How to Connect Even When You're 'Disconnecting'

As technology gains momentum, more and more companies are allowing employees to work remotely. According to some sources, remote workers are expected to grow to 50 percent over the next few years. And with adequate Internet access, freelancers and business owners can pretty much work wherever they want.

However, as many a Teardrop novice has learned, it’s not quite as simple as hitting the road, opening up your computer and getting to work while staring at a view of a snow-capped mountain. Anyone who works from the road can tell you there is a learning curve. However, a little advance planning and overall knowledge of your Internet options can help you avoid the missing that all-important meeting or deadline. Read on for a general education in internet options from the road.

Wi-Fi at the RV Park

Most, RV parks include Wi-Fi service in your nightly or weekly parking fee. Websites like Campendium and others even tell you what kind of coverage you can expect at a given park. If your Internet needs are limited, this may suffice, but as any experienced remote worker will tell you, it often will not. That’s because the connection is shared by everyone in the park, which can cause it to be slow and in the worst-case scenario there may be times when you can’t connect at all. Park networks can also be less than secure, taking this option off the table if your work requires strict confidentiality. In any case, depending on your needs, it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan.

Vehicle Hotspot

If you’ve purchased a new to vehicle in the past few years, chances are your vehicle has an Internet Hotspot. If so, this may be the lifeline you need when park Wi-Fi is slow or unreliable. The downside is the vehicle has to be on to use it, putting a drain on your battery, so you have to mindful in that regard. However, it can be a true lifesaver when you have to get on a call or deliver on a deadline. If your vehicle doesn’t have an internet hotspot, don’t despair – you still have options.

Smartphone Hotspot

Smartphones have a built-in hotspot, allowing you to connect to the Internet anywhere your phone has coverage. As long as you have a charged phone and cell coverage, a hotspot is usually as good or than any park connection. Additionally, it will support multiple devices, but you are using data so be sure to upgrade your plan to support usage.

Air card

An Air card is a small device that allows you to connect to high speed internet and is a great option as long as you are in range of a cell phone signal. They are also password protected and therefore offer a more secure connection than park Wi-Fi can offer.

Satellite

Satellite is generally the best option for those who have substantial internet needs or want to be away from it all. The option you choose will depend on multiple factors, like the amount of data you’ll transfer and the size of your trailer. It’s also more expensive and requires a dish and a satellite service. Make sure you are using proper ground placement brackets to point your satellite in the right direction.

Coverage on the road can be tricky so if your livelihood depends on it you may want to rely on multiple options. If you are working on time and/or Internet sensitive projects, it might be best to plan your travels so that you are in range of cellular services and save the super remote camping for weekends and time off.

Regardless, with proper planning, you can work remotely without putting yourself in a jam.

Happy travels in 2020!