Looking for the best dash camera for your motorhome or campervan? Feeling a bit overwhelmed by the choices and wondering how much money you need to spend? Don’t worry- we’ve done the hard work for you! Here’s our roundup of the best dash cams for motorhomes and campers.
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Motorhome dash cam- do you need one?
People put dash-cams into their motorhomes, campervans or cars for one of two main reasons- to record their journey or to (hopefully!) protect them in the event of an accident. Sometimes, it’s both.
Sadly, we live in a society where it’s becoming more and more important to be able to prove your side of the story in an accident or altercation (especially with the sharp rise in insurance fraud claims) and having a dash cam will definitely help with that.
Still, there’s a high chance you already have a motorhome sat nav and a reversing camera… do you really need ANOTHER camper gadget?
Joint reversing and dash cams
Of course, there are some motorhome reversing cameras which also have a forward-facing camera, so you can have the best of both worlds but, if you don’t. you’ll need to decide if getting a dash cam is worth the expense. Or, to put it another way, can you afford NOT to?
To help you out, we’ve reviewed the best motorhome dash cams on the market, in a range of budgets and specs.
NOTE: To avoid confusion, for the purpose of this post we will be looking at front-view cameras only.
So, which is the best dash cam for a motorhome or campervan?
Ahhh, you want to get straight to the point? Fair enough.
As with most motorhome accessories, ‘best’ is often down to user experience and personal preference. Do you want a dash cam that’s quick to set up and easy to use, or do you want one that’s fixed or that you can move between vehicles?
Still, if you’re in a rush, here are our top picks:
REVIEWED- Our Top 3 Best Motorhome Dash Cams
You can see our more in-depth reviews later in this post.
Disadvantages of having a dash cam in your motorhome/camper?
We’ve spoken about the reasons TO buy a dash cam, but what are the cons? Are there any disadvantages to having a dash cam?
The biggest downside is distraction. Whether it’s not working and you try to adjust it while driving, or you look at it too much, any attention taken away from the road while driving is a danger.
Also, don’t forget that some countries ban dash cams for ‘infringing people’s privacy’. So, if you’re going motorhoming in Portugal (for example), you might want to remove it.
Does adding a dash cam reduce your insurance costs?
Sadly, that’s unlikely. Most insurance companies don’t offer a discount if you have a dashcam in your motorhome or campervan. However, having one CAN help you get an increased in your premiums after an accident when you can prove you weren’t at fault.
Essential things to check when buying a dash cam for your van or motorhome
Here are some things to consider when researching a motorhome/ campervan dash cam:
Does it have Wireless Connectivity?
There are different types of connectivity features on dash cams:
- Records to internal storage
- Records direct to an SD card
- Records to the “cloud”
- Links to a Smart Phone via app
- Any hard wiring required for features
This basically means how you get access to the footage once it’s been recorded. If you have a high-quality smartphone, you might prefer an app. If you don’t, you’ll need a camera with an SD card which can be put into a reader on your laptop or desktop.
Field of View
A crucial aspect of any dash cam is its field of view. This means how wide an angle the camera will capture/record.
A camera with a narrow a field of view will have a more limited angle for recording. This is fine is you just want to record the road, but if you’re going to use a dash cam for recording your trips, then you want a camera that is going to capture as much of the scenery as possible.
You also need to consider where you will put the dash cam inside the cab and how it will be mounted; too big a unit can obstruct your view when driving.
Image Quality
The image quality & size of the unit of a dash cam significantly influences how useful the device is.
There’s no point using it for evidence if the image is too grainy to see anything! Same if you’re using it for footage for YouTube.
It’s also important to look at the night-vision quality. Some cameras are great during the day in good light, but rubbish when it gets darker or the skies are gloomy.
Functions & Performance
Like most gadgets, dash cams come with a wide range of features. Some common features and performance include:
- Internal GPS (records your journey, speed and other info)
- Video Quality
- Dual camera- front and back
- Display Screen or not- can be distracting or useful
- Swivel whilst on windscreen- to aid placement in different vehicles.
- Sensor Recording (great while parked- records any damage or breakins)
- Connects to an app- can be useful or a barrier to buying, depending on your phone.
Is there a completely wireless dash cam?
Yep! In fact, these days most dash cams are wireless which, to be honest, is probably the best option. This makes them simple to remove when you’re not driving- decreasing risk of theft.
Cost
Cost is always a factor when buying any motorhome accessory and it’s important to remember that the ‘best’ option is not always the most expensive, especially if you only use your motorhome occasionally.
However, like with motorhome TVs or other electrical items, you often do get what you pay for with dash cams.
The Best Motorhome Dash Cams under £50
So, let’s start with our reviews.
Here are some of our favourite ‘all-rounder’ dash cams at a decent price range.
NOTE: Prices were in the correct range when this dash cam review was created, but may change with time.
