How to Use Google Maps offline

If you're planning on traveling to remote areas, where 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi are a remote possibility, you can save a map of the area you're visiting using the Google Maps app on your phone or tablet. Before you set off, open the app and find the area you want, then tap the menu button (three horizontal lines in the top-left corner), select 'Offline areas', then tap 'Custom area' on an Android device, or tap the blue ' +I symbol on an 'Phone or IPad. You'll see a section of map highlighted within a blue square.

The map area within the blue square will be saved to your device so you can view it, and even get directions within the area, without an Internet connection. As you set the size of the area you'll notice that zooming into a relatively small area reduces the size of the download, which is shown below the highlighted rectangle. As you zoom out to include a larger area, you'll see the size of your download increases. This is worth keeping an eye to make sure your device doesn't run out of space. Once you're happy with the selection, tap Download. Enter a name for the saved offline area when prompted, then tap Save and the map will begin downloading. 

Bear in mind that the saved area will automatically delete after 30 days unless you update it (Google sets this restriction to ensure the saved map doesn't become out of date). To update the area, tap the menu button, then "Offline areas" and tap the area you saved, then Update.