Let’s Compare TravlFi and Starlink Internet When Used by Traveling RVers Like Us.
If you’re like us, digital nomads who constantly have new landscapes outside your RV window, you know how crucial having a reliable internet connection is.
Our Wifi journey from back in the stone ages of 2018 to now has been quite the experience!
Finding the perfect internet solution was top of our list when we first hit the road. I mean, how do you manage client calls, download educational videos, stream movies, build websites, and share off those Instagram posts without it? It's been quite the quest, folks!
Imagine this: 6 years ago, four travel-newbies (two remote-working parents, two homeschooled kids) adventuring all around the US while trying to piece together different hotspots, cell phone data plans, and signal boosters to get enough signal and data to still be productive. That was our life when we first embarked on this full-time RV lifestyle back in 2018, because there just weren’t any great solutions back then.
Enter Starlink in 2022
When Starlink rolled out, it felt like we'd hit the internet jackpot. Fast speeds even in remote locations was a dream come true. It was bliss for a good while, and we thought we had our internet needs completely covered. Our travels happened to land us in places where it worked well, and for a while we didn’t see a need for an alternative.
But here's the thing about adventures and travel—they don't always play nice with tech.
We found ourselves nestled in a nice shaded spot for a season, which, while perfect for beating the summer heat, turned our Starlink connection into a game of "Will it work today?"
On top of that, as we contemplated another trip to the Pacific Northwest and thought about our favorite destinations throughout northern California, Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, the same image kept coming to mind…big trees!
That's when TravlFi entered the picture.
Lets compare it with Starlink…
Let's dive into why TravlFi might just be the unsung hero for RVers, especially those of us who've faced the wrath of tree cover or love the idea of internet-on-the-go.
Unlimited Data Galore
Both Starlink and TravlFi promise the digital Holy Grail - unlimited data. But here’s the kicker—TravlFi also offers plans for those less data-hungry among us, starting from plans as low as $19.
It’s perfect for when you're unplugging more but still need to check in. It’s also great for when we know we won’t need it all month, like these upcoming month for us- we’re traveling to Europe!
We only need wifi for about 5 days before we hop on a plane, so instead of paying for unlimited data next month, we’ll downgrade to a cheaper smaller data plan.
(If we know we’ll be out in the middle of nowhere and Starlink will be our main internet source for the month, but will still also need hotspot access, we can just downgrade our TravelFi plan that month to any of their smaller plans that fit our needs.)
Signal Strength
Being a satellite internet solution, Starlink demands a clear shot at the northern sky to beam down its internet signal. Great in the open, less so under a canopy of leaves.
TravlFi, on the other hand, taps into cell signals and isn't picky about which one, making it a champ in coverage versatility. As long as there is a cell tower somewhere nearby, we’ll have wifi!
Equipment and Costs
Here’s where the rubber meets the road. TravlFi’s gear starts at $149 (which includes a $50 instant rebate as of March, 2024).
Starlink’s setup can range from $599 to a whopping $2500.
As for monthly costs, TravlFi's unlimited data plan is $129, a slight edge over our Starlink plan’s $150 cost. For families like us, every penny saved is a penny toward the next adventure.
On the Move Connectivity
TravlFi shines with its in-motion use, and you can take it anywhere. That means live streaming your road trip, keeping the kids entertained with online games or staying productive with school work without skipping a beat.
Starlink, while amazing, needs you to shell out for its premium setup if you want to install it on your RV roof and use it in-motion. If we unhitch the RV and park it, Starlink stays with the RV, so we can’t use it on the go (Anyone else like to work at the beach or inside Yosemite Valley? 🙋♀️)
Summary
It's pretty clear Starlink has become a staple for us on the road. It’s been a game-changer, delivering internet in places we thought we’d have to go without. But, like anything, it’s not without its quirks.
That's where TravlFi steps in, acting like the other half of a dynamic duo. It’s not just an alternative but a complement to Starlink, coming through in the clutch in situations where satellite internet just isn’t viable.
Because it relies on cellular signals and juggles between carriers, TravlFi is versatile, allowing us to stay connected whether we're on the move or nestled under a canopy of trees.
For some travelers, TravlFi might even take the lead role, especially if your route is dotted with spots that challenge satellite connectivity. It’s practical, cost-effective, and just flexible enough to cater to a variety of needs and travel styles.
Read our full review of TravlFi >>
In the end, while Starlink has secured its spot in our travel tech lineup, it’s the combination with TravlFi that really rounds out our connectivity strategy. This pairing ensures that whether we’re experiencing remote landscapes or cozy, shaded retreats, our internet needs are covered.
Prices and tech specs change as quickly as our travel plans, so do your homework on their websites for current pricing a device options before making a decision.
We love to hear from other RV families and solo adventurers alike. Tell us about your internet setup in the comments below. Lets keep this community thriving, sharing, and, most importantly, exploring!