Best internet options for your RV or camper

RV ownership has increased by 62% in the last 20 years, and over 11.2 million American households own an RV. RVs are no longer just recreational vehicles; they are mobile homes and offices with an abundant choice of views and various internet service options.

RV internet options

There are several options for getting internet in your recreational vehicle. If you plan a long vacation but need internet access, you should consider the more permanent option of satellite. Your cell phone provider can also provide you with hotspot or cellular data to use for more short-term options.

RV satellite internet

If you plan to make an RV your new home, you may want to consider setting up a satellite internet connection. This is a more permanent solution, though, and it would be best if you plan to park your RV in one place for a long time — not if you’re driving around regularly. Unlike cellular data that relies on nearby cell phone towers, it’s a great connection type for hard-to-reach or rural areas since your signal comes from satellites above.

Starlink

Starlink offers a pay-as-you-go plan for travelers for $150/mo, with a one-time hardware fee of $599. It’s easy to pause service when you get back home, too. Everything is provided to you to set up your RV service easily – you just need a clear view of the sky. Starlink also has Starlink ‘Mobility,’ which allows for up to 220 Mbps high-speed internet while you’re in motion. These plans start at $250/mo. But come with a hefty hardware fee of $2,500. Check out Starlink’s availability and coverage map. 

Viasat and Hughesnet

Two major satellite providers in the U.S. are Viasat and Hughesnet. Both providers are available in every state. Viasat and Hughesnet offer data plans that won’t cut you off after you reach your limit but will sometimes throttle your speeds.

Hughesnet and Viasat are available anywhere; Starlink is growing its footprint. Starlink has unlimited data; Hughesnet and Viasat won’t cut off your service for going over your cap, but may throttle speeds a bit. You must be in a stopped position to access the satellites, so surfing or streaming isn’t available while you are moving. Hughesnet and Viasat require a two-year agreement; Starlink has a pay-as-you-go feature for travelers

Mobile hotspots

If you have internet at home and travel for a few weeks or months in an RV, you can use your internet service provider’s hotspot network. Providers like Spectrum and Xfinity offer thousands to millions of Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide.

You can often turn your phone into a mobile hotspot or purchase a portable mobile hotspot to take your connection with you on your travels. AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon offer cellular data and mobile hotspot plans.

Perhaps the easiest — and cheapest — way to get an internet connection while traveling in an RV is to rely on free Wi-Fi hotspots. This solution is probably best for anyone who’s traveling for a shorter time, not necessarily using their RV or van as their home since it’s not a reliable connection.

Campground Wi-Fi

Some RV campgrounds offer a Wi-Fi connection in the park to provide free internet for campers. But depending on the campground size and your location, you may need a Wi-Fi extender to get the speed you need. If you’re relying on RV internet from the campground but also a mobile hotspot for backup, you may also need a cellular booster to help amplify your cell signal and, therefore, improve your camping Wi-Fi signal.

Cellular internet

As the need for strong internet options on the road grows, so are the options. With your mobile plan, consider adding a cellular router with a modem for your advanced needs like video conferencing, gaming and more. RVLove.com recommends a cellular router for great connectivity while living in an RV. Of course, you’ll need a suitable mobile plan to support your needs.

Nomad

Nomad Internet removes the need for mobile hot-spotting with one carrier by providing cellular internet from available carriers. For traveling nomads, this can be a great option for RV internet service. Nomad’s prices range from $99.95 – $149.95/mo. for 100 – 200 Mbps internet speed and unlimited data.

RV internet final thoughts

Free public Wi-Fi hotspots are the cheapest RV internet option. You can almost always find free Wi-Fi in public places like coffee shops or public attractions. Just be wary of the dangers of public Wi-Fi and take measures to keep yourself safe while online.

Your campground could offer a free hotspot, but if you do use a campground Wi-Fi spot, you may need a Wi-Fi extender to get the best connection. 

For short trips, your mobile phone’s hotspot plan may be sufficient for your needs. If you are a seasoned, longterm traveler, you may want to invest in a more permanent solution like Starlink or Nomad. 

RV Wi-Fi FAQs