Renting Pocket WiFi in Mexico & Alternatives: Ultimate Guide for Travelers

Renting a pocket Wifi in Mexico is easy for tourists, but there are still other connectivity options to choose from. Here, find out all basics about renting a Pocket Wifi for Mexico, recommended providers, costs and other alternatives tourists should consider. This ultimate guide explores what pocket wifi is and why tourists should consider renting one. 

This also talks about Mexico eSIM as an alternative, how to get pocket wifi before and during your trip, how many devices can connect, costs, how to use it, and the best options. Let’s delve into it now!

I. What is Pocket WiFi for Mexico?

Pocket WiFi, sometimes called a mobile hotspot, is a portable router that provides internet access through a cellular network.

In Mexico, this handy device acts as your internet savior:

• How it works: Simply buy or rent a pocket WiFi, pop in a local SIM card in Mexico, and switch it on. It creates a WiFi network your phone, tablet, and other devices can connect to.
• When to use: Pocket WiFi shines in areas with limited or expensive public WiFi, rural locations, or when connecting multiple devices. Perfect for travelers wanting to stay online for navigation, social media, and even light work.
• Suitable for: Anyone who prioritizes staying connected while exploring Mexico. Ideal for tourists, digital nomads, and business travelers who need reliable internet on the go.

You’ve just discovered some things about pocket WiFi. Let’s see why should we rent it for Mexico travel. 

II. Why Renting a Pocket WiFi for Mexico Travel?

Hiring a pocket WiFi offers hundreds of benefits. You can:

• Save: Ditch roaming fees with a flat-rate data plan.
• Stay Connected: Reliable internet on the go, even off the grid.
• Share: Connect multiple devices, perfect for groups.
• Convenience: Pick up & connect, no SIM hassle.
• Peace of Mind: Stay in touch, access information, and explore fearlessly.

Pocket WiFi vs. Other Connectivity Options

This section will compare renting a pocket WiFi to 4 other options: free WiFi, Mexico eSIM, Mexico SIM card, and Mexico roaming. This will help you decide if it’s the right fit for your trip.

Criteria	Pocket WiFi	Free WiFi	Mexico eSIM	Mexico SIM Card	Roaming
Number of Devices	Multiple	Single	Single	Single	Single
Number of Users	Multiple	Single	Single	Single	Single
Setup Convenience	Requires pick-up/ delivery	Ready available	Instant activation	Requires purchase/ activation	Automatic
Data	More data	Limited availability	Fewer data than other options	More data than eSIM	Expensive, usage-based
Pros	Shareable connection, strong signal, works without service	Free, convenient in some areas	Convenient, easy top-up, works without service	Affordable, good data options, works without service	Seamless connection
Cons	Higher cost, battery life, potential damage/ loss	Slow, insecure, data capped	Requires compatible phone, limited data	Needs phone unlock, setup can be time-consuming	Very high cost, unpredictable billing

In summary, the choice for staying in touch while in Mexico varies based on what you require. Below are recommendations we want to tell you:

► Our Recommendations:

• Budget-minded: Free WiFi for basics (cautiously!), affordable Mexico SIM card if phone unlockable.
• Convenience: Mexico eSIM for instant activation (limited data), Pocket WiFi for sharing & strong signal (higher cost).
• Data-hungry: Pocket WiFi offers most data, and Mexico SIM card has good data plans too.
• Roaming: Last resort due to high expenses & unpredictable billing.

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

Say it again and again, using eSIM is still the best choice. Here’s why it beats Pocket Wifi:

• Effortless setup: Scan a QR code and activate instantly – no need for physical cards or device rentals.
• Space-saving: Ditch the bulky hotspot and keep your pockets (and mind) clutter-free.
• Always connected: Switch between eSIM and your home SIM seamlessly, never miss a beat.
• Flexible plans: Choose data packages based on your needs and avoid unwanted charges.
• Stay local: Connect to reliable Mexican networks for faster speeds and better coverage.

Among other big providers in the eSIM industry, Gigago is still the best choice. For Mexico, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 7 days with $12.00 . 

