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For many, backing up an RV can be a real challenge. Even with the help of the mirrors, it’s difficult to see what exactly is behind such a large vehicle. Fortunately, there’s a solution to this. You can install an RV backup camera system, which will give you a clear picture of the rear view and which will go a long way in improving your safety. And to help you find the best RV backup camera system, we’ve compiled this buying guide. Reading our RV backup camera reviews and comparing the top rated products can help you to make a more informed decision and choose a camera that is perfect for you. You can also consult the buying guide that we’ve prepared below the comparison table and reviews and where we’ve covered all the factors to consider when choosing a good RV rear view camera.
Top 10 RV Backup Cameras
RV Backup Cameras Reviewed
Amtifo A7 Wireless Backup Camera
The top rated RV backup camera in 2021 is the Emmako camera. This is the best wireless backup camera for RVs due to a number of advantages.
For one, it’s the large 7 inch digital display. It offers excellent image quality that is very sharp and has no distortion. The display offers auto dimming and adjustability for brightness, providing better visibility in any light condition.
There are also a few setting adjustments that you can do for better convenience. For example, you can turn off or on the reverse guide lines. You can also switch between the rear and the front view or have a split screen with both views if you have a second camera installed.
As for the camera, it’s an upgraded version that is waterproof, water resistant, and temperature resistant. So you don’t have to worry about any weather conditions causing damage to your camera. And for even more protection, it features a 6-layer filter glass.
The camera is equipped with 12 infrared LED lights, which provide HD quality images and excellent night vision, making sure that you have no issues backing up both day and night.
Another excellent feature of this backup camera is the wide viewing angle of 150 degrees. This gives you a wider field of view and guarantees that there are no blind spots as you reverse your RV.
Another advantage of this system is the ease of installation. Since it’s a wireless system, there’s no need to run any cables between the camera and the monitor. You just need to connect the camera to your taillight and then connect the monitor to cigar power and mount it either on the dashboard or windshield.
This rear view camera is compatible with trailers, 5th wheels, motorhomes, vans, etc. It’s the perfect choice for any recreational vehicle that is under 60 feet long. And it has the maximum working range of 99 feet in an open empty area.
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- Solidly built.
- Clear image quality.
- Wide viewing angle.
- Great range.
- Made to withstand all weather conditions.
- Adjustable settings.
- Includes extended range antenna.
- Easy to install.
- Amazing customer support.
- Inexpensive.
- At high speeds, the image gets a little choppy.
DeHonest 5” Wireless Rear View Camera
Another top pick for the best RV observation camera is the DeHonest 5-inch model, which is also a wireless camera. It’s designed for use on camper vans, trailers, campers, motorhomes, etc. It’s applicable for any vehicle that is under 65 feet. For high-speed driving observation, it can handle vehicles up to 40 feet.
This camera comes with a 5 inch monitor that can be mounted either on windshield or dashboard, wherever is more convenient for you. In the package, you get both a suction cup and a small stand with stick-on tape included.
The monitor offers a no interference signal with clear 720P HD quality. And the color quality of the picture stays the same in different lighting conditions. The wide 150-degree angle offers better viewing of the area behind your vehicle, eliminating any blind spots.
You can adjust the guidelines that you see on the monitor. You can adjust them to your vehicle’s shape and size by changing their width, length and positioning. Or you can completely remove them. Also, you can flip or reverse the picture.
Another advantage of this RV backup camera is the amazing night vision capability. It features infrared light with the upgraded chips of the latest technology. The image quality will be grayscale in low lighting but you’ll still see a lot more than with just your backup lights and rear view mirror.
The camera itself also offers excellent features. It’s a waterproof camera, meaning that it can withstand rain and won’t get damaged even if it’s completed submerged in water. It features an IP rating of 69, which shows that the product has a very high level of protection against water and dust.
This backup camera needs only 12V power for operation. The camera you can mount on the license plate and then run through your tail light circuit, which will turn on the monitor only when this light becomes active. Alternatively, you can connect it to the running light bulb and have it in active mode as long as you have running lights on. And as for the screen, it gets power from the cigarette adapter charger.
