Has anyone rented a mobile wifi hotspot/wireless unit from the Visit Britian website and picked it up at Heathrow? We will be traveling in rural england for 10 days with limited wifi access. We are considering renting a unit and would like to know if anyone has experience with this company. Was it worth it? What would you recommend?
Thanks!
I rented this device thru Visit Britain in May 2015. See the discussion before my trip at Technology Tips . You can also search the Technology Tips forum (search box at the top of the page) for other discussions about Wi-Fi use in Britain.
Based on my experience, I would not purchase this again. Expensive. Worked well in London but not in Kent or the Cotswolds.
MrsEB,
did the devise work well in rural areas?
No, it did not have reception in rural areas.
Before a unit like this will work it has to have a strong mobile (cellular) signal, preferably at least 3G, better 4G.
I don't know about other networks, but I have a phone on EE and another on O2. Both have huge data blackspots in the countryside, and my EE one fails more than it succeeds.
Particularly if you are heading into the boondocks you would be well advised to check the 3G and 4G coverage maps of the company associated with the SIM on the device.
Otherwise you may be drawn to the conclusion that coverage where you are is rubbish, and the device was of no use at all.
You don't say where "rural England" is, but I live in some.
Most of Devon and a lot of Wales is a dead loss, too.
Kathy,
It may make just as much sense to purchase an unlocked GSM WIFI hotspot before you leave and just purchase a data-only SIM when you get there. The rental rates for a week approached or exceeded the purchase price of one here... The up side, you'll have it for the next trip or can loan (or sell) it to friends when you get make.
If you have a smart phone, you may be able to turn it into a mobile hotspot. Check with the carriers where you plan to visit.
I know of at least one national retailer that sells them...
