1 of 2
Perry Mack
2 of 2
Perry Mack
Words and photos by Perry Mack
Our mobile devices become more valuable to us every day through the apps that entertain, engage, and inform us. All of these are especially important to us as RVers as we most definitely 'cut the cord' by living and exploring on the road. Apps provide us with safety features, including maps, weather reports, and road conditions that are key to navigating through a successful and enjoyable adventure, background information, such as the history, flora, and fauna of where we're visiting, and even park and attraction hours and amenities. Sharing photos and videos of our adventures when we are away is also important because it helps us to stay connected with friends and family.
In many instances, cell reception hasn’t quite kept up with our urge to explore and live off-the-grid (but not too far or too isolated). Cell signal boosters have been around for a while but the latest device – the weBoost Drive Reach is the most powerful and versatile booster currently allowed by law. It is a multi-user unit that is compatible with all carriers in North America and is capable of a max gain of 50dB, making it the strongest mobile signal amplifier on the market.
When you purchase the device, the box will include the Drive Reach Signal Booster (11.7 w x 15.8 l x 4.3 h cm, weighing 854g), with a mounting plate that attaches with screws or Velcro, an 8.5 cm tall magnetic mount outside antenna with 305 cm wire, an inside antenna also with 305 cm wire, a power supply with 360 cm of wire, an installation guide, and Velcro and adhesive strips to mount the interior antenna.
The installation is a relatively straight forward five-step process, although placing your wires will differ from vehicle to vehicle. The guide is clearly written and easy to follow with some suggestions for placing the exterior antenna on cars, trucks, and SUVs. Mounting the device in your Class A may require some creative thinking.
We also noticed that if you can utilize the Velcro and magnetic mounts, you may be able to transfer the device from one vehicle to another in a matter of minutes, which makes it an even better value if you drive two or more vehicles. If you do use a more permanent antenna and power mounting options, WeBoost sells additional accessories separately so you only need to move the device itself.
We mounted the Drive Reach in our Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited, which has a removable plastic roof, so we made use of the provided adhesive patch to mount the antenna on the roof as the magnetic mount had no effect. To its credit, it has been in place for over a year and is still holding strong.
Here in British Columbia, reaching a spot with a weak cell signal is a simple affair requiring a modest 45-minute drive into the mountains to some of our favourite, lake view boondocking locations.
The Drive Reach often boosted our bars up a significant level. The antenna in the Drive Reach works best with a metal roof so you can expect even better results. The device can mean the difference between making a call (or sending a text) or not communicating with the outside world - rather critical if the call is to request roadside assistance – from friends or CAA. In some locations, it also meant the difference between suffering through a 3G versus having a fast 4G signal, which is critical for achieving usable internet access. It will also amplify the new 5G cell signals when they become available.
The device will work in your RV, however, keep in mind the interior antenna range is designed to cover the inside of a passenger vehicle and so it’s unlikely to completely serve a large 5th wheel or Class A. It also will not penetrate the walls a great distance if you happen to be sitting outside next to the fire with a beverage.
It sells for roughly $700 CAD at weBoost.ca and other retailers and is certified by Industry Canada. You can also find it at 4WDsupply.ca where it has been as low as $595.
We found the Drive Reach to be an excellent accessory on our travels. There is no set-up required once it is installed, making it very user-friendly for anyone and any mobile device in your vehicle. Enhancing our cell connection benefits us in every way we use our mobile devices. Given the new affordability of unlimited data plans in Canada, we expect to use our mobile devices even more for work, play, entertainment, and safety as we travel.