How to Use Google Maps Offline Abroad: Download Maps Before You Go
Never get lost abroad — learn how to download Google Maps for offline use and navigate without an internet connection.
Published 2025-01-25 · Updated 2025-02-05 · TripSIM Team
Google Maps is arguably the most essential travel app, but it normally requires an internet connection. What happens when you're in a remote area without signal, or you want to save your precious data? The answer is offline maps. Here's how to download Google Maps areas before your trip so you can navigate anywhere, anytime.
Why Download Offline Maps for Travel?
- Navigate when you have no mobile signal or WiFi
- Save eSIM data by using pre-downloaded maps
- Essential backup for remote areas, national parks, and countryside
- Works in underground stations and tunnels where signal drops
- Peace of mind knowing you can always find your way
How to Download Google Maps for Offline Use
- Open Google Maps and search for your destination city or area
- Tap your profile picture, then select 'Offline maps'
- Tap 'Select your own map' to choose a custom area
- Pinch and zoom to frame the area you want to download
- Tap 'Download' — the map will save to your phone
- Maps expire after 30 days but can be updated automatically
How Much Storage Do Offline Maps Use?
A city-sized area (like central London or Paris) typically uses 50–150MB of storage. A larger region can be 200–500MB. If you're visiting multiple cities, download each area separately. Make sure you have enough free space on your phone before downloading — 1–2GB should cover most trips.
What Works Offline vs What Doesn't
- Works offline: driving directions, walking directions, place search, basic POI info
- Doesn't work offline: live traffic, public transit directions, real-time updates
- Partially works: restaurant and shop info (basic details only, no reviews)
Offline Maps + eSIM: The Perfect Combination
The smartest approach is to combine offline maps with a travel eSIM. Download maps over WiFi before you go, then use your eSIM data for live features like traffic, transit schedules, and real-time rerouting. This way you save data for when it matters most while always having a backup if signal drops.
How long do offline maps last?
Google Maps offline areas expire after 30 days but can update automatically when connected to WiFi. You can also manually update or re-download them at any time.
Can I get walking directions with offline maps?
Yes, Google Maps provides both walking and driving directions offline. However, public transit directions require an internet connection for real-time schedules.