- Enjoy Widespread Coverage from Coast to Coast
- Stay Connected Off the Grid
- Access Speedy Connections for HD Streaming
- Access Your Favorite Apps and Services
- Enjoy Steady Signals in Any Weather
- Choose from a Range of Providers and Plans
- Enjoy Seamless Coverage Across State Lines
- Enjoy Automatic Switching Between Satellites
- Access Affordable Equipment Options
- Enjoy Unlimited Data
- Access Backup Options for Redundancy
- Enjoy Entertainment on the Go
- Work Remotely from Your RV
- Leverage Public WiFi for Savings
- Choose a Robust Satellite Dish System
- Consider an All-In-One Satellite Router
- Consider a Satellite WiFi Booster
- Use a WiFi Management App
- Use a VPN for Added Security
- Know Where to Mount Your Satellite Dish
- Carefully Plan Power Needs for Equipment
- Learn the Basics of Satellite Dish Operation
- Brush Up on WiFi Basics
- Have a Backup Plan for Satellite Outages
- Compare Providers Thoroughly
Reliable internet is essential whether you need to work remotely or just want to stream your favorite shows at night. Satellite internet could be the solution you need for connectivity across the country.
When I first started RVing, I struggled to find consistent internet. My old dish had weak signals that cut out whenever a cloud passed overhead.
Enjoy Widespread Coverage from Coast to Coast
One huge benefit of satellite internet is the potential for service across the entire continental US. With land-based broadband, you’re limited by the reach of cables and towers. But satellites circle the whole planet, meaning you can get a signal almost anywhere!
I’ve driven my RV to 45 states now, and satellite keeps me connected through long stretches of rural America. I remember getting great speeds while boondocking in the lonely deserts of Nevada. Even up in the mountains of Colorado, I can upload photos and send emails without issue.
Satellite works by bouncing signals from satellites orbiting the earth to small dishes installed on vehicles. So as long as you have a clear view of the southern sky, you can pick up a signal just about anywhere, from backcountry camping spots to Walmart parking lots.
It sure beats hunting for sketchy open WiFi networks or dealing with sluggish cell data plans. I used to dread driving through rural “dead zones” where I’d lose all connectivity for hours. Now I don’t think twice about long cross-country treks far from cities, knowing my satellite link will keep me plugged in.
Stay Connected Off the Grid
Another major perk of satellite is that it allows RVers to stay connected while boondocking off-grid. Since it doesn’t rely on local utilities like cable or phone lines, all you need is power for the satellite equipment and a clear line of sight to the sky.
This makes satellite a top choice for RVers who prefer boondocking and need dependable internet for work or entertainment. You can camp out in the most secluded spots and still stream movies, join video calls, or work remotely if your job allows it.
I love this flexibility since boondocking allows me to really immerse in nature and find some peace and quiet. But it also means I can continue earning a living on the road. As a freelance writer, I can submit articles from wherever I’m parked, whether in a National Forest campground or on BLM land out in the desert.
Boondocking does require some planning though. Since I rely solely on battery power, I need to monitor my usage carefully. Running the satellite modem, router, and amplifiers takes a chunk of juice, so I make sure my batteries are fully charged via solar, generator, or driving. Energy conservation allows me to work online for a few hours each day before I drain my reserves.
Access Speedy Connections for HD Streaming
In the early days of satellite, sluggish speeds and data caps made it difficult to do much online. But the latest generation offers increased bandwidth and unlimited usage so you can fully enjoy the benefits of connectivity.
I’m now getting over 100 Mbps downloads from my satellite connection. For perspective, 25 Mbps is the FCC minimum to be considered “broadband.” So I have plenty of speed for smooth HD streaming. I can watch Netflix or YouTube with no buffering issues, and join Zoom calls without video lag.
The fast speeds also allow me to quickly upload high-res photos from my travels to share on social media. And I can knock out work projects without waiting ages for big files to transfer.
Just note that latency (lag time) is still higher with satellite versus cable since the signal has to travel a massive round trip to space and back. I notice a small delay on video calls or gaming. But for general browsing, streaming, and productivity, the speed more than makes up for a bit of latency.
