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Last Updated: Jan 3, 2024
Embarking on an RV adventure is a thrilling experience that offers countless memories and breathtaking sights. But having the best RV GPS at your disposal is crucial to make the most of your journey.
A dedicated RV GPS system ensures a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience by providing accurate navigation and routing for oversized vehicles.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the top RV GPS systems of 2024, discuss key features to consider when choosing one, and answer some common FAQs.
With our expert advice and recommendations, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and confidently hit the road.
In a rush? Check out our top 6 picks below:
6 Best RV GPS Navigation Systems Preview
| Product Name | Review | Amazon Price | Amazon Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Garmin RV 890 | Jump to Review | $399.99 Buy Now | 4 stars (24 ratings) |
Garmin RV 795 | Jump to Review | $459.99 Buy Now | 4.4 stars (217 ratings) |
TomTom Trucker 520 | Jump to Review | $254.56 Buy Now | 3.7 stars (521 ratings) |
Rand McNally TND 750 | Jump to Review | $259.99 Buy Now | 4 stars (290 ratings) |
Garmin dēzl OTR1000, | Jump to Review | $674.99 Buy Now | 4.5 stars (4116 ratings) |
Apple iPad 9th Gen (2021) | Jump to Review | $379.99 Buy Now | 4.8 stars (121,782 ratings) |
Why We’re Worth Your Trust
At Trakkit, our opinions and recommendations are formed by a team of dedicated RV enthusiasts who are committed to providing you with the most accurate information.
Our team members have collectively spent years on the road, traveling in various RV models and testing countless GPS systems.
We understand the unique challenges and requirements of RV navigation, whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior.
Our reviews and guides are meticulously researched, fact-checked, and founded on first-hand experiences.
Above all, we value honesty and transparency, providing unbiased advice to ensure you have the most enjoyable and safe RV adventures.
Trusting our expertise means you are relying on a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience that only true RV aficionados, like Trakkit’s Founder, can provide.
Top 6 RV GPS Navigation Systems of 2024
Choosing the right RV GPS is essential for a smooth and enjoyable road trip. To help you navigate the world of RV GPS navigation systems, we’ve compiled a list of the top 6 RV GPS systems of 2024, which include:
- Garmin RV 890 – Jump to Review
- Garmin RV 795 – Jump to Review
- TomTom Trucker 520 – Jump to Review
- Rand McNally TND 750 – Jump to Review
- Garmin dēzl OTR1000 – Jump to Review
- Apple iPad 9 (2021) – Jump to Review
Garmin RV 890 Review
Screen Size: 8 Inches
Touchscreen: Yes
Battery Life: 2 Hours
Live Traffic: With Garmin App
Weight: 2.53 lbs.
Dimensions: 7.87 x 4.92 x 0.79 inches
Details & First Impressions:
The Garmin RV 890 is an impressive GPS navigation system for RVers, offering convenient navigation with an 8-inch touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity to the Garmin app.
It provides tailored routing considering vehicle dimensions, weight, inclines, and bends.
With preloaded directories of RV parks and services from trusted sources, like Ultimate Public Campgrounds and US national parks, it ensures an enjoyable journey.
The Garmin RV 890 combines features, performance, and convenience with the added perk of voice control, making it an exceptional value.
Pros
- 8″ high-resolution touchscreen display
- Bluetooth connectivity to the Garmin app
- Voice control
- Preloaded directory of RV parks and services
- Custom routing for oversized vehicles
- Road warnings for steep grades, sharp curves, weight limits, and more
- Multiple mounting options
Cons
- Battery life is only 2 hours unplugged
Performance and Overall Experience:
The Garmin RV 890 GPS offers impressive performance with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice control.
It includes preloaded RV parks, custom routing for oversized vehicles, road warnings, and multiple mounting options.
With an intuitive interface and reliable navigation, the Garmin RV 890 ensures a stress-free journey.
Tested Features:
- Bluetooth connectivity to the Garmin app
- Live Traffic
- Voice control
- Preloaded directory of RV parks and services
- Custom routing for oversized vehicles
- Battery Life unplugged
Garmin RV 795 Review
Screen Size: 7 Inches
Touchscreen: Yes
Battery Life: 1 Hour
Live Traffic: With Garmin Drive App
Weight: 1.65 lbs
Dimensions: 8.11 x 6.38 x 4.84 inches
Details & First Impressions:
The Garmin RV 795 is a great navigator for RV enthusiasts. With a seven-inch touchscreen display and live traffic updates via the Garmin Drive App, it’s perfect for road trips.
