5+ Best RV GPS in 2023: Honest Review and Buying Guide

Finding Best GPS for RV? One of the greatest causes of stress between the lovely couples is none other than navigation that travels or lives full time in an RV. Those who have traveled a distance with their partners in an RV know what might be the consequences if the slightest mistake occurs. With the advancement of technology, nowadays everybody loves to travel in an RV. 

As we all know how problematic it was in previous days to use the old-fashioned atlas to pick up the routes and to decide on potential campgrounds. Though that atlas has a special bonding for the mariners. However, nowadays those seem to be obsolete.

Just imagine what might happen if the atlas shows the wrong direction! What would happen if you think the directions are wrong? All these problems are used to create chaos. However, nowadays nothing like this happens. It might be a good decision to keep them at last with you for your emergency navigation purposes.

However, most high-tech RVers these days rely on GPS units that make navigation much easier. Nowadays everybody relies on the GPS unit so that they take out the navigation stress during the time of navigation. RV GPS units can easily mount on the dashboards and from there the driver can view the display without taking their eyes off the road. 

When the drivers do their job effectively, they provide advanced notice when a turn is coming up, alert you to oncoming traffic as a result of an accident, and provide real-time information on low-hanging bridges or other obstacles that RVs should avoid. However, one should keep in mind that all GPS models which are made for RV navigation rely upon catchy marketing copy on the packaging.

So the best thing is that you need to figure out the best GPS system that is specifically designed for RVers. However, you don’t have to worry much as the GPS units are of high quality. If you are looking to get knowledge about the best GPS RV units then follow this article. We are going to perform the 6 best RV GPS units. Moreover, in this article, you will also get to know about the buying guide. The buying guide will help you to divide the factors to be looked upon before purchasing it. 

Top Pick Up For The Best RV GPS Choices 2022

Out of all those we came across these 6 best RV GPS with you. We bet that you will not regret choosing these products.

1. Best Overall: Garmin RV 785 GPS Navigator with Built-in Dash Cam
2. Best Budget: Garmin RV 770 Advanced Navigation for RVs and Travel Trailers
3. Best For Roadside Assistance: TomTom VIA 1535TM Bluetooth GPS Navigator with Voice Recognition
4. Best For Obstacle Avoidance: Garmin dezlCam 785 LMT-S with Built-in Dash Cam
5. Largest Display: Magellan RV9365T-LMB RoadMate RV GPS Navigator
6. Best Entertainment Value: Rand McNally OverDryve 7 High-Clarity RV GPS Navigator

We have selected 6 of the best RV GPS products in front of you. Now we will review each product one by one. Honestly, Magellan, TomTom, and Garmin are the three most trusted names in GPS navigation. It doesn’t matter through which specific roads we are traveling through. So, without wasting any more time, we are going to review the products as soon as possible. 

1. Garmin RV 785 GPS Navigator with Built-in Dash Cam

 If you are having trouble with your old RV GPS unit then choosing the Garmin RV 785 GPS Navigator with Built-in Dash Cam will be the best option for you. We are sure that you will love to have this product instead of relying on the old models which have lots of disadvantages. 

FeaturesThe best part of Garmin RV 785 is that it offers you a huge host of features. Moreover, it allows you to customize the routes as per your desire. With the help of this unique feature, one can easily customize the route and you can also avoid low bridges along with sharp curves and steep inclines. 

The importance of this feature is that when you are operating an RV, it is just not made for every single road out there. The stunning thing is that it has a seven-inch screen size and it is hard for the customers to see the upcoming turns on the display from the captain’s seat of the RV. It has a high-resolution touch screen. So it permits the customers to navigate between screen options. You can also make the changes to the route without squinting at a tiny display.

2. Garmin RV 770 Advanced Navigation for RVs and Travel Trailers

Nowadays, almost every person desires to have an RV GPS unit, especially those who are travel freaks. However, we need to keep several things in our mind while purchasing the RV unit.

So, if you are looking for a budget-friendly RV GPS unit, then Garmin RV 770 Advanced Navigation for RVs and Travel Trailers would be the perfect choice for you.

Don’t skip the exciting features of this product. Features The exciting thing is that the model is low-priced. Despite its low price, the model offers several features which are hard to believe at this price. It offers the customers to customize the route to avoid those roads which are the easiest to navigate in a large rig. 

