Today, we can almost do anything with just a click of our finger through the power of cell phones. These cell phones have upgraded to smartphones, revolutionizing how we do our work and daily activities and making everything accessible. An internet connection makes a smartphone more useful since you can search for everything once connected.
The easiest way to connect to the internet with a cell phone is through your local cellular network. Your cellular data connection will provide you access to the internet without connecting to a router. Another way is to connect through a wireless connection or Wi-Fi. In this mode, you wouldn’t need to bring any device other than your smartphone.
With Wi-Fi, a smartphone will be as valuable as we use it nowadays. You can consider Wi-Fi the most powerful smartphone tool since connecting to this will make everything easy. Every smartphone nowadays will work as long as it’s connected to Wi-Fi.
However, only some places have reliable Wi-Fi, and only some have access. So what do you do when you need to connect your phone to the internet but can’t find Wi-Fi? Most people connect to a mobile hotspot from a friend or anyone who has it.
The hotspot feature of cell phones provides internet to devices by sharing its Wi-Fi. A personal hotspot lets you share your Wi-Fi with friends and family or on other devices. We can already do our thing by simply turning on the button. Since not all places provide free Wi-Fi connections, a hotspot is a game-changer.
Though there are many uses of the hotspot, not all people know it and its functions. But a hotspot connection has its limitations. It’s not as accessible as it is, especially when you’re on a plane. (Read Can You Bring Co2 Cartridges Plane)
How to use mobile hotspot devices?
Mobile hotspot devices make life easier because you need to switch it on and know their password then you’re good to go. The capability to turn mobile phones into Wi-Fi hotspots is available in nearly all smartphones. This has become a feature that is reliable for anyone who needs to have internet access always.
Now that 5G-capable phones are available, 5G mobile networks are easily accessible and can power a mobile hotspot with more than enough data. You need to have a 5G phone to enjoy the fast speeds of 5G. If you depend on mobile hotspots, those blazing 5G speeds are a great reason to upgrade as soon as a 5G network is available.
It doesn’t matter if you have a 4G or 5G phone. A hotspot combines software, hardware, and back-end network data services that turn your phone into a wireless router. Simply put, it can set up a Wi-Fi network to share a cellular connection to nearby devices.
As mentioned, most cell phones come with hotspots and tethering capabilities. However, using your cell phone as a mobile hotspot can damage your cell batteries. There’s always another option aside from using your cell features: purchasing a mobile hotspot device.
A mobile hotspot device can provide you with Wi-Fi signal even if it’s only a tiny device. It can fit in your bags easily when you’re traveling. Not only that, but it also serves its purpose of providing internet service at rates of up to 1,000 Mbps. (Read Can You Walk Around With Alcohol In Vegas)
Can I Use my Hotspot on a Plane?
The simple answer to this question is no. One feature that can save a life is tethering or cell phone hotspots. However, mobile hotspots or tethering will only function if your phone is in airplane mode during your flight.
No hotspot works on a plane because it uses cell towers on the ground to provide an internet connection. Furthermore, it will not work on a plane because there’s simply no signal once the plane is at cruising altitude.
The plane’s average cruising altitude is 30,000 feet high or more. This is because cell towers typically transmit your cell signal a little low. You can’t find a cell tower that high, can you?
You won’t be able to receive any signal while you are that high in the air on a commercial flight. Furthermore, the signal needs to be directed upwards. Every airline asks passengers to put their cell phones on airplane mode.
It could be more enjoyable to place your devices in airplane mode or turn them off completely while in flight. Especially if you’re on a business trip and need to stay in touch with the office or are traveling with children, as you travel from here to there, it would be great if you continue to use the Internet. However, do planes have Wi-Fi?
Do Airlines Provide Wi-Fi Hotspots?
Wireless hotspots are prohibited from use while flying should be reason enough for you to consider other options. How do other people stay connected while onboard? Let’s find out how airlines stay connected up in the sky.
Some airlines offer reliable free Wi-Fi in the air. Free Wi-Fi has some drawbacks, as it will become weaker and slower the higher the airplane flies. However, most airlines provide paid Wi-Fi as a subscription or for single flights.
What hotspot works on a plane? Since inflight Wi-Fi became available on airplanes, the costs have skyrocketed and are paid per device. People have been looking for ways to share the inflight Wi-Fi Internet among their devices to save money. You can expect to pay anywhere between $7 and $30 per flight for each device to access the Internet, depending on how long the session lasts.
What options are there for connecting your devices to the in-flight Wi-Fi network? Several solutions are available for sharing an Internet connection in flight, including laptops, mobile phone hotspots, MiFi devices, and travel routers or range extenders.
It is undoubtedly a good idea to purchase a Wi-Fi package if you travel frequently. Better coverage and unlimited entertainment options will be available to you. However, buying an inflight Wi-Fi is preferable if you only travel occasionally.
Since you won’t be able to use your hotspot device while flying, it is best to avoid packing it in your checked bag. Most airlines won’t pay for any expensive items or electronics lost or damaged in checked baggage.
Can I take my Wireless Hotspot Devices Through The Security Checkpoint?
As we have discussed the dos and don’ts of using a personal hotspot feature on the plane and flight Wi-Fi, let’s discuss the security checkpoint. The Wi-Fi hotspot is considered safe electronic equipment that you can transport without any problems in carry-on and checked baggage. However, following TSA electronic rules is crucial when passing the security checkpoint.
Any electronics larger than a cell phone and your device should be taken out of your carry-on bag and put in a different bin for further inspection. Consider positioning your gadget close to the top of your carry-on luggage. The TSA’s website didn’t mention mobile hotspot devices, but it’s better to follow their general guidelines on electronics.
It’s relatively easy to abide by TSA regulations. Just be cautious about where you keep your gadgets to ensure their security. (Read What Can Travel Around The World)
Should you still bring a Wi-Fi hotspot on a plane?
It depends on you and the purpose of your travel. You may still use your Wi-Fi hotspot if you don’t turn it off. Here’s the bad news, your hotspot device won’t have any signal.
There are no hacks to make it work while you’re on board unless you subscribe to a flight Wi-Fi. However, if you’ll simply bring a Wi-Fi hotspot on a plane, then there’s no problem. It’s important to follow the rules of the flights you’re on for the safety of the other passengers.
Do hotspots work on planes? No, but it’s better to bring it because you will need it once you’re on the ground. The general rule is wireless hotspots need cellular data to provide Wi-Fi. The same goes for personal mobile hotspots or tethering.
It’s better to plan your travel so you can inform your local airline that you’re interested in availing of their inflight Wi-Fi packages.
