(Jacksonville FL)
Keeping in touch with family and friends, and accessing the internet are both important to me. So, I am transitioning from home based systems to mobile communication options for traveling in the RV.
MiFi hotspot, Cell phone, Booster
For voice and texting I’ve chosen to get a pre-paid cell phone; the LG235C which is a pretty basic unit. I mostly communicate by email, but for more personal contact and for emergencies the phone will work well. I should also be able to connect via video chat using FaceTime or Skype.
The internet will be accessed through a data plan with Millenicom. They buy excess bandwidth from the major carriers and resell it at great prices. I chose their Hotspot plan which is 20GB of data at 4G speeds which auto switches to 3G when needed. It uses the Novatel 4620LE MiFi that connects to the cell tower and then broadcasts a WiFi signal which can be used by multiple devices, like my laptop and iPod touch.
Both the phone and the MiFi hotspot are no contract, and can be suspended if needed. So, monthly costs can be easily controlled.
Since I will often be in rural areas, where cell service is not always the greatest, I’ll also use a booster amp and antenna to help pull in a better signal. A Wilson Sleek 4G-V will serve this function. It comes as a cradle that will hold either the hotspot or the phone, and works off of DC power which is ideal for the RV.
I’ve been using these at home, and when out-and-about, and they are performing their tasks admirably. The land line phone and DSL will soon be gone; replaced by these mobile communication devices for my plein air journey.
Camp: Home in the sticks-n-bricks
Scene: Residential neighborhood
Sounds like you have all the bases covered!!! Now get out there and find an RV!!!!!!
Thanks for commenting Dick. I’m searching everyday for the right RV. Believe me, I’ll pull the trigger when I find it. Be careful and don’t get a sunburn down there in your new paradise.