Designing custom routes on Google Maps is a handy feature that allows you to create a personalized path from one location to another. By following a few simple steps, you can tailor your route to avoid highways, tolls, or to include specific waypoints. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive or navigating a busy city, custom routes can make your journey more enjoyable and efficient.
Step by Step Tutorial: Designing Custom Routes on Google Maps
Before diving into the steps, it’s important to know that designing custom routes on Google Maps can help you plan your trip better. You can choose the most scenic roads, avoid traffic-congested areas, or make sure you hit all the must-see spots along the way.
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Open Google Maps on your computer or smartphone.
When you open Google Maps, make sure you’re signed in with your Google account to save and access your custom routes later.
Step 2: Enter Your Starting Point and Destination
Click on the “Directions” button and enter your starting point and destination.
You can type in addresses, place names, or even coordinates. If you’re using the app, you can use your current location as the starting point.
Step 3: Add Stops or Waypoints
Click on “Add destination” to include additional stops or waypoints in your route.
You can rearrange the order of your stops by dragging and dropping them in the list. This is crucial if you want to optimize your route for the shortest travel time or distance.
Step 4: Customize Your Route
Drag and drop the route line to include or avoid specific roads or areas.
This step is where you get to be creative. If there’s a particular road or area you want to see or avoid, simply click and drag the route line. Google Maps will automatically update the route.
Step 5: Save Your Custom Route
Once you’re happy with the custom route, click on the three dots next to the “Your location” search bar and select “Send directions to your phone” or “Save.”
Saving your route allows you to access it later from any device signed into your Google account. You can also send it to your phone for easy navigation on the go.
After completing these steps, you’ll have a personalized route that fits your preferences and needs. You can use this route right away or save it for future use.
Tips for Designing Custom Routes on Google Maps
- Always check for real-time traffic updates before starting your journey to ensure the custom route is still optimal.
- Use the “Avoid tolls” and “Avoid highways” options for more customization.
- Consider adding landmarks or points of interest as waypoints to enrich your travel experience.
- If you’re planning a long road trip, add stops for rest areas or food options.
- Share your custom route with fellow travelers so everyone is on the same page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I create custom routes on Google Maps mobile app?
Yes, you can create custom routes using the Google Maps mobile app by following similar steps to those outlined above.
How many stops or waypoints can I add to my custom route?
Google Maps allows you to add up to nine stops or waypoints to your custom route.
Can I save multiple custom routes on Google Maps?
Yes, you can save multiple custom routes by giving each a unique name and saving it to your Google account.
Is it possible to share my custom route with others?
Absolutely! You can share your custom route by clicking on the “Share” option and sending the link to others.
Will my custom route sync across devices?
As long as you’re signed into the same Google account, your custom routes will sync across all your devices.
Summary
- Open Google Maps.
- Enter your starting point and destination.
- Add stops or waypoints.
- Customize your route by dragging and dropping the route line.
- Save your custom route.
Conclusion
Designing custom routes on Google Maps is not only fun but also incredibly useful. Whether you’re planning a road trip, running errands, or just looking for a new way to explore your city, these personalized paths can help you make the most of your travels. With the ability to avoid certain roads, add specific waypoints, and save routes for later, the possibilities are virtually endless. Remember to keep an eye on traffic and road conditions, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different routes. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite road or hidden gem along the way. So go ahead, give it a try, and take control of your journey with custom routes on Google Maps.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.