Best Offline Map Apps for Travel in 2026: Complete Comparison

Planning a trip where cell service is spotty or roaming charges are steep? Offline maps are essential for travelers who want reliable navigation without depending on an internet connection. Whether you're hiking remote trails, driving through rural areas, or exploring cities abroad, the right offline map app can make or break your journey.

This comprehensive comparison covers the best offline map apps available in 2026, helping you choose the perfect app for your travel style. We'll examine features, pricing, strengths, and weaknesses for each option, plus show you how to import your existing Google Maps saved places.

Quick Recommendations

Not sure where to start? Here's our quick-pick guide based on your primary use case:

Detailed App Reviews

OsmAnd (Most Customizable)

OsmAnd is the powerhouse choice for users who want complete control over their mapping experience. Built on OpenStreetMap data, it offers unmatched depth for outdoor enthusiasts and power users.

Strengths:

• Exceptional offline capabilities with detailed map data
• Topographic maps with contour lines and hill shading
• Extensive plugin system for specialized features
• Supports GPX tracks for hiking and cycling routes
• Detailed POI information including trail difficulty ratings
• Wikipedia integration for points of interest
• Highly customizable map rendering and navigation profiles

Weaknesses:

• Steep learning curve for new users
• Interface can feel cluttered and overwhelming
• Free version limited to 7 map downloads
• Battery consumption can be high with all features enabled

Best For: Hikers, cyclists, outdoor enthusiasts, and users who want maximum customization.

Import Formats: GPX (recommended), KML, KMZ, OBF

Pricing: Free with limitations (7 downloads) / OsmAnd+ $9.99 one-time / OsmAnd Live subscription ~$3/month

For step-by-step import instructions, see our guide: How to Transfer Google Maps Saved Places to OsmAnd.

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Organic Maps (Privacy-Focused & Clean)

Organic Maps is the go-to choice for privacy-conscious travelers. This open-source app contains no ads, no tracking, and no data collection whatsoever. It's a fork of Maps.me created after that app added controversial features.

Strengths:

• Completely free with no ads or tracking
• Clean, intuitive interface that's easy to learn
• Fast performance even on older devices
• Excellent hiking and cycling route support
• Small app size and efficient map downloads
• Active open-source development community
• Supports offline search and navigation

Weaknesses:

• Fewer advanced features than OsmAnd
• No satellite imagery
• Limited customization options
• POI database less comprehensive than commercial alternatives

Best For: Privacy advocates, casual travelers, hikers who want simplicity, and users tired of ad-supported apps.

Import Formats: KML, KMZ, GPX

Pricing: Completely free, open source

For detailed import instructions, see: How to Transfer Google Maps Saved Places to Organic Maps.

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Maps.me (Popular for Travel)

Maps.me has been a traveler favorite for years, known for its lightweight map downloads and reliable offline performance. The app has had ownership changes that introduced some ads, but remains a solid choice for international travel.

Strengths:

• Very fast map downloads with small file sizes
• Works reliably in remote and developing regions
• Good coverage of tourist POIs worldwide
• Booking.com integration for accommodation
• Walking, driving, and transit directions
• Offline search functionality

Weaknesses:

• Contains ads in the free version
• Privacy concerns after 2020 ownership change
• Some users report outdated map data in certain regions
• Limited hiking-specific features compared to OsmAnd

Best For: Budget travelers, backpackers, users visiting developing countries with limited connectivity.

Import Formats: KML, KMZ, GPX

Pricing: Free with ads / Maps.me Pro removes ads for ~$5/year

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HERE WeGo (Best Offline Driving)

HERE WeGo comes from the company that provides mapping data to major automotive manufacturers. It excels at driving navigation and offers a polished, user-friendly experience.

