The Ultimate Guide to RV Trip Planning & How ChatGPT Can Simplify the Process

The Ultimate Guide to RV Trip Planning & How ChatGPT Can Simplify the Process
How to plan an RV adventure, plus tips and tools to make it easier. 

By: Morgan Field

I'm Morgan Field, a part-time van-lifer with a full-time passion for adventure, traveling in my 2019 Winnebago Travato 59K with my fluffy co-pilot, Teddy. While we're technically based in central Florida, let's be real—home is wherever the wheels take us. Whether I'm discovering hidden gems, checking out vegan restaurants, or kayaking through wild landscapes, I love crafting unforgettable journeys. And with the help of a few key apps (including some AI help from ChatGPT), trip planning has never been easier.

This guide will help you get started on planning your next RV trip and offer some tips for making it simpler by using ChatGPT and other go-to tools and apps. 

Why Use ChatGPT for RV Trip Planning? 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a hot topic in recent years—sometimes even a bit controversial! But when it comes to planning your next RV trip, ChatGPT can be a total game-changer. This AI-powered tool acts as a conversational assistant, generating responses based on publicly available information on the internet. Unlike a traditional search engine that requires sifting through multiple websites, ChatGPT aggregates details into one seamless conversation, saving you time and effort. You can ask follow-up questions, refine your queries, and get tailored recommendations for campground options, route suggestions, fun stops, and more—all without jumping between different sources.

And the best part? It’s completely free and doesn’t require any sign-up! Just go to chatgpt.com, type in your question or request, and get instant results. Since ChatGPT pulls from public sources, there can sometimes be errors in the replies you receive, so be sure to double-check key details as needed—just as you would when reading a blog post or any other non-verified resource.

Paired with apps like Roadtrippers, RV Trip Wizard, Atlas Obscura, Campendium, Hipcamp and Harvest Hosts, etc. ChatGPT turns trip planning into a fun adventure of its own. If you are interested in trying it out, here’s how you can use ChatGPT to craft your next RV trip itinerary:

✅ Map your route based on drive time, miles per day, and desired stops.
✅ Assist with meal planning, grocery lists, and budgeting.
✅ Recommend campgrounds, free overnight parking, and unique stays.
✅ Help you locate dump stations, provide information on weather and road closures, etc.
✅ Suggest unique places to visit based on your interests (waterfalls, hiking/biking trails, historic sites, etc.).

*Note: Before getting started with ChatGPT be sure to read about its limitations listed at the end of this article. It is a great way to help you get started with trip planning, but it may not always be completely accurate so double-checking any important information is key.

How to Plan an RV Trip & Tips for Simplifying the Process

To start planning your perfect trip, begin by defining what matters most to you—and the checklist below will help guide the way! If you want to start using ChatGPT for trip planning, don't forget to save all of the prompts below—simply copy and paste them into your notes or print this out before your next adventure. Be sure to read to the end of the article to learn more about other go-to apps for RV trip planning.

Step 1: Define Your Driving Preferences

Before hitting the road, decide how much driving per day feels good to you. Some RVers are all about getting to the destination fast, while others prefer to enjoy the journey with scenic stops along the way. 

✅ How many hours per day do you want to drive?
✅ How many miles per day feels ideal?
✅ Are you destination-focused (quickest route) or want to enjoy the journey (cool stops along the way)?
✅ Do you want to avoid highways or toll roads?
✅ How often do you need to stop for breaks for yourself, kids, and/or pets?

Try this Prompt in ChatGPT:

“Help me plan an RV trip itinerary from [Starting Point] to [Destination].  I want to drive approximately [___] miles per day and prefer [fastest route / scenic route]. I would like to stop at a [rest stop, playground, dog-friendly area, etc.] every [___] miles. Please outline a route.”

Go-to apps for mapping your route: Roadtrippers and RV Trip Wizard

If you are traveling with a dog, be sure to read my guide for RVing with dogs!

Step 2: Plan Your Must-See Stops & Attractions

Finding the perfect stops along your route can make your trip unforgettable. ChatGPT and apps like Atlas Obscura can help you discover hidden gems!

✅ What types of stops excite you? (Waterfalls, caves, historical sites, quirky roadside attractions, etc.)
✅ How far off-route are you willing to drive for a stop? (Max miles/minutes)
✅ Do you want dog-friendly locations?
✅ Do you prefer quiet nature spots or bustling city experiences?

Try this Prompt in ChatGPT: 

"I’m driving from [City A] to [City B] and love [hiking/waterfalls/vegan food]. Can you suggest cool stops within [__] miles of my route [specify which route you are taking, if you have a preference]?"

*Pro Tip: If something seems off or incorrect when using ChatGPT, simply redirect and ask follow-up questions. Remember, this is a tool built for interactive conversation. For example, if ChatGPT suggests a restaurant in the wrong town (it’s rare, but it happens), just request more options or clarify your request.

