signal in the New Forest

familyfitz

Hi

Just wondering peoples experience of mobile signal in the New Forest area as off camping there in summer.

Have 3 contract but also O2 PAYG phones within family so wondering if these will be any good for calls and texts.

Also wondering internet reception (3G?) as have internet access on my 3 contract but also, should that be deemed to be rubbish, wondering about one of these PAYG or 30 day dongle things (note how technical I am so please be gentle!!).

Any advice welcomed.

Sara

Jon_01

We've been to the New Forest many times. Almost no signal any where once you get in side (no masts and none likely ever to be put up).

You may get a signal close to the edge and where it's flat, but that's only about 50%.

_Andy_

Only have experience of TM in the NF and that was weak at best. Don't recall getting 3G at all.

familyfitz

As I was expecting, having had quick scan of coverage maps but thanks for first hand confirmation.

At end of day, happy to have internet free experience (will hope get VIP Next slot before going!) but is nice to be able to keep in touch via text - will just have to cycle to the edges:rotfl:

hunkyidol

Hi, I live a few miles from the Forest, I used to be on 3 and service is very very weak. I occasionally managed to pick up 1 bar by manually selecting 3's back up network, enough to get text messages.
As for T-Mobile, that is who I am now with and it's a little better that 3, again depending on where abouts in the forest you are.

I hope you enjoy your trip anyway, regardless of coverage

familyfitz

Thanks hunkyidol.

Yes, I will definately enjoy my break even with little coverage on phone - it is nice to have it, particularly as I have internet within my contract this year, but by no means essential. Had just thought I would be able to keep track of emails coming through as some useful ones do go to junk and get deleted within timescale we are away.

To be honest (& embarrassed to say) the dongle was only being looked at as a back up if I hadn't managed to order with a VIP slot in the Next sale before going - yes very sad but as I stock up 'big time' I had started looking at that the option. I am still hoping i'll be able to deal with that before going tho.

So, I WILL and AM really looking forward to the hol regardless of coverage - cant wait for a fortnight of camping in the fresh air (well with a flysheet over me at least!)

nsabournemouth

I live just down the road and the signal is a bit hit and miss.

I'm on o2 and the GF is on Orange and when we visit we both struggle to get reception.

As you would imagine the trees and dips prevent the signal getting through. Even the main drag running along the Forest and Ringwood has black spots.

Enjoy your stay.