Connecting Seamlessly: Exploring Best Portable WiFi in India

Featured Image

When traveling in India, having reliable internet access is essential for staying connected with loved ones, navigating new places, and remaining productive. Portable WiFi devices provide a convenient solution, enabling travelers to access the internet without the need for local SIM cards. In this article, we delve into the top providers offering portable WiFi solutions in India, while also introducing Global YO’s innovative eSIM plans as a standout choice for travelers seeking hassle-free connectivity.

Top Portable WiFi Solutions for Traveling in India

Lightweight and reliable pocket WiFi (India) providing unlimited internet data for travelers

When choosing the best pocket WiFi provider in India, it’s important to consider several popular options that cater to diverse travel needs and preferences. Each provider offers unique features and benefits that can enhance your travel experience. Let’s explore some of the most popular options:

My Webspot

Among the leading providers offering portable WiFi solutions in India is My Webspot, renowned for its extensive global coverage and high-speed internet connection. My Webspot’s routers allow seamless connectivity for up to five devices simultaneously, ensuring secure and easy-to-use WiFi without hidden costs or data roaming charges. With a battery life of up to eight hours, it is a reliable companion for travelers exploring India. Prices for My Webspot start from 32.70 euros for a minimum of three days, providing flexibility and peace of mind for extended trips. Each day pass includes several gigabytes of 4G data, with speeds reduced beyond that limit until the next day.

Travel WiFi

Travel WiFi’s portable routers stand out with their robust 4G LTE speed and the ability to connect up to five mobile devices simultaneously. Travel WiFi offers flexible data options, including unlimited access to the internet with reduced speed after data usage. Priced competitively at 7.95 USD per day, Travel WiFi caters to travelers seeking reliable connectivity for both work and leisure purposes. Its affordability and practicality ensure uninterrupted access to emails, maps, and social media updates while exploring India’s diverse landscapes.

Rent ‘n Connect

Rent ‘n Connect offers a lightweight, pocket-sized portable WiFi router with unlimited data plans and coverage in over 130 countries, including India. Priced at 7.19 euros per day, this device supports multiple devices and provides seamless connectivity without compromising on speed or reliability. Whether for business meetings or personal travel adventures, Rent ‘n Connect ensures travelers remain connected throughout their journey in India. The rental device’s small and lightweight design, combined with a battery life of five hours, makes it an ideal choice for travelers on the go, offering both convenience and performance.

XOXO Wifi

XOXO Wifi provides flexible data packages for India tailored to individual needs, supporting up to five devices simultaneously with a long battery life of up to 12 hours. Starting at 8.7 euros per day for a minimum of five days, XOXO Wifi offers practical connectivity solutions for travelers requiring varying data usage, from light browsing to streaming and video calls. The ability to choose from different data packages, including 500MB, 1GB, 3GB, or 5GB per day at full speed, ensures that travelers can find a plan that suits their specific needs. XOXO Wifi’s extensive coverage across India makes it a versatile option for travelers.

Cello Mobile

For those prioritizing unlimited connectivity and ease of use, Cello Mobile provides a robust solution with its unlimited international mobile internet through a portable pocket WiFi hotspot. Cello Mobile’s devices, approximately half the size of a regular cell phone, support up to five mobile devices simultaneously and ensure immediate activation upon arrival in India. With a daily price of 49.99 USD, Cello Mobile offers seamless connectivity for business or leisure travelers, eliminating the hassle of searching for local SIM cards or dealing with fluctuating data plans. Their device boasts a battery life of 8-10 hours and delivers impressive download speeds of up to 150 Mbps on 4G LTE.

GlocalMe

GlocalMe is another prominent option, offering an Asia Basic DayPass starting at 7.99 USD per day, with a minimum requirement of five days (which is actually the cheapest plan for India). This plan includes 1GB of high-speed 4G data, followed by unlimited data at reduced 3G speeds. GlocalMe’s affordability and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for travelers needing consistent internet access across various Asian destinations, including India. Its easy setup and broad coverage ensure that users can stay connected in both urban and rural areas.

Options Beyond Hotspot WiFi Devices

eSIM plan provides hassle-free connectivity with a reliable internet connection and can be used as a wi-fi hotspot

When traveling, staying connected is crucial, and while many opt for pocket WiFi devices, there are several alternatives that can provide seamless internet access without the hassle. Among these alternatives are eSIM plans, public WiFi, and traditional SIM cards, each offering unique benefits and conveniences.

eSIM Plans

One of the most innovative solutions for travelers in India is the eSIM. A great example of this is the Global YO eSIM, which offers cutting-edge plans tailored for seamless connectivity. With eSIM, you can enjoy 4G/LTE speeds for fast internet browsing, and there’s no need to worry about mobile hotspot limitations — you can connect multiple devices without any restrictions.

