Rv Travel: Best Gps Devices For Safe Trips

When it comes to RV travel, a GPS device can be a real game-changer. While smartphones have navigation capabilities, a GPS designed specifically for RVs has additional features that can enhance your trip. For instance, RV-specific GPS devices can notify you of upcoming steep or narrow roads, allow you to filter campground amenities, and even redirect you to roads that are better suited for your vehicle based on its size and weight. This can be a huge advantage when navigating with a large motorhome or RV, ensuring you don't end up on roads that are too narrow or have low clearances.

Some popular options for RV-specific GPS devices include models from Garmin, Rand McNally, and Magellan. These devices offer features such as height and length input, backroad preferences, traffic and campground updates, and smartphone compatibility. They also provide larger screens for enhanced visibility and distraction-free navigation.

When choosing an RV GPS, consider factors such as your travel frequency to new destinations, ease of mounting, screen size, user-friendliness, and Bluetooth capability. Additionally, look for features like predictive text input and campground amenity filters to make your travels even more enjoyable and hassle-free.

Why an RV-specific GPS is worth the money

RV-specific GPS devices are worth the money because they offer a wide range of features that augment a smartphone and, in some cases, can even double as a full-featured tablet with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connectivity, and other nice additions, like a dash camera.

RV-Specific Features:

RV-specific GPS devices allow users to input their vehicle's size, weight, and height, ensuring that the routes provided are safe and accessible for their RV. These devices can also provide notifications about steep or narrow roads, low-clearance underpasses, and other potential hazards. They may also offer campground amenity filters and fuel-efficient route suggestions based on the RV's specifications.

Enhanced Visibility and User Experience:

RV-specific GPS devices often feature larger screens than smartphone navigation apps, making it easier for drivers to see the map and directions. Additionally, these devices usually have mounts that make them easy to install on the dashboard of an RV, ensuring a clear view of the screen while driving.

Distraction-Free Navigation:

Smartphones can be a dangerous distraction while driving due to constant notifications, calls, and texts. RV-specific GPS devices provide a dedicated and distraction-free navigation system, enhancing safety and helping drivers focus on the road.

Bluetooth and Smartphone Integration:

Many RV-specific GPS devices offer Bluetooth connectivity, allowing easy integration with smartphones. This enables hands-free calling and messaging, as well as the ability to sync with apps and receive live updates on weather and traffic conditions.

Predictive Text and Voice Commands:

RV-specific GPS devices often include predictive text features, making it easier to input complex destination names. Some devices also offer voice commands and voice-activated navigation, allowing drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Reliability and Accuracy:

RV-specific GPS devices are designed to provide accurate and reliable routing for RVs, taking into account their unique dimensions and restrictions. While smartphone navigation apps have improved, they may not always offer the same level of accuracy and may lack RV-specific features.

In conclusion, while smartphone navigation apps have their benefits, investing in an RV-specific GPS device can provide added safety, convenience, and peace of mind during your RV travels. These devices offer features tailored to the unique needs of RV owners, ensuring a more enjoyable and stress-free journey.

How to avoid low bridges and tight turns

When travelling in an RV, it's important to plan your route in advance to avoid low bridges and tight turns. Here are some tips to help you navigate these obstacles:

• Use a specialised RV GPS: Look for features like custom routing, which takes into account the size and weight of your RV, and road warnings for steep grades, sharp curves, and weight limits. The Garmin RV 785, for example, allows you to input your RV's dimensions and weight, and will route you away from low bridges and tight turns.
• Install a compatible app: Apps like CoPilot GPS, RV LIFE Trip Wizard, and RV LIFE RV Safe GPS allow you to input your RV's details and will plan a route accordingly. However, be aware that apps can sometimes provide strange or inefficient routes.
• Use multiple sources: No single tool is perfect, so it's a good idea to use a combination of a dedicated RV GPS, Google Maps, and other apps like Waze. That way, you can cross-reference directions and traffic information to find the best route.
• Plan ahead: Research your route in advance, looking out for tunnels, low bridges, and roads with weight restrictions. Tools like Google Earth and Street View can help you visualise your route and identify potential problems.
• Use a paper map: While high-tech solutions are great, sometimes a good old-fashioned paper map is the best tool for the job. Mark up your route with notes and highlights, and use sticky notes for important information.
• Check your surroundings: If in doubt, get a real-time view of your surroundings using Google Earth or Street View. This can help you confirm if you have enough clearance to pass under a bridge or make a tight turn.

