We’ve all been there—stuck in the car and wishing for a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Whether you’re trying to finish up some work on your laptop, enjoying a road trip in a campervan and craving a movie night, or keeping the kids entertained with games on their iPads during a long drive, having Wi-Fi can make all the difference. It’s not just a luxury anymore; it’s become a necessity for many of us. So, if you’re looking to stay connected while on the go, let’s explore the top 5 methods to equip your car with Wi-Fi.
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1) Use a hotspot from your phone
How to turn on a Hotspot on an iPhone
- Settings
- Personal Hotspot
- Allow Others to Join
How to turn on a hotspot on an Android
- Settings
- Network & Internet
- Hotspot & tethering
- Wi-Fi hotspot
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2) Buy a mobile hotspot device
A mobile hotspot device is a dedicated gadget designed to provide internet access via cellular data, similar to the hotspot feature on your smartphone. However, these devices offer several advantages over using a smartphone hotspot.
Mobile hotspots can support multiple devices simultaneously, allowing you to connect laptops, tablets, and other gadgets without sacrificing performance. They typically have longer battery life than smartphones, making them ideal for extended use while on the go. Additionally, many mobile hotspots are engineered to deliver a more reliable and robust signal compared to smartphone hotspots.
You can find mobile hotspot devices at various carriers, and they often come bundled with their own data plans tailored to your usage needs. However, it is important to keep in mind that mobile hotspots rely on cellular networks for internet access. If you are in an area without cell service, a mobile hotspot will not provide a Wi-Fi connection, as it cannot connect to the internet without a nearby cellular signal. Check out our top mobile hot spots to find the best in speed, security and convenience for your needs.
3) Built-in car Wi-Fi
Some modern cars come with built-in Wi-Fi. Many manufacturers offer this handy feature as part of their connected car services. For example, you might find AT&T Connected Car in Toyota vehicles, OnStar in GM cars, or Uconnect in Chrysler models. While these services typically require a subscription, they’re definitely worth considering. Not only do they provide internet access on the go, but they also come packed with a ton of other cool features to enhance your driving experience. So, if you’re in the market for a new car, keep an eye out for those Wi-Fi capabilities.
4) Connect at a rest stop, cafe or restaurant
This may be a no-brainer, but if you’re on a long road trip and need to get online, many rest stops, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. If the connection is strong enough, you may not even need to leave your car. But, if you do (and you’ll likely need to go in to ask for the password unless it’s a free connection), take the opportunity to grab a bite to eat, stretch your legs, or use the restroom. However, be cautious, as public Wi-Fi networks can be insecure, making your personal information vulnerable to hackers.
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5) Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh network
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Kurt’s key takeaways
Staying connected while on the road has never been easier with the variety of options available. Whether you opt for a simple phone hotspot, invest in a dedicated mobile hotspot device, or take advantage of built-in car Wi-Fi, there’s a solution to fit every need and budget. By choosing the right method for your situation, you can ensure that you and your passengers remain entertained, productive, and connected no matter where your journey takes you.
What are your must-have tech gadgets for road trips, and how do they enhance your travel experience? Let us know in the comments below.
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