What is great about Gigago’s Mexico eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $12.00 – $224.50 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Mexico, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

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

Let’s discover top two ways to acquire a portable WiFi gadget for your trip to Mexico:

1. Pre-order at home and pick it up at the airport

Follow these steps:

• Choose a provider like Tep Wireless, Skyroam Solis, or Travelwifi.
• Select a plan based on data, coverage & duration (flexible options available).
• Book online well in advance for guaranteed availability & better deals.
• Pick up at major airports (MEX, CUN) upon arrival.
• Drop off the device at designated locations upon departure.

2. Renting upon arrival in Mexico (Less Optimal)

Steps are:

• Find rental kiosks at major airports upon arrival.
• Look for pocket WiFi options at larger convenience stores.

Booking Online vs. Airport Rental: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Booking Online	Airport Rental
Availability	Guaranteed with pre-order	Subject to stock
Price	More affordable deals	Higher costs
Convenience	Pre-configured, pick up at arrival	Requires time to find and set up
Peace of mind	Secure booking planned return	The last-minute decision, the potential hassle

► Our Recommendation: You should pre-order your Pocket WiFi online to be active in terms of connectivity for your trip.

V. How many devices can connect to a pocket Wifi in Mexico?

The answer depends on the provider and the specific Pocket WiFi model you choose. 

Generally, expect to connect between 5 and 15 devices, with the higher capacity models coming at a premium. Here’s a breakdown:

• 5 devices: Standard option for phone, laptop, and maybe a tablet.
• 10-12 devices: Ideal for families/groups with phones, laptops, and light gaming.
• 15+ devices: High-end option for large groups or businesses needing constant connectivity.

Remember, the more devices connected, the faster the data gets used up and the performance can slow down. Consider your usage patterns and group size before choosing.

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

The cost of a Pocket WiFi for Mexico depends on several factors:

Rental vs Purchase:

• Rental: Renting a Pocket WiFi is generally cheaper for short trips. Prices start at $35 per base fee and $6.5 per day of rental. A week’s rental can cost $75-120, including shipping and insurance.
• Purchase: Buying a Pocket WiFi is more cost-effective for frequent travelers. Prices vary depending on model and features but expect to pay $100-$200 upfront.

Additional Fees:

• Shipping: Range from $10-$20.
• Insurance: Optional insurance against loss or damage usually costs $5-$10 per day.
• Pickup/Return: Some providers offer pickup and return services at airports or hotels for an additional $10-$20 fee.

Data Plan: Most Pocket WiFi rentals come with unlimited data plans, but some offer tiered data options.

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

Choosing the best Wifi pocket for your Mexican adventure depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here’s a comparison table to help you decide:

Feature	Skyroam Solis	Tep Wireless	Keepgo	Travelwifi
Speed	Up to 50 Mbps	Up to 50 Mbps	Up to 100 Mbps	Up to 50 Mbps
Cost	~$9/day	~$8/day	~$6/day	~$7/day
Max Devices	5	5	5	5
Delivery Option	Airport pickup/delivery, ship to home	Airport pickup/delivery, ship to home	Ship to home	Airport pickup/delivery, ship to home
Battery Life	Up to 16 hours	Up to 14 hours	Up to 12 hours	Up to 10 hours

► Our Recommendations:

• Speed Demon: Keepgo offers the fastest speeds among the listed options.
• Budget Traveler: Tep Wireless provides a good balance of price and performance.
• Long Stays: Consider Skyroam Solis for its longer battery life and potentially lower cost per day on extended trips.
• Convenience: Travelwifi offers airport pickup/delivery, which can be helpful for quick getaways.

VIII. FAQs about Pocket WiFi in Mexico

IX. Conclusion

Pocket wifi in Mexico is essential for travelers. Together with regular wifi, it keeps you connected easily. Consider prepaid SIM cards or eSIM as alternatives, but they might lack group data plans.

eSIM is cost-effective if your phone is compatible; check first. In brief, pocket wifi provides affordable internet access across Mexico, ideal for families and travel groups.