Going off-grid does not at all mean going without internet - as seen with our founder, Craig who frequently does Zoom calls from his off-grid cabin! There are a few options people use to get the internet off grid. For some, there are rural providers you can get in touch with, and they can help with wireless set-ups for use in mobile situations, like in caravans. Some off-gridders have gotten very excited about Starlink, the satellite internet from SpaceX. A lot of people just recommend getting a good mobile plan and hot-spotting off your phone—that's what Craig does and it works great for him. Then again, some people don't want to access the internet when they're off-grid, and it's very easy to escape!
Working from Home, Online: Going Off-Grid
Working from home for off-gridders works the same way as in the suburbs. You've got the internet and power. You've got your laptop on charge, and can use the phone as a hotspot for the internet. It's very possible. One of our customers, Karen, has been working from a caravan for the last five years, making money from Youtube videos and selling graphic designs. She uses a portable internet connection from Wireless Nation, which gives her a stronger and more reliable connection, so she can happily live off grid and still get work done.
Take Your Wifi With You! from Wireless Nation on Vimeo.
You can work from home in the typical sense, but you can also make a living doing typically off-grid type things - some off-gridders embrace the lifestyle and earn money by selling eggs or other things produced on their land.
About 10 years ago, all you could get an incredibly expensive USB wifi extender you could plug into your laptop. Now, a mobile phone and a hotspot is all you need to get online. Some places will send you a WiFi box for your router, but you don't need anything special to get online.
Weekend Adventures: Staying Connected to the Internet Off Grid
These days it's incredibly simple to get on the internet. Even in the middle of nowhere you'll often still have cell service. It can be a little finicky, especially in valleys, so knowing where your local cell tower is will be helpful. There's no difference these days in getting internet whether you have a hard connection or get it on your phone. It's just as easy to get away on the weekends and stay connected.
Getting the internet off grid is possible - you'll just have to consider getting an unlimited data plan on your phone. If you're ready to plan going off-grid on the weekends or start living off-grid full-time, find the right GridFree DIY solar panel set-up that fits your lifestyle. Not sure where to start? Contact our friendly team with your specifics and get started going off-the-grid.
Photo by Standsome Worklifestyle on Unsplash
