, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Huron. There is plenty to do and see on the island during the day and night.

You can explore Mackinac’s sights with a carriage ride around the island, which does not allow motorized vehicles. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave without trying the famous local fudge. Fancy a round of golf? There are two golf courses to choose from on the island.

Note: You must take a plane or ferry to reach the island.

Lake Tahoe, CA: Best spot in the US for a lake vacation

Enjoy the splendor of nature with a summer vacation to beautiful Lake Tahoe. It is home to several state parks, biking, and hiking trails. The lake borders the states of California and Nevada, and there are several casinos in the area, making this among the best vacation spots in the US for those who enjoy gambling.

Visiting here, you’ll be a short drive from Carson City and Reno, NV, which is also known as the Biggest Little City in the World. Spend some time exploring these local cities – you’ll be less than an hour from Reno and Carson City , NV.

If you plan to drive around Lake Tahoe in the winter, be sure to have a 4WD or snow chains on your tires. My husband and I attempted to drive from Reno, NV to Lake Tahoe on Christmas Day. Because of a chain requirement, we had to turn around just miles before getting there. We were so disappointed.

Boston, MA: Best vacation spots in the US for sports lovers

Explore the historical city of Boston on your next vacation. This city is rich in history and has numerous sights and museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts. Located on Massachusetts Bay, it is among the best vacation spots in the US to enjoy seafood, especially lobster. Boston is a great vacation spot in the US for sports lovers too and is home to a professional baseball, basketball, and hockey team.

The best romantic vacations for couples

Celebrate your love or rekindle your relationship at one of these popular destinations in the US.

Napa Valley, CA: Best vacation spots in the US for wine lovers

Napa is an ideal place for wine lovers and foodies looking for a romantic getaway. It is easily one of the best vacation spots in the US for wine lovers; however, this region is home to some of the top spas in the US. You can get couple’s spa treatments like mud or mineral baths, take a hot spring dip, or learn floating meditation.

Consider visiting for one of the annual local events, such as the Napa Lighted Art Festival in January or Bottlerock Napa Valley , a three-day music festival in May .

Oahu, HI: Best exotic vacation spots in the US

Explore the island of Oahu on a luxurious and exotic US vacation. You’ll indulge in delicious foods and can enjoy memorable experiences like taking an oceanfront horseback ride or swimming with the dolphins. Attend a luau and delve into Hawaiian culture.

The island also has many oceanfront bars for a sunset cocktail. It is among the best vacation spots in the US for couples on their honeymoon or looking to get some alone time.

Kirkham Hot Springs, ID: Best romantic vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts

Are you looking for somewhere different to spend a romantic vacation? Kirkham is a great choice for couples who like to spend time outdoors enjoying nature. Come to bathe in the warmth of the hot springs. Go hiking or horseback riding on local trails. Other outdoor excursions include kayaking and whitewater rafting.

Gatlinburg, TN: Best romantic vacation spot in the smoky mountains

Cozy up with your sweetie in one of Gatlinburg ‘s honeymoon cottages in front of the fireplace. Be sure to take your camera with you as there are many places to get pictures of the Smoky Mountains. Take a helicopter or chairlift ride to enjoy close-up views of the mountains.

Sedona, AZ: The Best romantic vacation spot in the US for hiking

Be romantic while enjoying the beautiful rock formations and the forests in Sedona. Get up early in the morning to watch the sunrise over Red Rock Country while sipping wine from a local vineyard. You can also go hiking, take an off-road adventure in a Jeep, or explore arts and culture with a visit to one of the many local art galleries. Sedona is a beautiful place to make memories.

The best beach vacations in the US

There’s a whole range of different beach vacations to choose from in the US, from those with a party atmosphere to quiet bays where you can enjoy your favorite book.

Miami, FL: The best beach vacation spot in the US for nightlife

Miami has an array of different beaches to visit. There is a beach for everyone, from families to solo travelers. Here are a few beach recommendations. South Beach is ideal if you’re looking for nightlife, as there are several waterfront bars where you can listen to live music and dance. Visit North Shore Beach if you want more peace and quiet, as well as smaller crowds.

Key Biscayne Beach is perfect for those traveling with children. Family-friendly activities here include bicycling, flying kites, swimming, and making sand castles. Other activities you can enjoy on a Miami beach include surfing, boating, sailing, and fishing.

Muskegon, MI: The best beach vacation spot for pets

If you’re looking for a hidden gem, you’ve found it. This is also a great beach vacation spot if you travel with a pet. Pere Marquette Beach is on Lake Michigan, about an hour from Grand Rapids and two hours from Traverse City. It has over two miles of beach with a designated area for dogs.

The beach has a bar, volleyball court, and a walking path to the lighthouse. Drive 15 minutes to nearby Grand Haven City Beach for a different experience.

On the way to Pere Marquette Beach in Muskegon, I like to shop in the Lakeside neighborhood. They have a couple of art galleries and an old-fashioned candy store where you can buy salt water taffy and yummy fudge.

Martha’s Vineyard, MA: The best beach vacation spot in the US for surfing

Martha’s Vineyard has many different public and private beaches. Some are great for sunbathing, while others are popular with surfers.  

You’ll find great fishing at Lobsterville Beach. East Beach and Aquinnah Beach are great places to enjoy a spectacular sunset. Squibnocket Beach is most popular with surfers.

After spending a day at the beach, you can shop at its quaint boutiques or visit the local museum to learn about the island’s history.

Hilton Head, SC: The best beach vacation spot in the US to spot sea turtles

Hilton Head has lovely beaches along the Atlantic Coast. It is a great place for a family vacation, as several beachfront resorts exist. Hilton Head Island has beautiful weather almost year-round. The family can enjoy bike riding on the boardwalk, kayaking or spotting sea turtles on the beach. Along with beach adventures, Hilton Head offers amazing golf for both the novice and the pro.

