By a show of hands, how many of you still have maps printed on paper in a storage compartment in your RV? Probably a few of you. I know mine is a historical diary of all the places I’ve taken our RV. Pages are torn, there are stains on half of the pages including coffee, oil and what appears to be blood (I’m pretty clumsy when it comes to basic repairs and such). However, I think it’s about time to retire that old book of maps and start embracing the myriad of technological gadgets and applications that are sure to get you from Point A to Point B with relative ease. Here are just a few of them!
RV GPS by Rand McNally
In my opinion, the RV GPS by Rand McNally is by far the best for RVers. Just input the type of RV you have and the GPS will actually apply a customized profile and directions to your particular RV. For example, if you are approaching sharp turns it will alert you. Also, we know how changes in speed limit, dirt roads and other potential hazards always seem to spring up without warning. You’ll be alerted to those things as well. Another fantastic feature is the real time weather updates and notifications of wind speed and forecaster, which includes current precipitation levels. This information can be invaluable! It’s by far my favorite navigation tool.
Google Maps
Hands down, Google Maps is one of the most popular apps out there! While not RV specific, you can always depend on Google Maps to get you where you need to go. It features turn by turn navigation along with traffic avoidance navigation to help keep you out of a jam and on time. Best of all…it’s free. Just download it to your smart phone and skip stopping at that sketchy gas station to ask the creepy proprietor for directions.
Waze
Waze is a fresh new face in the traffic app marketplace. This is a unique app as it relies on crowd-sourcing traffic issues in real time. For example, if you are driving down I-35 through Dallas, TX and there’s an imminent traffic issue, Waze relies on members of its community of users to report those traffic issues. Then it will give you the option to re-route to avoid any delays. We all know that delays can cost big bucks in fuel and propane usage, so having help finding alternate routes is always welcomed.
So there you have it. Gone are the days of carrying around a giant book of maps maps crammed into the glove box, or another space.And guys you’ll love that there will be no more stopping to ask for directions! The bottom line is that technology is here to stay. It’s only going to get more reliable and that means an easier trip.
There are a ton of other apps out there to help you get where you’re going. Which ones do you use? Share with us on Facebook or Google+.
