The car monitor also boasts a very useful night vision and a 100m range, meaning you can use it in the home too.
What we love
Sometimes the simple ideas are the best, and a camera to keep an eye on the kids in the back of the car is certainly one of those. I’m ashamed to say I can’t keep count of how many times I’ve turned around while driving to see if the my toddler Tippi has finally given in to sleep or why my youngest, Heidi, has suddenly let out a screech, only to find she’s just dropped her book. And it’s that split second that could make all the difference. So, a product that prevents an accident of any kind in a car gets a big thumbs-up in my book.
The BabyCam Car Monitor actually works pretty well. It’s not the most complicated piece of equipment, but the beauty lies in its simplicity. I stuck the camera to a rear side window, which I directed towards my youngest. I tried to point the camera at both my girls at the same time but the headrests got in the way. I then attached the screen to my windscreen. By turning both on pieces of equipment I could see Heidi instantly. And that’s it.
The image was very clear, and whilst driving a quick glance at the screen was all I needed to alleviate any worries I had. The screen is pretty small and indiscreet, which is a plus considering you might have a sat nav too. Space isn’t an issue.
Though I don’t own a car with three rows of seats, I can see how this would be very effective in a car of that size. To glance back quickly in a Volkswagen Golf is one thing, to try and get a look at what’s going on rows back in a 4x4 could be an entirely different experience and one that could be helped by this little gadget.
The final feature I have to commend is the night vision. Even if you turned around in the dark to check on your kids you might not be able to see them, especially if in an unlit area, so using a camera with night vision to see your kids clearly is very reassuring.
What to watch out for
The first time I used the suction pads to stick the camera up it worked fine. I found second time around the stick wasn’t so great.
You can only charge the monitor up by using the cigarette lighter in the car so if you want to use the sat nav at the same time that could cause a problem. And, you can only charge the camera and monitor up while the car is in use, unless you buy a separate charger for the home.
Many may argue an in-car camera isn’t worth the investment when you have baby mirrors to keep an eye on the kids.
Who is the Storage Options BabyCam Car Monitor best for?
Parents who turn around in the car more often than they like, and can afford the luxury of an in-car monitor.
A simple concept, this in-car monitor could be very reassuring for parents. It’s simple to use, has a great image and the night vision is a fantastic feature. But, it’s deciding whether it’s a luxury or a necessity. The price tag, though not over-the-top, may prove one expense too far for new parents.
