Best Caravan TV
Embarking on an adventure with your caravan or motorhome offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. An essential piece of equipment to enhance this experience is a caravan television, explicitly designed for life on the road.
This blog post will provide you with our top picks for the best caravan TV available today, considering factors such as screen size, power source, connectivity options, streaming via the internet and so much more.
★★★★★
“In our opinion, the Avtex W249TS is the Best Caravan TV currently available on the market. It offers a full HD picture, all the apps you need (Netflix, Amazon Prime etc) as well as 12V operation. It does it all!”
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Caravan TV
Screen Size
The screen size of your caravan TV is a prime specification to get right. You need to trade off the viewing experience against how well it fits in your available space. We think the sweet spot is 24-inch, but we have seen people use a 42-inch television in a large motorhome. Pretty impressive!
For the purposes of this roundup, we’ve stuck with 24-inch choices, but of course you can ramp the size up if you’ve got the space!
Power Source
It’s crucial to consider what voltage you have available when selecting the best caravan TV to purchase. A television which can support multiple voltages is best – for example, 12V from the leisure battery and 240V from mains hookup is probably sufficient. However, some of our recommended televisions can also operate off 24V, which is a rarer situation, but is sometimes used on buses or ex-military vehicles. Make sure you buy a TV which fully covers your power supply.
Connectivity Options
Having a range of versatile connectivity options is also critical when selecting the best caravan TV. Multiple ports (e.g. HDMI) enables seamless compatibility with your content sources on the road. Similarly, we recommend buying a TV which has internet connectivity and ‘Smart TV’ features for streaming services like Netflix or Disney. These TVs can connect to your smartphone via a Wi-Fi hotspot and is an excellent choice if you’ve got a decent data package with your phone (as well as reception!).
An integrated DVD player or USB port can also be useful for watching old movies or for viewing photographs without relying solely on internet services. However, in our view DVD is a bit of an ageing format nowadays and possibly not worth the extra complication if you’re able to stream.
Choosing The Best Caravan TV For Your Needs
It’s important to also consider picture and sound quality, durability, viewing angle, and power consumption when choosing the best caravan TV to suit your needs.
Picture And Sound Quality
In my experience, picture and sound quality are the two most important aspects to consider when choosing a caravan TV. A high-resolution screen will make all the difference in viewing pleasure while on the road.
Additionally, decent sound quality can really enhance your overall viewing experience. Consider investing in external speakers or a soundbar that can easily be connected to your TV (either by cable or wirelessly with Bluetooth) to improve the sound and up the immersion factor of your favourite programs or movies.
Durability
It’s essential to choose a caravan TV that is built to withstand the rigours of life on the road. When you’re travelling, your TV will likely be subjected to bumps, jolts, and temperature extremes.
Look for a TV with sturdy construction that can handle these challenges without breaking or developing faults. Our recommendations below take this into account.
Viewing Angle
When choosing a TV for your caravan, it’s important to consider the viewing angle. This refers to the maximum angle from which you can comfortably watch the screen without distortion or colour loss.
The ideal viewing angle will depend on your setup and seating arrangements within the caravan.
It’s worth noting that even amongst caravan TVs, there can be significant variations in maximum viewing angle. Some models offer much wider angles than others, so it’s essential to research each model thoroughly before purchasing.
Additionally, some higher-end models may come with adjustable stands or wall-mounting brackets, which allow you to adjust the viewing angle as required.
Power Consumption
If you’re running off a battery or camping power pack, energy consumption becomes a crucial factor when choosing the best caravan TV. Domestic televisions are generally cheaper but tend to draw more power than motorhome/caravan TVs.
When selecting the best caravan TV, it is essential to consider how much power your chosen model will consume and ensure it fits your specific needs. Some models feature LED screens that use less electricity without compromising picture quality, while others come equipped with eco modes designed for low-power usage.
Avtex W249 TS Smart TV
Key Features
- Sleek and compact design with a table mount for easy placement in any room.
- High-quality 1080p resolution LED display for crystal clear picture quality.
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for seamless streaming from various devices.
