Interrupted or dropped calls can be frustrating, especially if you often travel to remote locations in your RV. The solution is simple and affordable: Getting a reliable cell phone signal booster for camping will strengthen your cell phone signal and improve the quality of your calls, no matter where you are, even when you’re parked away from the signal tower. With the best cell phone booster for RV, you won’t have to worry about signal interruptions caused by bad weather and obstacles, such as mountains, hills and trees.
Cell phone booster for RV is a worthy investment, as it conveniently provides a wider coverage area that allows you to make calls and send text messages both inside and outside of your RV. The device will also increase upload and download speeds of cellular-connected devices, including phones, tablets or laptops.
This comprehensive guide will help you get the best RV cell phone booster for your rig, stress-free, as we have handpicked the most reliable, functional and durable models available, based on their specifications and in-depth RV cell phone booster reviews. In case you’re not very familiar with this device, you will learn everything you need to know, including how an RV cell phone booster works, their benefits, the different types, the most important buying criteria, some of the most prestigious manufacturers on the market, as well as handy installation guide and answers to frequently asked questions.
Contents
- Comparison Chart of Best RV Cell Phone Boosters
- The Basics of RV Cell Phone Signal Booster
- Reviews on Best Cell Phone Boosters For RV
- 1. weBoost Drive 4G-X (470410) – Best Of The Best
- 2. Phonetone AN-L45AV – Editor’s Choice
- 3. Wilson Electronics 460108 – Editor’s Choice
- 4. weBoost Drive 4G-M (470108)
- 5. weBoost Drive 4G-X OTR (470210)
- 6. SureCall Fusion2Go
- 7. SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0
- 8. HiBoost C27G-5S
- 9. weBoost Drive X RV (471410)
- 10. SureCall Fusion2Go Max
- Choosing The Best Cell Phone Booster For RV: Key Criteria
- Types Of RV Phone Boosters
- Top RV Cell Phone Booster Brands
- How To Install A Cell Phone Signal Booster In An RV
- FAQs About RV Cell Phone Boosters
Comparison Chart of Best RV Cell Phone Boosters
Product's name | Price | Specifications | More Info | |
---|---|---|---|---|
weBoost Drive 4G-X RV (470410) Cell Phone Signal Booster for Your RV or... | $$$$ | Universal compatibility Stationary and mobile All components included | See Latest Price | |
Cell Phone Signal Booster for Car, Truck and SUV - Enhance 4G Data and... | $$$$ | Automatic adjustment No physical connection FCC-certified | See Latest Price | |
No products found. | No products found. | $$$$ | Automatic oscillation/overload protection Multi-support Built-in mounting holes | No products found. |
weBoost Drive 4G-M (470108)Vehicle Cell Phone Signal Booster 4G LTE -... | $$$$ | Low profile Mini magnet mount 4G LTE and 3G | See Latest Price | |
weBoost Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) Truck Cell Phone Signal Booster | U.S.... | $489.99 | Certified by FCC Weather-resistant Omnidirectional | See Latest Price | |
SureCall Fusion2Go-RV Cell Phone Signal Booster Kit for RVs, All Carriers... | $$$$ | Plug-and-play 4G LTE Work with all carriers | See Latest Price | |
SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0 RV Cell Signal Booster for Motorhome, 5G/4G LTE,... | $399.99 | 2XP technology 3G, 4G LTE and 5G Metal housing. | See Latest Price | |
No products found. | No products found. | $$$$ | Indicator lights Manual and automatic gain control Simultaneous support | No products found. |
weBoost Drive X RV - Cell Phone Signal Booster kit | Boosts 5G & 4G LTE for... | $479.99 | Extended range Modular design Tool-free installation | See Latest Price | |
SureCall Fusion2Go Max Cell Signal Booster for Remote Vehicles, 5G/4G LTE,... | $$$$ | ERT and 2XP technology 4G LTE and 5G LED indicators | See Latest Price |
The Basics of RV Cell Phone Signal Booster
What Is an RV Cell Signal Booster and How Does It Work?
An RV cell phone signal booster is a device designed to strengthen your present 3G and 4G LTE signals. It takes a spotty or weak signal that you presently receive from the closest cell tower then amplifies it for up to 32 times, then transmits the boosted signal within your rig.
Spotty or weak signals tend to happen when you are driving or parking your RV in a place far from a reliable cell tower, or there is something that obstructs or blocks your signal, such as mountains, hills and trees.
There is also a possibility that your rig serves as the obstruction itself, if it is constructed from materials that impede block cell phone signals. Certain metals like tin, copper, aluminum and others can completely block cellular signals, while materials that do not conduct electricity like wood, drywall, plastics, glass and energy saving window coatings will impede signals, but not block it.
With up-to-32-times signal amplification, you will be able to enjoy constant connection even in rural areas and in the case of surrounding obstacles and bad weather, faster internet speed, wider signal coverage which can extend to the external of your rig, lower likelihood of dropped calls, crystal-clear calls, and fast delivery and receipt of text messages.