The intuitive user interface and reliable navigation capabilities make it a positive first impression.
Preloaded campgrounds, RV parks, services, and TripAdvisor traveler ratings aided in our trip planning.
Pros
- Seven-inch touchscreen display
- Up to one hour of battery life
- Live traffic updates via the Garmin Drive App
- Ultra lightweight design
- Preloaded with campgrounds, parks, and TripAdvisor ratings
Cons
- Limited battery life while not plugged in.
Performance and Overall Experience:
The Garmin RV 795 performed excellently, providing accurate road warnings, custom RV routing, and Birdseye Direct Satellite Imagery. We appreciated its hands-free calling and live fuel prices. Additionally, the optional BC 50 Wireless Backup Camera added valuable safety features on the road.
There is also a Garmin RV 785 version with a built-in dash cam (4.4 stars).
Overall, our experience with the Garmin RV 795 navigator was very satisfying. It made our trip stress-free by offering important road information, recommended activities near destinations, and a preloaded directory of campgrounds, RV parks, and services with Tripadvisor traveler ratings to help us plan our stops.
Tested Features:
- Custom routing
- Road warnings
- Touchscreen display
- Live traffic/weather
- Hands-free calling
- Fuel prices
- Campground directory
TomTom Trucker 520 Review
Screen Size: 5 inches
Touchscreen: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Weight: 1.38 pounds
Dimensions: 5.58 x 3.58 x 0.8 inches
Details & First Impressions:
The TomTom Trucker 520 is an exceptional navigation tool for large trucks and RVs. It offers a 5-inch touchscreen display, real-time traffic updates, lane assist, and radar warnings.
Connect your smartphone via Bluetooth for hands-free calls.
The device includes updated USA and Canada maps for large vehicles and access to thousands of RV Points Of Interest (POIs). Use the MyDrive app to plan routes and check live traffic.
Overall, the TomTom Trucker 520 is a convenient and impressive navigation solution.
Pros
- Real-time traffic
- Lane assist
- Radar warning
- USA/Canada maps
- MyDrive app
Cons
- Sent us down roads with truck restrictions
Performance and Overall Experience:
The TomTom Trucker 520 provided a positive experience overall. It offered reliable navigation with detailed North American maps, lane assist, radar warning, and real-time traffic updates.
The accurate text-to-speech feature made it easier to focus on the road. Bluetooth connectivity allowed for hands-free calls and message reading.
Despite occasional issues with truck restrictions, reaching destinations was not a problem. The MyDrive app enabled route planning and live traffic updates.
In summary, this navigation system is highly recommended for large vehicle drivers.
Tested Features:
- Real-time Traffic
- Lane Assist
- Radar Warning
- Map Planning
- MyDrive App
- Text to Speech
- Bluetooth Connectivity
Rand McNally TND 750 Review
Screen Size: 7 Inches
Touchscreen: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Weight: 2.51 pounds
Dimensions: 7.3 x 0.8 x 4.5 inches
Details & First Impressions:
The Rand McNally TND 750 is a 7-inch GPS Truck Navigator for OTR truckers and RV owners. It features custom truck routing, Rand Navigation 2.0, and an easy-to-read display.
The device comes with a magnetic RV-ready mount and can be customized to fit your RV dimensions. It also provides real-time fuel prices, live traffic updates, and weather overlays.
With truck and RV-specific guidance, onscreen alerts, and hands-free calling, it prioritizes safety on the road.
The unit is user-friendly, featuring lane assistance and other intuitive features.
In summary, this compact device offers a comprehensive package for truckers and RV owners.
Pros
- Easy-to-read display
- Custom truck routing and Rand Navigation 2.0
- Magnetic RV-ready mount
- Enhanced truck and RV-specific guidance
- Onscreen alerts
- Hands-free calling capabilities
Cons
- No built-in dashcam is included with these RV GPS models
Performance and Overall Experience:
The Rand McNally TND 750 performs exceptionally well. Its quick GPS acquisition, accurate directions, and easy route changes make it a great device.
It handles navigation flawlessly and provides clear visual cues for lane changes and turns. With an intuitive interface and customizable features, it’s perfect for road conditions, traffic updates, and weather forecasts.
