TravlFi vs. Starlink: A Full-Time Vanlifer Compares Cost, Speeds, and Coverage

Two Popular Internet Solutions, One Traveler’s Perspective 

As someone who works full-time while living on the road, having reliable internet is non-negotiable. Whether it’s uploading blog posts, leading virtual fitness sessions, or managing deadlines for multiple publications, staying connected isn’t just a luxury—it’s how I make my living. I’ve experimented with multiple RV internet solutions, and after a year of travel, I landed on a four-part system that covers all of my needs. Of that system, two parts do the heavy lifting: my Starlink Mini dish and TravlFi XTR Pro 5G router. 

Before starting vanlife or full-time RV travel, you may think that just one internet device will function adequately in all scenarios. Depending on your travel style, that may well be. But as someone who spends most of my time away from developed areas and frequently boondocks in the forest for days on end, both cellular internet and satellite internet have become essential. 

To help you decide which type of mobile internet you need—or determine if you need both—I’ve created this guide to TravlFi vs. Starlink based on setup, coverage, cost, speeds, and use cases.

TravlFi Overview: How It Works

TravlFi offers mobile internet solutions designed specifically for RVers, vanlifers, and digital nomads. Using cellular networks, TravlFi devices connect to nearby towers for internet access. With coverage across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, TravlFi provides flexibility for regional travelers without the need for large, cumbersome equipment. Because TravlFi works on multiple major carrier networks, the devices provide more consistent coverage compared with a hotspot that only pings towers from one specific carrier. 

Starlink Overview: How It Works

Starlink operates differently, using a constellation of low-earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed internet to almost any location on the planet. With coverage expanding globally, Starlink is a strong choice for international travelers or those frequently off-grid. However, its dish setup and reliance on a clear view of the sky can pose challenges for mobile users in heavily wooded areas or urban settings.

Learn more: Cellular internet versus satellite internet

TravlFi vs. Starlink: Setup

Truthfully, neither system requires difficult setup. Both companies offer internet solutions with simple, straightforward setup processes and more complex options for permanent mounting.

TravlFi Setup

TravlFi setups range from simple plug-and-play devices like portable hotspots to more advanced 5G routers that can be installed directly into your RV. The Journey1 Hotspot is as easy as charging the device and turning it on, while the 4G XTR router has an optional mounting kit that requires running wires and bolting a bracket. The 5G router requires a very simple setup that consists of screwing on antennae and, optionally, installing the device into a wall. 

I use the XTR 5G router and, due to my van’s setup, opted not to permanently mount it anywhere. I’m limited on space, so I store the device out of sight when not in use, and screw on the antennae and plug it in when I need it. It takes all of two minutes—easy. It generally takes the router two to three minutes to establish a connection and get going.

Starlink Setup

Your Starlink setup experience will depend entirely on the type of Starlink you purchase. Setup for the original Starlink involves a bulky dish that requires careful placement to maintain a clear line of sight to satellites. The newer mini dish option, which is what I have, features improved portability but still requires some planning. 

Setting up involves finding a spot with minimal obstructions (which, for me, usually means climbing onto my roof) and using the Starlink app to align the dish. This process can take five to 10 minutes per location—plus another 15 to 60 minutes to fully analyze obstructions and determine satellite locations—so TravlFi does have a slight advantage here if you don’t permanently mount your dish. 

TravlFi vs. Starlink: Coverage Maps

For travelers based in the U.S., both Starlink and TravlFi provide extensive coverage. 

TravlFi Coverage

TravlFi leverages most major cellular networks to provide coverage across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. While the TravlFi coverage map extends throughout most of the U.S., connectivity is most robust in most urban and suburban areas, while remote regions without strong cell signals may experience weaker connectivity.

In my experience, TravlFi still works in many rural areas, though a cell signal booster makes a big difference. In some cases, when I am in a very rural and forested area (where Starlink won’t work), my TravlFi device picks up a weak signal without a booster. But when I plug in my cell booster and adjust the antenna, the signal will generally increase by one or two bars. I’ve even been in situations where the router picked up zero bars, and adjusting the cell booster gave me one bar—enough to at least send iMessages and map directions.  

Starlink Coverage

The Starlink coverage map has grown exponentially in the last few years. Starlink’s satellite-based system offers nearly global coverage, making it ideal for international adventurers and travelers spending time in very remote areas. Unlike cellular networks, Starlink can operate in places with little to no infrastructure, provided there’s a clear view of the sky. This makes it a better choice for international and off-grid travelers, though it’s not a perfect system. 

Namely, Starlink requires an unobstructed sky. It won’t work in heavily treed areas, within canyons, or in the presence of tall buildings. I love my Starlink Mini for stays in remote desert areas and on beaches—it’s absolutely an essential item for anyone traveling through Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, a popular winter destination for vanlifers—but it’s usually not even worth setting up when in the forest. 

