When using Google Maps for navigation, sometimes the suggested route may not be the most convenient or preferred one. Whether you want to avoid tolls, highways, or just prefer a different path, you can actually force Google Maps to take a certain route. In this article, we will discuss various methods to customize your route and ensure you reach your destination using your preferred route.
1. Use Different Starting or Ending Points
– **Change Starting Point:** One simple way to force Google Maps to take a different route is by changing your starting point. By adjusting your starting location slightly, you can influence the algorithm to provide a different set of directions.
– **Modify Ending Point:** Similarly, altering your destination point can also result in Google Maps suggesting a different route. Try moving your destination slightly to see if it changes the recommended path.
2. Add Waypoints
– **Divide Your Route:** By adding waypoints or intermediate stops along your journey, you can effectively steer Google Maps towards your desired route. Simply click on the “+ Add Destination” option on the desktop or tap the “Add stop” button on the mobile app to insert waypoints.
– **Manipulate Route:** You can strategically place waypoints to force Google Maps to take a specific path. Drag and drop the waypoints to adjust the route according to your preferences.
3. Avoid Highways, Tolls, or Ferries
– **Customize Route Options:** Google Maps allows users to customize their route preferences by avoiding highways, toll roads, or ferries. Click on the three horizontal lines in the top left corner and select “Route options” to adjust these settings according to your preferences.
– **Select Preferences:** Under Route options, you can toggle the switches for highways, tolls, and ferries on or off based on your preferred route criteria. By disabling certain options, Google Maps will provide alternative routes that avoid these elements.
4. Drag and Drop Route
– **Manually Adjust Route:** Another method to force Google Maps to take a certain route is by manually dragging and dropping the route line on the map. Click and hold the blue route line on the map, then drag it to the desired road or path to create a custom route.
– **Real-Time Changes:** As you drag the route line, Google Maps will update the directions and estimated time accordingly. This feature allows you to visually create a personalized route on the map itself.
5. Save Custom Routes
– **Save Routes:** After customizing your route, you can save it for future reference. Click on the three dots next to the starting point and select “Add route to My Maps.” This will save your customized route under My Maps for easy access in the future.
– **Access Saved Routes:** To access your saved routes, click on the hamburger menu in the top left corner and navigate to “Your places” > “Maps.” Here, you will find your saved routes under the “Saved” tab for quick reference.
6. Use Third-Party Apps
– **Alternative Navigation Apps:** If you find it challenging to force Google Maps to take a certain route, consider using third-party navigation apps that offer more advanced route customization features. Apps like Waze, MapQuest, or Here WeGo provide additional options for manipulating routes.
– **Experiment with Apps:** Experiment with different navigation apps to find one that best suits your routing preferences. Some apps may offer more flexibility in route adjustments and real-time traffic updates.
7. Avoid Traffic and Incidents
– **Check Traffic Conditions:** Google Maps considers real-time traffic data when calculating routes. By avoiding congested areas or incidents, you can influence the suggested route. Keep an eye on the traffic layer on the map to make informed decisions.
– **Re-route Automatically:** If Google Maps detects heavy traffic or accidents along your current route, it may automatically suggest an alternative path. Stay updated with real-time traffic alerts to ensure you are taking the most efficient route.
8. Use Offline Maps
– **Download Maps:** To ensure you can force Google Maps to take a certain route even when offline, download maps for offline use. This feature comes in handy when navigating areas with poor internet connectivity.
– **Customize Offline Routes:** While using offline maps, you can still customize your route by adding waypoints and adjusting preferences before going offline. Google Maps will navigate you based on the pre-set route even without an internet connection.
By utilizing these methods, you can effectively force Google Maps to take a certain route that aligns with your preferences and requirements. Whether you want to avoid tolls, highways, or simply take a scenic route, these tips will help you navigate with ease and flexibility. Remember to plan ahead and experiment with different options to find the best route for your journey.
