What is a good way to extend my useful range?

[SweatpantsDroner]

I'm trying to extend my range for my DJI Phantom 3 Pro. I am aware that obstacles and buildings severely limit the range of a drone, however I'm looking to increase Line Of Sight distance. I've heard of other operators getting somewhere around 3-5x the advertised distance... How? The DJI GO App, from my understanding, limits the operator to 500m. Are people using a 3rd party app? If so, which one is the best in your opinion? Thanks for your responses.

 

[N017RW]

The 500m limit you mentioned is Altitude not horizontal distance.

The best bang-for-the-buck are parabolic reflectors a.k.a. Windsurfers.
Followed by directional antennas and then Amplifiers.

However amplifiers in the US require a license for legal operation.

 

[Meta4]

I've heard of other operators getting somewhere around 3-5x the advertised distance... How?

The advertised range for the P3 Pro is:
Max Transmission Distance:
Up to 5 km or 3.1 miles (unobstructed, free of interference) when FCC compliant
Up to 3.5 km or 2.1 miles (unobstructed, free of interference) when CE compliant
Three times would be a stretch but you won't find many traveling out five times the advertised range.
The batteries won't get you that far and back

 

[SweatpantsDroner]

Wow, thanks for the fast and concise replies! I will take a look at the Parabolic Reflectors you speak of. @Meta4 You bring up a very valid point about returning to base. I think for now the turn key capabilities are exactly what need, since battery life could potentially be an issue. Thanks again guys.