5 Best RV GPS Apps for Motorhome Owners to Navigate Easily
RV GPS apps, like Garmin RV, CoPilot RV, RV Trip Wizard, Sygic GPS, and RV Parky, enhance motorhome journeys by providing customized navigation, offline capabilities, extensive RV-friendly points of interest, real-time traffic updates, and enhanced safety features.
Embarking on an RV adventure means embracing the freedom of the open road. But navigating large motorhomes can be challenging. Luckily, RV GPS apps provide a solution.
These specialized apps help you navigate your travel trailer, considering the complexities of your journey. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five RV GPS apps to enhance your road trip.
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Garmin RV GPS App
The Garmin RV GPS App is our top choice for its comprehensive features designed specifically for RV travel. This versatile app ensures you are well-prepared for your journey by considering the size and weight of your RV when suggesting routes.
Additionally, it provides real-time traffic updates, weather forecasts, and fuel prices – all essential information for planning and adjusting your trip. In addition to its advanced navigation capabilities, the Garmin RV app also grants access to a database of RV parks and service locations. According to RV Lifestyle, here are a few ups and downs –
RV Lifestyle
- Garmin 1095 is a new $899 RV GPS introduced at CES 2023. Very expensive but made for large RVs.
- Provides alternate directions from other GPS like Apple Maps. Difficult to know which to trust.
- Considers RV size for routing, avoiding tight turns, low bridges, etc. Helpful for towing large RVs.
- Shows aerial view of destination. Helpful to see parking/approach.
- Large 10″ display takes up windshield space. Had to mount with suction cup.
- Mic not as sensitive mounted far away. Ideal to mount closer.
- Can’t find KOAs or Love’s stations easily. Major flaw vs Apple Maps/Siri.
- Screen has glare issues from sun reflection. Can make it hard to see.
- Very expensive at $899. Garmin offers more affordable options still with great features.
- Overall very nice unit but hard to recommend over smartphone integration given high price.
Whether you require a quick stop or a place to park overnight, this app has you covered. Its user-friendly interface and dependable performance make it indispensable for any RV enthusiast.
RV Trip Wizard App
Next is the RV Trip Wizard App, a highly-rated comprehensive trip planner. RV Trip Wizard allows you to plan your itinerary, monitor your budget, and discover intriguing attractions along your route.
The app provides an extensive database of campgrounds, RV parks, and points of interest. Simply input your vehicle’s specifications, and the software will generate a personalized RV-friendly route. Here’s what Wil & Jen say about the app –
Wil & Jen
- They use RV Trip Wizard, part of RV Life, to plan RV trips. It has tools like campground reviews, GPS, and trip planning.
- You can sign up for a 7 day free trial. Matt has a discount code for 25% off (mattsrvreviews).
- When starting a new trip, enter the start date and location. Input your RV details for routing and alerts.
- Build your trip by adding stops. Search campgrounds and add to trip. Lock in dates you must be somewhere.
- Keep most stops flexible so you can move days around easily. Add cities first, then campgrounds later.
- Use map view to find campgrounds. Click them to check reviews. Filter by amenities.
- Add must-have events first. Plan around them. RV Trip Wizard shows open nights needing hotels.
- Use entire trip view to see full route. Turn off POIs for clean view.
- Add points of interest like fuel, rest areas, stores. Useful for trip planning.
- RV Trip Wizard integrates with Campground Reviews. Access reviews without leaving trip planner.
Moreover, the app syncs with other devices, granting you access to your trip details anytime, whether you’re driving or enjoying your time at the campsite.
CoPilot RV App
The CoPilot RV App is another fantastic GPS option designed specifically for motorhome travel. Its standout feature is its offline navigation capability, making it an excellent choice for those venturing into areas with spotty internet coverage.
With CoPilot RV, you can navigate confidently, knowing you won’t get lost even when you’re off the grid.
CoPilot RV also has a robust set of features such as detailed voice directions, speed limit warnings, and lane guidance, all aimed at making your journey safer and more enjoyable. It also includes millions of pre-loaded points of interest, so finding a place to rest, refuel, or explore is never a problem.
Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps App
For a GPS app with extensive map coverage, choose the Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps App. It offers excellent 3D maps of over 200 countries, which can be accessed offline.
This allows you to navigate worldwide without data concerns. The Sygic app also includes RV-friendly features such as personalized routing, live traffic updates, and advanced safety functions.
Additionally, its user-friendly interface and efficient performance make RV navigation simpler and more convenient.
RV Parky App
Finally, we have the RV Parky App—a free resource built by a full-time RVer, specifically for the RV community. This app allows you to find and review over 25,000 campgrounds, RV parks, and rest areas in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Beyond its extensive database, RV Parky also includes a trip planner feature, allowing you to plan your route and find the best places to stop along the way. While it may not have the advanced navigation features of some other apps on this list, it’s an excellent resource for finding your next stop or overnight parking spot.
Benefits of Using RV GPS Apps
Improved Navigation for Motorhomes
Standard GPS systems are not always suitable for RVs, as they don’t account for the unique dimensions and weight of these large vehicles. RV GPS apps solve this problem by providing customized navigation based on your vehicle’s specifics.
This means you can avoid roads with low bridges, narrow lanes, or weight restrictions—ensuring smooth and stress-free navigation.
Customized Routing for RVs
One of the main advantages of using an RV-specific GPS app is the ability to create custom routes.
Whether you’re driving a compact camper or a full-size motorhome, these apps allow you to input your vehicle’s height, length, weight, and other specifications. The app then uses this data to suggest routes that are suitable for your specific RV, avoiding any potential roadblocks or hazards.
Access to RV-Friendly Points of Interest
Another benefit of RV GPS apps is their extensive databases of RV-friendly points of interest. These include campgrounds, RV parks, rest stops, gas stations, and more. Some apps even provide user reviews and ratings, helping you choose the best spots for your needs and preferences.
Real-Time Traffic Updates for RV Routes
Real-time traffic updates are another useful feature offered by many RV GPS apps. These updates can alert you to road closures, accidents, or heavy traffic ahead—allowing you to adjust your route and avoid unnecessary delays.
Enhanced Safety and Security Features
Finally, RV GPS apps often come with added safety features such as speed limit alerts, lane guidance, and voice-guided directions. These features not only make driving easier but also significantly enhance the safety of your journey.
What is the best GPS system for an RV?
Choosing the best GPS system for an RV largely depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, based on user reviews, features, and reliability, the Garmin RV GPS App is often touted as one of the best options.
Its comprehensive set of features, accurate navigation, and user-friendly interface make it a top contender in the realm of RV GPS systems.
Is an RV Garmin worth it?
Yes, investing in a Garmin RV GPS app is absolutely worth it if you’re an avid RVer. The app offers a wide range of valuable features specifically tailored for RVs, including custom routing, real-time traffic updates, extensive points of interest, and much more.
It ensures safer, smoother, and more enjoyable RV journeys, making it a worthwhile investment for any motorhome enthusiast.
Do I really need an RV GPS?
An RV GPS isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone planning to travel by motorhome. Unlike standard GPS systems, RV GPS apps take into account the unique challenges associated with driving a large vehicle, such as height restrictions, road weight limits, and more.
They also offer RV-specific points of interest, real-time traffic updates, and other features that can significantly enhance your travel experience. Therefore, if you want to ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable RV journey, investing in an RV GPS is a must.
Does Apple Maps have an RV mode?
As of now, Apple Maps does not offer a specific RV mode. While you can still use it for basic navigation, it won’t provide the same RV-specific features as dedicated RV GPS apps.
It won’t take into account your RV’s size and weight when suggesting routes, nor will it offer access to an extensive database of RV parks, campgrounds, and other points of interest. Therefore, for a safer and more tailored RV journey, it’s recommended to opt for a specialized RV GPS app.
All in all, embarking on an RV journey is a thrilling adventure. With the right RV GPS app in your arsenal, you can avoid common navigation pitfalls and enjoy a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable trip. Whether you’re a seasoned RVer or planning your first motorhome adventure, these five apps are excellent tools to enhance
