10 Must-Have Road Trip Apps for Hassle-Free Travel

Road trips are a great way to explore new places and create lasting memories, but they can also be a source of stress and confusion. From finding the best route to navigating unfamiliar roads, many challenges come with hitting the road.

Apps to Make Your Next Road Trip a Success

Are you planning a road trip soon? While the open road and new sights can be an exciting adventure, they can also be a source of stress if you don't have the right tools.

Knowing which apps are worth downloading can be overwhelming with so many available apps. That's why we've compiled a list of the top road trip apps to help you plan your journey, stay organized and make the most of your time on the road.

1. Waze

According to a survey, Waze is the second most popular navigation app, and its real-time updates make it incredibly useful for drivers. Waze helps you easily avoid traffic jams, detours, and construction; you'll be able to navigate new cities just like a local! The app is also more proactive than Google Maps when changing routes due to unexpected problems, so be prepared for some winding roads.

To save time (and your sanity) on your next drive, use Waze's data collected from other drivers to streamline your journey. It's free of charge for iOS and Android users—get ready to explore without any delays!

2. Roadside America

Discovering unique and offbeat sights on your road trip can be easy with the Roadside America app. Whether it's a giant sculpture, a quirky mural, or a one-of-a-kind tour, this app will help you find it.

It's like having your guide to the most unusual places in the U.S., from giant cheese-carrying mice in Wisconsin to huge plugs in Philadelphia. You can download the app for $2.99 on iOS devices and take advantage of additional in-app purchases for even more exploring options.

3. HotelTonight

If you need to pull over for a restful night during your road trip, HotelTonight is the perfect app for you. Booking last-minute accommodations can be a breeze with the HotelTonight app.

With its user-friendly interface and unbeatable day-of deals on unsold rooms, you can access over 1,000 properties worldwide, from Mexico City to Jakarta. So whether you're planning a domestic or international trip, this app can be a lifesaver for those unexpected travel itinerary changes.

And the best part? The HotelTonight app is free for iOS and Android users, making last-minute bookings accessible to everyone. So to keep unexpected changes in your itinerary from slowing down your journey, use the HotelTonight app and make those unplanned stops a breeze.

4. The Dyrt

For those who prefer to camp under the stars during their travels, The Dyrt app is the ideal companion. It's the No. 1 camping app on iOS (and also available on Android). It connects you to over a million experienced campers who submit reviews, photos, and tips to help you find the perfect campsite. You can even book specific sites right within the app!

Plus, with its free version, The Dyrt offers users convenience at no cost—but if you need extra benefits like trip planning or offline searching in remote areas, there's a premium version available for just $35.99 per year.

5. RoadWarrior

Have you ever wondered how delivery drivers manage to hit so many different locations in a short amount of time? The answer lies in the use of route-planning apps like RoadWarrior. These apps allow drivers to plan their routes most efficiently, considering factors such as traffic and toll roads.

RoadWarrior, in particular, goes above and beyond other route-planning apps by considering further time-consuming details, such as stop lights and school zones. The app allows users to enter all of their stops for the day, and it will create a route that maximizes their time on the road.

The app's free version for road-trippers is likely enough, allowing up to eight stops per route. However, for delivery drivers with dozens of visits per day, the subscription options starting at $10 per month may be more suitable.

6. PlugShare

Are you looking for an eco-friendly way to plan your road trip? With the rise in the popularity of electric vehicles, PlugShare can help you locate the best EV charging stations along your journey. This app is the world's most widely used charging station finder, with over 610,000 stations across North America, Europe, and beyond.

And real user reviews allow you to get an inside look at the fastest, most reliable, and overall best stations. Downloading this app won't cost you a dime, and it's compatible with iOS and Android devices!

7. GasBuddy

Wouldn't finding the cheapest gas prices on a road trip be great? That's precisely what GasBuddy can do! All you need to do is enter your starting point and destination, and you will find the cheapest gas prices. The free version has everything you need and a premium option for added features.

The app's cost-saving benefits are substantial, as it has helped customers save over $3.1 billion at the pump by reducing fuel costs by up to 25 cents per gallon with each use, as per the company's website.

8. iExit Interstate Exit Guide

Finding the best place to stop on a road trip can take time, especially with all the exit signs going by in a blur. But don't worry; iExit Interstate Exit Guide is here to help! It lists upcoming exits and details on what's there and provides Yelp reviews for businesses.

Plus, it pulls fuel prices from OPIS (Oil Price Information Service), so you'll never have to worry about overpaying at the pump. It's completely free of charge and available for download on both iOS and Android devices.

9. Airbnb

If you're seeking a more personal and unique experience during your travels, Airbnb is the answer. The app boasts over 600,000 properties in the U.S. alone, and its map-based search function allows you to find the perfect accommodation. Plus, you can read reviews before making a booking, whether it's planned or a last-minute decision.

Additionally, the app offers a variety of experiences beyond just vacation rentals, such as pottery classes and guided walking tours. These features are free to access and available for download on iOS and Android devices.

10. Google Maps

Regarding reliable navigation apps for your road trip, Google Maps is the top choice, hands down! This app is far and away the most popular choice, with one survey finding that it's six times more popular than its rivals. Thanks to its comprehensive data and attention to detail, it provides the best directions based on distance, road conditions, and traffic patterns.

Google Maps also gives you route options and precise travel time estimates between destinations. Plus, you can insert multiple waypoints if you need a quick coffee or fancy an overnight stay—you can read reviews in the app! Best of all, it's free and available on iOS and Android!

Don't Leave Home Without These Road Trip Apps

With these apps in tow, you'll be ready to explore the open road! You can discover new places, save money and make your trip hassle-free, all while having a blast. So grab your backpack, load up your car and, embark on an epic road trip today!