Go-to apps for planning stops: Roadtrippers and Atlas Obscura

Step 3: Plan Your Meals & Grocery Stops

Eating well on the road requires a bit of planning, especially if you have dietary preferences. ChatGPT can help you create meal plans, grocery lists, and even budget-friendly ideas!

✅ What meals do you want to prep? (Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
✅ Do you need easy-to-make meals for boondocking?
✅ What’s your grocery budget?
✅ Will you be near grocery stores, or do you need to stock up in advance?

Try this Prompt in ChatGPT: 

"I need a meal plan for a [number of days] RV trip with [specific dietary needs and desires]. I want meals that are easy to cook and require minimal ingredients. I am traveling [insert if you are solo or how many people are traveling with you.] Can you create a grocery list and meal plan for me?"

Here is a sample of a prompt I like to use (note: try to be as specific as possible!): “Help me create a 3-day meal plan (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) that is vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nutrient-dense—500 calories or less per meal—and low-maintenance. Meals should use overlapping ingredients to optimize groceries and stay budget-friendly. I have a propane stovetop, an Instant Pot, a convection oven setting on my microwave, a mini fridge (no freezer space), and limited storage. Create a grocery list for my meals, including a breakdown of each recipe, step-by-step instructions, and a list of required utensils and equipment.”

Go-to apps for meal planning: Mealime and AnyList. (I also love using Instagram’s search function to find new recipe ideas.)

Read more van lifer tips for managing meals on the road.

Of course, if you prefer to dine out or pick up take out, you can use ChatGPT to suggest options that fit your preferences along your route as well!

Step 4: Choose Where to Sleep Each Night

There are so many options for overnight stays! Whether you prefer campgrounds, free parking spots, or unique stays, planning ahead will make your trip smoother.

✅ Do you prefer campgrounds, free parking (Walmart, Cracker Barrel), or unique stays (Harvest Hosts, Hipcamp)?
✅ How far off-route are you willing to drive for a good stay?
✅ How often will you need to dump and refill water?

Try this Prompt in ChatGPT: 

"I’m driving from [City A] to [City B] in an RV. I prefer staying at [insert your preference. For example: campgrounds/boondocking spots/unique stays]. Suggest places to sleep each night that are [___] miles at max from the route [or from a dump station, etc.]. Find a place for each night, with driving [___] miles per day."

Here is a sample of a prompt I like to use: “I am driving from Ocala, FL, to Asheville, NC, and I would like to stop for the night after approximately 260 miles per day. For the first night I would like to stay at a high-rated Cracker Barrel and for the second night I would like to stay at a unique and fun Hipcamp or Harvest Host with 30 amp electric, and a sewer/dump, so I can dump before I arrive. Please give me ideas accordingly.”

Go-to apps for planning where to camp overnight: RV Parky, Hipcamp, and Harvest Hosts.

Final Step: Bring It All Together with Essential RVer Apps 

Now that you’ve mapped out your ideal driving time, must-see stops, meals, and sleeping spots, you can use some of the go-to apps in the list below to plot out your route, book your campsites, and help keep all of your trip details organized. 

While ChatGPT is fantastic for brainstorming and itinerary planning, it’s important to pair it with reliable travel apps for real-time navigation, campground availability, weather alerts, and up-to-date business hours. Most of the apps below offer both free and paid versions, so you can choose what works best for your needs. 

Organizational Tip: Create a folder on your phone called “Travel Apps” to keep all your essential RV and road trip apps in one easy-to-access place. 

1. Roadtrippers – Best for Scenic Routes & Attractions

Roadtrippers helps you plan and map your route while discovering cool roadside attractions, national parks, and unique destinations along the way.

Best Features:
✅Suggests quirky stops and scenic detours
✅ Filters for food, parks, historical sites, and more
✅ Syncs across devices for easy trip access

Download it at Roadtrippers.com or from your app store by searching “Roadtrippers - Trip Planner.”

2. RV Life Trip Wizard – Best for RV-Specific Navigation

Avoids low-clearance bridges, tight roads, and weight-restricted routes, making it perfect for larger rigs.

Best Features:
✅ Finds campgrounds with real user reviews
✅ Visual trip planner
✅ Estimates fuel costs and finds gas stations
✅ Offers RV-safe GPS routing
✅ Customizes routes to your RV’s size, height, length, width, etc.

Download it at RVTripWizard.com or from your app store by searching “RV Life - RV GPS & Campgrounds.”

Note: GoLife Perks members receive a discount on RV Life Trip Wizard and the entire RV Life Pro trip planning suite. Learn more.

3. RV Parky – Best for Finding Overnight Parking

A free app that shows rest stops, campgrounds, Walmart parking, and RV-friendly locations for overnight stays.

Best Features:
✅ Displays icons and allows filtering based on amenities like Wi-Fi, pet-friendly options, showers, overnight parking, hookups, water, electric, amp, sewer, and more
✅ User reviews help you choose safe locations

Download it at RVParky.com or from your app store by searching “RV Parky - Parks & Campgrounds.”

4. Atlas Obscura – Best for Hidden Gems & Unique Stops

If you love discovering off-the-beaten-path experiences, Atlas Obscura highlights weird and wonderful locations.

