Get Satellite Tv In Your Camper: Easy Installation Guide

If you want to get satellite TV in your camper, you have a few options. You can choose between a mounted antenna or a portable antenna. You can also get a cellular hotspot and Wi-Fi extender. The best option for you depends on your needs and budget. If your camper is your permanent residence, a mounted antenna with a backup cellular hotspot is recommended. If you only use your camper for trips, a portable antenna and a Wi-Fi extender (if you'll be in crowded places) are more suitable.

There are two major satellite TV providers in the US: DISH and DIRECTV. DISH is generally cheaper and easier to set up, but DIRECTV offers more sports coverage. Both providers have pay-as-you-go plans, but DIRECTV requires a two-year contract.

You can also consider other TV options such as over-the-air (OTA) antennas or streaming services.

Portable vs. mounted satellite antenna

When it comes to choosing a satellite antenna for your camper, you have two main options: a portable antenna or a mounted one. Each has its own advantages and drawbacks, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Portable Satellite Antennas

Portable satellite antennas offer the advantage of flexibility. They can be set up and positioned as needed, which is useful if you camp in locations with limited open sky. They are also generally easy to install and set up, often featuring automatic signal-finding capabilities. This means you won't have to spend as much time adjusting and positioning the antenna to get the best reception. Portable antennas are also a good choice if you don't want to put holes in the roof of your camper, as mounted antennas require.

However, one of the main drawbacks of portable satellite antennas is that they can take extra time to set up and pack away, especially if you have to do some trial and error to find the best reception. They may also not offer the same level of reception quality as mounted antennas, especially in poor weather conditions.

Some popular options for portable satellite antennas include:

• Winegard RT2000T RoadTrip T4: This fully automatic antenna works with major satellite services like DISH and DIRECTV. It has a protective dome and can be permanently mounted on the roof of your camper.
• DIRECTV 4K SWM3 Portable Mobile Camping Complete Kit: This tripod model is adjustable and includes everything you need to get started, but it does require an active DIRECTV account.
• Winegard PL-8000 Dish Playmaker Dual Portable Satellite RV TV Antenna: This antenna is omnidirectional and can automatically find DISH HD satellite orbital locations. It has dual coaxial outputs, allowing you to watch different programming on two TVs at the same time.

Mounted Satellite Antennas

Mounted satellite antennas, on the other hand, offer more permanent solutions and are often designed to be more aerodynamic and low-profile. They can provide better reception quality, especially if you invest in a model with a wide and flat surface. Mounted antennas are also less likely to be affected by poor weather conditions.

However, one of the main drawbacks of mounted antennas is that they require installation, which can be time-consuming and may require drilling holes in the roof of your camper. This can be a concern for some campers, as it may lead to leaks down the line. Additionally, mounted antennas may not be as flexible in terms of positioning, especially if you camp in forested areas.

Some popular options for mounted satellite antennas include:

• Winegard Pathway X2 PA6002R Dual Arc Satellite TV Antenna: This antenna uses Dual Arc technology to receive both Western and Eastern arcs, making it suitable for use across the lower 48 states. It has an automatic feature where you input your state, and it finds the best signal for your location.
• KING OA8500 Jack HDTV Directional Over-the-Air Antenna: This antenna provides access to ultra-high frequency and very-high-frequency channels, giving you a wider array of choices. It's easy to rotate and swivel to find the optimal position, but it can't be extended to maximize reception.
• Winegard 8551203.400S White RVW-395 Sensar IV HDTV RV Antenna: This antenna offers long-range receptivity and can be extended for better reception. However, it has an antiquated design and makes a scraping noise when extended.

DISH vs. DIRECTV

When it comes to satellite TV for your camper, there are two main providers to choose from: DISH and DIRECTV. Both offer hundreds of TV stations and coverage in most areas, but there are some key differences to consider when making your decision.

DISH

DISH is known for its competitive pricing and family-friendly channels. They offer a pay-as-you-go program called DISH Outdoors, which is designed specifically for travellers. This program allows you to activate and deactivate your service as needed, in 30-day increments. This is a great option for seasonal travellers who may not need TV service in their camper for several months of the year. DISH also has a plan that allows you to add an RV package for just $5 per month if you already have an active DISH plan at your home.

When it comes to equipment, DISH offers both mounted and portable satellite antennas/dishes. Their satellite antennas are fully automatic, so you won't need to worry about manually pointing them in the right direction. However, keep in mind that most satellite antennas only work while your camper is parked.

DIRECTV

DIRECTV, on the other hand, does not sell satellite antennas or equipment packages for campers directly. Instead, you'll need to go through a third-party provider, which can make the setup process a bit more complicated. DIRECTV also does not offer a pay-as-you-go plan, so you'll be locked into a two-year contract and will need to pay a monthly fee even if you're not using the service.

