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Get ready for cinematic experiences on the go by learning how to effectively mount a TV in an RV. A list of the best RV TV mounts inside.
Welcome to the ultimate guide for RV enthusiasts looking to elevate their on-the-road entertainment experience! Embarking on a journey in your RV offers unparalleled freedom and adventure, but it's the little comforts that truly make it feel like your personal haven. Enter the world of RV TVs—the gateway to cinematic experiences on the go.
Join us as we navigate through the maze of distinctive designs to help you uncover the best RV TV mount ideas that promise to redefine your travel escapades. Whether you prefer staying indoors to binge-watch your favorite shows or you are someone who enjoys watching TV outside, we've got you covered!
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right TV Mount
When selecting the ideal TV mount for your RV, several factors come into play to ensure a secure, functional, and aesthetically pleasing setup. Consider the following to choose a TV mount that suits your RV specifics and provides a safe and enjoyable viewing experience while traveling.
Weight Capacity and Size Compatibility:
Assess the weight and size of your TV to match it with a mount capable of supporting its specifications. Ensure the mount's weight capacity exceeds your TV's weight. You should also verify that the mount is compatible with your TV's VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) measurements, as this ensures the holes for mounting tv on RV wall align with the bracket.
Mounting Location and Flexibility:
Think about where you intend to mount the TV in the RV. That way you can assess if you prefer a fixed mount or one that offers flexibility, such as tilting, swiveling, or articulating arms. A tilting or swiveling mount enables adjustments to optimize viewing angles and reduce glare, especially in areas with varying lighting conditions or confined spaces.
Mounting Surface and Structure:
It’s important to first evaluate the wall or surface where you plan to mount a TV in an RV. That way you can ensure the structural integrity and material are suitable to support both the mount and the TV. For RVs that may have lightweight construction compared to traditional homes, consider distributing the weight of the TV across studs or reinforcing the area for mounting a TV in RV for added stability.
Ease of Installation and Accessibility:
If you’re the one doing all the work, make it as easy for you as possible. Opt for a TV mount in the RV that aligns with your installation skills and tools available. Some mounts come with user-friendly installation guides and hardware, while others may require professional installation. Additionally, consider how easily you can access the TV's ports and cables once it's mounted. You don’t want to settle in for a movie night, only to realize you can’t reach the HDMI cable port. That’s why be sure to consider cable management features too, because they can simplify this aspect and maintain a tidy appearance.
Vibration and Shock Resistance:
What’s an RV journey without a few bumps on the road? RVs encounter vibrations, movement, potholes, and whatnot while on the road. That’s why choosing an RV TV wall mount with shock-absorption or anti-vibration technology helps secure the TV and prevents it from swaying or coming loose during travel. Look for mounts designed explicitly for RVs or those with features that mitigate vibrations to ensure the TV's safety and longevity.
Types of TV Mounts
There are several types of TV mounts designed specifically for RVs, each offering unique functionalities to accommodate various preferences and mounting locations. Here’s a brief guide to help you choose which type of TV mount you should go for!
Fixed TV Mounts:
These mounts are the simplest and most common. They securely affix the TV to the wall, providing a stable and low-profile setup. Fixed mounts do not offer movement or adjustability, making them ideal for areas where the viewing angle doesn't need frequent adjustment. They are easy to install and keep the TV close to the wall, which can be advantageous in tight spaces within an RV.
Tilting TV Mounts:
Tilting mounts allow vertical angle adjustments, enabling you to tilt the TV up or down. This feature is beneficial when mounting the TV higher than eye level or to reduce glare from windows or lights. Tilting mounts maintain a relatively slim profile while providing flexibility in optimizing the viewing angle.
Lockable Flip-Down TV Mounts:
Lockable flip-down mounts are installed on the ceiling and allow the TV to be flipped down for viewing and folded up when not in use. They are suitable for RVs with limited wall space or when you prefer to keep the TV out of sight when not watching it.
Pole Mounts:
Pole mounts are installed on a vertical pole or column within the RV, offering flexibility in positioning the TV. These mounts are adjustable in height and often used in motorhomes or larger RVs where wall mounting might not be feasible or preferred.