Depending on each model’s type and signal boosting strength, it can effectively boost cell phone signal in a specific area in your RV, like your work station, up to the whole vehicle. What’s more, the best cell phone booster for camping are compatible with all cellular devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and hotspots.
RV Cell Booster Components
To understand in more detail how an RV cell phone booster works, let’s look at the component of a typical device. Also called a cell “amplifier” or sometimes “repeater”, a cell phone booster for RV is in essence a bidirectional amplifier.
These amplifier systems typically come with an exterior antenna as well as an interior antenna, a signal amplifier and a low-transmission-loss coaxial cable, which connects these components together. You can run the cables under the seats and floor mats for a clean look.
The main function of the exterior antenna, often mounted to your RV’s back ladder or roof, is to receive and transmit a signal to a cell tower. The exterior antenna is connected to the signal amplifier inside your rig via the coaxial cable, which connects to the inner antenna.
The external antenna receives signals from the closest cell tower, then transmits this signal to the amplifier, which amplifies the received signal. The amplified signal will then be re-broadcasted to the specific spots with a weak signal or no reception.
Benefits of Cell Phone Booster for RV
Flexible
The best cell phone booster for RV models these days are flexible and highly convenient. They work with a wide range of carriers and are also capable of supporting all networks, including 2G, 3G, and 4G, so more bang for your buck.
Portable RV cell phone signal booster are available in various types and price points with different signal boosting strengths and features, so you can have your pick that best suits your intended space. Depending on the specific model that you go for, you might be able to use it in your car, truck, boat or home.
Wider coverage area
Most cell phone boosters for RVs feature unidirectional outer antennas as well as dome or panel interior antennas. This combination works together to deliver a significantly wider coverage area inside your rig and might even offer you signal when you’re outside, so you and your companions can enjoy strong signals at the same time, no matter where you are.
Less dropped calls and better quality calls
When you’re on the road, especially on long trips, there are times when you would want to call your loved ones to keep them updated. Interrupted or dropped calls are frustrating, and you are more likely to experience them when you travel in rural areas where there are less cell towers.
With the best cell phone booster for RV, you will get strong enough signals so that your calls won’t get dropped or interrupted anymore. Aside from amplifying the strength of existing cell signals, the booster also “cleans” it by smoothing out disturbances or distortions caused by physical obstructions, such as tall buildings, mountains, hills and trees, therefore delivering higher quality calls.
If you travel all the time and tend to wander off the beaten path, getting the best cell phone booster for rural areas will be a worthwhile long-term investment.
Fast text messaging
With stronger cell phone signals, you will not only get clear, uninterrupted calls but will also enjoy instant text messaging without having to wait for minutes before you can see if your texts have actually been delivered. The best cell phone booster for RV also ensures that you can receive and deliver voice and multimedia messages faster.
Fast download and upload speeds
Most cell phone boosters for RV are compatible with various networks, including 3G and 4G. These systems will deliver better data connectivity quality as well as let you enjoy faster downloading and uploading speed, so you won’t have to sacrifice entertainment while being on the road.
Improves battery life of cellular devices
The indoor antenna is installed inside your RV, thus is closer to your mobile phones and other cellular devices. Compared to when your mobile devices are receiving signals directly from a faraway cell tower, receiving re-broadcasted signals from the indoor antenna lets your devices use less power, thus you can expect your battery power to run longer and generally this is better for your battery life.
Long lifespan and good value for money
Although you can find plenty of solid models for $200 and below, if you’re a full-time RVer that loves to explore rural areas, you might want to check out the higher quality boosters that typically sell for between $300 and $400, some might even cost a bit more. That might sound like a lot, but given the fact that these devices can last for a few decades with proper care, you are getting great value for money here.
The best cell phone boosters for RV on the market offered by the most prestigious manufacturers can offer a warranty as long as 5 years, which speaks volumes about the reliability, construction and durability of these systems.
In addition, since buying online is quite safe and convenient for this type of purchase, you can easily find the best deals and big sales on one of the best cell phone boosters for RV these days.
Another thing that makes them a bit more affordable is that now you can pick a specific cell service provider, which offers reliable service at the lowest price. Furthermore, these systems require a single installment only, with no additional charges when it comes to using them.
Reviews on Best Cell Phone Boosters For RV
Without further ado, below is our handpicked list of the best cell phone boosters for RV on the market. We did all the hard work of inspecting each model’s specification and browsing through in-depth RV cell phone booster reviews by full-time and seasoned RVers to check for their construction, functionality, reliability and durability.
We tried to get a good mix of different models with varying prices and features for different budgets and needs, so there is something for every camper. That said, if you’re not familiar with the various types of cell phone booster for RV and major buying criteria, skip to the next section to equip yourself with these very important information. Otherwise, dive right in.
1. weBoost Drive 4G-X (470410) – Best Of The Best
Why This Is The Best:
Purposely designed for RV application, weBoost Drive 4G-X (470410) never fails to meet the expectations of owners of recreational vehicles.
