10 Must Have Apps For RVers

Things do not always go as planned. The best we can do is be as prepared as possible. Taking advantage of technology, there is an arsenal of apps and websites that every RVer needs in their prevention kit. Most apps are free or low cost and make your travels less stressful and more enjoyable.

While there are numerous websites and apps available that offer information to aid in the search for RV parks, campgrounds, or boondocking locations, none are comprehensive. Most RVers use multiple apps or websites to plan their trips and navigate. The internet has revolutionized how people research and plan their RV trips and the following apps and websites are among the most popular with RVers.

Google Maps

Google Maps is a favorite navigation app for many but it is not designed for big rigs. If towing a trailer or driving a Class A you probably don’t want to depend solely on Google Maps but the app still has a place in your arsenal of apps.

CoPilot GPS

CoPilot GPS is a staple for many RVers because it offers RV specific routing. Routes are calculated according to your vehicle’s size and class (weight, length, height) which prevents dangerous encounters such as low bridges or propane restricted tunnels. It is also a map app that is preloaded with thousands of Points of Interest (POI) to help find nearby places like ATMs, restaurants, gas stations, and more. It can be used with or without a data connection.

Campendium

Campendium is a comprehensive site of RV park reviews, dump stations, campsite photos, free camping sites, internet, and connectivity availability. Created by experienced RVers to bring together scattered information that Rvers need to plan trips and save money, users post reviews and photos keeping the site up-to-date.

Indexed by RV parks, national parks, state parks, and national forests, filters allow users to search by the amenities, price, and connectivity. Accessible on the web and iOS app, this site is considered indispensable by many RVers.

Allstays

Allstays offers an app through the Apple store and a website that is accessible from any web browser. Allstays consistently makes it to the most valuable app list of RVers partly because of its comprehensive collection of campground reviews, rest areas, low bridges, and RV dump sites. Filters add to the user experience. Turn-by-turn navigation assistance with the ability to map out different stops on your route is one reason this is a great companion app.

RV Parky

RV Parky is one of the most complete collection of RV parks, campgrounds, rest areas, and gas stations that is still free and ad-free. The parks are categorized by commercial or public parks with information and pictures. RV Parky was built by a fulltime RVer and community members can add updates that ensure the app is as accurate as possible making it one of the most trusted for RVers. The app can become backlogged with user-submitted updates but is still updated more often than most apps.

The Weather Channel

Weather impacts our plans and we make decisions based on the weather forecast. The Weather Channel gives the user’s current location forecast, hourly and extended. It also allows the user to check what the weather will be along the travel route and at the destination. The app can also give severe weather alert updates.

WiFi Maps

WiFi Maps is the best free crowdsourced app for finding WiFi hotspots in the area. Using the filter for the most reliable WiFi helps avoid outdated information. The app is not intended to detect WiFi networks, it simply shows WiFi hotspots (and passwords) added by users along with comments. The Pro Version offers VPN secure anonymous connections, a serious consideration for staying safe online.

REI National Parks Guide

REI National Parks Guide covers the features of the various National parks, both little-visited and well-known. It includes trail and hike descriptions for the National Parks in the United States like Yellowstone and Yosemite. Trail maps don’t require cell connection, they are downloadable, but if you have cell/GPS signal you can track your realtime location. Content is kept fresh and relevant by user reviews and updates.

State Lines

State Lines is an essential app for any RVer who travels across state lines so as not to be caught off guard by different regulations, taxes or bans. The database downloads to your device so the app works even when out of cellular or WiFi coverage.

Towing and RV specific laws vary by state but with this $5 app, you can stay on top of over 50 points of information on all 50 states. The app is location-aware and can automatically show information on states near your location.

Offline Survival Manual

Offline Survival Manual goes beyond first aid. This handy app will have you prepared for any situation that may arise in your adventures. From how to build a fire to differentiating poisonous plants from edible ones, there are many tips on hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The above apps and websites offer different types of information that aid RVers in their travels and help avoid unwanted surprises. Excluded are apps that users report have become too expensive for the information they provide or changed terms so as to be too invasive. Some of the apps are only available from the Apple store but the websites are accessible to all operating systems. Technology is always changing and some companies are better at keeping their apps updated and relevant than others so always check recent reviews. Many of the most useful apps and websites offer both free and premium paid options. The free versions will often meet your needs.