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- Good image quality.
- Excellent night vision.
- Long signal range.
- Unobtrusive 5 inch monitor.
- Lots of adjustability.
- Wide 150-degree viewing angle.
- Includes all the connecting hardware.
- Easy installation.
- 2 year warranty.
- The installation instructions are not very clear but there are videos online that can help with process.
- The monitor is a bit smaller compared to other models on this list.
Furrion FOS43TASF Vision S
Furrion FOS43TASF has also earned a place on our list of best RV rear view camera system reviews. It’s a durable, intelligent system that offers plenty of impressive features.
The unique capabilities of this RV backup camera include multiple features. First of all, it features a digital wireless connection between the display and camera. The built-in digital transmitter and CMOS sensor deliver high quality, full color uninterrupted videos without any interference from other devices. Moreover, the wide 120-degree angle ensures that you get sufficient rear view visibility with minimal blind spots.
Another advantage of this rear view camera is the monitor. It measures 4.3 inches, though there’s also an option of 5 inches and 7 inches for the same model.
There’s plenty of adjustability that you can do on the display. You can adjust brightness, color, and image orientation. You can also turn on or off distance grid lines.
The camera also offers excellent night vision. It’s equipped with 8 infrared LED lights that surround the camera lens, which provides clear night time vision. And during the daytime, the intelligent IR cut filters block the infrared light in order to provide natural-looking images.
This camera can also be used as a means of surveillance. It features motion detection, which automatically turns on the camera and displays the image. For extra security, you can mount one of these cameras over a door or on the back of the vehicle. Moreover, there’s a built-in microphone in the camera, which can transmit audio to the monitor inside.
It’s also a camera that is suitable for all vehicle sizes, including RVs, motorhomes, and 5thwheels. It has been tested for 50 feet at high speeds and for up to 492 feet in open spaces.
One more thing we like about this wireless backup camera system is its durability. It features a solid metal construction that is dust resistant and waterproof. It has a rating of IP65, which means that the camera has complete protection from dust and water. And it can handle low-pressure jets of directed water from any angle. This means that this camera can easily withstand outside element exposure.
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- Sleek design.
- Solid waterproof construction.
- Motion detection.
- Long range signal strength.
- Audio transmission.
- Adjustable monitor settings.
- Auto dimming.
- Parking assist grid lines.
- Can display up to 4 cameras.
- Simple installation.
- Mounting hardware included.
- Expensive.
- The 120 degree angle is slightly narrower compared to some of the other models on this list.
- Has a small monitor, though it’s also available with a bigger one.
Zeroxclub W01
The Zeroxclub W01 wireless rear view camera is also one of the best on today’s market. It’s well built, offers peak video quality and provides a wireless signal that stays smooth even if you’re driving at high-speeds on a highway.
To start with, the camera comes with a large 7-inch LCD display. It features advanced IPS technology, providing a clear image, better color, better 150-degree viewing angle and faster response without any delay. The result is a crystal clear image with very smooth video quality.
The monitor receives a wireless signal from the camera, eliminating the need for any hardwiring and making the whole installation process a lot easier.
The camera is equipped with 18 infrared lights and a CCD sensor, offering superior night vision. Moreover, the screen of the monitor is auto dimmable, so it stays very clear even in low light and night conditions.
It’s also a well built camera that is designed to withstand the elements of outdoor use. It features rating IP69, which means that it meets waterproof standards and can withstand rain or snow without any damage. For further protection, the camera is also equipped with an upgraded glass lens. On one hand, extends the life of the camera. And on the other hand, provides a clearer image and makes sure that the lens doesn’t get deformed by sunlight.
You’ll also like the ease of installation. Mount the screen on your dashboard, plug it into the cigarette lighter, secure the camera on the back of your RV and connect it to your reverse lights. That’s it. The camera is ready for use. With this installation, the camera will automatically turn on every time your reverse lights are activated.
