It is a frequently encountered situation to be caught in traffic or desiring to take a different route to reach our destination. Regardless of the cause, Google Maps enables us to discover alternative routes with ease. This article will walk you through the process of finding alternate routes on Google Maps.
Using Google Maps on a Desktop:
If you’re using Google Maps on your computer, follow these steps to find alternate routes:
- Open Google Maps on your desktop browser.
- Type your destination in the search box and hit ‘Enter’
- Click on the ‘Directions’ button, usually found on the left side of the screen.
- Enter your starting point in the field that appears.
- Google Maps will automatically suggest the fastest route, but to see alternate routes, look for a button labelled ‘Options’. Clicking on it will reveal other possible routes.
- Review the alternatives offered and select the one that best suits your needs.
Using Google Maps on Mobile Devices:
If you’re using the Google Maps app on a mobile device, the steps are slightly different but still straightforward:
- Open the Google Maps app on your device.
- Tap the ‘Directions’ button and enter your destination.
- Enter your starting point.
- The app will automatically suggest a route, but you can see alternatives by tapping on ‘Routes’.
- Review the suggested alternative routes and select the one that best suits your needs.
Google Maps uses real-time traffic data to suggest the fastest route. It also gives you an estimated time of arrival (ETA) for each route. This feature is particularly helpful when planning your journeys, especially during peak traffic hours.
A Word of Caution
While Google Maps is a powerful tool for navigation, it’s always essential to stay aware of your surroundings and use your judgement when following suggested routes. Some routes might lead you through areas with poor road conditions or high-crime areas, so always make sure to consider that when selecting your route.
We hope this guide will help you navigate your way more efficiently using Google Maps. Safe travels!