Best RV GPS for the Ultimate Traveling Experience

The Garmin Nuvi 2757LM 7-Inch makes an impact on Lifetime Garmin RV traffic and Garmin RV map updates like none other. It has a TFT touchscreen on a Garmin RV 7-inch screen. With lifetime updates that include Garmin RV maps from all corners of the world including the United States, Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, this GPS is a step ahead of GPS units. It has Garmin RV voice commands, so you do not have to lift a finger to get accurate Garmin RV navigational access.

The Garmin RV 760LMT Portable GPS Navigator is the editors’ choice. If you want gps units which are customizable based on your RV’s size, go for this one. It has specialized RV routing features including height restrictions, alerts for road narrows, sharp curves, lateral wind assists, and tree over-hands. The Garmin RV voice-activated feature makes all this easy and quick. And this Garmin RV device is also compatible with other backup Garmin RV devices for keeping your travel history handy wherever you go.

The Spy Tec STI GL300 Mini Portable is the kind of device you should have bought months ago. It takes two steps forward with its Google Maps feature. It gives real-time updates on the tracker, is Bluetooth compatible, and works on any app including a standard internet browser. A bit different than other picks, the Spy Tech gets the job done. Other features include a built-in accelerometer, strong battery life, and geofencing restrictions.

A Little Background

In the past, when our grandparents used to go on vacation, they studied and took along a road map. Navigation problems were caused by the human element who were unfamiliar with reading road maps or outdated maps which weren’t relevant any longer. Many frustration was caused by route changes and outdated systems or GPS units. A GPS navigator like Garmin now eliminates those frustrations and also other traffic-related frustrations like providing a means to be updated with live traffic reports to avoid congested areas, toll roads, gravel roads and many more.

Everybody loves an RV, be it parents or children. Driving up the coast or heading to a park miles away from your hometown can be an exciting time for a family or a group of friends. But without GPS, you waste time getting lost and asking for directions. So, don’t you think the best RV GPS could make a good mother’s day or father’s day gift? Or if you’re looking to spend some quality time with your children, won’t a secure RV GPS keep you satisfied so you can explore the best of the best destinations without jeopardizing your children’s health? You have some thinking to do, at this point!

While there are many types of GPS that you can use in your RV, the best ones aren’t that easily found. GPS stands for Global Positioning System which means that you’re never getting lost for as long as you have a connection. Most of you are more than familiar with how smart technology is taking over everyday lives making it easier on us to travel without getting lost or asking for directions. It makes us for time-efficient and cars more fuel-efficient. So, if cars can have their own smartphone-compatible or telematic GPS, why can’t RVs?

There are 5 main types of GPS that you can choose from: a smartphone-compatible GPS app, in-car infotainment factory GPS, Android or Apple GPS CarPlay, telematics systems, or portable GPS. Each system has its own way of working and its own advantageous based on what you’d like to use.

GPS was invented by the United States are a national resource. It was used for all kinds of purposes including military, for satellite launches, federal departments, and for Homeland security, in agriculture, disaster relief or emergency services, robotics, and for surveying. Recent studies have also proven the use and effect of Global Positioning Systems for global change. (1)

This standard positioning service was then upgraded to smartphones for citizens to help them navigate to new places without getting lost. The accuracy and efficiency of GPS navigation soon took over most devices as the integral and critical part of technological modernization. So, how does GPS work?

A GPS transmits data back and forth to its GPS satellite which determines its exact position geographically and from real-time. This is how GPS devices can locate a particular location in the most precise and quickest manner. The measures used to locate an accurate position are the latitude, longitude, and relative height. This is in reference to the Earth’s coordinates which helps supports the vehicle guidance system, for which an RV GPS is made. This is how you also get a moving map display which records and monitors and locates wherever you move in real-time. (2)

A Recreational Vehicle, or an RV, is used for temporary accommodation as well as transportation. Some examples of RVs include a motorhome, caravans, pop-up campers, truck campers, camper-vans, etc. If you want something specifically for trucks and not RVs, go for the WorldNav Truck GPS models. A standard RV comes with a kitchen, bathroom, and one or two sleeping facilities. You can also install appliances such as a portable heater, air conditioning system, satellite receptors, and water heating systems.

For example, most people use RVs for travelling to better-preferred climates or holiday locations. Relying on paper maps can be ineffective for long-term use as paper maps can get too confusing to track down. Especially for when you’re trying to track down your own location while you’re on the road.

Gone are the days of getting lost or not finding your intended location. So, while RVs are used for transportation for much longer distances than cars, buying an RV GPS is essential, right?

