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Old 03-17-2018, 07:15 AM   #1
Mike3387
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Which would you buy first?

We finally purchased our (2018.5) 3810MS and I’m buying items that I can afford. We’re upgrading from our 31’ class C motorhome. I’ve purchased my EMS, that, to me, seemed like a no brainer. Now I’m stuck between the GPS or a backup camera. Both cost about the same. Both have valid points for purchasing right away. I drove a big rig for a few years, so backing this in a space doesn’t bother me, however, I haven’t done it yet with this setup. The enthusiastic conversations between the DW and I would be nice not to have trying to back in. They tend to start the trip on a sour note. On the other hand, a place we like to go camping a couple of times a year, I just noticed has a bridge that’s marked 12’ that we go through. These items need to be avoided. My question is for those who have a RV GPS and a backup camera. Which do you value more?
 
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Old 03-17-2018, 08:45 AM   #2
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I got the backup camera first since I got a great deal on it. RV GPS is on the soon to be next list. In the mean time I use Goople, Waze and RMcN Delux Motor Carrier's Road Atlas
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Old 03-17-2018, 09:09 AM   #3
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Backup cameras are nice but you will still need help backing into a tight spot

My thought would be you are driving forward for hours using GPS but only backing for a couple feet. You gotta get there first

But then again if you find either on sale......
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Old 03-17-2018, 09:12 AM   #4
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Old 03-17-2018, 09:47 AM   #5
DarMar
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We got along fine for many years without the camera and consider GPS a must have item.
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Old 03-17-2018, 09:59 AM   #6
topjustice
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike3387 View Post
We finally purchased our (2018.5) 3810MS and I’m buying items that I can afford. We’re upgrading from our 31’ class C motorhome. I’ve purchased my EMS, that, to me, seemed like a no brainer. Now I’m stuck between the GPS or a backup camera. Both cost about the same. Both have valid points for purchasing right away. I drove a big rig for a few years, so backing this in a space doesn’t bother me, however, I haven’t done it yet with this setup. The enthusiastic conversations between the DW and I would be nice not to have trying to back in. They tend to start the trip on a sour note. On the other hand, a place we like to go camping a couple of times a year, I just noticed has a bridge that’s marked 12’ that we go through. These items need to be avoided. My question is for those who have a RV GPS and a backup camera. Which do you value more?
Consider the observation camera over the backup camera. It's only few dollars more and has more uses and better resolution. In addition to backup functions it allows you to see what's going on behind you while going down the highway if you want. etrailer.com has good prices on both.
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Old 03-17-2018, 10:21 AM   #7
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Personally we still don't have a backup camera going on 8 years of full timing. Our Rand McNally RV GPS, however, was a must have from the start and still is.
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Old 03-17-2018, 10:43 AM   #8
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GPS would be first for me. My 2016 came with an observation camera and I use it more going down the road. Maybe am old fashion but I use the mirrors for backing and don't really look at the camera. However don't trust the GPS 100% it's good to have second source.
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Old 03-17-2018, 04:49 PM   #9
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Assuming you have GPS in your phone, I might go with the backup camera first. I like the camera not so much for backing but to see who may be following me closely going down the road. Neither are absolute necessities. The phrase we used when I flew aircraft was "live by the GPS - die by the GPS" - not so much because they didn't work but many folks planned less when using GPS. Agree with the comments that a spotter is still good even if you have a camera.
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Old 03-17-2018, 05:53 PM   #10
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We use the camera as a observation camera.It is very useful.We have had a GPS for years but now find that the GPS(google maps) on the phone is more accurate and up to date.

We see all these devices as tools that enhance our travel experience.
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Old 03-17-2018, 06:54 PM   #11
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Old 03-17-2018, 07:27 PM   #12
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If you do use your phone, at least get a truckers atlas so you can avoid viewing low bridges in person.
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Old 03-18-2018, 07:34 AM   #13
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X2 what Dick said. Using just a I-phone for navigation, unless you are staying on interstates and US highways only, will soon get you into trouble.

We not only use a RV GPS but I consult my Trucker's Atlas prior to planning a route just to double check for low clearance issues.

Having a back-up camera is okay but I seldom look at it. The DW on her phone and having my phone on speaker is how I back up. I only use my mirrors.

The single most important piece of safety equipment IMHO for someone who is going to actually travel in their RV is a TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system). A Trucker's Atlas would be next, then a RV GPS, and maybe 5th or 6th down the list would be a backup camera.
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Old 03-18-2018, 08:34 AM   #14
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I've been leaning towards the RV GPS but just cannot part with the $$$ (Garmin RV 760LMT). I've learned to PLAN our trip using the online tools (DOT road conditions) and Truckers' Atlas mentioned so have not given in yet. Joy and I use full duplex headsets to back in so have tossed the camera idea to the bottom of the pile. I'm getting much better after several trips at backing the big boy.
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Old 03-18-2018, 09:05 AM   #15
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I don’t want to get into trouble with the forum police and hope this isn’t to far off of topic:

I prefer a stand-alone GPS over using cellphone due mainly to larger screen. Also so my copilot can check my phone while I am driving. Having said that I do like the idea of having the trucker GPS App on the phone as yet another nav. Information source
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Old 03-18-2018, 09:12 AM   #16
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Simply put, if my camera goes out I won't replace it, but If my GPS goes out I will replace it. Garmin dezl.
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Old 03-18-2018, 09:37 AM   #17
Mike3387
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Thanks a bunch

Didn’t realize the truckers atlas existed. Ordering the spiral bound, laminated version. I also didn’t realize there is a difference between backup camera and observation camera. Although there isn’t much I can do to keep someone from following too closely. I agree getting there safely should be my priority. Thanks again for your suggestions.
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Old 03-18-2018, 07:20 PM   #18
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garmin makes a gps with camera capable

https://g.factoryoutletstore.com/det...gitemid=431531
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Old 03-18-2018, 09:51 PM   #19
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I don't have a backup cam never saw the need for it I do use the GPS all the time!

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Old 03-19-2018, 05:51 AM   #20
timandsusan
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X2 for JandC. If your tires go bad, backing up or going forward will not be your first concern. Low clearance on the newer Monty's is critical. TPMS is #1, surge protector #2, Good GPS #3. After that the list just gets longer!
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