Losing your internet connection when trying to navigate isn't a fun moment. Whether you're driving or walking to your destination, it can throw a spanner in the works.
But Google Maps offers a good hack: you can download offline maps to help you reach your location even if your phone has zero bars. This tool is perfect for when you've planned a trip ahead of time and know exactly where you're heading — or, if you want to be able to navigate a specific city. Downloading the map in advance is good insurance, especially in spotty WiFi zones.
Here's how to do it.
How to download Google Maps
Total Time5 min.
What you neediPhone or AndroidGoogle Maps app
Step 1: Open the Google Maps app on your phone.
Step 2: Click on the profile icon at the top right of the screen.
Step 3: Choose "offline maps."
![The menu in Google Maps.]()
Credit: Meera Navlakha / Google MapsStep 4: Click "select your own map".
![The]()
Credit: Meera Navlakha / Google MapsStep 5: Here, move your map to the area you want to download.
Google Maps will indicate how much storage the download will require depending on the size of the location.
![An image of Google Maps, displaying a map of England.]()
Credit: Meera Navlakha / Google MapsStep 6: Click "download".
Step 7: Bonus: you can also search for a specific city and click "download".
![A map of London with an arrow pointing to]()
Credit: Screenshot / Google Maps.
Here's a few more tips and tricks for using Google Maps while you're at it.
