RV internet options for the best connection

Whether you’re planning the great cross-country trip you’ve always dreamed of, or hoping to live a more mobile lifestyle, there are ways to bring recreational vehicles into the 21st century so you can go off the grid while still staying connected.

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; they are mobile homes and offices with an abundant choice of views.

But what about RV internet? How can you have good enough internet to work if you’re constantly on the move? Are there insider tips on getting good RV Wi-Fi?

We’ve got you covered! Whether it’s satellite internet, a cellular connection or a mobile hotspot, you’ll find the best RV internet solution for your travels.

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.

Free Wi-Fi hotspots

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.

In cases where your provider may not have a Wi-Fi network, you can take advantage of free hotspots in larger cities and some campgrounds. For instance, in Seattle, attractions like the Space Needle and coffee shops like Starbucks offer free Wi-Fi. The obvious downside here is that you’ll need to be in a specific location to take advantage of these internet connections. Also remember, public networks can also be dangerous.

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.

Paid Wi-Fi hotspots

If you have internet at home and are traveling for a few weeks or months in an RV, you can take advantage of 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.

AT&T 

AT&T has prepaid mobile hotspot and tablet plans available that work if you are in a serviceable area. The plans range from 20 GB of data for $25/mo. to 100 GB for $90/mo.

AT&T’s in-car Wi-Fi data plans start at $25/mo. They also offer six-month and annual plans and a 30-day plan to ensure coverage while you’re on a car trip. See if your vehicle is covered here.

Verizon

Verizon is a popular option for travelers since they have travel-friendly options for hot-spot users. The plans range from $20 for 15 GB to $80 for 150GB of data. You just need to be in a Verizon-serviceable area to use your data. 

T-Mobile

T-Mobile has hotspot mobile internet plans that include unlimited texting and data, starting at $10/mo.for 2 GB of data to $30/mo. for 10 GB of data.

Many mobile carriers also offer unlimited mobile hotspot data with their unlimited plans. Explore the best unlimited hotspot plans from mobile carriers.

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.

What’s the best option for RV internet?

When leading the nomadic lifestyle, using your cellphone to connect online is the easiest option, but be wary of the possible charges and, of course, service from your carrier needs to be in the area you are traveling.

Do some planning before you turn on your cellphone’s mobile hotspot and connect your laptop or tablet when away from home. Remember, most major cell companies have add-on mobile hotspot plans or include hotspot data with certain plans, so look into the best option before you connect to avoid overpaying.

What is the cheapest RV internet option?

Free public Wi-Fi hotspots are the cheapest RV internet option. Your campground could offer a free hotspot, but you can almost always find free Wi-Fi in other 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.

RV Wi-Fi FAQs