How to Download Offline Maps Before You Go

You open the app at a trailhead and it says "No internet connection". The map won't load. If you didn't save the area before you left, nothing is stored to fall back on.

Fix one: save the area while you have a connection

Google Maps lets you save an area to your phone or tablet and use it when you're offline.¹ These are the steps from Google's own help pages. Menus change between app versions, so follow the current help page for your phone.

1. Open the app and make sure you're connected to the internet. On Android, also make sure you're signed in to Google Maps.² On iPhone and iPad, make sure you're not in Incognito mode.¹
2. Search for a place inside the area you want.
3. On Android, swipe right in the placesheet.² On iPhone and iPad, tap the name or address of the place at the bottom.¹
4. Tap More, then Download offline map, then Download.¹

There's also a "Select your own map" option, where you adjust the box to cover the area and tap Download.² That's the better choice for a long route, because you choose the edges yourself.

Do it on Wi-Fi. At home.

Fix two: check the area is big enough

Per Google, guidance to your destination is available while the entire route stays within the saved map.²

So draw the box generously. Include your planned road, the roads on each side, and the ways back out. Then open the list of offline maps and look at what you've saved.

Fix three: know what offline mode won't do

A saved map still has gaps. Driving offline means no traffic info and no alternate routes, according to Google.² Plan the detours yourself, on paper if you can. There's a case for keeping paper in the glovebox too.

Fix four: watch for expiry

Offline maps expire. When they have 15 days or fewer left and you're on Wi-Fi, the app tries to update the area itself.²

If you're away from Wi-Fi for a long time, that update won't happen. Check the expiry date on the day before you leave, and update if it's close. Turn on automatic updates in the offline maps settings if you want the app to handle it.

Fix five: storage and region limits

Android phones can save maps on the device or on an SD card.² If you change where you save them, you have to download again.²

Big areas eat space. Check you've got room on the phone before you start, because a download that stops halfway leaves you with a gap in the map exactly where you'll need it.

Offline maps aren't offered everywhere. Google says you can't download them in some countries or regions.² If you're travelling abroad, check before you rely on it.

Test it before you trust it

Turn on airplane mode at home. Open the app and look at your route. Zoom in on junctions and make sure the roads and names show up. If they're missing, the area wasn't saved properly.

Your phone's position dot will still work with no signal, because GPS operates independently of any telephone or Internet reception.³ The reasons are laid out in why satellites still reach you. Other map apps have their own offline tools and rules, so read each app's help page.