Struggling to Find Wi-Fi While You’re Traveling on Business? Here Are a Few Tips to Help

When you are traveling on business, it is often important that you have frequent access to the Internet. This is why finding Wi-Fi is so vital. Gradually, telecommunications companies throughout the world are providing Wi-Fi services to more and more locations. That makes it easier for you to find the connection you need. You may need to do some searching, but knowing where to look can help you connect to the Internet whenever you need.

Using Your Smartphone to Connect to the Internet

While having data network access on your cellphone is great for using the Internet whenever you have a cell signal, it is also possible to use that signal as a router for you to connect to the Internet from your computer. Most smartphones have a simple option for you to access the "Personal Hotspot" feature in the "Settings" of your smartphone. Once activated, your computer can search for a signal and see the one coming from your cellphone. From there, just click on the corresponding hotspot and type in the password that is located on your phone. Now you should be able to connect to the Internet from your computer, using your phone’s data network.

Ensure You Have a Local SIM Card

Most phone companies charge a considerable amount of money to provide Internet access from abroad. That's why it is important to have your phone company unlock your phone so that you can place another company's phone card in your smartphone. The price for unlocking the phone varies from company to company, but it is in the area of $35. Also, buying a SIM card from a different country varies considerably in price. However, phone companies from abroad typically charge considerable less money than North American phone companies. For example, a SIM card in Costa Rica cost $5 early in 2013. Once you are connected to the new phone company and you purchase data, the Internet hotspot you secure from your phone will be at a reasonable price. This will allow you to have cheap Internet for your virtual office essentially anywhere you have a phone signal.

Finding the Best Spots for Wi-Fi

Similar to the situation in North America, coffee shops around the world typically offer a Wi-Fi connection. Other popular spots that will offer you free Wi-Fi include hotels and libraries. If you know you will need Internet in a location where you are travelling, it is a good idea to check for the nearest spot that has Internet prior to your departure. That way you will know where to go when you arrive. Similarly, it is a good idea to ensure the hotel where you are staying offers Wi-Fi. Planning is the most important component of your business trip. If you plan your business trip right, you won't likely have a problem finding Internet. Of course, this depends on the nation to which you are traveling. However, more and more countries are making it easy for you to access the Internet from essentially anywhere in the world.