WiFi on the Go: Comparing In-Car Internet Options

No longer a novelty feature, for many commuters, digital nomads, remote workers, and families on road trips, a connected car is an essential part of modern living. Why? Staying connected via reliable Internet makes driving and working easier, whether the immediate need is GPS navigation, being present for a work meeting, or making sure your kids are entertained so you can enjoy the ride.

Read on to find out more about how in-car WiFi works, the type of technology that makes it possible, which car manufacturers include built-in WiFi hotspots in their vehicles, as well as the best mobile WiFi networks for long drives and commutes.

What Is In-Car WiFi and How Does It Work?

In-car WiFi can seem like a futuristic and even unnecessary perk. Isn’t a cell phone good enough for staying in touch during a commute or trip? As technology continues to evolve, the answer is becoming 'no.' For many 21st-century workers and travelers, the functionality of working in-car WiFi is a must-have.

How Vehicles Connect to the Internet

In-car WiFi works by tapping into cellular networks, just like your smartphone. Some vehicles come with built-in modems that connect to 4G LTE or 5G networks. These modems can pull in Internet data and create a private WiFi signal in your car that you and your passengers can use.

Many newer vehicles also include a roof antenna to boost signal strength. That means even if you're driving through areas where coverage gets spotty, you'll likely still have a more stable connection compared to using a phone alone.

Different Types of In-Car WiFi Setups

Many car manufacturers are currently building new, select models with built-in WiFi, so if you’re in the market for a new car, your options are expanding. For vehicles that don’t have a built-in WiFi router and modem compliments of the vehicle manufacturer, there are plenty of other options beyond the classic: using your personal cell phone as a hotspot.

OBD II Devices

There are a number of different car WiFi devices available that plug into your car’s OBD II port — the port below your steering column or dashboard that mechanics use to run diagnostics. OBD II devices generate a WiFi hotspot that can be used while you drive. Be aware, though, that you will still need a phone plan or Internet plan;-a: of some kind to use an OBD II device to generate a real-time WiFi signal.

One disadvantage of this approach is the OBD II device itself. They can cost more than $100, and it’s another piece of equipment you’ll need to keep track of in your car. Additionally, if you’ll be traveling and would like to have WiFi at any spot away from your vehicle, the OBD II device is not ideal.

Wireless Routers

Having a 4G LTE or 5G modem and wireless router installed in your vehicle is another option that will enable good connectivity almost anywhere in the U.S. Expect to pay more than you would to purchase an OBD II device, as well. Again, you will also need an Internet or phone plan to generate a WiFi connection with this option unless you’re close to a public WiFi spot.

This option can generate a strong signal and reliable connectivity, but it is pricey. Professional installation can easily run hundreds of dollars or more. It’s also not portable, so if you’re looking for a solution that works in and out of the car, keep reading.

Built-In Telematics Systems

A built-in telematics system, such as OnStar or a particular vehicle manufacturer’s proprietary system (i,e.., FordPass Connect), can also enable WiFi in your vehicle. In addition to providing remote vehicle diagnostics monitoring, emergency call services, and some functionality via a smartphone app (usually both Android and Apple’s iOS), many cars’ built-in telematics systems can be used to get online.

If you’ve already got a car with a built-in telematics system — great! All you need is to make sure your subscription plan allows for the Internet connectivity and data plan you need. For digital nomads and families who might desire a bit more flexibility with their WiFi, it’s important to note that this solution can’t reach too far away from the vehicle.

Standalone Portable Hotspot Devices

Many wireless carriers offer battery-powered portable hotspot devices that can be used across multiple vehicles, outdoors, or in buildings without an Internet connection. Depending on what carrier you use and your needs, this in-car option can be sufficient.

Depending on where you’re traveling and your provider’s coverage area, this option will work well for users who need some portability with their WiFi, plus the option to connect multiple devices. Take it down to the creek or even on the hiking trail — if coverage exists, hotspots make it easy to have WiFi in the car and on the go, away from the car.

These types of options tend to offer better range and reliability than smartphone tethering, which is described next.

Smartphone Tethering

The easiest and most common way to get in-car WiFi capabilities, smartphone tethering, can be a great option for short distances. What is it? Basically, you plug another device into your smartphone, like your laptop, and that act of “tethering” allows your laptop to also receive a signal (thanks to your cellular data plan) to use the Internet.

The advantage here is that you don’t need an additional device, or phone/Internet plan to get in-car WiFi because your phone has a mobile hotspot feature built into it. The downside of using your phone is that you will have to connect it to the other device you’re using, which can drain your phone battery life and mobile data caps unless you have an unlimited data plan.

Why In-Car WiFi Is Safer

Open public networks often don’t use strong security, which means other people nearby could potentially access the information you’re sending out or receiving. That includes things like your login credentials, emails, or even payment details.

