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Choosing the right sat nav for truck drivers is no simple task. A quick glance at the opinions shared on the forum reveals a lively discussion, with no shortage of strong preferences, cautionary tales, and debates about technology versus tradition. Whether you're looking for a dedicated sat nav device or relying on apps, here’s a breakdown of what truck drivers think about the most popular options.
Tom tom: mixed reviews but strong traffic alerts
The TomTom brand sparked both high praise and sharp criticism. Many drivers lauded devices like the TomTom Go Expert 7” for their ability to help avoid low bridges and restricted roads, calling it a great investment for HGV drivers. Others found it less reliable, citing instances of being directed down unsuitable roads, leading to fines or unnecessary detours. Some recommended older TomTom models with large screens and lifetime updates, particularly those equipped with SIM cards for live traffic updates.
However, a frequent frustration was TomTom's occasional tendency to suggest illogical routes, such as avoiding the M25 Eastbound or providing incorrect information about tunnel restrictions. Users advised tweaking vehicle settings, such as adjusting the vehicle length, to resolve these quirks.
Garmin: reliable, but not perfect
Garmin is another popular choice among truck drivers, with devices like the Garmin Dezl 710 and Garmin LGV 1000 getting frequent mentions. Many praised Garmin for its durability and accuracy, with some drivers stating they’d used the same device for years without issues. The Garmin Dezl 10-inch model received high marks for usability across the UK and Europe.
That said, a few drivers encountered issues with Garmin’s route calculations, such as being directed to inappropriate routes or areas. For those seeking accurate live traffic updates, Garmin often fell short compared to TomTom. Nevertheless, it remains a favourite for many, especially when paired with supplementary tools like Google Maps or What3Words.
Snooper: good, but not a standout
Snooper devices were described as “good” by some drivers, but the brand didn't seem to inspire the same level of loyalty as TomTom or Garmin. Those who used Snooper generally agreed it got the job done, but it wasn't without its faults. For example, one user mentioned they eventually moved on to TomTom after trying both Snooper and Garmin.
Apps vs traditional sat navs
A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the use of apps versus traditional devices. Many drivers mentioned using phone-based apps like TomTom Truck or CoPilot, often paired with Google Maps for street-level confirmation. These apps were appreciated for their affordability and frequent updates, although some companies don’t allow drivers to rely solely on phones for navigation.
Meanwhile, there’s still a contingent of drivers who swear by paper maps, believing they build a deeper understanding of routes. While others acknowledged the value of maps as a backup, they argued that modern sat navs are indispensable in handling live traffic updates, low bridge alerts, and restricted zones.
Additional advice from the road
1. Talk to other drivers: Many contributors stressed the value of chatting with fellow truckers for real-world tips and recommendations.
2. Have a backup plan: Even with the best sat nav, accidents, restrictions, or errors can occur. Drivers recommended keeping a paper map handy, using Google Maps for street view, and applying common sense when following a device's directions.
3. Check the settings: If a sat nav behaves oddly, fine-tune the settings for vehicle dimensions, weight, and cargo to ensure optimal routing.
4. Consider What3Words: Some drivers shared success stories of using What3Words for pinpoint accuracy in hard-to-reach destinations, like solar farms.
Final thoughts: it’s all about preference
In the end, the best sat nav for a truck driver often comes down to personal preference. Whether you opt for TomTom, Garmin, Snooper, or a trusted app, each has its strengths and weaknesses. The most seasoned drivers agree: no technology is perfect, and a mix of tools—including paper maps and a bit of human intuition—can make all the difference on the road.
oh, and M11 south to go north 
