Ever found yourself wandering around a new city, trying to load a map while your mobile data silently disappears in the background? We’ve all been there…and wondered where there was exactly.

When you’re overseas, you want your data for the stuff that matters – like checking in with loved ones or uploading holiday pics worth bragging about. Not worrying about where you’ve ended up.

The good news? A tiny bit of prep before you leave your hotel Wi‑Fi for the day can save you a lot of data later. Downloading maps to your phone means you can navigate like a pro without using a single MB of your allowance.

So let us be your guide to downloading offline maps on both Google Maps and Apple Maps. That way, you’ll know where to go without worrying about data. This trick is a must‑know for anyone travelling outside iD Mobile’s Inclusive Roaming destinations.

Google Maps makes downloading offline areas super simple - and once you’ve saved a map, you can use it exactly as you would online. Perfect for city breaks, road trips or anywhere with patchy signal. Step-by-step guide:

1. Open Google Maps on your phone.
2. Tap your profile picture (top-right corner).
3. Select Offline Maps.
4. Choose Select Your Own Map.
5. Pinch and zoom to frame the exact area you need - whether it’s just the city centre or the whole region.
6. Tap Download.

iPhone users finally get access to proper offline maps - and it’s brilliant. If you’re on iOS 17 or newer, you can download maps directly inside Apple Maps just like you would on Google Maps. How to do it:

1. Open Apple Maps.
2. Tap your profile icon.
3. Select Offline Maps.
4. Choose Download New Map.
5. Search for the location you’re visiting.
6. Tap Download.

It’s totally seamless.

Once your map is saved, Apple Maps works almost identically offline. You’ll still get turn‑by‑turn directions, be able to search for restaurants or attractions and see your GPS position in real time. All without touching your data allowance.

If you love exploring, offline maps are one of those small hacks that make a huge difference to how stress‑free your trip feels.

Zero data usage

Many people are surprised to learn this, but GPS doesn’t use data - it works via satellite.
If your map is downloaded, your phone can still:

• Track your location
• Plot walking or driving routes
• Update your position in real time

…all without costing you a penny.

Perfect for non-inclusive roaming destinations

If you’re travelling within one of iD Mobile’s 50 Inclusive Roaming destinations, you can use your data allowance just like you do at home. But if you’re heading somewhere outside that zone, offline maps are a lifesaver.

By downloading maps on Wi‑Fi before you leave, you avoid:

• Accidental data usage
• Unexpected roaming charges
• Stress when you lose connection

It’s the simplest way to stay in control while still enjoying the freedom to explore.

Extra peace of mind with iD Mobile’s Bill Capping

Pair offline maps with iD Mobile’s Bill Capping feature and you’ve got total control over your spending abroad. With your cap in place, you’re protected from surprise costs. Whether that’s an app updating or a background service you forgot to disable.

So, whether you’re wandering a new city or heading off the beaten track, downloading offline maps is one of the easiest ways to travel smarter. Here’s what you need to remember:

• Download maps over Wi‑Fi to save your data for the fun stuff.
• GPS works without data, so offline navigation is completely free once saved.
• A must‑use trick when travelling outside iD Mobile’s Inclusive Roaming areas.

So, going somewhere nice soon? Let us know where you'll be using your offline maps in the comments.