Whether you are a full-time RVer or go on the occasional RV getaway, it’s important to many to stay connected to the Internet. Some check their financial accounts and RV-related apps, while others use the Internet for earning income on the road. For some RVers, Internet is almost as vital to the experience as fresh water and power. In a perfect world, Wi-Fi would be available everywhere; however, the options for staying connected when RVing are typically less dependable and vary compared to living in a fixed location. While on the road, you may be faced with connection conflicts – varying connections, speeds, and limitations on the use of data. Below are some tips on staying connected while RVing.
To get started, ask yourself four questions:
- How important is being connected to the Internet to you? Is the Internet your source of income? Or, do you need the Internet for social and daily activities – e-mail, banking, or social media?
- How much inteInet data will you be using? Will you be streaming video content? Music? Downloading content?
- What type of RV lifestyle do you have? Are you a full-time RVer? Do you spend the occasional weekend on the rig? Do you spend your time at lots in the middle of nowhere or closer to town?
- What is your current plan and budget? Is your current Internet status acceptable?
After answering those questions, consider your connection options. There are three common ways. All three have their pros and cons, and it is important to consider your RV lifestyle in making the best decision for you.
- Public or Private Accessible Wi-Fi Networks
Examples include McDonald’s, public libraries, RV parks, rest stops, coffee shops, and more. Public and private networks are typically hit or miss opportunities. Whether they are truly free or not is variable to the user’s definition. Often, when using the “free”Wi-Fi, you end up having to purchase something or be a registered guest. Sometimes the connection doesn’t even work. The most important and pressing issue with public Wi-Fi is safety: an unsecured connection. It is recommended to create your own VPN if you are going to use public Wi-Fi to check accounts and access other personal information. Most RV campgrounds, parks, and resorts offer free Wi-Fi to their guests. However, the strongest connection is located inside the clubhouse. If you are in a distant lot, this could be a hassle and may require you to purchase a booster for access from your rig. Remember, free and cheap options often trade off convenience and security.
- Satellite Connection
Commonly known connections include Dish, Hughesnet, and Starband. However, other providers exist. Many RVers don’t recommend this type of connection. It typically is poor as it requires crystal clear access to satellites thousands of feet in the air. If your lot is covered in trees or you are constantly on the road, don’t plan on your connection working. Not only is the connection unreliable, satellite is a more expensive option and requires heavy equipment to be installed on your rig. Again, do some serious research before going this route.
- Wireless Service Providers
These are cell phone networks. Verizon, AT&T, and Sprint are used the most and offer many mobile connection options. Many of these networks have also created mobile Wi-Fi to link to your Internet-ready devices, which means less battery and data usage from your smart phone. This is becoming an increasingly popular option to staying connected. Many companies are providing reasonably affordable plans. Below is a list of wireless service providers. Most offer both contract and prepaid options. With research, you can find which suits your RV lifestyle. When it comes to mobile Wi-Fi (Mi-Fi), service experience relies heavily on coverage and the quality of the network you choose to use.
To view a comparison table of wireless service providers, click here. Keep in mind that the connection you choose should be based on your connection needs. Based on other RVer reviews, it is recommended that the full-time RVer should consider Verizon because of the contracting option and extended network coverage. If you are the occasional or weekend RVer, True Connect offers 3G speeds and a prepaid option. For seasonal RVers or those who hardly use the Internet while in the rig, it is recommended to activate your mobile broadband device and use your cellular device as a hot spot.
Whether you’ve decided to purchase your own mobile plan or stick to a public connection, your lot location will play a big part in the strength of your internet connection. RVers have found two popular solutions to receiving better signals:
- Purchase and install the Wi-Fi Ranger
These devices can cost anywhere from $200-$700. Despite the price tag, the Wi-Fi Ranger integrates superior Wi-Fi and mobile broadband reception so that you are always connected.
- Purchase a Wi-Fi Antenna or Booster
This is significantly cheaper than the Wi-Fi Ranger option. Although it isn’t as powerful, for less than $100, you can significantly improve your Internet connection. For more information regarding antennas or boosters, click here.
Remember, we are not Internet connection experts and cannot ensure that you will be connected 100 percent of the time. Connections and speeds will vary with location – it is best to research the area around your lot to see what works best for you.