Ship Island, MS: The best beach vacation spot in the US for shelling

You can only get to Ship Island by boat. It will take you about an hour to get to the island from Gulfport, MS. Watch for dolphins on the ride. Some of the best beach activities here include swimming and shelling. There’s also a historic fort on the island with numerous exhibits.

The best family vacation spots in the US

Can’t quite stretch the budget to Disneyland? Check out these alternatives to avoid the crowds and save a little money.

Hersheypark in Hershey, PA: The best vacation spot in the US for chocolate lovers

Hersheypark is a chocolate lover’s dream. It is located close to the city of Harrisburg. This is an ideal place for a family with children of different ages. There is something for everyone to enjoy, including a zoo, chocolate factory, and amusement park. Hersheypark has rides for all ages, including rollercoasters for thrill seekers.

Dollywood Theme Park, Pigeon Forge, TN: The best vacation spots in the US for country music lovers

Are you a fan of Dolly Parton and country music? If so, Dollywood Theme Park is the place for you. It has the modern thrills of an amusement park with old-world charm. Dollywood is in the Smoky Mountains and is close to Pigeon Forge resorts , which are great for family vacations. You’ll also be just minutes from a designer store outlet where you can enjoy lots of retail therapy.

Knott’s Berry Farm, Buena Park, CA: The best vacation spots in the US for large families

Knott’s Berry Farm has something for the whole family. It is a popular amusement park just minutes from Anaheim, CA. Walking around the park, you’ll likely meet Snoopy, Charlie Brown, or one of the characters created by Charles Schultz.

Wisconsin Dells, WI: The best vacation spots in the US for families year-round

You won’t hear the kids complain of boredom when in Wisconsin Dells. This city has so much to do and see for adults and children.  Wisconsin Dells is a great place to visit year-round. You can ski or go tubing during the winter and enjoy water fun in the summer. There’s also an amusement park and a wildlife park in the town. For the adults, there are many breweries, wineries, and distilleries to explore.

Sandusky, OH: The best vacation spot in the US with an amusement park

Sandusky is home to Cedar Point , an amusement and waterpark, one of the best vacation spots in the US for families. It is the 2nd oldest amusement park in the US. The park boasts of having the first strata coaster over 400 feet tall. It sits on Lake Erie and has its own beach where parents can relax while the kids are being entertained in the park.

Tips for planning the perfect vacation

Start planning your perfect vacation by choosing a location along with travel dates. Remember, you can often save money by booking your flight during the off-season for your selected destination.

Now that you’ve decided where to go, make a list of things you want to do and see while you’re there. Packing wisely can prevent you from overfilling your suitcase and having to pay extra airline baggage fees if you’re flying.

Finally, you’ll want to find the ideal place to stay. Start by deciding what kind of accommodation you’d prefer. For example, do you want to stay in a resort , a small boutique hotel, or a spacious rental home big enough for the whole family? Be sure to choose a place that’s right for the kind of vacation you want to have – and whoever you plan to be enjoying it with.

How does KAYAK know what to put in this guide?

This guide is a combination of my passion for travel, personal experiences, tips from the KAYAK team and plenty of research! I’m an avid traveler who likes to see the world, especially the best vacation spots in the US, and I’m always looking for ways to save money without sacrificing comfort or enjoyment when traveling.

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Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

Paris, Puerto Rico and more made the top 20!

For anyone feeling a sudden urge for summer wanderlust, Google unveiled its top 20 destinations that travelers have already taken an interest in for any upcoming warm weather getaways.

From domestic to international locations, Google shared insights based on past flight booking data and search trends with "Good Morning America" to help people start planning summer vacation spots or shape an ideal itinerary.

Much like snubs and surprises during awards season, there are a couple of places that fell out of favor since last year as well as some new additions that made this year's list.

Check out all the spots below.

Top summer 2024 destinations on Google flights

The search engine technology company said the list reflects people in the U.S. searching on Google Flights for travel anytime between June 1 through August 31, 2024.

Cancun, which previously came in at number one during summer, dropped to number six, while Tokyo is on the rise, with Madrid and San Juan new to the summer location lineup.

1. London 2. Paris 3. Tokyo 4. Rome 5. New York 6. Cancun 7. Orlando 8. Las Vegas 9. Seattle 10. Athens 11. Los Angeles 12. Miami 13. Barcelona 14. Dublin 15. Fort Lauderdale 16. Honolulu 17. Denver 18. Madrid 19. Boston 20. San Juan

The biggest change from 2023, according to Google, is that Cancun moved down from the number two spot to number six, while Tokyo rose from number eight to number three.

Newcomers to the top destinations list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year.

Travel trends on Google search

Google gathers insights from mid-January to mid-March from U.S. users to find out what travel-related queries are top of mind ahead of summer.

Searches for "travel itinerary" and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January.

Two of the top trending "weekend getaway" destinations are Palm Springs and Florida Keys.

The top trending "romantic getaway" destinations were Napa, the famed California wine country, and Key West, home to the southernmost point in the Continental U.S. with historic landmarks.

Finally, La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched with all-inclusive resorts.

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10 Best Warm Places to Travel to This Winter

Escape the chill in these warm-weather destinations.

Sure, the winter months have their perks – skiing, sledding, snowman building, and of course the holidays. But the cold! Oh, the cold. It digs deep under your skin, straight to your bones, chilling everything from your toes to your chattering teeth. Fortunately, several year-round, warm-weather destinations can offer a much-needed respite from the frigid air.

From island getaways to sizzling cities, here are 10 of the best warm places to visit this winter.

