WiFi solutions for van life
Most that enjoy van life feel that internet connection is important, if not vital. There's never the perfect solution as most equipment relies on good cellular signal strength and this can vary considerably, depending on area and surroundings. There are also few options that cover every country and location.
Here we take a look at some options
GlobLinker personal hot spot
These small units sell for around £140.
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15hrs battery life
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130+ countries covered
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No SIM car required
Portable Wi-Fi anywhere you go. Globlinker automatically connects to the strongest local mobile network, so you stay online even where phones and regular hotspots struggle. Works in the UK & 130+ countries, connects multiple devices at the same time, and is perfect for streaming, work, browsing, and video calls.
You purchase data packs for the UK or overseas. For heavy data users, it can be an expensive option. UK data averages £1 per GB and overseas 60p per GB. You get 2Gb per month for free and this stacks if not used. Find out more here.
Starlink for motorhomes and campervans
Without any doubt, one of the most stable and reliable options for WiFi on the move but also one of the most expensive options.
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Stars at £55 per month
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Downside is that uploading uses a lot of data and this can be expensive
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100Gb for £55 per month but reduced if outside the UK
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Unlimited data is £100 per month. *You get 100Gb high speed then it reduces after that
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Mounts available for motorhomes (requires drilling in roof)
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Check which countries do not allow Starlink use
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Buy equipment for under £200
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Find out more here
Avtex internet routers
Having your own router in the van is a great option. You will need an antenna mounted on the roof. Avtex are one of the leaders in these systems.
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Buy systems from around £300
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Dual SIM so locks onto the best signal
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3G/4G/5G where coverage available
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12V/24V operation
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Downside is relies on a good cellular signal so may not work in some areas
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More info here
Our own installation
We have just fitted an Avtex AMR105X router in our motorhome. We chose this as it has a great display screen, dual SIM and covers 5G.
Installing took less than an hour, including drilling the hole in the roof of the van.
Connection was simple and immediate connection to 5G once a SIM was installed.
This model, unlike others we have tried, does automatically update the settings when a new SIM card is installed.