Do You Need More Signal At The Campsite?

Cell Yes I Do!

What’s the worst thing about the great outdoors? The bugs? The scarcity of a hot shower? Eating hot dogs again? No, it’s not having cell reception when you need it. While there are plenty of valid uses for your phone in the wild (Can I eat this mushroom? What’s the weather going to be like tomorrow? Is a bug bite supposed to look like that?); we all know what you’re using your signal for: hijacking the social media feeds of your loved ones with photos of your campfire cooking. No judgement here, I can barely cook in a full kitchen.

Keep your friends and family up to date with your adventures, and I guess have your phone when you need it for emergencies with a cell extender.

I Don't Even Know How My Phone Works

Don't worry, you're not alone. For something as commonplace as a cell phone, it seems that very few of us really understand what's going on with them.

In order to properly appreciate the value of a cell extender, it helps to understand how a cell signal works. Your phone communicates with a cell tower (often multiple) and that tower amplifies and sends that signal to the tower closest to your recipient, and that tower relays the signal to them. The further you are from a tower or the more obstacles in between you and the nearest tower, the worse your signal will be. These obstacles can be as simple as trees, or even just the topography of the land around you. All of this happens in milliseconds, and it’s important to understand.

Note: This is a significant simplification of this process, but the basics are all you really need here.

Cell signal is measured in decibels (dB). The higher the measurement is, the better the signal you'll get. Generally speaking, -50 dB is considered a perfect signal, and -110 dB is not reasonably usable. Note: These measurements are negative, so be sure to double check when analyzing your current signal.

So What Does a Cell Extender Do?

Think of a cell extender as a megaphone for your cell. Basically it amplifies the outgoing signal and makes it easier to pick up by the nearby cell towers, thus giving you a clearer and more high-quality connection to your tower. That tower then sends the signal to the recipient’s tower and the process continues as normal.

To see this article in video form, check out our video above!

The signal from your cell phone is sent to a tower, which communicates with the tower the recipient is connecting to. If there is too much space, or too many obstacles between you and a tower, it could lead to bad signal.

Do I Need a Cell Booster?

While everyone could benefit from increased access to their friends, family, and the collective knowledge of the internet, there are a few folks that can really get the most from a cell signal booster. Let's take a look at some of those people.

Casual Camper

Having the internet at your fingertips will allow you to look up all sorts of information that could save you in a pinch.
Maybe you didn't bring children or dogs with you, having access to your phone will allow you to keep in touch in case of emergency.
There are even extender options for your vehicle, great for tent campers!

Mobile Workforce

Get your smartphone properly connected, and make sure you have a steady signal for meetings, collaboration, etc.
Explore the great outdoors, and save yourself the hassle of coming back to a thousand 'critical' emails.

Permanent Outdoorsperson

You spend weeks at a time RVing or camping, or maybe you are living in your RV full time.
Keeping in touch with friends and family is that much more critical when you so rarely are able to see them.

But I Still Have Questions!

If you identify with one of the examples above, or maybe you realize the benefit of increased signal in your own situation, we're sure you have plenty of specific questions. We have compiled a list of common questions that we have seen (and that we have asked ourselves) so that we can shed as much light as possible on the benefits (and drawbacks) of cell signal boosters.

This seems too good to be true. How well do they really work?

Like we mentioned above, cell signal is measured in decibels, and while every product is different, the Surecall Fusion2Go 3.0 RV boasts a 20 dB improvement in signal (remember: the closer the signal is to 0 dB, the better). However, it is important to note that you must have a signal in the first place to boost. If your phone has no signal at all then a booster will not help you. But if you are seeing a weak or unusable signal, this could be the boost you need.

How do I install the booster in my RV? Will I be able to do it myself?

Every product will be different, and you'll be able to get detailed, product-specific instructions in your owner's manual. But here are some general steps to follow:

Make sure to register your device with your service provider. Most service providers consent to the use of boosters on their network, but to be safe you should always consult your provider first.
Mount the outside antenna. Make sure to mount the antenna above the roof line of your RV. For best results, mount it at the highest point on your roof in an upright position.
Mount the inside antenna. The location of your receiver should be away from any excessive heat, direct sunlight, or moisture.
Connect the outside satellite with the inside receiver. It is advisable to do a "soft install" where you run the wires through a window or existing hole in your RV exterior to verify successful operation.
Connect power and verify successful operation. Plug the interior adapter into the nearest power outlet. From here you should be ready to go, but verify any status lights or messages with your installation instructions in your owner's manual to make sure everything is installed correctly.

