Top 8 RV Navigation Apps for a Stress-Free and Safe Road Trip Adventure
Embarking on an RV road trip is an exciting adventure, but it requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
One of the most crucial aspects of planning is choosing the right RV navigation app.
These apps can help you avoid restricted roads, find essential amenities, and even discover amazing roadside attractions.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best RV navigation apps to make your trip a breeze.
RV navigation apps are designed to address the unique challenges that come with driving or towing an RV.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider using one:
- Avoid Restricted Roads: Many roads, bridges, and tunnels have height, weight, or propane restrictions that can pose problems for RVers.
- Find RV-Friendly Amenities: Locating gas stations, parking lots, and campgrounds that can accommodate large vehicles can be challenging without the right tools.
- Plan Efficient Routes: RV navigation apps can help you plan the most efficient route, saving you time and fuel.
1. Google Maps
Best for Easy-to-Use Navigation
Google Maps is a familiar and user-friendly option for many travelers.
While it’s free and easy to use, it doesn’t account for RV dimensions, which can lead you to restricted roads. Many RVers use Google Maps for basic routing and then double-check the route using other RV-specific apps.
Pros:
- Familiar interface
- Free to use
- Integration with many other apps and websites
Cons:
- Doesn’t consider RV dimensions
- Assumes speed limit driving for arrival time calculations
2. Roadtrippers
Best for Awesome Roadside Attractions
Roadtrippers is a favorite among travelers looking for unique roadside attractions. The app offers navigation and allows you to search for campgrounds and RV services.
Upgrading to the Pro version provides additional features like offline maps and collaborative trip planning.
Pros:
- Extensive database of roadside attractions
- Campground and RV service searches
- Offline maps with Pro version
Cons:
- Free version has ads
- Pro version is a paid subscription
3. RV LIFE Trip Wizard and RV LIFE RV Safe GPS
Best for Customized RV Routes
RV LIFE Trip Wizard and RV LIFE RV Safe GPS allow you to customize your route based on your RV’s restrictions. The suite of RV LIFE tools offers additional trip-planning features, including campground searches and trip budgeting.
Pros:
- Customized routes based on RV dimensions
- Campground searches with club prioritization
- Trip budgeting tools
Cons:
- Paid subscription required for full features
- No free trial with monthly subscription
4. CoPilot GPS
Best for Different Map Styles
CoPilot GPS features an app specifically designed for RV navigation. It offers 2D and 3D maps, detailed road information, and offline map storage. The app also includes clear audio navigation and speed limit indicators.
Pros:
- Customized routes for RV weight and height
- Offline maps
- Detailed road information
Cons:
- No CarPlay integration
- Paid subscription required
5. inRoute
Best for White-Knuckle Drivers
inRoute allows you to devise a route based on curviness and elevation, making it ideal for avoiding challenging drives. The app also checks the weather and provides a heads-up about severe conditions ahead.
Pros:
- Route planning based on curviness and elevation
- Weather alerts
- CarPlay integration for iOS users
Cons:
- Paid subscription required for full features
- Currently only available for iOS devices
6. AllStays Camp & RV
Best for Finding RV-Friendly Amenities
AllStays includes a comprehensive database of campgrounds, big box stores, parking, truck stops, rest areas, and RV stores. The app also provides turn-by-turn directions and weather updates.
Pros:
- Extensive database of RV-friendly amenities
- Turn-by-turn directions
- Weather updates
Cons:
- Paid subscription required
- Not available on Android devices
7. GasBuddy
Best for Finding Gas Stops
GasBuddy helps you find gas stations and displays fuel prices, making it easy to find the most affordable options on your route.
The app also offers a premium subscription with additional benefits like gas station deals and roadside assistance.
Pros:
- Finds nearby gas stations
- Displays fuel prices
- Premium subscription offers additional benefits
Cons:
- Not a full navigation app
- Premium subscription is a paid feature
8. iExit
Best for Planning Pit Stops
iExit provides real-time information about services and amenities at upcoming highway exits. The app’s intuitive interface allows you to easily browse through a list of services, organized by exit number.
Pros:
- Real-time information about upcoming exits
- Compatible with CarPlay
- Free to download
Cons:
- Limited to highway exits
- May not include all amenities
- Test the App Before Your Trip: Download and explore any app of interest in advance, taking advantage of available free trials.
- Double-Check Routes: Even with the best apps, it’s a good idea to double-check your route for any potential issues.
- Plan Ahead: The larger your rig, the more advance planning is recommended. Consider stopping at truck stops or certain chain gas stations with larger lots.
Conclusion
Choosing the right RV navigation app can make a significant difference in the smoothness and safety of your road trip.
Whether you’re looking for easy-to-use navigation, customized routes, or the best roadside attractions, there’s an app out there to meet your needs.
Plan ahead, test the apps, and enjoy the journey!
