A compact travel router solves a common problem: hotel Wi-Fi is often unreliable, public hotspots are insecure, and tethering phone connections can be awkward when multiple devices need internet. Travel routers create a private network from an Ethernet jack, a public Wi-Fi, or a cellular USB modem, and many include built-in VPN clients to protect traffic on unsecured networks. For frequent travelers and remote workers, a small router offers better device management, stable wired connections for a laptop or streaming stick, and consistent security policies across locations.
Key factors to weigh when choosing a travel router include wireless standard (Wi‑Fi 5 vs Wi‑Fi 6), dual-band support, physical ports (Gigabit vs multi-gig), VPN capabilities and speed, firmware openness for advanced features, power method (USB-C vs internal battery), and plug compatibility for travel. Ease of setup and modes (router, access point, repeater, client) matter for non-technical users, while processor power and firmware determine real-world VPN throughput for power users. Below are four travel routers that balance portability, security, and performance for different user needs, from lightweight VPN-first devices to Wi‑Fi 6 multi-gig options.
1. GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) Portable
Best Lightweight VPN Travel Router
| SPECIFICATIONS | • Wireless Standard: Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11ac), dual-band • Max Wireless Speed: AC1200 (2.4 GHz 300 Mbps + 5 GHz 867 Mbps) • Ports: 1 × Gigabit WAN, 2 × Gigabit LAN • Power: USB-C power input, low power consumption • VPN: OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed; Cloudflare encryption supported See more |
| TODAY'S BEST DEALS |  £32.99 |
| REASONS TO BUY | +Very compact and lightweight for easy travel packing +Gigabit WAN and LAN ports for reliable wired connections +Pre-installed OpenVPN and WireGuard clients with hardware toggle +OpenWrt-based firmware enables advanced customization +USB-C power keeps consumption minimal and convenient |
| REASONS TO AVOID | -Wi‑Fi 5 limits maximum wireless throughput compared with Wi‑Fi 6 models -Hardware toggle has no function until configured in the admin panel -Does not support easytethering, limiting some tethering setups |
Review
This design prioritizes portability and secure remote access. The compact chassis and roughly 145 g weight make it one of the easiest routers to slip into a carry-on. Despite the small size, the inclusion of full Gigabit WAN and LAN ports means wired devices such as a laptop or streaming stick get sustained bandwidth, avoiding the congestion that can plague hotel wireless networks.
Security features are the standout. Both OpenVPN and WireGuard arrive pre-installed and there is a physical toggle to enable selected functions quickly. In practice the toggle is convenient for frequent travelers who want one-touch privacy, but it must be configured in the admin panel before it becomes active. Cloudflare encryption and IPv6 support add modern safety measures that are useful when connecting through public hotspots.
The OpenWrt-based firmware opens up customization beyond basic consumer routers. Advanced users can install packages and tweak routing rules; casual users benefit from a straightforward web UI for mode switching (router, access point, repeater). Real-world performance favors wired use and medium-sized device loads on the wireless side — heavy multi-4K streaming to many clients will show the limits of Wi‑Fi 5, but typical hotel or business use cases are handled smoothly.
One trade-off is the absence of easytethering support and the older wireless generation. For travelers who prioritize ultra-lightweight hardware and strong VPN capabilities over top-tier wireless speeds, this model strikes a good balance. For those needing the absolute highest wireless throughput or native multi-gig Wi‑Fi 6, higher-end options are more appropriate.
2. TP-Link TL-WR902AC AC750Mbps Dual
Best Budget Basic Travel Router
| SPECIFICATIONS | • Wireless Standard: Wi‑Fi 5 (802.11ac/n/a 5 GHz, 802.11b/g/n 2.4 GHz) • Max Wireless Speed: AC750 (approx. 2.4 GHz 300 Mbps + 5 GHz 433 Mbps) • Ports: 1 × Ethernet (mode-dependent), 1 × USB 2.0, 1 × Micro USB power • Power: Micro USB power input • Modes: Router, Hotspot, Range Extender, Access Point, Client See more |
| TODAY'S BEST DEALS | £29.98 |
| REASONS TO BUY | +Very affordable and pocketable for occasional travelers +Multiple operation modes cover most hotel and hotspot scenarios +USB port enables basic file sharing or USB modem tethering +Simple setup suitable for non-technical users |
| REASONS TO AVOID | -AC750 limits performance with many devices or heavy streaming -USB 2.0 and Micro USB power are dated compared with newer models -No advanced VPN client pre-installed or strong security features |
Review
This compact unit is aimed at users who need a cheap, reliable way to create a private Wi‑Fi network on the road. It covers the basics well: converting an Ethernet jack into a local network, extending a weak signal, or sharing a 3G/4G USB modem. The small footprint and light weight make it ideal for short trips or infrequent use.
Performance suits light to moderate usage: web browsing, video calls, and some HD streaming to a couple of devices. Expect limitations when multiple devices attempt simultaneous 4K streams or when low latency for competitive gaming is required. The single USB 2.0 port is useful for file sharing or a USB modem, but it will not deliver the speeds or flexibility of modern USB 3.0 ports.
Setup is straightforward and the multiple modes remove the need to reconfigure network settings at every location. That simplicity comes at the cost of advanced security and VPN functionality; there is no pre-installed VPN client and the firmware does not offer the same extensibility as open-source alternatives. For travelers on a tight budget who need to secure a few devices or share a tethered connection, this is a pragmatic choice.
3. GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX)
Best High-Performance Wi‑Fi 6 Travel Router
| SPECIFICATIONS | • Wireless Standard: Wi‑Fi 6 (802.11ax), dual-band • Max Wireless Speed: Approx. 2.4 GHz 574 Mbps + 5 GHz 2402 Mbps • Ports: 1 × 2.5 Gbps WAN, 1 × 1 Gbps LAN, 1 × USB 3.0 • VPN: OpenVPN and WireGuard pre-installed; VPN client/server with policy routing • Firmware: OpenWrt 21.02, supports thousands of plug-ins See more |
| TODAY'S BEST DEALS | £79.98 |
| REASONS TO BUY | +Wi‑Fi 6 for significantly higher wireless capacity and efficiency +2.5G WAN port and USB 3.0 for faster wired backhaul and storage +Robust VPN features including client/server and policy routing +OpenWrt firmware for extensive customization and plugins +Modern security stack with WPA3 and DNS over HTTPS/TLS |
| REASONS TO AVOID | -More complex setup for users unfamiliar with OpenWrt and advanced networking -VPN throughput limited by CPU when using OpenVPN; highest speeds with WireGuard -Does not support EAP enterprise Wi‑Fi networks |
Review
This model targets users who demand high wireless throughput and advanced network control while traveling. Wi‑Fi 6 delivers measurable gains in multi-device environments, so households or remote teams sharing a single hotel connection will notice smoother performance and reduced latency. The presence of a 2.5 Gbps WAN port and USB 3.0 raises this above ordinary travel routers for tasks like large file transfers or branching to a local NAS.
The router’s VPN toolkit is unusually strong for a pocket device. Running both client and server concurrently, plus policy-based routing and a kill-switch feature, enables workflows such as remote access to home resources while sending web traffic through a selected VPN provider. Real-world VPN throughput depends on provider protocols; WireGuard typically produces the best results, while OpenVPN is slower but still usable for many tasks.
OpenWrt firmware is a differentiator. It provides access to thousands of packages for ad blocking, monitoring, or custom routing rules, but that flexibility requires some networking knowledge. Less technical users should plan for a brief learning curve, including applying recommended firmware updates to maximize performance. For professionals and power users who prioritize secure remote access and top-tier wireless capacity, this router is the most capable option in a travel-ready form factor.
A few compromises exist: enterprise Wi‑Fi authentication (EAP) is not supported, and the advanced feature set means paying attention to configuration and firmware maintenance. Still, when raw wireless performance, multi-gig capability, and strong VPN handling are required on the road, this unit stands out.
4. TP-Link TL-WR1502X AX1500 WiFi 6 Router
Best Portable Wi‑Fi 6 Value
| SPECIFICATIONS | • Wireless Standard: Wi‑Fi 6 (802.11ax), dual-band • Max Wireless Speed: AX1500 (2.4 GHz 300 Mbps + 5 GHz 1201 Mbps) • Ports: 1 × Gigabit WAN, 1 × Gigabit LAN, 1 × USB port • Power: USB Type-C power input (supports power bank input) • Modes: Router, USB Tethering, 3G/4G USB Modem, Hotspot, Access Point, Range Extender, Client See more |
| TODAY'S BEST DEALS | £36.99 |
| REASONS TO BUY | +Modern Wi‑Fi 6 speeds for smoother multi-device performance +Type-C power input enables easy use with power banks while traveling +Flexible operation modes cover most travel and home scenarios +Full Gigabit WAN/LAN for reliable wired connections |
| REASONS TO AVOID | -Less advanced firmware and fewer customization options than open-source alternatives -Single LAN port limits wired device expansion without a switch -VPN server features may be basic compared with dedicated GL.iNet implementations |
Review
This router is aimed at travelers who want Wi‑Fi 6 performance without the complexity of open-source systems. The AX1500 class provides improved efficiency and better performance in crowded environments, making it a solid choice for families or professionals sharing a hotel connection. The Type-C power input and the ability to run from a power bank add real convenience when mains power is unreliable.
Physical connections include full Gigabit WAN and LAN ports, which keep wired devices like streaming sticks, game consoles, or laptops on the fastest path. The USB port supports file sharing and cellular modems for tethered internet, expanding versatility across different travel scenarios. The many operating modes remove the need to carry different devices for access point, repeater, or client roles.
Where this model trades off is in advanced customization. The firmware is tuned for ease of use rather than deep configurability, so users who want granular VPN routing, plugin ecosystems, or advanced security packages may prefer GL.iNet options. For most travelers who want a balance of modern wireless speed, straightforward setup, and portability, this router provides a clear, user-friendly upgrade from older travel routers.
Summary
For light travelers and users who want an ultra-portable VPN appliance, the GL.iNet Opal is the best match: it pairs Gigabit wired ports with pre-installed WireGuard/OpenVPN and OpenWrt flexibility in a small package. Budget travelers or anyone who only needs basic private Wi‑Fi at hotels will find the TP-Link TL-WR902AC meets essentials at a low cost and with simple setup.
Power users and professionals who require the highest wireless capacity and robust VPN handling should choose the GL-MT3000 Beryl AX for its Wi‑Fi 6 speeds, 2.5G wired option, and extensive OpenWrt-based features. If modern Wi‑Fi 6 performance with straightforward, travel-focused usability is the priority, the TP-Link TL-WR1502X delivers the best balance of speed, portability, and plug-and-play convenience.
Match the router to the typical travel environment: choose Wi‑Fi 6 and multi-gig if expecting many devices or large file transfers; pick a compact OpenWrt-based unit for advanced VPN control; select the budget TP-Link when simplicity and price matter most. All four options here cover the common travel scenarios of hotel networks, public hotspots, and tethered cellular setups while offering different trade-offs between speed, customization, and ease of use.
