Does anyone use a nav system other than their phone in the car?

[vash]

Originally Posted by Paul_Heery

It seems that no one in this thread is aware that you can download regions of Google Maps to your phone. The GPS function will work without being online and if you have downloaded the maps for your route, the navigation works fine.

A few months ago, I was in Joshua Tree National Park where there is no cell service. I was able to navigate to trailheads within the park and also find my way to exits without issue.

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.

[vash]

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

[JackDidley]

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

[rockfan4]

Originally Posted by Paul_Heery

It seems that no one in this thread is aware that you can download regions of Google Maps to your phone. The GPS function will work without being online and if you have downloaded the maps for your route, the navigation works fine.

A few months ago, I was in Joshua Tree National Park where there is no cell service. I was able to navigate to trailheads within the park and also find my way to exits without issue.

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.

[stevej37]

TripTik from AAA
No cell service or GPS needed.

[rwest]

Originally Posted by stevej37

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.

[stevej37]

Originally Posted by rwest

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)

.

[Tobra]

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

[911_Dude]

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!

[TimT]

For the luddites:

Mapquest

Welcome to 1996

[john70t]

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.

[Otter74]

“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.