If you haven’t got it already, download the Google Maps app to your phone or device.Google Maps lets you view maps offline, as long as you download them first. If you don’t want to pay for roaming data while abroad, or are going to be heading off the beaten track, make sure to download the maps you’ll need to your phone’s memory before you travel. This is when you need to think ahead and switch to using offline digital maps. It will also be a problem if you are travelling to remote destinations, particularly where there is no phone signal or internet.

This is fine if you have access to Wi-Fi, but if you are paying to roam for data, this will become expensive over time. If you have the time to delve further then it can provide virtual walks along streets, it can show you inside some buildings, it can locate the nearest petrol station and even suggest a local restaurant, bar or bank should you want one.įor holidays, Google Maps remains a useful tool, but it does work best when connected to the internet to enable all its extra features. Google Maps has developed over the years to be more than just a map. The maps are clear, directions are good, and it can be connected to your car, in place of a sat nav. I have used Google Maps in the USA, Canada and Australia as well as the UK. Importantly it is free and easy to use, and my go-to app for exploring an unfamiliar destination by foot or by car. Google apps comes pre-installed on most Android devices, and is also available to download from the Apple App Store. Google Maps has been the market leader or some time (although there are some good alternatives). Ultimately, this means that your phone can show you where you are on a map and give you directions to where you want to be. This enables your device to pinpoint your location, to within a few metres, anywhere in the world. All smart phones and tablets come with a GPS (Global Positioning System) as standard.

Google maps offline