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There are plenty of road trip apps, but as any RVer knows, a road trip app and an RV app are very different things! And the worst time to figure that out is when you're in the RV on a road with a low clearance bridge and no place to turn around. That's a nightmare!
We have been using the CoPilot RV app ($39.99, one time cost via Google Play – iTunes) for nearly 3 years and It has saved us from a few low clearances and costly RV roof repairs in that time.
Using the CoPilot RV App
Don't wait until you're on the road to set up the CoPilot app! I made this mistake and used a LOT of data downloading maps.
The first thing you will do, after creating your CoPilot account, is download the map (or maps) you will need for your trip.
CoPilot RV app downloads maps so you're never lost without a signal or data
After loading the map it is easy to set a destination, peruse route options, and get an idea of driving times.
The Features We Liked in This RV App
CoPilot RV app shows points of interest like truck stops, campgrounds, restaurants, and RV services
We have found quite a bit to like as we've used this app.
I thought it was really nice that you could use the app beyond the RV- you can change your mode of transportation to car, motorcycle, bicycle, or even walking- making this a great app for exploring.
The Points of Interest (POIs) included in the app were quite helpful- especially when looking for a place to fuel up, stop for a break, or if you just want to explore a bit.
My husband really liked that the unit gave plenty of notice before an exit to make lane changes – as well as a notification that appeared at the top to let you know which lane you should be in.
I loved that the downloaded map kept my data from ‘pinging' – saving both my battery and my precious gigabytes.
The Feature We Wish This App Had
Though the app does list RV service centers, it does not list places where you can dump your tanks or fill your fresh water. That information would be especially handy. (So I submitted that request via the ‘Submit a Map Improvement' link in MyCoPilot settings.)
Planning a Trip With CoPilot RV App
Using the CoPilot RV app for trip planning is easy – and offers both distance and time options.
Beginning a trip is easy with the big, blue ‘New Destination' button. From there input the starting point as well as destinations.
Waypoints can easily be added, and the best route easily chosen.
I really like that you can zoom in and out on the map to add stops, check weather, or even avoid a specific road. You can even run a route demo or view a turn by turn list or map. And when you're done the trip can be saved for future use. Handy!
Final Thoughts on the CoPilot RV App
Though I still haven't utilized all the features in this app, it has proven itself to be a roof-saver and worth the cost.
Though the $39.99 cost may give some pause, it's helpful to remember that it is a one-time fee; unlike GPS units, you won't have to pay to upgrade.
[…] Unlike a regular GPS that can lose service, the CoPilot RV app stores all your maps on your phone so you have access to your directions at all times. This app calculates your route from Point A to Point B based on your vehicle size and class to make navigation a breeze. Read our review of this app […]