Access Your Favorite Apps and Services
With a fast satellite link, I can fully utilize the apps and tools I enjoy both for work and play. I stream TV on Hulu and Netflix, listen to Spotify and Pandora music, take video calls on Zoom and FaceTime, upload to YouTube and Instagram, research on the web, manage my budget in Quicken, write in Google Docs, access my work software and email, and so much more.
It?s a breath of fresh air after struggling by on slow cell data plans. I used to constantly bump up against restrictive data caps that left me offline by mid-month. And sluggish speeds made even basic web browsing a pain. Forget streaming or uploading large files.
Now I don?t have to limit or carefully schedule my internet usage. I can browse endlessly, stream to my heart’s content, and get work done without worrying about running out of data. It’s such a game changer to have fast, unlimited access wherever I roam.
Enjoy Steady Signals in Any Weather
One common misconception is that satellite internet falters in bad weather. But advances in technology have largely solved past issues with rain fade (signal loss). I’ve used my satellite WiFi extensively in stormy conditions with minimal interruptions.
The newest generation of dishes use higher frequencies that are far less susceptible to disruption. And multiple redundancies are built into the network, so traffic can be instantly rerouted in the rare instance a signal is blocked.
I will sometimes notice slower speeds or brief drops during an extreme downpour or heavy snow. But service typically resumes within seconds. And performance is a major upgrade compared to my old setup. I used to lose my connection for hours anytime a cloud passed overhead. So a few minor slowdowns during severe weather is a tradeoff I?ll gladly take.
Bottom line – don’t fear stormy skies! Satellite technology has come a long way. You can now enjoy steady signals rain or shine.
Choose from a Range of Providers and Plans
There are a few major players in the residential satellite internet game to choose from. Viasat, HughesNet, and Starlink all offer RV-friendly options without multi-year contracts. Plans are available that allow you to pause or cancel anytime – perfect for transient RV living.
I chose Viasat for their excellent coverage, high speeds, and unlimited data. But HughesNet and Starlink also get solid reviews from RVers. Each offer unique advantages, so research thoroughly to find the right fit.
Most providers offer several plan tiers at different price points. Entry-level options are affordable if you just need basics like web browsing and email. Power users will benefit from premium plans with higher data caps and speeds.
Consider factors like:
- Monthly data limits
- Speeds/bandwidth
- Latency
- Weather resilience
- Contract flexibility
- Setup fees
- Equipment costs
Look at your connectivity needs and budget to strike the right balance. You can adjust plans as needed since lengthy contracts are not required. Don’t overpay for capacity you won’t use but make sure to get enough speed and data for HD streaming and heavy use if needed.
Enjoy Seamless Coverage Across State Lines
One of the headaches with regional cellular providers is having to switch networks as you road trip across the country. You might enjoy blazing speeds in one locale that turn molasses-slow 10 miles down the road in a different coverage zone.
But with satellite, you remain connected to the same network wherever you roam nationwide. There are no roaming fees or headaches finding local towers. The satellite network operates as one seamless grid.
I do still keep a cell plan active for redundancy and to take advantage of free public WiFi when available. But I mainly rely on my satellite for primary connectivity coast to coast. It?s so freeing to cross state lines without worrying about network switching issues.
Satellite makes it simple to use a single provider everywhere. Although cell networks are expanding, nothing beats satellite for consistent performance across vast distances. I get the same speeds boondocking in Arizona that I do camping in Maine.
Enjoy Automatic Switching Between Satellites
One neat tech feature is that satellite networks automatically switch your dish connection between satellites as you move around. This happens seamlessly without any action needed on your end.
Low earth orbit satellites circle the globe rapidly, ensuring you remain “handed off” to the closest one nearby as you drive down the road. It’s all managed behind the scenes by the provider’s network operations center.
The automatic switching means you don’t have to hassle with manually changing settings or acquiring signals. Wherever you park your RV, the dish knows which satellite to link with to give you the strongest connection.
Automatic satellite switching is a genius innovation for RVers. Driving hundreds of miles in a day used to mean constant interruptions. Now you can keep streaming music or watching shows without a hitch even as satellites swap out repeatedly during long journeys.