Ambergris Caye, Belize 

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

With direct flights from several U.S. cities (including New York, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, and Miami), getting to the Central American nation of Belize is easier than you think. The country's interior is filled with lush, verdant landscapes home to monkeys and even a few rare jaguars, but the real star is the coast. To experience the white-sand beaches at their best, make your way to Ambergris Caye. Belize's largest island is known for its water sports, including diving and snorkeling around the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. For a luxe visit, book a few nights at Alaia Belize , which not only provides easy access to the beach, but also has a swimming pool suspended six stories above the main access corridor, with portholes in the bottom that offer aerial views of the property.

Mexico City 

Jorge Castro/Travel + Leisure

Though winter in CDMX won't have the tropical heat you might expect from Mexico — temperatures tend to top out in the low 70s this time of year — it still provides a balmy alternative to snowy U.S. locales. The capital is flush with cultural attractions , including first-rate museums (like the stunning Museo Frida Kahlo ), incredible shopping at both high-end stores and local markets, and some of the best restaurants in the world (we're looking at you, Pujol ). Make Las Alcobas your home base. The luxury hotel offers lavish guest rooms and a tranquil spa in which to relax after a day of urban exploration.

Key West, Florida

Key West is a true delight in the winter months, as the average high temperature never really falls below 75 degrees. It's the perfect place for fruity cocktails on the sand, sunset strolls down lively shopping streets, and slice after slice of tangy Key lime pie. Make the most of your time here by booking a stay at the historic Casa Marina Key West , which recently underwent an extensive renovation. Through the hotel, you can book local food tours, golf outings, and sailboat cruises, or you can simply sit by the pool and soak in the Florida Keys sun.

Rangiroa, French Polynesia

Though more than a hundred islands comprise French Polynesia , just a handful (think Bora Bora and Moorea) get most of the attention. If you prefer somewhere a little less crowded, try the quiet, sparsely developed atoll of Rangiroa. Located about an hour's flight from Tahiti, it has pristine beaches and a massive lagoon brimming with sea life. Book the Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa , which boasts stunning overwater bungalows and villas with private plunge pools.

Panama Highlands

Panama is another destination with splendid coastlines, but its interior shouldn't be overlooked, especially for a winter vacation. Temperatures in the country's highlands sit in the 60s and 70s year round, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Visitor-favorite activities here include bird-watching and, for more adventurous types, criss-crossing the verdant mountains via the famous hanging bridges of Boquete. The region also has a stellar coffee scene worth exploring. Book a stay at The Haven , an adults-only wellness hotel that'll help you get on a coffee tour as soon as you land.

If you're seeking an African safari this winter without the crowds of a classic destination like Kenya, try the less-traveled terrain of Namibia . This nation on Africa's southwest coast offers seclusion, otherworldly landscapes, and near-guaranteed warm weather. It's also the perfect place to see animals like lions, elephants, leopards, and rhinos in their natural environment. There are several outfitters in the area, but Natural Selection is top-notch. It has numerous camps to choose from, including the famed Shipwreck Lodge on the Skeleton Coast.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

If you want to mix some time under the sun with some cultural enrichment, look no further than San Juan. The capital of Puerto Rico has long stretches of white-sand beaches, plus historical attractions like the Castillo San Felipe del Morro. Visitors will also find lots of delicious spots to eat (make reservations at Cocina Abierta ). In San Juan, it's best to go boutique, so check into the O:LV Fifty Five hotel, which features a rooftop bar and pool offering the best views in town.

When the first cold snap hits, book your flight to Dubai. This desert oasis offers not just warm weather but a mind-boggling array of things to do, from swimming in the Persian Gulf to shopping at some of the world's most luxurious stores and dining at multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. (Don't forget to visit the tallest building in the world while you're here, via an elevator that travels at an ear-popping 30 feet per second.) Try Atlantis, The Palm for your overnight stays — it's a veritable playground for those looking to indulge in the finer things in life.

Winter happens to be the best time to visit Bangkok . The weather is balmy year-round thanks to Thailand's tropical location, but the winter months offer slightly more comfortable temperatures, with highs rarely exceeding 90 degrees.

To get the most out of this massive city, it's best to book a lengthy visit or get a guide — there are tons of tour options on sites like Airbnb Experiences that focus on food, culture, and photography. Don't miss out on the city's canals, either, which you can tour on a long-tail boat. Make your home base the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok , a long-running honoree in Travel + Leisure 's World's Best Awards.

The Bahamas

Sometimes, you just need to get away and not think about a single thing. And that's exactly what you can do in the Bahamas, an island chain that's just a three-hour flight from New York City. There are a number of beautiful destinations to see here, and many of the archipelago's inhabited islands are home to all-inclusive resorts that are ideal for families, couples, and even solo travelers.

Where celebrities travel: 11 under-the-radar or perennially hot places to visit in summer 2024

If you relish the potential to meet someone famous, you'll be interested to know where the stars are traveling. But if you don't buy into celebrity culture, why would you even care?

Well, it makes sense that seen-it-all celebs with bottomless bank accounts have access and the inclination to visit the best of the best, so the A-list travel calendar tends to favor the world's finest destinations and happenings.

For a lens into those superlative places and moments, here's our guide to where celebrities are traveling this summer — from perennial hot spots like St. Barts and Lake Como in Italy to major events such as Wimbledon in London and the 2024 Paris Olympics to destinations you may have never even heard of ... yet.

Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Canouan — a Caribbean island that may not sound familiar to most people — must surely be the best-kept secret among the celebrity and billionaire set. The off-the-beaten-path escape in St. Vincent and the Grenadines is just 5 square miles, with a world-class marina, roaming turtles and spectacular turquoise waters lapping white sand beaches.

