Our Setup
We run a Pepwave MAX Transit Duo cellular router. Its not cheap — about $900 — but its the backbone of our system. It takes two SIM cards so we run both Verizon and T-Mobile simultaneously. The router automatically uses whichever signal is stronger.
On the roof we have two external MIMO antennas. One for each carrier. These boosted our signal significantly. In areas where our phones show 1 bar, the antennas pull in 3-4 bars and maintain a usable connection.
We also carry a Starlink dish as backup. Added it last year and its been great in rural areas where cellular is weak. The downside is the dish needs a clear view of the sky so heavily wooded campgrounds can be problematic.
Monthly Costs
Verizon unlimited data plan: $80/month
T-Mobile unlimited data plan: $50/month
Starlink RV plan: $150/month
Total: $280/month
Not cheap. But its a business expense for us and way less than what we'd pay for an office and apartment in Seattle.
Does It Actually Work?
About 90% of the time, yes. Tom can do video calls and push code. I can run queries on large datasets. Streaming Netflix in the evening is no problem.
The other 10% is truly remote locations where even the antennas cant find signal and Starlink is blocked by trees. Those days I work offline and sync when we move to a better spot. Its not perfect but its workable.
If you're considering working from an RV full time — yes its possible. Just dont rely on campground WiFi. Ever.
Comments (11)
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After years on the road I can confirm — this is solid advice.
Really useful info. The details make all the difference.
Thanks for the kind words! Means a lot.
Finally someone says it. Been thinking this for months!
Great point — I should have included that!
Never thought about it this way before. Good stuff.
After years on the road I can confirm — this is solid advice.
Never thought about it this way before. Good stuff.
Coming from military housing, RV living feels like an upgrade honestly.
The part about safety is SO important. I wish more people took it seriously.
The grandkids love visiting us at whatever campground were at. These tips help!