Locking TV Mounts:
Especially useful in RVs where travel vibrations are common, locking mounts provide additional security. These mounts feature locking mechanisms or brackets that prevent the TV from moving or detaching during transit, ensuring the TV remains in place securely.
Top 10 Best RV TV Mount Ideas
Mounting a TV in an RV can be a creative and challenging endeavor due to limited space and diverse setups. Here are the best RV TV mount ideas, including some unconventional methods, that will satisfy your RV travel entertainment needs.
Ceiling Mount:
RV TV ceiling mounts are an efficient way to maximize space in an RV. They involve installing a sturdy bracket on the ceiling to suspend the TV, keeping it out of the way when not in use. This setup allows for a clear viewing angle from various spots within the RV. It's crucial to choose a mount that allows for easy adjustment, ensuring comfortable viewing positions for everyone in the space. Additionally, consider using locks or securing mechanisms to keep the TV stable during travel.
Swivel Arm Mount:
Swivel arm mounts are popular due to their versatility. By affixing the mount to a wall or cabinet, the TV can be easily pulled out and adjusted for optimal viewing angles. The ability to tilt, swivel, and retract the TV when not in use is advantageous in RVs with limited space. When selecting a swivel arm mount, ensure it's durable enough to withstand the vibrations and movements experienced while traveling.
Magnetic Mount:
Magnetic mounts are specifically designed for smaller TVs and allow for temporary and flexible placement. They use strong magnets to adhere securely to metal surfaces within the RV, such as the refrigerator or other metallic fixtures. While convenient for quick setups, it's essential to ensure the TV's weight is within the limits of the magnetic mount's capacity to prevent accidents.
RV Exterior Mount:
RV outdoor TV mounts for entertainment purposes are gaining huge popularity. Mounting a TV on the exterior of the RV requires a weatherproof and sturdy mount to withstand outdoor conditions and such outdoor RV TV mounts are typically designed to protect the TV from elements like rain and direct sunlight. Samsung’s outdoor wall mount is an excellent RV outside TV mount for RVers who enjoy watching movies, sports, or shows while relaxing outdoors under the RV's awning.
TV Tray Mount:
Repurposing TV trays or folding tables for temporary RV TV mounting offers a quick solution. However, it's essential to ensure the stability and weight-bearing capacity of the tray for the TV. While suitable for occasional use or short-term setups, RV TV trays might not provide the most secure support, especially for larger or heavier TVs.
Articulating Mount:
Articulating mounts offer extensive adjustability, allowing the TV to extend, tilt, and swivel to achieve optimal viewing angles. These mounts are ideal for RVs with limited space, as they provide flexibility in positioning the TV for comfortable viewing from different areas within the vehicle. When selecting an articulating mount, prioritize stability and sturdiness to handle the rigors of travel.
Mounting without Studs:
For surfaces where drilling into studs isn't an option or may cause damage, here’s how to mount a TV in the RV without studs. Adhesive-based mounts utilize strong adhesives to attach securely to walls, cabinets, or other surfaces within the RV that can provide a short-term, or a long-term solution based on how strong your tools are. It's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation and weight limits to ensure the TV remains securely in place.
Omnidirectional Mounting:
Omnidirectional RV TV antennas simplify the process of receiving over-the-air signals. They eliminate the need for manually adjusting the RV TV antenna to find the best signal reception. These types of RV TV antennas are beneficial for RVers traveling through different regions, as they can capture signals from all directions, providing access to various channels without constant adjustments.
Under-Cabinet Mount:
Utilize the space beneath cabinets in the RV's kitchen or living area to install an under-cabinet TV mount. These mounts are specifically designed to attach securely underneath cabinets, allowing the TV to flip down for viewing and fold up for storage when not in use. This approach maximizes space efficiency and keeps the TV conveniently tucked away when cooking or when the area is not designated for entertainment purposes. It's essential to ensure the mount's stability and compatibility with the TV's size and weight for safe and secure usage.
DIY Creative Mounts:
DIY solutions for TV mounting in RVs can involve various creative approaches. For example, repurposing adjustable arms from other devices or creating custom brackets to fit specific areas in the RV can optimize space utilization. Some RVers convert kitchen cabinet spaces to house a TV, allowing it to slide out for viewing and slide back in for storage, effectively concealing it when not in use. These DIY solutions require careful planning and execution to ensure proper functionality and safety.
