Reliable navigation is essential for overlanding. When cell service disappears and you’re navigating unfamiliar backcountry roads, having the right GPS app with offline maps can mean the difference between an adventure and a misadventure. This guide compares the leading overlanding navigation apps to help you choose the right tool for your travels.
Why Standard Maps Apps Fall Short
Google Maps and Apple Maps are excellent for road trips, but they have critical limitations for overlanding:
- Limited offline capability: Small download areas, basic functionality offline
- Missing forest roads: Countless miles of driveable routes simply don’t appear
- No land ownership data: Can’t tell if you’re on public or private land
- Routing issues: May route you onto roads closed or unsuitable for your vehicle
- No trail information: No difficulty ratings or trail conditions
The Top Overlanding Navigation Apps
Gaia GPS
Gaia GPS has become the most popular choice among overlanders, offering extensive map layers and robust offline functionality.
Strengths:
- Map layers: 100+ sources including topo, satellite, National Forest, and user-created overlays
- Offline maps: Download entire regions with full functionality
- Track recording: Log your routes with detailed statistics
- Waypoint management: Organize points of interest by folder
- Cross-platform: Works on iOS, Android, and web
Weaknesses:
- Learning curve: Many features can be overwhelming initially
- Subscription required: Best features require Premium ($40/year)
- Battery usage: Can drain battery faster than competitors
Best for:
Serious overlanders who want maximum flexibility and detailed mapping across all terrain types.
Cost:
Free (limited), Premium $39.99/year, Premium+ with advanced features $79.99/year
onX Offroad
Originally built for hunting, onX has developed a dedicated offroad app that excels at land ownership data and trail discovery.
Strengths:
- Land ownership: Best-in-class public/private land boundary data
- Trail database: Curated trails with difficulty ratings
- Offline reliability: Excellent offline performance
- User interface: Clean, intuitive design
- Route building: Easy point-to-point route creation
Weaknesses:
- Map layer variety: Fewer options than Gaia GPS
- Subscription cost: Higher price point
- Trail coverage: Better in some regions than others
Best for:
Overlanders who prioritize knowing land boundaries and want curated trail recommendations.
Cost:
$29.99/year for single state, $99.99/year for all US states
Avenza Maps
Avenza takes a different approach, allowing you to import geo-referenced PDF maps from any source.
Strengths:
- Official maps: Use USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps exactly as published
- Free maps: Thousands of free maps available in their store
- Simplicity: Works like a paper map with your location overlaid
- Reliability: Rock-solid offline performance
- Accuracy: Official agency maps are authoritative
Weaknesses:
- No routing: Doesn’t provide directions or route calculation
- Manual downloads: Must find and download each map separately
- Limited features: Basic compared to Gaia or onX
Best for:
Overlanders who want official USFS maps and simple, reliable functionality.
Cost:
Free (3 maps), Plus $29.99/year (unlimited maps)
Other Notable Options
FreeRoam
- Focus: Finding dispersed camping and overlanding-specific POIs
- Best for: Camp spot discovery, community-contributed locations
- Cost: Free basic, $30/year premium
Hema Maps (Australia/International)
- Focus: Comprehensive Australian coverage, expanding internationally
- Best for: International overlanding, especially Australia
- Cost: Varies by region
Garmin Explore (with Garmin devices)
- Focus: Integration with Garmin hardware
- Best for: Those invested in Garmin ecosystem
- Cost: Free with Garmin device
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Gaia GPS | onX Offroad | Avenza |
|---|---|---|---|
| Offline Maps | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Map Variety | Best | Good | Varies |
| Land Ownership | Good | Best | Limited |
| Trail Database | Good | Best | None |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Easy | Easy |
| Annual Cost | $40-$80 | $30-$100 | Free-$30 |
Recommendations
Best Overall: Gaia GPS Premium
For most overlanders, Gaia GPS offers the best balance of features, map options, and price. The learning curve is worth it for the flexibility you gain.
Best for Trail Discovery: onX Offroad
If finding new trails and knowing exactly where public land begins matters most, onX is worth the higher price.
Best Budget Option: Avenza + Official Maps
Download free USFS Motor Vehicle Use Maps into Avenza for reliable, authoritative navigation at minimal cost.
Best Strategy: Use Multiple Apps
Many experienced overlanders run two apps – Gaia for primary navigation and Avenza with MVUM maps as backup. The redundancy provides peace of mind when far from help.
Essential Tips for Any App
- Download before you go: Never rely on downloading maps in the field
- Bring backup power: GPS navigation drains batteries quickly
- Learn the app at home: Practice navigation features before you need them
- Carry paper backup: Technology fails; a printed map doesn’t need batteries
- Verify routes: Don’t blindly follow any app into questionable situations
The best navigation app is the one you know how to use. Pick one, learn it well, and trust it in the field. Your adventures will be safer and more enjoyable with reliable navigation backing you up.
