Londoners Say Wi‑Fi Is Life‑Sustaining – Even If It Means Hanging From Piers
New LNER Study Reveals the lengths people go to stay online
According to fresh data from LNER, the iconic train operator, a shocking 27% of Londoners confess they’d borrow a neighbor’s Wi‑Fi or even “hang” outside windows just to get a signal. The numbers got even creeper when we asked how far they’d walk for free internet.
- 37% – admit they’d “live without Wi‑Fi.”
- 21% – would walk more than four miles on a cold, rainy day just for a spot.
- 26% – have or would actually hang outside a window for the good connection.
- 21% – are happy to stand outside their home in terrible weather and improper clothing.
Wi‑Fi Influences Travel Choices
When it comes to traveling, most people are flexible if a free patch of Wi‑Fi is nearby.
About one third of Londoners (34%) would change both where and how they travel just so they can connect. Even more—22%—would choose to sit alone on a train rather than hold hands with their family, simply for the sake of a robust signal.
When Money Fights With a Good Signal
Money’s not always a check‑mate in this fight against the wireless void.
- 23% groan about splashing cash on upgrades to maintain an uninterrupted connection.
- 25% admit they’ll linger way longer at a station than necessary just to keep surfing.
- 15% turns a waiting room into a temporary office to finish a report.
Where People Hunt For Wi‑Fi
It turns out Londoners will go to any place imaginable for a digital fix.
- 19% say they’d also go to a former workplace or study location if it meant getting online.
LNER’s Big Move: Free Wi‑Fi On All Trains, All Classes
“Whether it’s work, social or play, we want to help Brits stay connected to the people and things that matter to them,” said Claire Ansley, Customer Experience Director at LNER. “So when they’re aboard one of our trains, they can enjoy hassle‑free, free-of-charge Wi‑Fi whether they’re traveling in Standard or First Class.”
