Credit: Starlink
In this article we look at Starlink as an internet option when travelling. This is a question that comes up so often around the campfire and on travel forums: Is it worth getting Starlink? Here we look at the pros and cons, and answer the question. This is written from the point of view of a Toyota Coaster owner but is relevant for all RV, Caravan and Motorhome owners. Embrace the Bus Life and the Van Life!
What Is Starlink?
Before we answer the question “Is it worth getting Starlink?”, let’s look at what it is.
Most of us need access to the internet on our travels. Whether it is to check the weather apps to keep us safe from bushfires and storms, keep us connected to friends and family, watch Netflix, or enable us to earn a living whilst we are travelling – access to the internet certainly comes in handy.
Sure, we can use the mobile data on our phones to access all of the above and more. Let’s face it though, there are some places where Australia’s largest and most reliable mobile network just won’t work. This is where satellite-based internet service providers come in.
Starlink is the name of the satellite-based internet service provided by SpaceX. SpaceX of course is owned by famous entrepreneur Elon Musk. Not only do SpaceX own Starlink, but they are also currently revolutionising space technology with their rockets and spacecraft. Clearly a leader in technology over many forms.
Through their extensive satellite network, Starlink offer high speed, reliable internet to remote areas where traditional mobile technology doesn’t work. This is ideal for Toyota Coaster owners and other travellers who need to access the internet in remote locations. But is it worth getting Starlink?
What Is In A Starlink kit?
When you sign up for Starlink you pay a one off, initial set up cost in addition to your monthly subscription fee. Included in your set up kit is a satellite dish and router that you install yourself. The dish automatically connects to nearby satellites, providing internet access within minutes.
Given this set up cost, is it worth getting Starlink? The Starlink dish is designed to work in all weather conditions which is ideal for the remote locations we get to in our Coaster buses. Whether you are in extreme heat conditions, or in rain or snow, the Starlink is designed to withstand it all.
Is It Worth Getting Starlink For Speed and Performance?
Starlink speed ranges from 100 and 200 megabits per second (Mbps). This speed is fast enough to stream those Netflix documentaries and facetime the family, as well as perform general internet functions such as checking emails and social media and playing games.
Latency, which is the time it takes for data to travel between you and the internet, is low with Starlink—around 20 to 40 milliseconds (ms). This low latency means you get a quicker response, which is especially handy for all the tasks mentioned above.
How Does Starlink Compare With Telstra?
Is it worth getting Starlink as a replacement for Telstra mobile? In cities, Telstra 5G can sometimes reach similar or even faster speeds than Starlink. In rural or remote areas, Telstra’s speeds can drop significantly, sometimes to 5–20 Mbps.
This has a lot to do with the satellites that Starlink employs. They are designed to provide more consistent coverage across remote areas where Telstra’s mobile signal might be weak or nonexistent. So, if you’re parked in a remote camping spot, Starlink will likely give you a better and more stable connection.
In regards to latency and the time it takes for data to travel between you and the internet, Starlink is usually faster than Telstra and other mobile networks if you are in a remote location. Starlink’s latency is usually around 20–40 ms, where Telstra’s latency can sometimes exceed 50 ms. Lower latency on Starlink makes activities like video calls smoother and reduces delays.
What’s The Best Starlink Model For You?
The Starlink Mini is the very latest to hit the market. It follows three generations of full-size models, each one more refined than the last. If you’re looking for a neat, one-piece, compact solution capable of providing all your internet needs then the Mini could be a match made in heaven.
With its built-in router and smaller dish, the Mini and its cable fits easily in a laptop bag. That’s it! The Mini dish and cable weighs only 1.5kg, so plenty to love about that, too! If your Coaster Bus is short on space, it could be exactly what you need.
Another option is the Starlink Gen 3. The dish is a bit bigger than the Starlink Mini and for this reason would suit Coaster Bus set ups that are more permanent or semi-permanent. It uses more power, takes up more space, is more expensive up front, and is more complex to put up and take down every time you move to a new location.
Having said that though, the Gen 3 has a slightly better range and performance than the Starlink Mini. If you rely heavily on the internet for work whilst you are on the road then the Gen 3 might be the best choice for you.
Credit: Starlink
What Is The Best Starlink Plan To Sign Up For?
