Mobile applications for Vanlife and nomadic living
Update from Saturday, September 30, 2023: We have added some applications that we have tested since writing this article, and we have elaborated on some existing information.
Introduction
If there’s one thing that has fueled the buzz and the “popularization” of the nomadic lifestyle, it’s undoubtedly the rise of social media and the plethora of mobile apps that have made this way of life more accessible. Sure, there are many travelers who love to “roam” with a paper map, find secluded spots without any assistance, wash their clothes in the river, and carry a compass.
However, the majority of travelers, whether full-time or just on vacation, use little aids to make their day-to-day lives easier through mobile apps. And we unapologetically admit to being among them. As you know, we work for a good chunk of the day to sustain our traveling lifestyle, so it’s crucial to save time on certain aspects.
If we were independently wealthy, or if we had chosen to live off our savings, our approach would be different. But that’s (unfortunately, lol) not the case.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to the mobile apps we rely on daily. And remember, as the saying goes, “Different strokes for different folks!” So, buckle up, and let’s dive into the digital nomad toolkit!
Commençons pas la base, trouver son chemin. Après tout, on vit sur la route ou pas ?
Google Maps • The Essential Vanlifer’s Companion
📱 Download: Android – iPhone •💰 Free
Ah, trusty Google Maps! Who would have thought such a commonplace app would become our most treasured ally on the winding roads of Europe? Whether it’s to discover that hidden slice of paradise in the heart of nature, to bypass city traffic jams, or even to locate the nearest supermarket to stock up Edouard, Google Maps was there. Honestly, without it, our adventures would have tasted a tad… let’s say, chaotic!
- Reliable Navigation: Whether you’re on foot, cycling, or driving Edouard, Google Maps directs you accurately.
- Real-time Updates: Traffic jams? Roadworks? No worries, Google Maps keeps you informed live.
- Points of Interest: Uncover each region’s hidden gems, from historical sites to quaint local eateries.
- Offline Maps: Plan ahead and download maps for areas with low connectivity.
- Pin Locations: Heard of a cool spot? Mark it for later!
- Settings for Campervans: While Google Maps handles routes for campervans fairly well, it can sometimes suggest unsuitable roads.
- Connectivity Dependence: To fully enjoy all its features, a good connection is required.
- Privacy: Google knows all about your movements. For some, this might feel a bit intrusive.
Our Verdict on Google Maps
It’s undoubtedly one of the apps we’ve used most daily and our go-to navigation app. Google would be the first to tell you since it now knows everything about our journey!
Waze • The Community Experience on Four Wheels
Download: Android – iPhone •💰 Free
At the start of our journey, we toggled between Google Maps and Waze, but the latter quickly took the lead. Why? Its very essence: a navigation app powered by the community. Imagine thousands of travelers sharing real-time information about traffic, road closures, speed cameras, and even police patrols.
It’s like having an army of co-pilots by your side! And then there’s that playful aspect, the gamification that makes every trip a tad more fun. Accumulating points, spotting other Waze users on the road—it’s an experience in itself. Of course, like everything, Waze has its imperfections, but with a community of nearly 140 million users worldwide, you rarely feel alone on the road.
- Real-time Info: Harness the power of the community for up-to-date information.
- Gamification: Turn your journeys into a game with points to earn and leaderboards to climb.
- Road Solidarity: The presence of other Waze users enhances the feeling of being part of a traveler’s community.
- Community Dependence: In less dense areas, the information might lack accuracy.
- Information Overload: With so many notifications and alerts, some might feel overwhelmed.
Our Verdict on Waze
Waze is more than just a navigation app. It’s an experience, a road companion. And that feeling of being part of a vast family of travelers? Priceless!
Experience apps to the fullest with endless data
A good number of these apps shine brightest with an active internet connection. While a few have offline capabilities, for the rest, you’ll want to be online.
When we’re on the move, Holafly is our go-to for seamless e-SIM connectivity. And here’s a bonus: we’ve got a special promo code for you to give their service a whirl and snag a discount.
Maps.me • Your Guide Off the Beaten Path
Download: Android – iPhone •💰 Free
With our trusty Edouard, we often ventured onto less-traveled paths, where internet connectivity is a luxury. In these moments, Maps.me became our savior. This app offers detailed offline maps and precise navigation, perfect for remote areas. More than once, we had to rely on Maps.me, and it never let us down.
