When planning a trip, staying connected is more important than ever. Whether it's for navigation, translation, or sharing your experiences online, internet access is non-negotiable. For many travelers, that leads to a common question: should you rent or buy a pocket WiFi device, also called a portable WiFi hotspot? Let's break down exactly what pocket WiFi is, how it works, and whether it's really the best choice compared to modern options like eSIMs, especially ones as flexible as Eskimo.
What Is Pocket WiFi?
Pocket WiFi is a small, portable device that creates a personal wireless hotspot by connecting to a local cellular network via a SIM card. Also known as mobile hotspots, MiFi, or portable WiFi devices, they let you connect multiple devices like phones, laptops, tablets to the internet simultaneously.
The idea is simple: the pocket WiFi picks up a 4G or 5G signal, then broadcasts its own WiFi network for your devices to join. Once you're connected, you can browse the web, use maps, check your email, and access any app just like you would at home.
It’s popular among tourists and business travelers alike, especially in places with strong mobile infrastructure. Japan, for instance, has some of the most widely used pocket WiFi services, with options like Japan Wireless, Ninja WiFi, and Sakura Mobile available for rental.
Pocket WiFi devices are also known for their compatibility with any WiFi-enabled device, making them a flexible choice if you're traveling with older gadgets or anything without SIM support. That said, newer smartphones are eSIM compatible, making it possible to skip pocket WiFi altogether and connect directly with digital SIM technology.
How Does Pocket WiFi Work?
A pocket WiFi device contains a SIM card that connects to mobile networks. Once powered on, the device broadcasts a private WiFi signal. Here’s the typical process:
- Turn it on: Pocket WiFi devices have a power button and often a small screen showing signal strength, battery life, and number of connected devices.
- Connect: Find the WiFi name (SSID) and password listed on the device or inside its packaging.
- Start browsing: Once connected, you’re online.
Most devices support 5–10 connected devices and have battery life ranging from 8 to 20 hours. Higher-end models, like the NETGEAR Nighthawk M6 Pro, support up to 30 devices and allow external antenna attachment for better rural reception. Some models even use dual-band or tri-band WiFi (2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz), offering higher speeds and lower latency for demanding use.
But if your phone already supports eSIM, you can skip all of this. Just install Eskimo eSIM on your iPhone or Android device, and you’ll connect to high-speed data without any extra hardware, or device compatibility issues.
Where Is Pocket WiFi Popular?
Pocket WiFi is especially popular in Japan and the Philippines. Japan's reliable LTE infrastructure and focus on tourism make it a hub for rental services. These are commonly picked up or dropped off at airports, and include data packages that cater to everything from day trips to month-long stays.
In the Philippines, travelers use them to bridge gaps in mobile network consistency when hopping between islands. Providers like MyFi and Flytpack offer delivery and pickup services at major cities and international gateways.
Still, even in these regions, eSIMs are gaining popularity. Travelers are realizing that services like Eskimo eSIM offer broader regional coverage without the need to coordinate rental logistics or worry about losing a rented device abroad.
Benefits of Pocket WiFi
1. Supports Multiple Devices
If you're traveling with friends, family, or coworkers, one pocket WiFi can connect everyone at once. It's a simple way to keep the group online without buying multiple data plans.
2. Works with Any Device
Because it broadcasts WiFi, there's no need to worry about SIM or eSIM compatibility. As long as your device supports WiFi, you're good to go.
3. Avoids Roaming Charges
For those not using a prepaid or travel eSIM, pocket WiFi can be cheaper than traditional roaming plans, especially for high-data users.
4. Easy to Set Up
You don’t need to swap SIM cards or worry about phone settings. Just turn it on, connect, and use.
5. Secure Connection
Most pocket WiFi devices offer encrypted WiFi with WPA2 protection, making them safer than public WiFi networks at hotels or cafes.
6. Separate Battery
Most smartphones can act as a portable WiFi too by utilising their Mobile Hotspot feature, but this will drain the device's battery quickly. Portable WiFi takes care of that, allowing your device to conserve its battery better.
Disadvantages of Pocket WiFi
1. Another Device to Carry
Pocket WiFi might be small, but it’s still another gadget to keep charged, track, and carry. If you’re already juggling a power bank, phone, camera, and charger, it adds to the load.