The ORSKEY 1080P Full HD Dash Cam
Key Features:
- 3″ Ultra Clear LCD Screen
- High Dynamic Range
- Locks footage if a shake or bump is detected
- 170° Wide-Angle vision
Connectivity / Power:
- 3.5m 12v Cable
- Mini USB Cable
- No app required
This is one of the best and most reasonably priced dash cams in our review. It’s easy to set up and use, has loop recording as standard and has a ‘G-sensor’ with collision detection, which locks the video footage to prevent it being overwritten in the event of an accident.
Pros:
- 12-month Guarantee
- Easy to Use
- Clear Footage
- Compact & Light
- Loop recording
Cons:
- Must be kept plugged in
- Memory card not included.
- Need an SD Card Reader to view footage on laptop
- Night vision isn’t crystal clear, but still good enough to read number plates
IIWEY Dash Cam Mini Size
Key Features:
- Seamless Loop Recording
- Built-in G-sensor
- 170° Super Wide Angle
- Advanced Night Vision WDR Tech
- 24Hours Parking Mode
- Swivel head
Connectivity / Power:
- 2 connection option – Micro USB or 12v lighter
For the size and price, this dash cam is amazing! It’s so small it doesn’t get in the way at all whilst you’re driving, and the quality of picture both during day and night is great.
You can power it using USB or 12V cable, and if you want it to work whilst vehicle is off then you need to buy the additional hard wiring kit. If you don’t want the footage overwritten, you need to put in a bigger SD card (up to 128GB) or download files daily to ensure you don’t lose any footage.
A good little “plug and play” dash cam- easy to use and set up and works right out of the box.
Pros:
- Powered via mico USB or 12V cable
- Swivel head for cab area recording
- View footage on phone or from the cloud.
- Can be hard wired
- SD Card included
Cons:
- Some people find the buttons fiddly
- Large files sizes – so can use a lot of SD card quickly.
Best Motorhome Dash Cams under £100
POYBPCY Built in Wi-Fi 3″ Screen Dash Cam
Key Features:
- Built-in Wi-Fi & Free App
- Wide Angle View (170°)
- Records in high-quality- up to 1440px
- Has parking setting which records bumps whilst parked.
Connectivity / Power:
- App Connection for viewing footage.
- Built in Wi-Fi
- 12v cable (with USB port)
This dash cam is all about the video quality. It can record up to 1440px and has a wide angle view of 170°. It also has an app, which allows the dash cam to be controlled and footage viewed on the app.
Although this sounds great, you’re not going to be able to use the app whilst you’re driving, so this might be a bit of a gimmick, although the other features are still very good.
One of the best features about this dash cam is the parking setting, which means the dash cam will automatically start recording if it detects any motion or impact while parked.
Pros:
- SD Card Included
- High Resolution video
- Easy to Set Up
- Has a parking setting which records motion whilst parked.
- Suction Cap has good hold
- Footage viewed via app on phone/tablet
Cons:
- Requires the app for settings
- Heavier then some other options
AZDOME 2K Dash Cam with Built in Wi-Fi & GPS
Key Features:
- Built‒in Wi-Fi / GPS
- Supports External Memory Capacity up to 128GB
- Wide Angle View
- Rotating Holder Design
Connectivity / Power:
- Built in Wi-Fi to connect to phone (device does not connect to internet)
This is another great wireless dash cam with high resolution footage. It has a built-in GPS which allows you to record your route, speed and other information, although you do need to connect it to the app to get access to the footage (not great if you don’t have a smartphone.)
It also has auto crash-detection, meaning the footage is locked if a bump is detected. It has this while parked as well, but the camera does need to be hard-wired to use this feature (kit purchased separately.)
Pros:
- High Resolution
- Good Quality for price range
- Suction Cap has good hold
- Footage viewed via app on phone/tablet
Cons:
- Fiddly to set up wi-fi for video download
- User manual small print size
- SD Card Not Included
Best Motorhome and Campervan Dash Cams over £100
Some dash cams have a LOT of extra features, which pushes the price up. Here are some of the more expensive options in our review.
Nextbase Dash Cam 622GW Full 4K
Key Features:
- 4K/30fps Ultra HD & Super Slow Motion at 1080p/120fps
- Location Recovery: what3words integration
- Image Stabilization
- Alexa Biult-In
Connectivity / Power:
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi & GPS enabled. Connect with App & MyNextbase Player
- Powered via USB
The popular Nextbase dash cam comes with a load of great functions. Not only does it have 4K video quality, but it connects to What3Words to help you know exactly where everything was filmed.
You can also add an extra lens to this dash cam,if you want to record into the cab area whilst travelling.
If you can stretch the budget, this dash is amazing for capturing all your on- road footage!
