As more people embrace the digital nomad lifestyle and hit the road in their RVs, staying connected to the internet has become more important than ever. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or just hitting the road for a weekend trip, having a reliable internet connection can make your travels more enjoyable and productive. Here are some tips for staying connected to the internet while RVing:
Invest in an LTE router or hotspot
An LTE router is a device that allows you to connect to the internet using cellular data. These devices come in different forms, including standalone LTE routers, Virtual SIM (eSIM) routers, USB dongles, and built-in hotspots in smartphones and tablets. Investing in a cellular hotspot can be a great option for RVers because it allows you to get online from almost anywhere, as long as you have a cellular signal.
Many folks utilize cellphone hotspots, which can work for temporary use, but have some challenges. First, they are limited to your cellphone's carrier, which means if you have bad cell reception then you also have poor internet service. Second, they also come with very low data packages, generally somewhere between 22-100GB of data per month before your service is either suspended for the month or slowed down to unusable speed.
A better alternative is a dedicated eSIM hotspot, which is able to evaluate the best carrier at the time, wherever you are, and connect to that network with a high data cap or unlimited data cap plan. A huge advantage to this option for those power couples out there, is that you can use this option on the move, where the others are limited to stationary use only.
2. Use campground Wi-Fi
Many RV parks and campgrounds offer Wi-Fi as an amenity. While campground Wi-Fi can be hit or miss, and we have probably all had a bad experience with park/camprground WiFi, it’s worth checking out if you need to get online. Keep in mind that campground Wi-Fi is often slower than cellular data, and it may not be secure, so be sure to use a VPN if you’re doing anything sensitive online.
There are options to boost campground Wi-Fi in your RV, but most come at a cost, so be ready for that. A great article on those options can be found here
3. Consider satellite internet
Satellite internet can be a good option for RVers who need a reliable connection in remote areas where cellular service is spotty. Satellite internet can be expensive, but it’s worth considering if you need to stay connected for work or other reasons. Keep in mind that satellite internet can be affected by weather conditions, so it may not be the best option in areas prone to heavy rain or snow.
4. Stay connected with a booster
A cellular booster can help improve your cellular signal and make it easier to get online in areas with weak or spotty service. Boosters work by amplifying the signal from nearby cell towers, which can improve the speed and reliability of your internet connection.
We recommend Surecall cell boosters, and have great luck with the Fusion2Go 3.0 model. This is a simple antenna that connects to the outside and brings that signal into your RV via a coax cable, which helps get around the interference from your RV's fiberglass or aluminum exterior, and also boosts the signal strength due to the higher gain antenna than what is typically built into your LTE devices.
5. Manage your data usage
No matter what method you use to stay connected, it’s important to be mindful of your data usage. Streaming video, downloading large files, and using social media can quickly eat up your data allowance, so be smart about your usage. You can also look for ways to reduce your data usage, such as using offline maps and downloading content to watch later, or reducing your streaming resolution on your streaming devices and/or streaming services.
In conclusion, staying connected to the internet while RVing is essential for many travelers. Whether you’re working remotely or just want to stay in touch with friends and family, there are several options for staying online while on the road. By investing in a cellular hotspot, using campground Wi-Fi, considering satellite internet, using a booster, and managing your data usage, you can stay connected no matter where your travels take you.
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