To make towing your caravan as easy, and safe, as possible, it’s handy to have a reversing camera. Just like all your other caravan accessories, it can be hard to know which one to choose – there are so many! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the vast array of choices, don’t worry, we’re here to help.
We’ve compiled a list of the best reverse cameras on the market that will suit everyone’s needs and preferences! Read on and pick your favourite..
Related: Everything You Need To Know About Buying A Caravan
Types Of Reversing Cameras
Before we get into our list of the best-reversing cameras, you should be aware of the different types available. Depending on your preference and the type of van you have, there may be one particular type of reversing camera that is better suited to you than another.
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1. Rear-View Cameras
These are the most common type of cameras used when towing. Installed at the back of your caravan or trailer, they provide a clear view of what’s behind you, making it easier to reverse, park, and monitor traffic. Some rear-view cameras come with a wide-angle lens, offering an expanded view of your surroundings.
Best for:
- Reversing into tight spaces
- Keeping an eye on the road behind you
- Parking in caravan parks or tight campsites
Pros:
- Wide field of view
- Can be used while driving to keep an eye on the traffic behind you
- Helps prevent accidents during reversing
Cons:
- May require professional installation, depending on the model
2. Dual-Camera Systems
For those who want an extra layer of visibility, dual-camera systems are an excellent option. These setups feature two cameras—one for reversing and another for general driving. The second camera is often mounted higher to give a broader view while driving, which can be particularly helpful on highways and when overtaking. Some systems even
Best for:
- Long-distance travellers who need full-time rear visibility
- Anyone who frequently switches between towing and regular driving
- Monitoring traffic while on the road
Pros:
- Two dedicated cameras for both reversing and driving
- Improves overall safety when towing on highways
- Eliminates blind spots behind the caravan
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than single-camera systems
3. Side-View Cameras
Side-view cameras are mounted on either side of your caravan or vehicle to help eliminate blind spots while changing lanes or turning. These cameras provide an additional level of safety, particularly when towing wide caravans that block your view of nearby vehicles.
Best for:
- Large caravans that create significant blind spots
- Busy highways or city driving
- Towing in areas with narrow lanes
Pros:
- Eliminates blind spots, especially in city driving or on highways
- Provides a complete view of both sides of your caravan
- Helps when overtaking or navigating tight spaces
Cons:
- Adds complexity to installation
- Typically more expensive than rear-view systems alone
4. 360-Degree Camera Systems
A newer option on the market, 360-degree camera systems give you a bird’s-eye view of your caravan and vehicle, showing everything around you in one seamless image. These systems stitch together footage from multiple cameras to create a full, 360-degree view.
Best for:
- Full-time travellers who want complete visibility
- Parking in tight spots or navigating challenging terrains
- Those towing large setups like fifth-wheel caravans
Pros:
- Full visibility of your caravan and surroundings
- Ideal for tricky parking or navigating narrow roads
- Reduces the need for multiple individual cameras
Cons:
- More expensive and complex to install
- Can be overkill for small caravans or short-term towing
5. Dash Cams with Towing Features
While dash cams are typically mounted at the front of the vehicle, some newer models come equipped with towing modes. These systems can record from both front and rear cameras, giving you full visibility while also providing peace of mind if an incident occurs on the road.
Best for:
- Those who want to record their entire trip
- Travelers who want the added security of having a dash cam
- Documenting towing experiences for insurance purposes
Pros:
- Records both front and rear views for comprehensive coverage
- Useful in case of accidents or disputes
- Can double as a dash cam when not towing
Cons:
Limited field of view compared to full towing camera systems
Wired vs Wireless
Wireless Cameras
Wireless towing cameras have become increasingly popular due to their easy installation. Unlike wired systems, which require running cables from the camera to the monitor in the car, wireless cameras use a transmitter to send video to your screen. They’re a great choice if you want a simpler setup or plan to install the camera yourself.