The airport's 5,900-foot illuminated runway makes it highly accessible by private jet (but less so for mere mortals). There's also a Soho House here, which says something; royal watchers well know that Meghan Markle is a big Soho fan — and, indeed, the Sussexes stayed on the island just months ago.

Related: Exclusive: Soho House's founder and CEO reveals major North American expansion plans

Where to stay

Mandarin Oriental Canouan has 26 suites and 13 villas (all with ultra-personalized butler service), plus a Jim Fazio-designed golf course and a knockout hillside spa. Each of the 26 beach-chic suites and 13 villas offers sweeping oceanfront views or direct access to the sand. Rates start from $1,693 per night.

On any given day in St. Barts, you can expect to see a bold-faced name — say, Leonardo DiCaprio, Pippa Middleton, Jeff Bezos or Naomi Campbell.

Known for its idyllic beaches, luxury shopping boutiques, high-end restaurants, lavish resorts and yachting culture, the French West Indies island is a perennial favorite among celebrities and miscellaneous billionaires.

For a see-and-be-seen brunch, visit Nikki Beach , then check out Bonito in Gustavia for dinner with a DJ scene. In July, you can experience the annual cultural festivities around Bastille Day, the national day of France.

Hotel Barriere Le Carl Gustaf sits in the city of Gustavia. The intimately scaled property has just 21 rooms, suites and bungalows with private plunge pools. It's also home to the restaurant Beefbar, which happens to be a prime location to take in a Bastille Day fireworks display. Rates start from $863 per night.

Related: 7 destinations where you can travel like a celebrity without breaking the bank

Bodrum, Turkey

Known as the Mykonos of Turkey, Bodrum offers more secluded environs than its more crowded counterparts along the glamorous Aegean coast. This glam Turkish Rivera destination has yacht-lined marinas, seaside villages and pristine, private beaches with sparkling turquoise waters.

The port city also offers must-see cultural sites, from the towering Bodrum Castle to Halicarnassus Mausoleum (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World) and the Pedesa Ancient City.

At night, the city's array of clubs and bars on the iconic mile-long Cumhuriyet Caddesi come to life. Bodrum's culinary scene is also thriving, having recently celebrated its inclusion in Turkey's Michelin Guide. This party town has been known to beckon celebs like Beyonce, Cristiano Ronaldo and Tom Hanks.

Set to open in May 2024, Maxx Royal Bodrum Resort will be an opulent luxury resort with over-the-top suites and amenities situated on a private peninsula. (The Presidential Hill Villa has its own sauna, fitness room and seawater pool.) Rates start from $820 per night.

Santa Barbara, California

The American Riviera regularly swarms with stars of next-level wattage; Oprah and the Sussexes live in Montecito, California, and Hollywood's A-list routinely heads up the coast for a quick California getaway. (It's where Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker got engaged, for one thing.)

On popular State Street in downtown Santa Barbara, local and boutique shops line the promenade, with restaurants led by top chefs scattered across town — like chef Lennon Silvers Lee, who left Michelin-starred restaurant Sushi Bar Montecito to open the 10-seat Silvers Omakase in the bohemian Funk Zone.

Rosewood Miramar Beach is famous for celebrity ties; that much-Instagrammed Kardashian-Barker proposal happened right here. The beachfront hotel in Montecito introduced the Miramar Surf Club, a collaboration led by local surf legend Adam Lambert, this year. The private surf lesson comes with a picnic for two, along with a photo and video shot by the official Surfer Magazine photographer. Rates start from $1,502 per night.

Related: The best hotels in Santa Barbara

Cavtat, Croatia

Situated just south of Dubrovnik, Croatia, this less-traveled destination evokes St-Tropez before the crowds. Celebs are in the know: Jay Z, David Beckham and Matthew McConaughey have dropped by.

The small town on the Adriatic has a beautiful waterfront promenade lined with palm trees, beaches, churches, monuments, museums, outdoor restaurants and cafes, and boutiques. Plus, there are more than 4 miles of beaches ringed by crystalline waters.

Located in the charming historic center, Hotel Supetar Cavtat is just 2 years old, with 16 stylish, individually designed rooms. The hotel also houses a Mediterranean restaurant, a wine bar, an artist-in-residence program, a garden and a pool. Rates start from $308 per night.

One of the most prestigious sporting events in the world (and certainly the most venerable and oldest tennis championship), London's famous lawn club, Wimbledon, draws A-list stars from around the globe in July.

Prince William and Kate Middleton, Brad Pitt, Emma Watson, Ariana Grande and Dame Maggie Smith were all among the crowd last year. Hop across the pond to mingle amid the swelled celebrity population at the city's hottest restaurants and shops while escaping the more intense heat associated with other parts of Europe in the summer.

Located steps from Covent Garden, Great Scotland Yard Hotel (part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt) is one of London's most historic properties, echoing with untold stories of celeb guests. Here, no two rooms are the same, but all offer stunning views of London. Rates start from $278 per night.

Related: The 23 best hotels in London

Kansas City, Missouri

While this city might not have made a list like this in years past, its new status as a celebrity magnet is undeniable. It hosted the 2023 NFL Draft, opened the first stadium purpose-built for a women's sports team and is home to the Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.

Over the last year, A$AP Rocky and Rihanna were in town filming the rapper's music video, and Cardi B flew in for Beyoncé's final stop on the Renaissance Tour. Plus, you might have heard about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce . This summer, native celebrities like Paul Rudd, Eric Stonestreet and Heidi Gardner will host the fundraising event Big Slick Celebrity Weekend.

The Raphael Hotel, Autograph Collection is a boutique property located in a historic landmark, mere steps from the Country Club Plaza, the city's major destination for shopping, dining and nightlife. Rates start from $208 per night.