Many customers face trouble while dealing with GPS units that are tough to operate smoothly. The interface was not only intuitive and user-friendly. That is why everyone likes the GPS to be connected with the smartphone so that it can access information via an interface that the customers are more comfortable using. 

The unit’s Smartphone link app allows you to view live traffic updates, basic weather reports, and other useful travel information. When you’re searching for the next great campground to park your rig for a few days, sometimes it’s helpful to call ahead and speak to someone on the ground there. 

It is known to all how everybody used to book all the campgrounds before everything became so seamless on the internet. However, the valuable thing is talking to a real person about the sites and nearby attractions.

That is why the lovable fact is that the GPS is compatible with Bluetooth calls and offers other hand-free features. It also includes voice-activated navigation. One of the attractive features which generally the friends or other persons might like is the GPS and its Live track features. 

These features of this model might excite you. Moreover, sharing the live location might seem to be like the “Find Your Friends ” feature on the iPhone. It is only for safety’s sake and also to inspire me to join the next venture without any trouble. 

3. TomTom VIA 1535TM Bluetooth GPS Navigator with Voice Recognition

An unforeseen incident can occur at any time depending on how much preparation we take. The incidents can occur under any circumstances. Sometimes, the incident can occur in our ideal locations.

If you’re looking for a GPS unit that will have your back when things don’t quite go right, that GPS is the TomTom VIA 1535TM Bluetooth GPS Navigator with Voice Recognition. FeaturesThe best part of this model is that it comes with the mounting ability so that it can stick to the inside of your windshield or adhere right to the dashboard in front of the captain’s chair.

You need to be sure whether the model is obstructing the view of the road or not. There are pre-installed maps in the units and those require updates. Some users have reported the requirement of an additional SD card for downloading and utilizing the model effectively. 

However, if you are deciding to purchase this GPS model then the IQ route feature of this GPS means that the customer can get the most accurate possible calculations when they arrive at the next destination. As someone who hates feeling like they kept others waiting, the customer might think this is a really important feature for being able to relay an accurate ETA to anyone who is meeting you at your next stop. 

The best part of this GPS model is that it has a split-screen function. This sharp feature will help you to look ahead of your plan and at the same time, you can keep your eye on the current locations.

4. Garmin dezlCam 785 LMT-S with Built-in Dash Cam

The travel freak is always looking for the right opportunity to purchase the best GPS unit. Several users have several requirements.

If you are among those users who are looking for a GPS unit that can help the user avoid obstacles for a seamless travel experience then choosing the Garmin dezlCam 785 LMT-S with Built-in Dash Cam will be perfect for you.

It has all the exciting features which will help you to purchase this model. FeaturesOther GPS units can leave you having to backtrack for hours because they didn’t know there was a low bridge on the rural road you’re taking. The specialty of this model is that it provides alerts so that you can avoid obstacles and save time. 

For instance, if you are driving an RV for long hours, then competence can sometimes sets in. It is extremely dangerous because the vehicle may be 30-40 feet long. That is why many smart vehicles today alert the user when any user can approach another vehicle too quickly or move out of the lane. 

So, if the GPS can be integrated with the RV then it will start to warn you if you are drifting out of the lane. Moreover, it will also detect if the user is approaching a vehicle or object in front of the RV very fast. 

The specialty of this GPS unit is that it can be installed in the RV and the user doesn’t have to worry about removing or updating maps. The stunning thing is that it is a wifi connected RV unit. So, one can easily download all the updates wirelessly without any requirement of plugging the unit into the computer.

It has the special feature of Bluetooth connectivity. So, the user can also free handphone calls with the help of the GPS. Another noteworthy feature is that it includes essential live services. This feature helps RV travel much smoother. It also includes weather updates and traffic alerts. 

5. Magellan RV9365T-LMB RoadMate RV GPS Navigator

Generally, people love to get all types of features in one RV GPS unit. However, in some cases, the prices are higher. On the other hand, the prices are low but there are no features to satisfy the customer’s needs.

But in the case of Magellan RV9365T-LMB RoadMate RV GPS Navigator, you will get a full package. So, let’s look at the special features of this model. FeaturesThe stunning feature of Magellan is that it has a great screen. It has a large display. If you are feeling confused about the requirement of the urgent direction, then this model will serve your purpose. 