The best RV GPS apps for your phone

RV-friendly GPS devices are a must-have for any road trip, helping you avoid low bridges and other hazards. While there are many GPS devices on the market, there are also several apps that can turn your phone into a powerful navigational tool. Here are some of the best RV GPS apps to help you plan your next adventure:

RV Life

RV Life is an all-in-one app that offers research, planning, and GPS routing features. It includes offline maps and allows you to input your RV's dimensions to avoid low bridges and tight turns. The app also provides access to a large database of campgrounds and amenities, making it easy to find a place to stay during your travels. RV Life also has a subscription service called RV Trip Wizard, which offers additional features such as trip planning and the ability to sync your planned trips with the app.

CoPilot GPS

CoPilot GPS is an intuitive app that uses offline maps, ensuring you can access your maps and routes even without a data connection. The app allows you to input your RV's dimensions and provides RV-specific data points to help you navigate safely. CoPilot GPS also offers a subscription service called RV Life, which includes additional features and access to a larger database of campgrounds and amenities.

TruckMap

TruckMap is an iPhone app designed to keep you safe on the road. By inputting your RV's dimensions, TruckMap will route you away from low bridges and other hazards. The app also provides real-time traffic updates and alerts, helping you avoid traffic jams and plan your trip efficiently. TruckMap is a great choice for those looking for a simple and reliable RV GPS app.

Garmin RV

The Garmin RV app is designed specifically for RV users and offers a range of features to make your travels easier. The app includes campground and amenity searches, as well as trip planning tools. You can also link the app to your smartphone, allowing you to access live weather and traffic updates. Additionally, the Garmin RV app offers hands-free calling and messaging, as well as voice-activated directions, making it a safe and convenient choice for RV navigation.

SmartRVroute II

SmartRVroute II is a phone app that provides reliable RV navigation. The app allows you to input your RV's length, width, and height, and will adjust your route to meet your needs. It also offers rerouting options if you encounter any issues along the way. SmartRVroute II includes traffic updates and has an annual subscription fee, making it a cost-effective choice for RV travelers.

RV Trip Wizard

RV Trip Wizard is a powerful trip planning tool that allows you to plan your RV trips in detail. The app offers a large database of campgrounds and amenities, as well as the ability to compare routes based on your preferences. RV Trip Wizard also includes a GPS feature, although some users have reported that it is not as reliable as other apps. Nonetheless, RV Trip Wizard is a great choice for those who want a comprehensive trip planning and navigation solution.

The best RV GPS devices

When it comes to RV travel, a GPS device is a must-have to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. While smartphones have navigation capabilities, RV-specific GPS devices offer exclusive features that can be invaluable for RV travellers.

Firstly, RV-specific GPS devices allow you to input your vehicle's dimensions, such as height, weight, and length, and will then redirect you to roads better suited for your RV, keeping you away from low bridges and tight corners. They also offer larger screens for enhanced visibility and distraction-free navigation, as well as campground amenity filters and the ability to find the most fuel-efficient route based on your vehicle's specifications.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RV GPS Device:

When shopping for an RV GPS device, there are several factors to consider:

• Frequency of Use:If you're mostly travelling to the same locations, you may not need an expensive, high-end GPS. However, if you enjoy exploring new areas, a quality GPS with up-to-date maps and features is a worthwhile investment.
• Mounting:Ensure the device can be easily mounted on your RV's dashboard.
• Screen Size:Select a screen size that suits your visibility needs. A larger screen can be beneficial, especially for those with visual impairments.
• User-Friendliness:Choose a device that is easy to use and navigate. There's no point in purchasing a feature-rich but complicated GPS that you won't end up using.
• Bluetooth Capability:Look for devices that offer Bluetooth connectivity to easily connect your phone and access additional features.
• Predictive Text:This feature is useful for last-minute detours or side trips, allowing you to quickly input complicated destination names.

