RV Backup Cameras Buyer’s Guide

There’s more to the humble RV backup camera than you might think. From the technical specifications to the installation process and putting the technology into action, there’s a lot to learn about this exciting piece of tech.

And that’s why we’ve put together this in-depth buyer’s guide, to give the backup camera novice (or expert) the necessary knowledge to purchase the most appropriate model for their needs.

The Benefits of an RV Backup Camera

Backup cameras typically cost several hundred dollars and can be a pain to install.

So are they worth the hassle?

In a word: yes. The RV backup camera entails a variety of important benefits, which we’ll outline below.

Stress-Free Reversing

Larger vehicles like RVs have a massive blind spot out the back, making moving in reverse nerve-wracking even under favorable conditions. For all you know, there could be a chair, a car, or campsite directly in your path. Having a backup camera installed in your RV makes it easy to see exactly what’s behind you, so you needn’t stress about running over anything.

And if you’re a nervous driver who’s new to operating a large vehicle, that extra peace of mind is a godsend.

Easier Parking

The bigger the vehicle, the harder it is to park. And even if you’re cruising about in a modest Class B RV, your rig is still going to be a good 15 feet long. Although you can use your mirrors to line up the perfect angle for a reverse park, it’s nigh on impossible to tell what’s going on at the back end due to the blind spot. Should you reverse back even an inch too far, you could crunch into the bumper of a pristine late-model Mercedes, and then you’d have plenty of explaining to do.

A backup camera will let you know precisely how close your rear bumper is to the bollard, car, or whatever else is right behind you. That way, you can easily pull off a daunting reverse park without having to worry about the big blind spot at the back.

Enhanced Safety

While backing into a car or reversing over a camping chair is embarrassing and potentially costly, it’s not that much of a big deal—that’s what insurance is for, after all. Backing over a child, on the other hand, could be a deadly mistake.

In the United States, back over accidents kill around 200 people per year and injure over 12,000. Many of the victims are children—if you’ve ever spent time at an RV park, you know kids run around unsupervised all the time.

As backup cameras allow the driver to see what’s directly behind them, the technology reduces the likelihood of a fatal accident by a significant degree. So much so, in fact, that the Department of Transportation mandated the inclusion of a backup camera in all new vehicles (including RVs) sold from May 2018.

So if you’re planning to purchase a late model or brand new RV, then you don’t need to worry about looking for a backup camera as it’ll already come installed in the rig.

Wired Versus Wireless RV Backup Cameras

The first thing you need to decide when looking at a new backup camera is whether you want wired or wireless. In this day and age, it’s fair to assume wireless would be your best bet. And while the technology may be the superior option for many of our everyday gizmos, that’s not necessarily the case with a reversing camera.

Wired RV Backup Cameras

As you’d assume, wired backup cameras have physical wiring that connects the camera to the display screen installed on your dash, from where it will draw enough power to operate (much like your AC, it only works when the engine is running).

Although perhaps a bit “old school,” wired reversing cameras are the option of choice for keen RVers who live in their rigs full time.

Wired Backup Camera Pros

• Improved Image Quality: The wiring that connects the camera to the display can transmit more information at a higher speed than a wireless setup. Therefore, these systems will deliver a superior image that’s never grainy or fuzzy.
• Enhanced Reliability: Wireless signals are susceptible to interference, whether it’s a physical barrier or a competing signal (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.). Adverse weather conditions like heavy rain or snow can also interfere with the signal, ultimately resulting in a subpar image.
• More Available Options: As wired backup cameras have been the preferred option for many years, there are a plethora of different options to choose from. And this abundance of choice makes it easier to find the perfect model for you.

Wired Backup Camera Cons

• Hard to Install: While a wireless system is simple to hook up, a wired one isn’t so easy. You’ll have to attach the display to your dash, hook into the dashboard power supply, and run wiring all the way to the camera on the back. Most RVers choose to enlist professional help.
• Expensive: As wired systems have superior quality cameras and screens, they tend to be more expensive than wireless systems. And unless you’re a DIY superstar, chances are you’ll need to pay an auto electrician to do the install, and these guys don’t come cheap.
• Tricky to Repair: If part of the wiring should break, you’ll need to pull all the wiring out to locate and reconnect the failed section. Although the process isn’t exceptionally difficult or time-consuming, it will usually require a trained professional.

If you think a wired camera is right for you, the Yakry is an excellent model to consider.