However, a grain of salt: don’t rely too much on the estimated arrival time, as it tends to be a tad optimistic. And remember, before you venture out, download the map of the region you’re heading to while you still have network or Wi-Fi.
- Real-time Info: Harness the power of the community for up-to-date information.
- Gamification: Turn your journeys into a game with points to earn and leaderboards to climb.
- Road Solidarity: The presence of other Maps.me users enhances the feeling of being part of a traveler’s community.
- Estimated Arrival Time: Often inaccurate, it’s better to allow some extra time.
- Need for Pre-download: You must plan ahead and download maps in advance.
Our Verdict on Maps.me
Maps.me is a must-have for us. In the most remote corners of Europe, it was our compass. Just one piece of advice: prepare in advance, and you’ll be good to go!
Bonus:
ROAD LORDS • For the Road Giants
Download: Android – iPhone (not available) •💰 Free
We discovered TruckMap, the app specifically designed for behemoths (am I laying it on thick?) like our dear motorhome. With this app, no more nasty surprises! We can input all of Edouard’s details: its height, width, length, and even parameters that, let’s admit it, we don’t fully understand like the ADR Tunnel Code.
The goal?
To provide us with a tailor-made route, suited to our vehicle. And the cherry on top, as soon as Edouard starts, the app opens automatically. Design-wise, it reminds us a lot of Waze with its levels and points, a little extra that makes navigation even more enjoyable. And for those who like to be prepared, the paid version offers offline maps, perfect for our escapades in the most remote corners of Europe.
- Specifically Designed for Heavy Vehicles: Navigation tailored to each vehicle’s specifics.
- Customizable: Input all your vehicle’s details for a tailor-made route.
- Attractive Design: An interface reminiscent of Waze, making navigation fun with levels and points.
- Offline Maps: Available with the paid version for navigating even without a connection.
Lack of Experience: We haven’t had the chance to test it enough to identify all its weak points.
Our Verdict on Road Lords
It’s like having a tailor-made GPS for Edouard. We feel safe, guided with precision, even in the most unfamiliar places. But after the surprise of the first few tries, we still revert to Google Maps.
What apps do you use to find a vanlife spot?
It’s one of the most frequently asked questions (along with the one about money, of course). How do you find places to park for the night? Naturally, there are dedicated mobile apps for this. Each has its pros and cons, and it’s not uncommon to switch between them for the best results.
Caramaps • The French app for parking
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free and Paid versions available
When it comes to finding the perfect spot in France to park Edouard for the night, Caramaps is one of our top choices. Hooray for local apps! This tricolor app offers an impressive selection of 90,000 locations, ranging from motorhome areas to parking lots, and service areas. It’s one of the apps we use the most, especially during our very first road trip in France, which you can also find on the app.
What particularly appeals to us about Caramaps is its community aspect. Each user can share their travels, thus enriching the database. And for those who want an optimal experience, the paid version is a must. Say goodbye to ads and hello to offline mode and advanced filters! And the cherry on top? A top-notch team, always ready to help.
- Specifically designed for France: A rich database for the country.
- Community aspect: Share your travels and discover those of others.
- Beneficial paid version: For an ad-free experience with additional features.
Less extensive outside of France: The app still has some way to go to cover other countries. But the more the community contributes, the richer it will become.
Our Verdict on Caramaps
An intuitive app, rich in content, with a top-notch team. We hope to see even more spots abroad in the future!
Park4night • The app to find the perfect van spots
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
We often searched for the perfect place to rest after a day on the roads of Europe. That’s where Park4Night comes into play. This app is a must-have for every vanlifer. Like Caramaps, Park4Night offers a plethora of spots, from parking lots to campgrounds, picnic areas, and even laundromats. A real treasure for those who, like us, love wild camping but don’t want to risk an unpleasant surprise.
The paid version offers even more spots and an offline mode, perfect for remote areas. However, a small downside: its design could be improved, and it lacks a filter for vehicle height. But don’t be mistaken, user reviews and photos are a great help to avoid bad surprises.
- Rich Database: A multitude of spots to cater to all needs.
- User Reviews and Photos: To choose the best location with full knowledge.
- Beneficial Paid Version: More spots and an offline mode for an optimal experience.
