Best Pocket Wifi in Chile Rental & Alternatives: Travelers Guide 2024

Are you planning to travel to Chile and expect a stable internet connection anywhere? Pocket wifi in Chile is an affordable and powerful option worth considering. Not only does it provide a large data capacity, pocket wifi also supports simultaneous connection with different devices.

pocket wifi in chile
Rental pocket wifi in Chile

I. What is pocket WiFi for Chile?

Pocket wifi in Chile is a portable wifi router providing wireless internet access while you’re on the go. Unlike traditional wifi routers often used at home or in the office, pocket wifi is designed to accompany travelers throughout your journey to explore Chile.

  • How pocket wifi works: Pocket wifi in Chile creates a secure wifi network within a radius of up to 15 meters and allows simultaneous connection with up to 10 – 15 devices (such as laptops, tablets or smartphones). Powered by a rechargeable battery, pocket wifi has battery life that varies depending on traveler’s usage amount, but can typically stay connected continuously for 6 – 8 hours.
  • When to use pocket wifi: Pocket wifi is an ideal and convenient solution for you to stay connected while exploring Chile. In particular, it is extremely useful when traveling to remote areas such as rural or mountainous areas.
  • Suitable for: Individuals traveling to Chile or families and groups traveling together can seriously consider using pocket wifi. Allowing connection to 15 different devices, this is a smart choice for you to avoid expensive roaming fees but still have a stable internet connection regardless of location.

II. Why Renting a Pocket WiFi for Chile Travel?

renting pocket wwifi in chile
Pocket wwifi – One of ideal options for travelers to get internet connection in Chile

Renting a pocket wifi for Chile travel is considered an ideal option, especially if you want a seamless internet connection with multiple devices without hassle. Below are some outstanding reasons why travelers should seriously consider renting pocket wifi in Chile.

Benefits of Pocket Wifi for travelers to Chile

  • Secure connection: Pocket wifi in Chile creates a private network with strong encryption, providing a safe and protected internet connection.
  • Easy setup and use: The setup process for pocket wifi is quite easy and user-friendly, even if travelers don’t have advanced technical knowledge.
  • Pocket-friendly: Pocket wifi in Chile is a more economical option than traditional international data roaming. You can also flexibly choose a data package that suits your needs, avoiding additional fees.
  • Adaptability: Pocket wifi can connect to the internet via wired Ethernet, 4G/5G mobile network or public wifi. This adaptability ensures travelers can access the internet in a variety of settings, thereby optimizing connection options based on location.
  • Device support: Pocket wifi can connect multiple devices at the same time, ideal for families or groups traveling together.

Pocket WiFi vs. Other Connectivity options

Besides pocket wifi in Chile, visitors are provided with a number of additional options for internet connection including:

  • Free wifi
  • SIM card
  • Roaming

The comparison table below will help you determine which option best suits your current internet needs.

CriteriaPocket wifiFree wifiSIM cardRoaming
Number of devicesUp to 05 devices at the same timeVaries1 deviceVaries
Number of usersIndividual travelersMultiple usersIndividual travelersMultiple users
DataVaries (based on rental plan)LimitedVaries (based on plan)Limited (based on plan)
Setup processSetup easily, just turn on and enter passwordFind hotspot and enter password or notPurchase from operator, then insert physical SIM card and activateUse your home carrier with existing phone number
Connection reliabilityReliableInconsistent depends on hotspot availability signal strengthReliable if choosing from a reputable mobile network carrierCan be expensive, quality depends on your home carrier’s roaming agreement and coverage in Chile

Our recommendation: Among the solutions offered, pocket wifi stands out with its initiative, fast speed and is the optimal choice for travelers with many devices that need to be connected or travel groups. In fact, SIM cards are a preferred alternative for most travelers when it comes to solving the expensive and cumbersome problems of pocket wifi. You can also seriously research eSIM if you are using an eSIM-compatible device, because it is 100% registered and installed online, as well as not requiring switching your SIM card.

