Despite how far WiFi has come over the past decade, finding free networks abroad can be a bit tricky. Of course, if you’re desperate to stay connected to the Internet whilst travelling you can usually pay your mobile phone provider a small fortune for a limited amount of data. However, if you’d rather wing it here are some tips and tricks to help you stay connected.
Hotspots
For most travelers, there are few establishments more glorious than Starbucks and McDonald’s. Not only are these businesses incredibly easy to find in most places, they also provide free WiFi for their customers. There’s no need to ask for a password, you don’t need to have a code to get online, you simply connect to their network and you’ll receive unlimited, high-quality Internet for as long as you need it.
If you’ve somehow ended up in the only place on Earth without a McDonald’s or a Starbucks, or you’d like to visit a site such as an online casino that those businesses have blocked, more independent businesses are offering their patrons WiFi than ever. Usually, you will be able to access a worldwide online casino like Betway from these smaller establishments. Even if you’re staying in a tiny bed and breakfast or visiting a small coffee shop, chances are they have complimentary WiFi.
Transport
WiFi isn’t limited to static establishments, but the WiFi available on some modes of transport can be somewhat costly. For instance, anyone who wishes to use a cruise ship’s WiFi should be ready to part with a hefty some of money for WiFi that is usually mediocre at best.
As for planes, most domestic and international airlines offer WiFi but you will have to pay for it. That said, the cost is nowhere near what you’d expect on a cruise ship and is sometimes even based on a 24 time frame rather than charging you per minute. Of all the transport options though, trains are probably the best when it comes to WiFi as many companies will provide travelers with free WiFi in exchange for their email address and nothing more.
Apps
There are hundreds of apps out there that aim to help travelers and although it may seem redundant having an app that helps you find WiFi when you don’t have a WiFi connection in the first place, there are a few apps that are essential for Internet-seeking travelers. For instance, Wi-Fi Finder is a particularly popular app that is available on Android and iOS and allows you to download a worldwide database filled with over 650,000 free and paid WiFi hotspots. Of course, you do this whilst already connected to the Internet, and then once you’re out you can just boot up the app and use it offline.
Alternatively, Comcast subscribers can download the Xfinity WiFi on Android and discover their closest hotspot. If you’re travelling in the US, another option is WiFiFreeSpot.com, which provides users with a list of publically available hotspots.
Coupons
Last but certainly not least, one of the easiest ways to get your hands on some free WiFi when all hope is lost and all your WiFi options cost money is to collect some coupons. This method requires a little bit of preparation, but if you manage to find enough coupons you could feasibly get through your entire trip without having to spend a penny on acquiring an Internet connection.
Sites like RetailMeNot, Coupons, Groupon and GoodSearch all regularly share WiFi deals that you can use during your travels. These include coupons for free WiFi during flights, free trial periods with ISPs and huge discounts on portable WiFi devices. If you’re lucky, you may even find a discount code for your mobile network provider so you can free WiFi whilst abroad, so always make sure to check before you travel.
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