Access Affordable Equipment Options
Upfront costs used to be a big deterrent for RVers considering satellite. But companies now offer much more affordable lease options for equipment like the dish and modem.
Many providers let you lease gear for little to no upfront cost, bundling it with your monthly service fees. You can also find used equipment online from past subscribers upgrading their setups.
I was wary of dropping $600+ on fancy electronics that would be obsolete within a few years. But now I pay under $10 monthly to lease my modem and dish. If technology improves, the provider replaces my leased equipment free as part of routine upgrades.
Leasing helps limit the risk of investing in expensive hardware that depreciates quickly. Just be sure to read the fine print to understand the terms like:.
- Costs of early cancellation
- Purchase option when the lease ends
- Responsibility if equipment is damaged/lost
There are also all-in-one solutions like satellite routers that simplify setup. And self-install kits make DIY setup feasible for the handy RVer.
While satellite does require specialized gear, you do have options to keep costs reasonable as an RVer. Leasing through your provider or buying used can help minimize the initial investment.
Enjoy Unlimited Data
One of the worst parts of using mobile data plans is constantly rationing usage to avoid overage fees. You have to meticulously monitor consumption and limit activities like streaming high-def video. Run over your cap and you’ll get painful throttling or charges.
But satellite internet offers unlimited data so you can use the internet freely. Most plans don’t impose restrictive caps or meter usage anymore. I’ve yet to exceed the “Priority Data” thresholds a few providers enforce during peak congestion times – even when going all out with bandwidth-heavy uses each month.
It’s incredibly liberating to have unmetered access without worrying about data rationing. I can stream movies all evening and then video chat with family without paying overages. Some plans advertise caps but don’t enforce them if you do exceed them occasionally. Just read the fine print so you know what to expect.
The unlimited data plus blazing speeds enables all sorts of bandwidth-heavy applications I’d avoid on cellular. Now I can download huge app updates without running up my phone bill. And I gladly backup all my photos and videos to the cloud since it doesn’t eat into a finite allowance.
Ditch the data anxiety and enjoy the internet without limits! Satellite makes that possible wherever your rig rambles.
Access Backup Options for Redundancy
While satellite internet is far more reliable than in the past, any technology can occasionally have hiccups. Severe weather, network maintenance, or equipment issues can very rarely cause temporary outages.
That’s why I always recommend keeping backup options on hand for redundancy. Cellular data as your primary modem or hotspot is perfect for filling gaps. You can also look at WiFi boosters to strengthen signals, or wired campground connections when available.
I actually switch between using my satellite, cell data, and WiFi simultaneously for maximum flexibility. My router intelligently selects whichever has the best signal strength. If my satellite cuts out briefly, it failovers to LTE or WiFi to maintain connectivity.
You don’t have to solely rely on satellite unless you regularly stay in super remote areas. Blending it with other sources ensures you always stay online even if speeds slow. Just be sure to disable cellular data for large downloads or streaming unless you have an unlimited plan.
Enjoy Entertainment on the Go
It’s 2022 – we all expect round-the-clock access to entertainment on our devices these days. But RVers used to have a hard time streaming or gaming with laggy satellite and restrictive data caps.
Now I can cue up Netflix downloads for a long drive and continue watching shows or movies at night wherever I park. My unlimited data plan means I can go crazy streaming HD video whenever I want without blowing through a monthly allowance or incurring overage fees.
Streaming live TV through apps like YouTube TV or Hulu with Live has also been a game changer. I can watch news and shows as they air instead of only archived content. Picture quality is fantastic with my fast satellite speeds – on par with cable or fiber. Out here in the desert boondocking, it feels like I have a mini entertainment center beamed from space!
And games stream smoothly with minimal latency. I’m not a hardcore online gamer, but I can play casual mobile games, Words with Friends, trivia apps, and more with no lag issues.
Don’t skimp on a data plan and be stuck with dial-up equivalent speeds only suitable for text emails. Get a plan with enough capacity to make your downtime more entertaining. Satellite delivers an amazing streaming and gaming experience rivaling what home internet users enjoy.