Starlink’s RV plan (now called Starlink Roam) is specifically designed for people who travel frequently, allowing users to set up internet service on the go without being tied to a fixed address.
Is it worth getting Starlink Roam? Users pay a monthly subscription fee and an initial setup cost for the equipment, with different pricing for fixed locations vs. on-the-go service plans.
As the cost of this plan changes frequently, click here to see the latest prices.
Powering Up My Starlink
One thing that doesn’t change is the need to power your Starlink device.
The Mini comes 12-48V ready which is just another reason to choose this model for your adventures. Whatever source powers your Coaster Bus off-grid life, you will need 25W to 60W available when the Mini is in use.
How Much Data Will I Need In My Starlink Plan?
I find the 50gb plan is more than enough for my needs. That enables me to watch my streaming services occasionally, check social media and my emails. If 50gb isn’t going to cut it, you can purchase additional data. There is also an option to purchase unlimited data which could be useful for all those working remotely.
Is it worth getting Starlink based on the plans available? The best thing about the billing system is that it can be paused whenever you no longer need it and restarted when needed again.
For example, I escape the southern winter by travelling through Queensland for four months. From June until September, Starlink is my supplier of internet on the Roam plan. When I’m home I have a different internet supplier so Starlink is paused until I’m ready to hit the road again.
What Are The Benefits Of Starlink For Toyota Coaster & RV Owners?
Is it worth getting Starlink? In a nutshell, here are the reasons you might want to sign up for Starlink as a mobile data provider:
- Gives you reliable access to the internet in remote locations.
- Enables you to stream movies and video chat in remote locations.
- Enables you to work remotely when off grid.
- Gives you access to mobile apps whilst travelling, such as navigation, travel planning and weather updates.
- Helps you stay safe on your travels by giving you quick access to emergency services when required, especially when camping alone in isolated areas.
- Allows you to stay in touch with family, friends and online communities.
- The dish and equipment are light weight, and are easy to set up and pack down.
- The Starlink equipment is weather resistant, so you don’t need to worry about it being hampered by snow, storms or hot weather.
Are There Any Disadvantages Of Purchasing A Starlink?
As with most things, there are both advantages and disadvantages involved in purchasing a Starlink Mini. Here are the disadvantages that I have identified:
- Initial Set Up Cost. Is it worth getting Starlink given that there is a set up cost? The hardware for the Starlink Mini costs a few hundred dollars up front, which is a cost you don’t have a mobile phone device.
- The monthly subscription fee for the Starlink Mini is higher than what you would normally pay for a mobile data plan.
- The Starlink dish requires power to operate it. Something you have to be mindful of if you are camping off grid.
- The Starlink dish needs a clear view of the sky, which you have to consider when selecting a camping spot.
- The Starlink equipment needs to be packed up and put away every time you move camp.
- Weather interference can occur, even though the Starlink equipment is designed to be weather resistant. Thick cloud cover can cause interference.
- Starlink is still rolling out globally, and there are some areas where service is limited or not available yet.
- Not suitable for heavy usage. Be mindful Starlink is a shared satellite network and the speed can slow down at peak times.
- There may be some additional Starlink equipment costs if you want to invest in tripods or mounts for better reception.
The Verdict: Is It Worth Getting Starlink?
The thing to remember is that Starlink will be successfully providing you with very fast internet service and therefore wi-fi mobile phone connectivity in areas of Australia that are without any mobile signal. That’s a great safety feature in my opinion and worth it for peace of mind. So is it worth getting Starlink? my advice is YES! It is worth it.
Starlink Mini – The Specs
| Environmental Rating | IP67 Type 4 with DC power cable and Starlink Plug/Cable installed |
| Speed | 100 – 200 Mbps |
| Latency | 20- 40 milliseconds |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to 50°C (-22°F to 122°F) |
| Power Consumption | Average: 25W to 40W |
| Input Rating | 12V-48V 60W |
| USB PD Requirement | 100W, 20V/5A Minimum |
| Wi-Fi Technology | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac |
| Generation | WiFi 5 |
| Radio | Dual Band 3×3 MU-MIMO |
| Coverage | Up to 112m2 |
| Security | WPA2 |
| Mesh Capability | Compatible with all Starlink mesh systems *Not compatible with 3rd party mesh systems |
| Devices | Connect up to 128 devices |
| Size | Approximately 30cm x 26cm x 4cm |