Some hackers even set up networks that look like free WiFi but are designed to capture your data the moment you connect. So if you’re checking work emails, accessing client files, or logging into secure systems on a public connection, your privacy might not be as protected as you’d expect.

That’s why using in-car WiFi is a safer choice. Whether it’s a factory-installed system with a cellular data plan or a portable hotspot device, in-car networks are private, password-protected, and connected through reliable mobile networks. That means you control who’s using the connection, and your data stays in your hands, not out in the open.

If you ever need to connect through public WiFi while on the road, using a virtual private network (VPN) adds an extra layer of protection. A VPN encrypts your internet activity, keeping your information safe from prying eyes, even on unsecured networks.

Common Use Cases for In-Car Connectivity

Having reliable in-car WiFi can make life on the road smoother, more productive, and more enjoyable.

Families and Long-Distance Travelers

In-car WiFi can help keep kids entertained with streaming, games, infotainment, or educational tools. It also ensures parents and caregivers have a strong network for accessing navigation tools, traffic updates, and itineraries while on the go.

For long-distance travelers who don’t have children to entertain, the benefits are similar. Stream music, an audiobook, or catch up on that podcast series without having to download everything ahead of time.

Daily Commuters

With return-to-office orders increasing around the U.S., many commuters find that in-car WiFi can make the daily commute more interesting and enriching. From hands-free calls and streaming podcasts to checking calendar reminders and sending an urgent email (from a parked car, of course), a strong car WiFi signal can help people make the most of otherwise idle drive time.

Remote Workers and Digital Nomads

While not exactly glamorous, the practical utility of using a parked car as a mobile office is a reality for many remote workers and digital nomads, which not only saves time but also allows for quicker responses to needs at work and home.

Realtors, traveling contractors, field service providers, and freelancers who rely on Internet access between job sites or meetings can all benefit from a solid in-car WiFi solution.

Important Considerations Before Choosing an Option

In-car WiFi makes it easier than ever to stay productive, entertained, and connected while you’re on the road. But before you jump into a mobile Internet solution for your vehicle, it’s worth taking a closer look at what you really need and what each option involves.

Coverage and Network Reliability

Because you’re going to need a phone and/or Internet plan to access the Internet while in your car, it’s important to remember that mobile carriers vary in terms of rural and highway coverage. To determine which Internet and mobile phone provider is right for you, research network maps and consider your typical routes. Let coverage determine which provider is best for you.

If you’re going to be traveling across far distances, a major carrier is probably your best bet for coverage.

Monthly Data Use and Plan Limits

You’ll also want to consider how you’ll be using your in-car Internet. With video Internet streaming, remote work meetings, and online gaming, you’ll consume data quickly. Be sure to review plan limits, check for fair use throttling, and opt for high-data or unlimited tiers where possible.

Yes, it costs more, but it will save you money and frustration in the long run.

Device Compatibility and Cost

Because not all vehicles come with factory-installed systems, and because aftermarket devices or independent hotspots can often require setup costs, you’ll also want to weigh one-time costs versus long-term value.

If you just need in-car WiFi for a two-week family road trip, for example, your solutions will be very different from a digital nomad who’s going to be posting content and live streaming while on the road.

Why a Great In-Car Connection Starts with a Solid Home Network

One way to ensure your in-car WiFi setup works as you need it to is to start with a solid home Internet bundle and network. Especially if some of what you’ll need on the road is synced content, software, and/or settings, a solid home network will help keep everything in order.

Syncing Devices Before You Leave Home

Before you hit the road, use your home WiFi to pre-load maps, update any apps you’ll be using, or download entertainment to keep from relying on streaming too heavily. Not only will this keep cellular data usage minimal, but it will also ensure smoother travel.

There are few things as frustrating as losing connectivity at a crucial moment on a road trip or during a pivotal point in a TV show. Preloading what you’ll need at home will keep you safe from such frustrating mishaps.

Home Base Should Be Just as Fast

By now, avid Internet users understand that a fast and stable home Internet connection is essential for streaming, uploading, or syncing across multiple devices. This goes double for tech-dependent households with travel routines. Don’t skimp on home Internet just because you’re also utilizing Internet in your vehicles.

What happens before you start the car can have a big impact once you're out on the road. A dependable home network makes your travel routine smoother, saves time, and lets you get the most out of your in-car WiFi, right from the start.

Not sure how fast your Internet needs to be to keep up with your household’s usage? Take our Internet speed test quiz.

Stay Connected On-the-Go with SmartMove

SmartMove is your one-stop information center to help you manage both home and mobile Internet services in one place, so you never lose access. Whether you’re entering a more travel-heavy lifestyle phase or you’re getting ready to move and want to keep your cable and Internet services the same.

SmartMove can help you select Internet and mobile data plans designed for commuters, travelers, and/or hybrid lifestyles. When you type in your address, you'll see results sorted by flexibility, network strength, and bundling perks.

Get the best home Internet and WiFi in car services and bundles available where you live and travel with SmartMove.