From the "prehistoric" printed maps to today's Google Maps, we all need to use some form of guidance or orientation when we are travelling somewhere new.
In our first trips we used to carry printed maps or we would ask for them in information centres or hotels where we would mark the places to go with a pen or pencil. Later, with the advance of mobile phones, we started to use GPS tools to guide us, more specifically: Google Maps.
But what was the problem with Google Maps? We needed to have internet to use it! And back then, international roaming had exorbitant prices and the use of prepaid chips with data was not yet implemented, so we didn't have internet access except for the occasional establishment that offered free Wifi.
So how did we use the maps if we didn't have internet? Simple, we downloaded them to our mobile and used them offline. And this is something we still do today, even if we have data, because you never know when your mobile signal might go down and having access to a map is essential for any trip. Especially if you don't speak the local language.
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We recommend downloading the maps before the trip. That way you can download them to your mobile while connected to data or wifi.
How to download offline maps step by step with Google Maps
Open the Google Maps application.
Click on your profile picture.
Click where it says "Offline Maps".
Click on "Select your own map".
Adjust the area you want for your map by zooming or un-zooming with your fingers.
Once you have the area selected click on "Download".
Then click on "Download now".
Wait a few minutes for it to download and we have our map!
📱If you want to test it and check that it has downloaded correctly, put your mobile in "aeroplane mode" and without being connected to wifi or data, try to search for places on the map.
Questions for our readers:
¿Have you ever downloaded maps to your mobile phone?
What do you use Google Maps for most (looking for places to eat, how to get to a place by public transport, opening hours...)?
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