Photo from Unsplash

Originally Posted On: https://www.highspeedoptions.com/resources/insights/best-internet-options-rv

 

HighSpeedOptions prides itself on providing honest, quality content. While we may be compensated when you make a purchase through links on our site, all opinions are our own. Here’s how we make money.

Traveling around in an RV is a fantastic way to explore and see the world. But just because you’re on the road doesn’t mean you can’t have access to reliable internet.

Whether you need it for work, planning, or simply getting directions, finding ways to stay connected to the internet can be one of the many challenges to RV life. We’ve compiled a guide to finding the best internet options for your RV to keep you connected while on the move.

The Challenge of Mobile Internet for RVs

When you’re on the road, your internet access needs don’t change. It’s just as critical as it is under normal circumstances. You still need internet service for work, streaming and entertainment, planning and reservations, and even “road-schooling” your kids.

[Callout] Finding internet access while traveling around in your RV can be very frustrating, but there are some solutions that can provide the connectivity you need.

If you’re giving the RV life a try, you’ll need to get accustomed to wireless internet options and understand that the quality of your internet connection will change day to day. Here are several solutions for reliable internet connections while on the road.

Best RV Internet Options

Though figuring out an internet situation while living in an RV may require more effort, there are a few main options that work for most:

 

Cellular Data

For those on the road full-time, cellular data can be a pretty appealing option. Cellular data plans, or hotspots, are useful for when you find yourself far from reliable and secure public WiFi sources.

To set up a cellular data plan, you’d need to buy a hotspot from an internet service provider. Your provider may set data caps for hot spots, so it may be most cost-efficient to spring for the unlimited plan.

As great as cellular data can be, an unlimited plan can get expensive. Still, it’s well worth the reliable connection, availability, and flexibility for many campers.

 

Public/Campground WiFi

Wherever you go, you almost always have the option of connecting to a public WiFi—whether it’s in a campground, Starbucks, or public library. Using public WiFi can be a great way to save on internet costs, especially if you plan to stay on campgrounds and RV parks and don’t want to go too far into the wilderness on your own.

Still, campground WiFi has its drawbacks. Often, these networks are slower and less reliable, and there’s a good chance you’ll find it difficult to join video calls or stream TV. Since it is a public WiFi, be sure to take the necessary safety and security precautions to protect your device and your information.

 

Stationary Satellite Internet

Satellite internet solutions have become an increasingly popular option since Starlink internet service opened the doors to greater speculation about using satellites for high-quality internet worldwide. Because of its portability and wide availability, many travelers install satellite internet service in their RVs. This can be a great option if you plan on staying in the same place for a long time.

Still, if you’re more of a nomad, a satellite can be too complicated since you’ll need to set it up and recalibrate it at each new campsite. However convenient and available it is, satellite internet is one of the slower services.

Tips to Get the Most Out of Your RV Internet

Even though establishing an internet connection while traveling in an RV can feel like a hassle, many have found great workarounds. Luckily, there are a few ways to help connect and maintain your internet service.

1. Subscribe to unlimited data

As mentioned before, many RVers spring for an unlimited data plan even if it’s a bit more expensive. These expensive plans can actually cost less than paying for data above and beyond your provider’s data limits. If you know that you’ll consistently need more data than the limit allows, it’s almost always less expensive to go with an unlimited data plan.

2. Get a cellular signal booster

A cellular signal booster is a device that increases the signal on a device from one to two bars of service. Boosters are helpful when your connection is really low, and they can mean the difference between being able to access an online map and being left to find your way to a campsite on your own.

However, boosters can often cost up to $500. They can also work against your signal in certain situations. If you decide to get a booster, we recommend turning it off when the signal is strong enough on its own.

3. Get a WiFi extender

A WiFi extender, or repeater, is another gadget that can help speed up your connection, especially when you’re using a campground WiFi. Once it’s set up, an extender will rebroadcast the WiFi signal it’s receiving inside your RV, creating a stronger and faster signal.

An extender can be a great way to boost your WiFi signal while using a public network, and several newer RVs come with extenders integrated into your rig. The WiFi extender becomes a part of the public WiFi network, so we again urge caution and security to protect your privacy and information.

Other Internet Alternatives for RVs

If you’re new to RV life, or aren’t sure that a cellular plan, public WiFi, or satellite internet is right for you, there are still a few internet options that are available for you:

Co-working spacing in urban areas

Most cities and urban areas have some version of co-working spaces where you can rent a desk for a few days while you’re in town. This can be a great way to use high-speed internet for work or travel plans, but it isn’t a great long-term solution.

Borrowing bandwidth from friends when you visit

If you happen to swing by a friend’s city, you may be able to borrow some of their internet while you’re in town. This could be more secure than using public networks and would probably give you a great connection during your stay.

Subscribe to Cable or DSL provider at a campground

If you’re planning on staying at a campground for an extended time, you may have the option to subscribe to their cable internet or DSL provider. It might be a hassle to set up but this will give you secure, reliable, and high-speed internet during your stay.

To set up your service, you’ll need to pay the installation and monthly fee. Some campgrounds already have cable installed, making it even easier to simply pay the monthly fee for the rest of your visit.

 

RV Internet FAQs

Can I get HughesNet or Viasat for my RV?

Though you may be able to use a HughesNet or Viasat satellite internet for your RV if you’re staying in one place for longer than a few days, it isn’t a great solution in general. Each time you change locations, you’ll need to pack it up and then set it up and calibrate it for optimal performance.

What’s the difference between a cellular hotspot and a satellite hotspot?

Even if they both get the job done, how you travel and what your goals are may impact whether you choose a cellular hotspot or a satellite. A cellular hotspot is great for RVers who don’t stray too far from civilization and need fast speeds.

On the other hand, satellite internet is great for travelers who like to stay in remote places that most internet providers don’t cover. Since they tend to be slower, satellites can also be a great option if you mainly use the internet for less-intensive activities like navigation or sending emails.

How much does it cost to get RV internet?

Naturally, the cost of getting internet in your RV can vary based on what you’re using, how often you need it, and whether you purchase any gadgets like boosters or extenders. But, since it’s the most common option, taking a look at cellular plans can give you a good idea of what to expect.

For cellular data, you’ll need to pay somewhere between $150-$500 for your hotspot device in addition to your data plan itself. If you don’t absolutely need high-speed internet, it may be enough to get a hotspot on your phone, which you can use to connect to other devices when free WiFi isn’t available.

Can I get Starlink for my RV?

Sort of. At the moment, Starlink is still too early in its development to be a realistic option for the majority of RVers. For one, it currently only serves a handful of countries and regions between 45 and 53 degrees north latitude. The other major issue with Starlink is that it is on the more expensive side, with equipment costing over $500, and more than $100 a month for service.