While watching TV on an RV trip isn’t a priority, there may be times when you find yourself wanting to use it. This can be at night after an active day outside, in the morning before you start the day, or during inclement weather. You might even want to watch a little TV outside at your campsite. Whatever the reason, you’ll want the process to go as smoothly as possible. There are multiple ways to enjoy your favorite TV programs while you’re on the road, as well as some accessories you’ll need to ensure you don’t miss out.

Making sure you find a strong signal can make or break TV watching on an RV trip. Finding that signal can come in several ways, such as an antenna or satellite. Using an antenna is typically the most straightforward way to tune into your RV’s TV. First raise the antenna and then rotate it until you find the best signal. While this is also the least expensive option, since the TV is free, signal quality may not always be ideal and you are limited to mainly just the local stations. If your RV came with an antenna, it may not have the best performance. However, replacement antennas with better quality and range are available. Satellite provides more dependable service than antennas and gives you a much greater variety of channels. Satellites are also ideal if you’re in an area where cell signals are weak, as it doesn’t need cell service to wi-fi to operate. However, like an antenna, signal quality can change based on current conditions. It is also a more expensive way to go, as you’ll need a satellite receiver and subscription to a service in order to use it. Due to its cost, satellite service is the most ideal if you plan to use your RV often, or full time.

Of course, cable hookups are also possible, and don’t forget streaming services! Cable can only be used if you’re at a campground that has cable TV services. Costs can vary, although sometimes it may be a complimentary service. You’ll have more channel variety than with an antenna, but less than you would with a satellite. Depending solely on cable hookups for TV watching may not be the best plan, as not every location offers it, so you will want to use one of the other options as a backup. Also, you’ll want to make sure you have a long enough coaxial cable to ensure that your motorhome can reach the hookup. Streaming is the newest form of watching TV. It has the advantage of giving you your favorite shows no matter where you are, as long as there’s reliable Internet and cell service. Of course, you’ll also need subscriptions for whatever streaming services you plan to use, and it’s a good idea to have unlimited data, as streaming uses a lot of it. Unless you have a smart TV, you’ll also need to either be able to cast from a mobile device, or use a streaming device that allows you to access the apps. You may also need to make use of a cell or wi-fi signal booster, so you don’t have to worry about undependable service from a weak signal.

Luckily, there are a number of products that can assist you in ensuring you’ll be able to watch TV when you want. The range extender from WiFi on Steroids has 5 modes of operation to boost your WiFi signal. It features dual antennas and can connect to a wired or wireless network. Winegard offers a wall plate receptacle for both cable and satellite connections. It can be switched so either antenna or cable can be used. Winegard also offers the Air 360, which is an omni-directional antenna. It can pick up signals from any direction up to 55 miles away, so there’s no need for manual adjustments. It also has the ability to pick up 4K and HDTV signals. KING has a few devices designed to enhance TV watching in your RV. Its Extend Pro LTE cell signal booster can boost a signal up to 32 times, and works with 3G, 4G, and 5G. There is also the Tailgater Satellite antenna, which works with DISH network. It automatically locates satellites and can work with the DISH pay-as-you-go plan.

With all of the options available, there is sure to be one that fits your needs and budget. While you’ll be spending most of your time enjoying the outdoors, when the time comes that you want to watch your RV’s TV, you’ll be glad to have dependable service.

Watching TV in Your RV