Whether you’re exploring a new city, road-tripping through the countryside, or trying to avoid roaming charges, offline maps are the best way to stay on track. Find out below how you can use Google Maps without data.
Did you know that the latest versions of Google Maps allow you to download maps directly to your smartphones so you can use them offline? This handy tool can be a lifesaver when you’re travelling and can’t always get WiFi.
Does Google Maps work without internet?
If you’re always travelling to new destinations, you know how important it is to have access to a reliable map. It’s even more helpful to have a route you can use when you’re offline or in areas with unreliable WiFi. Fortunately, there’s still a way to use Google Maps without data to get directions when you don’t have a connection.
A step-by-step guide to downloading Google Maps
Using Google Maps without data is quick and easy. Here’s how to download maps while offline:
Make sure you have the Google Maps app on your device and that you’re signed in.
Search for the city or area you want to download, then tap the download button at the bottom of the screen.
Use pinch-to-zoom to define the exact area you want on your offline map.
Once downloaded, your map will be saved to your device and ready to use without a connection.
This feature is available on both Android and iOS-supported mobile devices, making it perfect for all travelers on the go.
Using Google Maps offline for mobile devices
You can download Google Maps from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store, depending on whether you’re using an Android or iOS device. Once installed, you can download maps of a new city or destination for later use when the internet is unavailable.
The latest versions of Google Maps allow you to download several interactive maps directly to your mobile devices. You can still use these smaller maps to retrieve driving directions offline if you plan to rent a car at the airport and explore a new city.
Keep in mind that information on walking, cycling, and public transport is usually not available on offline maps. You may also have a hard time searching for some restaurants, businesses, and traffic information.
Download Google Maps before you travel
Remember that you’ll need to download the Google Maps app and any necessary topographic data while you still have internet access. It’s best to download the app ahead of time so you already have the info stored on your device before your trip and don’t use up your data on the road. It’s also a great way to reduce your roaming charges on vacation.
Just be mindful of how many maps you download, as each can be up to 250 MB. To save space on your phone, it’s best to delete the downloaded map once you’re finished with it.
How to delete a downloaded map:
Hit the menu bar in the top-left corner, beside the location name
Go to offline maps
Choose the location
Click delete
Saving a Google Map offline
To get started saving maps in your Google Maps app, just search for your desired location, zoom to your specifications, and select the download button at the bottom. The app should ask to confirm whether you want to download a map of the specified area.
At the bottom of the screen, the app will tell you how much data the download will use (for example, 65 MB). The app may also tell you how much data is still available on your device.
If you’re flying overseas or somewhere with limited connectivity, downloading the necessary maps from Google beforehand can make all the difference. You’ll have all of the information you need ready to go, and you won’t have to stress about finding your way around once you arrive. If you already have an itinerary in mind, you’ll still be able to access certain points of interest, routes, and driving directions.
Offline storage options
Downloaded maps expire after a year, so if you intend to use them repeatedly, be sure to update them when you get back online. You can also save Google's offline maps to an SD card to free up space on your device. Just keep in mind that changing the storage location requires re-downloading offline areas. By default, Google Maps saves offline maps to your device’s internal storage.
Note: Your SD card may need to be configured for portable storage before use.
How to store Google Maps on the SD card for Android:
Insert an SD card in your Android phone
Open Google Maps
Go to ‘offline areas’ under the menu selection
Select ‘settings’ at the top right
Go to ‘storage preferences’
Tap ‘device,’ then SD card
Navigating your next trip
Before you take your next trip or head somewhere with limited internet access, consider downloading an offline map to your device. Whether you see it as insurance, a precaution, or a major convenience, having an offline map available may be your saving grace. With downloaded maps, you can navigate streets, search for locations, get directions, and even explore different routes within the area you’ve saved.
Frequently asked questions: Using Google Maps without data
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