Wireless caravan reversing camera recommendations

 I have a Falcon Technology wireless, re-chargeable camera which transmits a picture to my iPhone.  Has a magnetic mount which sits on a metal plate glued to the van body so no drilling required to mount it. Works well as a reversing camera but I bought it for rear-view purposes and the wide angle lens (required for reversing), tends to distort distances so it's not ideal for continuous use. It lasts for more than 4 hours on a single charge.

Our last rig was a Barcelona on the back of a VW Touareg - and it coped with that distance perfectly but our new van has an aluminium clad body and the signal won't get through.

Happy to sell it if you're interested.

Hi flatcoat,r&r, Not something I had considered so just had a quick look, via Google, and very surprised at the range of devices available.(parkingcameras.com)

There are some very interesting comments but the first thing I noticed was the cost!

I can see advantages to having one but my brief look suggest that wireless set ups can be problematic regarding battery life.

This would not be a problem for one just attached to reverse but can also see, as many comment,, the advantage of having a camera for a rear view whilst towing especially when abroad and driving on the 'wrong; side.

Maybe others have suggestions for different systems?

I can see advantages to having one but my brief look suggest that wireless set ups can be problematic regarding battery life.

I believe the Falcon camera has a battery life of about 8 hours, but I have only tested mine for about 4 - which is as long as I want to be towing, anyway!

It is a very useful addition to mirrors because you can spot the idiot who insists in tucking himself right behind the van, which even the best of mirrors won't show, but, as I said, when used for that purpose, as opposed to just reversing, the distance appears very distorted to the extent that one car length appears to be 10 or more.

Thanks for the replies. I should have said i want to live wire it (probably into reversing lights or side running lights). Battery operated units generally get poor reviews for battery life and we often drive 8-10 hours on long haul trips. 

Looked at this and concluded that it would be better to fit hard wired by fitting a number plate light (or number plate frame) with camera and run cables to front locker. power from side lights and reverse trigger from rear lights. Then use a Bluetooth repeater to your chosen device in the car. 

This has the advantage of low cost, better signal to phone, no holes in the van, no batteries in circuit so always available if van is plugged to car.

Ive got the cheapest reversing aid ,,very loud wife !!

Hi, I've just purchased a wireless rear view camera from Falcon Technology to send image to my android phone - they claim it will work well - the image is very clear but it keeps 'freezing' or locking - then losing connection - not at all happy with my £179. purchase as advertised through CAMC magazine.

Falcon have tried to help nut so far unable to resolve the problem.

Any suggestions?

Hello,

`I am a solo caravaner (brand new) and want to get into Europe by March 2020. I am waiting for my caravan to be delivered at the moment. I have been searching, remember I am new to this, and spoke to a number of good engineers, but cant find a sound hard wired system which does not have a screen on the dash. My preference would be to have it wired to the car sat nav screen (will have a 'full on dash' sat nave system) or perhaps to my iPhone. Having spoken to a few engineers I have yet to be convinced that such a system exists!

Has anyone and clues for this beginner please? 

Why do you want a reversing camera.  Is it for pitching or for seeing when you are clear after overtaking. If your pitching up just get out and see where you are in relation to your surroundings, if overtaking you usually get a flash from somebody when you indicate you want to pull back in. just get a motor mover and you can stand and watch when pitching. My wife has a brain injury and cannot do much without help and I cope with a 8 meter twin axle towed by a Jeep. I just have to keep getting out and looking how much room I have left. My Swift has a camera and has never worked.

Long distance solo caravanning In Europe,  a camera must be a useful tool. Reversing onto a site is very secondary.

I remain unconvinced about the technical systems suggested by any number of suppliers other than the WiFi systems are not up to the task. The search continues. 

I hope to get my caravan in two weeks time. Quite excited! 

Thank you for the info.