Internet Access For Campers: A Guide To Staying Connected

Staying connected while on the road is a priority for many RV travellers. The best option for you will depend on how much data you need, where you're travelling, and your budget. Here are some of the most popular ways to get internet access in your camper.

Free Internet Access Options and Public WiFi

If you're looking for free internet access while camping, there are a few options available. Many modern campgrounds and RV parks provide complimentary Wi-Fi, which can be a convenient way to stay connected. However, the quality and reliability of these connections may vary, and you may experience slow speeds or difficulty accessing the network.

Another option is to seek out public Wi-Fi hotspots in the areas you're travelling to. Coffee shops, libraries, and university campuses often offer free Wi-Fi, although you may need to purchase something or be in a specific location to access the network. Keep in mind that public Wi-Fi networks may have security risks, so it's not recommended for sensitive activities like online banking.

If you're camping near a city or town, you can also take advantage of the free Wi-Fi offered by many businesses, such as fast-food restaurants. National Park Visitor Centres are another potential source of free Wi-Fi, although the signal may not reach beyond the building.

For a more reliable connection, consider investing in a mobile hotspot device or a portable satellite internet system. These options can provide a more consistent and secure connection, but they usually come with data limitations and can be expensive.

When choosing a mobile hotspot device, consider the coverage area, data allowances, and compatibility with your carrier. Devices like the T-Mobile Inseego MiFi X PRO 5G offer a flexible and affordable option, supporting multiple devices and providing a strong signal.

If you're looking for a more permanent solution for your camper, a satellite internet system like Starlink Roam Unlimited can provide high-speed, low-latency internet access even in remote locations. However, it requires a significant upfront investment for the equipment, and the service plans are among the most expensive.

A Cellular Signal Hotspot

In the past, the biggest drawback of getting your internet signal through a mobile hotspot was the cost of data usage. But now, more and more cellular providers are offering unlimited plans.

There are two types of devices: a separate mobile hotspot device, and your smartphone. A mobile hotspot device is more powerful than a smartphone, allowing more devices to connect to it securely. However, it is more expensive and requires its own data plan. Using your smartphone as a hotspot is a convenient, easy way to get Wi-Fi in your camper. It is affordable and, in most cases, already part of your mobile plan. But it can be slow, and it drains your phone's battery.

If you are a frequent traveller who wants a reliable internet connection, a dedicated mobile hotspot is a flexible and affordable choice.

Cable Internet Through a Short-Term Stay RV Park

If you're staying at an RV park for a short period, you may be able to access the internet through a cable connection. Some RV parks have started to offer this service to meet the demand for reliable internet connections and to stay competitive. This option is usually wireless and similar to connecting to WiFi through their router, but some smaller RV parks may offer a hardwired connection.

To access cable internet, you'll need to contact the cable supplier and activate the service. You'll also need your own cable modem to connect to the internet. The cable company will bring a service line down the utility pole and ground it, then string the cable to your RV. This process is straightforward and quick if the cable provider has lines on utility poles near your site.

If you're staying at an RV park for an extended period, this option may be more feasible and cost-effective than relying on cellular data or WiFi. However, if you're only staying for a short time, the setup process may not be worth it, especially if the RV park has WiFi or other internet options available.

Additionally, the availability of cable internet in RV parks can vary depending on the park's location and the cable provider's coverage. Some cable companies may not offer internet service in certain areas, even if they provide cable TV. It's essential to check with the RV park and the cable company to confirm the availability of internet service.

Overall, cable internet through a short-term stay RV park can be a convenient and reliable option for RVers who need a stable connection during their stay.

Satellite Internet Signal In An RV

Satellite internet is an ideal way to stay connected while on the go, but it does come with some drawbacks. It is available virtually everywhere in the US, thanks to satellites in space. The data is transmitted between a dish antenna and a satellite orbiting the Earth, which then sends and receives signals to and from a network operations centre on the ground that is connected to the internet.

The pros of satellite internet include:

• Available in remote locations
• Independent of local infrastructure
• Portable and flexible
• Can provide reliable connectivity

The cons of satellite internet include:

• Higher latency compared to wired connections
• Weather can affect signal quality
• Generally higher cost
• Limited data plans with the potential for throttling

As of 2024, the only portable satellite internet access for RVs is Starlink Mobile (formerly Starlink RV). Starlink connects to SpaceX’s constellation of low-earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet pretty much anywhere, no matter how far from civilisation you go. Starlink offers three different kits, all compatible with Roam plans. The right one for you will depend on your internet usage needs and budget. The Standard kit is the most common and affordable, at $349 with a Mobile plan. The Flat High-Performance dish is Starlink’s luxury offering, providing a stronger signal and minimal positioning for $2,500. The Starlink Mini is half the size and weight of the standard dish and includes built-in Wi-Fi, so you don’t need a separate router.

Starlink Roam’s base plan, Mobile Regional, costs $150 monthly, with a one-time equipment fee of $349 for the standard portable hardware. If you plan on going overseas with your Starlink, you’ll need the Mobile Global plan for $400 monthly.

Starlink Roam Unlimited

There are two types of Roam plans: Regional and Global. The Regional plan allows users to connect anywhere on the continent where the dish was purchased, provided the country authorises it. For example, if you bought the dish in the US, you can connect anywhere in North America. The Global plan, on the other hand, offers international coverage and is priced at $400 per month.

The equipment cost for Starlink Roam Unlimited can be a significant investment. The standard Starlink equipment has a one-time cost of $599, while the Flat High-Performance equipment, which enables in-motion use, costs $2,500. The service's performance may vary depending on location, network congestion, and the status of the Starlink constellation.

Frequently asked questions