Wireless RV Backup Cameras

Rather than wiring cables through your RV, the wireless system transmits a signal from the camera to a receiver on your dash. Consequently, it’s far easier to install—DIY is definitely on the cards—but the signal may suffer due to interference and/or range issues.

Wireless Backup Camera Pros

• Simple Installation: Even the novice DIYer can install a wireless reversing camera themselves—the process takes a few minutes from start to finish and doesn’t require any special skills. Consequently, you’ll save money by not enlisting a professional for the install.
• Better Integration: Wireless technology is compatible with devices apart from your display. It’s possible, for example, to connect a wireless camera to your smartphone or an existing screen on your dash (which is sometimes possible with wired, but always more difficult).
• More Cost-Effective: Wireless backup cameras tend to be cheaper than wired models, usually because they come with inferior quality cameras and screens. Furthermore, the fact you can do a DIY install will further help reduce the total price.

Wireless Backup Camera Cons

• Low-Quality Images: Wireless technology transmits data at a far slower rate than wired. Therefore, a wireless camera will have an inferior resolution, making it difficult to discern the finer details.
• Interference Issues: Wireless technology is prone to interference, either from other wireless signals (say, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) or adverse weather like rain and fog. When interference occurs, your display image may become fuzzy or grainy, at times almost impossible to see.
• Low Range: Wireless signals lose their strength after a certain distance, and the exact range depends on the quality of the transmitter and receiver. If you install a low-end wireless camera on the back of a long RV, then you’ll likely be unsatisfied with the results.

If you believe a wireless camera suits you best, then check out the the wireless offering from Furrion.

What to Consider With the Display Screen

Do you desire crystal clear clarity, or would you be happy with a grainy image if it’s going to save you cash?

Although the camera specifications do come into play, the main factor that affects the final image is the quality of the display. Be sure to consider the screen size and resolution when shopping for the ideal unit for you.

If you want a display to double as an entertainment system, you might consider opting for something bigger and with a better resolution. Always check to ensure your preferred product is compatible with the relevant entertainment platform.

Screen Size

Screen size varies from model to model and typically ranges from 4 to 9 inches diagonally. The larger the screen, the easier it is to see the necessary detail, so it’s worth investing in something with at least five inches.

Should you have poor eyesight or just like the look of a bigger screen, then there’s no harm in going for something a bit bigger.

Resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, which ultimately affects the quality of the image. A high number of pixels will appear sharp and clear, while a screen with few pixels looks blurry and pixelated.

While you don’t necessarily need near-perfect image clarity when backing up an RV, you do at least want to ascertain what’s behind you. At a minimum, we recommend opting for a product with 800 horizontal pixels, although more is always better.

Aside from pixels, image resolution can also be affected by the wiring and transmission source. Interference from a wireless camera, for example, will have a detrimental effect on your image.

What to Consider With the Camera

The display is only part of the equation; you need to consider what you want out of the camera component too. RV backup cameras vary in terms of the field of view, night vision capability, and weather resistance rating.

Field of View

Sometimes referred to as the “viewing angle,” the field of view refers to the width of the camera angle, which we measure in degrees. In a regular car, a field of view of 90 degrees is adequate because that allows the driver to fill in the small blind spot.

On larger vehicles such as RVs, however, the blind spot at the back is massive. Thus, the driver needs as wider an angle as possible to determine what lies behind. At a minimum, we recommend purchasing a camera with a 120-degree field of view, although there’s certainly no harm in going even wider than that.

Weather Resistance

As your RV camera will sit snugly on the exterior of your rig, it’s going to have to withstand the elements on a day-to-day basis. The manufacturers know this, which is why they’ve constructed backup cameras with a tough IPX6 or IPX7 weather resistance rating.

• An IPX6 level of waterproofing means the camera will withstand massive streams of water hitting it from any angle, as you’d expect to occur during a storm.
• IPX7 offers even better resistance, capable of withstanding being submerged in as much as one meter of water for 30 minutes.

We certainly hope you wouldn’t fully submerge your RV underwater for a moment, let alone 30 minutes (if you did, you’d have bigger things to worry about than a camera). Therefore, the fact of the matter is that an IPX6 rating will be sufficient. Aim for the higher end, if possible, such as an IP69.

Night Vision

Some high-end RV backup cameras come with built-in night vision technology, which lets the driver see what’s behind them after dark.

Now, in reality, the feature probably isn’t as essential as it sounds, considering most RVers will pull up at a campsite long before the sun has set. Nonetheless, it’s a nifty little add-on to have, especially for small Class B RVers who tend to be more mobile after dark.

