Can You Get Internet for Motorhomes?
In today’s modern world, portable internet connectivity is essential. Without it, many of us cannot do our jobs. Whether we are influencers documenting our latest travel exploits, digital nomads working abroad, or someone simply taking a day working away from the office, a stable internet connection that goes where you go is a game changer. For those of us owning a motorhome, internet in the motorhome is a godsend. Spending hours on the road, exploring new places, and finding ourselves in the middle of nowhere, internet access gives us a degree of safety, entertainment and assistance.
Thankfully, motorhome internet is becoming more common and with it now readily available in a host of ways, we thought it best to dive in and show you what you can get and how you get it. That way, you can remain fully connected when you need to be.
What are my motorhome internet options?
There are a host of ways you can remain connected to the internet in a motorhome. Some may offer considerably better connectivity than others, and some may be a little more costly than you’d think. Much depends on what you plan to use motorhome internet for. Light browsing will require something quite different to high levels of streaming!
Motorhome internet via smartphone
Most of us own a smartphone with a 4G or 5G connection these days. Your phone is no laptop or tablet, though, so those reports, films or games may have to take a back seat. Or perhaps not. Using your phone’s internet connection, you can turn it into a Wi-Fi hotspot and tether your smartphone to give internet connectivity to your other devices.
This can be a great option for short-term use but is perhaps best avoided when data transfer is large. You could find that you exceed your data cap quickly if you have one and might see that speeds are frequently inconsistent.
Motorhome internet via dongle
A dongle is a great way to get internet in your motorhome. Plugged into your device, it connects to a mobile network to provide internet connectivity. As it relies on signals from mobile providers, it becomes easy to lose connection in remote areas if the network has limited coverage there. Furthermore, as it is only connected to one device, it really only benefits one user at a time. Ideal for a solo traveller, but not so great if there is more than one of you.
Like with tethering a smartphone, speeds can be inconsistent, and data limits likely apply, meaning it can often be more suitable for occasional browsing and emails rather than streaming shows or gaming.
Motorhome internet via MiFi
MiFi is where you connect a portable router to a 4 or 5G network to allow internet connection for multiple devices in your motorhome. It is a better option than tethering and more versatile than a dongle, but, as it relies on a mobile signal, it can be inconsistent if you end up in a rural or remote area. You won’t need your phone to connect as the MiFi router is on its own SIM card, and this can be hugely beneficial. Where your mobile may struggle for connectivity, some MiFi setups allow for a connection to whichever network has the strongest signal at the time.
Motorhome internet via Satellite
If you require a strong and stable internet connection and are likely to be in areas where mobile data won’t reach the levels you require, satellite connectivity is a possibility. Now it isn’t cheap, can require a comprehensive installation and isn’t something you should go ahead with if you just plan a little browsing, but it delivers reliable and fast internet where other types of connection can’t.
Motorhome internet via WiFi
Of course, if your phone signal isn’t strong enough, you don’t have a dongle, and you haven’t explored satellite connectivity, you could look for WiFi.
If you are staying at a campsite, a WiFi signal may be available for you to use. In all likelihood, it will be slow as many people will try and make use of it. To get optimal signal, you might need to install a WiFi booster in your motorhome.
What is the best motorhome internet option for me?
You’ll need to weigh up how often you’ll be online and what you are online for before deciding which option is best.
You’ll also need to factor in the budget. If, for example, you make frequent trips in your motorhome, paying more for a better setup initially may save you money compared to buying data plans for each time you go away.
Light and occasional internet use
If you just want to browse emails and have a quick check of social media, using your phone as a hotspot might be the best option.
Regular internet use
The MiFi setup may prove useful if you plan to be on the internet often or require a better connection.
Constant internet use
If you are living in your motorhome or are on a long road trip, routers with external antennas or a satellite connection may be the best option to investigate.
Do motorhomes come with built-in internet?
In most cases, they don’t. You’ll have to provide a form of internet connection via any of the methods mentioned above. That being said, some motorhomes for sale may have a built-in router that you simply need to acquire a SIM card for.
Could I improve the internet signal in my motorhome?
There are ways you can improve the internet connection in your motorhome. External antennas allow you to enhance the signal, but occasionally, they don’t add much benefit. Especially if you are in an extremely remote area. As a result, you should look for a high-gain antenna to deliver an extra boost.
You should also look at the router you use. A router that can accept SIM cards and provide a switch to other networks should signal fail is beneficial.
What is the cheapest way to get internet in my motorhome?
The cheapest way is also perhaps the most unreliable. Free Wi-Fi from the campsite or local services such as shops, cafes and libraries can all keep you connected, but open networks like these aren’t always secure. Furthermore, with a host of people clamouring to get online, you could find your service constantly interrupted.
The next cheapest option is to use your own smartphone. Using it as a source of internet for your motorhome won’t cost you anything extra, but you might find inconsistencies with the signal as you travel around.
Internet in your motorhome offers extra benefits and allows you to take your work on the road when you otherwise may not be able to. Why not speak to our team about motorhome finance for new and used models so you can enjoy a new lease of life and stay connected as you explore both home and abroad. Pay as you go finance – Get a free finance quote now!