RV & Boat Remote Access On the Go
Whether you're running security cameras to check in on your RV or boat while out exploring, desiring remote access to home automation systems, checking in on pets, or checking in on a home you've left in storage - remote monitoring while using mobile internet has some unique challenges.
In this guide, we cover the considerations for assembling a mobile internet setup to support remote access and things to keep in mind when selecting your remote monitoring gear to be compatible with sometimes finicky mobile internet options.
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Why RV or Boat Remote Monitoring
Many in our audience live in their RVs or boats full-time and may find it rare to be absent from their nomadic dwelling for long. Part-timers and weekenders tend to put their rigs in secure storage when they are not in use, frequently without any connection to power to allow for remote monitoring.
While the ability to remotely monitor your RV or boat is not a huge concern for some people, it is a critical concern for others with specific needs, desires, and challenges.
Here are some of the major reasons why you may want an RV or boat remote monitoring system that works over mobile internet:
Pets
Those of us with furry companions may need to leave them unattended in the RV or boat for a period of time.
The ability to check on pets, or at least check on the conditions inside the RV or boat (such as the temperature), can enable us to comfortably leave our furry family behind with less fear for their safety.
Many pet owners worry that their air conditioner or heater might quit working while they're away. Remote temperature monitoring allows them to leave the pets in charge at home for a while with less worry.
For pets that don't take separation well, remote monitoring can also allow you to check up on them (and even talk to them remotely!) to keep them from destroying your furniture, barking at neighbors, or even chewing their way outside.
You can even get a remotely controlled robotic feeder to dispense meals or treats in your absence for the really pampered pet.
Security
Security is often the primary reason for setting up a remote monitoring system.
Full-timers, in particular, could have their whole lives in their RV or boat, including valuables and irreplaceable family heirlooms.
Even part-timers may have expensive gear aboard that might prove tempting to a thief and expensive to replace.
Remote monitoring provides some additional security in the form of the deterrence that comes from visibly mounted cameras. It also allows you to respond to an alert so that you can contact the authorities and potentially catch thieves or vandals.
Surveillance of the interior and/or exterior of a boat or RV can provide some peace of mind when you need to leave your RV or boat in an unfamiliar or dodgy area. It might even give you an advanced alert if a potential intruder is approaching while you're inside.
Some camera monitoring systems even have two-way audio - allowing you to warn off an intruder or let them know that you've called the authorities.
If your RV, Van, or boat is stolen, remote monitoring gear can assist with recovery, especially if it has integrated GPS functions.
Boat/RV Systems Monitoring
A more advanced remote monitoring system can tell you if your RV or boat's systems are functioning properly and safely.
One example is monitoring an RV or marine electrical system. Monitoring power systems can prevent you from accidentally draining your battery bank while you are away. It can also help you monitor your solar harvest.
You might even be able to remotely start a generator or air conditioner when needed or even retract an RV awning before an approaching storm.
And on a boat - getting alerted to a bilge alarm going off can literally save your boat from sinking!
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Check out the Topics Covered in the Member Section:
The Challenges of Remote Monitoring over Mobile Internet
Many remote monitoring solutions assume a stable & and fast home internet connection - but mobile internet can present obstacles here.
Mobile Internet Considerations
From selecting your mobile internet gear for the best stability and selecting appropriate data plans to signal-enhancing strategies - this section goes over considerations and recommendations for short-term monitoring to long-term storage.
Monitoring System Considerations
Practical guidance for selecting gear that will better mesh with the realities of a mobile internet setup.
Specific Monitoring System
In this section, we evaluate some popular remote monitoring gear used in RV and boat applications, including Arlo, Blink, Eufy, and more.
Summary
Remote monitoring may seem intimidating at first. For many people, their van, RV, or boat contains their whole life, and the desire to protect valuables, heirlooms, and especially furry companions is especially strong.
Fortunately, keeping track of everything has gotten a whole lot easier and simpler in recent years. With some planning and knowledge, you can successfully monitor your valuables and rig to give you peace of mind and the ability to react quickly when something bad happens.
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