we do this when we travel.

I'm a decent homing pigeon. I just need one visit and "oh, I got this". I like my maps, but nothing beats just knowing the area. even if I have never been to a place, chances are I have been somewhere nearby. I just go for it.

I usually check in on my maps for drive times only. I like knowing what time I have to leave to get there on time.

^^^ disclaimer. unless I am driving in Los Angeles..that place screws with my inner compass.

I often use Waze even when I know where I am going. Its about 90% accurate at telling me where speed traps are.

Thank you Paul. I will try this the next time we travel out of town.
A quick google search says the downloaded maps will be read by Android Auto. The only thing that won't work is the voice commands, they do require a data connection.

TripTik from AAA
No cell service or GPS needed.

Do they still do that or is it digital download know?

Another thing I will do is to use Google Maps on my iPad and then screen shot any important sections, so I can reference the pictures if needed.

Yes, I just read somewhere online that it's still available as a digital download. I used it in the 80's frequently...a very handy map that you can use in one hand easily. If you're a member, it's free. (I think) :)

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I just get a map from AAA if going to an unfamiliar place

Ive got a nice 2022 Sprinter van with a beautiful wide screen for factory navigation. I tried to use the Mercedes maps twice and it was horrible. Takes forever to type in a destination because of clunky interface. Add to that, needing to do map updates. Even if you only updated every couple of years, its still way too expensive. Nope, if I need navigation I just use the included Carplay which uses Google or Apple maps. Easy to use, always updated. Theres no reason for car makers to design a nav system. And there is no reason to pay a lot of money for factory nav. They just need to have a great phone interface. The computer is in our pocket. Whats really needed is a factory integrated phone holder/charger on the dash.

TomTom, Garmin, and Triptics? You guys are hilarious!

For the luddites:

Mapquest

Welcome to 1996

No experience..but for offline with a PC..another possibility: https://www.herewego.info/en/here-wego/route-planning/offline-navigation/

I started to install it on the new AIbatterysucker(smartphone) but didn't agree with the TOS, as it wanted access to everything else and a loggin.
Owned by German automakers according to wiki.

“I had a map but I was too stubborn to use it” made me laugh because it is such a male stereotype. :)

I’m old enough that I learned to navigate using maps, and looking at my route and writing down directions and a little schematic map; I try to keep those skills up to date by having a visual memory of my route before I leave, but of course GPS makes it hard. My normal car is a 2013 Jetta Sportwagen TDI with the nav radio - I tried using it a few times and, while it technically worked, it was ridiculous not using my phone so that’s what I do.