Best RV GPS of 2023: Traverse the Country with Confidence
These high-tech GPS units will keep you on the right track no matter where you want to explore.
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There’s something so exciting about exploring the country in your RV, unless you’re lost and trying to navigate your big rig through a crowded construction zone. Gone are the days when you had to rely solely on paper maps that could never be refolded once they were opened. Today’s RV GPS units offer an abundance of features that will get you wherever you want to go with ease. I’ve taken the liberty of selecting the best available, so check these out and purchase your RV GPS unit with confidence.
Garmin Overlander Touchscreen GPS Navigator
- Includes GPS plus must-have accessories
- Offers specialized routing for the specific size and weight of your RV
- Includes directory of RV parks and services
- Small screen
- Pricey
Joganve GPS Navigator
- Tempered glass touch screen
- Free lifetime map updates
- Strong, easy to use suction cup mount
- Some settings can be tricky to learn
Garmin RV 890 Navigator
- Can be used in portrait or landscape mode
- Includes mapping and alerts specifically for campers
- Built-in Wi-Fi for up-to-date maps
- Somewhat lower resolution
- Simplified, not detailed, maps
Summary List
Best Overall: Garmin Overlander Touchscreen GPS
Best Value: Joganve GPS Navigation
Honorable Mention: Garmin RV 890 Navigator
Best for Traffic: TomTom Go Comfort GPS Navigator
Most Adaptable: Garmin RV GPS Navigator
Best Bluetooth: ViviLink Bluetooth GPS Navigation
Best for Wireless Updates: TomTom Go Comfort GPS Navigator
Our Methodology
The RV GPS devices that I’ve highlighted as the best available are those that offer crucial features for those hitting the road to camp. I considered devices that were specifically made for RV use as well as other GPS units that could work for any type of vehicle. Those that offered large, easy-to-read screens with conveniences like touchscreen capability, turn-by-turn navigation, and regular map updates were my top picks. To assess how reliable, trustworthy, and convenient these devices were in real-life settings, I also looked at user reviews.
Best RV GPS Reviews & Recommendations
Specs
- Mount style: Magnetic
- Screen size: 7.0 inches
- Hands-free capability: Voice-activated navigation
Pros
- Includes GPS plus must-have accessories
- Specialized routing for size and weight of your RV
- Includes directory of RV parks and services
Cons
- Small screen
- Expensive
The Garmin Overlander Touchscreen GPS Navigator is so much more than just a basic GPS device and its necessary accessories. It’s a comprehensive kit that’ll keep you navigating on- or off-road with ease. With a high-resolution 7.0-inch edge-to-edge touchscreen, you’ll enjoy custom routing that takes your RV’s size and weight into account while plotting. It features an easy-to-use powered magnetic mount, topographic maps for all of North and South America, backup camera compatibility, voice-activated navigation, and much more. Plus, you’ll love the ability to pair your phone with the GPS unit for hands-free calling, smart notifications, and WiFi software updates.
This RV GPS does have a smaller screen than some other products. It’s also expensive, but you can take this GPS anywhere, whether inside your RV or out hiking and exploring by foot, making it a versatile and well-designed investment.
Specs
- Mount style: Suction cup
- Screen size: 7.0 inches
- Hands-free capability: No
Pros
- Free lifetime map updates
- Supports multiple languages
- Sensitive glass touchscreen
- Offers four route style choices
Cons
- Details can be tricky
If you don’t want to invest a lot in your RV GPS but still want essential, easy-to-use features, you’ll want to consider Joganve GPS Navigation. Suitable for use in RVs as well as cars, trucks, and all types of vehicles, this device offers a 7.0-inch tempered glass touchscreen with great resolution at a price that fits into almost any budget. Loaded with North and South American maps, you’ll enjoy free lifetime map updates, and you can even reach out to customer service if you need international maps for free. There are four route choices to choose when planning your route, including fast, green, and easy. And you’ll have up to 32 GB of extended memory to store all of the maps you need.
It can be a little tricky to get the hang of all of the settings and modes on this RV GPS. You’ll want to play around with it before you hit the road to avoid potential delays (or frustrations).
