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Offline maps on your phone: how to download them before you need them

Offline maps keep working when signal or the internet goes down, but only if you download them first. It takes a few minutes on Wi-Fi.

Last checked 1 November 2026Applies across the UK

Google Maps

Google’s help page explains how to download an area and navigate offline. In short:

  1. Connect to the internet, open the Google Maps app and make sure you are signed in.
  2. Search for a place, such as your town.
  3. Open the place details, choose Download offline map, then Download.

Things to know, from Google:

  • Offline maps expire. If you are on Wi-Fi, they update automatically within 15 days of expiring.
  • Offline, you can get driving directions, but not walking, cycling or public transport directions, and no live traffic.

Apple Maps

On iPhone, Apple Maps has a “Download offline maps” option. Apple’s iPhone User Guide explains the steps for your iOS version.

What to download

  • Your home area, so you can find open shops, pharmacies or a warm space during a power cut.
  • Places you visit often, such as relatives you check on.
  • Any area you are travelling to.

Walking in the hills

Street-map apps do not show the detail you need for hills and moors. Carry a paper map and compass, and read finding your way without signal.

Our app

We are building our own app. It is not available yet. When it launches, the free version is planned to include one offline map area. We will say clearly what it does and does not do. Join the waitlist.

Official sources we used

  1. Download areas and navigate offline in Google Maps (Google Maps Help)
  2. iPhone User Guide (Maps: Download offline maps) (Apple Support)
  3. Calling for help (Scottish Mountain Rescue)
  4. Be AdventureSmart (AdventureSmartUK)

We link to official pages so you can check the latest advice yourself. If something here differs from what an official source says now, follow the official source. Where we quote or adapt official text, it contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.