Best Caravan WiFi: These Options Make Travelling A Breeze

Camping is a fun way to escape the daily grind and get back to nature, but these days, we just can’t live without WiFi. Whether you’re connecting to Google Maps to find your way back to the trail or you need it during business hours as a digital nomad, WiFi is essential you shouldn’t need to go without.

Luckily, technology has come a long way over the years, and with our need to stay connected, we have developed ways to do exactly that. Caravanners have tons of options for WiFi systems, ensuring they can stay online while on the road. With these systems, you can post your #VanLife pics to your heart’s content.

Caravanning is one of Australia’s favourite pastimes, with 12.7 million caravan trips taken in Australia between June 2021 and June 2022. Like many Australians, at Elecbrakes, we spend our time on the road, so we know how to make your journey as comfortable as possible. Today, we’ll give you our rundown of the best caravan WiFi systems so you can make an informed decision.

How did we choose the best caravan RV WiFi?

At Elecbrakes, we’re used to reviewing all the latest vehicle accessories, from caravan air conditioners to caravan sinks and even fridge accessories. When it comes to accessing the internet while travelling, there are a few factors we want to consider in the best caravan WiFi unit.

This included the battery life of each portable unit. Will you need an extra battery accessory to support the system, or will the unit drain your energy and prevent you from using your air conditioner?

Secondly, we considered the range and capabilities. Depending on your needs, you might get away with a small WiFi unit that works in caravan parks. Other travellers may need something that works in more remote areas like the deserts of Western Australia, where you can’t rely on mobile data.

To assess these factors, we checked out the stats from the manufacturers. Then, to verify their quality, we pulled data from online third-party reviews on Google, TrustPilot, and independent websites. We also used our expertise and experience to pick the best options.

The 8 best caravan WiFi systems

The best caravan WiFi for your camper trailer will depend on your unique needs. For example, you need to consider your budget, where in the country you will be travelling, the mobile network provider you use, and WiFi connection speed, among other things.

As a result, this list is in no particular order. Instead, we’ve indicated which system is best for which kind of caravan user so you can find the perfect fit and never have to rely on unstable phone data again.

1. RV WIFI 4G Portable Caravan WiFi DishyDock

Source: caravanrvcamping.com.au

Best for: Family caravanning trips
Price: $499

When it comes to caravan internet, RV WiFi is a solid brand that does exactly what it needs to do. The RV WiFi 4G Portable Caravan WiFi is specifically designed for Australian campers, with a robust system featuring four internal and two external directional antennas.

This is perfect for families travelling together, with the opportunity to connect multiple devices. It has a connectivity range of about 50m and a built-in media centre that allows you to wire up your devices via USBs for smoother streaming.

RV WIFI+ comes with a Telstra Sim starter kit. You can use this or purchase another from your choice of data providers. You only pay for the time/data you use, and have nothing to pay when you are at home & between adventures. You’ll also need a 12V power source.

Some caravan WiFi networks have a larger range, but for under $500 with a 1-year warranty, the RV WiFi+ 4G Portable Caravan WiFi unit is a great family option.

2. NCE Travel WiFi Modem Kit V2

Source: nce.com.au

Best for: Finding a signal no matter what
Price: $449

For just under $450, the NCE Travel Wifi Modem Kit V2 is a budget-friendly WiFi solution that allows you to connect to the internet wherever you are.

These days, many caravan WiFi systems are moving away from 3G in favour of 4G, with 5G somewhere on the horizon. However, this system is still 3G compatible. Although a little slower, it’s useful to be able to connect to 3G in case of emergencies. Plus, thanks to the high-gain antenna, you’ll find a decent signal anywhere.

In terms of portable caravan WiFi, the NCE option provides great flexibility. It works with both dongles and SIM cards, whereas many caravan systems only work with the latter. As a result, this is a great option for satellite WiFi.

The primary downside is the very limited range of 40m. However, if you’re only using it in the camper van, this isn’t a huge problem.

3. Sphere Mobile Wi-Fi Router with Internal Antenna, ZT-4G

Source: shoprvparts.com

Best for: All-around caravanning
Price: $469.20

The Sphere Mobile WiFi Router with Internal Antenna is another excellent WiFi system for family caravan holidays. Unlike the NCE Travel WiFi Modem, it doesn’t have 3G capabilities, so the connection may be patchy at times, especially when you’re in motion. However, with four LAN ports, the whole family can stay connected to enjoy the same movies at the same time from their own devices.

That said, with four external antenna arms and a range of 100 metres, this is still a great option for wireless browsing.

The Sphere brand is also well-known for security. The portable WiFi unit is password protected and also has GPS tracking features to locate the vehicle should it go missing.

4. Winegard WiFi Connect 2.0

Source: RV Parts Express

Best for: Incredible range
Price: $899.00

Compared to the other WiFi options so far on this list, you might gawk at the price point for the Winegard WiFi Connect 2.0. However, in our opinion, the range makes it worth it!

This WiFi booster provides 1.5 miles (2.4km) of range, providing the ultimate internet on the road. We have no idea how the mobile signals for this even work, but it’s certainly impressive.

