Google Maps is probably the best navigation app out there. But the app offers many more features than you might think.
We all know Google Maps as the perfect way to get from A to B, but the app has many other useful features that often go unnoticed. Ideal if you’re going out with friends or family for the day, or on vacation by car.
Google Maps does much more than just tell you where to turn. We’ve listed a few handy tips for you that will help you make the most of the app. That way, the app will become your ultimate travel companion!
Google Maps: hidden features you may not know about
There’s more to Google Maps than meets the eye. Here are the best hidden features.
#1 Measure distances and areas
Google Maps is not only useful for calculating driving or walking distances. You can also use it to measure direct distances. For example, for planning a hike or calculating the size of your yard.
To do this, tap and hold your finger anywhere on the map. You will now see a red pin. Select Measure Distance. Then click anywhere else to see the distance.
You don’t need those anymore (Image: Unsplash)
#2 The double-tap zoom trick of Google Maps
Maybe you always use the “pinch” motion to zoom in and out on Google Maps, but there’s a more convenient way: double-tap and hold your finger on the map.
Drag your finger up or down to quickly zoom in or out. This is perfect when you only have one hand free, such as when holding onto a subway railing or carrying groceries.
#3 Create your own locations in Google Maps
Do you have a favorite picnic spot or a secret parking lot that you always forget about? No problem. Just hold down a spot on the map and add a label to it. This way you can mark your own locations, and they will appear later in your saved spots.
(Image: Unsplash/Nicole Logan)
#4 Remember where you parked
There is little more frustrating than losing your car in a giant parking lot. Once you park, tap the blue dot on the map and select “Save Parking. Your parking spot is saved and you can easily find it using the search bar.
#5 Report accidents and traffic problems
If you are on the road and encounter an accident or traffic problem, you can report it in Google Maps so that other users will be alerted.
In navigation mode, tap the plus icon on the right, and there you can report an accident. The more reports there are, the better the alerts for other users.
Avoid a major traffic jam thanks to Google Maps (Image: Unsplash)
#6 Answer questions about locations
Google Maps also has a social aspect. Namely, you can answer questions about places you have visited.
For example, you can indicate whether a restaurant is accessible and whether there is parking. This helps other users and you can also count on the answers of others when you yourself go somewhere again.
