Key Takeaways
- Access Google Maps offline by downloading maps of the city you’re in. This allows GPS navigation without the internet or a SIM card.
- Consider alternate navigation apps like Sygic GPS Navigation, HERE WeGo, OsmAnd, and Maps.me for areas with limited network coverage or expensive data packs.
- Waqas Hassn, an entrepreneur and digital nomad, shared this hack to help travelers navigate cities without relying on internet connectivity.
Victoria, Australia–Melbourne-based digital nomad and entrepreneur Waqas Hassn shared not-so-well-known tips on accessing Google Maps in a city when the internet is not accessible on his Instagram feed earlier this month.
In the video, Hassn talked about how travelers usually feel lost in a new city because they usually wouldn’t have a sim card or Wi-Fi network access.
“When you are in your hotel, just put the name of the city and go to the option on Google Maps and download that map,” said Waqas, adding that the GPS works without the internet or a sim card.
The option to download maps can be found by clicking on ‘offline maps,’ which appears in the pop-down list upon clicking on your profile picture in the Google Maps application (read complete instructions here).
“This is a hack that you can use to find your place in any city, any country without any internet,” he added.
Alternative Navigation Solutions
Although Google Maps offers one of the best and most seamless user interfaces, there are several alternate options for travelers planning to go to regions with less network coverage or to countries where data packs are expensive.
Some of the note-worthy alternatives include:
– Sygic GPS Navigation & Offline Maps
– HERE WeGo Offline Maps & GPS
– OsmAnd Offline Travel Maps & Navigation
– Maps.me
Entrepreneurial Endeavors
Born in Singapore, educated in Australia, and of Pakistani origin, Hassn is the founder of Digital Nomad Academy, an organization that offers classes on different skills and means of making money online, including brand marketing and content creation.
What We Think
Waqas Hassn’s offline Google Maps tip is a game-changer for travelers facing connectivity issues. It’s a smart strategy, especially in unfamiliar territories where access to the internet might be limited or costly.
Additionally, exploring alternative navigation apps expands options for smoother travels. Being prepared with offline maps aligns perfectly with the digital nomad spirit of adaptability and resourcefulness, ensuring a hassle-free experience even in connectivity-challenged areas.