This model is easy to install; you can place it inside your caravan or mount it on the top. With double firewall protection, it’s also one of the safer units you can install, ensuring your internet access is secure.

Despite all the extra bells and whistles, the Winegard WiFi Connect uses the same power systems as other units, not absorbing any extra power. It’s not plug-and-play, though, so expect to spend some time setting it up.

The major downside here is the price, but depending on your requirements, it could be worth it.

5. Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro 5G mmWave WiFi

Source: netgear.com

Best for: Serious caravan trips and Van Life
Price: $1,299

If you spend a significant amount of time in your camper van, then you need a mobile WiFi solution that’s more robust and reliable. That’s where the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro comes in. Although it’s a little more expensive than other WiFi devices, it’s definitely worth it if you’ll be working on the road.

This system is extremely lightweight and portable, and thanks to its lack of external antennas, it’s sleek and easy to store. That said, some users install external antennas down the line if they find they can’t get a signal in remote areas.

What sets the Netgear Nighthawk M6 Pro apart is its 5G capabilities, ensuring the smoothest, quickest streaming.

You may need to invest in additional battery management systems as this system runs on its own power pack. This can add to the already hefty price tag. However, if you’re travelling a lot, we think this system is worth it.

6. TP-Link 4G LTE Advanced Mobile WiFi Internal 4G Modem

Source: TP Link on Amazon

Best for: Family holidays and sharing WiFi
Price: $129.56

Another fantastic budget option is the TP-Link 4G LTE Advanced Mobile WiFi Internal 4G Modem. Often, we need WiFi for caravans to entertain the little ones or to stream music for our friends while cooking for the outback barbecue. This modem is perfect for exactly that, with decent speeds of 150Mbps.

It supports up to 10 devices–so it’s great for group trips–and packs 8 hours of battery life. Ensure you get some battery boxes to keep charging up when needed.

7. InHand Industrial Cellular 4G Router Modem LTE CAT4 Wifi

Source: InHand on eBay

Best for: Working away from home
Price: $228

If you need a WiFi router that keeps you online for business, then InHand Networks have you covered with the IR302 4G LTE Router. Perhaps you’re travelling in Australia as a digital nomad; this router will keep you connected from the Northern Territory to South Australia.

It’s marketed as ideal for industrial and commercial operations, with durable metal casing and a transmission distance of 80m.

It’s also quite powerful, with 4G LTE, WiFi, and VPN technologies integrated into one device. One thing we love is the speed, with excellent ways to stay online and stream. Plus, this device has robust security measures, including firewall protection, SPI DoS attack defence, and more.

8. TP-Link Archer MR500 Wireless 4G AC1200 LTE Router

Source: TP-Link – JB HI-FI

Best for: Steady connections in remote areas
Price: $244

TP-Link has tons of great options for staying connected on the road, and the AC1200 4G LTE router is no exception. This model is ideal for finding high-speed internet in areas where you can’t otherwise access broadband.

It has a long list of capabilities, including:

• LTE-FDD
• LTE-TDD
• DC-HSPA+
• HSPA+
• HSPA
• UMTS
• EDGE
• GPRS
• GSM

With rapid speeds of up to 450Mbps, you can do pretty much anything on this modem, but note that you’re unlikely to get these speeds in more remote areas. Plus, there are three LAN ports for times when the wireless WiFi signal is patchy.

What other caravan WiFi accessories do you need?

The cost of camping can quickly stack up. Alongside your bike racks, caravan covers, and the latest driving light accessory, there are a few things you should consider investing in if you’re going to get a high-tech WiFi router.

• Battery monitors: If your WiFi device is plugged in, it can sap energy from other devices, such as camping fridges, caravan heaters, or cooking appliances. Battery monitors can help you keep track of your energy usage.
• Camping battery: If your WiFi modem is wireless, then invest in portable chargers to keep the device powered up. You could also consider investing in deep-cycle batteries for intensive usage.
• Security: If your caravan is stocked up with the latest gadgets, ensure you have sufficient protection. Invest in a decent lock for your caravan door and additional safety measures to keep your belongings safe.

Are you looking for more information about caravans?

If you’re interested in learning more about caravans, then feel free to check out the following useful resources:

• 8 best caravan towing courses.
• Who said EVs can’t tow?
• 10 best cars for towing caravans and trailers.
• The ultimate guide to towing rules and regulations in Australia.
• The best trailer set-up for camping.
• What is tow ball weight, and why does it matter?
• Must-have caravan accessories for any adventure.
• Top 10 caravan storage ideas.
• Towing a caravan: Elecbrakes’ guide to towing.
• What can I tow with Elecbrakes?
• Elecbrakes electric brake controller app makes towing easy.
• What is a brake controller and how do they work?

Make your caravan journey as smooth as can be

So, you’ve got the WiFi, and you’ve got the trip planned, but what about the journey? Here at Elecbrakes, we’re passionate about making caravan towing a breeze.

Brake controllers are a legal requirement for towing in Australia, but not all are made equally.
We want to make towing a breeze with electric brake controllers that you can set up in minutes.

There’s a reason we have a 5-star rating on TrustPilot! Transform your caravan trip into a smooth journey all around; try Elecbrakes today.