Mobile data can disappear in a tunnel, on a rural road or while roaming. Google Maps lets you download an area in advance so driving navigation can still work when a connection is weak or unavailable—provided the entire route sits inside the saved map.
Save the area while you are online
In Google Maps, search for the destination or region, open its place card or map options and choose the offline-map download control. Adjust the rectangle to include the route, nearby roads and places where you might need to turn around, then download over Wi-Fi if the area is large. The exact menu can vary by app version and region.
Open Offline maps in your profile menu to check the saved area, update it or download it again. Google says maps can expire and should be updated; when an area is near expiry and the phone is on Wi-Fi, the app may try to refresh it automatically.
Know the offline limits
Google says offline driving directions work only when the whole route is within the downloaded area. Transit, bicycle and walking directions are unavailable offline. For driving, you also lose live traffic and alternate routes. Some countries or regions do not allow offline downloads because of licensing, language or address-format restrictions.
Do not make offline maps your only navigation plan for a remote or safety-critical trip. Download the area before departure, confirm that it appears in your offline list and bring a charger or backup power. Keep a paper map or another navigation option where conditions call for it.
Quick test: switch off mobile data briefly before leaving and confirm Maps can still open the saved area. Restore connectivity afterward for current traffic and updates.
Official guide
Google Maps Help: Download areas and navigate offline
Official guide
Google Maps Help: Download areas and navigate offline
Featured image: Maurizio Pesce from Milan, Italia via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0. Image source and license.
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