Specs
- Mount style: Screw down or suction cup
- Screen size: 8.0 inches
- Hands-free capability: Voice assistant
Pros
- Display rotates for landscape or portrait viewing
- Custom routes for RVs, trailers, and pull-behinds
- Preloaded with campgrounds and points of interest
- Built-in Wi-Fi for updating maps
Cons
- Not the sharpest screen resolution
- More simplified maps
Enjoy the journey with this Garmin GPS on your dash. It features a large 8.0-inch screen that can display your map in landscape or portrait mode. The routes provided are custom created for your motorhome and pull-behind. You’ll appreciate the road warnings that help you prepare for sharp curves and changing road conditions. It also comes preloaded with the best spots for staying a few nights in the RV or admiring the view. The built-in Wi-Fi is nice for keeping your maps up to date. The built-in voice assistant makes operating your GPS easy and safer.
Unfortunately, the screen resolution for this navigator isn’t as sharp as other units on this list. This can result in maps that look slightly blurry or not as crisp as other units. The maps are also simplified, which can leave you feeling like they lack information or details.
Specs
- Mount style: Reversible suction cup
- Screen size: 6.0 inches
- Hands-free capability: Yes
Pros
- Includes free U.S., Canada, and Mexico maps
- Delivers real-time traffic updates and adjusts routes
- Advanced guidance around road closures
- Three-month speed camera alerts included
Cons
- Very small screen
- Must use the touchscreen to set routes
The TomTom Go Comfort GPS Navigation Device is a great RV addition if you’re hoping to beat or avoid traffic on your road trips. Whether or not you’re familiar with a city, you never know what kinds of delays traffic might crop up and ruin your day. This GPS will give you the real-time guidance you need to avoid stalls, stops, and slow roads. Its touchscreen display and free U.S., Canada, and Mexico map updates keep your knowledge fresh. It also includes three months of speed camera alerts with your purchase. You can choose to extend this feature with a subscription once the trial period is up.
One drawback to this convenient and smart navigation system is that it has one of the smallest screen sizes on the list. At only 6.0 inches, it can be tough to see if your RV is particularly large. However, with spoken turn-by-turn directions, many folks don’t have an issue.
Specs
- Mount style: Suction cup
- Screen size: 10.0 inches
- Hands-free capability: Yes
Pros
- High-definition touchscreen
- Creates custom routes based on RV size and weight
- Includes RV parks and services on maps
- Hands-free voice commands
Cons
- Suction-cup mount is weak
- Bit of a learning curve
Have more fun on your next RV adventure with this advanced GPS navigator. It features a large, 10.0-inch high-definition touchscreen. It stands out because it creates custom routes that take into account the size and weight of your rig. This ensures you have the best route for your motorhome or pull-behind. It will also issue warnings for sharp curves, weight limits, and steep grades. Your GPS will come preprogrammed with a directory of RV parks and services. The Wi-Fi connectivity makes updating easy. The voice command feature makes using your navigator while driving safer.
Unfortunately, you may find the user interface to be confusing to navigate at first. It gets easier as you use it. The suction cup may also struggle to hold the oversized screen on your windshield.
Specs
- Mount style: Suction cup
- Screen size: 7 inches
- Hands-free capability: Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- Voice guidance
- Bluetooth
- Free lifetime North America map updates
- 2D and 3D map views
Cons
- Must be wired to vehicle to work
If you don’t want to worry about keeping your eyes on the road while dealing with a GPS and a smartphone, the ViviLink Bluetooth GPS Navigation device can help. Thanks to its Bluetooth capability, this RV GPS can sync to your phone, allowing you to get all of your alerts (and answer calls and notifications) via your GPS. You can see everything from turn-by-turn directions to smart notifications for calls, text messages, and even calendar reminders, while keeping your hands on the wheel. Plus, this touchscreen GPS device allows you to set customized routes based on your vehicle type, driving usage, and even RV height so you get the right route with no restrictions.
Although this GPS device has a built-in battery, it’s merely meant to be a backup power source. You need to wire the GPS to your RV in order to keep it powered up and running while you’re on the road.
