Having an internet that works in multiple areas of your park is crucial in attracting younger campers who are looking to stay connected while traveling. With the uptick in travel while “working from home” or on the road during COVID, internet connection is one of the many things that could set your park above others. Providing internet access to your campers is easier said than done. So, below are a few ways to extend your service to all areas of your park while also keeping throttling at a minimum.
Choosing the Right Wireless Extender
Ubiquiti by far has the best reviews, although the price tag is a little higher than others. They do have pods available to scatter around your site. After tethering together, they can create a grid where the service reaches to. They even have a package you can buy to monitor signals at all times and its app will alert you if there are any problems. Total Investment for the seamless wireless extender + 4 pods = approx. $1,000
CC Vector Extended Long Range Receiver is another great option to extend signal for up to ½ a mile. Additionally, the company, C.Crane, offers tech support in the U.S. that is both responsive and helpful. Total investment: $300
Limiting Access to Keep Throttling Low
Limit site access to not allow for streaming of Hulu, HBO, Netflix, and other streaming sites that eat up your bandwidth. Many wireless networks allow you to set up a parent mode which allows you to block or ban sites of your choosing.
Offering Cellular Boosters for Rentals
The last suggestion might cause some campers, especially younger ones, a little distress. So, you can offer campers who are looking to stream while using their data instead of yours, boosters to increase their signal. While cell phone boosters for specific wireless companies such as AT&T and Verizon have cheaper options (Approx. $150), if you are looking to offer it to all customers, despite their service, check out SolidRF. Total investment for 4 is $1,600 but if you rented them out for $20/d, it would take you less than a month to make your money back. If your park already has great cell service, then this is not needed.
Regardless of which route you choose, it is important to pay attention to actual customer reviews and total cost versus benefits. If you use wireless extenders, we would love to hear about them. Let us know by emailing howdy@letsbonfire.com!