- Supports popular internet services such as Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, YouTube, and Freeview.
- Guaranteed software updates ensure the TV stays up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
- Avtex brand ensures reliable performance backed by years of industry experience.
As an avid camper, I have found the Avtex W249TS Smart TV to be a highly impressive choice and the best caravan TV on the market currently. Designed with motorhomes, caravans, trucks, and boats in mind, this 24-inch ultra-compact television offers a sleek edge-to-edge frameless design that enhances the viewing experience.
One of the standout features of this smart TV is its exceptional flexibility, allowing campers to enjoy entertainment options without any compromises. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, it effortlessly enables streaming from popular services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, iPlayer, ITVX, Sky Store, and YouTube when connected to the internet. Additionally, the integrated Freesat Satellite Decoder provides access to terrestrial and satellite channels without requiring extra equipment. Moreover, the 12v/24v DC power option ensures low power consumption, allowing you to enjoy your favourite shows while conserving energy wherever you are.
The Avtex stands out as our top choice due to its cutting-edge features and ability to cater specifically to the needs of experienced campers. Equipped with multiple HDMI ports, USB inputs, and audio connections, it offers hassle-free connectivity for external devices such as soundbars or gaming consoles. With the Avtex W249TS, you can embark on a camping adventure and enjoy great entertainment without any worries.
This Avtex W249TS Smart TV is ideal for those who love watching on the go – whether from their motorhome, caravan, truck or boat. Its ultra-slim design and great sound make it the perfect companion on any journey. We highly recommend this one!
Pros
- 3 Year Manufacturers Warranty for long life and great value
- Powered by 12v/24v DC or 240 volts AC for ultra-low power consumption
- Wirelessly cast content from mobile devices to the TV.
- Full HD Smart TV with built-in satellite decoder and access to popular streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+, and more.
Cons
- No Freeview Play included
- Only a 24-inch screen size
- Includes a built-in satellite decoder which might not be required for everyone
Falcon TV Plus Pack
The Falcon TV Plus pack is a highly impressive option for those who want to enjoy their favorite TV channels while camping or caravanning. One of its standout features is the high-definition LED screen, which provides excellent clarity and visibility from any angle. Whether you’re sitting directly in front of the TV or watching from a different spot, you can expect a visually satisfying experience. We really like the Falcon because you get everything that you need for TV in one pack – including a cover for the screen to protect it.
Another notable aspect of the TV Plus is its versatility when it comes to power options. It can be powered safely from a 12-volt camping battery, making it convenient for outdoor enthusiasts. Alternatively, if you have access to an electrical hook-up on-site, you can directly power the TV Plus from there. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy your favorite shows even in remote locations without worrying about draining your battery quickly.
The Falcon TV Plus is equipped with both a satellite receiver and a digital Freeview receiver, allowing you to watch TV through a satellite dish or a digital TV antenna. The satellite receiver comes preloaded with all the UK’s TV stations, providing a wide range of entertainment options.
Tuning is easy with a single push of a button, ensuring that you can access various digital channels hassle-free. The TV Plus even allows you to record, rewind, and pause live TV via a USB stick, guaranteeing that you never miss your favorite shows again when you’re out for the day in the mountains.
Finally, the Falcon TV Plus offers a built-in DVD player. Although DVDs are a bit old fashioned these days, this means that you can watch your favorite movies or listen to CDs without the need for external devices. The TV’s sound quality is decent, but if you desire a richer audio experience, you can easily connect a soundbar or wireless headphones via the built-in Bluetooth functionality. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to watch TV without disturbing others using Bluetooth headphones.
For secure mounting, Falcon provide the option to mount the TV on a wall or use the included table-top brackets – this gives you flexibility in terms of placement.
In conclusion, the Falcon TV Plus is an excellent choice for those who enjoy camping or caravanning but still want access to their favorite TV channels. With its high-definition LED screen, flexible power options, satellite and Freeview receivers, recording capabilities, built-in DVD player, and Bluetooth connectivity, it offers a comprehensive and enjoyable TV viewing experience.