Pros:
- Clear and good quality Images
- 3″ Touch Screen
- Links to What3Words App
- Compact
Cons:
- SD Card Not Included
- Device can freeze if wrong SD Card is used
WOLFBOX D07 Dashcam 4K Dash Cam
Key Features:
- Great night recording
- Built in GPS
- Ultra 4K HD Recording
- Built-in Wi-Fi & APP Control
- Super Night Vision with WDR Tech
Connectivity / Power:
- 12v power cable
- Connects to phone for viewing via app
Another great 4K dash cam is this app-controlled dash cam. It connects via the 12V socket in your van and has good quality recording for both night / day. It also has built- in GPS and Wi-Fi.
As a bonus, this one comes with a rear camera – you don’t have to install / use the rear camera if you don’t want to. As with most of the dash cams in this review, if you want to use the parking feature, you need to buy the additional hard-wire kit.
Pros:
- Comes with rear camera (but doesn’t need to be connected if you only want a front camera only)
- Good image quality
- Super Capacitor/Two Installation Options
Cons:
- Parking function requires wolfbox hardwire kit.
- SD Card needs formatting monthly.
The Best Dash Cam with Good Functions
This sections is for those who want their dash cams to have more functions, like GPS, Wi-Fi, parking features, security, display, connectivity, apps etc.
Please bear in mind that some features may require additional kit or software you need to buy. Also, as with most things, the more features the dash cam has, the higher the price!
Garmin 66W Dash Cam Extra Wide Camera Angle
Key Features:
- GPS and smartphone integration with the Garmin Virb app
- Lane Departure and Forward Collision warning
- Speed Camera warnings
- Recording in 1440p with an ultra-wide 180-degree field of view
- Micro SDHC and micro SDXC cards. Minimum of 8GB up 256GB
Connectivity / Power:
- Dash Cam Auto Sync enables you to control and play back footage on your smartphone using the Garmin Drive™ app
- Powered via USB
There’s a reason you pay more for a named brand such as Garmin- you know exactly what you’re going to get. This dash cam is packed with great features; it’s easy to mount, it’s discrete while driving and has a wide field of view camera to capture life on the road, as you see it.
The menu system can be tricky to get started but, once you get the hang of it, it’s not an issue.
Pros:
- Subtle, compact design
- Good video quality
- Easy to mount
- Extra-wide field of view
- 3″ Touch Screen
Cons:
- Can run quite hot
- Voice controls can be inaccurate
- Fiddly menu system
- Expensive
How to Fit a Dash Cam
So, you’re chosen your favourite option. Great. Now, how do you fit the thing?
Wired – As mentioned earlier, most basic dash cams are wireless.
However, some have parking and 24/7 monitoring features and these will need connecting to some sort of external power supply (such as your motorhome leisure battery).
WARNING: Connecting to your battery could cause this to drain whilst you’re not using the vehicle, so be sure to disconnect it properly after use.
Wireless – No installation is required for wireless dash cams; literally just use the suction cap and stick it to your windscreen in an appropriate place.
Where to Place a Dash Cam?
Most people place their dash cam in the upper middle section of the windscreen so it has the. best field of view. Please make sure it doesn’t obstruct your view whilst driving.
Best Dash Cam Accessories
Most all of the dash cams reviewed here don’t need any additional kit for them to function.
However, many of them don’t come with an SD card (which you’ll need to record the footage) and there are some units which offer extra options you might like to consider.
Modular Cabin Camera for the Nextbase 622GW Full 4K Dash Cam
If you like the Nextbase 622GW Full 4K Dash Cam mentioned above, then you’ll love this extra accessory. It’s a plug-in camera for viewing inside your motorhome/campervan. This is great little addition if you’re recording your trip and want to have a camera on yourself for commentating!
We didn’t test it for sound quallity, so you might still want to use a microphone on a GoPro to over-dub the sound.
SD Cards for Dash Cams
For almost all dash cams, you’ll need to buy an SD card.
NOTE: Some dash cams will only take a 32GB SD Card as a maximum, so when reviewing and choosing your dash cam, make sure you double check what the SD Card format requirements are.
USB & 12V Connection Cables
Some dash cams are supplied with basic connection and charger cables, so here are some alternatives should you need better quality.
Garmin Dash Cam Hardwire Kit
if you like the Garmin 66W Dash Cam and want the option of the Parking feature, then hard wiring is the best option. This kit is compatible with the following:
- Dash Cam 45
- Dash Cam 55
- Dash Cam 65w
- Dash Cam 46
- Dash Cam 66W
- Dash Cam Mini
Final Thoughts…
So, are dash cams worth it?
with so many on the market covering a range of budgets and features / functions, a dash cam for your motorhome or campervan is well worth adding to the gadget box. For those of use that love to record our trips, then a dash cam with a good image quality is a must.
For the cost range, it’s not a gadget that you purchase and then feel guilty for forking out all that money when you don’t not use it – you can’t have too many gadgets in your motorhome/campervan 🙂
Want more tips for motorhoming?
Here are some more ideas you might find useful:
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Last update on 2024-04-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API