Staying Connected: How to Get Wi-Fi While Camping

Camping is all about unplugging and enjoying the great outdoors, but sometimes, staying connected is essential. Whether you’re working remotely, keeping in touch with family, or streaming your favorite shows, reliable internet access can make your RV adventures even better. This past year, we added Starlink satellite internet to our RV, allowing us to work remotely from anywhere. In this post, I’ll share how we use Starlink, along with alternative ways to get Wi-Fi while camping.

I have a simple table that I use for my set up now, but I am going to add a pole that mounts to my RV ladder next to make this better and less obtrusive!

The Starlink app makes it easy to manager your account as well as align your device for the best connection.

Starlink for RVers: High-Speed Internet Anywhere

Starlink has been a game-changer for us on the road. Unlike traditional campground Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots, Starlink provides high-speed internet almost anywhere as long as you have an unobstructed view of the sky. Here’s what you need to know:

Flexible Plans: Starlink offers a 50GB plan and an unlimited plan, so you can choose what fits your needs.
Easy Setup: The dish works best when pointed due north and should be placed in a clear area to avoid obstructions.
Great for Streaming and Work: Whether you're streaming Netflix, joining Zoom meetings, or uploading content, Starlink delivers high-quality internet with low latency.
Turn It On and Off: You can pause and resume your service based on your travel schedule, which helps manage costs effectively.

Alternative Ways to Get Wi-Fi While Camping

While Starlink is fantastic, it’s not the only option. Here are some other ways to stay connected on the road:

1. Campground Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Boosters

Many campgrounds offer complimentary or paid Wi-Fi, but the quality varies. If you're relying on campground internet, consider investing in a Wi-Fi booster to improve the signal strength.

Wi-Fi boosters amplify weak campground signals, making them more reliable for browsing and streaming.
Popular Wi-Fi boosters for RVers: Check out products like the Winegard Connect 2.0 or Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 3.
Pro Tip: Campground Wi-Fi is often stronger early in the morning or late at night when fewer people are online.

Anyone could quickly set up a mobile hot spot or phone to tether. This is great from quick needs on the go that don't require a ton of speed.

2. Mobile Hotspots and Phone Tethering

If you have a strong cell signal, using a mobile hotspot or tethering off your phone is a great way to stay online.

Cellular Hotspots: Devices like the Verizon Jetpack, T-Mobile Inseego 5G, or AT&T Nighthawk provide a dedicated internet connection using your mobile plan.
Phone Tethering: Most smartphones allow you to turn on a hotspot, sharing your phone’s data plan with other devices.
Best Carriers for RV Internet: Verizon and AT&T tend to have the best rural coverage, while T-Mobile offers affordable unlimited data plans.
Pro Tip: Use coverage maps (like Campendium’s Cell Signal Reviews) to find the best carrier for your destinations.

Going to a public location to catch up on emails is another solution in a pinch. Plus, this is a great back up plan when you are traveling between locations.

3. Public Wi-Fi and Coffee Shops

When all else fails, stopping at a coffee shop, library, or visitor center can be a great way to access high-speed internet.

Best for Quick Tasks: Great for downloading large files, checking emails, or making calls when campground Wi-Fi is weak.
Use a VPN: Public Wi-Fi networks are not always secure. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) helps protect your data.
Find Hotspots with Apps: Apps like WiFi Map can help locate free Wi-Fi near your location.

Final Thoughts

Staying connected while camping is easier than ever, thanks to options like Starlink satellite internet, Wi-Fi boosters, mobile hotspots, and campground Wi-Fi. Whether you need reliable internet for remote work, entertainment, or just staying in touch, there’s a solution that fits your needs and budget.

By planning ahead and choosing the right Wi-Fi setup, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—exploring nature while staying connected. Have a favorite way to get Wi-Fi while camping? Let me know in the comments!