The main drawback of this RV wireless backup camera is the lower receiver range. The maximum range is 30 feet and anything lower might start giving you a shaky transmission. So, if you have a class ‘A’ motorhome, this rear view camera might not be the best option for you.
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- Great reception range.
- Clear video image.
- Adjustable brightness.
- Adjustable image orientation.
- 18 LEDs provide excellent night vision.
- The camera can swivel 360 degrees.
- Reasonable price.
- Low receiver range.
- The manufacturer doesn’t provide the instructions or the manual in the box.
- Some users had a problem mounting the camera on a vertical surface, such as the back of an RV. But the manufacturer has since solved this issue by providing an upgraded bracket.
DVKNM TZ101
The DVKNM TZ101 is another great RV rear view camera. It’s easy to use and offers a list of convenient features that will make your driving safer and easier.
For one, this backup camera offers some of the best video resolution. The monitor is a digital display with 1280×720 pixel resolution. This provides a super clear image that will not be color cast. And as for night vision, there are 18 infrared lights, which provide perfect illumination for the rear side of your vehicle and making it safer reversing at night. You can also adjust the monitor to your needs. For example, you can control the brightness, color, and contrast.
To further help you with reversing, this RV backup camera also offers a wide 140-degree viewing angle, improving your road vision and leaving out any blind spots. The monitor also offers parking assistance lines that you can use for reference on how much room you have left behind you. And the camera view can also be switched between normal and mirrored view.
The included monitor can also support two cameras V1/V2. V1 is designed for road observation when you’re driving. And when you are parking and reversing, the monitor automatically switches to V2.
This is also a very durable RV backup camera. It features all-metal construction and the surface is finished with alloy paint, which provides anti-corrosion properties. So, you don’t have to worry about driving with this camera in the rain. The exposure to elements will not affect its normal work.
Installing this camera is also fairly easy, though it is a wired system, so it does require connecting the camera with the monitor. The connecting cable is more than 65 feet long, which gives plenty of length to span most RVs. The monitor plugs into the cigarette lighter and the camera powers from the connecting cable. This eliminates the need for any batteries or any wiring to the exterior circuit.
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- 7 inch display.
- High resolution image.
- 18 infrared night vision lights.
- Waterproof durable design.
- The monitor can support up to 2 cameras.
- Parking assistance lines.
- Mirrored image.
- Image adjustability.
- 140-degree viewing angle.
- Includes a remote controller.
- Includes installation hardware.
- 1 year warranty.
- Affordable.
- Some users had issues disabling the guide lines, not being able to turn them off. However, it seems like the manufacturer has since resolved this issue.
Rear View Safety RVS-770613
The next good RV backup camera to earn a spot on our list is the Rear View Safety RVS-770613. It’s one of the most recommended RV backup cameras as it comes with a unique set of features, which make maneuvering an RV a lot easier and safer.
The whole thing is built very well with a heavy duty, commercial grade construction. It features IP69K rating, which is the highest existing IP rating. This rating means that the camera is completely waterproof and it can work perfectly fine in all weather conditions. Moreover, the camera is also shock resistant, featuring a 20G vibration rating and 100G impact rating. That is some of the best durability in the industry.
The camera comes with a 7-inch digital TFT LCD display that offers a pixel resolution of 800×480. The digital image is super sharp and clear, without any flickering. It also has an impressive signal-to-noise ratio, minimizing any visual or static artifacts on the display.
And the night vision is just as good. There are 18 infrared lights, which allow seeing up to 50 feet in complete darkness. Even if there’s no ambient light, you’ll still be able to see the rear side of your vehicle brightly and clearly.
The monitor is also auto dimmable, automatically adjusting the brightness of the screen based on ambient light. So, during the day it’s super bright and during the night, it’s dimmed.
Another great feature of this backup camera is the three channel multiplexer, which allows the system to handle up to three cameras. This particular model includes just one camera but you can purchase two additional cameras and create a complete system.
Other advantages of this backup camera system include a wide 130-degree viewing angle and a built-in mic in the camera, so you on your monitor you get not only visual but also audio information.
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- Extremely durable.