Does a cell booster work with every carrier?

The short answer is yes. The long answer is that every carrier has the right to decline usage of a signal extender, although they rarely do. Make sure to check with your service provider and confirm that they will consent to the usage of a signal extender before making a purchase or installation.

Can I connect multiple devices?

Yes, once the signal extender is installed, any cell signal in the area will connect through it.

Is the signal strong enough to be a wi-fi hotspot?

Unfortunately, there isn't a clear answer here. Your phone's wi-fi hotspot speed will vary depending on how strong your signal was before installing the signal booster, and how much your signal is boosted. Connecting won't be a problem, and you'll likely be able to complete quick searches and check email without problems. But if you're looking to stream movies you may run into some slowdown depending on your connection.

The Bottom Line

At the risk of stating the obvious, more signal is better. You can work more effectively, speak with others more easily, have consistent access to critical information, and yes, post enough pictures of your campfire food to single-handedly take over the feeds of all your loved ones. If after reading this your first thought was, "Sheesh, I would love to have one of those for my next camping trip!" then click here (or the button below) to browse our selection of cell signal boosters, and the benefits of reliable signal will be loud and clear no matter where you are.

About Jacob J

To say that my path to etrailer was complicated would be an understatement. I have always had a passion for helping others, and throughout my education and career as a social worker or community liaison, I have loved writing as a hobby. When I found etrailer and was given the opportunity to turn something I enjoyed doing into a career that helped people access information and products they need to live the best life they possibly could, I was instantly interested.

I am a lover of the outdoors, have been loading and unloading trailers since I before I was old enough to drive them, and have spent my recent years working in and around the automotive industry. And I am excited to share all of the things I have learned (more often than not the hard way).

I consider myself a perpetual student, and etrailer gives me the opportunity to learn something new every day and share my findings with others. Which is something I am extremely grateful for. I look forward to continuing to help people find the answers they need to make memories for a lifetime.

Related Products

Shop Cell Signal Boosters

Shop Wi-Fi Routers and Boosters

Shop RV Electronics

Written By: Jacob J

Last Updated: 11/22/2022

Explore Expert Info

on RV Antennas

Videos

for RV Antennas

Help Articles

for RV Antennas

Expert Answers

for RV Antennas

SureCall Fusion2Go RV Cell Phone Signal Booster Review

Hollywood Racks RV and Camper Bike Racks Review - 2022 Jayco Greyhawk Motorhome

Review of SureCall Cell Phone Signal Booster - In-Home Cell Phone Signal Booster W/ Antenna - SC23MR

Roadmaster FuseMaster Fuse Bypass Switch Installation - 2013 Honda CR-V

Roadmaster Battery Charge Line Kit Installation - 2014 Honda CR-V

B and W Turnoverball Underbed Gooseneck Trailer Hitch Installation - 2019 Ram 2500

Patriot Hitches Adjustable Drop Hitch Receiver Adapter Review

Curt Front Mount Trailer Hitch Installation - 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty

K-Source Manual Extendable Towing Mirrors Installation - 2014 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Progressive Dynamics Pure Sine Wave Inverter Install - 2007 Four Winds Dutchmen Motorhome

Kuat Hitch Bike Racks Review - 2017 Ford Explorer

B and W Hitch Receiver Reducer Sleeve Review BWRHXA2182

What is Overlanding? How to Start your Overlanding Journey

Choosing the Right Suspension Kit for Your Truck and Trailer

Best Air Bag Suspension (2023)

How Much Solar Power Do I Need For My RV?

