Ready to start that recreational vehicle (RV) and go adventure hunting across the country but have you thought of an Internet for your RV?
If not, rest assured that you have come to the right place. We have listed the best options for Internet for RVs that will guarantee new-age digital connectivity and align with your ‘freedom goals’ for 2024.
So, put the pedal to the metal as we speed through a range of internet services, plans, and products to find the perfect combo of speed, reliability, coverage, and affordability for your RV’s broadband needs.
Best Internet Options for RV Living
Whether you are parked in an RV park or on the move, road-tripping around the country, you will need a fast and reliable internet connection to navigate your way, stay connected to friends and family, make online payments, or simply for entertainment.
If RV living is more than just an extended vacation for you, then it is time to consider these options for internet access in your RV.
Satellite Internet for RV
Satellite Internet is the best solution for countrywide broadband coverage. Even in areas identified as connectivity deserts, you can expect the satellite internet to get you online in no time.
Currently, there are three satellite internet providers for RVs in the USA. However, their service activation requirements and equipment only make one of them suitable for mobility or internet connectivity on the go.
Viasat
Viasat used to be the second-best satellite internet provider in the country, offering instant and affordable broadband access to underserved communities. Before the dominance of Starlink, Viasat had a strong base of satellite internet customers, reaching up to 590,000 residential subscribers.
But now, that number has dropped, and Viasat is trying to stay relevant with its no-contract, unlimited, all-included satellite internet plan.
As of March 2024, Viasat has switched to a single unlimited plan called the Viasat Unleashed. You can purchase the monthly plan for $99.99 and enjoy download speeds of up to 150 Mbps.
| Viasat Satellite Internet Plans | |
| Features | Details |
| Monthly Price | $99.99/mo. |
| Download Speed Range | 25 to 150 Mbps |
| No. of Plans | 1 |
| Availability | Nationwide |
| Data Cap | Unlimited data |
| Annual Contract | Not required |
| Professional Installation | FREE |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Included |
| Access to 24/7 Customer Care | Yes |
| Customer Rating | 3.25 out of 5 stars |
| Best For | Remote work, HD video streaming, and casual gaming. |
**Priority data is limited to 850 GB per month. You may experience speed reductions during peak hours after exceeding this data cap.
It must be noted that Viasat’s satellite internet is only for RVers who intend on parking their vehicle in a dedicated spot for a year or longer.
You will need a permanent home address to enroll in the service, and the heavy-duty equipment is not suitable for mobility. Therefore, Viasat is not the best satellite internet for RVs that are on the move.
Hughesnet
Hughesnet invented satellite internet back in 1996. Since then, it has been a trusted choice for internet connectivity in the remotest areas of the nation. The provider uses a fleet of 3 highest capacity Ka-band broadband satellites, located 22,000 miles away, to beam internet signals back to the Earth.
Hughesnet satellite internet offerings for RVs include 3 plans, starting at $49.99 per month, offering download speeds of up to 100 Mbps and up to 200 GB of high-speed data. Maximum bandwidths and priority data limits are sufficient to support high-definition (HD) streaming, remote learning and work, and casual online gaming.
For a limited time, Provider is offering a $100 Prepaid Mastercard on new subscriptions.
| Hughesnet Satellite Internet Plans | |||
| Plan | Price | Speed | Priority Data |
| Select | $49.99/mo. for 12 months | Up to 50 Mbps | 100 GB |
| Elite | $64.99/mo. for 12 months | Up to 100 Mbps | 200 GB |
| Fusion | $79.99/mo. for 12 months | Up to 100 Mbps | 200 GB |
**A service term agreement may be required.
***Standard data allowance is unlimited.
Unfortunately, like Viasat, Hughesnet’s service terms and equipment are unsuitable for moving recreational vehicles.
Starlink
It is undoubtedly the best satellite internet for RVs! Starlink is the only satellite internet provider with a dedicated service plan for RVers and campers. Its Mobile package starts at $150 per month, offers download speeds of up to 50 Mbps with 1 terabyte (TB) of data allowance, and delivers low latency of less than 90 milliseconds (ms).
