Keeping connected while working on the road

For drivers, staying connected on the road supports wellbeing – helping reduce stress, boost focus and maintain a sense of connection to colleagues and family.

In today’s busy times, managers and employees need to maintain clear lines of communication. For those working on the road, staying connected isn’t just practical; it helps support wellbeing and a sense of connection, no matter where work takes you. What are the best options available today?

Smartphone connectivity

So much of our personal and business life flows through our phones, and with cars that support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it’s easier than ever to stay connected without distraction.

From calling friends and family to streaming your favourite podcasts or accessing real-time navigation, your phone helps reduce the sense of isolation that can come with long hours on the road. Set it up as a personal Wi-Fi hotspot and you’ll keep other devices like tablets and laptops online too, ensuring you can reach out, relax, or catch up whenever you need. Just make sure your data plan can keep up with the way you connect.

Fixed mobile hotspot

For drivers who are in and out of their vehicles all day, having to constantly reconnect a smartphone can feel disruptive. A dedicated wireless hotspot device gives you a simpler, more seamless way to stay online. Left plugged into the vehicle, it creates an ‘always on’ Wi-Fi zone, just like you’d expect at home, helping reduce the sense of isolation by keeping you in touch with colleagues, friends and family whenever you need. Every major network provider offers mobile broadband products, and if your vehicle has USB ports, compact USB hotspot devices make it even easier to stay connected without interruption.

Embedded with OBD-II

The deepest integration of all is to purchase a connectivity device that fits your On Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) port, usually located under the dashboard (check the owner’s manual for the exact spot).

Beyond providing a reliable hotspot for your devices, this setup can be a mind relief while working away from home; OBD-II connectivity allows remote GPS tracking, allowing you safety and peace of mind when travelling alone in remote areas, and offers vehicle diagnostics, fuel and telemetry data through smartphone apps. With a SIM card, your OBD Wi-Fi hotspot runs on the data plan of your choice.

Tablet mounts

For full-time drivers, mounting a tablet in your vehicle can be a smart way to stay in touch while on the road. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto limit which apps you can use, and smartphone mounts can be fiddly at a glance, a larger tablet screen offers a more intuitive way to navigate, manage client information, or even share a much-needed video call with family during a short break.

This kind of accessibility can help reduce feelings of isolation, while also offering reassurance that you’re “there” – even when you’re not physically present. You’re still connected and part of life outside of the vehicle. Just remember, that technology should support your work, not distract from it. Never interact with your tablet or smartphone while driving – your focus must stay on the road.

^Disclaimer

^{Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.}