Strengths:

• Excellent turn-by-turn voice navigation
• Traffic information available when online
• Public transit directions in many cities
• Clean, modern interface
• Reliable routing with accurate ETAs
• No ads in the free version
• Good offline search capabilities

Weaknesses:

• Limited outdoor/hiking features
• Map downloads can be large
• Less detailed POI data than OpenStreetMap-based apps
• No topographic or trail-specific maps

Best For: Road trippers, drivers in foreign countries, users who prioritize simple navigation over feature depth.

Import Formats: GPX, Collections import

Pricing: Completely free

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Google Maps (Offline Mode)

Google Maps' offline feature lets you download specific areas for use without internet. While not a dedicated offline app, it's a practical option if you're already invested in the Google ecosystem.

Strengths:

• Familiar interface most users already know
• Excellent POI data including reviews and hours
• Street View available offline in downloaded areas
• Seamless online/offline switching
• Regular map updates
• Best-in-class search functionality

Weaknesses:

• Downloaded areas expire after ~30 days (requires re-download)
• Can't download entire countries or large regions
• Requires Google account
• Limited to driving and walking (no cycling directions offline)
• Privacy concerns with Google data collection

Best For: Users who want occasional offline access without learning a new app, short trips to specific areas.

Import Formats: Does not support GPX/KML import for navigation (only exports)

Pricing: Free

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Apple Maps (Offline Mode)

Apple Maps introduced robust offline capabilities in iOS 17, making it a viable option for iPhone users. Map quality has improved dramatically in recent years.

Strengths:

• Deep integration with iOS and Apple Watch
• Clean, visually appealing map design
• Excellent turn-by-turn directions with CarPlay support
• Privacy-focused (no tracking across apps)
• Curated city guides and recommendations
• Look Around (Street View equivalent)

Weaknesses:

• iOS/macOS only (no Android support)
• Offline features newer and less mature
• Map data quality varies by region (excellent in US/Europe, weaker elsewhere)
• Limited hiking and trail information
• Cannot import GPX/KML files directly

Best For: iPhone users traveling in well-mapped regions who want seamless Apple ecosystem integration.

Import Formats: Limited (no standard GPS file import)

Pricing: Free (iOS only)

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Gaia GPS (Premium Hiking & Outdoors)

Gaia GPS is the professional-grade option for serious outdoor enthusiasts. It offers access to premium topographic maps and specialized layers that other apps can't match.

Strengths:

• Access to National Geographic Trails Illustrated maps
• USGS topographic maps and satellite imagery
• Slope angle shading for avalanche terrain assessment
• Track recording with detailed statistics
• Multiple map layer overlays
• Public land boundaries and hunting units
• Excellent for backcountry navigation

Weaknesses:

• Premium subscription required for best features
• Overkill for casual users
• Steeper learning curve than simple navigation apps
• More expensive than alternatives

Best For: Serious hikers, backpackers, hunters, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone venturing into true backcountry.

Import Formats: GPX, KML, GeoJSON

Pricing: Free basic / Gaia GPS Premium $39.99/year / Outside+ bundle available

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Feature Comparison Table

How to Import Your Google Maps Places

If you have saved places in Google Maps that you want to bring to your new offline app, you'll need to export and convert them first. Here's the process:

The Challenge

Google Takeout exports your saved places without coordinates. Most offline map apps require latitude/longitude data to import locations. This means you need to geocode your places before importing.

Quick Solution

1. Export your saved places from Google Takeout
2. Use Takeout Tools to add coordinates and convert to GPX or KML
3. Import the converted file into your chosen offline map app

For detailed instructions specific to each app:

• Transfer to OsmAnd
• Transfer to Organic Maps
• Export as GPX (works with most apps)
• Export as KML

Which App Should You Choose?

Choose OsmAnd if...

• You're a hiker, cyclist, or outdoor enthusiast
• You want maximum customization and control
• You don't mind a steeper learning curve
• You need detailed topographic information

Choose Organic Maps if...