Owing to its universal compatibility, the weBoost booster could work with major carriers including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, U.S. Cellular, Straight Talk and more. In addition to that, Drive 4G-X (470410) is capable of amplifying cellular signals while stationary and on the move too.
Thus, for casual settings, weBoost Drive 4G-X (470410) is certainly the best cell phone booster for RV money can buy.
Compared to the average boosters for recreational vehicles, Drive 4G-X (470410) clearly proves to be superior in terms of coverage. With the booster of weBoost onboard, it’s a breeze to keep dropped calls to the minimum and increase audio quality, upload and download speed, …
About installation, weBoost Drive 4G-X (470410) is sold with all components included, so its setup process only lasts several moments.
As a result, Drive 4G-X (470410) is sought after by those that need a cell phone booster in a hurry.
As the booster from weBoost is certified by FCC (Federal Communications Commission), you could safely operate it anywhere you go.
Besides that, to reassure RVing enthusiasts, weBoost backs Drive 4G-X (470410) with a two-year warranty that covers manufacturing defects.
Pros
- Light and compact
- Consistent performance
- Instantaneous installation
Cons
- Price is kind of steep
- Tech support still needs some work
2. Phonetone AN-L45AV – Editor’s Choice
Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:
With the ability to accommodate multiple connections at the same time, Phonetone AN-L45AV is well-suited for family travels and large-party adventures.
Since no physical connection is required, the installation of the cell phone booster made by Phonetone is pretty straightforward and takes mere minutes to complete.
Once set up properly, AN-L45AV would ensure that everyone in its surrounding receives enhanced signals for virtually as long as it’s on.
A LED indicator is present too so it’s simple to determine the status of AN-L45AV of Phonetone.
Boasting an innovative gain control, the Phonetone cell phone booster detects existing signals and applies automatic adjustment for optimal reception.
Because of that, if you like to spend more time enjoying your trip and less time adjusting your rig equipment, AN-L45AV is the best cell phone booster for RV you could get nowadays.
In the course of operation, Phonetone AN-L45AV is going to enter sleep mode following prolonged periods of inactivity. Naturally, the booster of Phonetone is good at conserving energy.
Regarding compatibility, AN-L45AV works with devices that use service from leading carriers: Verizon, T-mobile and AT&T.
As it comes at a reasonable price, the Phonetone cell phone booster fits the shopping budget of most RVing enthusiasts.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Undemanding setup process
- Dependable and reliable
Cons
- Quality control needs to be overhauled
- People report slight fluctuations in coverage
3. Wilson Electronics 460108 – Editor’s Choice
No products found.
Why It’s An Editor’s Choice:
Put together with user’s convenience in mind, Wilson Electronics 460108 earns positive remarks from many RV cell phone booster reviews.
Able to get rid of frustrating issues such as dropped calls, lost bars, poor audios and so on, 460108 is a must-have for people that travel on a regular basis.
Also, the booster from Wilson Electronics integrates automatic oscillation/overload protection that guarantees smooth and steady reception in countless environments.
With Wilson Electronics 460108, staying in touch with friends and families is a piece of cake.
In use, packing a tough body, the cell phone booster made by Wilson Electronics could endure mild shocks and bumps.
Hence, if you avoid pushing 460108 to the extreme, it would be years before you need to find a booster replacement.
Aside from that, Wilson Electronics 460108 is compatible with quite a few mobile carriers including Sprint, US Cellular, Verizon and others.
That is why you don’t have to worry too much about compatibility as you use the Wilson Electronics booster.
Since 460108 of Wilson Electronics is distributed with everything included, you should have an easy time getting it up and running.
The Wilson Electronics signal booster is backed with a two-year warranty so to lots of RVers that seek an insurance policy, it’s the best cell phone booster for RV at its price range.
Pros
- Fast shipping
- Great handling
- Signal strength is outstanding
Cons
- Complaints about defective components surface intermittently
- Performance varies between units
4. weBoost Drive 4G-M (470108)
Why We Love It:
By employing SmartTech technology, weBoost Drive 4G-M (470108) boosts and maintains phone reception as the distance to cell towers changes.
Additionally, as the cell phone booster of weBoost is created to handle plenty of devices simultaneously, it allows multiple RVers to access increased cellular connectivity.
Needless to say, among RVing enthusiasts that travel in big groups and like off-roading, Drive 4G-M (470108) is known as the best RV cell phone booster available for purchase.
weBoost Drive 4G-M (470108) supports AT&T, T-Mobile, Straight Talk and similar mobile carriers so its compatibility is sublime.
Thanks to a combination of low profile and mini magnet mount, it’s a breeze to position and set up Drive 4G-M (470108) of weBoost.
Thus, the installation of the weBoost booster only takes a couple of minutes and could be done with basic tools.
After Drive 4G-M (470108) is in place, it requires little care from users so feel free to dedicate your attention to more pressing matters.
As for affordability, the cell phone signal booster for camping from weBoost is economical and that lets people squeeze it into their spending plan without problems.
