Australia is a big place to tow a van. Between towns, and at plenty of free camps and national parks, the signal drops to one bar or disappears. Inside a caravan or motorhome it is worse, because the aluminium or steel body blocks what little signal there is. Here is how a vehicle signal booster helps, where it doesn’t, and how to choose one.

What a caravan signal booster does

A booster kit has three parts: an outside antenna on the roof, a booster unit inside, and an inside antenna. The roof antenna picks up the weak signal that your phone can’t reach through the walls, the unit amplifies it, and the inside antenna repeats it through the van. Calls stop dropping and 4G data becomes usable.

What it can’t do

  • It can’t create coverage. If there is no signal at all on the roof, a booster has nothing to work with.
  • In those places, satellite messaging on newer phones or a satellite device is the backup for emergencies.
  • Coverage maps from Telstra, Optus and Vodafone show where signal exists. Plan overnight stops near the edge of coverage, not deep outside it.

Which bands matter on the road

All three networks have switched off 3G, so you need a booster that covers 4G. In regional Australia, the low bands do the heavy lifting: 700 MHz for Telstra and Optus, and 850 MHz for Telstra and Vodafone. 1800 MHz adds capacity near towns.

The kit we recommend for vans

The Go-Voyager Signal Booster (AUD 799) is our vehicle kit. It boosts 700, 850 and 1800 MHz, so it covers the main 4G bands of Telstra, Optus and Vodafone, and it runs from the vehicle’s 12V supply. It suits caravans, motorhomes, campervans, 4WDs and work utes. See all vehicle signal boosters.

If you are setting up a permanent site, like a farm cottage or a shed at the block, a home kit is a better fit. The 4G & 5G Signal Booster, 300 SQM (700/1800 MHz, AUD 523) suits a cabin or small house. Our rural signal booster guide covers fixed homes in more detail.

Fitting it to a caravan or motorhome

  • Mount the outside antenna on the roof, clear of solar panels, air conditioners and the TV aerial.
  • Run the cable through an existing roof gland or vent to avoid new holes.
  • Wire the booster to the 12V system. Most owners switch it off when stored.
  • Place the inside antenna near where you sit or sleep, as far from the roof antenna as you can.

Tips for better signal at camp

  • Park on higher ground or in the open, away from cliffs and dense trees.
  • Check the signal on the roof, not just inside, before you set up.
  • Turn off Wi-Fi on your phone when testing, so you see the real mobile signal.

Delivery and costs

Delivery is free and takes about 7 working days; kits ship from China. Any import taxes or duties are paid by the buyer. Prices above are the shop prices on the day this guide was written; the product page always shows the current price. Questions about your van? Ask us in the chat box.

FAQ

Does the Go-Voyager work on Telstra, Optus and Vodafone?

It boosts 700, 850 and 1800 MHz, which are the main 4G bands of all three networks.

Can I use it while driving?

It is built for vehicles and runs from 12V. The driver should never handle a phone while driving.

Will it help at a remote free camp?

Only if there is some signal on the roof. If your phone shows nothing even outside, a booster won’t help.

Cell Booster Australia