Getting a new camper shell is exciting. But after you learn how to install a truck canopy, you might sit in the driver's seat and notice a scary problem: You can't see out the back window!
Suddenly, your rearview mirror feels useless. Whether your canopy has dark tinted windows, solid steel doors, or is just packed with camping gear, losing your rear vision can make driving stressful.
Don't worry. This is a normal problem for truck owners. Here are four simple ways to fix your blind spots and drive safely with a truck canopy.
1. Move Your Digital Rearview Camera
Many modern trucks (built after 2020) have a cool feature called a "digital rearview mirror." This uses a camera on the roof of your truck cab to show you what is behind you.
When you put a canopy on your truck, the canopy roof blocks this camera. The fix is simple: camera relocation. You can buy a cheap kit online to move that camera from your truck's roof to the back of the canopy. This gives you a perfect, wide video view of the road behind you, no matter how much gear is in your truck bed.
(Note: The regular backup camera on your tailgate is usually fine. The canopy does not block it!)
2. Keep the Glass Clean (The Double-Window Trap)
If you have a canopy with glass windows, you now have to look through two pieces of glass: your truck cab window and the canopy window.
Dust, rain, and snow can easily get trapped in the small gap between these two windows. When the sun hits that dirty glass, it creates a blinding glare. Make it a habit to clean both the inside and outside of your canopy glass every time you wash your truck.
3. Organize Your Gear Smartly
If your windows are clean but you still can't see, your gear is probably in the way. Stacking boxes and bags all the way to the ceiling will turn your truck bed into a dark cave.
Instead of tossing your stuff in a messy pile, use smart truck bed storage ideas to keep things low. For example, instead of piling bags in the middle, you can hang your tools on the sides. A great way to do this is by learning about the function of MOLLE panels. These panels let you strap gear to the inside walls, keeping the middle of your truck bed completely clear for your rearview mirror.
4. Learn to Drive Like a Trucker
If you buy a heavy-duty canopy with solid steel doors (no windows), your rearview mirror will be completely dark. You will have to drive like a professional truck driver!
Commercial drivers only use their two outside side mirrors. It takes a few days to get used to it, but soon it will feel completely natural. Just make sure you adjust your side mirrors correctly before you start driving so you can see your blind spots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it illegal to cover the back window of a truck? No, it is not illegal in most places, as long as you have two working side mirrors (left and right). Think about delivery vans or big semi-trucks—they don't have back windows either!
Do truck canopies make the truck bed completely dark? Yes, they can block a lot of sunlight, especially if they don't have side windows. We recommend adding some cheap LED battery lights to the ceiling of your canopy so you can find your gear at night.
Where can I learn more about truck canopies before buying? If you have more questions about locks, leaks, or materials, check out our complete Truck Canopy FAQ for the best answers in 2026!