Choosing a SatNav for Your Campervan

Once you’ve build your campervan, it’s time to discover the many beautiful places in this country and further afield. To do that, you’ll need to choose a satnav for your campervan.

The simplest option is just to use Google Maps, or Apple Maps. But, as you probably know already, they’re far from ideal options.

Because they were designed to appeal to the greatest number of users, for anyone not driving a family car, they’re often more trouble than they’re worth.

My experience shows me that the routes are decided using the fastest route (using posted speed limits as a guide). If motorways aren’t available, it’ll happily take you down narrow country lanes that an average car would struggle with. All in the name of saving a minute, or two on a fifty mile journey!

And, that’s assuming you could drive your 3 tonne campervan at 60mph down a road where the side mirrors are touching the hedges beside the road.

You’ll need a better alternative.

Although there isn’t really one single “most effective yet budget-friendly” satnav, here’s a breakdown of factors to consider and some recommendations based on average requirements:

 

Key Features when choosing a SatNav for your Campervan:

Customised Routing:

This is the most crucial feature. A good campervan satnav allows you to input your vehicle’s dimensions (height, weight, length, width). It can then use that info to avoid narrow roads, low bridges, weight restrictions, and unsuitable turns, etc.

Points of Interest (POIs):

Pre-loaded databases of campsites, caravan parks, service areas, and other relevant locations are invaluable for planning stops.

Map Updates:

Ensure the device offers free or reasonably priced lifetime map updates for the UK and Europe, as road networks change.

Traffic Information:

Real-time traffic updates help you avoid congestion and delays. This can be via DAB, smartphone connection, or built-in SIM.

Screen Size and Clarity:

A larger, clear touchscreen is easier to view, especially for drivers of larger vehicles. 7-inch screens are a popular choice.

Ease of Use:

An intuitive interface is essential for stress-free navigation.

Speed Camera Alerts:

Warnings about fixed and mobile speed cameras can help you drive safely and avoid fines.

Lane Guidance:

Clear visual and spoken instructions for lane changes at junctions are very helpful.

 

Budget-Friendly Considerations:

Refurbished or Older Models:

Consider looking at slightly older models from reputable brands, which can offer excellent features at a lower price.

Smartphone Apps (with caveats):

While not dedicated satnavs, apps like CoPilot GPS offer camper-specific routing and offline maps. However, reliability can be affected by phone signal, and prolonged use can drain your battery. Dedicated satnavs generally have stronger GPS receivers.

Sales and Discounts:

Keep an eye out for sales events and discounts from retailers.

 

 

Recommended Brands and Models (Considering Budget and Features):

When choosing a satnav for your campervan, it’s difficult to specify a definitive winner. You’re needs will probably be different to mine. But, based on the list of requirements above, here are some brands and models that should strike a good balance:

TomTom:

The TomTom GO Camper Max (2nd gen) and potentially older “GO Camper” models are often recommended.

They include camper-specific routing, POIs, Wi-Fi updates, and traffic information.

Keep an eye out for deals, or discounts. The TomTom GO Classic series might be a more budget-friendly starting point, but make sure it has camper-specific features before you buy.

Garmin:

While often considered a premium brand, older Garmin Camper models like the Camper 770LMT-D (if you can find it at a reduced price) offer excellent camper-specific features.

If not, the CamperCam 795 Caravan/Motorhome GPS Sat Nav is a good alternative, but at around £430, it isn’t cheap.

Aguri:

The Aguri RV520 is specifically mentioned as a “best budget motorhome sat nav” in one source. Aguri generally focuses on navigation for larger vehicles and this option is specifically for motorhomes and campervans.

It has a small screen at only 5″, but at a price point around £240, it’s more affordable than many.

Unbranded/Less Known Brands:

While tempting due to lower prices, be cautious with unbranded satnavs. They may lack reliable mapping, updates, and crucial camper-specific routing features. User reviews are essential if considering these.

If you do decide to go with a cheaper, less known brand, this 9″ satnav from BloMise is under £100.

It doesn’t have the extras like being able to add your van dimensions, but it does allow you to choose the ‘Easiest’ route. This basically means reducing the number of road changes, and sticking to major roads where possible.

 

Tips for Finding a Budget-Friendly Option:

Define your “must-have” features:

Decide which features (camper routing, POIs, map updates, traffic) are essential for your needs. You might be able to save money by opting for a device with fewer bells and whistles.

Read reviews:

Look for reviews specifically mentioning use with campervans, to see if the routing and features are effective in real-world scenarios.

Compare prices from different retailers:

Prices can vary significantly between stores. I’ve included links to Amazon, but places like Halfords, CEX, or even eBay are viable options.

Consider the long-term cost:

Factor in the cost of map updates if they are not free. A slightly more expensive unit with free lifetime updates might be more cost-effective in the long run.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a specific “best budget-friendly” model is hard to define, focusing on brands like TomTom and Aguri, considering slightly older models, and prioritising camper-specific routing features will help you find an effective satnav without breaking the bank.

Always read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.

The World awaits, and a good SatNav will help you get there!