2. Limited Battery Life
Its benefit is also its disadvantage. Even high-end models rarely last more than a full day of use. If you forget to charge it, you could lose connection halfway through the day.
3. Rental Hassles
Renting pocket WiFi usually means pickup and return at an airport kiosk or hotel. Miss your pickup? You’re stuck without data. Forget to return it? You might get hit with late fees or device replacement costs.
4. Single-Country Usage
Most rentals are country-specific. Traveling across borders? You’ll either need to rent multiple devices or find an international option, which often costs significantly more.
5. Throttled Speeds or Data Caps
Some pocket WiFi services advertise "unlimited" data, but actually reduce your speed after a set amount (Fair Usage Policy). Others simply cut you off.
6. Slower Setup for Groups
Although setup is simple, everyone in your group has to stay close to the device (usually within 30–50 feet). That means your travel party can’t spread out if relying on one hotspot.
7. Damage or Loss Fees
Minor hardware defects like scratches might be overlooked, but major software or damages could come with a hefty penalty (up to hundreds of dollars). Damaging or losing the modem will incur charges depending on each company's policies.
Pocket WiFi vs Mobile Tethering vs eSIM
If you’re comparing travel connectivity options, here’s how pocket WiFi stacks up:
Why Eskimo eSIM Is the Smarter Travel Solution
Pocket WiFi might work, but Eskimo eSIM makes staying connected effortless. Instead of carrying another device, you can activate esIMs remotely wherever you are. That means no SIM-swapping, no airport kiosk, no damage fees, and no dead battery problems.
Here’s why Eskimo makes travel easier:
- Universal eSIM: Works across regions including North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Africa, and more. Install once, connect anywhere with the right data plan.
- Longest Validity: All plans are valid for 2 years, so you can save unused data for your next trip.
- Instant Data Transfer: Share data between Eskimo accounts instantly, using just a phone number.
- 5G Unlimited Speeds: No daily caps, no throttling, and no surprise slowdowns.
- Start Anytime: Plans only activate when you connect to a network or share data, perfect for flexible itineraries.
- Easy Top-Ups: Add data without reinstalling the eSIM. New plans kick in automatically after your current one ends. Moreover, your data plan validity is reset to 2 years with any purchase.
- No Compatibility Headaches: As long as your phone supports eSIM (most modern iPhones, Pixels, and Samsung Galaxy models do), setup is quick and seamless.
And there are perks too:
- Refer friends: Earn 500MB for every referral, plus $3 vouchers (up to $30).
- Travel cashback: Book via Eskimo’s partners (Klook, Booking.com, Expedia) and get cashback to your bank (via Eskimo app only).
- Eskimo Guarantee: Hassle-free refunds for unused plans.
Eskimo eSIM is the modern answer to travel connectivity. If you're ready to ditch rental counters, chargers, and return envelopes, it's the clear upgrade.
New to Eskimo?Start here and get 500MB of global data for free.
FAQs
Is pocket WiFi cheaper than eSIM?
It can be cheaper for group travel if everyone uses one device. But for solo travelers or cross-border trips, eSIM is usually more cost-effective.
What happens if I lose my pocket WiFi rental?
Most companies charge a replacement fee, often $100 or more. You’ll also be billed for late returns.
Can I use pocket WiFi on planes?
No. Pocket WiFi relies on ground-based cellular networks and won't work mid-flight.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
Check your phone settings under Mobile or Cellular. Here's a full guide on how to confirm your device's eSIM compatibility.
Is pocket WiFi good for long-term travel?
Only if you stay in one country. For multi-country or long-term trips, eSIM offers more flexibility and fewer logistics.
Do pocket WiFi devices work in rural areas?
Coverage depends on the carrier backing the device and surrounding infrastructure. If the mobile network is weak in rural areas, pocket WiFi will also struggle.
Can I share Eskimo eSIM data with friends?
Yes. As long as they have Eskimo accounts and eSIM installed, you can transfer paid data instantly with no limits.
What are alternatives to pocket WiFi?
Local SIM cards, roaming plans from your home carrier, public WiFi (with caution), and eSIMs like Eskimo are the main alternatives. Each has pros and cons, but eSIM offers the best mix of flexibility, speed, and control for international travelers.