• Privacy is your top priority
• You want a simple, clean interface
• You're a casual hiker or traveler
• You hate ads and tracking

Choose Maps.me if...

• You're backpacking through developing countries
• Storage space is limited on your device
• You want quick, lightweight map downloads
• You need reliable coverage in remote areas

Choose HERE WeGo if...

• Driving navigation is your primary need
• You want excellent voice-guided directions
• You prefer a polished, simple interface
• You need public transit information

Choose Google Maps (offline) if...

• You only need occasional offline access
• You're taking short trips to specific areas
• You want to keep using a familiar app
• POI reviews and business information are important

Choose Apple Maps if...

• You're deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem
• You use CarPlay regularly
• You travel primarily in the US or Europe
• Privacy within the Apple ecosystem matters to you

Choose Gaia GPS if...

• You're a serious backcountry traveler
• You need professional-grade topographic maps
• You're willing to pay for premium features
• You venture into areas where trail data matters

Pro Tips for Using Offline Maps

1. Download maps on Wi-Fi before your trip. Offline map files can be hundreds of megabytes. Save your mobile data and download everything while on a stable connection.

2. Download larger areas than you think you need. Plans change during travel. Having extra map coverage gives you flexibility for spontaneous detours.

3. Keep your phone charged. GPS usage drains batteries faster than normal use. Carry a power bank and enable battery saver modes when navigating.

4. Test your offline maps before leaving connectivity. Put your phone in airplane mode and verify your downloaded maps work as expected.

5. Export your saved places before traveling. Don't lose your carefully curated locations. Use Takeout Tools to convert your Google Maps places into formats your offline app supports.

6. Consider using multiple apps. OsmAnd for hiking, HERE WeGo for driving, and Google Maps when online gives you the best of each world.

7. Check map freshness. Some apps don't auto-update downloaded maps. Manually refresh your offline maps before trips to get the latest road changes and POI data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which offline map app has the best hiking trails? OsmAnd and Gaia GPS offer the most comprehensive hiking trail data. OsmAnd uses OpenStreetMap data which has excellent trail coverage in most regions. Gaia GPS provides access to premium sources like National Geographic Trails Illustrated.

Can I use these apps without ever connecting to the internet? Yes, all the dedicated offline apps (OsmAnd, Organic Maps, Maps.me, HERE WeGo, Gaia GPS) work completely offline once you've downloaded your maps. Google Maps and Apple Maps require initial downloads but then work offline in those areas.

Do offline map apps use GPS without internet? Yes. GPS is a satellite-based system that works independently of cell service or Wi-Fi. All these apps use your device's GPS receiver to determine your location without any internet connection.

Which app has the smallest download sizes? Maps.me is known for having the most compact map files, making it ideal for users with limited storage or slow connections.

Can I import my Google Maps saved places into these apps? Most apps support GPX or KML import. However, Google Takeout exports lack coordinates, so you'll need to geocode your places first using a tool like Takeout Tools.

Are these apps safe for navigation in foreign countries? Yes, these apps are widely used by travelers worldwide. For critical navigation in remote areas, we recommend downloading your maps in advance and carrying a backup navigation method.

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Take Your Places Offline

Export saved places to GPX for any offline map app

Try Takeout Tools →

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Free Tools

Have GPX or KML files? Use our free browser-based tools:

• GPX Validator - Check your GPX file for errors and data quality issues
• KML Validator - Check your KML file for errors and data quality issues
• KML to GPX Converter - Convert KML files to GPX format
• GPX to KML Converter - Convert GPX files to KML format

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See Other Export Guides

Need help with a specific format or destination app? Check out these guides:

• How to Export Google Maps Saved Places (All Formats)
• How to Transfer Google Maps Saved Places to OsmAnd
• How to Transfer Google Maps Saved Places to Organic Maps
• How to Export Google Maps Saved Places as GPX
• How to Export Google Maps Saved Places as KML
• Export Google Maps Places to CSV with Coordinates