III. Chile eSIM – Alternative to Pocket Wifi to Get Internet in Chile

esim from gigago
eSIM Gigago with varriety of plans

Instead of using pocket wifi in Chile, travelers can choose eSIM as an ideal alternative to get a stable and affordable internet connection while exploring Chile. eSIM means the digital SIM card which is registered and installed completely online without switching SIM card.

Some prominent benefits of eSIM include:

  • Avoid expensive roaming fees: Instead of switching physical SIM cards, eSIM allows users to seamlessly connect to the local network. That means you’ll pay local rates for data and calls, thereby saving money on international roaming charges.
  • Easy activation: Travelers can activate eSIM before arriving in Chile, ensuring instant connection upon landing. Thus, you will not need to directly go to the store or handle a physical SIM card.
  • Flexible short-term plans: eSIM operators offer a variety of data plans, allowing travelers to choose the plan most suitable to your travel time.
  • Pay-as-you-go: Most eSIM plans work on a pay-as-you-go basis. Travelers are not bound by long-term contracts, which is convenient for those who want flexibility.

If you are expecting a reputable and trustworthy Chile eSIM retailer, Gigago is the ideal recommendation for you. When choosing Gigago’s service, travelers can easily pick the right data package for a Chile trip without requiring identity authentication.

Gigago offers multiple data plan options for Chile, with prices ranging from $12.50 . Their minimum 1 GB/7 days starts at just $12.50 . With this range of affordable plans, Gigago can accommodate any type of user and trip length in Chile. Whether you only need occasional internet access or plan to stream extensively, Gigago has a Chile eSIM plan to fit your needs and budget. The flexibility of their pricing makes Gigago a great eSIM solution for travel to Chile.

See more detail about Chile eSIM plans from Gigago.

IV. How to Get a Pocket WiFi for Travelers to Chile?

renting pocket wifi easily at chile airport
Travelers should purchase pocket Chile to get connectivity upon arrival

There are 02 ways for travelers to get pocket wifi in Chile:

  • Pre-order online before the trip and receive pocket wifi right at the airport
  • Rent directly at the airport

Pre-order pocket wifi before the trip

Travelers can search for information about pocket wifi suppliers in Chile and pre-order online before departing for your trip, then simply pick up the device at the service counter at Chile airport such as Santiago International Airport. By this way, you can get a strong internet connection as soon as you land in Chile. When your vacation is over, simply return your device to the designated location before returning home.

Pros: 

  • Convenience: Ensure travelers have an internet connection upon arrival.
  • Flexible options: You can compare suppliers, data plans and prices online to find the one that best suits your needs

Cons:

  • Risk of loss: Your device may be lost during the shipping process.
  • Additional costs: Pre-ordering online may incur additional shipping fees.

Rent directly at the airport

Most airports in Chile such as Santiago International Airport have pocket wifi rental kiosks available. Therefore, you can also search for a suitable supplier and rent directly at the counter.

Pros:

  • Immediate availability: Renting at the airport allows travelers to pick up the devices immediately at the airport.
  • Flexible rental periods: Most airport rental services offer daily or weekly rental options.

Cons: 

  • Higher costs: Renting pocket wifi at Chile airport can be more expensive than ordering online.
  • Limited choice: You will have fewer choices in device suppliers and service plans.

Our recommendation: Pre-ordering a pocket wifi device right before departing to Chile is the ideal and optimal option for travelers. This also ensures you will have a wifi connection right after arriving in Chile.

V. How many devices can connect to a pocket Wifi for Chile?

The number of devices that can connect to pocket wifi in Chile depends on the type of chosen providers.

  • Min: Up to 5 devices
  • Max: 15 devices

The more expensive the pocket wifi package in Chile, the more devices it can connect to.

Pro Tips: Travelers need to be sure about the number of devices so that the chosen plan can support connection for all devices during the trip.

