Many of us use our computers or laptops to access email and pay bills while on the road. We also use our computers to stay in touch with loved ones back home. You probably already know what Wi-Fi is; it's a way to connect to the internet using a wireless signal. It provides internet access from the convenience of our RV. You will be able to access Wi-Fi at all but a few of the campgrounds while on the Alaska Trek. But, there are some things you should know.
When I first started traveling to Alaska, there were no campgrounds with Wi-Fi and only a few that provided phone connections so that you could use a modem to access the internet. Now Wi-Fi is available at all of the campgrounds except for a few. Wi-Fi is also free at the campgrounds where it is available (true as of the writing of this document, but things change).
You should know that the Wi-Fi in Canada and Alaska is much like campgrounds in the "Lower 48". It is usually unreliable and slow and may not be accessible in your RV, depending on where your RV is parked. Often the campgrounds are dependent on outside help when there are problems with their Wi-Fi, so don't count on a rapid solution to problems.
Experts tell us that Wi-Fi is safe to use because the wireless signal is encrypted. An additional level of security is provided when the URL (web address) makes use of HTTPS. Make sure you are using this additional level of security by looking for the lock symbol and the HTTPS in your browser.
There are many public hot spots like Starbucks, most Safeway stores, McDonalds, libraries, etc. that can provide Wi-Fi when you can get it at the campground. If you have an Android smart phone or tablet, there is another solution for you. Most smart phones can be turned into a hot spot. It uses your phones signal to access the internet and creates a Wi-Fi hot spot that you can connect to with your computer. It works just like a campground Wi-Fi, but it is broadcast from your phone. Look in your phone's settings for the hot spot.
NOTE: Be sure that data roaming is available on your phone plan. If not, you can rack up a VERY LARGE phone bill before you get back home.
Wi-Fi is an international standard. If your computer works with Wi-Fi in the US, you will have no problems with Canadian Wi-Fi.
When I first started traveling to Alaska, there were no campgrounds with Wi-Fi and only a few that provided phone connections so that you could use a modem to access the internet. Now Wi-Fi is available at all of the campgrounds except for a few. Wi-Fi is also free at the campgrounds where it is available (true as of the writing of this document, but things change).
You should know that the Wi-Fi in Canada and Alaska is much like campgrounds in the "Lower 48". It is usually unreliable and slow and may not be accessible in your RV, depending on where your RV is parked. Often the campgrounds are dependent on outside help when there are problems with their Wi-Fi, so don't count on a rapid solution to problems.
Experts tell us that Wi-Fi is safe to use because the wireless signal is encrypted. An additional level of security is provided when the URL (web address) makes use of HTTPS. Make sure you are using this additional level of security by looking for the lock symbol and the HTTPS in your browser.
There are many public hot spots like Starbucks, most Safeway stores, McDonalds, libraries, etc. that can provide Wi-Fi when you can get it at the campground. If you have an Android smart phone or tablet, there is another solution for you. Most smart phones can be turned into a hot spot. It uses your phones signal to access the internet and creates a Wi-Fi hot spot that you can connect to with your computer. It works just like a campground Wi-Fi, but it is broadcast from your phone. Look in your phone's settings for the hot spot.
NOTE: Be sure that data roaming is available on your phone plan. If not, you can rack up a VERY LARGE phone bill before you get back home.
Wi-Fi is an international standard. If your computer works with Wi-Fi in the US, you will have no problems with Canadian Wi-Fi.
Adventure Treks, LLC
Copyright © 2020, All rights reserved.