- Design Needs Improvement: The interface could be more intuitive.
- Lack of Filters: Sometimes you have to dig to find a spot suitable for your vehicle’s height.
Our Verdict on Park4Night
Park4Night is our secret weapon for peaceful nights; the app has saved us so many times. Despite a few minor flaws, it’s an essential tool for our nomadic life with Edouard.
Camping Car Park • The luxury of service areas
Download: Android – Iphone • 💰 Free App and paid parking areas
Ah, the serenity of knowing where to park Edouard for the night! With the rise of the Camping Car Park company, this peace of mind has become a reality for many travelers like us. More and more municipalities and campgrounds trust this provider to manage their service areas. And honestly, we see why. During our getaway to Nantes, and then on the West coast in Labenne, we had the opportunity to test their services. A real breath of fresh air!
Their app is a gem. Detailed photos of each area, the number of available spots by date, and the ability to book in advance. No more unpleasant surprises of a crowded area after a long day on the road. It’s luxury at your fingertips for every vanlifer.
- Advance Booking: No more stress of finding a free spot.
- Detailed Information: Photos and availability for each area.
- Quality of Areas: High standards for optimal comfort.
- Pricing: A premium service that comes at a cost.
Our Verdict on Camping Car Park
Camping Car Park has transformed our travels. It’s the little luxury that makes all the difference. Yes, it’s an investment, but for peace of mind, it’s worth it.
Apps to Find Mobile Network
A special section for those like us who work while traveling, because yes, it’s essential to have a good internet connection. And depending on the country, the app to use for an optimal experience isn’t always the same.
Mobile Network France • Optimize Your Connection in France
Download: Android •💰 Free
Working online while exploring France with Edouard, it’s a dream, right? But for that dream not to turn into a nightmare, a stable internet connection is essential. Even if you’re equipped with the best gear to have internet in vanlife, sometimes you need to know the location of nearby mobile network antennas.
And that’s where this app comes in. It gives you access to a comprehensive database of antennas, sorted by operator, with a wealth of information for each of them. It’s a valuable tool that we’ve only found in France, and it’s become a must-have for us.
- Comprehensive Database: All antennas at your fingertips for optimal connection.
- Detailed Information: Everything you need to know about each antenna to choose the best one.
- Limitation: Unfortunately, this gem is only available for Android.
Our Verdict on Mobile Network France
This app is our lifeline during our stays in France. It guarantees us a stable connection, which is essential for our online work. It’s a pity it’s not available for all Android smartphones and not for iPhone!
nPerf • The Tool to Stay Connected Internationally
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
This app is the international version of our favorite French app mentioned earlier, but with a slight difference: in our opinion, it’s a bit less accurate. It provides an overview of mobile operator antennas worldwide. It’s fantastic, but it lacks details like signal range. We learned this the hard way during our stay on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, where despite a “good coverage” displayed, our connection was less than ideal.
- Global Coverage: Wherever you are, nPerf provides an overview of nearby antennas.
- Availability: Available on both Android and iPhone.
- Accuracy: It doesn’t always match up to local apps in terms of precision.
Our Verdict on NPerf
nPerf is our go-to during our international travels. It gives us a general idea of network coverage. However, for unmatched accuracy, we often rely on local apps.
Open Signal • The Essential Tool for Connected Nomads
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
This app is a lifesaver for those of us who rely on a stable connection while on the move.
Who hasn’t experienced the frustration of finding the perfect parking spot or campsite, only to discover that the internet connection is non-existent? Thanks to Open Signal, those disappointments are now a thing of the past. The app allows you to test the speed and coverage of the network in the area you plan to travel to. It relies on real user feedback to provide you with statistics on download speeds, upload speeds, and network responsiveness.
Of course, like any app, it’s not always 100% accurate. However, as their network grows, it’s becoming increasingly reliable.
- Forethought: Test network coverage before arriving at your destination.
- Real Experiences: Reports based on user feedback for better reliability.
- Free: A powerful tool at no cost.
- Accuracy: While improving, the app isn’t always entirely accurate.
Our Verdict on Open Signal
Open Signal has become an indispensable app for us. It saves us from many disappointments and ensures we always stay connected, wherever we are with Edouard.
