Tag: RV Upgrades

Staying Connected on the Road – Our Dual Approach to RV Internet

April 19, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

Fellow wanderers, staying connected on the road isn’t just about convenience—it’s essential. Whether working remotely, streaming your favorite shows, or keeping in touch with loved ones, reliable internet is necessary for full-time RV life.

We use a dual-internet strategy to ensure a strong and stable connection: Starlink satellite internet with the Starlink HP Dish and cellular internet from T-Mobile and Verizon via a Pepwave Max BR-1 Pro 5G dual-SIM router. This combination keeps us online no matter where the road takes us.

The Problem with Campground WiFi

Many campgrounds advertise free WiFi, but the reality is often disappointing. These networks are designed for basic browsing and struggle under heavy use, especially when dozens (or hundreds) of RVers are trying to stream, video call, or work remotely.

Relying on campground WiFi alone isn’t viable for those needing fast, stable internet.

Our Dual Internet Strategy

To bypass unreliable campground connections, we use two primary sources of internet:

1. Starlink with the Starlink HP Dish

Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet service, has been a game-changer for RVers. We had Elkhart Satellite Systems permanently install the Starlink HP Dish on Bertie Bea during the FRVA International Convention (March 2024), allowing us to stay connected even in remote areas where cell signals are weak or nonexistent.

With speeds up to 200 Mbps download and 30 Mbps upload, Starlink provides a reliable connection for video calls, streaming, and remote work, without the buffering and lag common with campground WiFi. Plus, it comes with unlimited data, so there’s no need to worry about usage caps.

2. Cellular Internet via T-Mobile and Verizon

When satellite internet isn’t ideal, such as during storms or in heavily wooded areas, we switch to cellular internet.

We use TechnoRV’s InternetOnTheGo with T-Mobile and Verizon, two of the top networks for nationwide coverage, managed through a pre-configured Pepwave Max BR-1 Pro 5G dual-SIM router.

This router allows us to:

✔ Seamlessly switch between carriers based on signal strength
✔ Maintain connectivity even when moving between urban and rural areas

This flexibility ensures we always have a reliable internet source, no matter where we roam.

Comparing Internet Options

Option	Pros	Cons
Campground WiFi	Free, easy to access	Slow, unreliable, not ideal for streaming or work
Starlink	High-speed, unlimited data, works in remote areas	Higher upfront & monthly costs, needs a clear sky view
Cellular Internet (T-Mobile & Verizon)	Fast, flexible, works in cities & rural areas	Data limits and signal strength vary by location and provider

Essential Equipment for Reliable RV Internet

To maximize connectivity, investing in the right equipment is key:

1. Starlink HP Dish

Provides high-speed internet anywhere with a clear sky view
Permanently mounted on Bertie Bea for convenience

2. Pepwave Max BR-1 Pro 5G Router

Supports dual-SIM capability for seamless switching between networks
Can switch between T-Mobile and Verizon signals for the best connection

3. External Antennas & Signal Boosters

Improve weak cellular signals in remote areas
Elkhart Satellite Systems installed a cellular booster on Bertie Bea at the FRVA International Convention (March 2025), which will definitely help during our 2025 trip to Colorado and Wyoming.

4. Mounting & Power Accessories

Proper mounting ensures a stable Starlink setup
Power inverters keep the internet running even off-grid

Choosing the Right Setup for Your RV Life

The best internet solution depends on your travel style, budget, and connectivity needs:

Frequent boondocker or full-time RVer? Starlink is worth the investment.
Do you mainly travel in areas with strong cellular coverage? A good mobile router with multiple carrier options may be enough.
Do you need a rock-solid connection at all times? A hybrid approach (Starlink + cellular) is the ultimate safety net.

Combining Starlink’s satellite internet with cellular connections, we’ve transformed Bertie Bea into a fully connected mobile office and entertainment hub. No matter where we park, we stay online, productive, and entertained.

Because after all, not all who wander are lost—but we love being connected!

Bertie Bea Parked in Birmingham South RV Park

Internet Connected Devices for the RV

December 17, 2024 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The internet has transformed how RVers manage and monitor their rigs, making it easier than ever to stay connected to essential systems, no matter where life takes you. In my RV, Bertie Bea, I’ve embraced this technology to keep track of critical details like interior temperatures, power status, propane levels, and refrigerator performance. Whether I’m parked at a campground or hundreds of miles away at home, these smart systems ensure that my rig stays safe, functional, and ready for my next adventure.

