Does a cargo box block the view of my reversing camera?
31 August 2026
In many cases, a towbar box partially or completely blocks the view of the reversing camera. Whether this is the case in your situation depends on the height at which the box is mounted, the dimensions of the box, and the position of the camera on your car. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about towbar boxes and reversing cameras so that you can make an informed choice.
How far does a towbar box extend behind the car?
Most towbar boxes extend between 80 and 120 centimeters beyond the rear bumper. Compact models start around 80 cm, while larger boxes with more cargo space quickly reach 110 to 120 cm. This overhang largely determines whether and how much the box is visible in the rearview camera's view.
In addition to length, width also plays a role. A wider trunk covers more of the camera field than a narrow one. Because the camera is typically positioned low in the tailgate or bumper and looks diagonally downwards, a trunk hanging close behind the car easily falls within that viewing angle. The closer the trunk hangs to the bumper, the greater the chance that it is visible in the camera image, but the smaller the proportion of the image it blocks.
Which factors determine whether the camera is blocked?
Whether a towbar box obstructs the camera's view depends on a combination of factors: the mounting height of the box, the camera's viewing angle, the dimensions of the box, and the distance between the bumper and the box. There is no universal answer, because every car and every box is different.
The most important factors at a glance:
- Height of the towbar: A higher tow bar means the trunk hangs higher, causing the camera to look underneath it sooner.
- Camera viewing angle: Wide-angle cameras capture more of the surroundings, but also have a greater chance of getting the suitcase in the frame.
- Height of the suitcase: A low, flat case hangs out of the camera's reach more often than a tall case.
- Distance to the bumper: Some towbar adapters position the trunk further away from the car, which can reduce or increase blockage depending on the camera angle.
- Camera placement on the vehicle: A camera in the license plate holder sits lower than a camera in the tailgate, and therefore experiences more frequent obstruction.
It is therefore wise to test what the camera image looks like with the case mounted before a long drive. That way, you know exactly what you see and what you miss.
What can you do if the towbar box obstructs the camera's view?
If the towbar box obstructs the view of your reversing camera, there are a few practical solutions. You can adjust the mounting height, use a different adapter, or temporarily replace the camera with a wireless reversing camera that you attach to the box itself.
The most commonly used solutions are:
- Height adjustment of the carrier: Some towbar mounting systems offer the option to position the trunk higher or lower. A higher position often allows the camera to see underneath it better.
- Wireless extra camera: A small wireless reversing camera that you temporarily mount on the back of the trunk gives you a view behind the trunk. This is a popular solution for motorhomes and caravans and also works well with large towbar trunks.
- Choose a more compact suitcase: A narrower or lower case takes up less space in the camera field. If you haven't purchased a case yet, now is the time to take that into account.
- Drive with extra caution: If none of the above options are available, you can use extra mirrors and the parking sensors as a supplement when reversing.
Is driving with a blocked reversing camera allowed in the Netherlands?
In the Netherlands, it is not legally mandatory to have a reversing camera, nor is there a specific law prohibiting the camera from being blocked by an attachment such as a towbar box. As long as you have sufficient visibility through the mirrors and meet general visibility requirements, driving with a blocked camera is permitted.
However, caution is advised. The reversing camera is a safety aid, and if it is completely blocked, you lose an important tool for maneuvering in parking lots and narrow streets. Furthermore, parking sensors on some cars may function less effectively if the trunk partially covers the rear parking space. It is always the driver's responsibility to maneuver safely, regardless of what aids are available.
Also check the rules regarding maximum overhang: in the Netherlands, a trailer may not extend more than 1 meter behind the vehicle without additional marking. If the overhang exceeds 1 meter, you are required to apply a red marking so that other road users can see the extra length.
Which towbar box is best suited for a car with a reversing camera?
The best towbar box for a car with a reversing camera is a model with a low overall height and a compact depth, so that the box obstructs the camera's field of view as little as possible. Preferably choose a box where the bottom hangs high enough to allow the camera to look unobstructed underneath.
What to look out for when making your choice:
- Low height: A flat suitcase hangs out of the camera's range more often than a tall, blocky suitcase.
- Adjustable mounting: choose a tow bar case where the height of the mount is adjustable, so you can adjust the position to your specific camera setup.
- Compatibility with your towbar size: Ensure that the box fits on your towbar box and that the mounting is stable and low enough.
- Test videos and reviews: Look for experiences from drivers with the same car model. On forums and review platforms, you can often find specific information about how a trunk fits on a particular model.
Bee VDL Hapro We offer towbar boxes in various sizes and designs, developed and manufactured in the Netherlands. Do you have questions about which model best suits your car and camera system? Please feel free to contact us. contact us for personal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my existing reversing camera with a model that works better with a towbar box?
Yes, that is certainly possible. There are cameras with a narrower viewing angle that are less likely to capture the trunk, but also systems that allow you to connect a second camera mounted on the back of the trunk. This second camera switches on automatically when you reverse, ensuring you always have a view behind the trunk. Consult an automotive accessory specialist to determine which option best suits your vehicle and driving style.
How do I test at home whether my towbar box blocks the camera image before I travel?
Mount the roof box on the tow bar and put the car in reverse so that the camera screen is active. Then walk around the car and check how much of the box is visible in the image and — more importantly — how much of the road and surroundings you can still see. Preferably do this in a quiet parking lot or driveway, so that you can assess without time pressure whether the visibility is sufficient for safe maneuvering.
Do the parking sensors still work properly when a towbar box is fitted?
That depends on the position of the sensors and the size of the trunk. Parking sensors in the rear bumper measure the distance to the nearest object, and if the trunk is positioned right behind the bumper, the sensors detect the trunk itself as an obstacle — which significantly reduces usability. Some cars have an automatic deactivation option for the rear parking sensors as soon as a trailer or carrier is connected via the towbar socket; check if your car has this feature.
What is the maximum permissible overhang of a towbar box in the Netherlands, and which markings are mandatory?
In the Netherlands, a trailer may extend a maximum of 1 meter behind the vehicle without additional marking. If the trunk extends more than 1 meter, you are legally required to attach a red marking — such as a reflective plate or flag — to the end so that other road users can clearly see the extra length. Take this into account when choosing the trunk depth as well, as more compact models more often stay within the 1-meter limit.
Are there specific towbar box brands or models known to be camera-friendly?
There are no official certifications for 'camera-friendly' towbar boxes, but models with a low profile and an adjustable mounting point are most often rated as suitable by users. Read reviews on car forums and search specifically for your car make and model in combination with the case name for user experiences. You can also contact VDL Hapro directly for advice on which model best suits your camera setup.
Can I attach a wireless reversing camera to the trunk itself, and how does that work in practice?
Yes, wireless reversing cameras are specifically designed for situations where the direct rear view is blocked, such as with caravans, trailers, and large towbar boxes. You attach the camera to the back of the box using a clamp or suction cup, and the image is transmitted wirelessly to a receiver in the car—either to a separate screen or via a connection to the existing navigation display. Installation is typically simple and requires no permanent wiring, making it a flexible solution for occasional use.
Does the weight of the towbar box affect driving safety or the operation of driver assistance systems?
Yes, a heavily loaded towbar box affects driving dynamics: the rear of the car is subjected to a heavier load, which can lead to a slightly lifted front end and reduced steering response. Some driver assistance systems, such as automatic emergency braking or lane keeping assistance, may also react differently due to the altered weight distribution. Always adhere to the maximum permissible load capacity of the towbar and the vehicle's roof carrying capacity, and consult your car's owner's manual for specific restrictions when using a towbar carrier.