5 React Native Truths I Wish I Knew Before Building 10+ Apps

Hithere 👋, I've spent the last three years building React Native apps - some that soared, others that crashed harder than a JavaScript promise without a .catch(). Along the way, I've stumbled into pitfalls, wrestled with performance gremlins, and learned hard lessons that no tutorial ever warned me about. If you're just starting out or feel like React Native is quietly judging your life choices, let's talk about the things I wish someone had screamed at me in bold, italic, Comic Sans.

1. "Global State" Isn't Always the Answer (And Context Isn't a Hero)

When I built my first app, I treated React's Context API like duct tape. Authentication state? Context. Theme toggling? Context. A random counter? Context. By my third app, I'd created a dependency monster that re-rendered everything from the header to the footer if someone sneezed.

What I wish I knew:

  • Server state ≠ global state: Tools like React Query or SWR handle data fetching, caching, and synchronization way better than shoving everything into Redux or Context. Save global state for truly app-wide needs (e.g., user preferences).
  • Zustand over Context for small apps: For lighter global state, Zustand's API is simpler than Redux and avoids unnecessary re-renders.
// Zustand example: A clean, minimal store  
import create from 'zustand';  

const useCartStore = create((set) => ({  
  items: [],  
  addItem: (item) => set((state) => ({ items: [...state.items, item] })),  
}));

2. Navigation Will Backstab You If You're Not Careful

React Navigation is a gift… until it's not. Early on, I'd structure my navigation containers haphazardly, only to spend hours debugging why the goBack() function behaved like a moody teenager.

What I wish I knew:

  • Structure your navigation tree early: Use a root NavigationContainer and stick to a clear hierarchy (e.g., Stack -> Tabs -> Screens).
  • Type-check your navigators: Use TypeScript or PropTypes to avoid passing invalid params. Trust me, "undefined is not an object" will haunt your dreams.
  • Deep linking isn't optional: Plan for it upfront. Your PM will ask for it after launch.

3. Native Modules Aren't Scary (But Avoid Them Until They Are)

I avoided native code like it was a legacy class component. Then I had to integrate a niche SDK, and my "expo install" bubble burst.

What I wish I knew:

  • Learn the basics of native modules early: You don't need to be a Swift/Java expert, but understanding how to bridge native code saves time.
  • Use react-native-builder-bob: It automates scaffolding native modules, so you can focus on logic instead of Xcode tantrums.
  • Expo Modules API is your friend: If using Expo, their new modules system simplifies native integrations.

4. Performance Is a Feature You Can't Bolt On Later

My first app felt slower than a Windows update because I used ScrollView for a 1,000-item list. (Spoiler: The app crashed, and so did my confidence.)

What I wish I knew:

  • FlatList and SectionList are non-negotiable: They recycle components like a thrift store. Use getItemLayout for fixed-height items to skip expensive measurements.
  • Memoize strategically: Wrap components in React.memo and use useCallback for functions passed to child components. But don't over-memoize—it's not salt.
  • Profile with Flipper: React Native's Flipper plugin lets you inspect re-renders, network requests, and native logs. It's like X-ray glasses for your app.

5. You're Probably Over-Engineering

I once built a "scalable" folder structure with 10 nested layers for a to-do app. My teammate still brings it up at parties.

What I wish I knew:

  • Start with Expo: Unless you need custom native code, Expo gets you to MVP faster. Eject later if needed.
  • Boring code > clever code: That fancy animated gradient button? It'll break in Android 14. Use community libraries (check their GitHub issues first!).
  • Copy-paste is okay: If you're solving the same problem in three places, then abstract it.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Grind

React Native is a rollercoaster — exhilarating, nauseating, and occasionally on fire. But the sooner you accept that no one gets it right the first time, the faster you'll ship apps that don't embarass you on Twitter.

What's your "I wish I knew this earlier" React Native moment? Let's cry about it in the comments. 🚀

P.S. If you enjoyed this, smash that clap button so hard your spacebar begs for mercy. Follow me for more unsolicited advice.