Work Remotely from Your RV
The work-from-home trend has been a boon for RVers who want to travel full-time but still earn a living. Jobs that can be done remotely over the internet offer new freedom and flexibility. But you need dependable connectivity.
I’ve been able to continue my freelance writing career from the road thanks to satellite WiFi coupled with hotspot redundancy. I can video conference with clients, research articles online, and securely submit finished work – all from thousands of miles away.
Satellite is perfect for RVing professionals who:
- Take phone/video calls and meetings
- Transfer large files
- Use VPNs and remote desktops securely
- Need steady bandwidth for video chat apps
- Engage on social media and community forums
- Access web-based systems and project management software
- Require real-time collaboration and communication
Don’t let work be an obstacle to your nomadic dreams. Satellite and cellular working in tandem can deliver business-class connectivity from even the most scenic boondocking sites.
Just be sure your satellite plan provides truly unlimited data. Video calls eat up data fast! You don’t want slow throttling mid-meeting when you hit a cap.
Leverage Public WiFi for Savings
While satellite keeps me connected in remote areas, I do like to fire up my WiFi hotspot and scanner app whenever I roll into towns. Establishments like coffee shops, bookstores, campgrounds, libraries, etc. often broadcast public networks.
Latching onto these free public hotspots whenever available helps conserve my cellular data allowance and keep my satellite usage reasonable during peak congestion times. If I’m working online for the day, I’ll definitely park somewhere with open WiFi to reduce my satellite data usage if possible.
You can find hotspots through apps like WiFi Map, OpenSignal, and WeFi. Reviews reveal whether a network needs a password or purchase to use. I simply log on and enjoy free WiFi courtesy of the business. Just be sure to buy a coffee as a thank you if hanging out a while!
Public WiFi does have security downsides so I avoid accessing financial sites or doing sensitive work. I mainly use it for simple tasks like email, social media, and basic web browsing. When I need to handle important data, I switch back over to my private satellite or cellular for security.
Blending free public WiFi when available with your satellite service helps keep costs down. But favor satellite for critical applications requiring speed and security.
Choose a Robust Satellite Dish System
To reap the benefits of satellite internet for RVs, you need the right rooftop dish setup. Many factors impact performance, including:
- Dish diameter – The wider the dish, the stronger the signal. Up to 2.5x better performance than compact options.
- Dual modems – Allows smooth failover from one satellite to the next as you move.
- Gyro – A gyroscope provides extra stability when driving, reducing interruptions.
- Power – An amplifier boosts weak signals. Some dishes have an integrated modem, router, and amplifier for simplicity.
- Mounting – A sturdy roof installation prevents wobbling and misalignment. Automatic positioning is ideal.
I chose an advanced dish with automatic tracking and gyro technology. It continuously optimizes my connection strength as I drive without any need to manually tweak alignment. Setup was plug and play.
The premium dish and dual modem provide blazing speeds even in weak signal areas like dense forests. The equipment costs were higher than basic options but deliver performance that’s worth it.
Don’t cheap out on dish infrastructure if your RVing lifestyle demands top-tier bandwidth. Pay a little more upfront and the satellite hardware will pay for itself through years of exemplary service. A flimsy eBay special will just lead to headaches and interruptions.
Consider an All-In-One Satellite Router
Some satellite modems also function as WiFi routers, consolidating functionality into a single device. They make setup simpler since you don’t also need to configure and connect a standalone router.
I chose a modem/router combo unit specifically designed for RVs. Having an all-in-one eliminates clutter, reduces power draw, and saves space in my rig.
The built-in router provides WiFi throughout my RV as well as wired LAN ports for devices like smart TVs. Some even have built-in cellular as a backup if the satellite cuts out. Plus I get advanced functionality like WiFi extenders, guest networks, parental controls, and more.
All-in-one routers are fantastic for newbies since they’re so easy to use out of the box. You plug in one device that handles everything from dish communication to WiFi broadcasting. Just link your devices to the password-protected network it provides and enjoy internet access immediately.
I strongly recommend this simplified approach if you want your satellite internet up and running fast without any headaches.
Consider a Satellite WiFi Booster
While satellite internet has improved reception, you can still encounter weak signals when trees or mountains block the dish’s view. A WiFi booster adds an extra antenna inside your RV to strengthen the internal signal.
