Viasat Satellite Internet for RV: Everything You Need to Know

About Viasat Satellite Internet for RV, Satellite internet has grown increasingly popular. For one, it’s much better than DSL and dial-up internet services.

Also, the speeds are relatively fast and accessible even in rural areas. And now, thanks to technology, the service has evolved to include accessibility in a moving van or RV.

Along with Starlink and HughesNet, Viasat is a major player in the satellite internet service industry. But the question is, is there a Viasat satellite internet for RV? Read on to learn the answer to this and more.

Table of Contents

Will Viasat Internet Work on an RV?

 Image of a moving RV

(Caption: Image of a moving RV)

The payment plans Viasat currently cannot work on a moving RV, primarily because the company’s satellite dish cannot work while the vehicle is in motion. 

See, the dish requires an unblocked sky view to ensure communication between the two satellites.

So that’s how the technicians position the dish during installation, and any movement would interfere with signal reception. 

Image depicting communication between satellites

(Caption: Image depicting communication between satellites)

A mobile satellite antenna is the closest to Viasat’s RV internet service. But it comes with long-term contracts, and the cost of equipment hardware can amount to thousands of dollars. 

Satellite Internet for RV Options

A thrilling option customers have for RV satellite internet is Starlink RV for portable use anywhere there’s active Starlink coverage.

Additionally, there’s the Flat High-Performance Starlink which can connect to several satellites, allowing users to enjoy consistent internet connectivity while in motion. 

Further, users enjoy the convenience of a permanent installation. And because the dish can withstand harsh environments, you need not worry about it getting damaged. 

Image of a permanently installed satellite dish on RV

(Caption: Image of a permanently installed satellite dish on RV)

HughesNet

HughesNet provides satellite internet service for RVs through IPSat. And the speeds the service offers are good enough for surfing the internet. 

Add-on Plans

HughesNet Residential users can add the service to their DISH plan to have internet access in their RV.

However, you will still need to buy a dish that ranges from $300 to $3,000, and the total installation costs amount to $6,000  or more.

RVDataSat

If you’re a full-time RVer, you likely don’t have a residential service package. RVDataSat helps to fill this gap by offering satellite internet for RVs via Mobile satellite technologies. In addition, RVDataSat provides satellite TV services through DirectTV.

Alternatives to Satellite Internet for RV

Mobile Hotspot From Smartphone

If you have the internet on your smartphone, you can use the hotspot feature to get connectivity on your other devices. However, you want to check with your provider to ensure your data limit can accommodate using the hotspot feature.  

Dedicated Hotspot

RV owners can use a mobile broadband option like Verizon’s Jetpack for a dedicated hotspot. Again, ensure your data limit can support your using this feature. 

Publicly Accessible WiFi

If you’re a traveler who spends most of your time in well-established campsites or national parks, you can check if they offer WiFi services that you can use because you might be pleasantly surprised to find that you can access the internet. 

What to Consider When Getting Satellite Internet for RVs

The following are some of the considerations that you should take into account when acquiring satellite internet for your RV.

Speed

Realistically assess your speed requirements before getting satellite internet for your RV. For example, if you intend to work remotely or stream HD videos regularly, you may have to select a plan that can provide speeds of more than 25Mbps to facilitate a strong and steady connection.

Price

Undoubtedly, in addition to speed, you want an RV internet service that’s not overpriced, so you don’t have to pay exorbitant monthly fees.

Data Caps

You will need to consider how much internet you use and how often. Doing so will enable you to determine which data caps are most appropriate. From there, you can select your plan accordingly.

Equipment

To get RV Satellite internet, you will need to purchase additional equipment. For example, the HughesNet equipment will not work independently, so you must buy an additional dish that can connect to your modem.

Pros & Cons of Satellite Internet for RVs and Vans

Below are some advantages and disadvantages of satellite internet for RVs and vans:

Pros

  • It offers faster internet speeds than other dial-up satellite internet providers since it does not require a cable line or phone.
  • Because it does not require a cable line or phone, it allows users to access the internet from any location in the country. And so can a user without a phone.
  • The equipment is easy to move around with. 

Cons

  • Bad weather can interfere with the internet connection.
  • Obstructions like buildings and trees can negatively impact the signal.
  • Has limited internet speeds
  • It involves high equipment costs, so the costs of setting up are high.

FAQs

Is Viasat Good for RVs?

No, because Viasat does not have a plan suited for an RV on the move. Therefore, your rig would have to be stationary to use Viasat.

Can I Get HughesNet and Viasat in My RV?

As mentioned earlier, there’s no Viasat for RV use. But you can use HughesNet with DISH under the DISH add-on plan. 

Which Satellite Service is Best For an RV?

Each RV satellite service has pros and cons regarding set-up costs, hardware, and monthly fees. Therefore, the best service will depend on the user’s needs and preferences.

Starlink has the Standard RV for portable use and Flat High-Performance Starlink with in-motion capability. Mind you, both RV services boast high speeds and low latency.  

Can You Get Internet on an RV Satellite Dish?

Yes, you can. With an RV-mounted satellite internet dish, you can access the internet anywhere you travel. But it would be best if you point your dish in the right direction.

Conclusion

Now you know about Viasat satellite internet for RVs. With speeds ranging from 12Mbps to 100Mbps, it’s fast enough for even gaming. However, Viasat has no plan for RV use, and users must turn to other satellite internet providers or use alternative RV internet services.  

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