Reliable internet from an RV isn't optional for us — it's how we work, homeschool, stream, and stay connected with family. After years of dead zones, throttled hotspots, and campground WiFi that barely loads email, we built a setup that actually works.
The Hardware Stack
Primary Router: GL.iNet GL-XE3000
The GL.iNet GL-XE3000 is our primary router. It has a built-in 5G/LTE modem, WiFi 6, and runs OpenWrt. It handles failover between cellular carriers, VPN tunneling, and subnet routing.
Backup: GL.iNet GL-X3000
We carry a GL.iNet GL-X3000 as a backup. Having two routers means if one SIM gets deprioritized, we switch to the other carrier.
External Antennas
For weak signal areas, we use external MIMO antennas mounted on the RV roof. The difference can be 20+ dBm — "no signal" vs. "streaming Netflix."
The Software Layer
Speedify (Bonding VPN)
Speedify bonds multiple internet connections into one. We run T-Mobile cellular + Starlink through Speedify on the router level. If one connection drops, the other carries the load seamlessly.
Tailscale (Mesh VPN)
Every device runs Tailscale. It creates a private mesh network so our phones, laptops, and servers can talk to each other regardless of what campground NAT we're behind.
Cellular Plans
- T-Mobile — Magenta MAX with hotspot. Gets deprioritized at busy campgrounds but great rural coverage.
- Starlink — Roam plan. Satellite backhaul for when cellular is non-existent.
Monthly Cost
Our internet stack costs roughly $150/month all-in. It sounds like a lot until you realize campground WiFi is free and useless. This setup lets us work full-time from anywhere.
Tips
- Never rely on campground WiFi — it's shared with 200 other rigs
- Multiple carriers beat one fast carrier — coverage gaps are real
- External antennas are not optional for full-timers
- Test your setup before you need it
Keep Reading
- Our RV Setup: What We Drive, What We Changed, What We Would Do Differently
- Our RV Power Setup: Solar Panels, Portable Stations & Staying Off-Grid
- Best Gear for Raising Kids in an RV (Ages 2-8)
- 7 RV Kitchen Essentials That Earn Their Counter Space
🎒 Curious what gear we use? Check out our complete gear guide — every product tested over 200+ nights on the road.
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