- Large 7 inch display.
- Sharp image quality.
- Includes distance grid lines.
- Excellent 18 infrared light night vision.
- Wide 130-degree viewing angle.
- Includes both audio and visual transmission.
- Can handle up to 3 cameras.
- 1 year warranty.
- Instructions are a bit vague.
- This is a wired RV backup camera, which makes the installation a bit more complicated.
eRapta ER0202
One more popular RV rear view camera system is the eRapta ER0202. It’s a functional backup camera that will help you to park your camper or RV without worrying about your safety.
This is a heavy duty backup camera that includes 4 waterproof cameras with a rating of IP69K. So you can use it whether it’s raining, snowing or very hot. This camera is fully waterproof and dust proof and is perfect for all weather conditions.
The camera also boasts a high quality HD display. It measures 7 inches and provides a crystal clear image that can be split into 4-screen view. Equipped with 18 infrared lights and advanced CMOS sensors, the camera also offers amazing night vision capabilities, making it safer to reverse both day and night.
Moreover, this rear view camera also offers a wide 130-degree angle. This is the best angle to get real road conditions, making reversing with your RV a lot easier and safer.
However, keep in mind that this is not a wireless backup camera. Instead, this model requires hardwiring, so you connect the camera to the monitor with a cable. This makes the whole installation process a bit more complicated but gives a more reliable image transmission.
For the installation, the camera comes with two 50 foot long cables and two 30 foot long ones, which connect the camera and monitor. This length should be enough for most RVs, campers, motorhomes and trailers. Additionally, the product includes mounts, a power cable, and a remote control.
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- 7 inch monitor.
- Good quality image.
- Great night vision technology.
- Waterproof design.
- Wide viewing angle.
- Includes 4 cameras.
- Adjustable sunvisor.
- Distance guide lines.
- 2 year warranty.
- Easy installation.
- Instructions are difficult to understand but there online videos to help.
- Installation is trickier than with wireless systems.
Yakry Y31 Wireless Backup Camera
We would also like to recommend the Yakry model as a great RV wireless backup camera system. It’s suitable for cars, RVs, and trailers, making this a versatile system that will help you eliminate blind spots no matter what you’re driving.
This upgraded wireless backup camera can work for any vehicle that is under 60 feet in total length, which covers most recreational vehicles. And as for the open empty area, it has a maximum working range of 984 feet. That is an impressive range that you won’t find on that many other backup cameras.
Another impressive thing about this camera is the durability of its design. It features an IP69K rating, which is the highest you can get. This means that the camera will continue to work without any damage even in extreme weather conditions. It can withstand rain, snow, high and low temperatures.
As for the monitor, it measures 7 inches and provides color HD clear images. You can mount the monitor anywhere you want, such as on the dashboard, windshield, or anywhere else.
For night vision, the camera features 12 infrared lights, which offer a grey scale but still a very good quality night image.
You can also purchase an additional camera and have road observation in both situations of driving and reversing. And you can view both cameras at the same time with the monitor’s split screen ability.
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- For vehicles up to 60 feet.
- 7 inch LCD display.
- Wireless transmission.
- Reversing guide lines.
- Waterproof with IP69K rating.
- 12 infrared lights for night reversing.
- Split screen ability if you install a second camera.
- 150-degree viewing angle.
- Image flip.
- Easy installation.
- Includes all the hardware.
- The extras, like the windshield mount and the extension antenna are free add-ons. To receive, you need to contact customer support.
- The colors on the screen are sometimes a bit off.
Leekooluu LK3 Rear View Camera
One more highly recommended RV backup camera system is the Leekooluu model. It’s a wireless system that is suitable for a wide range of vehicles. For slow speed reversing, the camera can provide reliable image transmission for vehicles up to 80 feet. And for high speed driving, it’s compatible with vehicles up to 60 feet long. So, this camera can handle larger trailers, 5th wheels, and motorhomes.