Pros
- Comes with everything you need in one pack
- Can be powered by 12v DC or 240V AC
- Freeview and antenna is supplied
- Useful to have Bluetooth and a DVD player
Cons
- No apps like Netflix etc
- DVD is a bit old-fashioned but useful if you don’t have a signal
Cello ZRTG0242 Traveller
The Cello ZRTG0242 Traveller is a well-suited choice for campers who prioritise portability and functionality while seeking entertainment on their trips. This 24-inch Full HD LED TV, manufactured in the UK, offers full Smart TV functionality with an Android TV operating system. This means you can use a Wi-Fi hotspot from your phone or campsite to stream shows on Netflix, BBC iPlayer or similar services. This is fantastic, and works really well if you’ve got a good signal. There is also Google Chromecast built in which will give you YouTube and other apps to use. You can also mirror your phone onto it.
One of the reasons why we ranked this product at No. 3 on our list is that it has HDMI for external devices and USB 2.0 for recording digital TV or playing media files. This versatility allows users to expand their entertainment options while camping. Moreover, it has been designed exclusively for travellers and operates efficiently on 12V or 240V power, depending on what you’ve got available.
The sound is ok, and probably not its major selling point, but it’s certainly adequate for you to catch up with Coronation Street!
In conclusion, the Cello ZRTG0242 Traveller offers an excellent choice for experienced campers who prioritise a high-quality visual experience without unnecessary complications or additional equipment. Its user-friendly interface, impressive features, and reliable customer service helpline based in the UK contributes to its overall value. By choosing this TV, campers can enhance their camping trips with well-deserved downtime after a day of adventurous exploration.
Pros
- Enjoy Free to air HD channels with both Terrestrial & Satellite Tuners
- Watch your favourite media files with the built-in USB 2.0 port
- Perfect for travel with its compact and portable design
- Get reliable after-sales support from a UK-based customer service helpline
Cons
- Limited screen size of 22 inches
- Only compatible with Free to Air HD channels
- Requires external power source for use in non-travel situations
Sharp 24'' 1T-C24EE2KF2UBM Aquos Smart TV
I’ve always been impressed with Sharp as a brand for decent electronic equipment at reasonable prices. This Sharp 24” Aquos Smart TV, ranked as my No. 3 pick, offers exactly that. This slim and compact television has features that will appeal to caravanners.
One of the standout features of the Sharp is its compatibility with Caravans, Motorhomes, Boats, and Trucks. It can be powered using the included 12V/24V charger or a standard UK/EU plug, ensuring convenience and flexibility for various camping setups. It is a full Smart TV as long as you have internet access (Wi-Fi hotspot for example) meaning that you can access popular streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video.
The Sharp TV also has Freeview Play which gives you a wide range of channels at no cost if you can pick them up (it requires decent aerial reception and internet access). I have also been very impressed with the picture quality on the Sharp Aquos – the colours are striking and the images sharp (to coin a phrase!).
The Sharp 24” Smart LED TV excels in connectivity options, offering three HDMI ports and USB and other essential connections such as Component and Composite input jacks. This versatility allows campers to connect their other devices and enjoy various entertainment options while immersed in nature. Additionally, the TV supports Miracast technology, enabling wireless content sharing from smartphones or tablets. This feature adds to the enjoyment of watching funny videos together around a cosy fire at night.
The TV’s design is both stylish and practical, allowing for easy wall mounting or placement on a tabletop using its stand. This flexibility is especially beneficial when space is limited, such as inside a tent. Furthermore, the audio quality provided by the DTS TruSurround system is exceptional, immersing viewers in their favourite movies or shows during relaxing evenings after a day of exploration.
Overall, the Sharp 24” Smart LED TV offers a fantastic combination of style, practicality, and immersive audio-visual experience, making it an excellent choice for campers prioritising reliable entertainment during their trips.
