Google Maps offline: the traveler's guide
Offline maps + an unlimited eSIM is the perfect duo: offline saves you on the subway, the plane and dead zones; the eSIM does everything else. Set it up in 5 minutes.
How to download (before traveling, on Wi-Fi)
- Open Google Maps → your profile photo → "Offline maps".
- "Select your own map" and frame the whole city or region.
- Download. A big city takes 200-500 MB; a region, 1-2 GB.
- Repeat for each city on the itinerary.
Offline maps expire (typically 30 days) and auto-update on Wi-Fi. Download them the week of the trip.
What works offline and what doesn't
| Works without internet | Needs data |
|---|
| Searching addresses and saved places | Real-time public transit |
| Driving navigation (routes) | Live traffic and alternative routes |
| Viewing the map with GPS (the blue dot works: GPS uses no data) | Opening hours, reviews and photos of places |
| — | Walking and cycling navigation (limited offline) |
Why it is worth it even with unlimited data
- Subway and basements: no signal for anyone; the offline map keeps working.
- Rural areas and highways: stretches with no coverage from any carrier.
- Battery: the offline map uses less radio and stretches the day's battery.
- Bulletproof day 1: if anything fails with the connection on landing, you still reach the hotel.
Offline is plan B. Plan A is truly unlimited internet: simulate your price.
See my price →Frequently asked questions
Does GPS work without internet?
Yes: GPS is a free satellite signal that uses no data. With the offline map downloaded, the blue dot locates you with no connection.
How much space do offline maps take?
Between 200 MB and 2 GB depending on the area. Download per city and delete the ones you have already visited.
Do offline maps expire?
Yes, typically after 30 days, and they renew automatically on Wi-Fi. Download them the same week as the trip.
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