One of my most significant upgrades was installing the Micro-Air EasyTouch RV thermostat. This innovative thermostat connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, allowing me to remotely control Bertie Bea’s heating and cooling systems using my iPhone. It’s a game-changer for RVers who need flexible climate control, especially during unpredictable weather. For example, if I’m away during the holidays and a sudden cold snap hits, I can check the interior temperature and adjust the thermostat to keep the RV comfortable and prevent frozen pipes. The Micro-Air system is reliable, easy to use, and perfect for anyone looking to modernize their RV climate control. If you’re curious about this technology, you can find more details on Micro-Air’s website.

Micro-Air WiFi/Bluetooth Enabled Thermostats

I use the Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog 50 Amp EPO Gen II to ensure Bertie Bea always has a reliable power supply. Power issues at campgrounds, such as outages or surges, are more common than you’d think and can wreak havoc on an RV’s electronics. After experiencing a few scares with unstable power, I decided to protect Bertie Bea with this smart surge protector. The Hughes Watchdog shields my rig from damaging surges and allows me to monitor power status in real-time through its iPhone app. The device connects via WiFi and Bluetooth, sending detailed updates about voltage levels and alerting me to any issues. Whether I’m inside the RV or hundreds of miles away, I have complete peace of mind knowing my electrical systems are protected. Check out the Hughes Autoformers website to find the perfect surge protector for your RV.

Hughes Autoformers 50 amp Power Watchdog EPO Gen II — Hughes Autoformers Power Watchdog Gen II 50 amp Surge Protector

I installed Mopeka Pro Check Sensors on both my onboard and external propane tanks for propane monitoring. These sensors pair with a Mopeka 2.4GHz WiFi Bridge to provide internet connectivity, allowing me to check propane levels from my phone. This has been particularly useful during winter when propane consumption tends to spike. For instance, if I’m away for a few days, I can quickly verify I have enough fuel to keep the RV heated without having to physically inspect the tanks. It’s a small upgrade that greatly impacts convenience and peace of mind. Check out the Mopeka IOT Propane products on their website.

Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on the internal propane tank — Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on the bottom of the internal propane tank

Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor on portable propane tank — Mopeka Pro Tank Sensor installed on a portable propane tank

Together, these connected systems have completely changed how I interact with my RV. I no longer worry about what’s happening inside Bertie Bea when I’m not there. With a quick glance at my phone, I can confirm that the temperature is stable, the power is connected, the propane tanks are full, and the refrigerator is running as it should. This level of control and awareness makes all the difference when you’re managing a home on wheels.

Whether you’re a full-time RVer, a snowbird, or a weekend traveler, integrating smart technology into your RV can simplify your life and provide much-needed peace of mind. Knowing your rig is protected, comfortable, and ready for any adventure—no matter where you are—allows you to focus on enjoying the journey. These upgrades have been worth every penny, and I wouldn’t RV without them.

Bertha Gets Some Furniture Updates and Upgrades

December 15, 2021 / Stan.Cromlish / 2 Comments

New Theater Seating being Installed in Bertha

The sofa that came in Bertha was uncomfortable and didn’t allow for anything more than a place to sit or as a pull-out bed, a place to sleep. I spent the entirety of my Summer 2021 RV Adventure complaining about it. So, on November 5, I took Bertha to Quality RV in North Belmont for her scheduled maintenance and a furniture upgrade.

In doing my research, I found that the Thomas Payne Seismic Theater Seating by Lippert would fit my needs perfectly. The Seismic theater seating comes with power recline  and lumbar functionalities, a chaise-style footrest, heated seats, and massage options,  LED lighting,  dual  cupholders, a storage compartment, and a fold-down center console. The cost for the furniture with shipping was roughly, $2,250.00. Installation would be an additional charge from Quality RV.

The dinette cushions after spending my summer using the dinette for eight to twelve-hour workdays were beginning to flake and crack at the edges. When I returned home on October 23, I decided that I would need to get them recovered and have the foam replaced since it had weakened over time as well. I went to J&J Auto Upholstery in Gastonia, North Carolina, and showed him the cushions. He quoted me $225 per cushion to recover and replace the foam. Three weeks later, the cushions looked great and the foam will allow me to work comfortably for hours.

The installation looks great and will give me years of enjoyment. I can’t wait to use them on my Winter 2022 trip which starts on December 30th with a visit to Kick Back Ranch & Event Center in Alabama.