A Guide: Getting a Good Internet Connection on Your Travels

There’s no getting round the fact that the internet has completely changed the world. We can shop faster, see instantly what the weather is going to be a week tomorrow, catch up with the news as it happens, keep in touch with friends on the other side of the world, check work emails and stream our favourite TV shows. Most people do all this with the utmost convenience – a mobile phone, tablet or laptop. In the modern world the ‘coverage’ of signal required to connect to the internet is very good.

However, when you’re on a motorhome trip, things can be slightly different. Venturing into, say, the Scottish Highlands, remote parts of England or embarking on a European road trip, staying connected can be a challenge. Whether it’s your own new motorhome, or one you are hiring from us, advances in technology mean that motorhome travellers now have more options than ever to stay online. In this edition of our blog, we’ll explore the best ways to get a strong and reliable connection during your travels.

Internet Connections in Motorhomes

When it comes to getting a functioning internet connection in a motorhome, there are different approaches available, and each of them has its pros and cons. Understanding how to access the internet in your vehicle depends on the type of connection.

• Mobile data and routers: The most used method for internet access in a motorhome is through using the ‘mobile data’ on your phone. You use a mobile hotspot or a 4G/5G router to connect devices to the internet. This is done by inserting a SIM card into the device, which then connects to mobile data networks. In the UK, the major providers offer mobile data services, thought their coverage can vary significantly depending on where you are. Large cities and towns are generally very well served, with rural and more remote areas perhaps having low coverage. It’s worth doing your research and going with a service provider that has exceptional national coverage.

For greater reliability, you can invest in a 4G/5G router which has been specifically designed for motorhomes. These devices are compact and can connect to mobile data networks to provide a Wi-Fi connection. Many modern routers come with features like signal boosters to improve reception in weak coverage areas.

• Satellite internet: If you’re planning to travel through areas that have low mobile coverage, satellite internet can be a reliable option. Satellite-based systems provide global coverage, even in remote areas.

While satellite internet can be expensive to install and maintain, there is a consistent connection, regardless of your location, as the signal bounces from satellites in space rather than phone masts. Satellite dishes can be mounted on your motorhome’s roof, and you can easily track the optimum spots for signal strength by using an app. However, it’s worth noting that satellite internet systems typically require ‘a clear line of sight’ to the sky, and therefore can sometimes be obstructed by trees or tall buildings.

• Wi-Fi boosters: A Wi-Fi booster is a device to help extend the range of available networks, improving your internet speed and reliability. They capture weak signals and amplify them, so connecting to public Wi-Fi is easier and more reliable.

Wi-Fi boosters are a great way to strengthen your signal and stay online while you’re in areas with decent infrastructure (eg. campsites or motorhome parks). The workability of this internet option depends on the availability of Wi-Fi networks in the area. In those Highlands, where public Wi-Fi is scarce, a booster may not always be the best solution for you.

• Built-in internet: These days motorhomes often come equipped with built-in internet and connectivity systems, especially vehicles from high-end brands and manufacturers. They may feature integrated 4G/5G routers, Wi-Fi boosters or even satellite dishes as standard (or available as optional upgrades). This is quite a significant development in the industry, designed in recognition of the public’s need for a hassle-free internet set-up during travels.

Staying Connected in Remote Areas

As advanced as the modern world is, it’s still important to recognise and accept that some areas will simply have low, very poor or zero coverage. The Highlands, for instance, are infamous for having ‘dead zones’ – places where mobile signals just don’t reach, and even satellite has been impacted by mountainous terrain or dense forest.

It’s best to plan. Carrying an assortment of internet access tools (mobile hotspots, satellite systems and Wi-Fi boosters) can help to mitigate any connectivity issues you encounter. However, you should always make sure you’ve got ‘real world’ alternatives for navigation, entertainment and work. Things like paper or downloaded maps and pre-saved files.

If you plan to spend a significant amount of time in remote areas, a motorhome with a built-in satellite system could be the most worthwhile investment to make, when you’re thinking about buying (or hiring) a motorhome.

Staying connected while you’re travelling in a motorhome has never actually been easier, thanks to all the technological advancements we’ve mentioned here (mobile technology, satellite internet, hotspots and Wi-Fi boosters).

If you are looking to hire a motorhome in Scotland, or even buy one, enquire with us at Dicksons of Perth. We’re experts in getting you on your way to the next big on the road adventure, and we can discuss your internet connectivity needs to make sure you get what you need. From internet options to advice on the ideal motorhome, we’re here to help make your travel experience as fine as possible!