Another best thing about this model is that it permits the user in your RVs exact dimension so that whatever route you select will not create any obstacles. It would not create any difficulties in navigating the large vehicle. 

The RV-specific features of this GPS unit include gas station locations sorted by whether they offer diesel or standard gas, the Good Sam Travel Guide and Campground Directory, a database of Sani-dump locations, and the ability to save location information. It means longitude and latitude. This model can also be synced with your smartphone with Bluetooth technology.

This feature will help you to receive and make freehand calls whenever you want. However, one of the things which bother me is the timing of the GPS unit. Some will tell you the next step when it is already too late. This feature will leave the user unnecessary detours or necessitates a U-turn altogether. Another exciting feature of this unit is that it can see the next two turns that are approaching your route. It can also be said it gives the user the ability to plan for the next step. 

6. Rand McNally OverDryve 7 High-Clarity RV GPS Navigator

We have kept Rand McNally OverDryve 7 High-Clarity RV GPS Navigator in the sixth position. But this doesn’t mean that this product is less important than the others.

It has all the attractive features which users generally need in any RV GPS Navigator. There is no better model than this one.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly product with all the important features then go for this one. FeaturesThe best part of this RV navigator is its GPS unit. It allows one to download the favorite apps, it might be the music channel or the movie apps. Simply, one can rock on or stay connected with the world with the help of this unique feature. Another important thing is that you can get well connected with social media with the help of the GPS unit.

The network is amazing and you can get uninterrupted services. This feature is quite similar to the others. It also has a seven-inch screen size. This feature will help the user not to avert their eyes from the road too long while conforming to exit or U-turn. This model has a voice-activated navigation feature.

So, if you wish then you can directly speak to the unit and give directions to it. Isn’t it amazing? The built-in microphone also makes it easy to place a phone call as you’re pulling up to your destination to let your friends or grandkids know you’ve arrived. If you face any unfortunate accident then the first thing which you need to do is to confirm your story.

The specialty is that this GPS comes with a built-in dashcam and which will record the entire footage. This is also a great feature for compiling a few cool time-lapse videos of your RV journeys. The integrated WiFi-enabled features of this GPS also allow you to check regional weather, see which upcoming station offers the best gas prices, and see live traffic to plan detours or route diversions. 

There are so many RV GPS Navigators available on the market. Which one is best for you? You need to know certain things which will help you. Now, you will not purchase the RV GPS navigator again and again. Generally, we tend to serve our purpose for a lifetime. It is the right time for you to understand the GPS unit so that you can make the best decision. Here, we are going to share the buying guide with you. Follow it. 

Buying Guide For The Best RV GPS Navigator

GPS Types

As you probably know, there are several types of GPS available in the market. All the GPS have their pros and cons. Generally, we have three main types of GPS: street navigation systems, sports GPS systems, and handheld GPS systems. We will discuss each type for you to understand it clearly.

• Street Navigation GPS: This is the type of GPS unit that mounts on your RV’s dashboard or, in some cases, is already built into the newer, more expensive RVs.

A street navigation GPS can provide turn-by-turn directions, estimate your time of arrival at your next destination, tell you your current traveling speed, and keep track of the mileage you’ve traveled on your trip so far. The important thing is that this GPS comes with a set of preloaded maps for your region. Moreover, most of the routes can also be updated including international maps as well. 

Most include several important landmarks or waypoints that can come in handy in your travels, including gas stations, police departments, hospitals, airports, and other places of interest. One of the great advantages of the street navigation system is the ability to program as per your desire according to your desired route. The most advanced GPS systems in this category can connect right to your smartphone so that you can program routes or check directions on a user interface that you are more comfortable with. 

• Sports GPS System: Sports GPS system as the name suggests is more commonly used for sports appliances rather than RV travel.

Many sports GPS units are made to handle marine conditions. This is the thing that is trusted by many long-distance sailing teams. There is nothing to deny that sports GPS systems are more durable than those typical units which are installed in an RV. The disadvantage is that sports GPS systems offer small screen sizes. That is why it is difficult to decipher direction while you are rolling down the highway. 

• Handheld GPS systems: Handheld GPS systems are often used for applications like geocaching, long-distance backpacking, and wayfinding on foot in unfamiliar environments.

 As an addition to a dash-mounted GPS system, a handheld GPS can be a great tool for RVers who love to get out and explore trails and wilderness areas once they’re settled into a new campground. 

