Camper Trailer Wifi: Getting Connected On The Road

Getting WiFi in a camper trailer is a great way to stay connected and enjoy modern comforts while exploring nature. There are several options for getting WiFi, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. You can use your phone as a hotspot, add a hotspot router to your mobile plan, or opt for satellite internet. Using your phone as a hotspot is suitable for shorter trips and light internet usage, while adding a hotspot router provides more flexibility and is ideal for those who need a stable connection for work or streaming. Satellite internet is the most expensive option but offers a reliable connection in remote areas. To make the right choice, consider your budget, data needs, and the areas you plan to travel to.

Using your phone as a hotspot

Each carrier offers its own unlimited plan, but not all carriers are ideal for mobile living, based on factors like text and call coverage, LTE coverage, and high-speed caps on data. Without a WiFi booster, you need to have the best data coverage possible if you’re going to use your phone as a hotspot.

Depending on your mobile phone plan, you may also find that speeds are ‘throttled’ after you use a certain amount of data, meaning that the provider slows down your speeds. It’s also important to note that not all phones are capable of sharing a hotspot, however, most smartphones have the function built-in. Here’s how to find your phone’s hotspot:

• IPhone: Settings > Personal Hotspot
• Android: Settings > Network & Internet > Hotspot & Tethering

Verizon

Verizon is one of the most popular plans used by full-time vanlifers and RVers. Their unlimited plan offers three different tiers: GoUnlimited, BeyondUnlimited, and AboveUnlimited. On the GoUnlimited plan, users get unlimited talk and data plus an unlimited hotspot at 600 Kbps. To test what that meant in real life, I tethered my computer to my Verizon phone and typed “Netflix” into my browser to test the signal. The page took about a minute to load (full disclosure, I had about 13 tabs open), but once it did the video streamed clearly—though nothing like HD.

GoUnlimited Verizon plan by the numbers:

• $65/month + taxes and fees (roughly $8-$10/month) per line for two lines
• Unlimited mobile hotspot at 600 Kpbs
• Mexico and Canada talk, text, and data included

T-Mobile

In their most recent push, T-Mobile stretched their coverage far and wide across the United States. Before switching to Verizon in the fall, I fangirled over T-Mobile. Their international plan blows every other carrier out of the water. If you’re not looking to stream or surf the web in wild and remote places, T-Mobile provides coverage in populated areas and there’s a good chance it will cover the campground you’re staying at. They offer a simple unlimited plan that includes everything, even taxes and fees.

T-Mobile One plan by the numbers:

• $60/month per line for two lines
• Standard Netflix included with 2 or more lines
• Unlimited mobile hotspot at 512 Kpbs
• Unlimited texting and 2G data in 210+ destinations
• Free texting via Gogo when you fly

AT&T

Many of the users in The Dyrt’s Facebook Campfire sing AT&T’s praises; it offers enough coverage to go from California to Maine on an epic road trip. It’s Unlimited &More Premium plan gives users live TV, unlimited talk, text and data, and a 15GB hotspot. Note that with the basic Unlimited &More plan, tethering is prohibited.

AT&T Unlimited & More Premium plan by the numbers:

• $75/month per line for two lines (taxes and fees may apply)
• Unlimited mobile hotspot at 15GB per line
• Unlimited talk, text, and data
• Subscription to HBO, Cinemax, Showtime, Starz, YRV, Amazon Music, or Pandora

Adding a hotspot router to your existing mobile plan

Choosing a Hotspot Router

First, you'll need to choose a hotspot router that is compatible with your mobile carrier. Most major carriers offer their own version of a hotspot router, so you can start by checking with your current provider. The device acts as a standalone modem, receiving the same signal as a cell phone without the capability for phone calls.

Adding the Hotspot Router to Your Plan

Once you've selected your hotspot router, you'll need to add it to your existing mobile plan as an additional line. Contact your mobile carrier to inquire about adding this feature to your plan. You may be able to add it yourself by logging into your account online or through your carrier's mobile app.

Purchasing the Hotspot Device

In addition to adding the hotspot feature to your plan, you will also need to purchase the hotspot device itself. The cost of these devices can vary, but they typically range from $50 to a few hundred dollars. Keep in mind that your hotspot is only as good as the coverage of your carrier, so be sure to research the coverage in the areas where you plan to use it.