Everyday Apps for Road-tripping
For daily life on the road, certain apps can be incredibly useful. Whether it’s for energy, internet, or just general convenience, here’s a list of apps that we find invaluable almost every day.
Level YesCapa • Stay Level!
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
When living on the road with Edouard, every detail matters. Among these details, ensuring our vehicle is level is crucial. Why? To guarantee optimal drainage of our wastewater and to ensure our sink and shower function optimally.
That’s where the Level YesCapa app comes into play. Developed by the Yescapa teams, this app uses (at least, we think it does) your phone’s gyroscope function to help you position yourself perfectly at every stop on your journey.
- Accuracy: An app that guides you with precision to level up.
- Design: A pleasant and intuitive interface.
- Free: An essential tool without any additional cost.
- Versatility: A quick and effective solution in the absence of a traditional bubble level.
- Comparison: While handy, can it truly replace a traditional bubble level?
Our Verdict on Level YesCapa
Level YesCapa can sometimes be a lifesaver. It offers us unmatched precision during our stops. However, we always wonder if it can truly compete with a good old-fashioned bubble level.
Calisthenics Parks • The Ally for Athletic Vanlifers
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
For us, sports is more than just an activity: it’s a way of life. Even on the road with Edouard, we make no compromises on our physical well-being. Between kettlebells, dumbbells, and other equipment we’ve carefully chosen for our journey, we’re always ready for an intense workout session.
However, nothing beats a good outdoor spot to mix things up. That’s where Calisthenics Parks comes in handy. This app reveals the best street workout spots nearby, allowing us to take advantage of outdoor facilities to optimize our sessions.
- Finding the Perfect Spot: Training zones at our fingertips, wherever we are.
- Attractive Design: A clear and pleasant interface to use.
- Free: A treasure trove of information without spending a dime.
- Getting Moving: The app makes it easy, but you still need that little motivation to put on your sneakers and get out!
Our Verdict on Calisthenics Parks
Calisthenics Parks is essential for us. It perfectly complements our sports equipment and offers us new training opportunities at every stop.
MyLPG.eu • The Must-Have for LPG Enthusiasts
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
While the scenery constantly changes, one thing remains constant: our need for LPG to cook, heat, and have hot water. That’s why we opted for LPG, a much more economical solution in the long run. However, finding a station that offers LPG can sometimes feel like a real treasure hunt.
Thankfully, MyLPG.eu is here to save the day. This app points us to gas stations offering LPG, and as a cherry on top, it even provides us with the latest updated price. It’s a real breeze!
- LPG Station Locator: No more wandering around to find LPG.
- Price Updates: To always refuel at the best rate.
- Design Needs Improvement: The app could be more visually appealing.
Our Verdict on MyGPL.eu
MyLPG.eu has become our ally on the road. It makes our life easier and allows us to save money. We just hope for a little graphic update in the future!
Sun Location • Finding the Sun, Even When It’s Hidden!
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
Living the vanlife with Edouard also means adapting and making the most out of nature. When it comes to energy, the sun is our best ally. Especially in winter, when the sun plays hide and seek and stays low on the horizon. Thankfully, our solar panels are tiltable. To optimally position them, we use Sun Location. This app shows us the exact trajectory of the sun, allowing us to maximize our energy capture.
But that’s not all! It’s also useful for positioning our camper to prevent the sun from directly hitting the fridge vents or to maximize natural light through our windows.
- Energy Optimization: Maximize solar energy capture with precise sun trajectory information.
- Versatility: Perfect for positioning your vehicle based on your solar needs.
- Advertisements: They can be a bit annoying, but for such a useful app, it’s a minor inconvenience.
Our Verdict on Sun Location
Sun Location helps us make the most of our solar setup and live in a more eco-friendly and autonomous way on the road.
Mondly: Your Linguistic Companion on the Road
Traveling through different countries means discovering new cultures, new landscapes… and new languages. That’s where Mondly comes in. This app is a true gem for anyone looking to learn a language before even setting foot in a new country. Its pedagogical approach, with gradual progression, makes learning both fun and effective. We were so impressed that we even wrote a full article about our experience with Mondly.
Learning a few key words or phrases in a language can make all the difference. It has saved us on multiple occasions, allowing us to navigate tricky situations or forge deeper connections with locals. It’s amazing how a simple “thank you” or “please” in the local language can open so many doors and hearts.