VI. How much does a Pocket WiFi for Chile Cost?

The cost of pocket wifi in Chile depends on the  chosen suppliers, data plan and included features. Device rentals typically start at $44 per week, with discounts available for long-term rentals.

When choosing pocket wifi in Chile to have a stable connection during the trip, travelers should consider a number of other factors besides price, including:

  • Data limit: Assess your data needs for your trip. Some pocket wifi providers in Chile offer unlimited data, while others have daily or weekly limits.
  • Battery life: Consider devices with long-lasting batteries or charge them in advance to ensure not to lose your internet connection due to running out of battery during your travel.
  • Coverage: Check the coverage map of different pocket wifi providers to ensure a stable internet connection in the places you are about to visit.

VII. Best Wifi Pockets for Chile travel – Which to choose?

how to choose pocket wifi provider
There are various pocket wifi suppliers in Chile

To pick the right pocket wifi provider for the Chile trip, you need to consider your needs and budget. The comparison table of some popular suppliers below can help you make your decision easier.

XOXO WiFiMioWiFiTravel WiFiGlocalMe
Cost (weekly rental)$77.60$64$44.00$76.93
SpeedVaries (500MB/day)4G4G4G
Max number of devicesUp to 5 different devicesUp to 5 different devicesUp to 5 devicesUp to 10 devices at the same time
Delivery optionShipping availableShipping availableShipping availableFree shipping
Battery lifeApproximately 12 hours12 hours of continuous use06 – 28 hours depending on the model14 hours in a single day

Note: The above prices are for reference only, you should go to the suppliers' official websites to get the latest updates on prices and accompanying policies.

VIII. How to use your pocket Wifi in Chile?

Below are instructions on how to use pocket wifi in Chile for your reference:

  • Step 1: Make sure to fully charge the pocket wifi battery before each trip in Chile.
  • Step 2: Turn on the pocket wifi power.
  • Step 3: Enable wifi feature on your phone or laptop that needs to connect to the internet and search for the pocket wifi network name (SSID), then enter the password if requested.
  • Step 4: After successfully connecting, you can freely search for information on the web, share moments on social media platforms and access other online services.

Pro tip: Travelers can consider choosing pocket wifi in Chile with long battery life to ensure a stable internet connection throughout the trip without worrying about power source. Turn it off when not in use, this is good for preserving battery life.

Always carrying pocket wifi and power banks can sometimes cause inconvenience for travelers. eSIM can be an economical and convenient alternative, especially for solo travelers planning to visit many attractions of Chile in one day.

IX. FAQs about Chile Pocket Wifi Rental

Is Chile pocket wifi easy to set up?

Yes, setting up pocket wifi in Chile is so simple. When receiving the device, you just need to turn it on and it will create a wifi network.

Can I use pocket wifi in Chilean remote areas?

While pocket wifi works well in Chile’s popular urban and attractions, coverage in remote areas can be limited. Therefore, you should check with your device supplier about the coverage map and any potential dead zones.

How long is the battery life for pocket wifi in Chile?

Most pocket wifi hotspots have a continuous usage time of about 8 – 10 hours. Travelers should make sure to charge overnight or bring a backup charger if you plan to explore Chile throughout the day.

Can I rent pocket wifi at the airport in Chile?

Some airports in Chile have kiosks or counters where travelers can rent pocket wifi devices easily. However, pre-ordering online is more convenient as it ensures you have an internet connection right after arrival and does not require long queues to rent equipment.

What happens if my daily data exceeds the allowable limit of the device?

If you exceed daily data (e.g. 512 MB/day), network access speed will be reduced until the next day. Consider upgrading to a higher data plan if you want to use more data on your Chile trip.

X. Conclusion

To sum up, pocket wifi in Chile is an ideal option for group or family travelers who want multiple devices simultaneously to connect to the internet during the trip. Faced with a variety of device suppliers, you should carefully consider factors such as capacity limits, speed, number of connected devices, and shipping methods. For solo travelers or who want to save budget, eSIM can be seen as an ideal alternative.