Best Features:
✅ Lists odd, historic, and cultural sites
✅ Crowd-sourced reviews and photos
✅ Works well alongside Roadtrippers

Download it at AtlasObscura.com or from your app store by searching “Atlas Obscura Travel Guide.”

5. Hipcamp & Harvest Hosts – Best for Unique Overnight Stays

These apps connect RVers to private campgrounds, farms, wineries, and breweries that offer overnight stays.

Best Features:
✅ Hipcamp: Find off-grid camping on private land
✅ Harvest Hosts: Stay at farms and wineries in exchange for supporting local businesses
✅ More unique and scenic than traditional RV parks

Learn more about Hipcamp at Hipcamp.com or download it from your app store by searching “Hipcamp: Camping, RVs, & Cabins.” 

Learn more about Harvest Hosts at HarvestHosts.com or download it from your app store by searching “Harvest Hosts - RV Camping.”

Note: GoLife Perks members receive a discount on Harvest Hosts membership. Learn more.

6. Apps for Finding RV Dump Stations

While known for campsites, Campendium also shows nearby dump stations. (Go to Campendium.com or download it from your app store by searching “Campendium - RV & Tent Camping.”) 

RV Parky offers a map with filterable search to find nearby dump stations. (Go to RVParky.com or download it from your app store by searching “RV Parky - Parks & Campgrounds.”)

7. Apps for Fueling Up for the Road

Use GasBuddy to find the best gas prices on your route and save money. (Go to GasBuddy.com or download it from your app store by searching “Gas Buddy: Find & Pay for Gas.”)

TruckMap helps you locate truck-friendly fueling stations and rest stops with RV access. (Go to TruckMap.com or download it from your app store by searching “TruckMap - Truck GPS Routes.”)

See more fuel-saving apps and tips for RVers.

8. RV Park & Campsite Booking Apps

ReserveAmerica is used to book campsites and RV parks at state and national parks. (Go to ReserveAmerica.com or download it from your app store by searching “RV Camping.”)

KOA is a well-known and large campground network, you can book a stay at one of the thousands of KOA campgrounds across the country using their website or app. (Go to KOA.com or download it from your app store by searching “KOA | RV, Cabin & Tent Camping.”)

Note: GoLife Perks members receive a free KOA Rewards membership! Learn more.

ParkAdvisor provides user-generated reviews and ratings of RV parks and campgrounds. (Go to ParkAdvisor.com or download it from your app store by searching “Parkadvisor.")

9. Other Helpful Apps for RVers

Google Maps: Offers up-to-date traffic information, turn-by-turn navigation, and route options. Helps you avoid heavy traffic and find alternative routes.

The Weather Channel: Provides accurate weather forecasts, radar, and severe weather alerts. Features hourly, daily, and 10-day forecasts to help you plan your trip.

AccuWeather: Offers real-time forecasts and weather alerts for any location. Provides minute-by-minute precipitation tracking to avoid stormy weather.

Limitations of ChatGPT & How to Double-Check Information

While ChatGPT is a great tool for trip ideas and planning, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• It doesn’t have real-time data. Business hours, road closures, and campground availability can change, so always verify information with official sources before heading out. Also be sure to call ahead before visiting attractions, campgrounds, or restaurants to ensure they are open and still offer the services you’re looking for.
• It can’t make reservations. Use apps like Hipcamp, Harvest Hosts, and RV Trip Wizard or call ahead to book your stays.
• It might pull outdated info. Always cross-check locations, fuel prices, and attractions with Google Maps or official websites.
• It doesn’t account for RV-friendly routes. ChatGPT doesn’t provide clearance heights, weight restrictions, or low bridge warnings—especially important for mountain passes and small towns with tight roads. To ensure safe and RV-friendly routing, use apps like RV Trip Wizard, CoPilot GPS, or the RV Life app, which consider your specific RV’s height, weight, and length. 
• Specificity is key. The clearer your request, the better the suggestions. Instead of “plan my road trip,” specify your RV type, speed, miles per day, and must-see stops for more tailored recommendations. And if you don't like the reply, you can ask for something else, for example: "Please provide three more suggestions for campgrounds at [destination]."

Note: If you prefer for an app to do the AI research for you, AdventureGenie is an AI-powered tool for RV trip planning. Plus, GoLife Perks members receive a discount! Learn more.

Final Thoughts on Planning the Ultimate RV Adventure 

Whether you’re planning your first RV trip or your hundredth, ChatGPT and these essential apps make the journey easier, more enjoyable, and tailored to your travel style. With AI-powered brainstorming and real-time apps and tools, you’ll have everything you need for a smooth, fun, and unforgettable adventure.

🚐 Ready to start planning? Try the prompts, download the apps, and hit the road with confidence! Happy travels! 🌍✨

I hope your journey is filled with epic views, new experiences, and moments that light you up. From one road warrior (and her fluffy co-pilot) to another—see you out there! 
-Morgan & Teddy (follow along @themorganfield on Instagram or on Facebook)