For van lifers, the open road is our home, and every new destination brings a fresh sense of excitement. Yet, one of the biggest challenges we face is finding safe, reliable, and convenient parking spots for our homes on wheels. Thankfully, there are plenty of apps that can make this task easier.
We’ve compiled the most helpful apps to help you find parking for your van or RV.
1. IOverlander
- Pricing: free
- What reviews are saying: Users appreciate the detailed information and community updates. However, some report that data accuracy can vary by region.
IOverlander is a community-driven app that helps travelers find camping spots, dump stations, and other useful locations. Users contribute to the database by adding new spots and providing updates on existing ones.
The app covers a wide range of locations worldwide, making it a reliable resource for those who travel extensively. It includes detailed information about each spot, such as amenities, fees, and GPS coordinates, which helps users make informed decisions about where to park their built out vans.
IOverlander is easily the most used parking app in Van Life, which means you’ll have a ton of user reviews and knowledge bombs on the app, along with any info the directory system has. This is our go-to van life parking app.
2. The Dyrt
- Pricing: Free basic version. Pro version costs $35.99/year.
- Reviews: The Dyrt is praised for its comprehensive listings and user-friendly interface. Some users find the Pro version features particularly useful for remote areas.
The Dyrt has extensive listings of campgrounds and RV parks. It includes user reviews, photos, and tips to help you find the perfect spot. The app is user-friendly, allowing users to search for campsites based on various criteria such as location, amenities, and user ratings.
The Dyrt Pro version offers additional features, including offline access, discounts, and trip planning tools, which can be particularly useful for those traveling in remote areas without reliable internet access.
3. Sēkr
- Pricing: Free
- Reviews: Users enjoy the community aspect and the focus on unique camping experiences. Some mention that the app’s database is still growing.
Sēkr connects travelers with campsites and unique outdoor experiences. It offers maps, campsite details, and community interaction. The app also provides information on nearby amenities such as restrooms, water sources, and hiking trails. Sēkr encourages community engagement, allowing users to share their experiences and tips, which enhances the overall user experience.
4. Campendium
- Pricing: Free basic version. Premium membership is $20/year.
- Reviews: Users appreciate the detailed reviews and cell signal information. The app is known for its reliable and user-generated content.
Campendium is a huge directory of campgrounds, RV parks, and free camping spots. It includes user reviews, photos, and cell signal information, which is particularly useful for those who need to stay connected while on the road. Campendium’s detailed search filters help users find campsites that meet their specific needs, whether they’re looking for amenities, scenic views, or pet-friendly locations.
5. Allstays
- Pricing: The app costs $9.99. The website offers subscription options starting at $32/year.
- Reviews: Users find Allstays to be detailed and reliable. The one-time app purchase price is considered a good investment for frequent travelers.
Allstays is a comprehensive database of campgrounds, RV parks, rest areas, and truck stops. It has useful info into alternative parking spaces such as Walmarts and casinos. It is available as a website and a mobile app. The app includes detailed information on each location, such as amenities, policies, and nearby attractions. Allstays is particularly useful for planning long road trips, as it helps users find convenient places to stop along their route.
6. Boondockers Welcome
- Pricing: $50/year.
- Reviews: Users love the hospitality and unique experiences. Some note the value of meeting new people and staying in safe, welcoming environments.
Boondockers Welcome connects RVers with hosts offering free overnight parking on private property. It promotes a community-driven approach to finding parking, allowing travelers to stay with locals who provide safe and welcoming spots. This app not only offers a place to park but also an opportunity to meet new people and learn about local areas from residents.
7. StayFree
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- Pricing: StayFree is free to use.
- Reviews: Users appreciate the offline maps and the community-driven content. The app is praised for its simplicity and effectiveness.
StayFree helps van lifers find camping sites and parking spots. It includes features like offline maps and community reviews, which are useful for finding spots in remote areas. The app’s user interface is straightforward, making it easy to search for and save favorite locations.
8. Google Maps
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- Pricing: Free
- Reviews: Users appreciate its versatility, comprehensive data, and reliability.
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Did you know you can find overnight parking on Google Maps? Use satellite view and street view to scout potential spots before pulling up. Check for nearby amenities and reviews from fellow van lifers.
The trucking community uses Google maps to find rest areas, parking lots, and other suitable spots for overnight parking. Its comprehensive data and real-time updates make it a valuable resource for van lifers!
9. Freecampsites.Net
- Pricing: Free
- Reviews: Users find it invaluable for budget-friendly camping. The community contributions help ensure the accuracy of listings.
Freecampsites.Net is a database of free camping spots across North America. It includes user reviews and tips, helping travelers find budget-friendly places to stay. The website’s simple design makes it easy to search for campsites based on location and amenities.
10. Parkopedia
- Pricing: Free basic version. Premium features available with a subscription.
- Reviews: Users appreciate the extensive coverage and detailed information. Some find the premium features worth the cost for frequent urban parking.
Parkopedia is a parking space finder, including overnight options. It covers urban areas, making it useful for city stays. The app includes detailed information on parking fees, restrictions, and hours of operation, helping users find suitable parking options quickly. It also allows you to search by hour and reserve ahead of time.
11. SpotAngels
- Pricing: Free
- Reviews: Users like the real-time updates and reminders. The app is noted for its accuracy and ease of use.
SpotAngels offers real-time parking information and reminders. It covers various types of parking, including overnight options. The app’s community-driven data helps users find free and low-cost parking spots, and it sends alerts to avoid parking tickets.
12. Harvest Hosts
- Pricing: Membership costs $99/year.
- Reviews: Users enjoy the unique and picturesque locations. The app is praised for adding value to travel experiences.
Harvest Hosts connects RVers with hosts at wineries, farms, and attractions offering overnight stays. It provides unique and scenic locations, enhancing the travel experience by offering more than just a parking spot.
13. RVparky
- Pricing: RVparky is free to use.
- Reviews: Users appreciate the comprehensive listings and user-friendly interface. The app’s accuracy and reliability are frequently mentioned.
RVparky is a database of RV parks, campgrounds, rest areas, and more. It includes reviews, photos, and amenities information, making it easier to find suitable spots for overnight stays.
14. Freeroam
- Pricing: Free
- Reviews: Users appreciate the detailed filters and community contributions. The app is praised for its user-friendly interface and the ability to find less crowded, off-the-beaten-path camping spots. Some users have noted that it is particularly helpful for finding boondocking locations and that the community feedback is reliable and up-to-date.
Freeroam is a comprehensive app designed for RV and van life enthusiasts. It offers a wide range of features to help you find free camping spots, RV parks, and public lands. The app includes a map with filters for various amenities such as cell signal strength, safety, and access to water. Users can also contribute reviews and photos, making it a community-driven resource.
Tips for Finding Overnight Parking
Finding overnight parking involves planning and using multiple resources. In our experience, you may have to use a combination of these apps, because not every app will show every parking spot, and some have more listings in certain regions.
Some other recommendations:
- Check RV forums and Facebook groups
- Read local parking rules & regulations
- Take advantage of public lands
Guide Your Journey With Geotrek Vans
Using apps to navigate the logistics of van life can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. At Geotrek Vans in Boulder, Colorado, we not only create and sell conversion campervans, but write guides like this one to help you make the most of van life.
Visit Geotrek Vans to explore our services and start your journey with confidence.