Travel and Navigation Tips for RV Adventures

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Plan Your Route Carefully

Not all roads are RV-friendly, so planning your route in advance is essential to avoid low clearances, weight restrictions, and narrow roads.

Route Planning Tips:

• Use RV-Specific GPS: RV GPS systems, such as Garmin RV or Rand McNally RV GPS, consider your RV’s height, weight, and length, guiding you along RV-friendly routes.
• Plan for Fuel Stops: RVs have larger fuel needs, so plan fuel stops along your route, especially in rural areas with limited access.
• Research Low Clearance and Weight Restrictions: Use resources like the AllStays app or websites that list low-clearance bridges and restricted roads.
• Avoid Busy City Traffic: Avoid peak hours in congested areas to prevent delays and stressful navigation.
• Check Road Conditions: Monitor weather, road closures, and traffic updates in advance, especially during winter or in mountainous regions.

Tip: Carry a road atlas as a backup to your GPS in case you lose signal in remote areas.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Use RV-Friendly Navigation Apps

There are several navigation apps designed specifically for RVers that provide customized routes and helpful information.

Top RV Navigation Apps:

• RV Life: Helps you plan trips, find campgrounds, and offers turn-by-turn directions based on RV size.
• CoPilot GPS: Designed for RVs and larger vehicles, providing offline maps and route planning that avoids restricted roads.
• AllStays Camp & RV: Lists RV-friendly campsites, rest areas, dump stations, and low-clearance warnings.
• GasBuddy: Finds the cheapest fuel stations along your route, which can be particularly useful for RV travel.
• Roadtrippers: Ideal for planning scenic routes and discovering points of interest, attractions, and campgrounds.

Tip: Download offline maps in case you lose cell service, especially if traveling in remote areas.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Prepare for Parking and Maneuvering

Parking and maneuvering an RV can be challenging, particularly in unfamiliar areas. Practicing and using the right tools can make this easier.

Parking and Maneuvering Tips:

• Practice in an Open Area: Get comfortable with your RV’s turning radius, braking distance, and backing up in a large, open area before heading out on a trip.
• Use Spotters or Backup Cameras: Have a travel partner spot you while parking, or use a backup camera to help you avoid obstacles.
• Check Campsite Maps and Reviews: Research campgrounds in advance to make sure your RV can fit comfortably in the sites and that roads are navigable for larger vehicles.
• Park Strategically at Rest Stops and Stores: Choose spots where you can easily pull through or back out, rather than getting boxed in.

Tip: Download a parking app like Park4Night to help you find RV-friendly parking in cities and rest stops along the way.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Know Your RV’s Height, Length, and Weight

Knowing the exact dimensions of your RV helps you navigate restricted routes and prevents dangerous situations with low clearances or weight limits.

Tips for Managing RV Dimensions:

• Post a Quick Reference Card: Keep a note of your RV’s height, length, width, and weight on the dashboard for easy access.
• Watch for Bridge and Tunnel Signs: Always check height clearance signs before passing under bridges or entering tunnels.
• Use Clearance Check Apps: Apps like Low Clearance and the AllStays app help you avoid routes with low overpasses or weight restrictions.
• Be Cautious with Gas Stations and Drive-Thrus: Avoid gas stations with low canopies or narrow lanes and never assume drive-thru areas can accommodate your RV.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Plan for Fuel and Rest Stops

Long distances can take a toll on both the driver and the vehicle. Plan regular stops for fuel, rest, and stretching to stay alert and energized.

Fuel and Rest Stop Tips:

• Plan Rest Breaks Every 2-3 Hours: Taking regular breaks helps reduce driver fatigue and allows passengers to stretch and relax.
• Use Truck Stops: Truck stops like Love’s, Pilot, and Flying J often have RV-friendly fuel lanes, larger parking spots, and RV amenities.
• Watch Your Fuel Gauge Closely: Avoid running your tank low, especially in remote areas. Plan for fuel stops in advance.
• Stay Overnight When Needed: Many Walmart locations, Cracker Barrel restaurants, and truck stops allow free overnight parking for RVs. Always check local policies.