I use a booster in my rig because the fiberglass walls do cut down WiFi penetration from my roof-mounted modem/router. The booster grabs the external signal, amplifies it, and rebroadcasts indoors.
Now I enjoy faster speeds and expanded coverage throughout my RV. I used to get unusable WiFi in my bedroom since it was farthest from my modem in the front. But the booster gives me a full signal and 75+ Mbps speeds there.
A booster is a cheap way to optimize performance when your RV layout or building materials hamper reception. Just position the interior antenna in a central location for optimal area coverage.
Some newer satellite routers have onboard amplification or WiFi mesh extensions to boost interior reach. But an aftermarket booster is an affordable option to maximize speeds rig-wide if your router lacks range.
Use a WiFi Management App
With all the WiFi sources available today like satellite, cell, public hotspots, campground WiFi, etc., it can get confusing knowing which is best to use. A WiFi management app simplifies connecting to the optimal signal.
I love using apps like Netgear Orbi that automatically select between available hotspots based on speed, data usage, and security factors. When I pull into a site with public WiFi, Orbi connects me right away while seamlessly backing up to satellite or cellular if needed.
The app even selects the best WiFi band to use for each device – 2.4GHz vs. 5GHz. And I can set permissions, prioritization, and usage caps specific to each network source or individual device.
This makes juggling multiple connections a breeze. I stay secure on my private RV satellite or cellular data while streaming media and working. But simple tasks auto-hop onto public WiFi to conserve my data allowance. It’s all automated for convenience.
WiFi management apps are invaluable for RVers. Ditch network confusion and enjoy intelligent multi-source connection optimization.
Use a VPN for Added Security
One downside of public networks is the lack of encryption. On open hotspots, your browsing activity and data can be intercepted. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides an extra layer of security.
When I need to access banking or work sites using public WiFi, I connect through my VPN app first. This funnels my traffic through an encrypted tunnel before accessing the internet. This protects me from snoops or attacks on open networks.
A reputable VPN also shields your location and IP address, providing privacy. Your true location is masked, which also allows accessing region-restricted content worldwide.
I always keep my VPN active as I surf just to be safe, disabling it only for bandwidth-heavy needs like streaming. Apps make it easy to turn the encryption on and off as needed.
A quality VPN is essential when relying heavily on public WiFi. Make sure to find a fast, reliable provider that doesn’t impede speeds much. This ensures security without sacrificing performance.
Know Where to Mount Your Satellite Dish
To pick up signals reliably, you need to carefully consider satellite dish placement:
- Mount on vehicle roof for 360° range of motion – easier to get line of sight.
- Place at highest central point possible for best visibility range.
- Ensure no obstacles like A/Cs or vents are in the way.
- Follow distance guidelines from roof edge – usually 2 feet minimum.
- Consider a pole mount to lift dish above roof accessories if needed.
- Use premium coax cables to prevent signal loss – go as short as possible.
- Install a weatherproof exterior outlet if wiring into RV interior to avoid drilling holes.
- Use heavy-duty mounting hardware – bolts/brackets/rails rated for travel.
- Seal and waterproof connections thoroughly – sealing washers, rubber boots, etc.
Don’t just plop a dish down anywhere and eyeball alignment! Precise installation is critical. Survey your roof and map out the optimal placement in advance.
Sturdy pro equipment like Thule or Winegard mounts will withstand vibrations and extreme weather. Don’t skimp on bargains that corrode or fail at highway speeds.
Carefully Plan Power Needs for Equipment
All the modems, routers, amplifiers and controllers for satellite systems require consistent 12V DC power. Heres what to factor:
- Peak power draw – Add up all equipment loads to size electrical system needs.
- Wiring gauge – Follow minimum guidelines to prevent voltage drop over distance.
- Fusing – Protect sensitive electronics from electrical spikes or surges.
- Battery bank capacity – Plan for extended boondocking runtime.
- Solar panels – Recharge batteries continuously.
- Generators – Gas/propane generators provide backup charging.
- Inverters – Quality pure sine inverters provide clean 120V AC.
