Tip 4: Create a Connectivity Plan for Traveling Across America
Mobile internet can quickly become expensive!
Before I started traveling full-time, I was a happy Google Fi customer. The phone service accessed towers from three U.S. phone companies and worked well overseas. I’ve used it in the Maldives, Dubai, Mexico, Belize, and several Caribbean countries. If you plan to travel internationally, I highly recommend it.
So, why don’t I have it anymore? Sadly, the 20 GB cap was far too low for use as my main data plan. Using it for work wasn’t too bad, but once I started working on my YouTube channel in January 2021, I experienced true throttling!
What To Plan For
With that in mind, here are some main considerations to keep in mind when choosing your internet setup:
Will you need reliable WiFi for work or does connecting every once in a while work fine for you?
How much data do you expect to use when on the road?
Will you be in areas that provide free WiFi? Keep in mind that WiFi at most hotels and RV parks sucks.
What are the areas you plan to visit? Which phone company provides the best coverage in these areas?
What is your total budget for internet costs and phone plans?
In pursuit of realistic answers to these questions, I tried seven U.S. data plans. I wrote a full review that you can use to help determine what your final setup will look like.
LESSON: Planning ahead for connectivity reduces the risk of running out of data or losing a connection altogether when you need it most.
TIP: Two low-cost unlimited plans from different carriers is better than one expensive plan from a major carrier. When one doesn’t work, the other might.
QUESTION: How much of your budget can you realistically dedicate to paying for internet and phone plans?
If you’re a paid subscriber, tomorrow you’ll receive a second email explaining how to create your mobile internet setup, how to budget for one, and how to protect your information on public networks.
Next week, I’ll share connectivity tips for my current home—MEXICO!
— Alexis Chateau