Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by Jeremy

Functioning in your RV without a TV does take its tolls some days, especially when you go through a long day of non-stop, drizzling rain and losing Monopoly for the fourth consecutive time.

Fortunately there are solutions, particularly high-performance satellite TV antennas for RVs that let you live, work, and play where every you are. Now the question is, are there any satellite systems for RVs that Canadians can function with?

Here’s your Answer of these providers: The Trav’ler Shaw Direct, and the Trav’ler Bell TV.

But before we go in-depth into the details behind these systems, lets first have a look at all the components needed to make these satellite systems function at their highest capacity.

Accessories

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To understand satellite systems for RVs in full concept, you have to think a lot like your own home. First and foremost, you need to have a TV to watch anything so this becomes the first item in the accessory category.

TVs

Now you’ll want nothing but the best TV, and preferably one that was built with outdoor and off the grid living in mind, and with that, you’ll come across the Furrion Sense 32″ HD LED TV.

In a whole other category from Furrion RV appliances, this Furrion electronic device is made to handle the bumps, vibrations, and extreme temperatures that other TVs can’t.

With front facing HDMI connectivity and Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming, this unit (part # FDHK32V1A) includes an integrated sound bar and stereo system made to deliver an immersive audio experience. It’s powerful CPU and energy efficiency provide RV owners satisfaction in knowing that this durable and reliable TV will definitely pair well with the rest of the satellite components.

Another option to consider can be found right on our store page as seen below:

TV Mounts

Once we have a TV choice, the next ideal component is a mount. Two ideal locations are in your RV where there are stickers placed on the wall that say "TV Mount Backer", while the other is in the outdoor kitchen area. There are two main suppliers that sell good quality TV mounts and they are JESSEN and MORryde. An example of a TV mount that is ideal for baggage compartments is the horizontal sliding TV mount from MORryde (part # TV40-002H). It extends 36: with a 90 degree pivot, which is a true space saver with its low profile. Another example that would fit this particular TV above is the rigid portable TV mount which is designed to mount flat panel televisions or monitors with hole patterns up to 100mm x 100mm and weighing up to 25lbs. Being that the TV's weight is between 18 & 19lbs, this mount would be ideal in the long run with or without the aid of a TV adapter plate. To better understand the specifics before ordering any of these products, it is best to checkout this link I'm providing, that will help aid in your measurement skills.

Antennas & Antenna Accessories

After our TV is mounted in its new home, its time to check out which antenna you'll be using. Antennas are the alternative solution to that of a big, bulky satellite dish and there are two popular name brands for satellite antennas which are:

• -Winegard
• -King

Winegard There are currently two options for these Winegard antennas, and both options cater to the Bell TV system, the trav'ler. Option one offers in-motion viewing and is called the Roadtrip T4 antenna, available in either white (Part # RT2000T) or black (Part # RT2035T - pictured). This specific antenna allows you to watch live TV while parked or traveling. It has a fast recovery option when obstructions cause signal loss. Being easily mounted on your roof, and compatible with DISH (HD), this antenna is probably your simplest option as there is no setup required each time you park. If you are looking for the next option of Winegards antennas, you will find the Carryout G3 model, which provides maximum flexibility. Being portable, ulta-lightweight, and compatible with multiple providers, the Carryout G3 is exactly what its called, an antenna that needs to be carried out. Needing to be powered over coax through a power inserter, the G3 does NOT need a 12V adapter. Accessories do need to be included with this antenna, but sold separately. You can use the RK-4000 roof mount kit to permanently mount your antenna to the RV roof, or you could use the TR-1518 aluminum tripod that elevates your satellite off the ground for protection from mud and water. This adjustable 14.5" - 22" tripod makes easy and quick assembly for your carryout G3 model antennas a breeze. The black G3 is part number GM-9035 while the white part number is GM-9000. Have a watch below to understand how easy it is to install these antennas, especially the T4 model. KING As far as the antennas go for this name brand, you'll be deciding between the King Quest Portable Satellite Antenna or the One Pro Satellite Antenna. The King Quest Portable antenna (part # VQ4200) is a small, easy to use unit that is perfect for on the go programming. It's a breeze to set up, much like the Winegard version, as it has a built-in carrying handle and automatic satellite signal acquisition. It can sit on the ground or on an optional tripod mount (part # TR1000), or it can be temporarily, semi-permanently or permanently mounted to your camper or travel trailer with one of their optional accessories. This antenna can be used with one of your existing Bell receivers, or you can choose to add another receiver to your account for a nominal fee. The alternative antenna to consider is the One Pro which is an introduction to the next level of satellite antenna technology. The King One Pro (part # KOP4800) is a fully automated premium satellite TV antenna that gives you the freedom to take your favorite TV programming - on DIRECT TV, DISH, or Bell satellites - with you on the road, or anywhere you go. The King One Pro is highly portable, easy to use, and includes an ultra-modern clear cover so you always know where your antenna is pointing. Other antenna accessories for the King brand include:

• -Quick Release Roof mount kit (part # MB700)
• -Portable Satellite Antenna Carry Bag (Part # CB1000)

Compass & Finder

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Another important component, and the next item to mention is the satellite alignment compass. Winegard in particular has a compass that is designed to obtain the azimuth setting from satellite receivers from the use of your local ZIP/Postal code. Just aim your dish in the direction indicated by the compass and read the instructions to set it up. Finding one of these is a little tricky however, but with some good knowledge of where to find it, ask for part number SC-2000 at any RV wrecker or dealership. You can check out where to get RV Parts and accessories and which RV wrecker I recommend by hovering over the link to the page. For satellite signals in particular, you'll want to have this next component, a satellite finder. Both Winegard and King have their own versions and they are listed below.

• -Winegard SF1000 Satellite Finder - this tool works for Bell dish and has a frequency range of 950- 2050 MHz. You can find this tool on Amazon, to help you get your signal strength with ease.

• -King SureLock Digital TV Signal Finder - This next tool is a foolproof way to locate over the air TV signals no matter where you are. The KING SureLock (part # SL1000) pinpoints the locations of local DTV towers. Not specifically for satellite dishes, its still a component that aids in finding the strongest signals.

Receptacles

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Up until this point we have a TV to watch something on, and a mount that holds your TV. Next we have the antenna to connect to your provider followed by a compass to obtain your signal direction. Next up are the receptacles, which will connect a bunch of these components together utilizing a 25' extension communication cable (part # CL-SK26) from said satellite antenna to satellite dish, which we haven't quite got to yet. Receptacle options are available in about 4 styles and depend on the types of hookups you want to include. These will be mounted on the interior of your fifth wheel, travel trailer or motor home and placed near your wall mount or TV. The most common and popular of them is the TV/Satellite Jack Receptacle and is part # RV-7542, white in color. This 12V DC power supply features dual jack input enabling you to receive satellite signals and off-air TV. It features a built-in 2-set splitter and flush mount wall plate. Pictured below, this version is available on Amazon, and the exterior version receptacles are supplied from the brand names Winegard, JR Products and Thetford RV Products.

Satellite Dish

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Now we get to the creme-de-la-creme of the article, the brain of the system, the mashed to the potato, the satellite dish, which doesn't compare to the antenna. To make this satellite system for RVs complete, thus in Canada anyway, we are going to tell you quite simply that your two main providers are Shaw Direct and Bell TV. If you've been paying attention up until this point, you'll be well aware that these satellites will give you the ultimate just-like-home viewing experience. First is the Trav'ler Shaw Direct unit. Labeled as Winegard SK-7003 Mount Only on most of the sourced websites I've found, this component showcases an auto-search and stow feature, along with GPS location tracking and is only recommended for stationary usage. Compatible with Shaw Direct satellite, the reflector kit is sold separately (part # SKA-733) but does come with mount, hardware, dish, and receiver. As for the Trav'ler Bell TV satellite dish, you will need to source out part number SK-1000. Curious as to how to set-up these types of units on your RV roof? Below is a video that will show you the Winegard Trav'ler installation and demo - Have a watch!!

Conclusion

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Wrapping things up here, you can easily see the satellite systems for RVs aren't cheap, nor do they make it easy to decide which route to go if you're starting out brand new. That said, whether you choose the antenna method or the satellite method, at least you're prepared on how to set it up and get streaming on your PVR units to access maximum programming out on the road. From Accessories to Compasses to Receptacles to the Satellite Dish itself, having a complete satellite system for your RV, Motorhome, Tiny House or Shipping Container Home, you'll be certain to know that options are always available wherever you are, especially in Canada. This makes it especially easy when you're camping in the Kootenays or chilling out at one of the Shuswap Lake campgrounds. Should you have any questions about satellite systems, please reach out through the comments section, I'd be happy to answer you back! Cheers!