As proof of confidence, weBoost offers those that pick up its signal booster a ninety-day money-back guarantee and a two-year manufacturer warranty.
In the case that you want to have something to count on if things go wrong, you should add Drive 4G-M (470108) to your shortlist.
Pros
- Rugged
- Installation is child’s play
- Marvelous signal coverage
Cons
- Overheat on occasions
- Several units arrive with missing components
5. weBoost Drive 4G-X OTR (470210)
Why We Love It:
Sturdy and stable, weBoost Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) is held in high esteem by numerous RVers from novices to veterans.
Being engineered with state-of-the-art amplifying technologies, Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) significantly boosts cellular signals in its vicinity.
As a result, with the weBoost booster on your rig, you could say goodbye to signal-related issues while traveling.
Moreover, OTR (470210) of weBoost Drive 4G-X happens to be an omnidirectional model so its signal coverage is excellent in a wide range of conditions.
Featuring a weather-resistant construction, the booster from weBoost superbly deals with outdoor elements and holds together well over time.
So to full-time RVers that travel year-round and value longevity, Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) is essentially the best cell phone booster for RV.
Upon arrival, weBoost Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) comes with all the components and hardware which speed up the setup process.
The booster of weBoost is certified by the FCC too so you can put it to good use anywhere you go.
Introduced at a price that the average RVing enthusiasts could accept, Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) of weBoost is relatively affordable.
Regarding post-purchase support, Drive 4G-X OTR (470210) is blacked with a thirty-day money-back guarantee as well as a two-year warranty that speaks volumes about its quality.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Simple to set up
- Fantastic adaptability
Cons
- A number of users complaint about rust
- Particular components should be strengthened
6. SureCall Fusion2Go
Why We Love It:
If all you need is a no-nonsense booster, it’s strongly recommended that you check out SureCall Fusion2Go. As a plug-and-play model, the cell phone signal booster made by SureCall could be positioned and installed in a blink of an eye.
Besides that, Fusion2Go works with all mobile carriers so regardless of what carrier your devices use, it would provide you with improved signal reception.
The extended coverage of SureCall Fusion2Go permits it to accommodate devices of lots of users at once as well.
From dropped calls to slow data speed, practically every trouble caused by poor signal should go away if you put Fusion2Go on your RV.
After it’s set up properly, the cell phone booster of SureCall is going to take in and increase the strength of existing cellular signals.
Naturally, SureCall Fusion2Go is often deemed to be the top choice for owners of recreational vehicles that favor connectivity.
Though it’s indeed a bit pricey compared to its contemporaries, Fusion2Go is still a good buy to people that have money to spend.
Those that decide to buy Fusion2Go would receive a thirty-day guarantee and a three-year warranty from SureCall.
Hence, if your SureCall Fusion2Go fails due to the manufacturing defects, you could claim a replacement free of charge.
Pros
- Enduring
- Installation is intuitive
- Commendable signal strength
Cons
- Slightly costly
- Less than ideal quality control
7. SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0
Why We Love It:
So you really like the idea behind Fusion2Go of SureCall but desire more capabilities? Then you would definitely come to like SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0.
Integrating 2XP technology, the cell phone signal booster of SureCall is twice as strong as its competitors on the market.
Because of that, if you travel with Fusion2Go 3.0, you could achieve and maintain outstanding signal reception even as you put considerable distances between your RV and the cell towers.
As SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0 is made for 4G LTE and 5G, it matches the needs of typical RVing enthusiast vehicles and it should stay that way for years to come.
In the case that you opt to make a long-term investment, the signal booster from SureCall is your best cell phone booster for camping.
Since it’s an omnidirectional model, Fusion2Go 3.0 requires no adjustment for optimal performance.
That means after you manage to secure SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0 in place and run the cable, it’s good to go.
Possessing high-quality materials and a resilient meta housing, the signal booster made by SureCall could take on pretty much every hardship associated with RVing.
Unsurprisingly, Fusion2Go 3.0 earns various compliments from RV communities around the globe for its endurance.
Fusion2Go 3.0of SureCall is compatible with popular mobile carriers, as a result, it rarely causes compatibility issues in use.
Pros
- Small build
- Excellent compatibility
- Durable and adaptable
Cons
- Certain units arrive without manual
- Users notice inconsistencies in coverage and strength
8. HiBoost C27G-5S
No products found.
Why We Love It:
Able to deliver enhanced in-vehicle signal reception to an assortment of devices concurrently, HiBoost C27G-5S is well-received by RVing enthusiasts worldwide.
Being a 4G LTE model that is backward compatible with 2G and 3G while also forward compatible with 5G, the HiBoost cell phone booster gives a splendid account of itself in a multitude of applications.
Furthermore, C27G-5S supports Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint and AT&T which is why compatibility is rarely an issue in the course of operation.
One interesting thing about the C27G-5S of HiBoost is that it incorporates manual as well as automatic gain control.
Thus, with the cell phone signal booster made by HiBoost, applying changes to gain is a walk in the park. Aside from that, equipped with catchy indicator lights, C27G-5S lets you grasp its working status at a glance.
