Smartphones have become an essential tool for many aspects of our lives but with an array of mobile apps available, it can be overwhelming to determine which ones are truly beneficial for drivers. To help you navigate the world of apps, we've reviewed and compiled a list of the top five apps that cover categories such as navigation, safety, and vehicle maintenance.
While these apps are designed to enhance the driving experience, using electronic devices that take your attention away from the road is illegal in British Columbia. Fully licensed drivers can use hands-free devices, but handheld devices cannot be used even while stopped at red lights or in slow-moving traffic. There is a zero-tolerance policy for class 7L and class 7N drivers – they can't use hands-free or handheld devices at all while driving. Always prioritize safe driving habits and pull over to a safe location before using your phone for any reason.
Waze: The Ultimate Navigation App
Waze takes a different approach to navigation compared to traditional GPS apps. Instead of relying solely on satellite data, Waze leverages the power of its vast user community. Waze users report traffic jams, accidents, and other road issues in real-time. This allows Waze to constantly adjust its routing to avoid delays and find the fastest route possible. This app also has an intuitive interface that provides clear turn-by-turn directions with spoken street names. With its focus on building a community of drivers, Waze allows drivers to send friendly waves to other drivers, and users can collect points and climb leaderboards for contributing to the community.
GasBuddy: Find the Cheapest Fuel Nearby
Gas prices can fluctuate wildly, and finding the best deal can save drivers a considerable amount of money. GasBuddy is a free app designed to find the cheapest gas nearby, saving money on every fill-up. This app boasts a vast network of users who report gas prices at stations in real-time, ensuring access to current pricing. Prices can easily be compared between nearby stations and filtered based on fuel type, brand preference, or even amenities offered by each gas station. GasBuddy can also track fuel usage, monitoring fuel efficiency and identifying areas for improvement, with some versions of the app even offering rewards programs where users can earn points towards savings or win prizes.
Roadtrippers: The Perfect Road Trip Co-Pilot
Roadtrippers is an app designed to elevate any trip into an unforgettable experience. This trip-planning tool goes beyond just navigation, offering features to help discover hidden gems, craft personalized itineraries, and navigate seamlessly. Before drivers hit the road or while on their journey, Roadtrippers allows for tailoring the itinerary, adding specific stops and attractions that pique interest. This ensures must-see locations aren’t missed and every trip is perfectly structured. It's also available as a browser-friendly website, allowing you to plan your trip in advance from the comfort of your computer. Roadtrippers caters to RV travelers as well, offering features specifically tailored to their needs. RV travelers can find campgrounds with hookups, routes with high clearance, and points of interest with designated RV parking!
MileIQ: Simplify Mileage Tracking
Whether drivers need to track mileage for work or leisure, it can be a time-consuming and cumbersome process! MileIQ is a mileage-tracking app that automatically detects when drivers are on the move, and the app records mileage for each trip. The app has the option to categorize trips as personal or business, and generates detailed reports. With MileIQ, drivers can effortlessly track and accurately log mileage, simplifying the process for tax deductions or expense reimbursements.
FIXD: Vehicle Maintenance Made Easy
FIXD aims to take the mystery out of car maintenance by acting as your personal mechanic app. By using a plug-in adapter, the app translates check engine light codes into plain English, explaining the potential issue and its severity, empowering drivers to make informed decisions about repairs and avoid unnecessary stress. Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping any vehicle running smoothly and preventing costly breakdowns. The FIXD app acts as a digital sidekick, sending reminders for upcoming maintenance needs based on the vehicle's make, model, mileage and its in-app service tracker, helping users stay on top of oil changes, tire rotations, and other essential services. The app can display nearby repair shops with user reviews and ratings, allowing you to choose a trusted professional with confidence.
–
In this digital era, mobile apps are transforming the way we drive. Whether you need real-time traffic updates with Waze, budget-friendly gas stations with GasBuddy, or a suite of tools to keep you safe and informed, there's an app for that. Download these apps today and transform your driving experience!