Bonus: For the times when you don’t have access to cable or RV TV antenna, here’s how to watch TV in RV without cable. Streaming devices offer access to a wide range of entertainment options without relying on any wires or lines. By connecting the TVs to the RV's Wi-Fi or a personal hotspot, RVers can stream content from popular platforms directly to their TV. This method provides flexibility in content selection and eliminates the need for traditional cable connections.
What You Will Need to Mount Your RV TV
Don’t get overwhelmed if you are mounting your RV TV yourself! We will help you figure out what you will need to start. Mounting a TV in an RV typically requires a few essential tools that can simplify the TV in RV mounting process and ensure a secure installation in your RV. Here are seven tools that you may need.
Stud Finder:
A stud finder is crucial for locating wooden or metal studs within the RV's walls. These studs provide the necessary structural support for securely mounting the TV bracket. By identifying the studs, you can ensure that the TV mount is anchored to a sturdy part of the wall, enhancing stability and safety.
Level:
A level helps ensure the TV mount is installed straight and aligned correctly. It prevents the mounted TV in the RV wall from being installed at an angle, providing a more comfortable viewing experience and a visually appealing setup. It's crucial to adjust the mount to maintain the TV's level position.
Power Drill and Drill Bits:
A power drill is essential for drilling holes into the RV's wall to secure the TV mount. Ensure you have the appropriate drill bits for the wall material (such as wood, metal, or fiberglass) to make precise holes for mounting screws or bolts. A drill with various bit sizes will be useful for different mounting hardware.
Screwdriver or Screw Gun:
Depending on the type of screws or bolts provided with the TV mount, a screwdriver or a screw gun may be necessary for fastening the mount securely to the wall. Make sure you have the correct type and size of screwdriver or bit that matches the mounting hardware.
Measuring Tape:
When mounting a TV in a RV, a measuring tape is handy for accurately measuring the mounting area, ensuring that the TV is positioned at the desired height and distance from other objects or furniture. It helps in determining the proper placement of the TV mount on the wall before drilling holes.
A Marker:
Use a pencil or marker to mark the precise spots where holes need to be drilled for the mounting screws or bolts. Marking these spots ensures accuracy during the installation process and helps in aligning the mount correctly.
Stud Reinforcement Materials (if needed):
In some cases, especially if mounting on thin walls or areas without adequate structural support, additional materials like plywood, mounting plates, or anchors might be required to reinforce the wall or distribute the weight of the TV more evenly.
Protecting Your TV on Rough Roads
You never know when you’ll be crossing a route that’s enough to jostle your motorhome. That’s why it’s important to take precautions and protect your TV during RV travels. Doing so is crucial to prevent damage and ensure your TV’s longevity.
Firstly, securing the TV with a specialized RV TV mount plays a pivotal role. Opt for RV TV mounts explicitly designed for mobile environments, featuring locking mechanisms, shock absorption, or anti-vibration technology. These mounts offer enhanced stability, keeping the TV firmly in place and minimizing the effects of bumps and vibrations encountered on uneven terrains. Additionally, using RV TV straps or bungee cords to further anchor the TV to the mount can provide an extra layer of protection, preventing accidental dislodging or movement while in transit.
Moreover, safeguarding the TV from external impacts is essential. Consider investing in padded covers or custom foam padding designed for TVs to shield them from potential jolts and impacts. Securely fasten these protective covers around the TV before hitting the road to cushion against sudden movements and vibrations. You should also routinely inspect the mounting hardware and connections to make sure that they remain tight and secure. This will also reduce the risk of the TV shifting or sustaining damage while traveling on rough and bumpy roads. By combining a robust TV mount, safety straps, and protective covers, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage to your TV and enjoy uninterrupted entertainment during your RV adventures.
Conclusion
As we navigate the winding roads and endless adventures of RV life, having a TV just enhances your cozy life on the road. As RV enthusiasts, our choices in mounts aren't just about brackets and screws; they're the anchors that tether our comfort and joy to every mile traveled. So, give this guide a good read, choose a secure RV TV mount method that will suit your needs, and let the adventures continue! Happy RVing!