Apps come and go all the time, and I think “favorite apps” lists are always like a snapshot in time. So here is a snapshot of our 10 favorite apps for August 2019, in no particular order:
1. Coverage?
Coverage? by Two Steps Beyond/Technomadia provides nationwide overlay maps of cellular coverage by carrier. We actually got this app before we even started RVing, because our last sticks-and-bricks home had nonexistent AT&T coverage, and we needed to change carriers. I have yet to find another map as detailed as this one, and the HD upgrade is well worth the cost (currently $2.99).
2. RV Parky
RV Parky is a free search and review site for RV parks, with the ability to create public or private trip itineraries (trip-planning is only available if you create an account). In addition to traditional RV parks, you can filter by feature (50 amp service, pull-thru, WiFi, propane, etc.), stores with free overnight parking, and gas stations.
3. Campendium
Campendium is another free search and review site for RV parks, national parks, and free camping, with user-reported information about cell signal strength by carrier, prices, and the ability to rate specific details like RV access, noise, and cleanliness.
4. US Public Lands
US Public Lands is another Technomadia creation. It offers overlay maps for camping on the different types of public lands, including Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Forest Service, and Army Corps of Engineers (COE), to help you find boondocking spots. Currently, this app is $2.99.
5. Passport America
Passport America is a fee-for-membership club that lets you use your membership (currently about $44/year) for discounted stays at RV parks. Discounts are typically 50%, but parks can impose stipulations such as limiting the length of stay or time of year. However, you don’t need to be a member to use their website or free app, and it has a great trip-planning feature.
6. Pilot Flying J
Pilot Flying J has a free app to find the nearest service station for gas, treats, propane, CAT scales, dump stations, and medical clinics (did you know Flying J is aiming to open 50 clinics nationwide by 2024?). The app will let you “clip” coupons for freebies and discounts, and you can add your Good Sam card to your account so you always get the 5-cent discount if you have a Good Sam membership. This app also has a trip planner that lets you see all the Pilot Flying J stops on the way to your destination.
7. Highway Weather
Highway Weather by Voyage Studios lets you plan a travel route and gives you the weather (including wind speeds!) along the way. You can adjust your start time and see how that affects the weather along your route, too. The app is free with ads, but it’s only $1.99 to remove ads, which we think is an incredible bargain.
8. Weatherbug
Weatherbug is a weather app that will deliver location-specific alerts for weather and air quality, as well as pollen maps. You can set up alerts for destination cities, as well, so you’ll know what to expect before you get there. The app is free with advertisements, but you can turn off ads by subscribing for $2.99/year.
9. iExit
iExit uses GPS to locate gas, shops, and services off the highway exits along your route. You can see what’s available at each upcoming exit from gas stations to pharmacies to hardware stores. Gas station listings also include whether diesel is available and recent gas prices for many stations, too. The app is free, and only works for the interstate.
10. Find Me Gluten Free
Find Me Gluten Free is search and review site with iOS and Android companion apps specifically for finding gluten-free-friendly restaurants and grocery stores. This has been a huge help to us when traveling and we’ve run low on supplies. Because I (Jen) am too sensitive to contamination to risk eating at most restaurants, I really appreciate the option to filter by dedicated gluten free businesses. One caveat: because gluten-free has become a fad diet, I suggest taking all the reviews with a grain of (gluten-free) salt. Reviewers now have the option to identify as celiac and non-celiac, which helps to identify who doesn’t need to care about contamination and who is on a medically-necessary diet. The app (and website) is free, but you can unlock extra features for the unreasonably high subscription price of $20/year.y]
We’d love to hear about your favorite apps!