- Surge protectors – Prevent fried gear from power fluctuations.
- UPS battery backup – Keeps equipment safely online during switching.
- RV-rated power strips – Avoid household strips tripping breakers.
- Display/monitors – Consider LCDs over CRTs to cut power consumption.
Don’t just plug your new satellite modem into the nearest 12V jack! Do an electrical audit first to ensure clean, steady power delivery. Added equipment load may require upgrades like a second battery bank and larger inverter.
Learn the Basics of Satellite Dish Operation
Operating a satellite WiFi system takes some familiarity to master:
- Turn on dish for ~10min warmup before aligning.
- Monitor signal strength meter on modem as aligning.
- For auto-tracking dishes, just press “connect.”
- Manually align fixed dish using compass and elevation finder.
- Realign anytime RV is moved – dishes can’t work in motion.
- Keep snow/debris cleared from dish surface.
- Reboot modem if WiFi connectivity drops.
- Use smartphone app for system monitoring and resets.
- Check for firmware updates and install to dish/modem if available.
- Coarse/fine skew adjustment may be needed in northern locations to counter earth orbit angle.
With a little practice aligning the dish and learning your equipment’s operation, getting connected becomes second nature. Don’t hesitate to call tech support anytime an issue pops up – they can often diagnose problems instantly.
Brush Up on WiFi Basics
To maximize satellite WiFi performance, it helps to have some general networking knowledge:
- Position router centrally for widest WiFi coverage.
- Minimize obstructions between devices and router.
- Connect devices via ethernet cable whenever possible – faster and more reliable than wireless.
- Disable unnecessary router radios like guest networks or Bluetooth when not needed to reduce interference.
- Use 5GHz WiFi band for compatible devices – much less interference than old 2.4GHz networks.
- Set devices as high priority in router settings if needing critical bandwidth.
- Upgrade router firmware frequently for latest security and compatibility.
- Reboot home network devices like modems/routers regularly – can clear glitches.
- Limit WiFi usage when bandwidth is constrained – use ethernet or limit streaming.
- For multiple users, enable router bandwidth management/QoS controls so heavy usage doesn’t bog down the network.
Take some time to optimize your RV network setup and become WiFi-savvy. This allows you to isolate any connectivity problems to the source and maximize performance.
Have a Backup Plan for Satellite Outages
While satellite connectivity has proven extremely reliable, occasional brief outages do still happen during severe weather or network issues. That’s why I always recommend having a backup way to get online if needed.
Cellular data is a great option for filling gaps. Just use your phone’s hotspot if the satellite goes down. Apps now make it easy to automatically failover to cellular when needed.
Wired campground internet works fantastic as well if staying at a hookup site. And public WiFi, while less secure, may be available via nearby cafes or shops during town stopovers.
I can run my entire RV internet setup on public hotspots if needed for simple uses like email. It allows me to pause my satellite service temporarily if camping somewhere with great WiFi availability.
Just try to identify backup options before you absolutely need them. Scout out nearby public WiFi, keep cellular data handy to hotspot with, and bring an ethernet cable to hardwire in. This ensures you have continuity if bad weather or other issues take satellite offline temporarily.
Compare Providers Thoroughly
Don’t just dive in with the first satellite company you stumble across. Vet providers thoroughly before signing any contract:
- Research coverage maps for the regions you’ll visit. Look for gaps!
- Confirm dishes can handle travel speeds and rapid satellite switching.
- Read the fine print on data limits, deprioritization, etc. Unlimited means unlimited!
- Ask about contract flexibility for seasonal suspends or cancellation.
- Look for guaranteed minimum speeds in writing.
- Check that weather resilience technology is up to date.
- Compare monthly fees and startup costs side by side. Watch for hidden fees.
- Make sure dish size and technology fits your performance needs.
- Read reviews carefully for real customer experiences – not just marketing fluff.
- Confirm any monthly data limits are truly sufficient for your usage.
- Chat with sales to clarify anything unclear before signing.
Don’t get mesmerized by flashy ads with promises no company can fulfill. Vet the technology, coverage, and service thoroughly across multiple providers before purchasing. Getting stuck in a lackluster contract is no fun!
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