A Starlink Mini changes how Australians travel. You can work from the paddock, video-call the grandkids from the Gibb, check the radar before you pack up camp, and make Wi-Fi calls from places mobile phones have never reached. Here's how to set up for the big trip.
Before you leave: the checklist
- Activate and test at home. Sorting out an account problem is much easier with phone coverage.
- Get the right plan. You'll need a Roam plan to travel, and Standby only works while parked. See Starlink plans & current prices.
- A mount built for corrugations. MEQ mounts are aluminium, powder-coated and made on the Darling Downs.
- Reliable 12V power with a step up, so it keeps working at camp, not just while you're driving.
- Enough battery. Check with the Runtime Calculator.
- Wi-Fi calling turned on on everyone's phones.
- Data-saving settings on the phones and tablets. See Saving data on Starlink.
- A spare fuse and a handful of cable ties. Small things that save a trip.
On the move or set up at camp?
Decide how you'll use it, because that decides the mount:
- Internet while you drive, and lift it off at camp: a magnetic mount like the MEQ Premium, with a Roam plan.
- Always-on, permanent setup: a bolt-on rack, canopy or tray mount, ideally hardwired.
- Mostly at camp: a magnetic mount you can move between the tow vehicle and the van to find the clearest sky.
Caravans, campers and pop-tops
Most caravan and camper roofs are aluminium or fibreglass, so a magnetic mount won't stick on its own. Your options:
- Fit Steel Discs with 3M VHB tape to give the magnets something to grip.
- Mount the dish on the tow vehicle and extend the Wi-Fi into the van. See Extending your Starlink Wi-Fi.
Avoid suction-cup mounts on hot roofs. They let go in the heat, and the dish can overheat in a sunroof or enclosed spot.
At camp
- Park for the clearest sky, not the most shade.
- Check the mount and cable every time you stop.
- Turn the Mini off overnight if you don't need it, or set a sleep schedule in the app to save battery.
- Don't leave the dish on a camp table or the ground while you're away from camp.
Between trips
Switch to Standby when you get home rather than cancelling. You keep your account and the dish stays registered and up to date, then switch back to Roam when you next head off. The downgrade only takes effect at your next billing date, so request it as soon as you're home.
Not sure what you need? The Kit Builder will put a kit together for your vehicle.