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen's draw of Hollywood elites dates back to the '30s, and, more recently, it has turned into a fashion capital, with high-end western apparel brand Kemo Sabe setting up a brick-and-mortar shop — joining the fashion scene in town alongside the likes of Prada, Gucci, Dior and Louis Vuitton. (Stroll long enough and you might encounter the likes of Mariah Carey or Kendall Jenner, known for shopping sprees in town.)

Make like celeb couples Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly, or Kris Jenner and Corey Gamble, and go for a high-visibility date night at the Michelin-recommended Element 47 or Cache Cache for French-American fare.

In the past year, celeb visitors to Aspen included Jenner and Carey, plus Justin and Hailey Bieber, Rihanna and Nina Dobrev, among others. Since the '70s, Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn have lived here, and their children, Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson, visit annually.

A celeb haunt since it opened in 1889, Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection is part of the National Register of Historic Places. The property has been known to host stars like Josh Hartnett, Gerard Butler, Seal, Heidi Klum and Jessica Biel, and the legendary J-Bar at the hotel was a favorite of Hunter S. Thompson. Rates start from $715 per night.

Related: From ski-in, ski-out access to a great value on points: 9 of the best places to stay in Aspen

The Olympic Games draw celebs from around the world — as spectators and as participants. Naturally, this summer's Paris Olympics will no doubt be a magnet for A-listers. The events will make Paris unusually crowded (even by its own summer standards) this July and August, as well as plenty pricey.

But, at any time of year, the City of Light draws culture-seeking celebs with its romantic cityscapes, haute cuisine, exclusive shopping opportunities and all-around pursuit of the finer things in life.

Many of the celebrity-magnet hotels are already sold out during the Olympics dates (such as The Peninsula, Paris in the 16th Arrondissement, but its spa and Michelin-starred L'Oiseau Blanc, as well as the beloved Le Lobby lounge, are expected to be open to visitors).

You can still book a stay at the opulent and intimate Hotel San Regis , formerly a 19th-century private mansion, in the 8th Arrondissement. Rates start from $545 per night.

Lake Como, Italy

A-listers like George Clooney, Madonna, Richard Branson and Sylvester Stallone own or have owned villas around the shores of Lake Como. Celebs like Beyoncé and Jay-Z have been spotted there recently. Not to mention, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen returned for a vow renewal after marrying here.

It's no wonder why celebs flock to this Italian paradise. It's full of secluded villas tucked into lush greenery, where you can enjoy phenomenal views of the sparkling waters of the lake.

Related: Everyone is going to Sicily — try these 7 underrated places in Italy instead

Villa d'Este is where you'd stay, say, if you were Elizabeth Taylor trying to hide your affair with Richard Burton. The opulence — and discretion — is next level. Rates start from $798 per night.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Stars such as Kim Kardashian, Sandra Bullock, Brad Pitt and Matthew McConaughey have all spent time in Jackson Hole — with its charming town and atmosphere, and posh lodging options.

Last summer, Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling were seen in town, and various stars own permanent residences or vacation homes here. Still, the dramatic, remote landscape is protected by stunning national parks, forests and land trusts so it will never spoil, and there is limited opportunity for development and investment, which keeps the vibe exclusive.

In town are more than 25 galleries for browsing local art, and live music plays most nights of the week. For a dose of local fauna, book an impressive wildlife safari.

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole has a peaceful, mountain-chic aesthetic. There's an expansive spa and heated pool for non-ski-season delights. And for accommodations worthy of a celeb, the property offers its residential-style Private Retreats collection. The resort is five minutes from the entrance of Grand Teton National Park — and the wildlife knows no bounds. It is not unusual for guests to see moose and other wildlife near the pool deck. Rates start from $380 per night.

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Vote for your favorite summer travel destination!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

Best Summer Travel Destination Nominees

Photo courtesy of The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

Photo courtesy of Melanie LeDuc / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

Photo courtesy of pabradyphoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

Photo courtesy of Jasper Chamber / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone

Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert/Destination Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

Photo courtesy of UpdogDesigns / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City, MD Tourism

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50...   Read More

Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

I've been to all 50 states. Here are the 10 I think everyone should visit at least once.

• Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to all 50 US states and most major US national parks.
• Although I've found beauty in every state, there are some that I want to visit over and over again.
• I love traveling to places like New Mexico, Montana, New Hampshire, and Arizona.

Over the past decade, I've successfully visited all 50 US states solo. I've even made it to most of the major US national parks along the way. Because of this journey, I'm often asked which states I'd recommend to travelers.

Although most international travelers gravitate toward states like Florida and New York , I've found fantastic beauty and history in every state.

However, these are the 10 states I always return to.

New Mexico boasts a surprising variety of stunning landscapes.

New Mexico is always at the top of my list when recommending US states. Nicknamed " the land of enchantment ," it lives up to its moniker — and then some.

Those who haven't visited New Mexico may think of the state as a mostly barren desert, but it's actually the diverse landscapes that keep me coming back.

From the otherworldly dunes of White Sands National Park to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there's beauty to be found around every corner.

Outside the natural beauty, the state is chock full of history, art, food, wine, and culture.

Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

With its vast open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

The state is home to the breathtaking Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . The sky is vast and open, the mountains are towering, and the lack of development makes me feel like I'm entering another world entirely.

California is full of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Every time I visit California , I feel like I'm entering a completely different reality.

The sheer size and diversity of the state are impressive, and it has gorgeous beaches, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even volcanoes.

I love road-tripping up the coast, visiting Yosemite National Park, taking a boat to the Channel Islands, and wine tasting in places like Napa and Sonoma.

There's no place quite like the Maine coast.

There's so much to love about Maine, but my favorite part of the state is the coast. With jagged and dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and lobster shacks, visiting the Maine coast is an unforgettable experience.

