Mobile Internet
I’ve used pocket WiFi while traveling with family, and it can be useful for sharing data across multiple devices. But after trying several providers, I’ve found eSIMs much more convenient overall.
For my recent trips, I’ve used pocket WiFi, and I understand why people consider it. The first time I used it, I was in a new country together with family, and being in an unfamiliar place, it felt safer to stay connected through one shared device. There’s that sense of togetherness, and it also helped that we had older family members who weren’t as comfortable with setting up SIMs or eSIMs on their own devices.
That said, after having used other options, I’ve noticed the trade-offs more clearly. Pocket WiFi still means dealing with delivery and returns, carrying an extra device, and keeping it charged throughout the day.
An eSIM, on other hand, can be set up and active
Pro tip: Colombia uses Type A and Type B plugs, so it’s worth checking your devices in advance or bringing an adapter to avoid charging issues.
Even with options like MIOWIFI or Wifio offering “unlimited” data, there are still speed slowdowns after a certain point, while TravelWifi limits you to fixed data packages depending on what you buy.
Verdict: If you’re traveling as a group, Wifio stands out for allowing more connected devices and offering a more flexible setup across countries. But for most trips now, I find eSIMs easier and more practical because they remove the need for another device, don’t require returns, and feel more seamless overall.
If you’re considering a pocket WiFi for Colombia, there are a few providers that come up consistently, each with slightly different pricing models, data policies, and logistics.
Some focus on “unlimited” data with speed limits after a certain point, while others offer fixed data packages depending on your usage needs.
Below are some of the most commonly available pocket WiFi options for Colombia, along with what to expect in terms of cost, delivery, and day to day use.
While international rental services are common, it’s also worth noting that local carriers in Colombia sell portable WiFi devices and prepaid data options, which some travelers prefer for longer stays.
Pro tip: Brushing up on a few fun facts about Colombia can give helpful context for your trip, especially when it comes to understanding how different regions, cities, and travel habits might affect your connectivity.
MIOWIFI is a portable WiFi device for travelers in Colombia, offering nationwide connectivity across major tourist areas using local mobile networks.
It supports multiple device connections and uses virtual SIM technology, so no physical SIM card is required.
The setup is straightforward, making it a plug-and-play option for short-term trips where users want to stay connected without changing their primary number.
Details:
Wifio’s Global Pocket WiFi is a travel-focused portable router that provides connectivity in Colombia using local mobile networks.
It supports multiple devices simultaneously and offers “unlimited” data with a daily high-speed allowance before throttling.
The device is positioned as a global solution, with delivery options to hotels or addresses and the ability to use it across multiple countries.
Details:
TravelWifi offers portable WiFi devices like the Sapphire 5G and Sapphire Touch 4, designed for international use including Colombia.
These devices use CloudSIM technology (no physical SIM required) and allow multiple devices to connect at once.
They are positioned as a flexible option for travelers who want either short-term rentals or a device they can reuse across trips.
Details:
Many travelers look for alternatives to pocket WiFi to avoid carrying an extra device, worrying about battery life, or dealing with delivery and returns. eSIMs solve most of that by offering instant connectivity as soon as you arrive, with everything set up directly on your phone.
The options below are based on real-world testing and overall reliability across different trips.
Holafly is one of the more widely used eSIM providers, known for its unlimited data plans in destinations like Colombia. It’s designed for travelers who want a simple, no-fuss setup without worrying about running out of data during their trip.
Ubigi offers flexible prepaid data plans and is known for its app-based experience, allowing users to manage and top up data easily. It’s a more traditional data-based option compared to unlimited providers.
Jetpac is an eSIM provider that focuses on affordable data plans and a streamlined user experience. It’s often positioned as a budget-friendly option while still covering popular travel destinations like Colombia.
You can rent a pocket WiFi device like MIOWIFI, Wifio, or TravelWifi, which connects to local mobile networks and can be delivered to your hotel or home before your trip. Alternatively, many travelers now use eSIMs, which activate instantly on arrival without needing an extra device.
Pocket WiFi prices vary depending on the provider, starting at around $8 per day for options like MIOWIFI, while others like Wifio may have lower daily rates depending on the plan. Some providers also offer fixed data packages, which can bring total costs higher depending on your usage and trip length.
Yes, Colombia does have free WiFi in some public places, including major airports like El Dorado International Airport, where free WiFi is available throughout the terminals.
That said, while it’s useful on arrival, airport WiFi usually requires registration and may not always be the most reliable or consistent, so many travelers still rely on pocket WiFi or eSIMs for more stable connectivity during their trip.
Wifio stands out as the best overall option, especially for groups, because it supports more connected devices and offers flexible international use. It also provides “unlimited” data with a higher daily allowance compared to other providers.
Wifio appears to have the lowest starting daily price among the listed options, though the final cost depends on delivery, return logistics, and plan selection. MIOWIFI is another relatively affordable option with straightforward daily pricing.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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