During the holiday season, many people are preparing to hit the road, whether they're going across town or across states. With all the hustle and bustle, Google Maps can serve as the ultimate travel companion, offering features aimed at streamlining the travel experience and reducing stress. From navigation to restaurant reservations and everything in between, here are several tips to make the most of Google Maps during your holiday travels.
First and foremost, Google Maps simplifies navigation through sprawling airports and transit stations, which can often feel overwhelming. Using the Directory tab makes it easy to find your way around. Just search for your airport or station, tap on the Directory tab at the bottom, and you'll find information on business hours, floor locations, and various services such as restaurants, stores, lounges, and parking lots.
If you want to avoid crowded spots, the Busyness tool on Google Maps should be your go-to feature. This tool allows users to see real-time crowd levels at specific locations. Just open Google Maps and type in your desired area; indicators will inform you whether it’s particularly busy or relatively quiet. It’s perfect for planning your visits to popular destinations during peak travel times.
Dining can also be made easier with Google Maps. The app lets you book restaurant reservations directly, eliminating the hassle of making phone calls during the busy holiday season. Simply tap the Restaurants button at the top of the map, select your desired eatery, and reserve a table or join the waitlist. Using it alongside the Busyness tool can help you choose places with less foot traffic.
For those traveling to remote locations where cell coverage may be spotty, Google Maps offers the ability to download offline maps. To do this, download the desired area before your trip by searching for your destination, tapping on the menu, selecting Download offline map, and confirming your area. This way, even without internet, you'll be able to navigate successfully.
If you're traveling with an electric vehicle, Google Maps makes it easier to find EV charging stations along your route. Just click on the More tab at the top of the screen and select Charging stations. The app will show you the nearest charging stations and their compatibility, making it straightforward to plan your stops.
Worried about losing track of your group during activities? Google Maps also allows you to share your real-time location. By tapping your profile icon and selecting Location sharing, you can choose whom to share your location with and for how long. You can also request others' locations, which is especially handy during group travel scenarios.
Planning your itinerary is made easy with the ability to create and share curated lists of places you want to visit. Go to the You tab, tap + New list, name it, and start saving your must-see locations. You can also share these lists with friends and family, making travel planning collaborative and fun.
Google Maps has more than proven its value as more than just navigational software; it's a comprehensive travel companion. With tools to support everything from airport navigation to ensuring smooth dining experiences, it can drastically improve the outcome of your holiday travels. By utilizing these features, you can plan your itinerary, keep your group connected, and enjoy more stress-free journeys this season. Remember, this holiday season, let Google Maps guide you toward delightful travel experiences.