If issues occur, the alarm indicator of HiBoost C27G-5S would light up to warn you so you could come up with timely corrections.
Owing to its low profile, the cell phone booster of HiBoost boasts superb handling and needs just minutes to install.
C27G-5S comes with installation hardware included, therefore, it’s unnecessary to spend money to pick up extra hardware.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Responsive tech support
- Steady signal reception
Cons
- A couple of units appear damaged on arrival
- Delivery service still something to be desired
9. weBoost Drive X RV (471410)
Why We Love It:
Assembled with extended range in mind, Drive X RV (471410) of weBoost could reach cell towers at great distances and keep up a strong signal reception.
Hence, Drive X RV (471410) is capable of reducing dropped calls, increasing audio quality, accelerating upload/download speed and so on.
The booster of weBoost excels at reducing cellular battery consumption too and that makes it the best cell phone signal booster for camping to those that seek more talk time.
Last but not least, weBoost Drive X RV (471410) meets all FCC standards so it causes no interference to other devices.
Featuring a modular design, the weBoost signal booster can be set up using several mounting configurations with variable height levels.
As a result, it’s a breeze to adapt Drive X RV (471410) to particular arrangements.
Besides that, Drive X RV (471410) of weBoost happens to be 5G ready so it’s going to remain usable in the next decade and beyond.
The cell phone booster from weBoost is compatible with major mobile carriers including AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, U.S. Cellular, …
About installation, the absence of tools in the setup process of Drive X RV (471410) ensures that you could get it up and running in moments.
You don’t have to drill holes to secure the hardware so if you like to preserve the surfaces and finishes of your RV, the weBoost booster is for you.
Pros
- Tough
- Uncomplicated installation
- Signal coverage is first-class
Cons
- A few RVers complain about getting used units
- Packaging is barely acceptable
10. SureCall Fusion2Go Max
Why We Love It:
If you prioritize both reach and speed once it comes to signal boosters, you should consider taking a close look at SureCall Fusion2Go Max.
Thanks to the use of ERT and 2XP technology, the in-vehicle cell phone booster from SureCall guarantees stable and fast connections even in areas with the weakest of signals.
After you add Fusion2Go Max. to your rig, poor reception and associated issues would be things of the past. Moreover, SureCall Fusion2Go Max works with all devices and could be paired with hotspots.
Distributed with all components in a kit, Fusion2Go Max takes minutes to install and could be done by everyone.
Following installation, the SureCall booster needs minimal attention from owners of recreational vehicles in use.
Because of that, SureCall Fusion2Go Max is well-liked by people that like to use set-and-forget equipment. Finally, as Fusion2Go Max comes at an economical price, there is really no need to cut back key expenses in order to afford it.
The booster made by SureCall is backed with a thirty-day money-back guarantee and a three-year manufacturer warranty.
Needless to say, for cautious RVing enthusiasts that want to have reassuring post-purchase support, SureCall Fusion2Go Max is the best cell phone booster for RV of its type.
Pros
- Nice price
- Well-made and versatile
- Hassle-free handling
Cons
- Users occasionally report fluctuations in performance
- Mediocre packaging
Choosing The Best Cell Phone Booster For RV: Key Criteria
Apart from common-sense factors such as ease of installation, since we are dealing with this type of device, you can expect to come across quite a few technical specifications when comparing different RV cell phone signal booster models. Below are the most important criteria that you absolutely must pay attention to in order to pick the best cell phone signal booster for camping that suits your needs.
Signal Boosting Strength
Since the purpose of a cell phone signal booster is to improve cellular service, the signal-boosting strength of a model largely determines its values.
Cellular signal strength is measured in decibels (dBs). Gain in signal strength that a cell phone signal booster kit can achieve is stated as a positive number. In most cases, the dB gain should not be lower than 7dB.
It is important to note that dB gain is however not linear, but exponential. In fact, if the gain does up by +3 dB, the signal strength doubles. This means +23 dB gain will give you double the power of a +20 dB gain, although the gap between +20 and +23 might not sound like a lot.
For you to get the general idea on how strong a booster is, in the case of cell phone boosters for RV, a +23 dB gain means the original signal strength improves by 200x, while a +50 dB gain translates to 100,000x signal strength increase. Meanwhile, in-building wireless multi-device boosters can deliver up to +72dB, which translates to a signal increase of 16 million times, which is required to ensure strong signal for many devices within a larger space.
The largest signal gain you can typically find with a signal booster for recreational vehicles is +50 dB gain. This threshold is in accordance with the limitations set by certain industries, with the purpose of minimizing the risk that over-amplified signals might interfere with cell towers.
You could get a general picture of the signal strength of particular boosters by checking out their owner’s manual. Since quite a few manufacturers routinely overstate the specification of the models they release, it’s also wise to glance over reviews of fellow RVers.
