Google Maps: 5+1 secrets every driver should know -How to activate them 2026

Many drivers use the Google Maps app every day, but few use it to its full potential.

The most popular driver application offers a wide range of features, some of which are widely known and some of which are less known. However, it is important to know which are the most basic, since they make driving in the city easier, more economical and also safer, especially in traffic jam conditions.

Below we have collected the most important functions that you may not know about:

1. Plan your departure time accurately

After entering your start and destination address, and selecting "Directions", then select the three dots next to your start address. In the "Set departure or arrival time" option, we enter the arrival time, and then Google Maps will calculate the ideal departure time, based on the traffic on the roads and the existing peak hours.

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2. Choose routes based on fuel economy

After choosing a destination, you can activate the option "Routes with more efficient consumption of fuel". So Google maps will suggest routes with the most fuel efficient consumption, based on defaults for similar arrival times.

3. Save your parking position

Once you've parked, tap the blue dot showing where you are on the map, then 'Save Parking Location'. You can also add photos, notes and a timer for theparking duration, which will inform you when the time duration you set is up. So once you've parked, select the blue location dot, then 'Save Parking Location'.

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4. Download the maps for offline navigation

While most of us live in places with a good internet connection, some routes may lead to remote places with poor signal. If you are planning such a trip, be sure to download the maps for offline use.

To download the maps, tap your profile icon and then select 'Offline Maps'. Click on 'Choose your own map' and then you are prompted to select the area for which you wish to download the maps. All you need to do is move the blue rectangle to the area you intend to visit and press download.

5. Share your location

Google Maps also allows you to share your location with other app users in real time. This may sound a little strange, but it can be useful for your security since you can allow close friends or family members to track your location for a period of time.

This feature is also useful when you go to a friend's house and they want to see how far you are. To share your location with your friends, press your profile icon and select "Share location".

6. Compare fuel prices at gas stations

One of the most interesting features of the app is the ability it gives drivers to compare fuel prices at gas stations. All you have to do is open the app and type in “gas stations” or “gas stations.”

All available stations will then appear, most of them with the price they charge for 95 octane unleaded. However, if you choose a gas station, you can also find out the prices of other fuels.

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