Vanlife offers the ultimate freedom — wide skies, winding roads, and waking up somewhere new. But for many of us, connection is still essential. Whether it’s uploading blog posts, staying in touch with loved ones, navigating remote terrain, or simply checking the forecast, reliable internet is part of life on the move.

Here’s how I stay connected wherever the road takes us — from quiet forests to windswept coasts.

1. Mobile Data Is King (But Know Your Limits)

My main connection lifeline is a mobile data plan. I have an O2 unlimited plan and have used this in Europe when required as the primary data sim, but also as a backup to either local sims, a Holafly multiple country eSIM package or a multiple country Connect PLS package, as different combinations to check out the different options and how robust they were.

I’ve found that a generous monthly data allowance, ideally unlimited or with high caps, gives us the flexibility to stream, upload, research and work without worry. Working as a contractor, I always have a backup to give me peace of mind, but that is my personal preference.

🔍 Tip: Always check local coverage maps before heading too far off-grid. A beautiful spot with no signal might be a dream — or a dead end if you’re on deadline.

🔍 Tip: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/cheap-mobile-finder/sim-only-filters/ is a very helpful site to check out the latest and best deals.

2. Signal Boosters & Antennas

An external antenna mounted discreetly on the van helps improve signal strength in remote or rural locations. While it won’t create magic where there’s no reception at all, it can turn one bar into three, enough for browsing or video calls.

In practice, we stay flexible using a SIM card in a dedicated 5G (when 5G is available) motorhome wifi device to create our own Wi-Fi hotspot in the van, which is also a portable device so that you have your own wifi hotspot wherever you go if you choose.

We chose a motorhome device that has an external antenna — a game-changer when signal is weak.

3. European Roaming & SIM Choices

When travelling across borders, we have used local SIM cards or as mentioned above packages from providers, which allow you to wander from country to country without having to change to a different SIM. This convenience though needs to be balanced against the fact that these packages tend to be more expensive than local SIMs.  

Holafly’s eSIM package provided a robust connection when I used this as a hotspot using my mobile.

I have used several options with ConnectPLS, their eSIM offering, a physical data SIM and their mobile router package. For the most part their packages worked well, but I did find that, when close to country borders, I experienced connectivity issues, particularly when close to the Spanish-Portugal border and when touring round the Southern tip of Spain. Their portable device did work well for the most part.

4. Offline Backups & Downloads

Not every day will bring a perfect connection, so plan ahead, downloading offline maps, entertainment, and any work materials I’ll need if the signal drops. That way, I can keep going even if the world goes quiet for a while.

5. Managing Data Use Smartly

I avoid automatic updates, background app refreshes, and unnecessary cloud syncing when using limited data. Most devices allow “low data mode,” which helps stretch the gigabytes.

🐾 Bow Boe’s Note: “Even when there’s no signal, I still get full attention on beach walks. No Wi-Fi needed.”

6. Public Wi-Fi — With Caution

When available, I’ll sometimes use public Wi-Fi, cafés, libraries, or campsites, but only with a VPN running to keep things secure. That said, I try not to rely on it. You never know if it’ll be strong enough or even work at all.

Final Thoughts

Staying connected on the road is all about balance. We don’t chase full bars, but we do prepare. With a reliable router (it doesn’t need to be a more expensive external antennae device), a solid data plan, and a few smart habits, you can keep your digital life running smoothly while still living in the moment.

The road can be wild — but connection doesn’t have to be.

Warmly, Steve & Bow Boe