We can measure a night vision camera’s effectiveness by looking at the lux rating, which refers to the amount of visible light a camera can detect while still providing a reasonably clear picture. Lower lux ratings equate to better night vision—0.1 means the camera will see clearly under a full moon.

However, most modern models use infrared technology, which can detect a heat source in total darkness. These come with LED lights to help them function, and the more lights you have, the better.

Night vision is mostly used in wireless backup cameras; wired backup cameras tend to use the vehicle’s tailgate lights as the primary light source.

Using an Existing Screen for Your Backup Camera

Most RV backup cameras come in a package, where the display is sold together with the camera.

It is, however, possible to purchase a backup camera by itself—for example, the eRapta ERT01 — and then integrate it with an existing screen located on your dash. This option offers three key advantages:

1. Save money as you don’t have to purchase a new screen
2. Save space on your dash as you only need to have one screen
3. Use your existing screen as an entertainment unit and reverse camera in one

If you decide to go down this route, you’ll need to double-check your existing display is compatible with your chosen new camera. Linking them up is pretty easy for a wireless camera, which can connect to most devices through Bluetooth. Wired cameras are more complex and often aren’t compatible with displays other than what comes in the box.

In either case, check the instruction manual of your existing display and your backup camera of choice to determine whether the two separate units will be compatible.

Purchasing a Camera and Screen Separately

While most backup cameras come with both a camera and a display, it is possible to separately purchase the two individual components.

The downside here is additional complexity—you need to ensure both units work properly together before hitting the “buy now” button. As you’re getting two separate parts from different manufacturers, the installation process will likely be more complex, and it could prove problematic to troubleshoot repairs.

So what’s the point, you may ask? This option allows you to use the precise camera and display unit you want in unison. But given the whole process is rather fiddly, we only recommend this path for advanced users with strong technical skills.

Where to Mount the Screen

An RV dash is relatively big, so it shouldn’t be all that difficult to find an appropriate place to install a screen.

Many RVers like to install the screen directly onto the horizontal surface of the dash using a vertical arm, either nailing it in or through an adhesive tape. You needn’t worry about the hot sun wreaking havoc on the screen because camera displays are specially built to withstand intense heat.

Do, however, be aware that a display located above the dash can suffer from glare. When the sun hits it at the right angle (or the wrong angle, rather), you won’t be able to see anything, and your flashy backup camera will be rendered useless.

One option is to install the screen on the dashboard, which often requires removing another component such as the factory stock radio system. Alternatively, some RVers prefer to switch out the rear-view mirror and replace it with a new one that includes a fancy in-built screen.

Where to Mount the Camera

Most RV backup cameras are installed on a bracket bolted into the back end of their rig. This simple installation option is fast and easy, plus it allows you to run the wiring through the RV with minimal fuss. Be sure to place the camera up as high as possible to achieve optimal depth perception.

If you’re worried an aftermarket backup camera could ruin the aesthetics of your rig, there are other options to consider. Some RVers do what’s called a “flush mount,” which is when you install the camera internally and drill little holes for it to peep out of. Another method is the license plate mount, where the camera is hidden away in the license plate frame where nobody can see it.

Many companies design cameras specifically for license plate use, and these are often installed in conjunction with backend mounted cameras to fill in potential blind spots.

As you’d expect, the latter two options are more complicated to install and would thus require more time and effort to pull off.

Installing a Wired RV Backup Camera

Although the precise process for installing an RV backup camera varies, you’ll likely need to complete these steps. We’re going to get pretty technical here, so get in touch with a professional instead if you’re not a confident and highly competent DIYer.

1. Disconnect the starter battery on your RV
2. Mark the spot where the camera cord will pass through the vehicle
3. Check you won’t damage any cables or trimming before drilling
4. Choose the appropriate size drill bit to bore a hole for the rubber grommet and wiring
5. Drill the hole into the marked area of the exterior and place a grommet in to hide the rough edges
6. Run the cables to the front of the car, preferably through the original wiring loom.
7. Power up your camera by connecting it to either the cab or the reversing lights
8. Link the positive and negative camera wires to the relevant light wires using a splice or a Posi-Tap connector
9. Remove part of the plastic coating on the positive light wire with a wire stripper, split the bare copper section into two parts, and feed the positive camera wire into the hole, getting it in-between the copper wiring.
10. Twist the positive camera wire around the light wire and secure the connection with electrical tape
11. Follow the preceding two steps for the negative wire

Fixing an RV Backup Camera

RV backup cameras can stop functioning correctly for a whole host of reasons. The best way to set about fixing your device depends on what’s gone wrong.

