Where to download maps and what they're for
Downloading a map stores it on your device so you can view it without an internet connection. This is useful when you're traveling to an area with poor cell service, driving internationally where data charges are high, or simply want to avoid using mobile data. Most phones and computers come with built-in map apps that let you download regions for offline use.
The process differs slightly depending on whether you use Google Maps, Apple Maps, or another mapping service, but the basic steps are the same: open the app, find the area you want, and select a download option. Once downloaded, the map stays on your device until you delete it, and you can zoom and navigate just as you would online.
Key Takeaways
- Google Maps, Apple Maps, and most other mapping apps let you download regions for offline viewing by searching for a location and tapping a download or save option.
- Downloaded maps take up storage space on your device—typically 50 MB to several hundred MB depending on the area size—so check your available storage first.
- Offline maps work for viewing and basic navigation but cannot provide real-time traffic updates, live transit information, or turn-by-turn directions that require an internet connection.
- Downloaded maps expire after a set period (usually 15 to 30 days) and must be refreshed to stay current with road changes and new locations.
Downloading maps in Google Maps
Open Google Maps on your phone or tablet and search for the city, region, or specific area you want to download. Tap the location name or address at the bottom of the screen to open the place card. On Android, tap the three-dot menu icon and select "Download." On iPhone, tap the name at the bottom, then scroll down and tap "Download."
A box will appear showing the area that will be downloaded. You can adjust the zoom level to include more or less territory—zooming out captures a larger region but uses more storage. Tap "Download" to start. The download may take several minutes depending on the area size and your internet speed. You can close the app while it downloads; the process continues in the background.
To view your downloaded maps later, open Google Maps offline. The app will show which maps are stored on your device. Tap any downloaded map to view it. Navigation and search work with limited functionality—you can see streets and landmarks, but you won't get real-time traffic or live transit updates.
Downloading maps in Apple Maps
On an iPhone or iPad, open Apple Maps and search for the location you want to download. Tap the location name at the bottom of the screen. Scroll down and tap "Download Map." A preview of the area appears with a size estimate. Tap "Download" to confirm.
Apple Maps downloads the region in the background. Once complete, the map is available offline. To access your downloaded maps, open Apple Maps, tap the menu icon (three horizontal lines), and select "Offline Maps." You'll see a list of all maps stored on your device. Tap any map to view it.
Like Google Maps, offline Apple Maps show streets and locations but don't provide real-time traffic, live transit schedules, or turn-by-turn navigation that requires a data connection. You can still search for addresses and see where they are on the map.
Storage space and map size
Downloaded maps consume storage on your device. A single city typically uses 50 to 150 MB, while a larger region like an entire state or country can use 500 MB to several gigabytes. Before downloading, check how much free space you have. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. On Android, go to Settings > Storage.
If you're running low on space, delete maps you no longer need. In Google Maps, tap the three-dot menu next to a downloaded map and select "Delete." In Apple Maps, swipe left on a map in the Offline Maps list and tap "Delete." You can always re-download a map later if you need it again.
How long downloaded maps stay current
Downloaded maps expire after a set period to ensure they reflect road changes, new streets, and updated business locations. Google Maps expire after 15 to 30 days, depending on your region. Apple Maps expire after 15 days. When a map is about to expire, the app will notify you and prompt you to refresh it.
To refresh a map, open the app and tap the download option again for that location. The app will update the map with the latest information. This requires an internet connection, so refresh your maps before you travel to an area without cell service.
What offline maps can and cannot do
Offline maps let you view streets, landmarks, and saved locations without internet. You can search for addresses, see where they are on the map, and use basic navigation. However, offline maps cannot show real-time traffic conditions, live public transit schedules, or provide turn-by-turn voice navigation that depends on a live connection.
Some mapping apps, like Sygic or Maps.me, offer more robust offline navigation with voice guidance, but these require downloading their separate apps. Google Maps and Apple Maps prioritize online features, so their offline mode is best for viewing and basic orientation rather than detailed turn-by-turn driving.
Other mapping apps that support downloads
Beyond Google and Apple Maps, several other apps let you download maps. Maps.me is designed specifically for offline use and covers the entire world. Download the app, search for a region, and tap the download button. Maps.me maps don't expire and include basic navigation.
Sygic offers offline maps with turn-by-turn voice navigation, though some features require a paid subscription. OsmAnd uses open-source map data and lets you download regions for free. Each app works slightly differently, so check the app's help section for specific download steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I download a map of an entire country?
Yes, but it will use significant storage—often several gigabytes. Most phones have enough space, but check your available storage first. If you're traveling through a country, download the regions you'll actually visit rather than the entire country to save space.
What happens if I try to navigate offline without downloading a map first?
Google Maps and Apple Maps will show your location on the map if you have GPS enabled, but you won't see street details or be able to search for addresses. The map will appear blank or very basic. Always download before you lose cell service.
Do downloaded maps update automatically?
No. Maps expire after 15 to 30 days and must be manually refreshed. The app will remind you when a map is about to expire. Refresh over WiFi or a strong data connection before traveling to avoid using mobile data in the field.
Can I share a downloaded map with someone else?
No. Downloaded maps are stored locally on your device and cannot be transferred to another phone or shared directly. The other person must download the map themselves using their own device and mapping app.
Will GPS work without downloading a map?
GPS itself works without internet or a downloaded map—your phone can determine your location using satellite signals alone. However, you won't see a map to understand where you are or navigate. Download a map so you can see your location on it.