Top RV GPS Devices:

Now, let's take a look at some of the top RV GPS devices on the market:

• Garmin RV 770 NA LMT-S:This device offers a large, bright display and allows you to input your RV's dimensions for clearance. It is easy to use and set up, and includes campground filters and a smartphone link app for traffic and weather updates.
• Garmin RV 760 LMT with Wireless Backup Camera:Featuring a 7" display, this Garmin model is easy to read and offers customized RV routing. It includes America's RV parks and service directory, voice commands, Bluetooth, and lifetime map and traffic updates.
• Magellan RoadMate RV 9145:The Magellan RoadMate RV 9145 has a 7" display and allows you to customize your route and input your RV's size and features. It is easy to use and securely attaches to your windshield.
• Magellan RoadMate RV 9490T-LMB:With a 7" HD touchscreen, this Magellan model offers dual usage mode for RVs and cars. It includes RV safety navigation features, customizable RV routes, fuel prices, advanced weather alerts, and specific points of interest like Good Sam RV Travel Guide and RV Sani Dump Stations.
• TomTom Via 1605M RV GPS Navigator:This TomTom model offers a 6" screen and lifetime traffic and map updates. It is easy to mount and includes comprehensive maps of Canada and Mexico.
• Hieha Navigation System for RVs:With a 7" touchscreen, this unique GPS can be programmed according to your RV's weight, height, and length. It also has a car, pedestrian, and bicycle mode, and can double as a mini-tablet for watching videos and playing games.
• Vinone GPS:The Vinone GPS offers the widest screen at 9 inches, ensuring easy visibility. It includes a sunshade to reduce glare and two mounting options for convenience.
• CARRVAS GPS Navigation for RV:The CARRVAS GPS has a large, 7" screen and provides clear directions and alerts for hazards like traffic and altitude restrictions. It also has a 3-hour standby battery life and is headphone compatible.
• LONGRUF GPS Navigation System:This GPS system includes entertainment features like Ebook, video, and photo viewing. It allows input of length, width, and height for customized routes and has a traffic light reminder and a no-fuss window mount.
• Garmin RV 770:Perfect for any RV style, the Garmin RV 770 has a 6.95" touchscreen and offers campground and amenity searches based on your RV's dimensions. It connects to a smartphone app for weather and traffic updates and enables hands-free calling and messaging.
• Garmin RV 785:The Garmin RV 785 provides warnings for sharp curves and steep grades and can connect to a backup camera for added safety. It has a 6.95" high-quality display, WiFi and Bluetooth compatibility, and access to various travel apps.

How to use a combination of RV GPS and smartphone maps

RV-specific GPS devices are a great tool to have when travelling in your motorhome. They can help you find your way, and also offer additional features such as a database of campground locations and custom routing based on the size and weight of your vehicle. However, they can be slow to update and may not have the same level of accuracy as a smartphone.

Smartphone apps, on the other hand, are convenient as they are always in your pocket and easy to use. They also have the advantage of regular updates, ensuring that any changes or errors to maps are corrected quickly. However, they rely on a cellphone network, which may not always be available in remote locations.

So, how can you use a combination of both to enhance your RV travel experience?

Firstly, invest in a good RV-specific GPS device. This will be your primary tool for navigation, as it will have features tailored to your needs as an RV owner. Make sure to get one with a large, clear display that is easy to read and interact with while driving. The Garmin RV 780 & Traffic and the Rand McNally OverDryve 7 RV are two great options to consider.

Next, download some reliable RV-specific navigation apps onto your smartphone. These apps should have offline maps and RV-centric features such as custom routing and a database of campgrounds. Good options include CoPilot RV (Android or Apple) and RV Life GPS App (Android or Apple). These apps will come in handy when your dedicated GPS device feels sluggish or needs an update.

Additionally, you can use your smartphone to access other useful RV-related apps. For example, GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest gas prices, and RV Dump Stations (Apple) or RV Dump Sites (Android) can help you locate places to dump your tanks. You can also use apps like RVillage to connect with other RVers or WiFi Map to find free WiFi hotspots.

By using a combination of a dedicated RV GPS device and smartphone apps, you'll have the best of both worlds—the reliability and RV-specific features of a stand-alone GPS, as well as the convenience and versatility of a smartphone. This setup will ensure that you always have a reliable way to navigate and enhance your overall RV travel experience.

Frequently asked questions