Pocket WiFi—also called a mobile hotspot—is a small device you rent that creates a private WiFi network wherever you go. It's particularly useful if you're travelling with family, need to connect a laptop, or prefer not to swap out the SIM in your phone. Here's how pocket WiFi rental works for short trips and holidays, and when it makes sense.
How pocket WiFi rental works
You pick up or receive a pocket WiFi device before you travel, switch it on when you land, and it broadcasts a secure WiFi signal that your phone, tablet or laptop can join. The device itself contains a data connection—either a physical SIM or an eSIM—and you pay for the data you need, usually by the day or week. When your holiday ends, you return the device or post it back.
The main appeal is that one device can connect multiple gadgets at once. If you're travelling with a partner or kids, everyone can use the same connection without needing separate data plans. It also means you don't have to fiddle with your phone's settings or remove your home SIM. rentnconnect offers pocket WiFi rental for short-term travel from as little as one day, managed through the rentnconnect eSIM app on iOS and Android. You collect data as you need it, with no long contract or recurring fees—ideal for city breaks and holidays where you want straightforward, pay-as-you-go connectivity.
When pocket WiFi makes sense (and when it doesn't)
Pocket WiFi is a good fit if you're travelling as a group and want to share one data allowance, or if you need to connect a laptop for work or booking tickets on the go. It's also worth considering if your phone doesn't support eSIM, or if you'd rather not mess around with installing profiles and adjusting APN settings. The device does the technical work for you.
The downsides: you're carrying an extra gadget, and you need to keep it charged. If the pocket WiFi runs out of battery, everyone loses connection. You also can't split up easily—if your travel companion wanders off with the device, you're offline. For solo travellers with an eSIM-compatible phone, an eSIM plan is usually simpler and lighter. rentnconnect offers both, so you can pick what suits your trip. Set up and top up either option in the app, and you're covered from a single day upward—no subscription, just the data you need for your holiday.