Also note that another factor that contributes to a booster’s signal gain is the frequency bands’ range that your chosen signal booster can support. The best cell phone booster for RV are usually capable of covering up to 5 bands and supporting 4G.
Coverage Area
Having strong reception is nice but if that is only achieved by standing next to the booster, you would likely experience substantial inconveniences and frustrations. Because of that, it’s widely advised that you pay attention to the specific size of the area that you want to cover and while you’re at it, check the layout of your vehicle, too.
To determine the level of power that you need for the booster, you need to consider the size of the coverage area as well as the strength of the outer signal that you typically get, based on where you usually travel. Furthermore, it can help you determine the type and number of internal antennas you need to achieve desired signal strength and coverage.
If you own a small rig then standard models should suffice and if your rig happens to be huge, stick to more powerful boosters.
External Signal Strength
Another vital factor to consider when trying to pick a booster that will deliver strong enough signals for your devices is the external signal strength that it receives. To be fair, the performance of your cell phone booster relies upon the strength of the existing external signal it is boosting; if the external signal is way too weak to begin with, even after being amplified, it might not meet your needs.
If you often get a weak external signal, such as in the case that you often travel in rural, remote areas, it is advisable to go for a more powerful signal booster with high signal gains. Otherwise, if you get strong signals most of the time, then a strong booster might be an unnecessarily expensive overkill. Instead, a moderately priced signal booster capable of supplying lower gains in signal strength would be a wiser investment.
In addition to where you’re traveling, do note that the signal strength you get is also largely dependent on where your RV is parked, or the surrounding landscape when your RV is in motion. If you’re surrounded by tall structures like mountains, you will most likely get weaker or interrupted cell phone signals.
Compatibility
A lot of boosters on the market only work with specific mobile carriers, thus, it’s essential that you give compatibility some thoughts. If you value your peace of mind and flexibility, you can look among the many models that are compatible with various carriers. The best cell phone boosters for RV in fact are compatible with all four major service providers in the US, AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint, as well as tens of regional carriers.
A high-end booster is nothing more than a paperweight if it’s used alongside phones that feature unsupported carriers, thus when looking for the best RV cell phone booster, make sure you get a model that is compatible with your existing cell service provider. As mentioned above, getting a model supplied by and working with a specific cell service provider usually delivers quite reliable service at an unbeatable price, thanks to the magical workings of competition.
Antenna Features
Cell phone boosters consist of an outer antenna, which sends and receives a signal from the closest cell tower, and an inner antenna, which transmits the improved signal to your devices. There are low-gain and high-gain antennas, and depending on where you usually travel, it’s helpful to check and assess the features of each one to ensure that you are getting the right cell phone booster and you’re not overpaying for what you really need.
If you want a booster with a wider range, go for high-gain antennas, which usually work at 5dBi or higher. These high-gain antennas are effective in rural areas, because the distance is the primary factor that weakens the signal in these outstretched areas.
Otherwise, you may opt for low-gain antennas, which are especially useful in mountainous terrains and in general, in areas with a lot of physical barriers that block or impede signals.
Ease Of Installation
Embracing RVing means you must address an assortment of issues so you definitely don’t have all day to set up and adjust a booster. Therefore, it’s suggested that you steer clear overly complex models with draw-out installations.
Again, the owner’s manual would provide you with details about the ease of installation. In the case that the setup process of the cell phone booster you like appears to be too complicated, just move on to other models.
In most cases, be aware that the length of the coaxial cables affects where you should install every component of the booster. This cable connects the two antennas with the signal amplifier. You should opt for models with longer cables as this allows for ease and flexibility during the installation process, especially if you have a large rig.
If your model is a cradle booster, note that the unit houses the amplifier as well as the inner antenna inside the cradle. Therefore, in this case, what you have to take into consideration is the length of the coaxial cable designed for the outer antenna only.
Price
Cell phone signal boosters for recreational vehicles come at numerous price points which is why models exist for every budget. Nevertheless, you should keep in mind that there is a link between price and quality.
Though there is no need to empty your wallet on premium grade boosters unless you have sophisticated demands, it’s a good idea to steer clear of dirt-cheap models.
Boosters with unbelievable low prices usually have mediocre performance as they use subpar materials to keep the manufacturing cost down.
Types Of RV Phone Boosters
Depending on your budget and needs, you can choose between two types of cell phone boosters for recreational vehicles: cradle boosters and wireless boosters. While wireless boosters are surely more convenient, they are more expensive, so which type if better really depends on your budget and usage requirements, which depends on how many devices you will need to be servicing at the same time.
Cradle Phone Boosters
Basic and practical, cradle phone boosters prove to be well-suited for RVers that have a limited number of devices.
In use, models of the type could accommodate and amplify the signal reception of one connected phone at a time. A smartphone or a wifi hotspot device has to be placed on, or in the “cradle” to get signal enhancement, thus the name of this type of system.
All cellular cradle boosters have adjustable rubber or plastic arms that lock in a wide range of device sizes from the smallest flip phone to the largest smartphone such as the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G (6.7 inches).
