How to Use Google Maps Without Internet

4 min read  ·  iPhone · Android

Google Maps lets you download any area of the map to your phone so you can get turn-by-turn directions even with no data signal. This is ideal for travel abroad, rural areas, or anywhere your reception is unreliable. You need to download the maps before you lose signal.

Download an Offline Map on iPhone or Android

1

Open Google Maps and make sure you're connected to WiFi

Open the Google Maps app. Connect to WiFi before downloading — offline maps can be 100–500 MB depending on the area, so downloading over WiFi saves your mobile data.

2

Search for the city, region, or area you want to download

Tap the search bar at the top and type the name of the city, region, or country you want to save offline. Tap the result to open it on the map.

3

Tap the name of the place at the bottom of the screen

After searching, a card appears at the bottom showing the place name. Tap it to expand the details panel.

4

Tap the three-dot menu and select Download offline map

Tap the three-dot menu icon (⋮) in the top right of the details panel. Select Download offline map from the menu that appears.

5

Adjust the area and tap Download

A square selection box appears over the map. Pinch or drag to adjust the area you want to save. The file size estimate updates as you resize. When you're happy with the area, tap Download.

6

Wait for the download to complete

Google Maps will download the map in the background. You'll see a progress bar. Once complete, you can use navigation in that area without any data connection.

Storage tip: Offline maps take up storage on your phone. A large city like London or New York typically uses 200–400 MB. If you're low on space, download only the area you actually need rather than an entire country.

Use Your Offline Maps for Navigation

1

Open Google Maps — no internet needed

Even without WiFi or mobile data, open Google Maps. The app will automatically use your downloaded map for the area you're in.

2

Search for your destination and tap Directions

Type your destination in the search bar. Tap Directions and choose your travel mode (driving, walking, cycling). Turn-by-turn navigation works fully offline.

3

Your GPS still works without internet

GPS uses satellite signals, not mobile data — so your phone can still pinpoint your exact location even with no signal. Offline maps + GPS = full navigation without any data.

Manage and Update Your Offline Maps

1

Open Google Maps and tap your profile photo

Tap your profile photo or initial in the top right corner of the Google Maps home screen.

2

Tap Offline maps

Tap Offline maps to see all your downloaded maps. Each map shows the area name, file size, and expiry date.

3

Update or delete maps as needed

Tap Update next to any map to refresh it with the latest data. Tap the three-dot menu next to a map and select Delete to remove it and free up storage. Maps expire after about 15 days and need to be updated to stay accurate.

Real-time features that don't work offline: Live traffic updates, public transport timetables, Street View, and searching for business hours or reviews all require an internet connection. The map, roads, and turn-by-turn navigation work perfectly offline.

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