Moreover, this backup camera also boasts crystal clear image quality on its HD 1080p screen. It features a CCD sensor, which provides a sharp and clear image both day and night. You also get a 149 degree viewing angle, placing the rear side of your vehicle in your full view. The camera also offers adjustable reversing guide lines and a mirrored image view.
As for its durability, this RV rear view camera has a rating of IP69K, which means that it can safely work even in extreme weather conditions. It has good protection against water, dust, high and low temperatures.
The installation of this wireless backup camera system is fairly easy. You just need to connect to power either through the cigarette lighter or through the backup lights and then install the monitor.
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- Wireless system.
- 4.3 inch monitor.
- HD image quality.
- Long signal range.
- 149-degree viewing angle.
- IP69K rating, showing great durability.
- User-friendly installation.
- Affordable price.
- 2 year warranty.
- Significant pixelation when moving.
Rohent RV Backup Camera
The last RV backup camera that made into our top 10 in 2021 list s the Rohent model. It’s one of the more affordable options that also delivers on the features and quality.
The monitor features a built-in wireless receiver, so you don’t need to wire it to the camera. It transmits the images wirelessly. As for powering the monitor plugs into the cigarette lighter and the camera connects to the taillight.
This camera is built using high quality materials and features a design that is waterproof and weather resistant. With an IP69K rating, it’s the most durable RV backup camera design you can get.
The system also has a long range signal. For reversing, it can be used on vehicles up 80 feet long. However, at higher speeds, the image will become unstable. So, if you’ll be using the camera for high speed road observation, this camera is more suitable for vehicles under 60 feet.
Moreover, the 7 inch monitor provides high quality, color images. You get a good image of the rear side of your vehicle both day and night. At day time, you get color HD quality. And at night time, you get 12 LED IR quality.
On the monitor, you can adjust a few settings. For example, you can choose to have the reverse guide lines to be either on or off. You can also flip the image for a mirrored or front view. And you can switch between one screen and split screen viewing (if you have the second camera installed).
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- Long signal range.
- 7 inch display.
- Clear HD color images.
- 12 LED IR night vision.
- Split screen ability.
- 150-degree lens viewing angle.
- IP69K waterproof rating.
- Easy installation.
- 3 different mount options.
- 2 year warranty.
- Great customer support.
- The monitor is a bit bulky.
- The windshield mount is available for free but you have to contact the manufacturer.
What Is an RV Backup Camera?
This is a helpful device that you can install on the rear side of your recreational vehicle. It’s purpose is to assist you in dealing with the challenges of reversing your RV, which can be quite difficult with such a large vehicle. A backup camera ensures that there are no blind spots, preventing any backup collision. With the help of a backup camera, you can clearly see the road behind you by viewing the transmitted picture on a monitor close to the driver.
The majority of vehicles today, recreational vehicles included, already come equipped with a backup camera. However, if you have an older RV model, you might not have it. But to be compliant with the law, all vehicles have to include a reverse camera for extra safety. That’s why if your RV doesn’t have a backup camera, you should definitely look into buying one.
How Does an RV Backup Camera Work?
How an RV backup camera works depends on how you install it and whether it’s wireless or hardwired system.
If you have a wireless rear view camera system, you will have two installation options. You can either connect it to the reversing light or to the running light. Depending on which option you choose, you will either have the camera activated only when you reverse or you will have it continue working as you drive on a highway.
The hardwired systems usually connect to the monitor with a cable. So, they are not light activated. Instead, you have to turn the camera on and off manually.
Benefits of RV Backup Cameras
- Safety. The main reason to add a backup camera to your RV gear is of course safety. You may be an excellent RV driver but you have to admit that reversing one of these huge rigs can be a real challenge since there are so many blind spots. And you can reduce the risk of a possible collision with any objects that may behind your vehicle by installing a backup camera. It will make maneuvering into or out of a parking lot or a tight space a lot easier and safer.
- Better parking. Most rear view cameras offer assistance grid lines, which help you see if you’re properly aligned in your parking space. No more second attempts or asking someone to guide you. So, you can get perfect parking and without backing into something or someone.