A cradle booster supplies a lower amplification compared to other types of cell signal booster, but is still perfectly serviceable on the one device that you connected to it.
Moreover, cradle phone boosters have small builds and incorporate mounting hardware so they could be set up anywhere in RV. They are significantly cheaper as well, thus might make a sensible purchase depending on your needs.
Wireless Phone Boosters
The cradle design clearly has its limitations, which are resolved with the more advanced wireless cell phone boosters for RV. In general, for large-party RVing, the wireless phone boosters clearly outmatch their cradle counterparts. They are more expensive, but justifiably so.
Designed and built for modern requirements, wireless phone boosters deliver increased availability of cellular service to everyone in its vicinity wirelessly, thus you can enjoy strong signal no matter where you are inside your rig, even outside. Needless to say, models of the type earn a shower of praise from those that wish to increase the signal reception of various devices simultaneously.
3G Booster Kit
This type of cell phone booster for RV is ideal for use on small 3G networks and old phones, and typically works more effectively in smaller rigs, especially when providing amps for the whole vehicle. These models require permanent mounting on your rig.
4G and LTE Booster
This type of RV cell phone booster was born later and more advanced, and is designed to suit today’s technology. 4G is currently the most popular network technology in developed countries, and the one that your phone or mobile device is most likely using on a day to day basis. Most phone carriers today have started to move to LTE, which offers even faster speed.
Depending on how long your RV is, you can decide whether you need to use relay units to ensure the best signal in every nook and cranny of your vehicle. With this type of boosters, you can choose to have it as a permanent addition to your rig.
As said, most cell phone boosters for RV these days max out at +50dB gain, which is by far sufficient for use in recreational vehicles. However, if you have special needs, you can consider other types of cell phone boosters below that can deliver a much larger gain in signal strength compared to the typical cell phone signal booster for camping, or the type that is designed for use in a more limited space and thus delivers smaller signal gains.
Analog Booster
Also referred to as a bidirectional amplifier or a broadband amplifier, this is the most basic cell phone signal booster you can find in the market today. An analog booster can be used for all frequencies and cell phone carriers. Regarding signal strength gains, you can expect the analog booster to provide around +63 dB to +70 dB.
This kind of booster comes with a separate outside antenna. It is also available in a kit, which you need to assemble and install.
Smart Booster
In comparison to the analog booster, the smart booster boasts of a higher gain, around +100dB, so it might be strong enough to use in your home or a space larger than your recreational vehicle.
Another thing that makes smart boosters superior to their analog counterparts is that it works as a digital booster. This means a smart booster not only boosts signals but also ensures that the amplified signal is “cleaned” prior to broadcasting it again, thus ensuring crystal clear and uninterrupted sounds, even in the case of obstacles that impedes or interrupts signals.
Another advantage of this type of cell phone booster is that it does not need to be installed, as it is typically available in a compact kit wherein the outer antenna is a component of the booster box.
On the downside, it should be noted that smart boosters are carrier-specific and operate at certain frequencies.
Consumer Signal Booster
For smaller spaces, like cars and trucks, or smaller minivans or travel trailers, you can also opt for a consumer cell phone signal booster. This type is the easiest to install, and is typically delivered in a plug-and-play variety.
Top RV Cell Phone Booster Brands
All in all, the worth of a typical cell phone signal booster for camping largely depends on your budget and specific needs. However, getting a model from a well-regarded manufacturer that gets positive reviews is always a safe bet, in case you don’t want to spend a lot of time doing research, If so, you should remember the following names:
weBoost
Known for always keeping up with the latest technologies and production techniques, weBoost creates superbly functional RV cell phone boosters that never fail to please. It’s one of the many reasons that weBoost products always dominate this market and often only compete against themselves.
weBoost is the name that always appears more than once in all RV cell phone booster reviews on the planet, so you know you will be getting great value for money. If you favor reliability and adaptability then weBoost is going to be your best bet.
SureCall
As a long-established brand with significant experience, SureCall knows how to assemble products that meet the expectations of customers. In addition to its innovative designs, SureCall offers lifetime support with warranties on all their products. This type of service isn’t common and should be something that you take advantage of as a customer.
Unsurprisingly, SureCall is held in high esteem by countless RVers, novices as well as veterans.
Proutone
With a user-oriented mindset, Proudtone receives lots of compliments from people that desire no-nonsense and convenient signal boosters.
Models made by Proudtone give a splendid account of themselves in a wide range of settings and require minimal attention in the course of operation.
King
Often considered to be one of the leading manufacturers once it comes to signal equipment, King is the top choice for RVing enthusiasts that want versatile and long-lasting boosters. Upon purchase, all of King’s cell phone boosters for RV come with excellent warranties, which speaks volume about their product quality and durability.
SolidRF
SolidRF’s cell phone boosters for RV all meet the latest certification standards in the industry, and are compatible with the four largest carriers in the US — AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint — as well as more than 90 regional carriers. This means superb functionality and compatibility, so you will always enjoy strong signals wherever you go.