TravlFi vs. Starlink: Cost

Though there are differences in pricing between these two internet setups, what you ultimately pay comes down to the specific device and plan you decide to go with. 

TravlFi Devices and Plans 

TravlFi is the easy choice for budget-conscious travelers. The devices present a lower upfront investment, and TravlFi offers more plan options at different rates (starting at an impressive $19/month). 

TravlFi offers several devices, the three main being:

• Journey1 LTE Hotspot: a portable device with no installation required ($199)
• Journey XTR 4G Router: an LTE router capable of supporting more connected devices and speeds up to 300mbps ($279)
• Journey XTR Pro 5G Router: a more advanced option, ideal for those who need consistent connectivity while moving. ($449)

TravlFi’s plans are straightforward, with no contracts. They offer the following for 4G data: 

• 2 GB/month ($19/month) 
• 10 GB/month ($29/month) 
• 25 GB/month ($49/month) 
• 50 GB/month ($69/month) 
• 100 GB/month ($89/month) 
• 200 GB/month ($109/month) 
• Unlimited: $129/month) 

For 5G data: 

• Unlimited (speeds up to 100mbps): $129/month
• Unlimited Max (speeds up to 200mbps): $159/month

For all plans, you can pause when needed and reactivate with no fee.

Starlink Devices and Plans

Starlink requires a heftier upfront investment for almost all devices compared to TravlFi. Here’s a breakdown of the current offerings: 

• Starlink Standard Kit: $349 
• Starlink Mini: $599.99
• Starlink Flat-Mount High-Performance Kit: $2,499 

For travelers, the Mini is the best investment, by far. It saves a ton of space compared to the Standard Kit that many vanlifers started out with. In fact, having the Mini is probably the one and only reason I’m glad that I waited as long as I did to start vanlife. 

As for plans, I’m only going to cover the Roam plan options, since Starlink is rapidly phasing out the capability to use residential plans for a mobile lifestyle. You’ve got two straightforward options if you are based in the U.S.: 

• 50 GB/month: $50/month  
• Unlimited: $165/month 

I started with the 50-gigabyte plan and burned through it like lightning, even though I also used my TravlFi. That’s the reality of being a digital nomad, so unless you’re only working part-time, you’ll likely need unlimited data. 

TravlFi vs. Starlink: Speeds 

In general, upload and download speeds depend on your device and your location. 

TravlFi Upload and Download Speeds 

TravlFi’s speeds depend on cellular network strength and the device you use. The 4G hotspot, for instance, supports speeds up to 150mbps, while the 5G XTR Pro router supports impressive speeds up to 3.6gbps. Factors like proximity to cell towers and network congestion can affect performance. In my experience, TravlFi speeds are adequate for streaming, browsing, and most work tasks, though video call performance can suffer if you’re on the fringes of cellular coverage.

Starlink Upload and Download Speeds

When Starlink has a clear view of the sky and is aligned, speeds are lightning fast. In incredibly remote areas, Starlink allows me to take video calls with zero lagging. Speeds regularly exceed 200 mbps for downloads. While impressive, performance suffers when any obstructions are present or if the dish is misaligned.  

TravlFi vs. Starlink: Use Cases 

Having used both TravlFi and Starlink consistently for several months, it’s easy for me to pinpoint when each one is best used. Based on my experience, here’s how the two options compare in real-life scenarios:

• Campgrounds and urban camping: TravlFi is the better choice for travelers hopping between areas with strong cellular coverage. Its portability and ease of setup are unmatched.
• Off-grid adventurers: Starlink excels for those spending extended time in remote areas. The global coverage ensures connectivity even when cellular networks fall short.
• Budget-conscious travelers: TravlFi’s lower upfront and monthly costs make it a solid option for casual or part-time travelers.
• Heavy data users: If you’re streaming or uploading large files regularly, Starlink’s speeds are hard to beat despite the higher cost.

FAQs

Is Starlink worth it for RVers?

Starlink is worth it for RVers who need high-speed internet in remote areas. However, the higher cost and setup requirements may not suit all travelers.

Does TravlFi work internationally?

TravlFi works across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico but is not designed for global use like Starlink. Keep in mind that Starlink still requires regional plan switching, so signing up for Roam in the U.S. doesn’t necessarily cover you in South America, Asia, Europe, or other regions. 

Which is faster: TravlFi or Starlink?

Starlink is generally faster than TravlFi, particularly in remote locations with clear skies. In urban areas and forested areas, TravlFi is likely to beat out Starlink due to network obstructions. 

TravlFi Takeaways 

• TravlFi offers affordable, portable solutions for regional travelers.
• Starlink delivers unparalleled speeds and global coverage for off-grid explorers.
• Setup and mobility are easier with most TravlFi devices.
• Your choice depends on travel style, budget, and connectivity needs.