Working remotely in an RV as a full timer or weekender can have its up and downs. The thought of typing away in the great outdoors can be a pleasant one, but it may not always be the case. Read on to learn how you can get things done, so even you can put your feet up at the end of the day.
Laptop
The best type of laptop when working remotely in an RV
It’s a good idea to have a decent laptop. Something comfortable to type on and has a battery that can last a few hours without needing to be plugged in. When shopping for a laptop, look for ultra-portables, or laptops that can last 6-10hrs or more on a single charge.
Woman working remotely in an RV
Sure your RV has electrical outlets built in, but if your not setup at a campsite with power feeding your RV, the last thing you want to do is have your work session cut short right before you finish, or worse yet, drain your the battery in your RV, leaving you stranded. Ultraportable laptops are designed to last hours before the next charge. A good idea would be to refrain from playing loud music or long videos on your laptop. You can also set your screens brightness lower to really make it last.
Internet Connection
Most campsites have free Wi-Fi available. It may require calling them to find the password if needed. In general Wi-Fi can be pretty handy…. but only when it’s working. As you have more and more outings at various RV friendly campsites, you’ll come to realize how critical this can be.
There could be instances where:
- you can connect to the Wi-Fi, but the Wi-Fi isn’t connected to the internet
- it’s working but there are too many campers connected
- it’s working but its bogged down with streaming
- the Wi-Fi is not working at all and tech support will be a few days
Wi-Fi is awesome… when it’s working.
Plan ahead and don’t rely on the Wi-Fi of others. There’s nothing more frustrating when trying to send that important document, and the Wi-Fi at the campsite can make up its mind. Check your cell phone and see if you have the ability to create your own hotspot. This hotspot will enable you to connect your laptop to your cell phones Wi-Fi signal. If you are unsure if you do, contact your cell carrier and discuss your options.
Workspace
Working remotely in an RV has its challenges
Motorhomes are not as big as a house. Space is limited and it’s easy to get distracted in tight quarters.
- Choose the Right RV
When picking out an RV to rent or purchase, consider one with space to have a dedicated work area. If this is not available, consider choosing an RV with separate sleeping quarters. So your table in the kitchen area (which most likely converts to a bed), won’t be needed in the wee hours. Our RV rentals have ample space for working remotely. - Outdoor Workspace
You’re in an RV, why not enjoy that morning cup of coffee and read those emails outside? A low beach chair will allow you to relax with each sip. A small knee-high folding beach table is a nice contrast to the regular height of the inside RV table. The contrast will give your back a break from the office height furniture, and force you to move about when transitioning. Extend that overhead awning, layout an outdoor matt, and breath in that fresh air. The keywords here are comfort and relaxation, and productivity. - Steering Wheel Desk
Steering wheel tray
If your RV is full and outside isn’t an option, a steering wheel desk tray might do the trick. It’s basically a piece of plastic large enough to hold a laptop that has hooks, grooves or cutouts that allow you to temporarily hand it on your RV’s steering wheel. The weight of the tray and your laptop keep it in place. Keep in mind to NEVER have it attached while driving. Other than that, it’s quite a clever item when workspace is a scarcity.