Hard Tonneau Covers vs Soft Tonneau Covers

Top Weight Distribution Hitches for a Buttery Smooth Ride

Stability Control for Heavy Duty Vehicles

RV Propane Troubleshooting | Common Propane Issues and How to Solve Them

Installing an Electric Brake Controller on 2007-2013 GM Full-Size Truck or 2007-Present GM SUV

Fifth Wheel Trailer Hitch Information and Installation Tips

Best 2020 Heavy Duty Trucks for Towing a 5th Wheel

4 Steps to Choosing Your 5th Wheel Pin Box

Converter Upgrade from WFCO to Charge Lithium Batteries

The correct replacement panel for you is the Progressive Dynamics RV Power Control Center with AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger - 35 Amp #PD4135K. As you can see this is an 35 amp panel just like your WFCO-8735-P which means it is a safe…

view full answer...

The SumoSprings Solo Custom Helper Springs item #SS28UV would be a great option for support on your 2022 F-150. These have a 1,500 lbs capacity and fit both the 2WD and 4WD models. I really like SumoSprings over other suspension options because of…

view full answer...

Can Dot 5 Brake Fluid Be Used with Rebuilt Kodiak 225 Brake Calipers?

The Kodiak Disc Brake Caliper 3,500 lbs to 6,000 lbs #KDBC225S and similar finishes will require the Kodiak Disc Brake Caliper Rebuild Kit for 3,500 lb to 6,000 lb Trailer Brakes #KDBC225KIT which will give you all the seals, bolts, bushings, and…

view full answer...

Bike Rack Cover Recommendation for Use with a Thule Doubletrack Platform Rack

Your best option for a bike cover would be the Swagman Bike Cover #S24FR. This cover is restricted to only RV applications. Rv's block most of the wind and keeps the cover from ripping. It's water resistant and has a large zipper to make it…

view full answer...

Procedure To Follow Before Flat Towing 2013 Honda CR-V Behind A Motorhome

Yes, according to the owner's manual for the 2013 Honda CR-V you start the engine before shifting through the gears. I have attached the procedure below to follow carefully to avoid transmission damage. If you shift from reverse to neutral and…

view full answer...

SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0 RV Cell Phone Signal Booster Compatibility With Cell Phone Brands

The SureCall Fusion2Go 3.0 RV Cell Phone Signal Booster #SC43MR is compatible with all major North American carriers (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and U.S. Cellular) and with 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G connections so this booster will work with your cell…

view full answer...

How Do I Know What Spacer I'll Need for My 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 W/ A 4" Lift?

For a set of air springs I recommend checking out the Air Lift LoadLifter 5000 Ultimate Air Helper Springs with Internal Jounce Bumpers #AL88288. These springs have a load leveling capacity of 5,000-lbs, an adjustable air pressure range of 5 to 100…

view full answer...

How Far Does the Boosted Signal From the SureCall Fusion2Go Max Cell Phone Signal Booster Extend

The SureCall Fusion2Go Max Cell Phone Signal Booster for Cars and Trucks #SC53MR is not limited to just inside the vehicle. That being said, the signal booster range is more limited (a few feet from the antenna). If you are directly outside the…

view full answer...

The MaxxAir MaxxFan Plus - Smoke #MA00-04500K will work on your fiberglass truck cap, but highway speeds will not allow it to stay open. The remote will work fine from inside you truck cab. If you want to be able to drive the highway speeds, I…

view full answer...

Installation Instructions For The Progressive Dynamics Pure Sine Wave Inverter w/ Transfer Switch

I've attached the installation instructions for the Progressive Dynamics Pure Sine Wave Inverter w/ Transfer Switch - Remote - 2,000 Watts - 12V #PD64FR for you below.

view full answer...

How To Install The Progressive Dynamics Pure Sine Wave Inverter In Your RV

The Progressive Dynamics Pure Sine Wave Inverter w/ Transfer Switch - Remote - 2,000 Watts - 12V Item #PD64FR will pull DC current from your battery and convert it to AC current for when you aren't hooked up to shore or generator power. The…

view full answer...

Where Should Fifth Wheel King Pin Sit in Relation to Axle Centerline on 2004 Ford F250

The exact placement of the hitch will depend on which installation kit is used. Generally speaking, fifth wheel hitches are installed so that the king pin will fall either directly over the rear axle centerline or within a few inches forward of that…

view full answer...