Choosing the Right Internet Connectivity For Your RV
Travelers have grown so used to using cellular data in order to connect to the internet while on the go, but is this the right option for your Airstream or RV lifestyle? Your options for internet connection include using a dedicated mobile hotspot, cellular modem, cellular integrated mobile router and hotspot or tethering from your smart phone.
Hotspot or Tethering from your Smart Phone
What is this?
A Hotspot is when you are using the device in order to create a wireless hotspot that several other devices are connected to. Tethering is when you connect a laptop or router to a cellular device, which only allows one device to share the connection.
Does this work for me?
Using a smart phone to connect to the internet is very easy and does not involve managing any extra devices. Though simple, it is not ideal for multiple people or a family to use this one item for connection. The battery on the device drains faster so it will need to be plugged in and using the device to talk on the phone while someone else is using its connection will slow down the internet speed. This option is best for the solo traveler or travelers that do not have a serious dependence on the internet for important tasks.
Dedicated Mobile Hotspot
What is this?
The Dedicated Mobile Hotspot is a small, self-contained unit with a built in battery. What Mobile Hotspots do is receive a cellular data signal which then broadcasts a Wifi hotspot that allows you connection to the internet.
Does this work for me?
This is a simple and easy to understand option for those who are looking for a multi-person or even a multi-device traveler. This product is perfect for those who need the internet for important tasks and for those who do not want to bother with tethering from a smartphone and need their Airstream or RV to still have internet access when they are away and can even have the option to bring it along with them. This type of router is very simple, but may not be fast enough for your needs. There are others routers you can get to have faster or a longer range of connectivity.
Cellular Modem
What is this?
The Cellular Modem is a simple solution that needs to be plugged in in order to be functional. There is less that can go wrong with a cellular modem and they are a bit more reliable than cellular hotspots.
Does this work for me?
This option is best for the solo traveler that only needs one laptop connected to the internet.
Cellular Integrated Mobile Router
What is this?
The Cellular Integrated Mobile Router option uses a dedicated router that shares a cellular plan, while it creates a more advanced and high-end local area network. This network is capable of supporting multiple devices along with integrating other upstream data connections.
Does this work for me?
If you are someone who is a bit more tech-savvy and are comfortable with the basics in networking. This option if for those who are interested in connecting multiple devices in their Airstream/RV. Specifically for those who have more complex connectivity needs including those needing wired local network and if you need your devices connected consistently.
No matter what you choose for you internet connectivity in your Airstream or RV it is important to keep your equipment up to date and replacing what you have every few years in order to keep up with the latest cellular standards.