Intro to The Best RV Internet Options for 2024
First off, as always, no BS, no affiliate links, let's get down to business. Since 2020, we've experimented with all sorts of internet solutions for all budgets on over 45 camper vans and mobile office vans.
Brooklyn Campervans was one of the first to get their hands on Starlink. Since then, we've custom built our own integrations with it, showed it off at the NY International Auto Show, and continued to keep up with the new generations of Starlink coming out.
We're going to jump right into it and say that Starlink has far outpaced any technology out there. It's more of a question as to "which Starlink?"
Then we'll chat about free or cheaper options.
Satellite Internet vs WiFi Network Providers (Wireless Carriers)
Satellite internet uses satellite technology to beam internet signals from space directly to the Starlink dish installed at the user's location. This connection bypasses terrestrial infrastructure like cables and phone lines. This means there's no dead zones in Yosemite National Park or other protected land where there are no infrastructure.
Because it relies on satellites in space, satellite internet can provide coverage in rural and remote areas where services relying on traditional internet infrastructure (like DSL, cable, or fiber) are unavailable.
Finally at up to 250 mb/s speed, the internet is often faster than what I have at home in NYC.
What this means for Van Lifers is the following:
Greater safety: More coverage means your covered in more places when an emergency happens
Access to Van Life apps: These apps help with daily essentials, from where to explore, sleep overnight, get gas, and more. Check out 9 Best Van Life Apps of 2024.
Freedom to play & work remote: A reliable connection is a huge concern for remote workers. You can schedule calls with confidence OR you can feel confident you can watch movies tonight without needing to pre-download.
Improved standard of living: I don't know how else to say this: for better or for worse, we use the internet for everything, and if my internet is reliable and 10x faster, my standard of living is just higher. I don't have to wait for Google Maps to load to see where I'm going.
Access to Bluetooth Connectivity: Your camper van becomes a smart home. You can remotely monitor your battery levels, cameras, and most importantly- for people with pets - the temperature! We dove deep into Van Life with a Dog, and internet helps!
Best Satellite Internet for RV
We did an entire article with tests on here called "Starlink For VanLife and RVs - What's New?"
To summarize, if you're the type of person:
that wants to build the ultimate solution for a top-of-the-line camper van:
The 12v Gen 3 Starlink is reliable for uninterrupted video calls and online gaming but draws a little bit more power. There are more components to be installed, and is a harder to set up.
that wants a quick, easy, and cheap solution:
The Starlink Mini is no set-up (the router is built into the antenna) and it packs tiny. It has about 25% slower speeds but that's typically not noticeable for daily activities. The hardware and internet costs are much cheaper.
Cheaper Options on How to Get WiFi in a Camper Van
Satellite internet is not cheap and most people don't need to be connected ALL the time. Here are the solutions for people who want to save money, and stay more connected with nature.
Use Your Cell Phone
The ultimate hack for internet connection on the road? Just tap into your cell phone plan for data! Most smartphones come equipped with a hotspot feature that lets you tether other devices, such as your laptop, to your phone. This uses your existing mobile data plan to provide internet access to your devices. It doesn't incur any additional costs beyond your regular monthly payment and is effective wherever you have cellular service.
Cell Phone Hotspot for Van Life
In the U.S., leveraging your cell phone’s hotspot feature is a popular solution. The downside is that it's not great to connect multiple devices. Major U.S. cell phone carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer robust data plans that include hotspot capabilities, allowing devices to connect to the internet through your mobile network. This is easiest way to get internet in your RV.
Top 5 Mobile Hotspots for Van Life WiFi
Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L - Known for its extensive coverage and dependability across the U.S. This one is the most popular mobile hotspot device.
Netgear Nighthawk MR1100 - Offers excellent battery life and performance, and with the unlimited mobile hotspot it is ideal for long travels.
Skyroam Solis X - Perfect for those who occasionally travel internationally and need van life internet.
GlocalMe G4 Pro - Works globally without needing a local SIM card, useful for border-crossing trips.
Alcatel LINKZONE - A budget-friendly hot spot device that provides adequate performance for everyday needs.
Cellular Networks and Mobile Hotspot Plan Coverage
Hotspot tip: Think about getting a mobile hotspot from a carrier different from your phone's. This way, you can switch between the two depending on which one offers better service at your location. For instance, if your phone is on Verizon, grab an AT&T hotspot. This helps ensure you're more likely to have a signal, as one carrier may have coverage where the other doesn't.
When choosing a plan, it’s crucial to consider the coverage map of the provider. U.S. networks like Verizon and AT&T offer the most comprehensive coverage, especially in remote areas favored by van lifers.
Signal Boosting Antennas i.e. WeBoost
Imagine you're out there with just one measly bar of cell signal. Flip on a signal booster, and boom—watch that cell service crawl up to 3 bars. For those of you roaming in RVs, vans, or cars, there are cell signal boosters designed specifically to amp up weak 1x, 3G, or LTE signals. Keep in mind, these gadgets can't conjure up a signal out of thin air. You'll need at least a whisper of a signal for them to work their magic, enhancing it a notch or two.
