What You Need to Know About Starlink for RVs
If you have yet to hear about Starlink for RVs, then you need to read the rest of this article. Whether you are an RV owner or renter, you’ll be interested to know easy and accessible satellite internet is possible. Starlink is a system of low-orbit satellites funded by tech billionaire Elon Musk- the creator of Tesla and The Boring Company.
These satellites are vastly different from previous satellite internet systems that have been around since the 90s. Accounting for inflation, a first gen satellite phone (which could only make calls) would cost you over $4,000! Nowadays, you may be able to get working internet speeds in remote areas without cell reception.
Starlink also works as a “pay-as-you-go” service. This simply means that you are not locked into a long-term contract for Starlink services. The one-time payment for the equipment is essentially all you need. Afterward, you can subscribe and unsubscribe depending on your usage. If you are not intending on using Starlink for some months, then you can simply pause your service and resume the next time you rent out or use your RV.
How Much is Starlink for RVs?
There are four different tiers of Starlink- residential, RV, business, and maritime. Instead of complicated pricing tables and fees, the Starlink system and services cost the same regardless. However, prices will differ if you want to purchase business class Starlink services. Business and Maritime tiers are for professional use and their pricing reflects that. Below is a simple table showing the pricing tiers for Starlink services.
Starlink Rates and Tiers
| Starlink Service | One-time Equipment Payment | Monthly Service Cost | Max Network Speeds |
| Residential | $599 | $135 | 200 mbps down / 20 mbps up |
| RV | $599 | $135 | 100 mbps down / 10 mbps up |
| Business | $2,500 | $500 | 500 mbps down / 40 mbps up |
| Maritime | $10,000 | $5,000 | 350 mbps / 40 mbps up |
How Fast is Starlink?
Wireless satellite internet in remote areas is a fantastic option to have when camping or traveling in an RV. However, if you’ve ever tried to use a 2G or weak 3G signal on a phone, then you’re probably wondering how fast it is. After all, the internet doesn’t matter if it takes 5 minutes to load a page or send an email. Well, you’ll be happy to know that Starlink for RVs can reach speeds of 5 to 100 mbps during peak usage hours. With good reception and clear skies, you could stream full HD videos, make video calls, send files, and make calls through VoIP.
When not in high-capacity areas, you can expect lower speeds. Depending on the level of traffic Starlink is experiencing, you may experience slow-downs and delays in your connection.
What is the difference between Starlink and Starlink for RVs?
When it comes to pricing, you’ll find that residential and RV Starlink options are the same price. They both cost $599 for the one-time equipment cost and $135 a month afterward for the service. However, they do not exactly function the same on the Starlink network. Users report that Starlink for RVs has a low prioritization on the network compared to residential. That means during peak usage hours in low-capacity areas, RV internet services will be slower than residential connections.
The two services also have slightly different speed ranges. For example, the max speed for residential service is around 200 mbps down and a max of 20mbps up. If you are using Starlink for RV, you can expect max speeds of around 100 mbps down and 10 mbps up.
Where Does Starlink for RVs Work?
Starlink does not work everywhere but as more satellites roll out, you can expect more consistency and coverage. For now, coverage may be limited in certain remote areas. However, Starlink currently reports inland coverage for the entirety of the United States. This means that if you have clear skies, no obstructions, and Starlink anywhere on land in the United States, you should get coverage. Certain bodies of water, like the Great Lakes, will be receiving coverage in 2023 or lack coverage, for now. You can check out the Starlink for RVs coverage map at the link here: Starlink for RVs Coverage Map.
How to Install Starlink for RVs
One of the biggest advantages of Starlink is the simplicity of setting it up. You do not need any power tools or fancy equipment. You can have your Starlink for RVs up and running in as little as 30 minutes. The equipment comes with a tripod mount that makes it easy to station your satellite in a good area. However, if your RV has mounting options for the top of the vehicle, then you can use the Volcano Mount. The Volcano Mount is an optional accessory for mounting to RVs. Keep in mind that the mount and dish are not suitable for high winds. You should not drive while the satellite is mounted on the RV.
Simply set up your satellite, either on the tripod or optional Volcano Mount, and connect it to your router. Plug in the router to a power outlet and you are pretty much ready to go. The Starlink for RVs equipment kit comes with a 75-ft cable so you won’t have to worry about cord length problems. However, you can also purchase an option 150-ft cable if necessary.
Should You Get Starlink for RVs?
The biggest question you may have regarding Starlink is “should I get Starlink for my RV?” Well, the short answer is yes. If you are someone who loves adventuring and driving your RV to destinations that never have service, then it’s a lifesaver. You can stay connected and enjoy all the comforts you’d have at home in an RV. A missing link for professionals, families, and individuals who love the outdoors has been high-speed internet access and Starlink aims to fix that.
With the pay-as-you-go service, you should consider purchasing Starlink for RVs, even if you do not own an RV. The entry price for the equipment is not much more than a mid-tier smartphone and requires no service contract forcing you to pay monthly. If you rent or find yourself camping outdoors often, then Starlink is a great option for getting internet access. If you are renting an RV, then you can bring Starlink with you as it’s easy to transport and set up.
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