Offline maps and an eSIM: give each one a job

In Google Maps, use the profile menu’s Offline maps > Select your own map route where offered and download an area covering the airport, accommodation and places you need first. Availability varies by country and region, so check that the destination can actually be downloaded.

Open the saved area with Wi-Fi and mobile data off before departure. Keep the accommodation address, pickup meeting point and booking reference separately as text or saved documents too; that way a missing map feature doesn’t also take the essential details with it.

Google’s offline guidance says public-transport, cycling and walking directions aren’t available offline. Offline driving lacks live traffic and alternative routes, so save the specific first transfer instructions while connected rather than relying on a downloaded area to reproduce a live journey planner.

Use mobile data for live transport, updated search, booking messages or rideshare where those services operate. Downloading a city map doesn’t place a rideshare booking or establish the next train’s current status.

Save the setup email before flying, then install on working Wi-Fi after arrival. Complete the sign-in and load a normal webpage first; if the airport network won’t do that, use hotel Wi-Fi or another steady trusted connection.

Choose the travel eSIM for mobile data and use the order’s roaming/APN instructions, keeping home-line data roaming and automatic switching off unless deliberately using the carrier’s service. Once a webpage loads with Wi-Fi off, you have tested mobile data rather than the Wi-Fi connection.

Our Google Maps data-budget guide helps estimate the features you’ll still use online. Keep larger map updates on Wi-Fi where practical and include the other apps in Plan my trip; the map isn’t the whole phone’s data budget.