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Choose a non-Google map app, download the area you need while you still have an internet connection, then test it in Airplane Mode before you travel. Offline maps can save the map data to your phone, but the available search, directions, and travel modes depend on the app and region.
Choose an offline map app for your phone and trip
For ordinary navigation, Apple Maps is a straightforward choice on a supported iPhone. For more control over offline search and outdoor navigation, consider OsmAnd. HERE WeGo offers downloads organized by continent and region. For UK hiking, OS Maps provides downloadable leisure maps and routes, with subscription requirements to check in the app.
| App | Platform and use | Offline setup and capabilities | Coverage or access caveat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Maps | iPhone; general navigation | On iOS 17 or later, search for a place, tap Download or More → Download Map, adjust the area, and download. Offline maps can provide place information and turn-by-turn directions for driving, walking, cycling, and public transport. | Available only in selected areas; features vary by region. Downloads do not sync across devices. Apple Support |
| OsmAnd | iPhone and Android; offline search, navigation, and outdoor use | Download the required region through initial setup or Menu → Maps & Resources → Downloads. OsmAnd recommends vector maps for reliable offline search and navigation. Choose a routing profile, set a destination, and start route calculation. | Full function requires offline maps; detailed navigation needs the relevant country or regional map. Precise location permission is needed for accurate navigation. OsmAnd map downloads |
| HERE WeGo | iPhone and Android; country and regional downloads | Open Your Maps → Download maps, select a region, wait for the download, then enable Use app offline from the menu. | Offline maps are available in many countries, with exemptions including Japan, Korea, and China. HERE recommends regular updates. HERE WeGo offline maps |
| OS Maps | UK hiking; maps and routes | Download the map and route data you need, then test them in Flight Mode. The app may use separate steps for downloading maps and routes. | The OS Maps guide says access to all 607 OS leisure maps requires OS Maps Premium; check current subscription details and menus in the app. OS Maps |
Download and test your maps before leaving
- Install and open the app while online. Initial setup and map downloads generally require Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Download the right area. Select the destination region or a custom area, and include a buffer around your route and likely detours. In OsmAnd, download the appropriate regional map; its detailed world map does not replace country or regional maps for detailed navigation.
- Check phone storage. Map files take up space. Apple shows the planned download size, while HERE WeGo shows available storage during its download flow.
- Download route data if it is separate. This matters especially if your app distinguishes saved routes from offline map coverage, as OS Maps does.
- Allow location access where needed. OsmAnd requires precise location permission for accurate navigation.
- Test without a connection. Turn on Airplane Mode or Flight Mode and confirm the map opens, your location appears, and the search and routing modes you need work. Seeing a map image alone does not prove that offline search or directions are available.
- Update before the trip. Refresh downloaded maps while connected, and keep a backup plan for journeys where a navigation failure would matter.
What offline maps can—and cannot—do
Offline use works only when the correct map data is already on the phone. Regional availability differs: Apple Maps is limited to selected areas, and HERE WeGo lists country exemptions. Apps may also restrict particular features by region or map download.
The Tool Desk
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#1 Best Overall
- Bright, high-resolution 5” glass capacitive touchscreen display lets you easily view your route
- Get more situational awareness with alerts for school zones, speed changes, sharp curves and more
- View food, fuel and rest areas along your active route, and see upcoming cities and milestones
- View Tripadvisor traveler ratings for top-rated restaurants, hotels and attractions to help you make the most of road trips
- Directory of U.S. national parks simplifies navigation to entrances, visitor centers and landmarks within the parks
For hiking or another trip where a missed turn could have serious consequences, carry an appropriate backup such as a paper map. A downloaded phone map is useful, but it should not be your only safety measure.
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Apple notes that “Offline maps will not be synced across your devices.” Download the area on each device you plan to use rather than assuming it will appear automatically on another phone or tablet.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- 6” high-resolution navigator includes map updates of North America
- Hands-free calling when paired with your compatible smartphone with BLUETOOTH technology and convenient Garmin voice assist lets you ask for directions to places you want to go
- Road trip–ready features include the HISTORY database of notable sites, a U.S. national parks directory, Tripadvisor traveler ratings and millions of Foursquare POIs
- Driver alerts for things such as school zones, sharp curves and speed changes help encourage safer driving and increase situational awareness
- Access live traffic, fuel prices, parking, weather and smart notifications when you pair this navigator with your compatible smartphone running the Garmin Drive app
Rank #2
- Explore confidently with the reliable handheld GPS
- 2.2” sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability
- Preloaded with Topo Active maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
- Support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone
- 8 GB of internal memory for map downloads plus a micro SD card slot
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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