Data Plan Considerations

When adding a hotspot router to your existing mobile plan, consider your data usage and whether you need to upgrade to an unlimited plan. Streaming Netflix in regular definition, for example, uses about 1GB of data per hour, while streaming in high definition uses about 3GB per hour. If you plan to use your hotspot router for data-intensive activities like streaming or downloading large files, an unlimited plan may be the best option to avoid overage charges.

Battery Life and Charging

Using your hotspot router will consume battery life, so investing in a portable charger is a good idea if you plan to use it frequently. Additionally, using a hotspot can eat up data quickly, so monitor your data usage to avoid exceeding your plan's limits or incurring additional charges.

By following these steps, you can easily add a hotspot router to your existing mobile plan and enjoy WiFi in your camper trailer.

Satellite internet

There are two main types of satellite internet setups for camper trailers: roof-mounted and tripod-mounted. Roof-mounted satellite dishes are attached to the roof of the camper trailer in a fixed location. They are simple to operate and can be deployed with the click of a button. The satellite will then automatically rotate to find a signal, usually within 10 minutes. Roof-mounted satellites are convenient and easy to use, but they are also larger and more expensive.

Tripod-mounted satellite dishes, on the other hand, are attached to a movable three-legged stand that can be placed anywhere around the camper trailer. This setup is more affordable and allows for more flexibility in parking locations, as you are not limited by the need for a clear view of the sky. However, it does require more manual setup and calibration each time you move your camper trailer.

When choosing a satellite internet provider, some popular options include Starlink, Viasat, and HughesNet. These providers offer flexible plans suitable for camper trailers and other mobile vehicles. Starlink, in particular, has a dedicated plan called Starlink Roam, tailored specifically for digital nomads and mobile users.

In addition to the monthly service fee, there are also equipment and installation costs associated with satellite internet. Equipment costs can range from $300 to $600, and installation can cost around $100 for professional setup. While satellite internet can be expensive, it may be worth the investment for those who require a reliable connection in remote areas.

Local public/private Wi-Fi

If you're staying in an RV park with local Wi-Fi, a Wi-Fi extender can help you boost the signal and take advantage of free internet while on the road. Wi-Fi extenders are designed to help you pick up weak or distant Wi-Fi signals, allowing you to get better reception when connecting to public networks. The Bearifi BearExtender Wi-Fi Extender Antenna is one of the most affordable models on the market. It's worth noting that this type of extender is different from the ones used at home to boost the range of a router. Instead, it allows your computer to pick up Wi-Fi signals from farther away.

Even if your RV park doesn't offer Wi-Fi, you can still take advantage of public Wi-Fi in other locations. Fast-food restaurants, libraries, and National Park Visitor Centres often provide free Wi-Fi. To access these networks, you may need to park close to the building or invest in a good Wi-Fi extender.

For RV travellers who want to stay connected, local public/private Wi-Fi can be a great option. It's affordable, convenient, and often reliable, especially with the help of a Wi-Fi extender. So, whether you're checking in with family, working remotely, or streaming your favourite shows, local Wi-Fi can keep you connected on the road.

Wi-Fi boosters

There are several options available on the market, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Here are some of the top Wi-Fi boosters for camper trailers:

• Alfa Wi-Fi Camp Pro 2 Long Range Wi-Fi Repeater RV Kit: This booster can connect several devices simultaneously and is suitable for use in yachts and marine environments, in addition to RVs.
• Winegard ConnecT 2.0: This booster offers speeds of up to 450 + 450 Mbps and can support up to 10 devices. It is a good option for areas with limited coverage.
• Securifi Almond Touchscreen Wireless Router/Range Extender: This booster is ideal for areas with limited coverage and is designed for van life and RVs.
• Bearifi BearExtender Outdoor RV & Marine: This booster provides a substantial boost of up to 2.4 GHz and is perfect for a single computer setup.
• KING WiFiMax Pro Wi-Fi Router/Range Extender: This booster can be used on its own or bundled with an external antenna that mounts on the roof of your RV. It offers dual-band technology (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and provides a secure, private, and password-protected network.
• KING Falcon Directional Wi-Fi Antenna Bundle with WiFiMax: This powerful booster actively scans for networks and connects to signals that are further away. It is controlled by the KING WiFi app on your phone and can connect multiple devices.
• WeBoost Drive Reach Overland: This booster boosts 5G & 4G LTE signals for all major U.S. carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. It is FCC-approved and made in the USA.

When choosing a Wi-Fi booster, consider factors such as signal strength, range, ease of setup, and the number of devices you need to connect. Additionally, look for boosters that offer password-protected connections and dual-band connections to ensure a secure and optimal browsing experience.

Frequently asked questions