How We Picked

Here’s what we looked for when choosing the best RV GPS for our readers:

GPS Mount

You need a trustworthy and durable GPS mount so you do not have to upgrade to a new one in a matter of months. Based on the GPS you buy, a GPS navigator mount is essential. The mounting hardware either consists of a magnet or a rigid arm to attach to an external unit. Such mounts are easy to install, durable, and cheap to even consider buying. Generally, an RV GPS comes with a cable wire, designed to provide the comfort to plug into the GPS navigator mount with a snap-in and snap-out functionality.

Note: Most mounting hardware is backed by local laws for restrictions, so make sure you check your local laws for mounting placements and other limitations on installation before use.

Screen Size

By habit, larger screen size is more convenient than a small one. This calls for better safety and attention when travelling on the road. With a smaller screen size, you have look at the screen maybe 2-3 seconds longer than you would at large screen size. So, which do you think is more convenient for you. For example, for real-time map updates, when you’re driving an RV alone, you need a large screen for quick location tracking. If you have someone with you sitting in the passenger seat, the size of the screen doesn’t matter because that person is doing all the location tracking for you.

RV travel is difficult unless you have something as handy as a big-screen RV built-in GPS by your side. So, the screen size is essential. You get the best portable RV GPS system with screen sizes ranging from 3.5 to 7 inches. Most come with touchscreen features that allow you to quickly track the route you’re on and how far you have left to go.

One downside to a large screen is the amount of dashboard space they take up. They may obstruct the view of the road, especially when you’re mounting it right in the centre of the dashboard. The most comfortable screen size for consumers is somewhere between 4 to 5 inches. It makes location tracking and navigation easy to use, accessible, and intuitive for users. That way, the windshield is clearly visible for the driver.

Traffic Tracking

Traffic tracking is an essential feature of a GPS. It helps you make most of your time and vehicle’s fuel by staying up to date about the areas where you will get the least and most traffic. This helps especially when you happen to stick to a common commute or routine when travelling. A live traffic tracking feature uses real-time and locating tracking to give you accurate traffic updates. In case there’s an accident, road closure, or a speed trap, you’ll know of it immediately with the help of this feature. The best technology for accurate real-time tracking is phone apps. Other types of technology such as portable GPS or pre-infotainment systems with built-in GPS aren’t as accurate at traffic tracking as phone apps. For the latter technologies, you might have to pay an additional cost to get real-time traffic reports.

Additional features for traffic tracking, that most modern GPS units offer, are detour request and lane assistance. Detour request is when you want to find an alternative route due to traffic or an accident. You can manually select or let the device select a better route for you which is faster. Lane assistance informs you of where you need to go next on your route. The general left and right turn that you might miss on a highway can easily be taken care of with lane and roadside assistance. So, you never have to re-route after missing an upcoming right-turn again!

Battery Life

Does your RV GPS unit have a long battery life? Is it battery-operated or do you need to connect it to the power backup of your vehicle for consistent tracking? All these questions are important for proper tracking and navigational assist. Map updates are not a thing to take likely, especially when you’re travelling to new locations. Hence, paying an additional cost for longer battery life is essential and could probably save your life. We would recommend a wired RV GPS device for continuous real-time performance. Battery-operated devices usually go for as long as 2 hours until you need to charge the batteries up again.

Our Best Pick

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Garmin is known for its GPS accessories and lately, it has become even more popular for its Nuvi 2757LM 7-Inch Portable Vehicle GPS. This one has Lifetime Maps which means you get map updates around the clock! With Real directions coupled with Real Voice guidance, this best RV GPS is available for all. It offers detailed visual quality that beats GPS navigator devices that sell for more than double its price. If you want multiple Garmin RV route updates, just sit back and switch to its Garmin RV Auto Sort mode which organizes all routes for you to give you the fastest and most comfortable route. The Active Lane guidance feature is good for intelligent mapping, also, you’re always heading in the right direction responsibly. We especially liked the Garmin photoReal and photoBird’s Eye feature. This route system feature gives you a good Bird’s eye view of your map, which is a helpful one when you’re new to the area.

The Garmin excels at GPS technology and with good reason. The 7-inch TFT touchscreen system provides a means of accessibility easy. So does the manual-orientation and white backlight system display. And if you think that’s it- Garmin surprises you with Real Voice guidance. If you ask us, the Garmin provides a means for most people driving an RV – be it for the first time!

