Keeping an Eye on Your Horses: A Guide to Horse Trailer Cameras

Affiliate Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. Double D Trailers may receive a commission when you purchase through links on this page.

As horse owners, we all have the same goal: keeping our horses safe. It can be difficult when you're traveling and you're not sure what your horse is experiencing while they're loaded on the trailer. A horse trailer camera lets you see what is happening inside the trailer while you travel. If you want to find the best horse trailer camera for your trailer, look no further.

Horse Trailer Camera Comparison Chart

Equine Eye - Top Horse Trailer Cameras | Our #1 Recommendation

Best For: Horse owners who want a portable wireless camera, with options for a phone, dedicated monitor, or cellular connection.

Equine Eye currently offers three cameras for different monitoring needs. The Voyager connects directly to your phone for use in standard towing setups. The Venture connects to its own dedicated screen and is designed to transmit through larger trucks and trailers. The Vision uses a cellular connection and can be used in a trailer, stable, or paddock.

Why We Chose Equine Eye

Previously, RanchCams was our top recommendation due to its reliable performance and solid features. Equine Eye is our top choice for horse owners who want a portable wireless system. RanchCams remains our preferred option for customers who want a permanently installed, trailer-powered system. The addition of the Venture camera makes the Equine Eye lineup even stronger, especially for owners hauling large trucks, goosenecks, or trailers with living quarters, where more vehicle infrastructure can affect a phone-based wireless signal.

• Multiple Uses: The Equine Eye Vision is designed for use in trailers, stables, and paddocks. It uses a SIM card and a compatible 4G or 5G cellular network, allowing you to view the camera remotely without WiFi. Equine Eye also offers solar and mains-powered options for longer-term monitoring.
• Dedicated Screen and Published Range: The Venture sends video to its own 14cm HD screen instead of using your phone. Equine Eye advertises transmission through up to 40 meters of towing-vehicle infrastructure and up to 100 meters without obstructions.
• Portable Mounting Options: The Voyager and Venture use magnetic mounting systems. The Vision is available with different mounting options depending on the bundle selected. Owners of aluminum trailers should confirm whether a compatible mounting plate or adapter is included.
• Different Connection Options: The Vision uses a compatible 4G or 5G cellular network and does not require WiFi. The Voyager connects directly to a nearby phone, while the Venture connects directly to its included monitor. Night vision and audio features vary by model.

Equine Eye Cameras Overview

The three cameras use different connection and mounting methods:

• The Voyager connects directly to a nearby phone.
• The Venture connects directly to its included monitor.
• The Vision uses a SIM card and compatible 4G or 5G cellular service.
• Mounting, audio, storage, night vision, and warranty details vary by model and bundle.

The Voyager streams to a nearby phone over a direct local connection. The Venture sends video to its own dedicated screen. The Vision uses a cellular connection, allowing remote viewing from any distance where the camera has compatible 4G or 5G service.

Equine Eye Vision (4G) Camera

The Equine Eye Vision is designed for owners who want to use one camera in a trailer, stable, paddock, or other remote location. It connects through a compatible 4G or 5G cellular network and sends the live feed to the Equine Eye app.

• Versatility: Designed for outdoor use and rated IP65 for water and dust resistance.
• Battery and Power Options: Equine Eye states that the built-in battery lasts around 35 days with average use, which it defines as checking the camera two or three times per day. Actual battery life depends on viewing frequency, motion alerts, signal strength, and other settings. Solar-powered and mains-powered bundles are also available.
• Mounting Options: Equine Eye sells additional fixed and magnetic mounts, allowing the Vision camera to be moved between different locations.
• Cellular Connection: The Vision uses a data SIM and does not require WiFi. The camera must have access to a compatible 4G or 5G cellular signal to transmit live video.

The Vision can be moved between trailers, stables, and paddocks. Equine Eye offers several bundles, so confirm the included mount, power source, solar panel, and data plan before purchasing.

Equine Eye Venture Camera

The Venture is Equine Eye’s dedicated-screen trailer camera. It is designed for trailers, trucks, and goosenecks where the signal must pass through more towing-vehicle infrastructure.

• Dedicated Screen: The Venture includes a 14cm HD screen that receives the live camera feed without using your phone. Confirm the supplied screen mount and power connection in the current package contents before ordering.
• Published Range: Equine Eye advertises transmission through up to 40 meters of towing-vehicle infrastructure and up to 100 meters without obstructions.
• No Phone Signal or WiFi Needed: The camera and screen communicate over a 2.4GHz digital wireless connection, so there's no dependence on cell coverage.
• Battery: Equine Eye advertises up to eight hours of battery life. Actual runtime may vary with use, temperature, signal conditions, and camera settings.
• Durability: Rated IP69 for dust and water resistance, and temperature tested from -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F).
• Reversing Camera Mode: Can double as a backup camera by flipping the screen or turning on the reversing guidelines.