However, customers are required to pay $599 upfront for the cutting-edge equipment. Its sleek design and weather-resilient technology offer the best value for your money, allowing you to explore, work, and play at remote locations.
| Starlink Internet Plans | ||||
| Features | Standard | Priority | Mobile | Mobile Priority |
| No. of Plans | 1 | 4 | 2 | 3 |
| Starting Price | $120/mo. | $140/mo. | $150/mo. | $250/mo. |
| Download Speed | Up to 100 Mbps | Up to 220 Mbps | Up to 50 Mbps | Up to 220 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | Up to 10 Mbps | Up to 25 Mbps | Up to 10 Mbps | Up to 25 Mbps |
| Latency | 25 – 60 ms | 25 – 60 ms | <90 ms | <90 ms |
| Data Caps | 1 TB | 40 GB, 1, 2, & 6 TB | 1 TB | 50 GB, 1 & 5 TB |
| Hardware Fee | $599 | $2,500 | $599 | $2,500 |
| Best For | Homes | Business | RVs, Campers | Maritime |
Mobile Internet for RV
If you love the idea of disconnecting while traveling and sightseeing around the country, then you don’t need much to get by. For basic internet access in an RV, you can rely on your cellular 5G data. Nation’s Big Three mobile network operators – AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile offer non-stop, countrywide, 5G wireless connectivity on their reasonably priced Unlimited Data plans. With up to 60 GB of premium hotspot data allowance per line, you and your family can capture and share all the memories on social media in real-time for the world to see.
Let’s look at some of the best unlimited mobile internet plans for RVs.
AT&T
AT&T offers 3 Unlimited internet plans for RV dwellers. If you are a family of four, you can add 4 AT&T Unlimited lines to a primary account and enjoy up to 60 GB of hotspot data for rates as low as $35.99 per line, per month.
AT&T’s nationwide 5G coverage includes 285 million people, so network reception should not be a problem unless you are in spots like the national forests of Idaho, the national parks of California, and the snow-covered plains of Alaska.
| AT&T Unlimited Internet Plans for RVs | |||
| Features | Unlimited Starter (SL) | Unlimited Extra (EL) | Unlimited Premium (PL) |
| Price per Line | $65.99/mo. | $75.99/mo. | $85.99/mo. |
| Price for 4 Lines | $35.99/mo./line | $40.99/mo./line | $50.99/mo./line |
| 5G Data | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Talk and Text | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Hotspot Data | 5 GB/line | 30 GB/line | 60 GB/line |
| Streaming Quality | SD | SD | 4K UHD |
| Perks | AT&T ActiveArmorSM | AT&T ActiveArmorSM | AT&T ActiveArmorSM |
**A 5G mobile device is needed to experience superior network performance.
***Prices shown include a $10 AutoPay and paperless bill discount.
****A service activation fee of up to $50 may apply.
Verizon
Verizon also offers 3 Unlimited Internet plans for RVs, starting at $30 per month, per line for 4 lines. Every user gets 60 GB of hotspot allowance, sufficient for multi-device connectivity while you are in motion. You can stream videos in full HD, work or study on the go, and share captivating images of your trip on social media.
Verizon’s 5G network coverage includes most parts of the country except for some spots in Maine, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, California, Idaho, and Montana.
| Verizon Unlimited Internet Plans for RVs | |||
| Features | Unlimited Welcome | Unlimited Plus | Unlimited Ultimate |
| Price per Line | $65.00/mo. | $80.00/mo. | $90.00/mo. |
| Price for 4 Lines | $30.00/mo./line | $45.00/mo./line | $55.00/mo./line |
| 5G Data | Unlimited 5G | Unlimited 5G Ultra Wideband | Unlimited 5G Ultra Wideband |
| Talk and Text | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Mobile Hotspot | – | 30 GB | 60 GB |
| International | Mexico & Canada | Mexico & Canada | 210+ countries |
| Streaming Quality | 480p HD | 720p HD | 1080p HD |
| Perks | – | Up to 50% off on 1 device plan | Up to 50% off on 2 device plans |
T-Mobile
T-Mobile USA claims to have the “nation’s largest and fastest 5G network”, covering over “330 million people”, across “2 million square miles”. It has a range of unlimited talk, text, and data plans for RV users.