Our Best Step-Up Pick

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The way the Garmin RV 760LMT works is hard to beat for any other Portable GPS Navigator. It has some major improvements in design and performance such as the customized RV Routing. With voice-activated technology, this best RV GPS surpasses every limit. It responds to your voice, gives you command for intelligent routing, and comes with a touchscreen interface so you never have to take your hands off the wheel again. Upgraded with free lifetime map updates and traffic tracking, the Garmin has a wide directory for planning as well as sharing. All this through a 7-inch display makes it one of the most productive models on the market.

It won’t be difficult to get used to this GPS device’s interface and software as it’s intuitive and simple. It also offers miscellany data such as nearby and efficient fuel stops. In case of an accident nearby, it re-routes you immediately around every accident or hold-up with difficulty. Overall, Garmin’s size is comfortable, in spite of being a 7-inch screen. Its mounting hardware fits all kinds of mounting cups, including those that are designed to hold 4-inch screens. Have you ever used a model that asks you for your RV’s dimensions for better map tracking and routing? This one does! Navigating your RV with this Garmin RV GPS by keeping your eyes on the road and the nose pointing to your route has never been so easy. This is one of the best ways to travel.

Our Best Budget Pick

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The Spy Tec STI GL300 Mini Portable is a seriously good RV GPS tracker for most people. It isn’t a pricey system, works with everything and on everyone, and lasts for the longest time possible. We love the Spy Tec for its accuracy and effectiveness. It is a real-time tracking system device which allows you to track down people and objects that are dear to you also especially for children, this device can make sure they’re safe while heading out with friends or coming back home from school. While children’s books dictate the world as a happy place, you still need cutting-edge technology system which keeps you up-to-date on everyone.

This portable GPS navigator system takes into account a simple geofencing technology. The geofencing technology shows you geographic locations and boundaries of your choosing. Plus, with a longer-lasting battery life which supports the device’s built-in accelerometer, the Spy Tec system is one step ahead of the game! You can use this tracking system device from any modern browser, which includes iOS Android. The Spy Tec system is one for how accurately solid a tracking device can be. Plus, the model will allow you to set boundaries or location limits. It has a strong battery, intuitive functionality, and inexpensive design. All important features set in one makes the Spy Tec GL300 Mini system the best one for RV GPS extended use.

Our Best GPS for Camping

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The Magellan RoadMate RV9145-LM system is a good one for a motorhome. You can feed in the system all the information regarding your RV and it keeps you off roads that aren’t safe for you. This is especially helpful for when you’re approaching RV parks. The Magellan RoadMate RV GPS and Good Sam have come together to give you this striking and durable product. It’s the best Sam’s Club RV GPS system for a long trip to unknown places. So, RVers can stay rest assured about their route ahead because the campground rating and services of this device are nothing short of reliable. The customized route profile based on your RV makes travelling to new places much more realistic, also with Highway Lane Assist, you can stay on the correct lane when approaching route exits.

If you’ve driven an RV or a trailer before, especially those extremely bulky ones, you know missing an exit on a highway is likelier than you think. So, with the Magellan offering voice commands and multi-destination routing, you don’t have to anticipate a delay in arrival ever again! Other important features include an A/V input, Auto Night Mode, premium map updates, and One-Touch menu. Updating the software takes no hassle at all. You can pair this device to most other systems and it works perfectly.

An alternative is the Garmin RV 770 na lmts-s which has advanced navigation for camping enthusiasts. The Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s has a large, easy-to-view GPS navigator with a 6.95” edge-to-edge touchscreen display. Along with route warnings, the Garmin RV 770 na lmts-s can be customised by entering the dimensions of the vehicle with trailer width, height, length and weight specifications to get the most efficient route suggestions. One of the best features of the Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s, is the access to a list of 20,000 sites in the U.S. and Canada, including national and state parks and privately-owned campgrounds. The Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s also include a list of 14,000 RV-specific service locations which including towing, tire shops, truck stops and repairs

The smartphone link app connects the Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s to live traffic updates amongst others, including the ability of family and friends to track your trip progress. While travelling, you can keep your hands on the steering wheel while using your Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s for sending and receiving live telephone calls and texts. While on the navigation screen, the Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s also elevation information which can be expanded in the elevation profile. On route, crucial driver alerts from the Garmin RV 770 na lmt-s will warn about sharp turns ahead or nearby schools. TripAdvisor and Foursquare teamed up to send points of interest as well as their ratings, straight to your RV 770 na lmt-s to not ensure a safe trip, but an enjoyable one too.

Our Best GPS for RV Travel

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With Lifetime updates on both maps and traffic, the TomTom Go 620 is a class act. It claims to be smarter, quicker, and a better choice for a GPS device. And we think it’s right! With a solid 6-inch screen size, it supports cloud updates as well as hands-free calling. With it you get a magnetic mount, a car charger, a USB cable, and a simple user guide for further assistance on how to make the most of this best RV GPS. You can connect it to the wi-fi connection and your smartphone for hands-free calling, text message updates, and traffic tracking. The voice commands keep you comfy and most important of all – safe because you don’t need your fingers to navigate through the device.

