GPS

paddykernahan wrote:
......
so opted to get the RV specific GPS......I don't want to have to depend on cell service so still want stand alone GPS.

I have decided to go the same route as you with the Garmin 770.

As for 'stand alone', I think pretty much all Ipads and tablets ARE stand alone. They work off of the satellites and not wi-fi for GPS operations. I use my Tablet on my boat when long range cruising as a back-up GPS. The real down side of Tablets is that GPS really uses up the batteries. When traveling, I have the Tablet on GPS mode and plugged into a 12V accessory socket. It eats up the battery faster than I can keep it charged. it will go to almast zero charge in about 7 hours - with the accessory 12V plugged in. I also noticed that when I downloaded the marine program it stated that in GPS mode, it will shorten battery life - they are not lying.
I'm pretty sure I will go with the garmin and a Tablet App for back-up.
Anyway, thanks all for the input.

Just ordered a Garmin RV 770LMT-S.
New to motorhomes and a bit concerned about low bridges and weight restrictions so opted to get the RV specific GPS.
I have always used Garmin products and have always been happy.
I don't want to have to depend on cell service so still want stand alone GPS.

Tony B wrote:
What is your favorite GPS?

Garmin. I have 3 - Garmin ETrex for hiking, Garmin Approach for Golf, and Garmin Nuvi in my F-150. This is the 4th vehicle that I've used this Nuvi in, and since I only paid $189 for it, that is a huge savings over any factory in dash unit.

CoPilot is what we use. It does not need cell service as it uses the GPS in your phone. We upgraded to the new RV version with free live traffic for one year. We've been using it for 2-3 yrs with zero problems.

:) Hi I have a Garmin RV 760 GPS with wireless back up camera for my trailer.

Many people swear by apps like CoPilot and Google Maps on their phone or tablet. I've had to change route information in areas with absolutely no cell phone service to be comfortable with those.

CoPilot requires no cell service to work. It works on my iPhone with or without cell service & iPad Air that has no cellular service turned on.

The optional traffic info on CoPilot may need cell service on them to work.

An iPad, big beautiful screen with auto brightness, also gives me services at all the exits and if I want I can tether it to my phone and it will give real-time traffic, weather radar including lightning.

Total cost, since I already had the iPad, was $100 for the add on GPS receiver.

I like a Garmin for driving near cities with heavy traffic. They have the best most current traffic info IMHO.

I use a Rand McNally RV GPS for towing. I like the interface and the way POIs like campgrounds are laid out and searchable. I don't like Garmin's campgrounds search info.

My best RV buddy likes a Magellan RV GPS to use with his 40 ft motorhome - I can't stand the interface of that GPS.

Many people swear by apps like CoPilot and Google Maps on their phone or tablet. I've had to change route information in areas with absolutely no cell phone service to be comfortable with those.

No matter which you choose a few pointers:

1) Use the Fastest Route method. Never use Shortest Route for an RV - it will direct you down dirt farm paths.

2) Never completely trust any GPS to give you perfect directions. Know the roads/ route you plan to travel, know how to use a map, and remember driving is your responsiblity, not the GPS. If it wants you to go down a questionable road, DON'T. Pull over and check a map.

3) Most RV GPS have a height/ length/ weight capability to define your RV. Use it. However, pay attention, and if you see a sign saying a bridge is low for your height, or a weight restriction under your total weight, or a prohibition for your length - STOP and check.

Know exactly how tall your rig is - MEASURE it - don't use the brochure. Know how long your total hooked up length is - MEASURE it. Know how much your rig weight - there are CAT Scales at truck stops everywhere that don't cost much.

Again NEVER EVER TRUST a GPS to be perfect.

They are great tools, and like any tool you must learn to use it. Pick a route and run that route several time withs different options selected. Learn the strengths and weaknesses of the model you choose.

I am towing tomorrow from Fairfield, CA to Red Bluff, CA - a pretty straight run a few miles over to I-80, a couple miles to I-505, and a straight north run to where I-505 merges with I-5. I am programming the GPS tonight with a couple waypoints to make sure it follows the route the way I want to drive.

Tony B wrote:
I noticed some of the GPS's say "RV" and some say for "trucks".
Would I be better off using the one for trucks?

My buddy had one for trucks and it gives lots of info on weight stations and how to get around them. Not sure it would be much help with a RV.

I noticed some of the GPS's say "RV" and some say for "trucks".
Would I be better off using the one for trucks?