Saving Offline Maps

Many of us depend on maps on a daily basis. Physical well-folded pamphlets or spiral-bound atlases such as the Thomas Guide had been staples in our cars and were the go-to resource before the Internet. Connectivity rendered physical maps obsolete.

Disasters strike at the most inopportune moments so what happens when you’ve lost connectivity and needed directions or a destination? Online maps are vital daily tool, knowing how to access an offline map is equally important.

We will walk you through how to download and save offline maps with Google, Apple, and Microsoft. Make sure you have an internet connection before beginning.

Jump to: Google • Apple • Microsoft

Google Maps

Available on iPhone and Android. Click here for the Official Support Documentation.

Step 1

Open the Google Maps app on your device and click on the profile image at the top. There you will find Offline maps, click on it.

Be sure you are not in Incognito mode

Step 2

The next step is to Select Your Own Map area. Click on the button to begin.

Step 3

Change the box to include the desired area to store offline.

Step 4

When you have the area covered click the Download button and let your device capture the data it needs. You will get a notification when the map is ready.

For Android devices the offline map is by default downloaded in your device’s internal storage. However, you do have the option of downloading a map onto an SD card. Within “Storage preferences” tap Device and then select SD card.

Apple Maps

Available on iPhone and iPad using iOS 17 and later. Click here for the Official Documentation.

Step 1

Open Maps on your Apple device and click on Offline Maps.

Step 2

Click Download New Map.

Step 3

Adjust the box to include the desired area to store the data offline.

Step 4

When covered click the Download button and wait for the data to finish getting captured.

Microsoft Maps

Available on Windows devices. Click here for a helpful article from Make Tech Easier.

Note: This feature might be removed after 2023.

Step 1

Using the Start button, select or search for the Maps application and launch it.

Step 2

Click Choose maps. This takes you to system Settings > Apps > Offline Maps.

Step 3

Click Download maps.

Step 4

Select the preferred regions and click Download. Wait for the data to get copied to your device.

  • Phone Facts

  • A general tip is to always keep your device’s battery well-charged. Getting into the habit of not allowing your battery to dip below 50% charged is a good custom to adopt.
  • Offline Map data does take up local storage space.
  • Adding a battery to your First Aid Kit will help keep you connected when the power goes out.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND USER CONTRIBUTED CONTENT

  • Additional Articles

  • Additional Articles for Android Devices

  • Additional Articles for Apple Devices

  • Additional Articles for Microsoft Devices