RVers like you use a smart phone for a variety of reasons – to check the weather, bank accounts, MARVAC updates, directions, social media. However, most users are unaware of the many apps that are available to help them out in ways they never thought possible – such as generating RV checklists, finding free Wi-Fi, locating cheap gas, and how to tie knots. Apps can make your RV experience simpler. Below are nine smart, interesting, and fun apps that you may have never thought to add to your device.
Anti-Mosquito – Sonic Repeller: You asked for assistance, technology answered. Introducing the Anti-Mosquito phone application. Instead of lathering and surrounding yourself with sprays and candles that just don’t seem to work, download the free Anti-Mosquito app. The app uses different pitches to find the best frequency for repelling mosquitos and other bugs in your region. Although this app received 4 out of 5 stars and is highly recommended, it has not officially been confirmed by scientists as effective and does not guarantee 100 percent protection. It’s best to still keep spray on hand. Both iTunes and Android have their own free-version of the app.
Coverage?: Coverage? is the perfect app for any traveler. For $2.99 on iTunes, your carrier’s (AT&T, Sprint, Verizon, and T-Mobile) map is in your pocket. No Internet is required as the app has the coverage maps stored automatically. It also offers insight into roaming areas and allows users to focus on finding the coverage type – LTE, 4G, 3G, etc. – that they desire. Android has its own versions of the app: Cell Phone Coverage Map (free) and OpenSignal (free).
RV Checklist: Have you ever been on an RV trip and forgot something? RV Checklist is the perfect $0.99 (iTunes) solution. There are a variety of lists that can be created: a short trip, extended trip, maintenance to do, arrive at site, depart from site, winterization, and more! This easy-to-use app populates numerous items to help you with your list and allows you to customize them based on your unique needs. Share them back and forth with other cellular devices and computers. Android users can download this app for free.
Waze: Waze is a free app for iPhones and Androids that gives users real-time navigation and driving advice from other drivers who are using the same roads in order to help save time and gas money as well as improve the commute. There is nothing worse than starting an RV trip stuck in a traffic jam. Avoid reported accidents, police traps, construction, and other hazards on the road with Waze. This app is ideal for any RVer, but especially those who do a lot of traveling.
Map My Hike: Never get lost on the trails again! Map My Hike is a fitness tracking app that uses your phone’s GPS to track your fitness activities. Whether you are exploring a new campsite or hitting the state trails, Map My Hike has all the features you need. Use it for workout statistics, sharing your progress, or simply to keep track of your location. This free app is a great addition. Map My Hike is available on iTunes and GooglePlay.
First Aid by American Red Cross: You’re prepping dinner for your family and you happen to cut your finger. Chances are, a hospital is not right next-door. The First Aid app by the American Red Cross offers expert advice for emergencies ranging from simple allergies to extremes like earthquakes. In this free app, there are videos, interactive quizzes, and step-by-step advice to first aid. Don’t forget to download one of the most important apps for travelers and campers!
GoSkyWatch Planetarium: The GoSkyWatch Planetarium app is great for those who sit around the campfire and star gaze after hours. Sometimes you end up questioning if that bright light in the sky is actually a star, satellite, or just an airplane. This free app helps users find and identify stars, planets, constellations, and more using your smartphone’s built-in capabilities. Once pointed to the sky, users can get information regarding the object’s name, brightness, and distance. Whether you love astronomy or simply just want to know what exactly it is you are looking at, the GoSkyWatch Planetarium app is one of the most powerful apps on the market.
Free Wi-Fi Finder: This free app is available to those who are tired of using up their data on the road and at the RV site. The Free Wi-Fi Finder uses hotspots that are locally stored on the app itself to find the nearest hotspot near you. Don’t like this specific app? There are a bunch of Wi-Fi finders available for download that offer fast, reliable, and up-to-date information.
Gas Guru: Gas Guru is the new alternative to the once raved “Gas Buddy” app. This app will work to find the cheapest gas near you. Whether you are on the road or at your campsite, the app will use the best nearby feature to save you time from hunting for the best gas prices.
Most of these apps and similar versions are available for download on Google Play and iTunes for a small amount or free. The goal of these apps is to make your RV experience fun, simpler and hassle-free, whether it is coming to the rescue with first aid advice or teaching you about the current meteor shower.