How to build a covert camera window in a rooftop cargo carrier?

Seeking Advice
1

I want to modify a black rooftop cargo carrier by adding a covert window for a camera. The idea is to cut a hole in the side, attach a window material, apply one-way film, and have a camera inside recording 24/7 off to the side of my car.

My main challenges are:

  • What materials to use for the window?
  • How to attach the window to the black plastic smoothly?
  • What kind of trim to use to cover the edges?

Any tips on making this look professional and discreet?

2

Most people won’t notice your car, so neatness might not matter much for camouflage. If you want it to look nice, cut two oval-shaped pieces of dark-tinted Lexan for symmetry, so it looks like faux windows on both sides of the carrier. The actual camera would be behind one of the windows.

Cut Lexan with a jigsaw and shape it with a sander. Use a blowtorch to make the edges clear and shiny. Attach the Lexan with glue or rivets. Dark tint will hide the glue and make it blend seamlessly.

3

@ashionaa
Great tips! What tool would you recommend to cut the cargo carrier without cracking it?

4

kelly12 said:
@ashionaa
Great tips! What tool would you recommend to cut the cargo carrier without cracking it?

An oscillating tool is excellent for precise cuts. If you get too much melted plastic buildup, slow down or switch to a fine-tooth hand saw. For just one hole, a hole saw attached to a drill works well too.

5

How are you planning to power the cameras 24/7?

6

Curtis said:
How are you planning to power the cameras 24/7?

I’m thinking of using a portable power supply pack inside the carrier. Do you have any recommendations for power packs that could handle this? I’m looking at cameras like the Reolink or Arlo cellular models.

7

@kelly12
Running a camera 24/7 will drain power quickly. Are you okay with recharging the battery frequently? A large car battery might last a couple of days, while smaller power banks will give you only a few hours. What’s your goal with this setup?

8

@Curtis
I mainly want it for live viewing when needed, not continuous recording. It’s for monitoring the street for people walking by. What kind of portable battery would you suggest for USB-C cameras?

9

@kelly12
For sporadic viewing, you could use a Reolink Go or similar cellular camera. Pair it with a large Anker power bank, which should give you a decent runtime depending on usage.