Are RV Backup Cameras Worth It? Here's The Truth -

Technological advancements have led to significant improvements in RV drivability.

Previously RVers had to struggle to see what they were doing when reversing, backing up, and trying to parallel park. Still, with the advent of RV backup cameras, these problems are, in theory, no longer something to be concerned about.

Yet, many people are still left wondering if RV backup cameras are worth the hype they generate. Additionally, many are confused about RV backup cameras and are unsure which ones are the best.

Fortunately, we’re going to analyze these aspects so that you can make an educated decision when deciding if you should equip an RV backup camera onto your motorhome:

Table of Contents

Here’s The Answer To If RV Backup Cameras Are Worth It:

RV backup cameras are beneficial as they assist drivers with tricky vehicle maneuverings and reduce the stresses associated with driving a motorhome.

They also eliminate blind spots, reduce the risk of backover accidents, and allow for easier towing, safer parking, and obstacle avoidance.

What Is An RV Backup Camera?

RV backup cameras are one of the best inventions the automotive industry has developed in recent years, but what exactly is an RV backup camera?

As the name denotes, an RV backup camera is primarily used to assist drivers with backing up out of and into places. This invention was developed to help RV drivers experience safer driving no matter where they were traveling to or from.

An RV backup camera, also commonly known as a rearview camera, shows drivers behind their motorhome via a dashboard screen when driving in reverse. Often RV backup cameras are connected to the motorhomes head unit display.

Many newer model motorhomes such as Class A, B, C, and some fifth wheels and toy haulers come equipped with a backup camera or, at the very least backup camera prep. However, if you have an older model, you can still equip a backup camera to your RV

The Different Types Of RV Backup Cameras

There are primarily two different types of RV cameras available for most motorhomes.

Below we have briefly gone into detail explaining these different types to have an idea about which is best for your RV.

Wireless RV Cameras:

Wireless RV backup cameras are not hard-wired into your motorhome, which is why they are usually easier to install.

This backup camera utilizes either digital or analog technology that sends a signal from the camera to the monitor.

Wireless cameras are favored amongst RVers because they are neater and don’t have any obtrusive cabling. Digital wireless cameras often display clearer images, but you should know that if the signal is weak, you usually will not be able to see anything on your monitor.

On the other hand, analog wireless cameras can still show a somewhat distorted image even if the signal is weak.

Wired RV Cameras:

Wired RV backup cameras are the most trusted motorhome because they are more reliable even though they are harder to install.

A wired backup motorhome camera functions via a wire that runs from a camera to a monitor. Unlike wireless cameras, wired RV cameras provide a more stable connection, allowing the monitor to receive clearer images and a more reliable video feed.

However, the main downside of using a wired RV backup camera is that you might need to hire a technical professional to install it if you aren’t technologically savvy.

How Easy Is It To Navigate Via The Backup Camera?

It can be challenging to learn how to use an RV backup camera to reverse and maneuver into and out of a parking space, and while driving is relatively straightforward.

Depending on the type of RV backup camera you use on your motorhome, you will have a wider or narrower field of vision. Some cameras will allow you to adjust your field of vision electronically, while others will have a set view.

If you have an RV backup camera on your motorhome, you can easily use it to see what’s behind you and how far away it is from your RV as long as it is at the right height on your motorhome. If it is placed too low on your RV, it will be challenging to navigate while driving.

If it provides a wider angle view, you will be able to navigate while driving easier, which is why you need to keep these pointers in mind.

What Are The Main Issues With Backup Cameras?

There are some issues associated with using RV backup cameras.

We have spoken about a few of the main problems you could face if installing an RV backup camera on your motorhome.

A False Sense Of Security

Although RV backup cameras are incredibly handy tools that help keep RVers safe while driving, they can give RV owners a false sense of security.

Some backup cameras only offer an 80-degree field of vision, so they cannot be the only source of information for those driving or hauling a motorhome.

Many people mistake relying on an RV backup camera too much, which can lead to accidents.

Weather Problems

It might not be common knowledge, but bad weather affects both wireless and wired RV backup cameras.

However, wireless backup cameras experience more issues during bad weather. Often the rear view of a backup camera can become easily compromised by snow, ice, and rain.

Bad weather also interferes with the signal feed from the camera to the monitor, easily resulting in backup and blindspot accidents.

Image Quality

Many wired and wireless RV backup camera systems provide poor image and video quality to drivers, resulting in many accidents.

Even if weather conditions are ideal when traveling in your motorhome, your backup camera can still display a fuzzy image.

Wireless cameras are more likely to provide drivers with inferior image quality because they cannot transmit as much data as a wired RV backup camera system.

Do People Actually Use The Backup Camera?

Many people use RV backup cameras. However, it still is not a device found on every motorhome, nor does everyone feel they need a backup camera, especially if they have an easy to maneuver RV.

However, as of 2018, according to federal law, new passenger vehicles, vans, trucks, and other vehicles like motorhomes that weigh less than 10,000 pounds need to be equipped with rearview monitoring technology.

What Are The Most Popular Backup Cameras?

Should you decide to invest in an RV backup camera for your motorhome, you need to make sure you do your research on the best RV backup cameras on the market.

Yet, we understand that not every RVer has the time to do this sometimes exhausting task.

That’s why we did some extensive research on the topic to bring to your attention a few of the very best RV backup camera options, which we have listed below:

Furrion Vision S FOS43TASF Wireless Camera:

This wireless camera is quite expensive, but it features the latest wireless technology, allowing for an impressively reliable signal.

The Furrion Vision features a durable anti-glare display and convenient rear assist marker lines that allow drivers always to see their rear clearly when reversing.

AMTIFO A7 HD 1080:

The AMTIFO A7 camera is one of the most durable RV backup camera options available because of its all-metal construction.

This camera works well in a variety of conditions, including dust, water, and extreme temperatures.

If you participate in a lot of offroading, this camera is the best option. Additionally, it is easy to install and comes with handy accessories like dash mounts.

Rohent RV Backup Camera System:

Many RVers opt for the Rohent RV backup camera system because of its state-of-the-art wireless receiver with a signal range of 990 feet in open areas.

This camera is also a favorite because it has a split-screen function that can show two camera views at once and because it has an impressive 150-degree field of view.

How Much Does It Cost To Have A Backup Camera Installed?

When considering how much a backup camera will cost to install, you need to remember that it will depend on how complex your camera system is.

Wired systems tend to cost more to install than wireless systems because they take longer to set up. However, many wireless backup cameras can be difficult to set up and install because they are technologically advanced.

Some installers will charge a fixed fee, while others will charge per hour of labor, so it’s best to ask upfront before getting a professional technician to install your camera.

Usually, you should expect to pay roughly $75 to $200 to install an RV backup camera on your motorhome.