- Intuitive Handling: The interface is both beautiful and user-friendly.
- Pedagogical Approach: Learning is progressive, making the process enjoyable and effective.
- Linguistic Variety: The Portuguese taught is Brazilian Portuguese, which might not suit everyone.
Our Verdict on Mondly
Mondly is more than just a language learning app. It’s a tool that has allowed us to immerse ourselves deeper into the cultures we explore. Each new phrase learned is a door opened to new adventures and encounters.
Windy • A Brilliant Weather Assistant
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free and Paid
Living as a nomad means embracing the unexpected. But if there’s one thing we like to anticipate, it’s the weather. As settled folks, we might casually glance at the weather now and then. But on the road, it becomes a true compass. Windy has become our go-to app for this. It provides a wealth of weather information, from rainfall to thunderstorms, fires, humidity levels, and even pollution.
Thanks to Windy, we’ve been able to avoid many adverse weather conditions, sometimes altering our route to enjoy more favorable weather. And the interface? It’s simply stunning. Each map is a visual masterpiece, making checking the weather forecast almost enjoyable. Plus, the app is cross-platform, meaning we can check it on our computer, tablet, or phone, depending on our needs.
- Accuracy: Windy far surpasses the basic weather apps on our phones.
- Multi-functional: From rain to thunderstorms, to pollution, everything is covered.
- Cross-platform: Available on computer, tablet, and phone for maximum flexibility.
- None in our eyes: The app is simply perfect for our needs.
Our Verdict on Windy.com
Windy is more than just a weather app. The significance of this factor is incredible when being a nomad, allowing you to follow sunny and pleasant places daily. (or not!)
Victron Connect • Energy Management at Your Fingertips
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
To best manage our consumption, we rely on Victron Connect. This app has become an indispensable tool for monitoring and managing our electrical setup, especially when the BMV displays incorrect data. Thanks to Victron Connect, we can remotely shut off our setup during the night, thus optimizing our electricity consumption.
Moreover, it provides a detailed overview of our energy production over the past 30 days, along with many other relevant data points. It’s a true energy dashboard that helps us live in a more self-sufficient and eco-friendly way.
- Remote Control: The ability to manage our electrical setup from anywhere is a real advantage.
- Detailed Tracking: The app offers a comprehensive view of our energy consumption and production, allowing us to adjust our habits accordingly.
- Learning Curve: Like any technical app, it requires some time to master all its features.
Our Verdict on Victron Connect
Victron Connect is the heart of our energy system. It gives us peace of mind, knowing we’re using our energy in the most efficient way possible.
Ecoflow • Optimal Management of Our Portable Batteries
Download: Android – Iphone •💰 Free
The Ecoflow battery app has become an essential pillar of our energy management. It gives us full control over our portable batteries, the Delta Mini and the Delta 2. If only it could also move them remotely, it would be perfect (lol)!
But, jokes aside, this app allows us to regulate the charging power, know the remaining battery time, rename our devices, and even connect them to the network. It’s a true technological masterpiece that makes our energy experience smooth and intuitive.
- Versatility: The app offers a multitude of features for optimal management of our batteries.
- Aesthetics: Its design is simply sublime, making its use pleasant.
- None in our view: It perfectly meets our needs.
Our Verdict on Ecoflow App
The Ecoflow app is the perfect complement to our portable batteries. It enriches our experience and makes the Ecoflow ecosystem incredibly well-thought-out. Moreover, for those who are curious, our website is full of tests, reviews, and information about the Ecoflow brand. We are truly won over by their vision and innovation.
Conclusion: Essential Apps for Vanlife
After traveling the roads of Europe with Edouard, our trusty camper van, we’ve compiled a list of apps that have become indispensable during our road trips. While this list is comprehensive for now, it’s bound to evolve. Perhaps we’ll add apps dedicated to entertainment, even though vanlife itself is an endless source of adventures and discoveries.
Every traveler, every nomad has their own vision of life and travel. That’s why favorite apps will vary from one individual to another. If you’re looking for more recommendations, I suggest checking out the Vanlife app list proposed by “Objective Life in Van”, which was a significant inspiration for this article.
Optimize your vanlife experience with the right apps and dive into the adventure! And remember, the journey is just as important as the destination.