Blurry Images

A blurry image is probably the result of a dirty lens, which is an easy fix. Dirt, dust, grime, and condensation can accumulate on your lens, making the picture quality degrade over time.

For condensation, you can simply wait until it dries off, which shouldn’t take long once the sun has come out. If dirt is the issue, then clean your lens gently using a microfiber towel. Don’t try and use any old cloth as you could scratch the delicate glass surface.

Static

If your display shows either black or white static, that’s probably an issue with a faulty connection. Examine your wiring to ensure everything is connected correctly and intact. If you do find a frayed section, either repair it or replace the entire cable.

The No Signal Message

If your screen displays the dreaded “no signal” message, then the issue is probably either a blown-out fuse or a broken wire. Consult your vehicle’s instruction manual to locate and replace the relevant fuse. If it hasn’t blown, carefully examine all you’re wiring to ensure no cables have snapped or frayed.

For a wireless system, the solution could be as simple as turning it on or off again. Failing that, check the fuses and any wiring in the display.

A Black Screen

If your display is entirely black and there aren’t any flickering lights on the unit, you could have blown a fuse or have a wiring issue. Review your fuse box and check your wiring to ensure everything is in good condition.

Should the screen be black, but some of the display lights turn on, then the issue probably lies in your camera. Check all the relevant camera connections and replace them if need be.

RV Backup Camera FAQS

Still looking to learn more about RV backup cameras? We admire your curiosity, and we’ve put together an in-depth FAQ especially for folks like you.

Are RV Backup Cameras Worth It?

Reversing in an RV can be challenging, especially for newcomers who are still learning the ropes. Rather than risk a nasty accident while reversing, an RV backup camera fills in the blind spot so you can see exactly what’s behind you.

Although they may be pricey and a pain to install, RV backup cameras are worth it, especially for keen travelers who spend a lot of time in their rigs.

Which Is Better Wired or Wireless Backup Camera?

A wired backup camera is superior because it allows for faster data transmission and doesn’t suffer from interference. As a result, you’ll enjoy a better quality and more reliable image on your display.

There is a big downside, though: wired backup cameras are complicated (read: expensive) to install.

Do Wireless Backup Cameras Work Well?

While some wireless backup cameras offer excellent performance with minimal interference, others do not.

Stick to our recommendations to find a high-performing wireless unit that won’t disappoint.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Backup Camera?

The cost of installing a backup camera depends on the model in question.

The average wage for an auto electrician in America is around $75 per hour. A wireless backup camera should take under 15 minutes to install but count on paying the full $75 anyway (the good news is wireless is easy to DIY).

A wired system, on the other hand, could take a professional two or more hours to install.

Can I Leave My Backup Camera on All the Time?

Although it is possible to configure a backup camera to be on all the time (at least while driving, anyway), it depends on how you install the device.

Most people prefer to power the camera component from the reversing lights, making it turn on automatically whenever you chuck the car in reverse. But if you choose to use an alternative power source, the screen will be permanently switched on as you drive.

Where Should I Mount My Rear-View Camera?

Most RVers prefer to mount their cameras on the back end of the rig, placing it as high as possible to maximize the field of view. On RVs, license plate mountings are preferred as a second camera to complement the first.

Most car owners use a license plate camera as the primary camera because the angle is acceptable, and they bolt onto existing screws, so there’s no need to drill into the body of the car.

What Year Did Cars Get Backup Cameras?

Backup cameras became mandatory in all new cars (and RVs) sold in America in May 2018. Older cars are not currently required to retrofit a backup camera, although it is a good idea.

How Long Do Backup Cameras Last?

A backup camera’s shelf life varies depending on its quality, how often you drive, and the type of terrain you traverse—bumpy country roads aren’t great for backup cameras.

As a rule of thumb, however, you can expect your backup camera to last ten years or so.

RV Backup Cameras: Final Thoughts

If you’ve made it this far, you’re now a certified expert in the realm of backup cameras for an RV. And now that you’re a reversing camera know-it-all, the only thing left to do is find the perfect product from our top 10 list.

Once you’ve got a backup camera correctly installed in your rig, you’ll enjoy hassle-free reversing for years to come, and you won’t have to stress about accidentally reversing into a wall.