TomTom Go 620 is one of the best devices for RVing and RV parks. If you’re going on a long trip, having this by your side will keep you safe and well-aware of the road ahead of you. Most of all, the screen is so big and the visuals so striking, that even if you wear noise-cancelling headphones, you will stay understand where you need to go. We hope you appreciate this pick for full-time RVing as much as we do.

Our Best High-Definition GPS

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The RV GPS, Garmin Dezl 770LMTHD is higher up on the market than others. It has a 7-inch glass display and also lifetime map updates and an HD digital traffic tracking system. Both these features have a secure “lifetime” tag on them which means you can use it for as long as you want. The best feature of the Garmin is the Truck and Trailer Services Directory which lets you get in touch with high-rated and professional truckers also on the road. Based on the accurate information of your trailer, you get customized routing features for a safe journey. It notifies you about all the sharp turns, road narrows, road grades, weigh stations, stateliness, etc. when you’re on the road.

We think the navigation and re-routing features of this best RV GPS system are on point! Nothing beats down a GPS device that warns you about tough roads ahead including possible accident-prone areas, ground restrictions, speeding limits, and high wind areas. It is one of the smartest GPS devices we’ve booked yet. With effective voice commands, which also we hear is better than all of Garmin’s models. You do not have to lift a single finger for route directions. The glass display remains striking and visual even under direct sunlight. So, no shade and no bleached-out visuals on a sunny day.

Our Best GPS for Smaller RVs

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The Garmin Nuvi 2639LMT might not be better than the Garmin Dezl 770, but it’s definitely good for in-dash navigation for a small travel trailer. It comes with 6-inch screen size and a dual-orientation display. All you have to do is pinch the screen for a more zoomed-in display of the Garmin RV maps and you’re done! It is backed by Garmin Real Directions feature which updates you on all real-time traffic and landmarks for better routing and re-routing. Now, you can find restaurants, gas stations, and other important landmarks in no time. This RV GPS navigates the most complex roads like it’s no big deal. And with both horizontal and vertical screen compatibility, you can see where you are without taking your eyes off the road!

Based on our research, the Garmin Nuvi works well for RV trips that are longer than 15 days. It is big enough for striking map directions and small enough to not get in the way. The perfect RV GPS device for trailers and motorhomes. Lastly, the slight drawback to this RV device would be the reflective screen which can get frustrating to handle. But once you find the perfect angle, viewing all your much-needed information on the RV GPS screen is a piece of cake!

Our Best Pick for Quick Navigation

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As for a more accurate RV pick, the Magellan RoadMate 5230T-LM makes the final cut. This one comes with a 5-inch screen size with lifetime traffic alerts, also with map updates. This one is the best road guide you need for quick street names, landmarks, and other route information. It also provides parking information for garages, parks, and other grounds. This also includes the operating hours of certain RV parks and help with proper directions to their entrances and exits. We like the Magellan RoadMate for what it is. It’s quick, efficient, and also strong. With no additional charges, it also gives you Traffic Camera alerts that are as sharp as the visuals of mirrorless RV cameras. Now isn’t that something you’d want for your RV?

Our Best Battery-Operated GPS

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The TomTom VIA 1515M is powered by a lithium-ion battery. This one has a 5-inch screen size with touchscreen features that make the device both intuitive and also effective. It also features an integrated mount which attaches itself to your windscreen. You can also attach it to your dashboard for the best navigational support at your fingertips. The TomTom is a reliable and realistic RV GPS device for the money. You can use it for both short and long RV trips across the country. Plus, understanding the RV interface and software updates takes less than 10 minutes. That is if you know how well RV GPS devices work. Overall, the sound control and menu control on this device is reliable and also ideal for RVers. All you have to do is a press a button and whatever you need pops up!

An alternative from Rand McNally is their Rand McNally GPS for RV travelling. The Rand McNally RV GPS OverDryve 7 model comes with a built-in dashcam, Bluetooth and free lifetime maps. The Rand McNally GPS RV is very high in demand and Rand McNally reported that although they have reduced stock available in many areas at the moment, that they will improve selection availability soon. Rand McNally hasn’t got a wide variety of products, but Rand McNally product features don’t shy away from competitors. Rand McNally products are portable and can be used with any vehicle. Eleven RV and Camper type settings are preloaded as well as car and custom settings. Rand McNally believes that “With millions of RV-friendly locations and amenities and exclusive trip content from Rand McNally editors, RVND 7 is built for your adventure”.

