How to Make a Route on Google Maps: A Step-by-Step Guide
Google Maps makes planning a route simple and efficient, whether you’re driving, walking, biking, or using public transportation. By creating a route, you can easily find the fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination. Whether you’re planning a road trip, a local commute, or a walking tour of a city, Google Maps has you covered.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a route on Google Maps for different types of transportation.
Why Create a Route on Google Maps?
There are several benefits to using Google Maps for route planning:
- Accurate Directions: Google Maps provides detailed and real-time directions to help you reach your destination with ease.
- Traffic Updates: The app adjusts your route based on current traffic conditions, helping you avoid delays.
- Alternative Routes: Google Maps offers different route options, giving you flexibility to choose the one that works best for you.
- Multiple Modes of Transportation: Whether you’re driving, walking, biking, or taking public transport, Google Maps can provide routes tailored to your mode of travel.
How to Make a Route on Google Maps (Android and iOS)
Follow these simple steps to create a route on Google Maps.
Step 1: Open Google Maps
- Launch the Google Maps app on your Android or iOS device. Make sure the app is updated to the latest version.
Step 2: Enter Your Destination
- Tap the search bar at the top of the screen.
- Type in the address or name of your destination and select it from the list of results.
Step 3: Set Your Starting Point
- If you want to start from your current location, tap Directions (the blue button at the bottom).
- If you wish to use a different starting location, tap the “Your location” field, which will let you enter a new address or search for a different starting point.
Step 4: Choose Your Mode of Transportation
Google Maps allows you to plan routes for different modes of transportation:
- Driving: Tap the car icon (if it’s not already selected) for driving directions.
- Walking: Tap the pedestrian icon for walking routes.
- Biking: Tap the bike icon for bike-friendly routes (available in some areas).
- Public Transit: Tap the train/bus icon for directions using public transportation.
Google Maps will generate the best possible route for the selected mode of transport.
Step 5: View Your Route Options
After selecting your mode of transportation, Google Maps will display your route on the map. You’ll also see options for:
- Estimated Travel Time: How long it will take to reach your destination based on current traffic conditions.
- Alternative Routes: Tap the route options that appear to view alternative routes to your destination. You can choose the one that best suits your preferences.
You may also see options for avoid tolls, avoid highways, or avoid ferries depending on the route.
Step 6: Start Navigation
Once you’ve reviewed your route and chosen the best option, tap Start to begin navigating.
- On Android: After tapping “Start,” Google Maps will begin providing turn-by-turn directions.
- On iOS: Once you tap “Start,” you’ll also receive voice-guided navigation.
Google Maps will also update the route in real-time, accounting for traffic changes, road closures, or accidents along the way.
How to Add Multiple Stops to a Route on Google Maps
If you need to visit more than one destination, you can easily add multiple stops to your route:
- After entering your starting point and destination, tap the three vertical dots (menu) in the top-right corner.
- Select Add stop.
- Enter the address or location of your next stop.
- Repeat the process to add more stops to your route.
- Once you’ve added all your stops, tap Done to finalize your route.
Google Maps will automatically adjust your route to include all your stops in the most efficient order.
How to Save a Route for Later Use
If you want to save your route for future use, Google Maps allows you to do this easily:
- Create your route as described above.
- Once the route is generated, tap the three vertical dots (menu) in the top-right corner.
- Select Add route to Home screen (this option may not be available for all users).
- This will create a shortcut on your home screen that you can tap to quickly access the route again later.
How to Share Your Route with Others
If you want to share your route with a friend or family member, you can do so directly from Google Maps:
- After creating your route, tap the three vertical dots (menu) in the top-right corner.
- Select Share Directions.
- Choose the method you prefer to share the route (e.g., via text message, email, or social media).
- Send the route link to others, and they will be able to access the same directions on their Google Maps app.
Tips for Making the Best Route on Google Maps
- Use Real-Time Traffic Information: Google Maps automatically updates your route to avoid traffic congestion. Pay attention to the traffic updates that appear on the map, especially if you’re traveling during peak hours.
- Try Incognito Mode: If you don’t want your travel history to be saved, use Incognito mode in Google Maps. This way, your search and navigation history won’t be recorded.
- Download Maps for Offline Use: If you’re traveling in an area with limited or no signal, consider downloading maps beforehand to ensure you can access your route offline.
- Use Alternative Routes: Always check for alternative routes, especially if you see signs of traffic delays or accidents. Google Maps will offer different options depending on your travel time and conditions.
Conclusion
Creating a route on Google Maps is an easy and effective way to plan your journey. Whether you’re driving, walking, cycling, or using public transport, Google Maps provides detailed and real-time directions to help you get to your destination efficiently.
With the ability to add multiple stops, share routes with others, and even navigate offline, Google Maps ensures that you’ll never lose your way—no matter where you’re headed. So next time you’re wondering how to make a route on Google Maps, just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way in no time!