WiFi Tips and Tricks for Your Next RV Trip

Staying connected while traveling is important to most people, so having available WiFi is a necessity. Whether you work from your RV, live in your RV full-time or are taking occasional trips, being able to connect quickly helps things run smoother.

Although many parks offer this free service as an amenity, but, because of the number of guests trying to access it at any given time, it may be difficult to tap into it. The reasons may include obstacles such as trees or buildings in the way as well as limited or low-powered signals. Even when there are multiple transmitters, connecting can be fleeting.

No-one wants to use up their data while on the road, so let’s take a look at some remedies.

Check out these WiFi tips.

1. Create your own WiFi hotspot (follow these instructions from techbuzz)
2. Use an extender antenna (Tom’s Guide provides his best picks for extender antennas)
3. Try a booster (Actiontek has a good synopsis of when to use this option)

Breaking down the options.

A hotspot is a wireless access point, typically in a public location.

You can access a hotspot from a smart phone or laptop. Many cafes, bookstores and other businesses offer hotspots so their customers can connect to the internet. It’s important to take security measures when using a hotspot, because they are public. By installing a VPN on your mobile device, your data will be encrypted, so even if you’re hacked, the information is impossible to read.

An extender antenna is is a type of wireless repeater.

This device may be used when the network signal isn’t getting to all the areas you need it to. Sometimes techies call these areas deadzones.

A booster extends a signal by boosting or amplifying it.

When you visit Stonebridge RV Park in Sweeny, Texas, you’ll find FREE WiFi to be one of the many amenities offered.

The frustration of a good, available signal is frustrating at best. By trying one of the options list ed here, we’re confident you will find a solution that works best for your situation.

Fishing, Fishing and More Fishing at this RV Park

If you love fishing and you love the country, Stonebridge RV Park and Resort is the perfect place to spend some time this year.

Fishing is so relaxing.

Who doesn’t like to kick back beside a pretty lake and throw a line for a couple hours? You can start by setting up your lawn chair, close enough to have a seat while you wait for that bite. Open your tackle box and set it by your chair, so if you need something it’s right there handy.

Here are some of the specific items you’ll need while fishing.

You’ll for sure want to have either live bait, dead bait, or lures. Depending on what you’re hoping to catch, that’s how you’ll decide what you bait you’ll use. When you catch the fish, you’ll most likely need a net. Pliers are also necessary in case the fish swallows the hook. Some fishermen like to have a pair of gloves handy just for such purposes. Other items that you’ll want to be sure and have in your tackle box are extra line, hooks, and weights.

And don’t forget about some of the more “convenient” items to bring along fishing. A wide-brimmed hat to keep some shade over your face and a pair of sunglasses so the glare of the water doesn’t blind you. Also, you’ll want something refreshing to drink while you kick back and relax.

Don’t forget to read up on the park’s guidelines before you head out to the lake and pond.

At Stonebridge all fishing is catch-and-release, so guests of all ages can enjoy fishing for years to come. Because of this rule, you’ll find some monster fish! Be sure to have your camera handy for those quick pictures before you release your catch back into the water.

It’s so nice to see so many different people, from small children to grandparents, having fun fishing while they visit the park. It’s just one of the great amenities the visitors and long-term guests get to enjoy.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term RV Park Differences

Traveling full time may mean you’re staying long-term at many parks & resorts. For this reason, you’ll want specific amenities that will meet your needs.

Long-term parks offer many amenities other resorts don’t.

Full-time RVers or those relocating temporarily for work require more amenities. Having access to grocery items, laundry services, exercise facilities, extended site space and more privacy are important. Let’s take a look at each of these and why they matter.

Access to groceries on a regular basis is a must when you’re traveling long-term.

Full-time RVers tend to cook meals frequently rather than eating out. Not only does eating out cost more, it’s definitely not as healthy. Finding a variety in restaurant choices also poses challenges. For these reasons, cooking meals is more appealing. Having access to fresh groceries is a paramount factor for RVers staying in one place for long periods of time.

Laundry services is also a vital amenity when choosing a long-term RV site.

With limited storage space for clothing, RVers need access to washers and dryers. Some professionals may prefer a wash and fold service, or even dry-cleaning. Some executive RV parks offer pick-up and delivery laundry services, or even have this service on-site. One park that boasts a lovely laundry facility with room to work and relax is Stonebridge RV Park in Sweeny, Texas.

Exercising while traveling is key to living healthy.

Many RV parks and resorts have state of art exercise facilities. RVers who travel for work especially look for this amenity. Being able to get a workout in even when the weather is terrible outside is crucial to maintaining a life-balance. Easy RV, one of our partners in the travel industry, highlights Steve Kamb, who founded Nerd Fitness, in this awesome blog.

Last, but certainly not the least important to long-term RVers, is adequate privacy.

Travelers who need to stay in a particular area for longer lengths of time, look for a little more space. Understandably, if you’re staying in one spot for awhile, you’ll want more privacy than the average RV park offers. Some parks have special spots they reserve for long-term guests or shift-workers. If you’re planning to stay in one location be sure to let the manager know when making your reservation, so they can assign you the most advantageous site.

Arriving and Setting up Camp at an RV Park

Most RVers and campers have stories to share about obnoxious families who create such havoc and unrest while setting up. You don’t want to ruin the ambiance for everyone else. This article will help you plan your arrival and your set-up strategy, so your neighbors will invite you around the campfire instead of telling stories about you behind your back.

The Quiet Arrival

Realize how you handle your arrival when there are others nearby will set the tone for your entire experience. Some parks have arrival cut-off times, be there by a particular time or you must wait until the following day. The rest of the parks probably allow for arrivals at any time, such as Stonebridge RV Park.

The impression you make by arriving quietly will go a long way towards good relations with others nearby. The folks who are already there may be in the middle of a family meal, a nap or other activities that require consideration. People appreciate thoughtfulness.

It’s a good rule of thumb to plan on arriving at any location well before sunset. There are a couple of  reasons for this helpful guideline. First, you’ll need plenty of light to get parked correctly at your site. Seasoned RVers can vouch for all sites being different and many times this requires some pretty skilled parking maneuvers. Oh the stories that can be told after kicking back on a Friday afternoon and watching the arrival of 100 RVs and trailers pouring into the busiest of parks near popular tourist destinations.

Also, day light is necessary to familiarize yourself with your site amenities.  Hooking up your amenities in the dark is no fun. Securing your site and ensuring safety for those who will be walking around the area is important. Once you’re connected to the services, it’s time to personalize your site for comfort and enjoyment.

Setting Up Requires Thoughtfulness and Planning

As you’re customizing your spot with rugs, chairs, table, cooking supplies, lighting and whatever else you like to bring along, keep in mind, setting up quietly and efficiently is key to being a good neighbor. Assigning tasks will result in a quicker set-up, when everyone helps it’s much faster! We love this good tip from GoRVing which is a running list of supplies to remember each time you hit the road. In all your excitement planning for the trip, it’s easy to forget important items that can make camping better.

Reasons to Choose an RV Park with Amenities

Trip Savvy shares a great story on what to expect at different types of places where you can park your RV.