Hanging A Tv In Your Pop-Up Camper

Hanging a TV in a pop-up camper is a controversial topic, as some people believe that camping should be a tech-free experience. However, there are many reasons why people might want to mount a TV in their camper, such as keeping kids entertained with educational programs or having something to do on rainy days. If you're thinking of mounting a TV in your pop-up camper, there are a few things to consider, such as where to mount it, what type of mount to use, and how big the TV can be.

Choosing a TV mount

When choosing a TV mount for your pop-up camper, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide where you want to mount the TV. This will help determine the type of mount you need. If you have limited counter space, consider a mount that can be attached to the wall or ceiling, such as a flat bracket or a desktop TV mount, which can be swung out of the way when not in use. If you prefer to place your TV on a counter or cabinet, a static TV stand may be more suitable.

The weight and size of your TV will also influence your choice of mount. Ensure that the mount you choose can support the weight and size of your TV. Some mounts may require drilling holes, so it's important to check the installation process and decide whether you want a permanent or removable solution.

Additionally, consider the adjustability of the mount. Do you want to be able to adjust the height, tilt the screen, or view the TV from multiple angles? Full-motion mounts offer greater flexibility, while static mounts keep the TV in a fixed position.

When selecting a TV mount, it's also essential to consider the ease of setup and breakdown, especially if you plan to remove the TV and mount during transport. Some mounts may require additional tools for installation and removal, while others can be set up and taken down without any tools.

Lastly, don't forget to measure the space you have available in your pop-up camper and choose a mount that fits within those dimensions, ensuring that the TV won't be too big or small for your needs.

Where to place the TV

When deciding where to place your TV in a pop-up camper, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you need to determine how much space you have available and choose a location that won't take up valuable counter space. If you have limited counter space, consider mounting the TV on a wall or ceiling bracket to free up the counter area.

Another important consideration is the viewing angle. If you plan to watch TV from your bed, ensure the TV is positioned at a comfortable height and angle for viewing. You may also want to consider a full-motion mount that allows you to adjust the height, tilt, and swing of the TV to suit your needs.

Additionally, think about the size of your TV. If you have a smaller TV, placing it on a countertop or shelf might be a suitable option. For larger TVs, mounting on a wall or ceiling bracket is often a better choice to save space.

When choosing a location for your TV, also consider the surrounding environment and potential distractions. Avoid placing the TV in an area where it will be exposed to direct sunlight, as this can cause glare and make it difficult to see the screen. Similarly, avoid locations near windows or doors, as the movement outside may distract from the viewing experience.

Lastly, ensure that the location you choose for your TV is secure and stable. If mounting the TV, use appropriate hardware and consider reinforcing the structure if needed to bear the weight of the TV. By taking these factors into account, you can find the ideal place for your TV in your pop-up camper, ensuring both functionality and an enjoyable viewing experience.

How big a TV to use

When deciding on the size of the TV to use in your pop-up camper, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need to determine where you want to mount the TV. This will help you decide on the size of the TV that will fit in the available space. For instance, if you plan to mount the TV on a countertop or cabinet, you'll need to ensure that it doesn't take up too much space or hinder your activities. On the other hand, if you opt for a wall-mounted TV, you'll need to consider the weight of the TV and the thickness of the wall to choose an appropriate mounting bracket.

The size of the TV should also be determined by your viewing distance. If you plan to watch TV from a bed or seating area, make sure the TV is big enough to see comfortably from that distance. A TV that's too small may strain your eyes, while a TV that's too big may be overwhelming and take up valuable space. A 24-inch to 32-inch TV is a popular choice for pop-up campers, as it strikes a balance between visibility and compactness.

Additionally, the type of TV mount you choose will impact the size of the TV you can use. Some mounts have weight or size limitations, so be sure to check the specifications before purchasing. If you want a TV that can swing out of the way when not in use, a full-motion mount may be a good option. These mounts often allow for height and tilt adjustments, providing flexibility in terms of TV size and viewing angles.

When selecting a TV for your pop-up camper, it's important to consider your specific needs and constraints. Think about the available space, your desired viewing distance, and the type of mount that will work best for your setup. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a TV size that is comfortable, functional, and enjoyable for your camping experiences.

Installing the mount

To install the mount, you will need to decide where you want to place your TV. This will help you determine the type of mount you need. For instance, if you want to mount your TV in a cabinet, you can opt for a static TV stand. If you want to mount it on a wall, you can choose a mount that allows you to adjust the height and tilt of the screen.

Once you have decided on the location and type of mount, you can proceed with the installation. If you are using a desktop TV mount, for example, you will need to drill a hole in the countertop. The mount usually comes with a big bolt and plate that screws up from the bottom and attaches to the TV mount. Then, you can install the mounting brackets provided on the back of your TV. These brackets can usually be left on the TV when travelling.

If you are using a different type of mount, such as a swivel mounting bracket, you can attach it to a piece of plywood and use "U"-shaped brackets to hold the plywood in place. The "U"-shaped brackets can slip over the shower wall panel, providing stability without being attached to it.

Another option is to use a wall mount that saddles the sink lift handle and is attached with u-bolts and wing nuts. This allows for easy removal without the need for tools. To minimise swivel on the handle, you can use stick-on velcro.

Removing the TV and mount

To remove the TV and mount, you will need to follow the installation process in reverse. First, locate the thumb screw that holds the TV in place on the mount and loosen it with your hand or a screwdriver, depending on the type of screw. Gently lift the TV off the mount and set it aside safely.

Next, you will need to detach the mounting brackets from the TV. These are usually attached to the back of the TV and can be unscrewed or detached by hand, depending on the type of brackets and screws used. Make sure to keep the mounting brackets with the TV if you plan to reinstall it elsewhere.

Now, you can focus on removing the mount itself. For the desktop TV mount, unscrew the large bolt and plate that secure the mount to the countertop or cabinet. You may need a screwdriver or wrench for this step, depending on the type of screw or bolt used. Once the bolt and plate are removed, the mount should come away from the surface easily.

If your mount is attached to the ceiling, you will need to detach the hinge that secures the mount to the 2x4 wooden beam. Loosen the wing nut and bolt with a wrench or screwdriver, then lift the mount away from the wood. You can then remove the 2x4 by unscrewing the bolt at the top of the ceiling support brace and lifting the wood away. Don't forget to remove the small rubber stop or harder replacement from the counter, which was added to protect it during setup and tear down.

Finally, pack the TV, mount, and all hardware away safely for transport. You may want to wrap any fragile parts in a protective material, such as bubble wrap, and store them in a sturdy box or container to prevent damage during travel.

Frequently asked questions