8 Must-Have Apps for Camping and RV Travel

Your phone is the most powerful camping tool you own, right after a good headlamp. These eight apps live on our home screens and get used on literally every trip.

1. iOverlander (Free)

The gold standard for finding free and low-cost camping spots worldwide. User-submitted locations with photos, GPS coordinates, and detailed reviews. Filters for cell signal, water availability, and terrain. Download maps offline before heading into areas without service.

2. The Dyrt (Free / Pro $36/yr)

Think of it as Yelp for campgrounds. Over 1 million campgrounds and campsites reviewed by real campers. The Pro version lets you book discounted sites and access free camping on private land through their "Dyrt Alerts" feature.

3. Roadtrippers (Free / Plus $30/yr)

The best trip planning app for road trips. Plot your route, and it shows you attractions, campgrounds, restaurants, and scenic viewpoints along the way. Syncs across devices so you can plan on your laptop and navigate from your phone.

4. GasBuddy (Free)

Fuel is usually the biggest variable cost of an RV trip. GasBuddy shows real-time gas prices along your route so you can fill up at the cheapest station. Over a week-long trip, this easily saves $30-50.

5. Weather Underground (Free)

More detailed and accurate than the default weather app. Hyper-local forecasts, hourly breakdowns, and weather alerts. Essential for planning hiking days, avoiding storms, and deciding whether to set up your awning.

6. AllTrails (Free / Plus $36/yr)

The most comprehensive trail database in the US. Filters by difficulty, distance, and elevation gain. Download offline maps for hikes in areas without cell service. The community photos give you a real preview of what to expect on each trail.

7. Togo RV (Free)

Built specifically for RVers. Finds dump stations, propane refills, RV-friendly gas stations, and repair shops along your route. Also has a maintenance tracker to remind you about oil changes, tire rotations, and seal inspections.

8. Google Maps Offline Maps (Free)

This one's obvious, but too many people forget to download offline maps before heading into remote areas. Open Google Maps, search for your destination area, and tap "Download offline map." It'll save a region that works without cell service for up to 30 days.