The Venture is intended for owners who want a separate monitor and a published transmission range designed for larger towing setups, without using a cellular data connection.

Equine Eye Voyager

The Equine Eye Voyager is designed for use in trailers without requiring phone reception or WiFi. Key features:

• Wireless Connection: Creates its own local area network (LAN) for your phone to connect to, similar to a hotspot.
• Easy Installation: Magnetic attachment allows for installation in seconds, with no screws required.
• Range: Equine Eye does not guarantee a specific connection distance for the Voyager. Signal strength depends on the distance between the camera and phone and the amount of truck or trailer infrastructure between them. Equine Eye recommends it for standard cars and trailers and suggests another model for especially large towing setups.
• Battery: Equine Eye advertises up to eight hours of battery life. Actual runtime may vary with use and conditions.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

The current Equine Eye product pages include customer reviews for the Vision, Voyager, and Venture. Review totals and ratings can change over time, so we recommend reading the most recent verified reviews directly on each product page.

When comparing reviews, pay particular attention to comments about signal strength in different trailer configurations, battery duration, app connection, image quality in low light, and customer support.

Equine Eye has been kind enough to offer Double D Trailers readers 10% off their order with them. Use code DOUBLEDTRAILERS at checkout to save!

Shop Equine Eye - Use Code DOUBLEDTRAILERS at Checkout

RanchCams Trailer System | A Reputable Brand Choice 

Best For: Long-term durability from a reputable brand with great customer service. 

RanchCams has been a reliable and trusted option for horse trailer camera systems, known for its durability and excellent customer service. They carry both wired and wireless systems, so if you're looking for a hardwired, permanent solution, RanchCams is still the way to go. Although we now rank Equine Eye as our top choice for its wireless features and versatility, RanchCams remains a solid option for those seeking long-term reliability and a variety of camera configurations.

Key Benefits:

Horse-Trailer-Specific Systems: RanchCams offers wired and wireless camera systems intended for horse trailers.

Permanent Installation: Trailer-powered camera options eliminate the need to recharge and remount a portable camera before each trip.

Dedicated Monitor: Available systems use a separate monitor in the tow vehicle rather than relying on a phone.

System Options: Camera count, viewing angle, recording capacity, waterproof rating, monitor size, and included accessories vary by package.

Customer Support: Double D Trailers has worked with RanchCams since 2013 and has found the company helpful when customers need assistance.

Pros:

• Long-lasting durability
• Excellent customer service
• Multiple system configurations available
• Dedicated monitor options

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to some other brands
• Limited to specific camera models compatible with the system

RanchCams offers several camera packages, so included monitors, mounts, cables, recording features, and accessories vary. Confirm the exact contents of the selected package before ordering.

"Love having the camera on my horses. Gives me peace of mind in case one might fall down which happened once to our old girl on a trip. We were able to pull over quickly and get her back up before she was hurt."

-Shelley, Owner of a Double D Living Quarters Horse Trailer with RanchCams system installed

Adriane's Terrifying Story...

"Ours have already paid for themselves. We sat down in the truck and immediately my kid jumps up and runs for the trailer. On the monitor it showed their mare had reared up and got her leg stuck over the divider. Luckily she was still able to have weight on the other three legs. Our plan was to unlatch and lower the divider but she reared up and my friend was able to pop the hoof right back over. Zena was totally okay. Without the cameras we would have driven 20 minutes and who knows what we would have found when we opened the doors at the trail head. The clip makes my stomach hurt but I am so grateful it turned out ok."

-Adriane, Owner of a Double D Bumper Pull Horse Trailer with RanchCams system installed

RanchCams Camera System video footage of the incident courtesy of Adriane

"This video shows when our mare Zena got her leg stuck over the divider and we were able to extricate her right away due to having the video and my kid seeing it happen before we even pulled out of the driveway. It starts with her leg already over because we had just turned the monitor on and she was already like that. Now we have the monitor going before we load. Events: Get in truck, turn on monitor, kid alerts and dashes out of truck. Kid goes in trailer while I open escape door to calm Zena since the kiddo was already opening the back up. Friend goes in with kid, I switch spots with kid. Plan was to lower the divider but as we were about to do that she reared again and we just popped her hoof back over. I have no doubt though that we would have been able to just lower the divider since it doesn't have to be lifted up in order to remove it. An unforeseen great feature. We had her unstuck within two minutes of seeing her on the camera in distress. Notice how she calms down the moment she sees her kiddo. She doesn't rear again until the moment we get her loose. We now remove that divider when hauling her alone even though she's never done that again. I do sometimes wish I had the no gap divider. We were so grateful for the cameras that day. Adults then stand there discussing how great the camera is while kiddo loves on Zena and climbs through the escape door. Her kid immediately checked her legs for injuries and we unloaded and trotted her out. She never came up lame. Luckily she was able to still have all 3 of her other feet fully on the ground while she waited for us to help. We obviously didn't move fast enough and that is why she reared so we could pop her foot over. I can't imagine how bad her injuries would have been with no camera and opening those doors 20 minutes later at our destination." - Adriane

