Go-To Gear for Getting Internet on the Road

Go-To Gear for Getting Internet on the Road
RVer tips for being connected even in remote areas.

By: GoLife Staff

Having access to the internet is key when planning to work from your RV, but it is also nice to have for watching your favorite shows, playing games, and/or video chatting with loved ones. Whether connectivity is a must or a nice-to-have on your RVing adventures, there are multiple options available!

For many travelers, your phone’s cellular data will be sufficient for your connectivity needs. Some wanting to save on data plan costs may even be content using free WiFi at campgrounds, cafes, and other local stores as needed. However, public WiFi isn’t always as fast, secure, or reliable as you would like it to be. Some RVers will need to have a better internet option when planning to work from the road, take conference calls, or do other tasks requiring a higher-speed connection.

Luckily, there are multiple options to help expand and improve your connection (even in a remote area) – with new solutions becoming available each year. 

Gear for RVer Internet

When deciding what internet plans and gear items to purchase, take into account where you will be needing to have access to the internet and whether a high-speed connection is necessary. That will help you narrow down what you should invest in. (For more tips on managing the logistics of working from home in your RV, read this article.)

• Hot Spot: Most people who work from the road usually start out with a hot spot in addition to their phone. Often, the hotspot will be for another carrier to broaden their chances to reach a signal. However, you must be in a service area for this to work.
• Cell Booster: When you have signal, but it is weak, a cell booster can help improve the signal. However, it can't boost zero bars. So, it is only really helpful if you already have some service.
• WiFi Booster: If planning to use campground or other public WiFi, using a booster can help you get a better signal. However, be sure to check reviews to make sure the place you are planning to use for WiFi actually has the internet speeds you need to get your work done to avoid a hassle.
• TravlFi:  TravlFi gives you internet connection using any cell network in the area by jumping across towers. This is a great option for RVers who previously had multiple cell phone plans to access different carriers. Instead of having multiple phones or hotspots, you can just have the one TravlFi plan and device.
• Starlink: The Starlink satellite-based internet service is becoming a popular option with RVers who want high-speed internet even in more remote places (to upload video content, etc.). While effective, it is important to know that the Starlink dish must be able to be set up with a clear view of the sky and it also must be plugged in. It does come with a long cord, but finding a good spot for it can be challenging depending on where you are camping, your access to power, and what kind of weather you are in. The dish is also quite large, compared to the tiny hotspots you may be used to, so you will need to consider where to store it.

For a review of some of these latest options for internet on the road, check out Winnebago Ambassador Peter Holcombe’s video below outlining what he uses to stay connected, even in remote areas. You can also see his workstation setup here.

What is your go-to setup for having connectivity on the road?