How To Choose The Right Wireless Backup Camera For Your RV
Many RVers struggle to reverse and maneuver their RVs, but as time has passed, technology has advanced to make backing up an RV less daunting. Backup cameras (aka “rearview cameras”) relieve the stress of driving by eliminating blind spots, helping avoid obstacles, and making parking safer. However, knowing which backup camera to select can be challenging, given the many options available. Read on for our tips for choosing the right backup camera for your RV.
Why Use A Backup Camera?
If there is one accessory to invest in for your RV, it’s a backup camera. They’re commonly used on motorhomes (RVUniverse.com includes listings for Class A, Class B, Class B+, Class C, and Class Super C models), fifth wheels, travel trailers, and toy haulers, but drivers of smaller RVs such as truck campers benefit from wireless backup cameras, too.
Many modern recreational vehicles are built with camera prep, meaning they are pre-wired for easy installation, and adding a backup camera can offer several key benefits:
Improved Visibility & Safety
Backup cameras are especially effective when reversing in campsites, parking lots, and any tight spaces. They minimize your blind spots, thus reducing the risk of accidents and damage.
Towing Assistance
Backup cameras can monitor trailers or towed vehicles behind your RV, ensuring they are correctly aligned while traveling. They can also make it easier to hook up a trailer to begin with!
Less Stress
Using a backup camera means less stress about road travel. A real-time view of your surroundings helps keep you aware of the many vehicles and other objects around your RV.
How To Pick The Right Camera
When choosing the right camera for your RV, it’s a good idea first to establish your preferences and research the various features available in cameras on the market to help you choose the most compatible camera for your RV.
Wired vs. Wireless
Both wired and wireless backup camera options are available. As you’d guess, wired systems require you to run physical wires from the camera through the vehicle to the monitor. These systems are best for the largest RVs, including Class A motorhomes and other extra-long campers where a wireless setup might risk occasionally losing the signal and leaving you without the video feed you need to back up your home away from home safely.
While the physical connection provides more consistent and accurate video quality, you must consider where and how to install the wires. If you are unfamiliar with wiring, hiring a professional may be the solution, but it will obviously cost more than installing a DIY system.
Wireless camera systems are becoming increasingly popular because they are easy to install and there are many available models. These systems are great options for those on a budget, and you don’t usually have to hire a professional for installation. Again, however, a wired connection will generally provide you with a stronger, more reliable connection than a wireless system.
Single- vs. Multi-Camera Systems
Depending on your specific needs and preferences, you may only need one backup camera, or you might want multiple cameras in order to see your rearward path from more angles. Multi-camera systems are generally more expensive but offer back and side coverage—and more information is definitely better when backing up a 40-foot RV.
Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to consider whether you will frequently find yourself on narrow roads or campsites where multiple cameras are necessary.
Top Wireless Backup Camera Picks
Here is a list of top-rated wireless backup cameras. This list includes something for every budget.
1. ZEROXCLUB II Digital Wireless Backup Kit
This kit includes a rearview camera and a 7-inch split monitor with record functions, guide lines, and infrared light for night vision at $159.99. Other ZEROXCLUB systems add additional side-view cameras.
2. eRapta Digital Wireless Dual Backup Camera
The eRapta system features a multi-function monitor equipped with 16 infrared lights and a CCD sensor that displays images in high definition up to 1080P, priced just under $300.
3. Furrion Vision S Camera System
Although it’s a little pricier than some options in this list at $575.95, Furrion’s Vision S Single Camera System offers night vision, rear audio transmission, a motion detector and auto-wake function for extra security when your RV is parked, and three high-resolution display size options. Multiple camera options are also available.
4. Haloview Range Dominator 4-Camera System
Recommended for rigs 33 to 80 feet (10 to 24 meters) long, this system rings in at $678.99. It features a 7-in. split-screen display, 720P HD video with DVR function, night vision, camera mics that detect sounds for added safety, side cameras that replace your RV’s marker lights, and more.
Find New & Used RVs For Sale Near You
If you’re currently in the market for an RV, check out the thousands of listings on RVUniverse.com from popular manufacturers like Coachmen, Forest River, Jayco, Thor Motor Coach, and more.