If you're looking to add a RanchCams camera system to your horse trailer, you can shop directly on their website and use code "double d" at checkout to save 10% on your order.

Shop RanchCams Now - Use Code 'double d' at Checkout

eRapta Y0202 Four-Camera Backup System with Split-Screen Monitor

Best For: Owners who want several interior and exterior camera views on one monitor.

The eRapta system linked in this guide includes four cameras and a 7-inch split-screen monitor. The listing advertises DVR loop recording, night vision, and weather-resistant cameras. Because the system uses four cameras and requires cable routing, installation is more involved than with a single portable camera.

Key Benefits:

• Multiple cameras: Four cameras provide comprehensive coverage of your trailer.
• Split-screen monitor: View all four camera feeds at once or switch between them.
• DVR loop recording: Automatically records and loops, giving you footage to fall back on if something happens on the road.
• Night vision: Ensures you can see clearly in low-light conditions.
• Waterproof design: The current Y0202 listing gives the cameras an IP69 waterproof rating.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage with multiple cameras
• High-quality night vision
• Durable and weather-resistant

Cons:

• Installation can be more involved due to the extra cameras
• Higher price point due to the added features

Shop eRapta Y0202 on Amazon

Swift Hitch SH04 Wireless Camera System

Best For: Ease of setup and operation with a direct link to smartphone / tablet. 

The Swift Hitch SH04 creates a direct WiFi connection to a compatible smartphone or tablet, so direct viewing does not require internet or cellular service. Swift Hitch currently lists the system at $199, although pricing may change.

Key Benefits:

• Wireless connection to smartphones and tablets: No separate monitor needed. Simplifies monitoring by using a device you already own.
• Creates its own hotspot: Works in low-signal or no-signal areas.
• Range: Swift Hitch advertises a direct viewing range of up to 200 feet in an open, unobstructed area.
• Battery: Swift Hitch advertises up to five hours of operation with infrared night vision turned off. The company’s own guidance indicates shorter battery duration when infrared is in use.
• Video Resolution: The SH04 uses 640 × 480 video, which is lower than current 1080P systems.
• Audio: The SH04 supports video and audio through the connected phone or tablet.
• Easy setup: No complex wiring, making it accessible for most owners.

Pros:

• Highly portable and easy to set up
• Works directly with a smartphone or tablet you already own
• Good build quality

Cons:

• No dedicated screen included, so video quality depends on your own device
• Published range is measured with a clear line of sight, so truck and trailer construction may reduce the usable distance

Shop the Swift Hitch Camera on Amazon

Why Do You Need a Horse Trailer Camera?

Horses are made to roam in open pastures, not to be confined to small trailers. *Some* horses travel very well, while others are problematic loaders and/or haulers. However, even seasoned horses that have been hauling for many years can have a panicked moment out of the blue. With the unpredictability of horses, having a horse trailer camera system to monitor your precious cargo while en route is crucial for a safe trip. A camera with live video, and audio when available, can give you additional peace of mind while traveling.

Benefits of Horse Trailer Cameras

• Peace of Mind: Monitor your horse's behavior in real-time and address any potential issues promptly.
• Improved Safety: Early detection of problems like disorientation or illness can prevent more serious situations.
• Reduced Stress: The ability to check on your horse can lessen anxiety for both horse and rider.

Horse Trailer Camera Systems: Is Wired or Wireless Better?

There are two things to consider in the installation of a trailer camera system.

1. How the Cameras are Powered

Horse trailer cameras are usually powered either by an internal rechargeable battery or by the trailer’s electrical system. Rechargeable cameras are easier to install and move, but they need to be charged before travel. Trailer-powered cameras require more installation but do not depend on a portable battery during the trip.

2. How the Camera Transmits the Signal to the Monitor in the Tow Vehicle (Wired or Wireless)

A “wired” camera system refers to how the camera communicates with the monitor. For a “wired” system, it requires a harness that runs from each camera through the trailer and all the way to the tow vehicle monitor. Talk about a lot of wires and harnesses to contend with (it’s a huge problem actually).