Installation requirements

You will find several mounting options in the best RV GPS models. This feature will help the user to get freedom so that one can mount their unit in such a location that makes the most sense for the RV. 

There are some common methods of installation. The method involves a suction cup and a windshield mount. However, you need to make sure you are comfortable with the installation requirements of the GPS unit before finalizing the purchase. Another thing that you need to keep in mind is that you should select a steady and angled arm GPS unit apart from looking at the mounting options.

This will keep the GPS unit from shifting positions as you bounce down the road. Remember that if the GPS doesn’t remain secured in the place, then there is no need to glance down at the visual display for the confirmation of the verbal direction that they are receiving from the unit. 

It is better to stay away from gooseneck arms. It is because these models have a tendency to vibrate along with the motion of the vehicle. Moreover, this makes it difficult to see the visual display and can also cause internal damage to the unit itself. 

Ease of installation is a really important factor when you’re choosing a GPS unit for your RV because there are units out there that simply snap or slide into place and allow you to get on with planning your next RV adventure. 

User Interface

Looking for the user interface is another important thing for us to look at. However, a GPS user interface generally dictates how to interact with it while you are driving or stopping. Now, it depends upon the user which they would like to choose. People are tech-savvy nowadays. They mainly tend to use modern devices which are easy for them to use. That is why looking for a simple and familiar user interface will be highly beneficial. You can go for the touch screen device. It is good for you. But when you’re driving down the road, the easiest way to interact with a GPS is through voice commands. So, in my opinion, the touch screen is better. 

Screen Size

Evaluating screen size is nothing like rocket science. Users mostly rely on audio clues for the GPS. It is helpful for the user to keep a watchful eye on it. As we know that the larger the screen the more comfortable you will be. In the case of a large screen, you can view all the details and turn with a quick glance. But in the case of a small screen, it will be difficult for you to view it.

That is why it is essential to check the screen size. While others think a larger screen might be a distraction for you. So, it is up to you which one you will love to choose. With a larger screen, it becomes easier to gather the information you need without your eyes lingering for too long. 

When you’re selecting an RV GPS unit, be sure to look for a model with a minimum screen size of five inches across. We know that a big screen size means expensive. If price is not a matter for you. Then choosing the big screen size will be perfect for you. If you do opt for a model with a larger screen size, just make sure that you mount it in such a way that it doesn’t impede your view of the road. 

Wifi and Bluetooth Connectivity

Most modern GPS units allow you to connect to your RV or your smartphone via Bluetooth technology. This is a very functional feature because it provides the ability to interface with your GPS in a more streamlined fashion. This includes placing phone calls straight through the GPS interface and your RV’s speakers, redirecting your route using voice-activated navigation, and pulling up a new podcast to pass the time as you’re rolling down the road. Having a GPS that can connect to the Internet also means you’ll have access to real-time traffic updates and up-to-date weather information for the region to which you’re traveling. These can be important for smooth RV travel because more information allows you to adjust your routes so that, ultimately, you spend less time on the road and more time enjoying your destinations. 

Portability

Another important thing which we need to keep in mind is portability. Generally, we need portable RV units. Portability helps us because we can park the RV and head out on the trails. That is why everybody looks for the portability option. While this is less common amongst full-time RVers, it’s worth noting that you should choose a GPS unit that can go with you so that you can use it in a variety of settings if that is your preference.  

Data Entry Method

Unless the user always has a co-pilot at the ready to input the address of the next destination, you’ll probably have to plan if your GPS only allows data entry by hand. In other words, it’s always smart to avoid taking your hands off the steering wheel and eyes off the road to enter your next destination into your GPS. Fortunately, many modern GPS units offer voice-activated navigation.

I think this is an essential feature because let’s face it, I don’t always think far enough in advance to plug the requisite address into my GPS before the need becomes a bit more urgent. The last thing you should be doing is trying to enter an address manually while shifting lanes and stressing if you’re going to miss your exit. 

Over time, smart GPS units will actually recall some of your favorite destinations and keep track for later use. 

Resolution

Surely it is always great to have a large-sized display for your RV GPS so that you can see text and the map properly. Although, this might not be true if the display is not clear enough in terms of the detail and image clarity that it offers. For the same, you will need to check the resolution offered by your RV GPS unit.

