Optimise internet reception on camping holidays
Better network connection with outdoor antenna and WiFi amplifier
For many campers, access to the internet is a basic need, even on camping holidays. Outdoor antennas and WiFi amplifiers can be used to optimise internet reception on campsites if the reliability of the WiFi signal leaves much to be desired.
Table of contents
Surfing via WiFi Hotspot at the Campsite
Many campsites are equipped with WiFi. You can find out whether there is internet access at the campsite before you arrive by consulting the campsite guide or the website of the campsite you want to visit. You can log into the campsite WiFi via a hotspot on site.
But often the signal is too weak to dial in with a smartphone or laptop at the plot. Sometimes the only option is to visit the campsite bar or reception where the signal is broadcast. In addition, the signal is weakened when many campers go online at the same time.
Unfortunately, internet access is not free at many campsites. Sometimes you have to book access by the hour, which really adds up over time. In many countries, however, free WiFi is already widespread and is part of the standard offer in restaurants and bars. Some cities also offer free WiFi access in pedestrian zones.
Here we show you how mobile internet works in a motorhome.
Outdoor Antenna and WiFi Amplifier
If there is a weak WiFi or 4G/5G signal in the area, you can boost it with an outdoor WiFi antenna. There are two different antennas that enable internet reception. Here you can find all WiFi repeaters, routers and adapters in the Berger online shop.
- Pure WiFi amplifiers boost the signal of a surrounding WiFi network so that you can establish a stable connection. For this purpose, the signals of the network are picked up, bundled and amplified.
- Mobile radio antennas pick up signals from the mobile network (4G or 5G/LTE). Dial-up to the mobile network is either via a SIM card in the antenna itself, or via the mobile end device (smartphone/tablet).
Internet antennas are mostly constructed in the form of roof antennas. Due to their elevated position, roof antennas can receive and transmit internet signals largely without loss. In addition, the permanently mounted antenna does not have to be assembled and disassembled on the road. The safest way to mount the outdoor antenna is with glue and screws. Depending on the equipment and functionality, roof antennas cost between 500 and 1,000 euros (plus installation).
Internet Antennas for Roof and Windows
Certain roof antennas are particularly suitable for higher motorhomes and panel vans thanks to their low height of only 75 millimetres. Perfect when the external antenna can be equipped with two SIM cards (dual SIM). This means you can also surf via a foreign mobile phone provider if necessary (e.g. in a non-EU country).
A more affordable solution is the window antenna. This portable antenna is attached to the window with a suction base. The included mobile router transmits the signals to several end devices simultaneously. However, unlike the permanently fixed roof antenna, the window antenna cannot be used while driving.
Conclusion: Secure Internet Connection
No one has to do without the internet on a camping holiday. High-quality roof antennas are not cheap, but you save on buying a satellite system if you watch TV online. Whether you need an external antenna at all depends on your travel destinations. If you mainly visit 5-star campsites, a stable internet connection is often already provided. Here you can find all WiFi antennas and routers in the Berger online shop.