A wireless camera sends video to a phone or monitor without a video cable running between them. However, some wireless cameras still require a wired connection to the trailer for power. Others use rechargeable batteries.

A trailer-powered wireless camera is a practical choice for frequent hauling because it provides continuous power without requiring a video cable to the tow vehicle. A rechargeable wireless camera may be more practical for owners who value portability and simple installation.

How is a Horse Trailer Camera Powered While Hauling Your Trailer?

Power comes from the tow vehicle’s wiring to the trailer plug or the trailer's auxiliary battery, which also connects to the tow vehicle.

What Trailer System Does Double D Trailers Use (and Why?)

We use RanchCams. We had a client in 2013 that wanted that particular brand in their horse trailer, so we ordered for the first time from Patrick (the owner of RanchCams). Since that time, it’s developed into a nice partnership. Patrick at RanchCams offers excellent support in case our clients need help, plus the camera works well for long-term durability. We’ve had very few issues.

What Features are Important for a Horse Trailer Camera?

These are the main features to compare before purchasing a horse trailer camera. Not every system on our list includes all of them.

#1: Wide Angle Lens

A wide-angle lens can show more of the horse compartment, but the final view also depends on camera placement, trailer layout, dividers, and whether a horse blocks the lens.

#2: Audio

Audio can alert you to kicking, scrambling, or repeated banging that may not be immediately obvious on the screen. Because not every camera includes live audio, verify this feature on the exact model before purchasing.

#3: Video Quality

A camera system isn’t going to do you any good if the quality is terrible and you can’t clearly see to check on your horses.

#4: Night Vision

You may never intend to travel at night, but things happen. It’s important that your camera system has the capability to switch to night mode so that you can check on your horses in the dark as well.

#5: Warranty

Of course, we never expect accidents to happen. With electronics and technology, the unexpected often happens. It’s important to find a camera system that has a manufacturer warranty, so that if something is damaged or broken, you can get it fixed/replaced.

GM Transparent Trailer View: Can’t I Just Use This Instead of a Horse Trailer Camera?

We receive a lot of questions from clients asking “why can’t I use the available camera system on my GMC?”  Well, you can…

However, it’s a “wired” system and not really practical for horse trailers. The reason being has to do with the wiring harness provided by GMC. As you can see from the photo below, it has large connectors on both ends of the harness which means you will not be able to run the wires inside the trailer frame and hide them. You either have to mount the harness underneath the trailer, on top, etc. For the camera mounted on the back door exterior, the harness will be exposed on the exterior of your trailer which is unsightly and it can easily get damaged.

Hopefully GMC will come up with a solution at some point to communicate with Bluetooth or Wifi cameras through pairing so owners can use wireless cameras (no harness).

Conclusion: Why Should You Even Trust Us?

I know what you might be thinking. This guy is talking an awful lot about horse trailer cameras - what makes him an expert, and why should I spend my money based on what he suggests? As the owner of Double D Trailers, I bring over 20 years of experience in manufacturing horse trailers and a lifetime of working with livestock. Although we've worked with RanchCams for many years, and will continue to, we continually seek the best for our customers. Our recent thorough evaluations led us to recommend Equine Eye as the top choice due to its advanced features, versatility, and positive customer feedback.

Finding the right horse trailer camera system is crucial for your peace of mind and your horse's safety. Whether you're heading to a camping event, horse show, or rodeo, you can travel confidently knowing you have a reliable monitoring system.

Happy traveling!

Brad Heath, Owner of Double D Trailers

FAQS

Can you use horse trailer cameras on RVs?

You could, but I’m not sure why you would want to monitor the inside of your RV while traveling (unless your kids are in there - which is illegal). A camera could be placed on the exterior rear of the RV which would help with backing up, as well as seeing traffic behind you.

How many cameras should you have inside of your horse trailer?

One properly positioned interior camera is often enough for a two-horse or three-horse trailer. A four-horse, head-to-head, or divided trailer may require two interior cameras. Many owners also add a separate rear camera for backing.

How long does it take to install a horse trailer camera?

Installation time depends on the camera. A portable magnetic camera may take only a few minutes to position and connect. A trailer-powered or multi-camera system can take several hours because it requires mounting, wiring, and cable routing.

Can you record on a horse trailer camera?

This depends on the exact system. Some cameras save recordings to an SD card, while others allow users to save clips through an app or provide live viewing only. Check the recording and storage specifications for the exact model before ordering.

Where to mount a horse trailer camera?

For a straight load or slant load horse trailer up to 3 horses, we find that the rear of the trailer near the ceiling is the best as you can see all of the horses, and none of them can raise their heads to block the camera view. Head to head trailers will require multiple cameras, keeping in mind that you are still best served with a view from the rear of the trailer.