Our Best GPS with Bluetooth Connection

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The TomTom VIA 1535TM is one of the best steps ahead from our previous pick. This one has a resistive screen, a 5-inch Bluetooth-connected RV interface also with lifetime traffic and map updates. You can pair this device with your RV’s in-ceiling speakers or a wireless multi-room RV audio system for better performance and accurate RV navigational control. The split-screen junction view is well-supported by RV voice navigation also. The battery charge life on this device is also shorter than the others, which is only 3 hours until it needs to be charged again. This makes its use limited, but not at all inefficient. Once you pair this with any Bluetooth device, including smartphones, it features help with hands-free calling, roadside assistance, intelligent re-routing, and also real-time travel data. On the plus side, it has a free two-day shipping option for those who also cannot wait!

The Competition

While most people look for the editors’ choice picks on the market, we’ve come to the conclusion that there’s no single best pick for everyone. There are many reasons why you’d need one of the best GPS units for your RV. Plus, modern versions of GPS navigation come with extra features that you’d not wait any longer to use. Features such as the Blu-Ray DVD compatibility, iPad app or iPhone support, multi-room audio support, a GPS tracking feature for making sure your children aren’t in danger wherever they go, and social media help to share apps for Twitter Instagram Facebook, etc.

While you get to choose the kind of features you want in a GPS device, you need faster shipping help too. That said, such important features need expert consideration. Which is why you need to rely on us to help you find what’s best for your RV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a GPS device?

A GPS device comes in durable hardware backed by intuitive software that can also be stored and accessed easily. Companies are coming up with newer and newer ways to run different hardware and software to make performance accurate. However, a basic RV GPS unit offers location information along with real-time tracking. This can be used for personal reasons and also for vehicles such as a trailer, motorhome, or an RV.

Here are the following reasons why you need an RV GPS immediately:

Live tracking: Live tracking is when you can view a person or a vehicle connected to the GPS tracking device. You can see the location, movement, and real-time tracking signalling from a particular GPS tracker with the help of GPS technology.

You get location tracking notification: This is important for people who commute a lot. RV location tracking is also commonly referred to as RV traffic tracking as it lets you know the exact time estimation to and from a particular route location. You can also change locations manually based on where you are and also where you want to go. Other important notifications can also be road accidents, maintenance, etc. It also offers Safe Zone alerts for when you’re travelling through dense forest regions for an RV road trip.

You can also log into your travel history: The best part about using the best RV GPS is that you not only get lifetime RV mapping but memory RV mapping. Which means the GPS device saves your RV routes without you manually having to save it. It also consists of your entire RV travel history from where you’ve been to where you’ve reached. This also helps you to stay up-to-date on essential RV addresses and stay ahead of schedule even when you’re moving on a new travel route. With in-app purchases, you can also upload your RV travel history to the cloud and have it saved forever!

Smart destination routes: Bored of the same RV route you take to a National Forest? If you want to check for alternate RV routes, an RV GPS device lets you do that. It is smart enough to detect the fastest and safest RV route to anywhere with a click of a button. If you have built-in wi-fi, it also helps you re-route if you’re confused or unsure about the course you’re currently on.

Voice commands: Some devices also offer simple and straightforward voice commands so you understand things better. Don’t you think it’s better to be told when to take a right turn or a U-turn rather than you checking the RV GPS screen every few seconds? This feature also helps you to pay attention to the road and not on anything else, which is kind of the point of buying an RV GPS. You don’t need to keep fumbling over a paper route! Voice-activated navigation is smart, efficient, and indeed also a life-saver! (3)

Wrapping it Up

You need an upgraded with one of the best RV GPS units for your RV immediately if you’ve been using the old-school map routes. This isn’t an assumption. Merely a knowledgeable fact which is easily supported by millions of consumers whose lives improved from using any navigational advice. Over the years, navigational systems turned from a luxury to a necessity. The type of system people gets used to ultimately influence their buying decisions when faced with buying new vehicles.

The Garmin Nuvi 2757LM 7-Inch is the one you need for all your RV digital traffic and map updates. The essential features that an RV GPS needs for better navigational support, the RV Garmin offers. It also raises the bar for how succinctly and efficiently a GPS navigator should perform.

Whichever unit suits your needs, know that you aren’t just selecting a product. You’re selecting a partner. The brand usually becomes associated with your lifestyle as many products have accessories which are integrated with your purchased unit, like fitness watches and video equipment. Endurance event sponsors are a good testament to that.