Just like a smartphone, laptop, or any other display, a higher resolution of 1280 x 800 or similar will look much better than a lower resolution of 800 x 480. That being said, a higher resolution RV GPS unit will also be more expensive and not the best budget option. What Is The Best RV GPS To Buy?

Before giving you thorough information it’s very important to know that no two RV GPS is the same. That is why it is highly important for everyone to know the best comparison to buy RV GPS. Let’s illustrate it with an example. If the user mainly keeps RV stored in the driveway and only required for a few trips in the year, then there is no requirement to overspend on top of a line GPS unit. 

In this section, I’m going to offer some concrete product recommendations based on different types of RV lifestyles, budgets, feature preferences, and safety concerns. For those that truly desire a do-it-all GPS and don’t have any budget restrictions, I’d recommend spending that little bit extra on the Garmin RV 785.

For my money, this is one of the best GPS units on the market and I really love its compatibility with a backup camera and dashcam that automatically detects incidents and saves footage just in case you need it later. If you don’t want to have to squint when trying to confirm whether or not the voice coming out of your GPS is actually telling you to turn down the right road, go for the Magellan RoadMate. 

With a screen display of seven inches, it’s hard to miss your next turn with this GPS and its larger screen size makes for safer navigation so that you don’t have to take your eyes off the road to double-check directions. 

When budget restrictions come into play, start considering the Garmin RV 770. It still offers all of the essential features you’ll need to plan trips and navigate successfully to your destinations, but it comes at nearly half the price of some of the high-end RV GPS models. Sometimes the degree to which you enjoy your time traveling from one destination to another is just as important as how much you like spending time at the destinations themselves. 

Warranty

Surely it is vital to get yourself a feature-rich and highly functional RV GPS unit for the best overall experience. But if it does not stay functional after some time, then there is no point of getting a high-end RV GPS. In other words, you should always go with a decently reliable RV GPS. Usually, you will come across most RV GPS units with a 1-year long warranty except for a few units, including a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind. These are the buying guides that we have shared with you. We hope that this guide will help you while purchasing the RV GPS unit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What warranty options shall I choose after purchasing a GPS unit?

Answer: Well, to be precise it can be said that it entirely depends on the exact RV GPS unit that the user is purchasing. The work of the manufacturers is to cover repairs only to the damage to certain parts or components. However, you need to be careful in this matter as to which components are covered by the manufacturer’s components. The warranty period is between 3 to 5 years. So, you need to keep these things in your mind while checking the warranty. 

Q. Is it possible to use the GPS unit for the upcoming road trip?

Answer: It entirely depends upon the specific model which you are choosing. Several users come with a trip plan while others don’t have that plan. A trip planner can be a very useful feature for saving trips so that you can more smoothly navigate those routes again at a later date. Other useful features of a GPS trip planner include reordering locations, optimizing stop orders, editing active routes, and adding trip scheduling information. 

Q. Will the GPS unit updates itself when the new roads are built?

Answer: All GPS units do not update their maps automatically. These updates include new and changed roads as well as other traffic obstacles. Some units will need to be manually updated so that you have access to the most up-to-date traffic and route information. Whether they update automatically or manually, most modern GPS units come with lifetime map updates. This is really important because roads and streets change very often. Even a slight detour can cause a significant delay in your travel timeline, so lifetime updates are an important GPS feature to help you avoid that sort of delay. 

Q. Does the RV GPS unit cause any trouble?

Answer: Yes, sometimes RV GPS units cause trouble. The most common issue that arises is the result of dead or depleted batteries. Interestingly enough, not using your GPS system very often can lead to having a low battery when you finally do go to turn it on. 

One manageable way to evade this problem is simply to check your battery well in advance of leaving for a trip. Another common issue is a loose SD card, which is where any routes or trips you have planned will be saved.  Final ThoughtsWell, this is all about the RV GPS unit.

We hope that you have liked our article. Most importantly, we have tried to give you all sorts of information in this article. Whenever you are deciding to go out for long road trips it is very important for the user to know the right route. Though people nowadays use maps and other equipment, those are not enough to have a complete guide. Often users don’t know several things.

Even if the users don’t travel in an RV full-time, the task of navigating unknown roads can seriously impact your ability to actually enjoy a destination once you finally arrive. An RV GPS unit will take the stress out of navigation and allow both you and your partner to place the blame on a third party if you do get lost. 

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