Specs
- Mount style: Suction cup
- Screen size: 6 inches
- Hands-free capability: No
Pros
- Free maps for North America
- Delivers accurate, updated traffic information
- Alerts for speed cameras, road changes
- Bluetooth
Cons
- No voice-activated control
- Updates can be frustrating
If you need a GPS that’s always updating and staying in tune with local road traffic or changes, the TomTom Go Comfort GPS Navigation Device might be the right fit. Designed for road tripping with smart routing, this RV-friendly GPS device updates via Wi-Fi so you have real-time data on traffic and the time expected to reach your destination. In addition to intelligent planning, this GPS also alerts you to speed cameras, road updates or changes, and more. The wireless connectivity ensures maps and software are updated, too. Plus, if you’d like, you can sync your smartphone via Bluetooth so you get messages read out loud right on your GPS.
Just keep in mind that this device doesn’t offer voice-activated control, so you do have to physically use the touchscreen. Additionally, the updates can lag, which leads to some frustration when you’re on the go.
Our Verdict
The Garmin Overlander Touchscreen GPS Navigator is a top choice for any RV owner because it’s both a comprehensive on-road option but also a compact and portable choice that offers off-road directions for hiking and exploring on foot. And the GPS unit itself is a standout, with plenty of handy features. If it’s value you prioritize, then another great alternative is the Joganve GPS Navigation, which is simple yet affordable.
What to Consider When Buying an RV GPS
Wondering if an RV GPS is a must-have device for your road tripping needs? Here’s what you should think about when you’re trying to decide.
Types of RV GPS Devices
Smartphone
Your smartphone is a perfectly fine RV GPS. And it’s one type you’ll absolutely want to consider. You can open the maps app to navigate your RV anywhere. With always-up-to-date maps, easy location pinpointing, and the ability to find your way with turn-by-turn directions, it’s both convenient and incredibly versatile. The only potential downside is that you might not be able to easily find your way if you lose signal.
Plug-In
This is the most popular type of GPS unit. It comes with a plug that you will hook into your RV. These units are nice because you can take them with you from one RV to another or use it in your car. Installing them is easier because you’ll mount them on a base that hooks to your dash or the window. They are the most affordable and come with a range of features. For more functionality, some plug-in models also have a battery backup.
Hardwired
This type of GPS unit requires you to install it into your RV permanently. It will be a screen that looks similar to a modern passenger car infotainment system. These are the systems that are most likely to have an Android-based operating system. They will also have more infotainment features beyond navigation. This is nice if you have the dashboard space for installation and are looking for more than just a GPS.
Battery-Operated
These are the most portable GPS units. You won’t find many RV GPS units that are solely battery powered. However, there are some, and they are perfect if you plan to take your GPS with you on adventures once you reach the campground. Look for one with a powerful battery that will last several hours. It should also have a quick recharge time, so you aren’t stuck waiting for it to charge.
Pricing
Most RV GPS devices cost less than $150. For this price, you’ll get basic navigation features. If you want a more advanced unit with extras like voice-command capability, live traffic updates, and Bluetooth connectivity, you’ll spend between $200 and $700.
FAQs
You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q: What general issues should I expect when using an RV GPS?
A: One common problem you may encounter with high-performance GPS navigation systems is short battery life. Also, some GPS systems have a loose micro SD slot and a poor display. Check if the product has a warranty or purchase a GPS tablet from a reputable source to avoid such inconveniences.
Q: Is an RV GPS reliable at camping sites with overgrown trees?
A: It depends on how good the signal receiver is. Some GPS systems perform poorly in areas with large trees, tall buildings, or tunnels because they are blocked from getting a clear signal. However, if you have a portable GPS system, you could walk around before the battery dies and get to a higher or clear point where the GPS system can get a signal.
Q: Is there an RV setting for Google Maps?
A: If you want to use your phone as your RV GPS, you can download maps from the Google Maps app. This allows you to stash maps so you can access them on your smartphone even when you lose your cell connection. It’s a convenient workaround that doesn’t require physical maps or a separate device.
Q: Which RV GPS apps work with Android Auto?
A: Currently, Waze, Google Maps, and RV Trip Wizard are compatible with Android Auto. Camping Navi and Tom Tom Go are also compatible with Android Auto. For a complete listing, check out www.android.com/auto/.
Why Trust Us
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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