If you’ve ever gotten lost on holiday, then you know it can be stressful. While wandering the streets of an unfamiliar destination can be exhilarating and allow you to explore, if you have reservations booked it’s less than ideal. 

That’s why travel expert Neil Atkinson, owner of Luxury Group Stay, has shared his top tip for never getting lost – and it’s all about going old school. Neil said: “Downloading an offline map of the area you’re travelling to is one of the most important travel hacks I always recommend. It’s completely free and can save you hours of stress, whether you’re exploring the Lake District or wandering through Barcelona.”

If you find yourself without data to map where you’re going, this will save you time and stress.

Just make sure you have downloaded the map while you have an internet connection. Neil said: “I always tell people to do it before leaving home, or at least while still on hotel Wi-Fi.”

There are downsides but they are minor. Neil said: “You’ll only get driving directions when offline, not public transport routes, and you won’t see real-time traffic updates.”

Offline maps don’t take up much storage for cities or local areas, so you shouldn’t worry about space when downloading them.

Neil’s final tip is to make sure you have what you need before you leave. He said:”Make sure to download a wider area than you think you’ll need. Better to have too much map than too little when you’re in the middle of nowhere!”

To download a map, use these instructions:

1. Open your Google Maps app on your iPhone or Android device

2. Tap your profile picture in the top right corner

3. Select “Offline maps” then “Select your own map”

4. Adjust the blue box to cover your destination

5. Click “Download” and you’re set