Lightweight and vehicle-friendly, it’s an excellent choice for truckers and RV owners seeking reliable navigation assistance.
Tested Features:
- Easy-to-read display
- Custom routing
- RV mount
- Guidance cues
- Onscreen alerts
- Hands-free calling
Garmin dēzl OTR1000 Review
Screen Size: 10.1 inches
Touchscreen: Yes
Live Traffic: Yes
Weight: 1.18 pounds
Dimensions: 0.83 x 9.65 x 6.06 inches
Details & First Impressions:
The Garmin dēzl OTR1000 is a user-friendly truck navigator with a 10″ touchscreen. It provides personalized truck and RV routing based on vehicle dimensions and weight, with timely alerts for crucial information.
It comes preloaded with a comprehensive Truck & RV Services directory.
Mounting options include a powered magnetic mount, screw-down mount, or 1″ ball adapter with an AMPS plate.
First impressions are positive due to the user-friendly interface and voice assistant technology.
Pros
- Extra-large 10″ touchscreen
- Custom truck and RV routing based on the size and weight of your vehicle
- Receive alerts for upcoming bridge heights, weight limits, sharp curves, steep grades, and other road hazards.
- Preloaded Truck & RV Services directory
- Several mounting options
Cons
- Expensive
Performance and Overall Experience:
The Garmin dēzl OTR1000 delivers impressive performance, with quick response to input and navigation instructions.
It offers detailed route advice considering vehicle size and weight, along with smooth voice assistant technology for hands-free operation.
The preloaded Truck & RV Services directory aids in finding nearby services.
Overall, this product provides accurate directions and a range of features, making it an ideal navigator for truckers and RVers.
Tested Features:
- Extra-large touchscreen
- Custom routing
- Alerts
- Preloaded directory
- Mounting options
- Voice assistant
Apple iPad 9th Gen (2021) Review
Battery Life: 9 Hours
Memory Storage: 64 GB
Display: 10.2 inch, 2160 x 1620
Data Connection: USB, Wi-Fi, BlueTooth, Cellular
Spoken Directions: Yes, with alerts
Preloaded MAPS: Yes, Global
Dimensions: 9.8 x 0.29 x 6.8 inches
Details & First Impressions:
The Apple iPad 9th-Generation (2021) is a powerful RV navigation aid. With a 10.2-inch display, 64GB storage, and 9 hours of battery life, it offers great features.
It has touch ID for easy access and the best front and rear dash cams for capturing every moment of your drive.
Mounting options include CD player mounts, cup holders, and suction cups.
It is compatible with Google Maps and supports split-screen viewing. Live weather radar overlay is available.
Overall, it’s a feature-packed tablet for RV navigation.
Pros
- 10.2-inch display
- 64GB of storage
- 9 hours of battery life
- USB/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Cellular data connection options
- Preloaded maps covering the globe
- Split screen function to view two apps at once
Cons
- Requires a data plan
The Apple iPad 9th-Gen delivers impressive performance, with quick and easy navigation on Google Maps.
The detailed preloaded maps and live weather radar overlay are especially useful for RVers.
The battery life lasts for 9 hours of full use, while quick USB charging ensures convenience.
Cellular connectivity enables seamless navigation and staying connected during RV trips.
Versatile mounting options make it a valuable addition to any RV traveler’s toolkit.
Tested Features:
- Battery Life
- Connectivity
- Google Maps
- Preloaded Maps
- Split Screen
- Weather Radar
How We Chose the Best RV GPS Systems on the Market
We select the best RV GPS systems by evaluating features, user reviews, screen quality, and overall performance. The best RV GPS units should offer the following:
- A seamless navigation experience for RVs and travel trailers
- Clear and detailed maps
- Real-time traffic updates
- Easy-to-use interfaces
Additionally, we have considered connectivity, battery life, and portability to ensure that our recommended RV GPS units cater to a wide range of needs and preferences.
By focusing on these essential aspects, we have curated a list of the best RV GPS units to ensure that you have a stress-free and enjoyable travel experience.
Key Features to Consider When Buying an RV GPS Unit
Several key features must be considered when choosing the perfect RV GPS navigator for your needs.
Consider these factors for selecting an RV GPS unit:
- Screen size: Larger size for better visibility and ease of use.
- Touchscreen functionality: Responsive for easy navigation.
- Resolution: High-resolution display for crisp and clear maps and text.
Recommended: Minimum 5-inch screen size and 1280 x 800 resolution or comparable specification. The touchscreen ensures smooth operation and quick access to essential features.
