A travel router connects to hotel Wi-Fi or Ethernet and creates a familiar network for your devices. It can make trips simpler when you bring several gadgets, especially streaming devices that struggle with hotel login pages, but may be unnecessary if you only use a phone and laptop.

Some models also support USB tethering, mobile broadband and VPNs, and may help manage per-device limits; they do not improve the hotel’s underlying internet speed or make its network automatically secure. The router adds cost, charging and troubleshooting, while phone hotspots can be an easier alternative, subject to mobile coverage and carrier limits. At home, it can also serve as a basic extender or guest network.