Portable wifi device

AubreyMac

I’ll be going to the USA for a week in June.


The last time I went, some 5 years ago, I bought a pay as you go Tmobile sim whilst there. I paid a set amount of $ per day (paid for a weeks worth upfront) for a set amount of data which was more than enough. I can’t remember the total cost but it was reassuring to know I had limitations and won’t be charged more.


A colleague just returned from a holiday abroad and rented a portable wifi device while there. I can’t really picture what it is or how it works but said that connection to it was hit and miss and that the cost of hiring for a week you can just buy one and take with you. It sounds like taking a router with you (but I can’t imagine how it’ll actually work without a phone line).


The hotel I’m staying at has free wifi in the lobby but not in the room. If you want wifi in the room there is a $10 per day charge. Therefore I think it’s worth me buying the device to use in hotel room as well as for being out and about.


Anyone got knowledge or experience on these portable wifi devices?


I’ve had a browse on MSE about roaming and data and this device is never mentioned (not in the parts I read) so I’m surprised as if this works it’ll be the best way to save money, surely?

AlSto

Example;

http://www.argos.co.uk/product/5858374

AubreyMac

AlSto wrote: »

Example;

http://www.argos.co.uk/product/5858374

Thanks, do you know if this works as well as a indoor router?

AlSto

AubreyMac wrote: »

Thanks, do you know if this works as well as a indoor router?

What size your hotel room? Will work fine for a small apartment

The issue will more likely be the SIM data and whether the device frequencies are compatible with the network frequencies.

The 3 SIM above will work via Roaming, so don't expect the same speeds as a local SIM.

Local SIM of course more expensive.

AlSto

Example of local option; https://prepaid-phones.t-mobile.com/prepaid-internet

Get ready for your head to spin;

http://prepaid-data-sim-card.wikia.com/wiki/T-Mobile_USA

or

http://prepaid-data-sim-card.wikia.com/wiki/AT%26T_USA

You are looking at a minimum of US$30 for 2GB, which is why many go with the 3 Data SIM Roaming option.