For as low as $25 per month, per line (when you add 4 lines to an account), you can receive up to 50 GB of hotspot data and enjoy high-speed internet connectivity while traveling. All packages include unlimited calling and texting to any network within the country and a free call-blocking application – Scam Shield.
| T-Mobile Unlimited Internet Plans for RVs | |||
| Features | Essential Saver | Go5G Plus | Go5G Next |
| Price per Line | $50.00/mo. | $100.00/mo. | $90.00/mo. |
| Price for 4 Lines | $100.00/mo. | $185.00/mo. | $225.00/mo. |
| 5G Data | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Talk and Text | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Mobile Hotspot | Unlimited 3G | 50 GB | 50 GB |
| International | Canada & Mexico | Canada & Mexico | Canada & Mexico |
| Streaming Quality | DVD (480p) | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Perks | Scam Shield™ Premium | Scam Shield™ Premium | Scam Shield™ Premium |
**Taxes and fees are included in the monthly fee.
*** A 5G capable device is required.
****Unlimited calls/ texts and 15 GB of high-speed data in Canada and Mexico.
5G Home Internet
With the rise of 5G home internet plans, you can roam in your mobile home without worrying about digital connectivity. 5G home internet for RVs is another great solution for uninterrupted broadband access at affordable monthly rates.
T-Mobile offers wireless 5G home internet service, which RVers can use as they camp in the forests, at lakesides, and beyond. AT&T and Verizon, too, offer 5G home internet plans, but their service is designed for fixed residences instead of motor homes. Some customers have also experienced geo-fencing while traveling with T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet router.
So, 5G Home Internet may not be the best solution for high-speed connectivity if you are too far from your service address.
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet for RV | |
| Type of Connection | 5G wireless technology |
| Standalone Price | $60.00/mo. (with AutoPay) |
| Bundled Price | As low as $40.00/mo. (with AutoPay) |
| Download Speed | Up to 245 Mbps |
| Upload Speed | Up to 31 Mbps |
| Contracts | Not required |
| Data Caps | Unlimited data |
| Coverage | 49 states (including Puerto Rico) |
| Installation Fee | FREE |
| Equipment Fee | Included |
| Perks | T-Mobile Tuesdays, 15-day free trial, a $200 rebate |
| Best For | HD streaming, large file sharing, and online gaming |
Public Wi-Fi
The only free internet option for an RV is a public Wi-Fi network when you are in an RV park or campsite. Most RV parks offer free access to public Wi-Fi networks within the vicinity. Once parked, you can connect to these networks using the provided username and password and enjoy unlimited internet access.
However, these public Wi-Fis can be frustratingly slow, and you may experience network outages during inclement weather.
Another option is to rely on public Wi-Fi outside the camping grounds and RV parks as you travel across the country. Many restaurants, coffee shops, malls, and libraries offer free internet for RV if you stop by for a meal, drink, or shopping.
Despite the slow speeds and security risks, if you would like to rely on public Wi-Fi networks for light internet usage, here is how you can find free Wi-Fi hotspots.
ISP Wi-Fi Hotspot
Internet service providers (ISPs) like Xfinity, Spectrum, and AT&T have installed thousands of out-of-home Wi-Fi hotspots across their coverage areas. For example, Spectrum Internet customers can access over 530,000 Wi-Fi hotspots for free as they go RVing across the country.
They can locate their nearest Spectrum out-of-home Wi-Fi access point, look for the network ‘Spectrum Free Trial’, and connect using their Spectrum ID and password. You can use this coverage map to locate a Spectrum Wi-Fi Hotspot point for secure and reliable internet for RV.
Nomad Internet
Nomad Internet is a wireless internet provider that offers specialized broadband internet service for RVs. It uses 4G LTE and 5G cellular networks to send high-speed internet data to its customers’ modems.
The service includes unlimited data, nationwide coverage, free self-installation, and a 7-day money-back guarantee.
| Nomad Internet Plans for RVs | ||
| Features | Most Popular | Best Value |
| Price | $99.95/mo. | $149.95/mo. |
| Download Speed | 100 Mbps | 200 Mbps |
| Contract | No | No |
| Credit Check | No | No |
| Data Cap | Unlimited data | Unlimited data |
| Video Streaming Quality | HD (1080p) | UHD 4K |
| Gaming Performance | Good | Excellent |
With its faster-than-Starlink speeds, low prices, free equipment, and nationwide coverage, Nomad Internet can be the best-unlimited internet option for RVs.