They clarify the signal too. Ever seen full bars but your internet's dragging or your calls sound like they're underwater? A WeBoost can help clean that up. At Brooklyn Campervans, we sometimes add WeBoost to rigs decked out with Starlink - just to cover all the bases.
Weboost costs about $400-$600 and the install is a process. Let us know if you have any questions if the instructions don't seem clear!
Where to get WiFi on the road?
Lastly here are all the resources to get WiFi on the road. You may find that with the growing number of places that carry free WiFi that you may not need to stress at all about being connected.
Coffee Shops:
Coffee shops aren’t just for great brews; they’re also a hotspot haven for road trippers. Starbucks, with locations in nearly every city (and quite a few small towns), offers reliable free WiFi for customers. Local cafes are also a charming option, often providing a cozy corner to check emails or upload your latest travel pics while you sip on some artisanal coffee.
Chain Stores and Fast Food Joints: WiFi with a Side of Fries
Major retail and fast-food chains like McDonald’s, Walmart, Taco Bell, Burger King, Tim Hortons and more, are also great for free internet access. It's fast, convenient, and lets you multitask running errands with staying connected.
Public Libraries: A Quiet Place to Connect
Don’t overlook public libraries as a sweet spot for free WiFi. Libraries are obviously ideal for those needing a quiet environment to work or study. Plus, you'll often find comfortable seating and plenty of power outlets. It’s a peaceful alternative to the buzzing atmosphere of a coffee shop, if you want to get some real planning or remote work done.
Hotels and Motels: Luxe WiFi Options
Even if you’re not checked in, many hotels offer lobby access where you can connect to WiFi. These are extra popular in big cities. I spent my academia days studying in some pretty fancy schmancy lobbies in Manhattan.
Hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton often provide this service, and it’s typically robust enough to handle whatever you throw at it.
Bookstores: Read, Relax, Reconnect
Major bookstore chains like Barnes & Noble not only offer shelves of books but also free WiFi. Browse some books, find a nice spot to sit, and log in to get some online tasks checked off. It’s a relaxed environment that’s perfect for an afternoon of work or relaxation.
Rest Stops: Not Just for Resting
Many rest stops along major highways now offer free Public Wi Fi, making them more than just a place to stretch your legs. These spots are becoming more modernized, providing tourists and travelers with a range of amenities, including internet access.
RV Parks and Campgrounds: Stay Connected in Nature
A surprising number of RV parks and campgrounds offer WiFi, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors without being completely disconnected. While the signal strength can vary wildly, it's useful for sending updates to family and friends or for planning the next leg of your journey.
Top 5 Tips for Reducing Your Data Usage on the Road
Combined with all the WiFi stops, if you can reduce your data usage on the road, then that is another bonus way for saving money! This is for all the people out there not on an unlimited data plan.
1. Optimize Your Streaming
Whenever you have access to Wi-Fi, think ahead. Download music, podcasts, videos, or Netflix shows to enjoy offline later. Streaming video and music can eat up a massive chunk of your data. ESPECIALLY VIDEO. Opt for lower streaming quality settings when using mobile data. Many streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify allow you to adjust the quality.
2. Monitor Your Data Usage
Keep an eye on your data usage. Most smartphones and mobile service providers offer tools that let you track how much data you’ve used and which apps are the biggest data hogs. This can help you make informed decisions about where to cut back.
3. Use Data Compression Tools
Consider using browsers that compress data, like Google Chrome, which has a Lite mode for reducing data usage. These tools can help you browse more without consuming as much data.
4. Cache Maps and Directions
If you rely on navigation apps, cache maps and directions ahead of time while connected to Wi-Fi. Apps like Google Maps allow you to download specific areas for offline use, which is perfect for road trips.
5. Limit Social Media Consumption (and playing online games)
There's ways to change settings so videos don't auto-play. However, the real data-sink is when you get so engrossed into it, 30 minutes have passed, and you forgot who's president. All you know is that your data is gone when you awaken from the stupor. Therefore, some mindfulness goes a long way.
Conclusion
At Brooklyn Campervans, we've seen firsthand how the evolution of mobile internet solutions, particularly the introduction of technologies like Starlink, has reshaped what it means to live and work on the move. The release of Starlink Gen 3 and Starlink Mini marks a significant leap forward, offering lower power consumption and easy setup - now van lifers can enjoy reliable internet access without the logistical headaches.
Whether you choose to spend the money on cutting-edge satellite technology or tap into the ubiquity of mobile hotspots and public Wi-Fi, the landscape of internet options for van life is more robust than ever.
Who knows how this article will evolve in the next year or two! The Sprinter camper vans we build are always changing.
Stay tuned for more updates!