- Convenience. These RV backup cameras are also very convenient to use. Especially if you’re installing a wireless system, you won’t even have to do even wiring or cable work. Anyone can complete the installation without any professional help needed. This convenience makes it a must-have for vehicles since it can also make your life a lot easier and less stressful.
- Law compliance. As of 2014, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation decree all vehicles should include a backup camera for safer driving. If you have a new RV model, it’s probably already equipped with the reverse camera. However, older models might not have it. And if you don’t have one, you should consider getting one to be compliant with the law.
What to Look for the Best RV Backup Camera
As you can see, there are many reasons to invest in an RV reverse camera. But how to choose the best RV backup camera among such a vast amount of options that are available on the market? If you have no idea what to look for, in this buying guide we’ll cover the main things you should keep in mind to find a camera system that is right for you.
Wireless or Not
To start with, you should decide if you want a wireless backup camera system or not.
A wireless camera uses a wireless transmitter to receive and transmit images from the backup camera to the monitor screen. The main advantage of this type of RV backup camera is the ease of installation since it doesn’t require running any wires or cables in your vehicle.
However, keep in mind that these systems aren’t completely wireless. You still have to wire it to an existing power in your vehicle, which is usually the reverse taillight. The wireless in this instance means that there’s no wire between the camera and monitor.
The main disadvantage of this system is that the transmission can be unreliable, especially when used driving at high speeds or on longer recreational vehicles. It also typically has a shorter transmission distance than the wired type.
A wired backup camera system offers top quality images with a longer transmission range. So, if you have a longer vehicle, this might be a better option for you. But keep in mind that this type usually requires more complicated installation, especially if your RV isn’t wired yet for a reverse camera system. So, it would require running a cable from the rear side camera mount all the way to the monitor.
If your RV already has wiring for the camera, the wired type might be better for you. Otherwise, a wireless backup camera system seems a more practical and more user-friendly option.
Signal Range
Another factor to consider when buying a new RV backup camera is the signal range. Look for a camera system that is compatible with your RV’s length. If it’s a wireless system, it should be able to transmit the image for the required length without any interference. And if it’s a wired system, it should come with a cable that is long enough for your vehicle. Otherwise, you might not be able to get a clear image or the image will be lagging.
Frequency Signal
If you’re thinking of buying a wireless reverse camera, you should also take into account that they use either digital or analog signal transmission. We’d recommend choosing a digital camera since it’s not as susceptible to interference as the analog camera. With an analog backup camera, you might get interference from all the devices surrounding your vehicle or you might even get backup images transmitted to your monitor from other vehicle’s cameras.
Image Quality
A good feature of a high quality RV rear view camera is also good image quality. It should be sharp enough, so you could clearly see what is behind your vehicle since this will determine the safety of your reverse driving.
Also, look for features that would help with better monitor viewing in different lighting conditions. Some of the customizable options can include adjustments to color, brightness, and contrast. You can adjust these settings to suit your preferences and the light conditions that you’re driving in.
Monitor Quality
When it comes to monitoring quality, consider its size and how user-friendly it is. The best monitor should have at least a 4 inches screen. Though, it can also be as big as 7 inches, which will provide better viewing and improve the safety of your reversing. Choosing a monitor that is bigger or smaller should depend on your eyesight and whether you would prefer a unit less bulky or something more visible.
As for the user-friendliness, take into account how easy is it to use it. Is it easy to switch between settings and does it automatically turn on when you need to reverse your RV?
Also, it’s an advantage if the monitor has auto-dimming, which would provide better visibility of the screen in all lighting conditions. Other useful features that a monitor can include are adjustability of color, brightness, and contrast. All these features will help you get a more clear view of what is behind your vehicle, so you could carry out a safer reverse.
Viewing Angle
The viewing angle of the camera’s lens is also extremely important as it determines the area that the camera covers behind your RV. A wider field of view will give a perfect view of any blind spots and will guarantee the ease and safety of reverse driving.