When it comes to channels, DIRECTV has the edge when it comes to sports. They offer more sports channels and add-on packages, including NFL SUNDAY TICKET. DIRECTV also has exclusive Signal Saver technology, which ensures exceptional signal reliability no matter the weather conditions.

In terms of pricing, both providers have plans that start at around $70 per month, but the overall cost will depend on the specific package you choose.

Both DISH and DIRECTV have their pros and cons, so the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for flexibility and family-friendly content, DISH may be the better option. On the other hand, if sports and signal reliability are your top priorities, then DIRECTV might be the way to go.

Satellite internet

Satellite dishes that connect you to broadband global area networks (BGANs) work well in most remote places. However, some satellite dish-plus-BGAN combinations can be expensive, so it is only recommended for full-time RV users.

• Iridium Go! 9560 Satellite Terminal
• IDirect Internet Access

To access the BGANs, you will need a SIM card. This will tell your satellite antenna which satellite network to connect to, much like your phone connects to a cellular network. The price of a SIM card will depend on the BGAN you use and how much data you need.

For example, here are some options from Inmarsat:

• Up to 492 Kbps (0.492 Mbps) for $125
• Up to 492 Kbps (0.492 Mbps) for $125
• Up to 492 Kbps (0.492 Mbps) for $125
• Up to 492 Kbps (0.492 Mbps) for $125

Mobile hotspots

Smartphone Hotspots

Smartphone hotspots are a convenient and easy way to get Wi-Fi in your camper. Most mobile phone plans include hotspot data at no extra charge. However, hotspot data is usually limited, and you can only connect a few devices. Additionally, using your phone's hotspot can drain its battery.

Mobile Hotspot Devices

Mobile hotspot devices are favoured over smartphone hotspots for campers due to their ability to connect more devices and provide better data allotments. While they are more expensive, they offer a dedicated device that provides better Wi-Fi.

Mobile Carriers and Their Hotspot Plans

When choosing a mobile carrier for your hotspot, consider their coverage area and data plans. T-Mobile has the most comprehensive 5G coverage, with a base plan of $10 per month for 2GB of data. AT&T has the second-best coverage, but its highest-tiered plans are costly. Verizon has the least coverage but offers affordable plans starting at $10 per month for 15GB, however, these low prices are only available to Verizon mobile customers.

Recommended Mobile Hotspot Devices

• Verizon Orbic Speed Mobile Hotspot ($79.99)
• AT&T NETGEAR Nighthawk LTE Mobile Hotspot Router ($249.99)
• T-Mobile MiFi 8000 Mobile Hotspot ($240)

T-Mobile AWAY, 5G for RVs

If you want to bring your home internet connection on the road, T-Mobile offers a 5G solution with its AWAY plan. This plan allows you to take a 5G Wi-Fi gateway with you for $160 per month with unlimited data. There is also a 200GB plan for $110 per month. You can pause the plan during the off-season for a discounted rate of $10 per month. While T-Mobile AWAY is more expensive than a hotspot plan, there are no equipment fees, and it provides faster and better-quality service.

Prepaid Hotspot Plans

For casual campers who only need temporary internet access, prepaid hotspot plans with a mobile hotspot device are a good option. These plans are ideal if you want to prioritize outdoor activities but still need to stay connected.

Final Thoughts

OTA antennas

There are two types of OTA antennas: satellite antennas and digital TV antennas. Satellite antennas are typically roof-mounted, while digital TV antennas are more portable and usually used indoors. If you opt for a portable satellite antenna, you will need to set it up on a tripod each time you stop to camp. This can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you are camping in different locations. You will also need to secure the antenna to your camper to prevent theft.

On the other hand, a roof-mounted satellite antenna is more convenient as it does not require setup each time and is less likely to be stolen. However, you may experience signal loss with a roof-mounted antenna if you park under tall trees or in heavily forested areas. Additionally, having a satellite TV dish mounted on your roof can be expensive.

If you are looking for a more affordable option, digital TV antennas are usually priced under $50 and can pick up TV stations within a 40-50 mile radius. For a wider range, you can purchase a more powerful antenna that can pick up signals from up to 180 miles away.

When choosing an OTA antenna, consider factors such as price, installation, weight, and material. If you choose a roof-mounted satellite antenna, go for an aluminum one as they are sturdier and more durable. For indoor antennas, plastic antennas are a better option as they are lighter and easier to store.

Some recommended OTA antennas include the Mohu Leaf Metro TV, KingPop 4800, Winegard 360+, and Winegard Carryout G-2 Plus Automatic Portable Satellite TV Antenna.

Frequently asked questions