Driving a motorhome has a challenge that a car doesn't: you don't have a usable rear window. The living cell blocks the view, so your only eyes to the rear are the mirrors... and the camera. That's why a rear-view camera isn't a luxury, but one of the most useful safety upgrades you can fit. Let's see why, and what options exist.
Why it helps so much
- Reversing and parking: you can see what's behind (a bollard, a car, a person) which would otherwise be in a complete blind spot.
- Manoeuvres: it makes it enormously easier to pull into a pitch, turn around or approach a post.
- Safety: it reduces the risk of hitting something (or someone) you can't see.
- Peace of mind: you drive more relaxed knowing what's happening behind you.
Types of camera
- Reversing camera: activates when you engage reverse gear and shows the rear area on a screen, sometimes with guide lines. The most basic and useful for parking.
- Continuous rear-view camera: also works while driving, acting as a permanent rear "mirror"; very useful for seeing traffic approaching from behind.
- Multi-camera systems: rear and side, to cover more blind spots.
Wired or wireless
There are wired versions (more reliable and stable) and wireless ones (easier to install). For a long motorhome, a stable connection usually gives fewer problems, but modern wireless systems work well too.
It complements, it doesn't replace
Important: the camera complements the mirrors and common sense, it doesn't replace them. Keep using your mirrors properly, and for tricky manoeuvres, don't hesitate to ask someone to guide you from outside. See more in driving for the first time and parking in the city.
In summary
A rear-view camera is almost essential in a motorhome because it doesn't have a usable rear window: it gives you eyes for parking, manoeuvring and driving more safely. The step to take today: if your camper doesn't have a rear-view camera, it's one of the most cost-effective safety upgrades you can fit; choose at least a reversing one with guide lines, and even better if it also works while driving.