A backup camera designed for recreational vehicles should have a viewing angle of at least 90 degrees. However, there are plenty of RV backup cameras with a wider viewing angle. Some offer it as wide as 150 degrees. But anything between 120 and 150 degrees should be fine. Anything wider will make the image distorted on the monitor. And anything narrower will give you a limited view of the rear side of your vehicle and might leave blind spots.
Night Vision
You will most likely be parking your vehicle not only in broad daylight. There are probably instances when you need to park your RV at dawn or at night. And a good RV rear view camera should be able to transmit a high quality image at night. For this, they are usually fitted with infrared LED lights that illuminate the area behind your vehicle, giving you visibility even if it’s pitch dark outside. And cameras with a higher amount of infrared lights will usually have better night visibility.
Weather Resistance
One more vital factor that determines if an RV backup camera is of good quality or not is its built quality. Since you mount the camera on the rear side of your vehicle outside, it will be under the constant effect of various weather elements, such as rain, snow, heat, and dust. That’s why the body of the backup camera should be able to withstand all weather conditions, which will ensure that it will last for a prolonged period of time.
First of all, look for a camera with a durable construction that should have a metal body and anti-corrosion finish paint. Secondly, check the manufacturer’s specifications to see the IP rating that the product has. A camera with IP6 rating means that the unit is waterproof and it can withstand being hit with powerful jets of water. These units are also freeze-proof and work well in high heat conditions. So, for a good weather resistant backup camera, look for IP rating IP65 to IP69 or IP69K.
Auto Power On
This feature comes included in most wireless backup camera systems. But it’s missing on wired systems. For this feature to work, you need to connect your backup camera to the RV’s reverse light and then you can expect the camera to activate automatically each time you start reversing your vehicle. This feature offers extra convenience when using the backup camera system.
Mounting Options
Unless you plan on taking your new RV rear view camera to a professional for the installation, you want to find a unit that is fairly easy to install. A tricky installation can easily make you regret buying that product.
If you want an easier installation, then opt for a wireless system since it requires less work. However, here, you’ll also have a few installation options. For example, some cameras can only be surface mounted, so they can be installed only on a flat surface at the rear of your vehicle. Others are flush mounted, creating a more discreet and sleek look. And lastly, there are the license plate mounted backup cameras, which eliminates the need for drilling any holes or making other modifications to the exterior of your vehicle.
When considering these installation options, choose one that is more suitable for your vehicle’s configuration and that is more compatible with your needs.
Mounting Hardware
When searching for the perfect RV reverse camera, check also if the product comes with all mounting hardware included. This will make the installation process easier and quicker. It will eliminate the hassle of having to find the right hardware for the precise camera that you’ve bought.
And if you’re buying an RV backup camera replacement, make sure that the mounting fits your existing hardware. Otherwise, you might have to drill extra holes or do other modifications, which you would probably rather avoid.
Other Features
There are a few other features that RV backup cameras can offer. They include assistance guide lines, the ability to adjust the field of view and the ability to flip the image. These features can be helpful for reversing an RV. And they are included in most backup cameras.
Price
The price should also be an important determining factor in your buying decision. Deciding on a certain budget will help you narrow down the RV backup camera options to a more manageable amount. And from there, you can choose the best product for your particular needs.
The best RV backup camera for the money will cost about $100 to $200, though you can also find cheap cameras as low as $50. In this range, you can find the best value for money with cameras that offer really good quality and performance..
A lower price might mean lower quality or fewer features. Some of the lower priced backup cameras also don’t include all the mounting hardware and have the camera lens with a narrower viewing angle.
And a higher priced backup cameras are high-end models that can offer some of the most advanced features. They can include the best image quality, less interference, and motion sensor activation.
Warranty
The last thing factor that you shouldn’t skip is the warranty that comes with the RV backup camera system. Most of these products come with a 1 year warranty and some also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. This would allow you to test a camera first before you head out for a trip. And if there are any issues with the backup camera, you could ask for a replacement or a refund.
RV Backup Camera Tips
- RV backup cameras are not meant to completely substitute a rear view or side view mirror. So, when reversing, still check the mirrors and look over your shoulder from time to time in order to be sure that you’re getting the right image transmitted from the camera.
