In the world of overlanding, where adventurers seek to explore remote terrains while maintaining a connection to the outside world, Starlink Roam is emerging as an indispensable tool.
This off the grid, go anywhere service offers high-speed internet through a network of low Earth orbit satellites, ensuring connectivity even in the most isolated locations. Is it right for your overland adventures? Let’s get into it.
Staying Connected
The benefits of Starlink for overlanders are significant. Its global connectivity ensures that you remain connected no matter where your journey takes you. The easy setup means you can be online in minutes, a crucial feature for those who need to upload travel vlogs, work remotely, or stay in touch with family.
Being able to stay connected to maping apps such as OnX Off-Road and connected to emergency services in areas with no traditional mobile ervice can be critical as well.
We’ve been using a Gen 2 unit, as pictured in this story. An updated and streamlined Gen 3 Starlink is currently available. Additionally, the hardware is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it perfect for unpredictable outdoor environments. In fact, we’ve seen plenty of Starlinks mounted directly on vehicles such as campers and RVs.
Setting Up
Setting up Starlink is straightforward: plug in the device, point it skyward, and you’re online. The Starlink system consists of the Starlink dish, a router, a stand for the Starlink, a power supply and a couple of cables.
It assembles quickly and easily. It does require power, so power from your vehicle or a power station is a must.
Starlink needs a clear line of sight to the sky and the Starlink App will let you know just where to point its dish for optimum service. The unit comes with plenty of power cord, so getting it into the right position shouldn’t be a problem.
Flexible Service Plan
The flexible Starlink Roam plan allow users to pause and resume the service as needed, catering to seasonal adventurers. For $150 per month, with a one-time fee of $499 for the Starlink Kit, users can enjoy unlimited data, making it an attractive option for those who need reliable internet on the go.
The Starlink Roam service can be paused, so you can acivate it only when you are traveling. It’s worth noting that even if you only need to use it for a few minutes, you will be charged for a full month’s service. That said, to be able to pause the monthly service fee is a huge benefit for those of us that don’t need it daily.
Some Drawbacks
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. An unobstructed view of the sky is essential for optimal performance, posing a challenge in densely forested areas or dense urban environments. Inclement weather can also affect sevice as well.
Moreover, while the hardware is portable, it still requires storage space, which could be a concern for those with limited vehicle space. As with most technology, each generation of Starlink that comes out does get more compact. Our Gen 2 unit is large compared to a Gen 3 unit and an all-new, much smaller, Starlink Mini was just announced not long ago, which may remedy this concern.
Another drawback for some is being “too connected” which brings us to…
Staying Disconnected
Despite its many advantages, the presence of Starlink can detract from the feeling of being truly disconnected from the outside world—a key allure of overlanding.
Many adventurers, while appreciating the ability to stay connected, use Starlink sparingly. They reserve it for essential tasks, ensuring that they still enjoy the sense of isolation and immersion that comes with exploring the wild. Keep those phones stowed away when huddling around the campfire!
Final Thoughts
For overlanders, Starlink is a revolutionary tool that balances connectivity and adventure. While there are considerations regarding cost and setup, the benefits of reliable internet access in the remotest locations often outweigh the drawbacks. For those committed to exploring the wild without sacrificing connectivity, Starlink Roam is a worthy investment.
For more details, you can visit Starlink Roam.
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