Tip: Try to avoid filling up during peak hours to get in and out of gas stations more easily.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Adjust Your Driving Speed and Style

Driving an RV requires more care and attention than driving a regular vehicle. Adapting your speed and driving habits makes for a safer journey.

Driving Tips for RVs:

• Drive Slower Than Usual: RVs take longer to stop and turn, so maintain a moderate speed, especially in traffic or on winding roads.
• Avoid Sudden Braking and Lane Changes: Smooth and gradual movements keep your RV stable and prevent swaying.
• Use Your Mirrors Frequently: Monitor your blind spots and use your mirrors consistently, as RVs have larger blind spots than cars.
• Increase Following Distance: Keep extra space between you and the vehicle ahead to allow more time for braking.
• Downshift on Steep Hills: Use lower gears when driving downhill to avoid overusing the brakes and overheating them.

Tip: Check your RV’s tire pressure regularly to ensure safe handling and fuel efficiency, particularly before long drives.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Know Where to Find Overnight Camping

Finding overnight stops that accommodate RVs is crucial, especially when planning long drives or arriving late.

Overnight Camping Tips:

• Use RV Park Apps: Apps like Campendium, iOverlander, and The Dyrt show campgrounds, RV parks, and free camping spots along your route.
• Check for Boondocking Sites: Websites like FreeCampsites.net list free public lands and boondocking locations where you can camp overnight without hookups.
• Look for Harvest Hosts and Hipcamp: These platforms offer unique places to park overnight, such as farms, vineyards, and private properties, for a fee or membership.
• Call Ahead to Confirm Availability: If stopping at a rest area, truck stop, or parking lot, call ahead to confirm they allow overnight RV parking.

Tip: Arrive early to popular overnight sites to secure a spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Prepare for Emergencies

Having a plan for unexpected events helps you stay calm and safe if issues arise on the road.

Emergency Preparation Tips:

• Carry an RV Tool Kit: Keep tools, tire repair kits, fuses, and basic spare parts like light bulbs and hoses on board.
• Keep Emergency Roadside Assistance Handy: Services like AAA RV, Good Sam, or Coach-Net offer specialized RV towing and roadside help.
• Download Offline Maps and Emergency Contacts: Save offline maps for areas with poor cell coverage and keep contact information for roadside assistance accessible.
• Check the Weather Forecast: Monitor weather conditions, particularly in mountainous or remote areas where storms can impact road safety.
• Have a First Aid Kit: Be prepared with first aid supplies in case of minor injuries or emergencies.

Tip: If you have a medical condition, keep an updated list of your medications and important health information in the RV.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Respect Local Regulations and Road Rules

Some areas have unique road regulations, especially regarding overnight parking and boondocking.

Regulation Tips:

• Follow “Leave No Trace” Principles: When boondocking, avoid littering, respect wildlife, and pack out everything you bring.
• Check Local Laws for Overnight Parking: Rules vary widely, so verify policies on overnight parking in public areas.
• Follow RV Weight Limits: Some roads and bridges have specific weight limits, so be sure you know your RV’s weight and comply with all regulations.
• Respect Campground Quiet Hours: Be considerate of other campers by keeping noise to a minimum during posted quiet hours.

TRAVEL AND NAVIGATION TIPS

Key Takeaway: Navigate with Confidence and Enjoy the Journey

Navigating with an RV can be enjoyable with the right preparation and tools. By planning your route, using RV-friendly resources, and keeping emergency supplies on hand, you’ll ensure a safe and smooth journey no matter where the road takes you.

RV Expeditioners Pro Tip: Start planning your route with RV-friendly tools, and keep these travel and navigation tips in mind. With some preparation, you can enjoy stress-free travel and make the most of your RV adventure!