10 Best Travel Routers With VPN 2026 in the United States

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 7 Router (RS500) excels in providing high-speed internet, boasting WiFi 7 speeds up to 12Gbps, which is ideal for real-time gaming, 4K/8K streaming, and other bandwidth-intensive activities. With a coverage area of up to 3,000 sq. ft. and the ability to support up to 120 devices, this router is suitable for both home and business use.

The inclusion of a 2.5 Gig internet port and multiple Ethernet LAN ports ensures robust, fast wired connections for devices requiring steady internet access. The router's advanced security features, including NETGEAR Armor and automatic firmware updates, offer solid protection against hackers, which is crucial for maintaining privacy while using VPN services. The Nighthawk app provides an easy setup and user interface experience, allowing users to efficiently manage their network settings and security features.

While the router is packed with impressive features, its portability might be a concern for travelers due to its larger size compared to typical travel routers. Additionally, its focus on high performance and broad coverage may be more than what is needed for casual travel use. Thus, it is better suited for stationary use in homes or offices where robust security and high-speed internet are essential.

The NETGEAR Nighthawk Tri-Band WiFi 6E Router (RAXE300) is a powerful router with impressive features, but it might not be the best fit for a travel router with VPN needs. This router excels in offering high-speed Wi-Fi with its new 6GHz band and supports up to 7.8Gbps, making it suitable for 4K/8K streaming, gaming, and video conferencing.

It covers a large area of up to 2,500 sq. ft. and supports up to 40 devices, which is great for large households or small offices. The security features, including NETGEAR ARMOR and automatic firmware updates, are robust and ensure a secure network. It also has multiple Ethernet ports, including one 2.5G port, which is beneficial for wired connections like gaming consoles and streaming devices.

However, its portability is not ideal for travel due to its relatively large size and weight (4.49 pounds). Additionally, while the setup and management through the Nighthawk app are user-friendly, the device's advanced capabilities might be overkill for casual travelers. In summary, while the NETGEAR Nighthawk RAXE300 is a top-tier router for home or office use with excellent speed, coverage, and security features, it may not be the most practical choice for a travel router with VPN needs.

The TP-Link BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Portable Travel Router is a strong choice if you want fast and reliable internet on the go. It supports the latest Wi-Fi 7 standard on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, reaching fast speeds that can handle many devices simultaneously—great for streaming or gaming while traveling. It includes a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port plus a 1 Gigabit port, which is excellent for wired connections when available.

The router’s multi-mode capability lets you use it as a router, hotspot, or Wi-Fi extender, making it very versatile for different travel scenarios like hotels, RVs, or planes. VPN support is solid, with OpenVPN and WireGuard options to keep your online activity private on public networks. Security is taken seriously with up-to-date protections and easy setup via the TP-Link Tether app, including one-step login to captive portals common in hotels.

The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your bag and power options include USB-C, so you can use a power bank if needed. A limitation is that this model does not support the 6 GHz Wi-Fi band found in some newer Wi-Fi 7 devices, which could limit the absolute top speeds or future-proofing. It also doesn’t support OpenWrt firmware, reducing customization options for advanced users. For those seeking a highly portable, fast, and secure travel router with flexible connection modes and strong VPN support, this TP-Link model fits the bill well—just without the newest 6 GHz band.