Does Dish Network Work on RVs?

You must have a satellite antenna and receiver in order to get Dish Network in your RV. There are several types of antennas with different capabilities. A standard dish antenna can be mounted to the RV, like the ones on houses. There are also portable dishes for camping, mounted on tripods or set on a lower box. You can also use less obtrusive dome-shaped designs. The receiver and antenna are purchased separately from the Dish Network subscription.

Dish Network offers a pay-as-you-go program designed for RV travel and camping. You pay in advance for the months you will use the satellite, and do not pay for the months you will not. It is not a contract service like many cell phones, and you may stop and start as often as you want without additional charges. Activate your subscription by calling Dish Network and selecting the pay-as-you-go program. Dish Network's subscription phone number is 1-800-472-1039.

You can watch television while the RV is in motion with Dish Network. This ability depends on your satellite receiver. Typically, receivers with a dish-shape work while the RV is moving, but dome-shaped receivers may not. There are dome receivers that work while the RV is moving, but not all of them do so it is best to check the receiver's documentation or call the manufacturer's customer-service line.

It is possible to get high-definition television in your RV. Dish Network's HD programming is compatible will all satellite antennas. The receiver for the antenna must be HD, however, or your receiver will not be able to display the HD signal through your TV. You can also view off-air television channels if you have an HD receiver. This requires a digital off-air antenna, however, and may require additional equipment purchases. Reception for off-air channels can vary according to location, however.

You can also DVR your programs in your RV. Direct Video Recording lets you play back your favorite shows if you can't watch them while they air. You need an external hard drive in addition to your antenna and receiver. Setting up DVR capabilities has a one-time fee through Dish Network. After that, you only need your Dish Network subscription to be turned on.