How to get the best Starlink connection at camp

If you've read our Starlink blog posts, it's no surprise that we often use our Starlink mounted on a tripod at camp. And while we've shown lots of examples of how we use Starlink on a tripod, we haven't really explained why we use it on a tripod. So why do we use Starlink on a tripod especially when we could just put it on the ground using it's kickstand or mount it on our truck camper's roof?

Why We Use a Tripod for Starlink

1. A Clear View of the Sky

Starlink works best with an unobstructed view of the sky. When camping under beautiful pine trees or in shaded spots (like we often do), mounting Starlink on the roof can be problematic. Trees, shrubs, and other obstructions block the signal and reduce connectivity.

Using a tripod allows us to place the Starlink dish in a location with a clear view of the sky. For example, while our campsite might be shaded, we can move the tripod just behind our camper to an open area with an unobstructed view—perfect for Starlink to connect to its satellites.

Additionally, a tripod can elevate the dish above ground-level obstacles like bushes or logs, ensuring a stronger, uninterrupted connection.

Pro Tip: Starlink recommends pointing the dish north, but in many cases, simply pointing it straight up works well, thanks to the abundance of satellites in the sky.

2. Mobility

One of the best things about using a tripod is how easy it is to move. If you’re not getting a great connection or the signal drops out, you can quickly pick up the tripod and reposition it.

For example, you might move the dish slightly to find a better angle with fewer obstructions. A tripod also makes it simple to adjust the dish orientation if you need to experiment with pointing it north or directly upward.

3. Protection from Damage

Placing the Starlink dish on the ground using its kickstand seems like an accident waiting to happen. A dish sitting at ground level is vulnerable to being stepped on, kicked, or run over by pets, kids on bikes, or even a distracted camper (like me!).

Elevating the dish on a tripod keeps it visible and out of harm’s way, reducing the risk of damage. This added protection gives us peace of mind while we’re busy enjoying camp life.

Bonus Tip: Make Setup Quick and Easy

We use our DIY Starlink tripod adapter, which makes attaching the dish to a tripod seamless. Simply slide the cable into the adapter, attach it to the tripod with a quick-release connector, and you’re good to go. This setup not only saves time but also keeps everything secure and stable.

Check out our full video showing these tips about how we use Starlink at camp.

And while we love having Starlink with us on our travels, we also try to use it intentionally turning it off when we're done. Check out our "Internet Hour" post to learn more.

See you out there,

-Adam