It's easy to find peace in the state that sees the first sunrise of the year and is home to Acadia National Park, which is one of the country's most popular national parks.

I love to road trip up the coast, stopping in beautiful towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbour, and Lubec.

I've returned to West Virginia multiple times.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the other states on this list, I've returned to West Virginia multiple times since my first visit.

The state's natural beauty is stunning, from New River Gorge National Park to ample lush forests, underground caverns, historic small towns, and over 200 waterfalls .

Wisconsin is home to beautiful scenery and great dining options.

Wisconsin has so much more than first meets the eye, from the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the 15,000 lakes in the state to the classic cheese curds, breweries, and wineries that dot the landscape.

I love spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, dining at one of the state's famous supper clubs, and exploring the many Wisconsin state parks.

As my home state, Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart.

I couldn't write a list like this without including my home state of Colorado. The state has so much to offer, from beautiful views to fun activities.

On the Front Range, I enjoy hiking in Boulder and exploring Cheyenne Cañon. I like to spend the night at the The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs before heading over to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In the Rockies, I love driving Independence Pass to Aspen, as well as exploring the underrated Grand Mesa, which is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world . I also enjoy taking road trips to the charming mountain towns of Telluride, Buena Vista, and Steamboat Springs.

No matter where you find yourself in Colorado, there's no shortage of incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Utah is home to five major national parks.

Utah is a state that you have to see to believe. With five major national parks, 46 state parks, 15 ski resorts, and hidden gems at every turn — you'll never get bored here.

I love visiting Moab to hike in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Zion National Park .

I also love making stops in Park City and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

New Hampshire boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

The Northeast is famous for fall foliage, but I can't help but think that New Hampshire is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors, Maine and Vermont.

I was stunned by its natural beauty during my first trip to the state. From the White Mountains to Franconia Notch State Park, the state boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

Arizona is the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

Arizona is well known for the Grand Canyon, but the state has much more to offer. From Flagstaff's high-altitude forests to Sedona's iconic red rocks, Arizona's diversity is surprising and worth a trip.

I love hiking among the cacti in Sedona or Scottsdale before heading to one of the many resorts to jump in a pool or hit the spa — the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

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Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in mexico for 2023-2024.

With year-round warm weather and diverse destinations ranging from metropolitan Mexico City to the sands of Tulum, Mexico boasts vacation spots that appeal to all sorts of visitors. To help you determine which locale is best for you, U.S. News compiled this list of the best places to visit in Mexico by factoring in cultural attractions, food options, beaches, water-based activities and nightlife, along with traveler votes and expert opinions. Vote for your favorite vacation spots below to help us determine next year's ranking. (Note: The U.S. Department of State advises against traveling to certain Mexican states due to crime; check the  website  for updates before booking your trip, and be cautious if you decide to travel.)

Zihuatanejo

Isla mujeres, isla holbox, mexico city, playa del carmen.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Zihuatanejo offers travelers an authentic Mexico experience full of brilliant sunsets and laid-back vibes. In this fishing village, shopaholics can buy local handicrafts (think: ceramics and woodcarvings), and foodies can savor fresh fish tacos and ceviche along the beach. The city's Playa La Ropa serves as the main beach and stands out because of its clean, family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Larga, another excellent beach option, is set slightly outside of town, so it offers a quieter atmosphere and plenty of room to sprawl out. Just off the coast, divers and snorkelers can pick from several dive sites brimming with marine life.

Home to Mexico's most famous waterfront Mayan ruins, Tulum appeals to history buffs and water lovers alike. Positioned along a coastal stretch of the Riviera Maya, about 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen, Tulum offers some of the best hotels in Mexico , ranging from small boutique hotels to wellness retreats to all-inclusive resorts. Regardless of where you stay, you can spend time lounging on some of the world's most beautiful beaches (try traveler-approved Playa Paraíso or Playa Ruinas), exploring ancient ruins (consider booking a daytrip to nearby Chichén Itzá for a larger-scale site) and swimming in secluded cenotes, unique underwater caves located around the Yucatán Peninsula.

This island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise ships. Travelers love this destination's brilliant blue water and laid-back beaches, plus its abundance of water sports activities. Numerous outfitters and resorts offer kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling gear. While you could spend every minute in the water or on the beach with a good book, Cozumel is also a quiet place to learn about Mayan culture. Visit the Mayan ruins at San Gervasio archaeological site for a dose of pre-Hispanic history.

Ixtapa's curved coastline is packed with hotels, restaurants and nightlife, giving the Pacific coast city (located just north of Zihuatanejo) a bustling vibe. Playa El Palmar, the main beach, often proves better for sunset strolls and people-watching than swimming or snorkeling due to the strong waves. Still, warm, clear and generally gentle water and coral beds farther offshore make Ixtapa one of the best places for beginner scuba enthusiasts. Anyone interested in the area's history should also explore the Archaeological Museum of the Costa Grande, a small museum that details the various cultures and events that make the region unique. 

A great option for a weekend stay or a quick daytrip tour , Isla Mujeres is set off the coast of Cancún and offers beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and coral reefs ready for exploration. In fact, it's one of the best places to go snorkeling in the world thanks to a unique underwater museum and one of the world's largest coral reefs (home to all sorts of colorful fish). See marine life from another perspective on a glass bottom boat. When you want to catch some rays, Playa Norte is the most popular beach, framed by white sand, turquoise water and swaying palm trees.

Quiet beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and stunning crystal-clear water are some of Isla Holbox's standout attributes. This up-and-coming slice of paradise is perfect for travelers looking to truly get away from it all, thanks to its car-free, off-the-beaten-path location. Isla Holbox is situated off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and only 26 miles long. Expect quaint boutique hotels, stretches of white sand beaches (Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito are two top spots), opportunities for snorkeling and sailing, and more than 100 species of birds, including vibrantly colored flamingoes.