Bearifi BearExtender/ Wi-Fi Extender Antenna
The Bearifi BearExtender can boost public Wi-Fi signals for the internet for RVs. The long-range outdoor Wi-Fi booster uses a combination of high-power Wi-Fi amplifiers and high gain 10 dBi directional antennas to deliver speeds of up to 150 Mbps.
You can get it for $59.97, but on the downside, the extender is only compatible with Microsoft Windows computers and laptops. Moreover, your device directly needs to be connected to its built-in 16-foot long USB cable for superfast internet access.
How to Choose the Best Internet for RV Living?
We went ahead and mentioned several options for internet in an RV, but from satellite internet service to free public Wi-Fi networks, how can you gauge which internet option is best for RV living?
The following factors will help you decide on the best RV internet option and ensure that you get the perfect combination of speed, reliability, coverage, and affordability as you move from one spot to the next, exploring the wonders of this world.
Assess Your Speed Requirements
First and foremost, you must reflect upon your speed requirements. If you are a solo traveler who uses the internet for basic online activities, then slow-speed internet for RV will suffice. You may be able to accomplish all with speeds between 25 Mbps and 50 Mbps. In this case, a public Wi-Fi or a satellite internet plan for RV (such as Starlink’s Mobile plan) will be a good option.
However, if your on-the-road adventure compels you to use ultrafast internet with speeds of up to 500 Mbps and faster, then you should consider 5G mobile internet for RV. 5G technology is the latest generation of wireless internet and can deliver speeds of up to 10 Gbps (10,000 Mbps) in ideal situations.
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet and Nomad Internet are good options for off-grid wireless connectivity, but in this case, the download speeds will be 200 Mbps or less.
Finalize Your Budget
You must be mindful of your budget and conduct a cost-per-unit evaluation to check which RV internet option offers the best bang for your buck. For example, if you don’t want to spend a penny on internet connectivity while away from home, then public Wi-Fi in RV parks and across is your best bet.
But if you don’t mind forking $800 at once (cost of equipment, shipping charges, service fee, and taxes), Starlink is a high-tech solution for internet for RVs.
For people on a modest budget, ISP Wi-Fi hotspots, Nomad Internet, Wi-Fi extenders like Bearifi BearExtender, and 5G mobile internet for RVs are suitable choices.
Estimate Your Data Usage
If you need unlimited internet for RV to support your data-intensive online activities, then premium cellphone plans like Verizon Unlimited Ultimate and T-Mobile Go5G Next are ideal. For an average monthly fee of $95, these mobile phone plans offer unlimited priority data and up to 60 GB of hotspot allowance.
These unlimited options also work best if you want an RV internet for streaming, as the network can support video streaming qualities up to ultra-high-definition (UHD) 4K without capping your data usage.
Pinpoint Your Destinations
Knowing exactly where you will go can be the first step to ensuring high-speed internet access for RVs. For example, if you know that for most of your trip, you will be stationed in a campground and rely on public Wi-Fi for your online needs, then even a 4G fixed mobile data plan should be enough to keep you connected on the road.
However, if you plan on exploring some lost treasure of the world and want to go offroading in one of the remotest parts of the country, neither a public Wi-Fi nor a 5G network will reach you. In such a situation, a satellite internet plan for RVs will be your saving grace.
Plan the Duration of Your Stay
If the RV life is just a short-lived YOLO adventure for you, then investing in a Starlink satellite internet service, 5G home internet plan, Wi-Fi extenders, and portable hotspot devices is not worth it. For a few days, you can easily compromise on seamless and ultrafast broadband connectivity because, after all, the idea behind RV living is to get away from the limitations of our daily lives.
However, if you have embraced minimalism, love being on the road, and believe that a motor home will be your permanent home, investing your savings in the internet for RVs should be your priority. With an unlimited internet plan like the one from Nomad Internet or satellite internet for RV, you are all set to go.
Final Thoughts
From extraterrestrial satellite internet service to ordinary and mundane public Wi-Fi, we have highlighted and analyzed the best internet for RVs in 2024. Depending on your preferences in terms of cost, speed, and data usage, you can select any of the options above for instant internet access in your house-on-wheels.
FAQs
