

Want to know about public campgrounds where you’re headed? This is the app for you. You can also purchase an upgraded golf membership for $139 a year, which includes parking at golf courses and country clubs. Sites typically offer dry camping and members are encouraged to purchase something from the host to thank them for their hospitality. A basic Harvest Hosts subscription costs $99 per year and allows you to stay overnight for free at more than 1,700 locations. Want to park overnight at a winery, brewery, or farm? Harvest Hosts is a membership site that lets self-contained RVs park overnight at unique locations across the U.S. Or, use an RV-specific GPS to get a better idea of just how long the drive will take. If you’ve plugged your route into your favorite map app, a good tip is to assume the time to your destination will take 20 to 25 percent longer in an RV. You’ll typically be going slower, your gas mileage won’t be as good, and you’ll be stopping to refuel more often. It will take you longer to get to your destination in an RV than it does in a car.

An RV GPS app can help you find alternative routes. It can be stressful driving, so many RVers prefer to find routes that avoid steep road grades. You’ll be going much slower up the grades than in a car and coming down can be difficult when you’re towing extra weight. Steep grades can also cause trouble for RVs. Remember to write down those measurements and keep them handy in your rig, so you can reference them at a moment’s notice-many RVers use a sticky note on the dash. When determining your height clearance, make sure to include your A/C unit, solar panels, WiFi antennas, and any other objects on your RV roof. You can avoid these by measuring your RV and using an RV-specific GPS app that allows you to enter your rig’s measurements to find a safe route. Even gas stations have overhangs that you might not clear when fueling up. Similarly, roads with switchbacks and sharp turns may not be able to accommodate long rigs, so keep an eye out for posted length restrictions. Things like low bridges, narrow tunnels, and low hanging power lines can all spell disaster for tall RVs. Pay attention to height and length restrictions on roads, especially when you’re driving through towns and cities. Related 6 steps to planning a successful RV road trip Photo: Rennai Hoefer Know the height and length of your rig You’ll need to keep a few things in mind as you’re planning your trip.

If you’re new to RVing, driving a large rig can be a bit intimidating. Ready to plan your dream RV trip, but not sure where to find places to stay? Wondering if you can safely fit under overpasses on a scenic byway? Navigating a safe RV route is a bit more involved than a typical car road trip, but there are plenty of apps to help you along the way.