Best for:
- DIY enthusiasts
- Quick and easy installation without the need for wiring
- Short-term towing or rentals
Pros:
- Easy to install, with no wires to run through your vehicle
- Great for caravans that may not need a permanent camera setup
- Less expensive in some cases than wired systems
Cons:
- Can experience signal interference, especially in remote areas
- May not have the same reliability as wired systems for long-term use
Wired Cameras
Wired cameras offer a more stable and reliable connection than wireless systems, making them ideal for full-time travellers or those who tow frequently. These cameras require cables to be run from the camera at the rear of the caravan to the monitor inside the vehicle, ensuring a continuous, uninterrupted feed.
Best for:
- Full-time caravanners
- Those who want a reliable, consistent video feed
- Long-term towing
Pros:
- Reliable, stable connection without interference
- High-quality video feed
- Can be integrated into existing vehicle systems
Cons:
- More complicated installation
- Generally more expensive than wireless options
Display Units for Towing Cameras
The display unit is the interface that shows the video feed from your towing camera(s), and it plays a crucial role in your overall towing experience. Choosing the right display unit is just as important as selecting the camera itself, as it determines how easily you can monitor your surroundings while towing. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of display units available and what to consider when choosing one.
1. Dedicated Monitors
Some towing camera systems come with their own dedicated monitor that’s specifically designed for displaying the camera feed. These monitors are often mounted on your dashboard or windshield, giving you a clear, unobstructed view of what’s behind or around your caravan.
Best for:
- Full-time travellers or anyone who tows frequently
- Caravans with multiple cameras (rear-view, side-view, etc.)
- Those who prefer a separate screen for towing purposes
Pros:
- Provides a large, clear display dedicated to towing cameras
- Can support multiple camera feeds at once
- Reduces clutter on your car’s primary infotainment system
Cons:
- Adds an extra device to your dashboard
- More expensive, especially for higher-end systems
2. Infotainment System Integration
Some modern vehicles allow towing camera feeds to be integrated directly into the vehicle’s built-in infotainment system. This means you can view the camera feed on your car’s existing screen, often alongside other features like GPS or music controls. It’s a seamless solution that keeps everything in one place without adding additional hardware.
Best for:
- Newer vehicles with advanced infotainment systems
- Caravanners who want a clean, clutter-free dashboard
- Shorter trips or those who only tow occasionally
Pros:
- No need for an additional monitor
- Keeps everything integrated into your vehicle’s main screen
- Often supports multiple camera inputs
Cons:
- May require professional installation or vehicle modifications
- Limited to certain vehicle models with compatible systems
3. Rearview Mirror Monitors
A more discreet option is a rearview mirror monitor, which integrates the camera feed into your existing rearview mirror. The mirror functions as normal when not in use, but when the camera is active, a portion of the mirror displays the camera feed. It’s a space-saving option that keeps your dash free from extra devices.
Best for:
- Those who prefer minimal dashboard clutter
- Occasional caravanners who don’t want a permanent monitor setup
- Drivers who like a more discreet camera display
Pros:
- Saves space by doubling as a rearview mirror and display unit
- Often includes auto-dimming and other advanced features
- Doesn’t require any dashboard space
Cons:
- Smaller display area compared to dedicated monitors
- Can be harder to see detailed footage, especially in poor lighting
4. Smartphone/Tablet Displays
For tech-savvy travellers, many wireless towing cameras now offer the option to view the video feed directly on your smartphone or tablet via an app. This setup is highly flexible and allows you to use a device you already own as the display, saving you the cost of purchasing a dedicated monitor.
Best for:
- Casual travellers or those who don’t tow frequently
- People looking for a budget-friendly option
- Caravanners who like using their own device for convenience
Pros:
- No need to purchase an additional monitor
- Can be used with devices you already own
- Apps often include additional features, such as recording or split-screen views
Cons:
- Relies on a stable wireless connection, which may not always be reliable
- May drain your device’s battery quickly
- Screen size may be smaller than a dedicated monitor, depending on your device
5. Split-Screen Monitors
For those using multiple cameras (rear-view, side-view, etc.), split-screen monitors allow you to see all your camera feeds simultaneously. These are usually larger monitors that can be mounted on your dashboard or windshield, making it easy to keep an eye on multiple angles at once.
