If there is one thing that ruins the post-holiday glow, it’s coming home to a shock mobile phone bill. We’ve all been there—trying to find decent WiFi in a hotel lobby or risking “just a quick check” of emails on data roaming, only to regret it later.
I recently took a look at the TravelBuddy MiFi Router, a device that promises to solve exactly this problem. It pitches itself not just as a piece of hardware, but as a complete “internet in your pocket” solution.
Here is my review of the TravelBuddy and whether it’s worth adding to your carry-on for your next trip.
What is the TravelBuddy MiFi Router?
At its core, the TravelBuddy is a portable 4G hotspot (often called a MiFi). It creates a private WiFi network that you can connect your devices to—phones, laptops, tablets—just like you would with your router at home.
But unlike a standard unlocked router where you have to hunt down a local SIM card in every country you visit, the TravelBuddy is designed to work straight out of the box. It leverages Multi-Network technology, meaning it doesn’t just rely on one mobile provider; it hunts for the strongest signal available from multiple networks in the area.
Key Features at a Glance
- Connects up to 5 Devices: Perfect for couples or families. You can connect your phone, your partner’s tablet, and a laptop simultaneously without performance dropping off a cliff.
- Multi-Network Coverage: This is the killer feature. It automatically connects to the best available network, which is a huge advantage over standard SIMs that often struggle in rural areas.
- 1GB Free Data Included: It comes pre-loaded with 1GB of data valid in the UK, EU, USA, Thailand, Egypt, Turkey, and Israel. You can land and get online instantly.
- No Contracts or Apps: Top-ups are handled via a simple online portal. You don’t need to download another app or sign up for a monthly subscription.
- Pocket-Sized: It’s incredibly lightweight and small enough to slip into a pocket or tech bag without noticing it.
The “Roam Like Home” Experience
The biggest selling point here is convenience. If you have ever tried buying a local SIM in a foreign airport, you know the hassle: language barriers, registration forms, and hunting for a paperclip to swap SIM cards.
With the TravelBuddy, that friction is gone. You turn it on, connect your phone to its WiFi, and you have internet. Because it creates its own WiFi bubble, you don’t need to remove your main SIM card from your phone, meaning you can still receive texts and calls on your normal number (provided you have WiFi calling enabled or are willing to pay for incoming calls).
Performance and Data
The router supports 4G speeds, which is more than enough for Google Maps, social media, and checking emails. While it isn’t a 5G powerhouse intended for downloading 4K movies, it is reliable for the kind of “utility internet” travelers need.
The top-up system is pay-as-you-go. Once your initial 1GB runs out, you simply log in to their portal and buy a bundle. This prevents the “bill shock” scenario entirely—you can never spend more than you have topped up.
Who is this for?
- The Business Traveler: If you need a secure connection for your laptop and don’t want to rely on dodgy public hotel WiFi, this is a must-have.
- Families: keeping the kids’ tablets online during a long drive or airport wait is worth the price of admission alone.
- Multi-Destination Hoppers: If you are doing a tour of Europe or visiting multiple countries, having one device that works across borders without changing SIMs is a game-changer.
Verdict
The TravelBuddy isn’t just a router; it’s a convenience service. Could you buy a cheaper, unlocked router and hunt for local SIM cards yourself? Sure. But the TravelBuddy is for people who value their time and want a connection that just works the moment the plane wheels touch the tarmac.
For under £40, it is a solid insurance policy against bad hotel WiFi and exorbitant roaming fees.
Where to buy: You can pick up the TravelBuddy MiFi Router directly on Amazon here: Check Price and Availability on Amazon
