How to create a custom route on Google Maps iPhone?

Taking the Wheel: Crafting Custom Routes on Google Maps for iPhone

Google Maps on your iPhone offers far more than just point-A-to-point-B navigation. It’s a powerful tool allowing you to curate your journey, avoiding frustrating detours and optimizing your travel time. This guide will walk you through creating truly custom routes, ensuring your next trip is precisely tailored to your preferences.

Forget generic routes; take control with these steps:

1. Planning Your Journey:

Begin by inputting your starting point and destination in the Google Maps search bar. The app will immediately offer a suggested route. However, this is just the starting point of your customization.

2. Unveiling the Route Options:

Before confirming your route, tap the “Directions” button. You’ll then see a detailed breakdown of your suggested route, including the estimated time of arrival and distance. Importantly, look for the three vertical dots (more options) typically located in the upper-right corner of the screen. Tap this.

3. Refining Your Route: The Power of Preferences:

Here’s where the customization magic happens. The “More options” menu provides several crucial choices:

• Avoid Tolls: Tick this box to bypass toll roads entirely, saving you money and potentially time spent navigating toll booths.

• Avoid Highways: Perfect for scenic routes or if you prefer quieter, local roads. This option is ideal if you’re comfortable with potentially longer travel times.

• Avoid Ferries: A simple yet effective option for those wanting to remain on dry land.

• Add a Stop: This feature allows you to integrate additional locations into your route, perfect for grabbing coffee, picking up supplies, or visiting a landmark along the way. Simply tap “Add stop” and input your desired location. You can add multiple stops.

• Specify Transport Type: While the default is usually driving, you can select walking, cycling, or public transport to tailor the route to your preferred mode of travel. Each option generates a completely different route optimized for that specific transport method.

4. Visual Inspection and Fine-Tuning:

Once you’ve selected your preferences, Google Maps will recalculate your route. Carefully examine the suggested path on the map. Does it look logical and practical? Are there any segments you’d prefer to avoid?

Google Maps often defaults to the fastest route; however, it doesn’t always consider factors like road conditions or personal preferences. Use the map to visually assess the route and consider any necessary adjustments.

5. Embark on Your Personalized Journey:

Once you’re satisfied with your custom route, initiate navigation. Remember, Google Maps will constantly monitor traffic conditions and suggest alternative routes if necessary, but your initial customization will form the foundation of your journey.

By following these steps, you can transform Google Maps from a simple navigation tool into a powerful ally for creating personalized and efficient journeys tailored precisely to your needs. Enjoy the ride!