Going on a road trip can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. Hitting the open road and exploring new places can be exhilarating.
However, staying connected to the internet during your journey is important not only for staying in touch with family and friends but also for navigation purposes. In this article, we’ll discuss some ways to get WiFi on a road trip.
1. Mobile Hotspot
If you have a smartphone with a data plan, you can use it as a mobile hotspot to get WiFi on your road trip. A mobile hotspot allows you to share your phone’s 3G, 4G, or 5G network with other devices such as laptops, tablets, and other phones.
To use your phone as a hotspot, go to the settings menu and look for the hotspot or tethering option. Turn it on and connect to it using your other devices.
Note: Using your phone as a mobile hotspot may consume a lot of data quickly, so make sure you have enough data on your plan.
2. Portable WiFi Hotspot Device
A portable WiFi hotspot device is another option for getting WiFi on a road trip. This device works similarly to using your phone as a mobile hotspot but offers better coverage and speed.
You can buy or rent a portable WiFi hotspot device from various providers such as Skyroam and Tep Wireless before going on your road trip.
3. Public Wi-Fi Hotspots
Public Wi-Fi hotspots are available at various locations such as libraries, cafes, restaurants, and hotels along your route. You can check online for public Wi-Fi hotspots available in the areas you plan to visit during your road trip.
Note: Public Wi-Fi hotspots can be unsecured, which means there is a risk of your personal information being compromised. Therefore, it is essential to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) while using public Wi-Fi hotspots.
4. RV Park WiFi
If you’re traveling in an RV, most RV parks provide WiFi to their guests. You can check with the RV park before booking your stay to ensure they offer WiFi connectivity.
Note: RV park WiFi can be slow and unreliable due to the large number of people using it simultaneously.
5. Satellite Internet
If you plan to travel off the beaten path where there are no cell towers or public Wi-Fi hotspots available, satellite internet is an excellent option for getting WiFi on a road trip.
You can get satellite internet services from providers such as HughesNet and Viasat. However, this option can be expensive and may require additional equipment installation on your vehicle.
Conclusion
Getting WiFi on a road trip is essential for staying connected to the world and ensuring that you don’t get lost during your journey. Whether you choose to use your phone as a mobile hotspot or invest in a portable WiFi hotspot device, always remember to consider the cost and security of each option before making your final decision.