Use Google Maps as a pedestrian: the best tips
We have collected the best tips for Google Maps that you can use as a pedestrian. With Google Maps, you can not only calculate specific routes for cars and public transport, but just as well for bicycle and pedestrian paths.
Select the right pedestrian route with Google Maps
Similar to the car route, you can also choose which route you want to take as a pedestrian.
- Pay attention to the times and check whether one of the alternative routes is not faster. However, be careful with the footpaths, because Google Maps itself indicates that the routes are still in beta.
- You can display the route in map form by starting the route. If you then tap on the time at the bottom, the directions will open. So you can always orient yourself. Intermediate goals can also be inserted.
- Tip: You can also share the directions with friends by clicking on the three dots above. Then select "Share Directions".
Use Google Maps in portrait format
It makes most sense if you use Google Maps for your walking route in portrait format, because this way you can see more distance or more of the map.
- To prevent you from constantly sliding into landscape format, you should switch off the rotation of your smartphone. We'll show you how this works for Android and iOS devices in another practical tip.
- It also makes sense to remove the checkmark next to "Tilt map" in the navigation settings. This way, the entire map is not constantly spinning. This can be confusing, especially in foreign cities.
Use speech output as a pedestrian
Just like the navigation device in the car, you can also use the voice output as a pedestrian.
- To do this, click on the three dots at the bottom right of Google Maps while navigating. Now select "Settings" and then activate or deactivate the checkmark for "Voice output via Bluetooth".
- Alternatively, you can select "Mute" in the settings and only concentrate on the route.
- Note that your device's sound must be active for voice output. Also keep in mind that suitable headphones or a headset are useful for voice output.
Use pedestrian maps offline in maps
Especially as a pedestrian, it is good if the maps from Google Maps are also available offline.
- In order to be able to access these offline, you should click on "Save new offline map" in the search below and then follow the instructions from Google Maps.
- You can call up these offline maps again later via your profile and then use them for your route. This also saves battery, since you do not have to use your GPS.
- However, your planning is necessary for this variant. If you need a route spontaneously, this is not possible. Even if you change the route in the meantime or there are pending spontaneous changes on the route, the offline map usually does not help you. Tip: Save an entire map area or at least alternative routes.
Don't forget the mobile charging station
As a pedestrian, you cannot use the cigarette lighter in the car, which is why the battery is quickly empty in such an undertaking.
- Therefore, you should definitely think of your mobile charging station or at least try to work as energy-efficiently as possible. Offline maps can be an alternative for some occasions.
If Google Maps does not work, there can be various reasons. In the next practical tip, we will introduce you to possible reasons and solutions.