About 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a small beach town known for awesome surfing conditions and scenic stretches of sand. If you've never surfed before, sign up for a lesson from a local to learn. Visitors can also go whale watching, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding or zip lining, or hop on a relaxing boat tour. After a day of fun in the sun, head into town to check out the local art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the tasty restaurants (Sayulita is a burgeoning foodie destination), which feature everything from cheap eats to fine dining.

Anglers recognize Manzanillo as a world-class deep-sea fishing destination for anyone searching for sailfish and marlin, but many types of travelers will enjoy a trip to this Pacific coast destination, located 170 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. The city's two bays mean there is no shortage of beaches for visitors to swim and sunbathe on: Top spots include Playa la Audiencia and Playa Salagua. Water sports like snorkeling and kayaking are also popular activities to enjoy here. If you have time, visit the small town of Barra de Navidad (about 30 miles northwest) for charming hotels, restaurants and stores along the beach. 

Dreamy white sand , nightclubs, all-inclusive resorts and inexpensive flights from the U.S. make Cancún a go-to spot for spring breakers and vacationers seeking an easy beach getaway. But this city on the Yucatán Peninsula also sits close to lush jungles and tranquil cenotes, making it an excellent option for nature lovers. Not to mention, travelers will find diverse and cheap street food served from various carts in the downtown area. Visiting in fall or winter will ensure you see this city (one of the most-visited spots in Mexico) in its most tranquil light, but December through April is when the weather is closest to perfect.

Ornate baroque and neoclassical buildings, busy plazas and colorful homes are everywhere you turn in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city. Guanajuato, situated about 50 miles west of San Miguel de Allende, is known for its subterranean streets and tunnels, which you can explore on a walking tour or at your own leisure. After admiring the city's cobblestone roadways and charming colonial architecture, grab a souvenir or bite to eat at the bustling Mercado Hidalgo. If you enjoy art, arrive in October when the popular Festival Internacional Cervantino takes place.

As the capital of Yucatán, Mérida's rich culture is visible around every turn. White stone mansions line Paseo de Montejo (the city's main street), while vibrant Sunday markets provide a taste of old-world Mexico. Those looking for Mayan ruins are also in luck; many ancient archaeological sites are in close proximity, including the famed Chichén Itzá just 75 miles east. Meanwhile, museum and art enthusiasts praise El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Mérida, as well as the city's art galleries and local murals. When it comes to lodging, travelers will have their pick of quaint boutique hotels.

The most populous city in Mexico is steeped in history and culture. Mexico City boasts delectable cuisine, ancient Aztec sites and world-class hotels – all at fairly low costs – but if you feel like splurging, you'll find an array of high-end shops along the tree-lined Avenida Presidente Masaryk in the Polanco neighborhood. Must-see attractions in Mexico City include the Zócalo, the Palace of Fine Arts, Chapultepec Castle and the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. And if you want to eat your way through the city, consider signing up for a food tour .

For a vacation packed with authentic character, head to Puebla. This city, which sits about 80 miles southeast of Mexico City, is filled with colonial architecture and numerous churches, but its main draws are its stunning Talavera pottery, its historical forts and museums, and its sweet and spicy cuisine. Visitors must try mole poblano (made with numerous ingredients, including chiles, meat, chocolate, cinnamon and garlic) and chiles en nogada (chiles stuffed with beef and served with a walnut sauce and fruit like peaches, apples and pomegranate seeds). When the sun sets, venture to Callejón de los Sapos to listen to live music.

Playa del Carmen boasts an exciting food scene, with eateries dishing out everything from delectable tacos and tostadas to sushi and expertly cooked seafood, plus an even hipper bar culture. What's more, this destination in the Riviera Maya beckons to vacationers with its soft white sand blanketing its beaches and its stunning shoreline views. Visitors can also bike to a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip or hit the links at one of the numerous surrounding golf courses. All-inclusive resorts , vacation rentals and boutique properties abound in Playa del Carmen, too, giving travelers plenty of options to find the best fit for their preferences and budgets.

This secluded vacation spot is known for its luxurious lodging options (from vacation rentals to high-end hotels like the St. Regis and the Four Seasons), golf courses and charming beaches, such as El Anclote and Playa de Punta Mita. The small resort village of Punta Mita sits on a peninsula in Banderas Bay and most appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere. Those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing and surfing will be able to enjoy those activities here as well. If you're visiting between December and March, book a whale watching tour for a chance to see humpback or orca whales.

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Puerto Vallarta

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Money Talks News

10 of the Best Places To Travel When It’s Swelteringly Hot

Posted: September 1, 2023 | Last updated: September 1, 2023

The phrase “summer vacation” brings with it a whole set of cliches, many involving warm-weather destinations. But with climate change making each summer seemingly warmer than the next, perhaps it’s time to rethink vacation planning.

There are plenty of vacation destinations that appeal to those looking to beat the heat — and they offer plenty of things to do as well. Here’s a look at some of the best places to visit when it’s swelteringly hot outside.

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Vancouver, British Columbia

This location’s historical monthly average temperatures for the month of :

• August: Average high of 71 degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius), low of 55 Fahrenheit (13 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 Celsius), low of 50 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius)

You’re going to see the Pacific Northwest, both Canadian and U.S. cities, show up a few times on this list, and for good reason. This part of the continent doesn’t get as hot as much of the rest of North America, and there are plenty of things to do.

Start off with breathtaking Vancouver, British Columbia , a thriving, diverse seaport. Don’t miss Canada’s largest Chinatown, the hip restaurants of historic Gastown or the natural beauty of 1,000-acre Stanley Park. Before you go, be sure to nibble on a Nanaimo bar, a decadent layered treat named for the Vancouver Island city of Nanaimo.