The activation process is incredibly simple: once you purchase the eSIM, it activates immediately with no manual setup required. Global YO provides a range of prepaid data packages for India (1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB) to fit different needs and durations of stay. This flexibility ensures that you can choose the plan that best suits your usage requirements, making it an excellent alternative to carrying around a pocket WiFi device.

Public WiFi Spots

Another convenient option for travelers in India is to use public WiFi, which provides access to the internet in many cities and tourist destinations around the world. These free WiFi networks are available in public spaces such as airports, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and even parks. This can be a cost-effective way to stay connected,

However, there are limitations: public WiFi networks can be less secure, so using a VPN is advisable to protect your data. Additionally, the speed and reliability of public WiFi can vary, and availability may fluctuate. Despite these considerations, public WiFi is suitable for casual browsing and quick online tasks on your mobile device.

WiFi Dongles

A Wi-Fi dongle, also known as a WiFi hotspot dongle, is a small USB stick that provides online access without needing to connect to WiFi networks. These pocket-sized devices can be plugged into your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, offering convenient internet access while traveling. They use a built-in modem to connect to the internet via WiFi or cellular networks like 3G, 4G, or 5G, depending on compatibility and supported speeds. WiFi dongles are portable, easy to use, and ideal for digital nomads, frequent travelers, and anyone seeking reliable internet connectivity on the go.

Local SIM Cards

Traditional SIM cards from local carriers are another viable option for staying connected in India. Purchasing a local SIM card provides access to local mobile networks, often with unlimited WiFi service at competitive rates compared to international roaming charges. Many providers offer prepaid plans with varying data allowances, catering to different usage needs. While switching SIM cards and adjusting phone settings may be necessary, local SIM cards offer reliable internet access and the ability to make local calls and send texts at local rates, beneficial for staying connected within the country.

Conclusion

Having dependable internet access is vital for travelers in India to stay connected with family, explore unfamiliar locations, and maintain productivity.

From My Webspot’s extensive global coverage to Travel WiFi’s competitive pricing and flexible data options, each provider offers something distinct to enhance your travel experience. Rent ‘n Connect and XOXO Wifi provide lightweight devices with seamless connectivity and customizable data plans, catering to various travel needs. Meanwhile, Cello Mobile and GlocalMe offer robust solutions with unlimited data options, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity across India.

Beyond portable WiFi devices, travelers can also consider innovative eSIM plans like Global YO, which offer hassle-free activation and flexible data packages suitable for different durations of stay. Public WiFi remains a convenient option in urban areas, while traditional SIM cards provide cost-effective local connectivity options.

Whether you opt for a portable WiFi device, an eSIM plan, public WiFi, or a local SIM card, these options ensure you stay connected throughout your next trip to India, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Choose the solution that best fits your needs and travel preferences, ensuring you’re always connected wherever your adventures take you in India.

How can I reinstall a deleted eSIM or reinstall an existing eSIM in my new phone?

If you delete your eSIM from YOverse or lose your device, you cannot reinstall it, so if you plan to buy another plan at a later date, you will need to pay the activation fee of $0.70 Euro (which covers your eSIM for 1 year) again and reinstall a new eSIM.

How can I delete an eSIM from my phone?

If you wish, you can manually remove your eSIM. To remove your eSIM follow these steps:

Go to Settings

  • Tap Mobile data or Mobile data

    • Tap your mobile plan

    • Tap “Remove mobile plan”

If you remove your eSIM you will no longer be able to connect through this line. Any contacts you have associated with this line will default to your preferred line.

How can I allow data switching between my plans? [Advanced users]

To allow your phone to automatically select which SIM to use data from based on coverage and availability, turn on “Allow mobile data switching” in your settings. Note that if you are roaming and only want to use your YOverse eSIM or data, you should then make sure that “Allow mobile data switching” is turned off. If “Allow mobile data switching” is turned on, your phone will automatically use data from both phone plans, depending on which network is strongest at any given moment. This option is best for people who want to stay connected no matter what. There is no way to know which plan is being used at any given time, however, so this option can consume data quickly if you are not aware of it. To turn on Allow mobile data switching, follow these steps (steps may vary depending on phone model):

  • Go to Settings

  • Tap either Cellular or Mobile Data.

  • Tap Mobile Data.

    • Turn on Allow Mobile Data Switching

Your data line automatically switches for the duration of your call. Mobile data switching will not work if you are currently roaming and both eSIMs are not set to allow data roaming. Check with your provider for availability and to find out if additional charges apply.

How do I see how much data is left on my plan?

You are able to see it in the application in the “My eSIM” bubble; click on the data plan under “Active Data Plans” to view its remaining data. Once your data runs out, you will no longer have an internet connection without Wi-Fi.

Uliana Aitakayeva

uliana@yomobile.com

Uliana Aitakayeva is a tech-savvy traveler with a deep understanding of eSIM technology. As a telecom engineer, she offers practical advice on using eSIMs worldwide. Her posts focus on cost-effective strategies, carrier insights, and regional tips. When not traveling, Uliana enjoys photography and exploring local cuisines.