Everything to Know About Motorhome TVs

There’s nothing like a road trip in your motorhome, exploring new places, cooking your favourite meals, and sleeping under the stars. But what if you want to enjoy some downtime inside too? Whether you want to catch up on your go-to series, watch a movie or check the news, a motorhome TV is a must-have for many motorhome enthusiasts. But how do you choose the best TV for your motorhome, campervan, or small van? That’s exactly what we’ll look at in this guide.

We’ll go over the different types of motorhome TVs, what makes a great TV for your travels, and some recommendations that suit all kinds of needs. Plus, we’ll cover voltage requirements and help you understand which options are the best for campervans and motorhomes alike.

Why get a Motorhome TV?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of motorhome TVs, it’s important to understand why they’re such a great addition to your van. Having a TV in your motorhome or campervan means you can enjoy entertainment on the go, whether you're parked up at a campsite or somewhere off the beaten track. Here’s why a TV for motorhomes is a great investment:

• Entertainment on the go: Whether it’s raining outside, or you simply want a night in, a TV gives you entertainment wherever you are.
• Compact and space-saving: Today’s motorhome TVs are designed to be lightweight, compact, and energy-efficient. They’re a great choice for small spaces.
• 12V compatibility: Many motorhome TVs are designed to run on 12V systems for when you don’t have access to mains power.
  
  

Types of Motorhome TVs

When it comes to picking the right TV for your campervan, there are a few options available, each catering to different needs. Let’s take a look at the different types of motorhome TVs to help you decide which one fits your travel style best.

1. 12V TVs for Motorhomes

The most popular type of TV for motorhomes is the 12V TV. These TVs are designed to run off your motorhome’s 12V battery system, which is great for off-grid living or when you're not plugged into mains power.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient and perfect for long stays off-grid.
• Designed to operate directly from your 12V battery system.
• Generally smaller and more compact.

Cons:

• Screen size might be smaller compared to standard household TVs.
• Image quality can sometimes be lower, depending on the model.

Recommended Products:

• RCA RB24H2CU is a 24-inch HD TV designed for 12-volt power systems, for caravans, motorhomes, and off-grid setups. With crisp HD resolution, it delivers a clear picture and good entertainment on the go. Price: £210

• Cello 12 Volt 32 inch Traveller Smart TV is a great choice for caravans and motorhomes, offering a larger crisp 32” HD display and built-in Wi-Fi for easy access to streaming apps. Its lightweight design and 12V compatibility make it perfect for on-the-go entertainment. Price: £219.99

2. 12V/240V Hybrid TVs

Hybrid TVs can run on both 12V and 240V. They are fantastic if you want the flexibility to use them while camping off-grid, but also when connected to mains power at a campsite or at home.

Pros:

• Versatile, can be used both with 12V and 240V.
• Good for both short and long-term trips.

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive.
• Can be heavier compared to purely 12V models.

Recommended Product:

• Avtex 21.5" L219DRS: This TV is designed for caravans and motorhomes, featuring an ultra-compact, edge-to-edge frameless design and advanced recording technology. It allows you to watch a DVD, digital terrestrial, or satellite TV channel while recording another at the same time. Price: £399.

3. Small Motorhome TVs (Under 20”)

If you have a small motorhome or campervan, space can be an issue, and a larger TV may take up too much room. In this case, a small TV (under 20 inches) is often the best choice. These TVs are compact and lightweight, perfect for snug spaces.

Pros:

• Compact and space-saving.
• Easy to install and transport.
• Generally more affordable.

Cons:

• Smaller screens mean not as luxurious to watch.

Recommended Products:

• Cello C1924WSF-TRAV: This is a 19-inch HD 12V TV designed for travel, that’s ideal for caravans, motorhomes, and off-grid use. It features built-in Wi-Fi and Freeview, providing easy access to streaming apps and live TV on the go. Price: £219

• The Cello 12 Volt 16-inch TV: A compact and space-saving option for motorhomes where room is limited. Despite its small size, it delivers clear picture quality and reliable performance for travel-friendly entertainment. Price: £150

Voltage Requirements for Motorhome TVs

When shopping for motorhome TVs, it's important to be aware of the voltage they need. In the UK, most motorhomes and campervans use a 12V battery system, meaning your TV needs to be compatible with 12V power.

• 12V TVs: These are specifically designed to run off your motorhome’s battery system. They are ideal for off-grid travel, and because they use less power, they won’t drain your battery as quickly.
• 12V/240V Hybrid TVs: These TVs give you the flexibility of running on both 12V and 240V, making them versatile for both off-grid and campsite use.
• 240V TVs: If you're parked at a campsite or have access to mains electricity, you can use a standard 240V TV. But these are less energy-efficient than 12V TVs and may need a special converter if you want to use them on a 12V battery system.

When buying a TV, always check the voltage requirements and make sure it’s compatible with your motorhome’s power system. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult an electrician or professional installer. They can help with proper wiring and ensure your TV is safely connected to your motorhome’s electrical system.

Additional Tips for Choosing the Best Motorhome TV

1. Consider the TV mounting system: A sturdy TV mount is key to securing your TV during travel. Look for mounts that are anti-vibration and can hold the TV steady while you’re on the move.
2. Wi-Fi and streaming: Some modern motorhome TVs come with smart TV features, meaning you can stream shows from services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer. Keep in mind that you’ll need a good Wi-Fi connection or mobile data for this.
3. Sound quality: Motorhome TVs tend to have smaller speakers, so you may want to invest in a portable soundbar for better audio.
4. Screen size: While large TVs might be tempting, remember that smaller TVs are often more energy-efficient and better suited for compact spaces like campervans and motorhomes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a TV for your campervan or a larger TV for your motorhome, there are plenty of options to suit your needs. From energy-efficient 12V TVs to hybrid models, you’ll find a range of products to fit your travel style. Keep in mind the size of your space, voltage requirements, and the types of features you need, such as smart capabilities or a built-in DVD player.

So, grab your remote, sit back, and enjoy your next adventure with the best TV for your motorhome. Happy travels.

Motorhome insurance through Ripe covers both the exteriors and interiors of your motorhome, so once you've decided on the best motorhome tv for your van, you can keep you and your van covered.