Pros
- Enjoy live TV or catch up on programmes with the Freeview Play feature
- Experience stunning HD clarity and vibrant colours on a slim, compact design
- Great price and quality
- Connect to multiple devices with various ports available for use
Cons
- No DVD player, but otherwise not much else
RCA RB24H2CUA - Best Value Caravan TV
The RCA RB24H2CUA 12 Volt 24-inch HD TV is the ideal companion in a caravan and is the cheapest TV we’ve reviewed in this roundup. It offers outstanding value for money without compromising on space or convenience. On the downside, it is really just a TV and doesn’t offer any of the newer internet-based streaming services. For that functionality you would need to buy something like an Amazon Fire Stick to access streaming shows.
Despite its compact size, this TV has features that deliver impressive performance. The high-definition LED panel ensures great picture quality, and with Dolby Digital Audio, you get immersive sound. I have fond memories of a movie night in our old caravan, where the vibrant visuals and sound from this RCA TV made the experience truly memorable.
The versatility of the RCA RB24H2CUA is another standout feature that I appreciate as a camper. It offers multiple input options, including HDMI, VGA, USB, MINI AV Inputface, and SCART socket, ensuring easy connectivity for various devices. Connecting your devices is hassle-free whether you want to watch or play anything. Furthermore, its compatibility with 12V and 24V adapters makes it convenient to hook up in motorhomes or campervans without complications.
Overall, if you are searching for an efficient and high-performing portable television solution that elevates your camping experience to new heights, the RCA RB24H2CUA is an excellent choice. Its combination of quality performance, compact design, and versatile connectivity makes it a standout option for campers seeking enhanced entertainment while on the road. And boy is it cheap!
Pros
- High-quality LED panel and enhanced input signals for clear and smooth picture
- Great value for money TV
- Versatile functions with 2 bottom brackets and wall mounting support, ideal for various rooms or spaces
- Various extension interfaces, including HDMI, VGA, USB, Mini AV Inputface, SCART socket for inserting multiple devices
Cons
- Only supports Freeview HD DVB T2/S2/C, which may not be compatible with other cable/satellite services.
- Non-smart TV, so cannot access streaming services without additional devices.
FAQs:
- What features should I consider when choosing a caravan TV?
When selecting a caravan TV, you should consider the device’s screen size, picture quality, sound quality, portability and power consumption. Additionally, ensuring the TV can receive digital channels and has enough connectivity options to connect to other devices like gaming consoles or streaming sticks is crucial.
- How can I ensure my caravan TV stays safe while travelling?
To protect your caravan TV during travel, securing it with brackets or straps explicitly designed for caravanning purposes is recommended. Invest in a protective case for added protection from bumps and scratches during transit.
- Can I connect my smartphone or tablet to my caravan TV?
Most modern caravan TVs have HDMI ports that allow you to connect your smartphone or tablet via an adapter cable to stream content from these devices on your larger screen. Some models may also feature built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, enabling wireless connectivity between devices without additional cables.
- Is buying an expensive Caravan TV necessary for a good viewing experience?
While high-end Caravan TVs offer better image and sound quality than budget-friendly options, they aren’t always necessary if you’re looking for basic entertainment during your travels. A more affordable option might suffice as long as its technical specifications meet your needs, such as having decent resolution (HD at least), contrast ratio etc., depending upon personal preferences & usage scenarios – be sure to sift through different units before making a decision about which one offers the best balance between cost & performance suited towards individual requirements/preferences determined by lifestyle habits/usage patterns experienced over time while travelling.
5. What is Freeview Play?
Freeview Play is a service in the UK that combines live TV channels, on-demand content, and catch-up TV in a single platform. It offers access to a wide range of content, including TV shows, movies, and sports, from broadcasters such as BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4, My5, and UKTV Play. Users can seamlessly navigate between live TV, on-demand services, and catch-up functionality, allowing them to easily find and watch their favorite programs.
With Freeview Play, viewers can enjoy the convenience of scrolling back through the TV guide to access shows they may have missed in the past seven days. It is compatible with various devices and provides an intuitive interface for easy browsing. Best of all, Freeview Play is free to use, requiring no subscription fees, though an internet connection is needed for accessing on-demand content. Overall, Freeview Play offers a comprehensive and user-friendly solution for accessing live TV, on-demand content, and catch-up services in the UK.