Best for:
- Caravans with multiple cameras
- Full-time travellers who need comprehensive visibility
- Those who frequently drive in busy or tricky environments
Pros:
- Offers real-time viewing of all camera feeds
- Improves safety by providing a complete view of your surroundings
- Can often switch between different camera views with a button press
Cons:
- Typically more expensive than single-camera systems
- Larger monitors can take up more space on your dashboard
Top Cameras On The Market
Now you’re familiar with the different types of cameras there are on the market, let’s take a look at some of the best ones!
Related: The Best Towing Mirrors On The Market in 2021
1. FURRION Vision S Rear-Vision Camera & 7″ Display Kit
This reversing camera comes in a kit, so you get both the camera and the monitor. It’s a high-quality camera that’s wireless and features a touch-screen monitor for quick and easy use. The camera also features infrared LEDs for night vision and it’s waterproof, so you won’t run into trouble if you’re driving through a downpour. The monitor includes windshield or universal surface mounting options for convenience. With such a high-quality picture, it’s no wonder this camera is the go-to for many caravanners.
2. Sphere Caravan Reversing Camera Kit
This wired reversing camera from Sphere comes with everything you need to set up your reversing camera. The kit includes cables to connect the camera to the monitor, as well as the black eyeball camera and 7″ monitor. The camera features both left and right modes so it can be changed to suit the driver’s needs. A quality picture is guaranteed with infrared LEDs for great night time display. With a coverage angle of 120 degrees, this camera can be adjusted to allow the driver to see what they need.
3. Dometic RVS 745 – 7″ AHD LCD Monitor & Colour Camera
Dometic has developed a top of the line reversing camera with complete LED lighting to provide excellent picture quality both day and night. The monitor features an adjustable ball mount so you can position it wherever is most comfortable and convenient. Anti-reflection technology ensures a quality picture on your monitor, even in direct sunlight. Three cameras can be connected at once to allow for optimal coverage and all-around viewing. Illuminated keys and day-night switching is also available on the monitor for convenience while driving.
4. Elinz 7” Monitor Caravan 2 Cameras System
For a slightly cheaper reversing camera for your caravan that’s still good quality, Elinz is your go-to. They produce a range of different kits, some with two cameras, some with one, as well as monitors in various different sizes. Plus, they’re decently priced so you won’t blow your budget! The monitor for this camera features anti-glare technology so drivers can use the monitor in direct sunlight. The camera also comes with 18 LEDs to provide a quality picture even at night time. Not to mention that up to 3 cameras can be connected at once, allowing for better coverage to reduce blind spots.
5. Masten 4.3 LCD Rearview Mirror Monitor With 2 Inputs Vehicle Specific Mount Camera
This fantastic design from Masten means you can have access to a rearview mirror at all times, even when your vehicle is not in reverse. You simply have to replace your current rearview mirror with the one provided in this kit. A dome-shaped camera is also included that has been specially crafted for caravans and motorhomes. It features 24 infrared LEDs for night vision and is also water and dust proof. Even better, both camera inputs on the mirror monitor have separate power trigger control wires meaning that you can automatically display and switch between using the camera to reverse or as a rearview mirror.
6. Elinz 9” DVR Monitor 4CH Realtime With 3 Cameras Package
Another great choice to consider from Elinz is this 9” monitor which has four ports for camera connections. Plus, purchasing this package means you get three cameras! The cameras can work and be displayed simultaneously providing you with top-quality coverage so you can see everything behind your van. You don’t need your vehicle to be in reverse gear to see what’s happening behind it thanks to the multiple cameras! The cameras feature 18 infrared LEDs for quality night time images and they’re also waterproof. You can also record the footage on your monitor – a bonus if your van is ever rear-ended and you need proof for your insurance company.
Related: Everything You Need To Know About Caravan Insurance
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