Whether you’re about to start out on a trip or return from one, or you are at your destination and need to know what the conditions will be like that day, weather apps are at your fingertips. And with weather tracking technology consistently being improved, you can more confidently believe the forecast that predicts rain will actually produce rain.

Smartphones have become an essential device for campers. It’s today’s multi-purpose tool, and helping keep track of the weather is just one of the things it can do.  Here’s our list of apps, most are available for both Android and iOS, for the weather-conscious RVer. It might be better to have more than one on your phone.

  • Drive Weather tops the list for RVers as it it provides weather conditions along a planned route, as well as seven days out.
  • Accuweather provides current temperatures and conditions quickly and right up front. Warnings and advisories are posted in an obvious place, right at the top of the screen. Accuweather also has MinuteCast, which provides a look at what’s to come over the next two hours. Some say it’s the best app for live tracking.
  • Weather Underground (iOS only) is available for free or for $2.00 annually (removes ads) and uses crowd-sourced weather measurements and live readings from 40,000 weather stations around the world. The interface has a lot going on – map, temperature, wind, precipitation, and daily and hourly forecasts.
  • The Weather Channel is one of the most well-known and should be mentioned. It provides all you need to know, including a current and future radar.
  • WeatherBug has fast, GPS localized travel alerts and location forecasts. There are even live camera views and an interactive map.
  • Weather  apps specific to each operating system can provide simple but descriptive forecasts, providing hourly views, humidity, temperature, UV index, and other data types.

A Few Quick Outdoor Tips

Michigan weather can change quickly, even with useful technology at our disposal to let us know what we could expect ahead of time. If you’re out and about, keep these things in mind:

  • Layer your clothing. In every season in Michigan, the day can start cold, get relatively warm, then get chilly again. It’s best to choose layering clothing that can be added or removed easily as you need them.
  • Warm weather doesn’t always mean shorts or tank tops. Bugs abound in the warmer months, and plants can grow in a frenzy. Protect your legs and arms from bites, scratches, and contact rashes by making sure they are covered with lightweight, breathable fabric if you’re planning on embarking on a wilderness activity.
  • Always bring water. Better yet, have it in a reusable bottle. It doesn’t matter how warm or cold it is,  water is essential for preventing dehydration and keeping your body nourished. If you are out as a family, each member can be responsible for carrying his or her own. If you have a pet, bring an extra and a collapsible bowl; avoid allowing your pet to drink from any natural water sources you encounter.
  • Tell someone your plans. If part of your group is going off, then make sure you know where they are going and when they expect to be back. If everyone is leaving the RV, write a note of your plans and leave it on the counter, or leave it with the staff or a trustworthy neighbor.
  • Don’t risk it. If the forecast relays poor weather or bad conditions, then reconsider your plans – whether you’re going to be driving or you’re going to be enjoying the outdoors. Don’t try to beat the weather, or feel that you need to get somewhere in a hurry or because you have an itinerary you want to meet. Weather still has its unpredictable aspects. If you have the time, consider all the options to make the safest decision. If bad weather is imminent, such as strong thunderstorms, high winds, or tornado watches, then you should already have a plan in place about what to do for yourself, your fellow campers, and your RV.