Working remotely from an RV can be an amazing way to see the country while still earning a paycheck. But keeping a fast, reliable internet connection while constantly on the move does present some unique challenges. In my years of working on the road, I’ve tried all kinds of creative solutions to get online. From jerry-rigging antenna setups worthy of MacGyver to charming small-town librarians into giving me the wifi password, I’ve picked up plenty of tips and tricks along the way.
Weighing the Main Internet Options
When it comes to getting online in your RV, you’ve basically got three options: cellular data plans, public wifi hotspots, or satellite internet service. Each has its own pros and cons.
Cellular Data Plans
Going with a mobile hotspot plan through Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile or other cellular providers is often the most convenient choice. You don’t have to hunt down wifi networks as you travel – the connection just comes from the mobile router in your RV. Many full time RVers rely solely on cellular data as their internet source.
The downsides are that coverage can be spotty in rural areas, speeds are sometimes slower than wired connections, and data usage caps can mean paying overage fees if you use too much data streaming videos or doing large uploads/downloads. Make sure to research different carriers’ coverage maps to find one with the best reach for your travel plans. I’ve found Verizon generally has the most widespread 4G LTE coverage around the country.
Public Wifi Hotspots
Parking your RV and connecting to the free public wifi at coffee shops, campgrounds, restaurants, hotels, and other businesses is another decent option. The price is right (free!), but speeds can be hit or miss. I’ve seen campground wifi networks so overloaded that even browsing social media was painfully slow.
Make sure to only access sensitive accounts or data over a secured network. Never enter passwords or credit card info on public networks that could be hacked. On the plus side, wifi hotspots are ubiquitous now, so you can often string together enough stops to check email and get work done without eating into your cellular data.
Satellite Internet Service
The most expensive option, but satellite definitely delivers the fastest, most reliable speeds. Companies like Viasat and HughesNet offer plans with unlimited data so you don’t have to worry about caps. However, equipment purchase/installation, monthly fees, slower speeds due to latency, weather disruptions, and 2 year contracts make this a pricier proposition.
Satellite works best for RVers planning extended stays in more remote locations. If you’ll constantly be on the move hopping between campgrounds with decent wifi, cellular plans usually make more economic sense. I only go with satellite for longer boondocking stints in the desert or mountains when I know I’ll need totally dependable access.
Optimizing Your Cellular Data Plan
For most full time RVers relying on cellular data for their main connectivity, choosing the right carrier plan and optimizing usage are key to staying online without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to stretch your data allowance as far as possible each month:
Prioritize Signal Strength
Not all cellular coverage is created equal. Always try to park your RV where the mobile router gets at least 3-4 bars of steady signal. Check the indicators on your router or use a signal mapping app like OpenSignal. Even moving your rig just 100 feet in a campsite can sometimes mean the difference between one bar and full signal strength. Stronger signal equals faster speeds and lower data consumption.
Use Wireless Extenders
Adding an external antenna or wireless extender to your mobile hotspot can help pull in a better cellular signal. There are two basic options: directional antennas that point toward the nearest cell tower, or multi-directional models that pick up signals from all around. For RVers constantly on the move, I’ve found omnidirectional antennas work best since you’re not stationary. Be sure to place it high up with line of sight to the sky for best reception.
Disable Auto App Updates
Having apps constantly update themselves in the background burns through precious data. Turn off auto updates in device settings and only manually update when connected to wifi. Streaming music, video, and gaming will also eat up your allowance faster than basic web browsing.
Use Data Compression Apps
Enable data compression settings in browsers like Chrome or Firefox to save some cellular data usage. Opera browser also has a free built-in compression mode. The Opera Mini app for Android and iOS will shrink data usage by routing webpages through their servers for optimization before reaching your device. It can slow page loading, but helps conserve your plan’s gigabytes.
Monitor Usage Closely
Keep an eagle eye on how much data you’ve used each billing cycle. Almost every carrier has an online dashboard or smartphone app to track consumption. Set usage alerts at 75% and 90% of your plan cap so there are no surprises. Adjust your usage as needed in the final days of the cycle to avoid overages. If you do run over your limit consistently, it’s probably time to bump up to the next higher data allotment.
Scouting Out Campground Wifi
When boondocking off the grid, you’ll still need an occasional wifi fix. Campgrounds and RV parks often have some form of public network, but the speed and reliability range widely. Here are some ways to scout out the best connections:
Ask Neighbors
Other campers are your greatest resource. Don’t be shy – introduce yourself to the folks parked nearby and ask about their experience with the local wifi. Nothing beats first-hand intel from fellow RVers who’ve already tested out the network.
Check Campground Reviews
Sites like Campendium, RV Park Reviews, and Yelp can be helpful for getting user feedback on campground wifi. Double check the dates on reviews to make sure they’re current. Take negative reports with a grain of salt, but if multiple recent reviews complain about slow speeds, it’s probably not great.
Evaluate the Equipment
If possible, try to get a visual on the network hardware installed around the campground. Multiple strong wifi antennas distributed throughout the property is a good sign. Janky setups with dated equipment is a red flag. Newer routers capable of faster wireless standards like 802.11ac usually perform better.
Do Your Own Speed Test
Connect and run speed tests from different spots around the campground at different times of day. I like using Speedtest.net to get download and upload metrics. Congestion tends to be worse in the evenings when everyone hops online after dinner. If the network can’t deliver more than 10 Mbps down, streaming video may struggle.
Sniff Out the WiFi
Don’t be afraid to politely ask the front desk or camp hosts for the current wifi password and any access tips. Sometimes they’ll have multiple networks or repeaters around the grounds that aren’t clearly advertised. Probe for the inside scoop on where connections seem strongest.
Staying productive and online while working remotely in an RV can be challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Follow the tips above and you’ll be able to maintain stable internet access on the road without breaking the bank. With a little planning and effort, you’ll be able to successfully blend wandering with work. Now get out there and start adventuring!
With so many options now available for RVers to stay online, there’s no reason you can’t work or play from just about anywhere the open road takes you. Just be sure to balance your screen time with plenty of time enjoying the great outdoors!
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