Navigation Apps are to travelers what the compass was to Columbus and though Columbus may have lost his way, the navigation apps these days always let you know where you are going. The best ones are an asset when you are visiting a new place and wish to explore to your heart’s content. Whenever we talk about navigation apps the first one that comes up is Google Maps, but just in case you wish to explore what else is out there here is a list of some of the best.
Take A Look At The Navigations Apps That Stand Out
The Best Bet- Google Maps
The data-driven simplicity of Google Maps puts it at the top of the list. For everyday use, the app offers its users ETAs to their destinations on live traffic data. The app also outlines heavy traffic routes via real-time GPS navigation, automatically re-routing based on current conditions that include accidents and road closures. The best part the app also provides routes using alternative transport like bikes, trains and even walking. It provides real-time transit information enabling its users to find the best public transport option as well.
Any traveler would truly appear the appears ability to curate a library of local restaurants, events, and bars which also includes the must-try places in the area. The app also helps you to navigate inside places like malls, airports, stadiums, and buildings. This navigation is the best one out there. The footprint is global—and reliable, and it also includes offline maps to search and navigate via your device’s GPS without Wi-Fi or data coverage. Other Google features, like street view and satellite images, are also baked into the app and the best thing being it doesn’t cost you a penny.
The Best Alternative, HERE WeGo
Previously known as Nokia HERE, Here WeGo is of the few serious alternatives to Google Maps. It features a simple, elegant interface with mapping options all over the world. The app allows you to download offline maps of entire countries, giving you access to directions irrespective of the availability of an internet connection. The UI of the app is excellent and turn-by-turn voice guidance is available. Users also have access to public transit information for over 1,300+ cities around the world making it a useful navigation app for travelers. This app is also free to use, though ads are included, but aren’t intrusive to user experience.
Avoid traffic, Use Waze
Acquired by Google in 2013, Waze uses the same real-time traffic data to assist its users. The app however distinguishes itself as being relevant mainly to people who wish to drive to their destinations and wish to avoid traffic, speed camera, and even the police. If real-time data indicates unexpected traffic, an accident, or other obstacles the app would suggest alternate routes to its users which may seem obtuse but will ensure they are time-saving. The app also has elements of gamification, letting you add to the sea of data it processes by reporting cops, accidents, or other obstacles. With the release of the iOS 12 update, it’s now Apple CarPlay-friendly, and you can also choose to play music and podcasts through the app itself.
Siri’s partner, Apple Maps
When released Apple Maps received a fair degree of criticism, hence many are skeptical about it. However, Apple has successfully managed to fix the bug in the app and it is now universally reliable. Apple Maps includes turn-by-turn spoken directions, pro-active suggestions to choose the right lane, as well as interactive 3D maps, and a whole bunch of roadside attractions, broken down by categories like food, drinks, shopping, services, and health. The app has the function of recording where you have parked your car with ease. The app has a sophisticated search engine that can be more narrowly focused by using phrases. Maps also interact with other apps allowing its users to book a table for a reservation or even book and pay for an Uber.
Your Public transport Buddy, Citymapper
There may be quite a few navigation apps that focus on public transportation, but the Citymapper focuses entirely only on these transportation options. The app taps into real-time data in a legion of cities throughout the world to provide optimal routes via bus, subway, train, or foot. Because of this data, the app allows you to get wherever you are going faster. The app fascinatingly also guides you to the best individual subway car and suggests the most efficient exit to take in countries where subways are accessible. The sleek interface of the app also allows you to compare the multiple options at a glance and also view information on share bikes, mopeds, scooters, and car services. Citymapper has nav support for cities in the United States, Australia, Latin America, Europe, and parts of Asia.
For offline searches, OsmAnd
OsmAnd focuses on providing maps that can be viewed offline. This offline feature is very rare when it comes to navigation services. The app is perfect for traveling to places where internet access may not be available. Some other features include turn-by-turn navigation, an offline search, maps for things other than driving, and more. It’s probably not as good as something like Google Maps for online use, but it’s among the best offline GPS apps available right now.
The simple yet effective, Maps.Me
One of the least flashy navigation apps, Maps.me makes up for its impeccable content. It is one of the most detail-oriented navigation apps containing highly detailed maps of some of the most isolated and unknown places. It features offline maps, turn-by-turn directions, and updated maps via OpenStreetMap. There are also bookmarking locations, offline searching, traffic data (where available), and worldwide support. Maps.me is about as close to a competitor to Google Maps as it gets. The app is completely free with a few ads, but they aren’t a big deal.
All-in-one Navigation Service, Polaris
Polaris is the perfect app if you wish to have all access to multiple navigation services via one app. The app provides you access to Google Maps, OpenStreetMap, MapQuest, and Cycle Route Maps. It features multiple coordinate formats, trail recording, a unique waypoint management system, and your standard stuff like turn-by-turn directions. The app also has some specialized features for camping, fishing, camping, hunting, and various other outdoor activities. The app functions pretty well as an all-in-one navigation service but it does look dated.
Also Read: 5 Eco-Friendly Apps To Make You A Conscious Traveller
These Apps Meet All Of Your Navigation Needs
There you have it, a few of the navigation apps available for all of your navigating needs. They are great for your travels or just your day-to-day needs. If we have missed any of your favorite navigation apps, do let us know in the comments below.