- Since the reverse camera will be under constant exposure to outdoor elements, such as dirt, dust, rain, and snow, regularly clean the lens to make sure that you get a clear image when reversing. You can use a soft dry cloth and an alcohol-based solution.
- When you receive and install the camera, start by learning how to use it. Practice using it in your driveway and if necessary, make any adjustments to the camera mounting to ensure that you have a good field of view behind your vehicle. And when you feel comfortable using the reverse camera, you’re ready to hit the road.
RV Backup Camera FAQs
Where to mount your RV backup camera?
It depends on the mounting options offered by the reverse camera that you have bought. So, check your device’s manual before doing anything. There you would find recommendations on where to mount your backup camera for the best performance. However, typically, backup cameras are installed at the bottom center of the RV’s rear side. This usually means around the license plate.
Do backup cameras reduce accidents?
They do. They reduce injuries and damage caused by backing up a vehicle because they provide the driver with a better view of the area behind the vehicle. For example, between 2008 and 2011, the amount of vehicles sold with installed backup cameras has more than doubled. And the number of injuries caused by vehicles backing up has decreased by about 8 percent.
Can you hook up the reverse camera to a monitor that’s already built into your RV?
It’s possible the existing monitor supports the video system coming from the camera. If they’re incompatible, you might have to make modifications to the RV’s circuitry system in order to connect the two units.
Can I leave my backup camera on all the time?
The simple answer is yes. But for that, you have to wire it correctly. There are three ways that you can do it. You can connect your camera to a constant power source, such as the cigarette lighter socket. You can connect it to your vehicle’s ignition, so the camera will turn on every time you start the engine. Or you can connect it to a cigarette lighter socket and run the wire through a switch, which would allow turning the camera on and off with the help of a button.
How to install an RV rear view camera?
There are different installation methods that are applied for different trailer and motorhome backup cameras. And you’ll find the specific instructions for your particular camera supplied by the manufacturer. To ensure proper RV backup camera installation, always follow the instructions supplied in the manual. But below, you can find general guidelines that will give you an idea of how the installation process goes.
- Connect the monitor to the vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket by using the supplied cigarette lighter adapter.
- Connect the monitor’s trigger wire to the reverse light, which would cause it to turn on every time you put your vehicle in reverse.
- Mount the monitor on the windshield or the dashboard in a spot that would be easily viewed from the driver’s position.
- Screw the mounting bracket for the camera to the back of your RV. The position of the bracket will depend on the bracket that you have been supplied and the vehicle’s configuration. If you drill any holes in your vehicle, use silicone sealant to prevent any chance of leaks.
- Connect the camera to the RV’s reverse light.
- If you have a wireless backup camera system all is left to do is use Bluetooth to sync the camera and monitor together. And after that, your system should be in working order.
- And if you have a wired system, then you also need to run a cable from the camera to the monitor.
How to use a backup camera correctly?
- Walk around your RV and check the area for any obstacles or objects in order to ensure that there’s enough space for you to back up.
- Once seated, check again behind your RV by looking over both of your shoulders and checking the side mirrors.
- Shift into reverse, which would activate the backup camera, and then start reversing by continuing checking the camera image, vehicle’s side mirrors, and surroundings.
How to clean a backup camera?
To ensure a clear image of your backup camera, it’s important to regularly clean it. To do that, use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any dust, dirt, or other debris. Next, use a cleaner of your choice, add it to the cloth, and then wipe with it the lens.
Why is my backup camera’s screen black?
If you’re getting a black screen on your backup camera’s monitor, the issue could be in fraying wire or in a faulty connection. To fix this issue, inspect the wires for any damage and if required, do repairs. If there isn’t any damage, check all the connections and make sure that everything is fully connected.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best RV backup camera is not an easy task since there are so many options available. However, if you know the features to look for and by checking out RV backup camera reviews and comparisons, the process can be a lot easier. We hope that with the information in this article you’ll be able to find the perfect camera that will guarantee you safer and more convenient RV driving.