If the open road is calling but you need to stay connected, take note: SpaceX has launched a new service that will bring roaming internet coverage to anyone living their best RV or van life.
Starlink uses satellite internet coverage to bring connectivity to remote areas, allowing people with work-from-anywhere jobs to become digital nomads. Typically, cell phone towers provide an internet connection in such areas, but the coverage is spotty at best, which is a problem when you need to be on an important conference call or check in with your sick mom.
The service provides high-speed, low-latency internet for large vehicles including campers, RVs, and vans. Coverage at launch includes most of the western U.S., with more-remote areas in the eastern half the country coming in 2023. It also includes most of Canada, Mexico, Western Europe, and southern Australia, with Africa, South America, and parts of Asia on the docket in the future.
Starlink doesn't come cheap: You'll need to pay a one-time hardware fee of $599, which includes a satellite dish and all the other equipment you need to get online. After that, the service costs $135 a month, but it can be paused as needed, so you'll only pay when you need it and it's available — you'll need a clear view of the sky to connect.
Starlink is hitting the road, but it may also soon hit the waves. The cruise line Royal Caribbean is working on a deal to add the service to its fleet of ships. There has been no timeline for when or what the cost would be to passengers, so stay tuned.
