RVers have a number of different internet options to choose from, ranging from mobile hotspots to satellite. It’s important to know which will work best for your needs before you start living the RV life.
A dependable connection is critical for working remotely, streaming movies and TV, and “road-schooling” your kids. Check out our RV Internet Setup Guide for more information.
Table of Contents
1. Cellular
As with home internet, there are multiple options for RVers to choose from when it comes to getting the internet they need while traveling. These include cellular service, satellite, Wi-Fi extenders, and co-working spaces.
The most common way to connect to the internet while on the road is using cellular service. Whether you’re on the move or staying at an RV park, it’s possible to get 4G LTE cellular service from most major wireless carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time out of cell phone coverage areas, satellite internet is a good option for RVers looking for high-speed Internet.
For RVers who are on the road full-time, cellular data plans and hotspots can be a cost-effective solution. However, it’s important to understand that cellular data isn’t always reliable in remote locations.
Having a reliable connection while on the road can be a big help when you’re working remotely, streaming videos, or staying connected with friends and family back home. The most effective solution to this problem is to have a high speed internet plan with unlimited data available to you on the road.
While it may seem like a luxury, having an unlimited data plan can save you a lot of money in the long run. It’s also a great way to stay connected while on the road, especially when you’re visiting family or other destinations that don’t have public Wi-Fi.
Another way to ensure that you’re always connected is to invest in a cellular signal booster. These devices boost your cellular data signals from one bar to two bars, making it easier to access the internet in remote areas where traditional Wi-Fi isn’t reliable.
You can even buy these devices in portable versions so that you can take them with you on vacation or camping trips without the need to have your own cellular device. The best part is that many of these products are surprisingly affordable, so you can enjoy a good connection while you’re out and about with minimal fuss.
Regardless of the type of cellular data service you choose, it’s important to be aware of how your internet provider limits your data usage on their hotspots. This can be a good way to save money, but it’s also a risky approach because you might end up burning through your personal data on the spot.
2. Satellite
When you’re traveling in your RV or van, you’ll need to have reliable internet access to keep up with your online activities. Luckily, there are many options to choose from when it comes to connecting your mobile devices to the internet.
One of the most popular methods is using satellite service. This is especially helpful if you’re boondocking or want to use your RV as a home base for extended periods of time.
There are several different types of satellite service, and some providers are more suited for RVers than others. These include Viasat, Starlink, and HughesNet.
While satellite is a great option for RVers who need a fast and reliable internet connection, it also has some drawbacks. For instance, the signal can be fickle, and you may not be able to get a strong connection in certain areas of the country.
Another issue with satellites is that the distance to the nearest satellite is relatively large, which can cause latency issues and slow speeds. This is especially true if you’re trying to watch a video or make audio calls.
For this reason, it’s important to consider the length and duration of your trip before deciding which type of internet service is right for you. Then, you’ll be able to find the best solution for your needs and budget.
To set up satellite internet, you’ll need a dish (or antenna) that connects to a modem and router. The dish can either be mounted on the roof of your RV or placed on a tripod.
The biggest advantage of a satellite is that it works worldwide. This is mainly thanks to geosynchronous satellites, which orbit the Earth at a distance and speed that matches the planet’s rotation.
If you’re interested in satellite, the first thing you need to do is decide if it’s right for you. It will depend on your location, the length of your trip, and how often you plan to boondock.
If you’re a serious traveler and want more options for your RV, consider getting a satellite internet, mobile phone, and satellite TV bundle with one provider. These bundles can be extremely convenient if you don’t have residential service and will save you a lot of money in the long run.
3. Wi-Fi Extender
The internet is a great tool for traveling, work, and entertainment, but it can be difficult to get reliable connectivity in remote areas. That’s where Wi-Fi extenders come in. They’re great for covering a dead spot in your home or office, boosting the signal to an otherwise weak area, and even beaming a strong Wi-Fi signal to your garage or basement.
Generally speaking, there are three main types of Wi-Fi extenders: repeaters, boosters, and rangers. All of them boost your existing Wi-Fi signal to improve internet connectivity. These devices typically come in a variety of prices and features, so it’s important to pick the right one for your needs.
First, you should check your RV’s Wi-Fi router to see if it’s working properly. If it is, you may not need a Wi-Fi extender. Instead, try moving your router closer to your device and adjusting its location until you get an excellent signal. If your device still isn’t getting a solid connection, you might need to upgrade your router or buy a new one altogether.
Another option is to connect to public networks at campgrounds or co-working spaces. Using a virtual private network (VPN) can help you use these connections without exposing your personal information. A VPN can also cloak your IP address, which will make your connection more secure and anonymous.
If you’re looking for a reliable Wi-Fi extender, consider the TP-Link RE605X. It works as a repeater to rebroadcast the Wi-Fi signal that’s already in your RV. It’s a little more expensive than other models we tested, but it does everything we need and is built to last. It’s easy to set up, too.
You can even connect the RE605X as an access point, a feature that lets you plug in an Ethernet cable to a nearby outlet and use it like a wired internet connection. This means your network can handle more devices and deliver faster speeds than you’ll find with a regular wireless router.
Finally, there are cellular data plans that can be great for a mobile hotspot in your RV. These plans typically use the same bill as you pay at home, but you’ll want to be careful about using too much data on your smartphone, especially if you travel in remote areas. It’s also helpful to choose a carrier that has good coverage in the locations you’ll be visiting.
4. Co-working Spaces
One of the best ways to get RV internet in remote areas is to use co-working spaces. These spaces are great for freelancers, startups, and even mid-sized companies looking to reduce costs while still offering a collaborative work environment.
Besides being a cost-effective alternative to traditional office space, coworking is also a good way to build morale and networking. You can find many coworking spaces around the world that offer worldwide memberships with desk space, private offices, and meeting rooms. These spaces have a vibrant community with business events, speakers, and networking opportunities for their members on a regular basis.
These spaces are ideal for startups and freelancers as they are inexpensive compared to leasing long-term or writing out hefty deposit checks. They also have a lot of perks for their members, like gym memberships, car rentals, and hotel stays.
In addition, they often hold networking events and conferences that help them connect with new businesses and potential clients. They also offer educational workshops and brainstorming sessions to their members on a regular basis, ensuring that their members are constantly learning.
The coworking industry has grown in recent years as more and more people are turning to a remote work culture. These spaces have become essential for the modern workforce, allowing workers to work remotely and still maintain a sense of community.
They can be used by individuals or small companies to collaborate with others without the expense of large office space, and they can be paid for on a monthly or daily basis. This gives them a lot of flexibility and allows them to take advantage of the latest technology, including mobile devices, tablets, and computers.
When looking for a coworking space, it is important to choose one that is close to your location. You want to be able to reach it easily by bike, public transportation, or car.
Another thing to look for is whether the space offers an onsite cafe or coffee bar. This is especially important if you plan to work from the space for hours at a time. This will help you to be more productive when working in the coworking space because you won’t have to worry about a lack of caffeine to keep your productivity levels up.
