acking up an RV, whether it be motorized or towable, can send trepidations down one’s spine — especially those new to the lifestyle. Over time, most owners acclimate to the mechanical process — learning which way to turn the steering wheel and when — but not knowing what’s lurking behind you never goes away. There are classic remedies we wouldn’t suggest doing, like yelling at your other half because he/she misses obstructions or just can’t figure out how to direct the backing process, especially since a better way is to install a back-up camera and monitor the action yourself.
Simple backup systems for motorhomes have been around for a long time. In more recent years, manufacturers have recognized the necessity to eliminate blind spots and reduce back-in collisions with impossible-to-see obstructions and are offering pre-wiring and mounting bracket provisions or complete systems with a monitor as part of the supply starter box for even smaller towables. And for older RVs, the aftermarket is filled with choices.
In this day and age, few owners may want to deal with wired systems, so for this article, we’ll focus only on wireless products. These systems usually rely on Wi-Fi to transmit signals to a cockpit-mounted monitor; one even pairs to a smart device. The camera, whether it be mounted in the rear or on the side, commonly taps into power via the wiring to the clearance lights. Many towables even come prewired from the factory and many such systems also offer side-mounted cameras to supplement the view. (In fact, to demonstrate the ease with which these systems can be installed, we’re following this overview of popular aftermarket products with hands-on installations of two such systems: the Furrion Vision S 3-Camera System with Sharkfin camera and 7-inch monitor and the vueSMART from Hopkins Towing Solutions.)
Unlike cameras and monitors in the past, today’s systems offer crystal-clear images, some even on a split screen. Monitors can range up to 10 inches, but finding a suitable location to mount them on or near the dash can be challenging. Various mounting brackets are offered, and some people keep the monitor out of the way until needed. In that case, specialty hardware can be integrated to allow the monitor to be placed on the dash temporarily.
Like most electronic devices, the Internet is flooded with products under unfamiliar names. Typically, these are spinoff devices; some provide good service, and some are junk. Reviews from fellow RVers can be helpful but not always accurate. Fortunately, there are several wireless backup systems on the market with proven track records. Expect to pay upwards of $1,200 for a good-quality system and the installation process has been simplified for do-it-yourselfers. One thing’s for sure: once you start using backup cameras, you’ll wonder how you traveled without this safety system.
The following products are the most recognizable and available online or at most RV parts and accessory stores.
When you opt for the flagship system, you get a commanding view (with side cameras) while backing into a campsite or you can monitor traffic while traveling. If the RV is prewired with bracket locations, the installation is plug and play. The digital wireless system is said to be five times stronger than standard Wi-Fi and the monitor image is crystal clear. You also get Park-Assist Lines (that can be toggled off) when backing into a site, a built-in microphone and motion sensing.
Furrion also offers basic systems starting with a monitor and a single rear camera for those who only want a single-point view. Smaller, 4.3 and 5-inch screens are also available. While the installation is simplified with factory prewire options, mounting and wiring the components without such provisions is still fairly easy for most DIYers.
The camera provides a 152-degree view to the rear and six LEDs illuminate dark space at night.
Rather than provide a monitor panel, the vueSMART sends the video images to a smart device via an app that must be downloaded. It will work on any smart device that is hooked up to cell service and the image is very clear. At press time, etrailer (etrailer.com) was selling the vueSMART for $105, which makes it by far the least expensive backup system on the market.
The digital wireless system is easy to install and an adapter will work directly with the Furrion mount from the factory, if so equipped. The system can stay on while driving, which elevates the safety factor while on the road. It’s said to transmit up to 300 feet, and night vision helps in darker areas. Regular price is $1,399 but look for a $300 discount online; the single camera system, with similar features, sells for $600 after the discount is applied. Online and phone support are excellent.
Visionworks also offers a MACH2 kit that allows the camera to be integrated into the tow vehicle’s built-in screen, eliminating the need for the kit monitor. This feature is perfect for those who prefer not to hang another monitor on the windshield or dash. Available for Ram, GM and Ford trucks (check year compatibility on the company’s website) and a remote can be used to switch between cameras. The camera can transmit up to 400 feet and the camera has an 80 TVL resolution rating and a IP68 waterproof rating. The kit retails for $799 and is available from online dealers and in RV parts and accessory stores.
Events can be recorded and a built-in microphone provides audio; the split-screen mode can display up to four camera views. Viewing angle is 130 degrees and the camera has night vision. Kits are available with one to four cameras and are compatible with RVs prewired for Furrion components. For added versatility, the company supplies a semicircle bracket with a round magnet for mounting on any metal surface. This is a great way to add a camera into the system that monitors the hitching process. Kits range from $378 to $680.
The monitor screen can show single, split or views from four cameras at the same time. A built-in speaker provides the audio and a bracket with a suction cup is provided for mounting the monitor, which is plugged into a 12-volt DC receptacle.
The camera provides a wide view and can be mounted with stainless-steel hardware. It has low-light capabilities and is waterproof. Optional cameras can be mounted to show side-view blind spots while driving or backing into an RV site. Online pricing is around $450 for kit with a 7-inch monitor.
The monitor supports four AV inputs, screen splitting and real-time recording (128GB micro SD card) and replay. This is a basic system that comes with all the necessary installation hardware but will require some wiring; it is not plug and play. Nevertheless, it provides a clear picture via the camera’s 720p resolution.
The RVS system (RVS-4W-HD) has a 7-inch monitor that shows a 130-degree view, supported by 18 infrared illuminators for night-time viewing. And the company touts its industrial-grade-strength build that can withstand 20G force for vibration and 100G for shock — and, of course, the camera is waterproof.
Other systems are available with a single camera input, 5-inch monitor screens along with two or three-channel models. Kits range from $299 to $508. Limited wiring will be necessary, but nothing most DIYers can’t handle.
Four cameras with 1080p resolution are mounted on the right side, left side, front and rear of the RV. The cameras are hard-wired to a control unit that is mounted up front in the RV. The monitor is hard-wired in motorhomes, but for trailers and fifth wheels, a wireless digital signal is sent to the monitor in the tow vehicle cab — eliminating the need for a long cable between the trailer and tow vehicle and provisions for disconnecting the cable when unhitched.
A 10-inch monitor screen provides a clear picture of the surroundings, whether on the road or backing into an RV park site. A second screen can also be mounted inside the RV to provide real-time security via 24/7 viewing and recording. The 360-degree system for motorhomes sells for $1,100, while the kit for trailers and fifth wheels sells for $1,700 when discounts are offered.