The brand also makes high quality boosters for businesses and home offices, and is known for its top notch in-building cellular amplifier called SolidRF SpeedPro.
HiBoost
As a leading manufacturer in the arena of cell phone signal booster for camping, Hiboost offers a 3-year warranty, 30-day money-back guarantee and lifetime US-based technical support for all products, which shows how confident the manufacturer is in their products.
Hiboost offers two types of cell phone signal booster: one with smaller dB gain for use in smaller vehicles such as passenger cars, vans, SUVs and trucks, and another series for larger RVs and trailers.
Models from the brand are all FCC certified and work with all US and Canadian carriers without monthly subscription or recurring fee. Hiboost is also the first to provide a signal supervisor app, an all-in-one assistant for remote control and easier installation for all Hiboost users.
How To Install A Cell Phone Signal Booster In An RV
The installation process varies depending on the type of cell phone signal booster and the specific model that you get. Make sure to closely follow the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, the process looks something as follows:
- Using the 3-way mounting hardware, attach the spring mount external antenna to the ladder on the back of your rig. If you don’t have a ladder, find a place on the roof of the RV where it is not obstructed in any direction.
- Take the cable attached to the antenna and run it into the RV. Drill a hole if there isn’t any opening to run the cable through.
- Find a place to mount the amplifier that can be reached by the antenna cable. A cabinet could work, but it will need a power source close by.
- Run the antenna cable to the amplifier and connect it to the outside antenna port.
- Mount the amplifier and attach the coaxial cable to the inside antenna port.
- Run the cable to the spot where you plan to affix the antenna, that is the area that needs better signal or where you’ll often be using your devices.
- Attach the indoor antenna and aim the front of it toward the area that needs boosted signal.
- Plug the power supply into a cigarette lighter and the amplifier. Now you’re done.
FAQs About RV Cell Phone Boosters
1. How many devices could wireless boosters support at once?
Technically, wireless cell phone boosters don’t have a limit in terms of number of devices that they can support. In most cases, though, the best cell phone booster for RV typically can support several simultaneous connections regardless of the carrier. So as long as the devices stay in the coverage of the boosters, their signal reception would be greatly enhanced.
However, note that the connection you will receive will also be determined by the outer signal’s strength prior to boosting the signal. If the existing outside signal is already strong, then more simultaneous connections will be more easily supported. On the other hand, a weak outside signal means the booster can reliably provide strong enough signals to less devices at the same time.
2. Is it possible to improve WiFi connection with cell phone boosters?
In the case that the WiFi network on your rig relies on cellular signals like LTE, 3G, 4G, … you should be able to increase its connectivity with cell phone boosters. The reason is simple: the boosters just take incoming cellular signals and proceed to amplify them so if your WiFi network utilizes compatible signals, they would see noticeable improvements too.
3. Can I use signal boosters alongside mobile hotspots?
To put it plainly, cell phone boosters would continue to work without experiencing issues after RVers turn on mobile hotspots. In fact, the boosters could even increase the signal strength and coverage of the hotpots.
4. Should I buy boosters from online retailers?
If you prefer to compare multiple models and get yourself the best deal, feel free to place your order online. That being said, as a precaution, it’s strongly recommended that you prioritize popular retailers such as Amazon and Walmart.
Amazon in particular also features the broadest range of customer reviews that’ll provide you with essential insight into each product. These reviews will be pivotal in this process and end up making your decision much easier.
Camping World is another website that many budget campers recommend checking out before buying your product elsewhere. This site offers a decent selection and reasonable costs on various camping items such as RV cell phone boosters. Plus Camping World sometimes has great deals, with which you can enjoy prices below what you’d normally see on Amazon.
If you’re looking to buy at a store, Best Buy is a great place with helpful customer service, if you’re willing to pay more for this perk.
You can also find other in-depth reviews and buyer’s guides on best RV tire pressure monitoring system, best RV backup camera, best TV for RV, best portable satellite dish for RV, best RV TV antenna, best Wifi boosters for RV, best RV stereo, best pet temperature monitor for RV, best RV GPS, best RV thermostat, best RV security system, best trailer brake controller and best TV mount for RV in RV Electronics category where we provide you the handpicked list of top-rated products on the market with specific reviews, pros and cons to help you easily choose the best products for your needs and preference.
I have used cell phone boosters for two months at an RV campground in Tombstone, Arizona, where AT&T and Verizon service were marginal. The signal was boosted enough to enable me to work remotely through Remote Desktop and also download large data files. It works for stationary use and in motion. It is also capable of supporting several devices without compromising the fast network speed that it can provide. In addition, it’s compatible with almost all carriers and provides excellent cellular coverage.
The SureCall worked much better than expected and boosted a very weak signal to LTE on Verizon. We camp a lot and while deep in National Park, it won’t get a signal, we have been pleased with getting enough service in most places to be able to at least text or call someone. Our first unit got zapped in a power overload, and we could tell this cell phone booster was missing. Glad to have it back. Worth the investment to have cell service while traveling.