Victoria, British Columbia

• August: Average high of 71 degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius), low of 51 Fahrenheit (11 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 Celsius), low of 47 Fahrenheit (8 Celsius)

Don’t confuse the big mainland city of Vancouver with Vancouver Island, which sits about 60 miles (100 km) southwest. Vancouver Island is home to British-accented Victoria , the capital of British Columbia. Take a scenic ferry to the island, then enjoy elegant afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Feel the work world slip away while wandering through 55-acre Butchart Gardens and learn about the province’s history at the Royal British Columbia Museum.

Fairbanks, Alaska

• August: Average high of 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18 Celsius), low of 46 Fahrenheit (7 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 Celsius), low of 35 Fahrenheit (1 Celsius)

Alaska stays true to its nickname of America’s “Last Frontier,” and remote Fairbanks is the frontier’s front door for many. The city’s tourism site lets you track two of its most famous attractions — the astounding Aurora Borealis, known as the northern lights, and the magnificent midnight sun. That’s the 70-day period when Fairbanks receives 24 hours of sunlight. Many Fairbanks tourists arrive by cruise ship, another travel option.

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Bar Harbor, Maine

• August: Average high of 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius), low of 60 Fahrenheit (15 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 71 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celsius), low of 53 Fahrenheit (11 Celsius)

Bar Harbor is a charming resort town on Mount Desert Island, the largest island off the coast of Maine and the gateway to Acadia National Park. It’s a picture postcard from the Golden Age, when families such as the Vanderbilts, Rockefellers and Pulitzers retreated here to grand summer homes. Ooh and aah at those mansions; marvel at the natural beauty of the mountains, granite cliffs and ocean; dine on fresh lobster; and bike or hike the park’s scenic byways.

• August: Average high of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius), low of 57 Fahrenheit (14 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 Celsius), low of 53 Fahrenheit (12 Celsius)

The bluest skies you’ll ever see are in Seattle , or so the Perry Como/Bobby Sherman song goes. Summers are mild, and bugs and humidity are rare (so, too, is air conditioning — though more homes are adding it). Ride a glass elevator to the top of the iconic Space Needle or soar in the Seattle Great Wheel, a waterfront Ferris Wheel featuring 42 climate-controlled gondolas. And explore Seattle’s fabulous neighborhoods, from Scandinavian-accented Ballard to bustling Capitol Hill and funky Fremont, home to the Fremont Troll statue, who hunkers down under a bridge clasping a Volkswagen Beetle.

Portland, Oregon

• August: Average high of 81 degrees Fahrenheit (27 Celsius), low of 59 Fahrenheit (14 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 75 degrees Fahrenheit (23 Celsius), low of 55 Fahrenheit (13 Celsius)

Just three hours south of Seattle sits Portland , Oregon’s laid-back largest city. The downtown’s Pearl District is a true gem, and it’s just a short walk from there to Powell’s City of Books, which takes up a full city block and offers both new and used books of all sorts. If you’re OK with the weirder things in life, don’t miss the Peculiarium museum (it helps to believe in aliens and spontaneous combustion). The young and young-at-heart will adore making their own pancakes at Slappy Cakes.

Duluth, Minnesota

August: Average high of 74 degrees Fahrenheit (23 Celsius), low of 60 Fahrenheit (15 Celsius)

September: Average high of 66 degrees Fahrenheit (19 Celsius), low of 51 Fahrenheit (10 Celsius)

There’s an old saying: In Duluth , the view is always Superior. That’s because the world’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior, dominates the northeast Minnesota city. Head down to waterfront Canal Park to marvel at the Aerial Lift Bridge, take a tour of the William A. Irvin ore boat-turned-museum, and grab a coffee or craft beer. Don’t forget to tour Glensheen Mansion, a historic 20,000-square-foot waterfront home and the site of an infamous 1977 murder.

Banff, Alberta

• August: Average high of 71 degrees Fahrenheit (22 Celsius), low of 44 Fahrenheit (7 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 61 degrees Fahrenheit (16 Celsius), low of 37 Fahrenheit (3 Celsius)

You’ve likely seen tourism photos of Banff National Park’s majestic Lake Louise , an eerily turquoise, glacier-fed lake snuggled against the Canadian Rockies. It’s a bucket-list destination for many. You can also glide in a gondola into the mountains, ride an ATV to a hidden waterfall or float down the Bow River on an inflatable raft. O Canada!

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St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

• August: Average high of 67 degrees Fahrenheit (19 Celsius), low of 52 Fahrenheit (11 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 Celsius), low of 46 Fahrenheit (7 Celsius)

Scenic St. John’s, on Newfoundland island off Canada’s Atlantic coast, is the capital of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Get your cameras ready: Downtown is famed for the striking, jellybean-colored houses of the Battery neighborhood. Hike up to historic Cabot Tower, where back in 1901, Guglielmo Marconi received the first trans-Atlantic wireless message. The Provincial Museum of Newfoundland and Labrador, Railway Coastal Museum and Johnson Geo Centre are all popular attractions.

Ocean City, Maryland

• August: Average high of 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29 Celsius), low of 68 Fahrenheit (19 Celsius)
• September: Average high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 Celsius), low of 64 Fahrenheit (18 Celsius)

Amble down the Ocean City, Maryland, boardwalk, named America’s best by the Travel Channel. It boasts food, shops, arcades and amusements, including the magnificent, century-old Herschell-Spillman Carousel. Laze on the beach or get your heart pumping by surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking or jet skiing. Horse-loving types should gallop away for a day trip to Assateague Island, famed for its wild horses, who are carefully protected by the National Park Service .

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