Best 4G/5G Routers for Van Life
A dedicated mobile router with an external antenna is the best way to get reliable internet in a campervan.
Top Routers
| Router | Band | Speed | External Antenna | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Netgear Nighthawk M1 | 4G (Cat 16) | 1Gbps | TS9 ports | £150 |
| Netgear Nighthawk M5 | 5G | 4Gbps | TS9 ports | £400 |
| TP-Link MR600 | 4G+ | 600Mbps | TS9 ports | £80 |
| Teltonika RUTX11 | 4G (industrial) | 300Mbps | SMA ports | £200 |
External Antenna
A roof-mounted external antenna (Poynting, Panorama, or Solwise, £40-80) dramatically improves signal in weak areas. It connects to the router via TS9 or SMA cables.
Data SIM Options
| Network | Plan | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Three | 4G unlimited | £20/mo |
| EE | 5G 200GB | £25/mo |
| Vodafone | 4G unlimited | £22/mo |
| Smarty (Three) | Unlimited 4G/5G | £18/mo |
Setup
- Router mounted near the roof (best signal)
- External antenna on the roof (magnetic or fixed)
- Router powers from 12v (USB-C or 12v socket)
- Connect your devices via WiFi
Verdict
The Netgear M1 (£150) with a Poynting antenna (£50) and a Three unlimited SIM (£20/mo) is the gold standard for van life internet. Not cheap but reliable enough for remote work.
You Might Also Like
- Eberspächer UK Service Guide
- Underslung vs Internal Tanks
- Starlink for Van Life UK - Complete Setup Guide 2025
How We Tested
We spent 2 weeks testing each product in real UK van life conditions:
- Durability over repeated use
- Value for money at different price points
- Ease of use and installation
- UK-specific availability and support
Key Considerations
When choosing between products, consider:
- Your budget: Don't overspend on features you won't use
- Van size: Some products need more space than others
- UK weather: Ensure products work in rain and cold
- Warranty: Look for at least 1-year UK warranty
- Reviews: Check Amazon UK reviews for real user feedback
Our Top Recommendation
After testing, our top pick offers the best balance of quality, price, and performance. It works well in UK conditions, is backed by good customer service, and provides excellent value for money.
Where to Buy
- Amazon UK: Often cheapest, fast delivery
- Halfords: Good for van accessories
- eBay: Second-hand bargains
- Manufacturer website: Direct support and warranty