Connectivity Options:
Seamless connectivity options like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB are crucial for integrating your RV GPS with smartphones and other devices.
With wireless connectivity, you can receive real-time traffic updates, weather information, hands-free phone calls, and even wireless map updates for accurate navigation.
Updated Maps:
Updated maps are crucial for accurate navigation during RV adventures. With up-to-date maps, you can avoid unexpected road closures, detours, and other obstacles impacting your travel plans.
Garmin RV GPS units offer wireless updates, ensuring hassle-free map maintenance. Learn more about updating Garmin GPS units on Garmin’s site.
User Interface and Voice Commands:
A user-friendly interface and voice commands are essential for easy operation while driving. Modern GPS units have become more accessible, with intuitive controls and voice commands for convenient hands-free use.
Choose an RV GPS with a seamless interface, and voice commands for essential navigation information on the road.
Battery Life and Portability:
When choosing an RV GPS system, portability is crucial for easy transportation between vehicles or on foot. Ensure your device is always ready for action, no matter where the road takes you.
Dash Cam Add-On:
Some RV GPS units have built-in dash cams, allowing you to record your road trips and store the footage directly on the device. Dash cams are perfect for providing evidence during an accident, offering additional peace of mind while you’re out exploring.
Installation and Mounting Options for RV GPS Units
Multiple installation and mounting options are available for RV GPS units. Choose the most convenient and secure method for your needs, such as dashboard installation or windshield mounts. These options use suction cups for a secure attachment.
Selecting the appropriate method ensures your RV GPS remains securely in place during your journey, providing reliable navigation information.
Smartphone Integration and App Compatibility
Smartphone integration and app compatibility enhance the functionality and convenience of RV GPS systems.
Sync your GPS device with your smartphone to receive messages, sync with apps, and update maps.
Some RV GPS devices, like Garmin, seamlessly integrate with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Access navigation apps and functionalities directly from your RV GPS.
For more integration, use the Best RV GPS tracker to always know your RV’s location on your smartphone.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Support
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay seamlessly integrate with popular smartphone platforms, allowing access to favorite navigation apps and other functionalities from the RV GPS system.
With support for apps like Waze, Google Maps, and RV Trip Wizard, you’ll have accurate and up-to-date navigation information at your fingertips.
Choosing an RV GPS unit with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support enhances your travel experience. Enjoy stress-free journeys.
Final Thoughts
An RV GPS unit that caters to your needs can greatly enhance your travel experience, providing accurate navigation, real-time traffic updates, and RV-specific routing.
By carefully considering the key features we’ve discussed and reviewing our top recommendations for 2024, you will be able to make an informed decision and choose the best RV GPS navigator for your needs. With the right device, you’ll be ready to embark on unforgettable journeys and create lasting memories on the open road.
Want to upgrade your RV even more? Check out the best 12v battery for your RV.
Common RV GPS Unit FAQs
Can I use an RV GPS navigator on other vehicles?
You can use an RV GPS on other vehicles, like cars, trucks, and boats. However, keep in mind that an RV GPS’s features may not be optimized for these other vehicles. While you can still benefit from the navigation capabilities, some RV-specific features may be less useful in other cars. Check out the best car GPS navigation units for better results.
What’s the difference between an RV GPS and a regular GPS?
An RV GPS is designed to meet the unique needs of recreational vehicles, providing routing and navigation features tailored to your vehicle’s size and dimensions. This ensures optimized routes, avoiding weight restrictions, low bridges, and narrow lanes.
A regular GPS may offer less customization and accuracy for RV travel. Choose an RV GPS for a safer, more enjoyable travel experience tailored to your specific requirements.
Do you really need an RV GPS?
Investing in an RV GPS ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences. While an RV GPS can provide custom routing options that help you avoid sketchy roads, propane restrictions, and low clearances, some individuals may prefer to rely on smartphone apps or other alternatives.
However, value a dedicated RV GPS system’s convenience and peace of mind. It can be a worthwhile investment for your travel adventures.
Is there a Garmin RV app?
Yes, the free Garmin Drive app can be downloaded from Google Play or the App Store.
Better than Google Maps, enjoy freedom and control with wireless connectivity to your RV’s onboard network.
Does Apple Maps have RV routes?
No, Apple Maps does not have RV routes, as it does not account for the size of your vehicle when generating a route.