Glamping is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but that doesn’t mean you have to be completely disconnected. Whether you need to check in with work, keep up with social media, or simply stream your favorite shows under the stars, having access to the internet while glamping is increasingly becoming a necessity for many outdoor enthusiasts. But how exactly can you stay connected when you’re far from the nearest Wi-Fi hotspot? Here’s everything you need to know about getting internet while glamping, from mobile hotspots to satellite connections.
Mobile Hotspots: Your On-the-Go Wi-Fi Solution
A mobile hotspot is one of the most popular ways to get internet access while glamping. It works by using your smartphone’s cellular connection to create a Wi-Fi network that other devices, like laptops and tablets, can connect to. This option is convenient and relatively easy to set up, especially if you’re camping in areas with good cell coverage.
Using Your Smartphone as a Hotspot
Most smartphones today have a built-in hotspot feature. To use it, simply enable the hotspot in your phone’s settings, and you’ll have instant internet access for your other devices. Keep in mind that using your phone as a hotspot can quickly drain your battery and use up your data allowance, so it’s important to monitor your usage.
Dedicated Mobile Hotspot Devices
If you plan to be online frequently while glamping, you might want to invest in a dedicated mobile hotspot device. These devices offer more robust features than a smartphone, including better battery life, stronger Wi-Fi signals, and the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously. They’re also easier to manage in terms of data usage and can often support faster internet speeds.
Network Coverage Considerations
Before relying on a mobile hotspot, check the coverage map of your cellular provider to ensure you’ll have service in your camping area. In remote locations, cell service can be spotty or nonexistent, so having a backup plan is essential.
Satellite Internet: Reliable Connectivity in Remote Areas
For glampers venturing into truly remote areas where cellular service is unavailable, satellite internet is the best option. While traditionally more expensive and slower than cellular options, satellite technology has improved significantly, making it a viable solution for getting online in the wilderness.
How Satellite Internet Works
Satellite internet uses a dish to connect to satellites orbiting the Earth. This connection is then relayed to your devices via a modem, providing you with internet access wherever you are, as long as you have a clear view of the sky. This makes satellite internet ideal for campers in remote areas where other options aren’t available.
Top Satellite Internet Providers:
- Starlink: Known for its high speeds and low latency, Starlink is a popular choice for those who demand fast internet. However, it can be more expensive than other options.
- HughesNet: Offers more affordable plans and wider coverage, but speeds are generally slower than Starlink.
- Viasat: Provides unlimited data plans and competitive speeds, making it a good option for heavy internet users.
Portable Satellite Internet Devices
There are now portable satellite internet devices designed specifically for camping and outdoor use. These compact units are easy to set up and don’t require permanent installation, making them perfect for temporary setups at a campsite. Some popular options include Starlink’s RV service, which provides high-speed internet even in remote locations, and other portable satellite modems that cater to campers and travelers.
Popular Portable Satellite Internet Devices
Starlink RV by SpaceX
One of the most talked-about options in the portable satellite internet market is Starlink RV by SpaceX. Designed specifically for mobile use, Starlink RV offers high-speed internet with low latency, making it suitable for streaming, online gaming, and other data-intensive activities.
Starlink RV comes with a compact satellite dish that can be set up easily at your campsite. The dish automatically aligns itself with the satellites in orbit, ensuring you get the best possible connection without having to manually adjust anything. With a coverage area that includes most of the continental U.S., parts of Canada, and other regions, Starlink RV is a top choice for travelers and campers who want reliable internet on the go.
Inmarsat IsatHub
Inmarsat is a well-known name in the satellite communication industry, and their IsatHub service provides a portable internet solution with a global reach. The IsatHub system includes a portable satellite terminal that can be set up almost anywhere to provide a Wi-Fi network for your devices.
IsatHub is designed for more than just internet browsing; it also supports voice calls, SMS messaging, and other communication services. This makes it an excellent choice for adventurers who need comprehensive communication tools in remote areas, such as those undertaking expeditions, scientific research, or long-distance sailing.
Iridium GO!
Iridium GO! is another portable satellite device designed for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. While it offers internet connectivity, its primary strength lies in its global communication capabilities. Iridium GO! allows you to make voice calls, send text messages, and access basic internet services from virtually anywhere on Earth.
The device itself is small, rugged, and built to withstand harsh environments. It connects to the Iridium satellite network, which is known for its extensive coverage, including the polar regions. Although Iridium GO! doesn’t offer the high-speed internet of some other options, it excels in providing reliable communication in areas where no other options are available.
Thuraya SatSleeve
The Thuraya SatSleeve is a unique portable satellite internet solution that turns your smartphone into a satellite phone. By attaching your smartphone to the SatSleeve, you gain access to Thuraya’s satellite network, enabling you to make calls, send texts, and browse the web from remote locations.
The SatSleeve is lightweight and easy to use, making it a great option for hikers, backpackers, and campers who want to stay connected without carrying extra devices. While the internet speeds are not as high as some other satellite solutions, the convenience of using your existing smartphone makes the Thuraya SatSleeve an attractive option for many outdoor enthusiasts.
Considerations for Satellite Internet
While satellite internet offers coverage in remote locations, it does have some drawbacks. Latency can be higher than with cellular connections, and service can be affected by weather conditions like heavy rain or snow. Additionally, satellite plans often come with data caps or usage restrictions, so it’s important to choose a plan that fits your needs.
Public Wi-Fi: Convenient but Limited
In some glamping areas, you might be able to find public Wi-Fi networks available at campgrounds, RV parks, or nearby visitor centers. These networks offer a convenient way to get online without using your data, but they come with limitations.
Availability and Speed
Public Wi-Fi networks are typically available in more developed campgrounds or areas close to towns and cities. The downside is that these networks can be slow, especially during peak times when many campers are trying to connect at once. They’re also less secure, so be cautious when accessing sensitive information over public Wi-Fi.
Using Wi-Fi Extenders
If you’re camping near a public Wi-Fi source but find the signal weak, a Wi-Fi extender can help boost the signal to reach your campsite. These devices are portable and easy to set up, allowing you to take advantage of available Wi-Fi networks from a greater distance.
Offline Options: Staying Connected Without Internet
If getting internet access is not feasible or you prefer to minimize your online time while camping, there are ways to stay connected and entertained without a live internet connection.
Downloading Content Before You Go
Before heading out, download maps, music, movies, and any other content you might need during your trip. Many streaming services like Netflix and Spotify allow you to download content for offline viewing or listening, ensuring you have entertainment even without internet access.
Apps for Offline Use
There are several apps designed to work offline, providing everything from GPS navigation to star maps. These apps can be lifesavers in remote areas, helping you navigate, plan hikes, or learn about your surroundings without needing an internet connection.
Conclusion
Staying connected while camping is more achievable than ever, thanks to advancements in mobile hotspots, satellite internet, and portable power solutions. Whether you’re just checking in with loved ones or streaming your favorite shows under the stars, there’s a solution to fit your needs and camping style. By choosing the right internet option and ensuring you have reliable power, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—immersing yourself in nature while still having access to the online world when you need it.
