Getting Started: Maps, GPS & Navigation
All your daily routes are built into Google Maps and you can find them on each day page. There is also the option to download a GPX file if you have a sat-nav where you can upload the fixed route. Follow the advice below to make sure your journey runs smoothly.
Google Maps
On CarPlay or Android Auto
The good news: your route will start automatically. Just plug in, open Maps, find your day’s route, and tap “Go.” You’re done.
On Your Phone
To actually start the route (not just preview it), you need to change the first waypoint:
- Open your day’s route in Google Maps
- Tap the first point (your starting location)
- Change it to “Current Location”
- Tap “Go” — Maps will now start navigation from wherever you actually are
If Maps Closes or You Exit the Route
This is important: remove all the waypoints you’ve already driven through before you restart.
Why? If you don’t, Maps will see your current location, notice you’re miles away from the start, and send you back where you came from instead of forward to where you need to go.
Quick fix: Swipe left on each completed waypoint to delete it, then restart the route. The navigation will pick up from your current position.
Offline Google Maps
Download the Google Maps map data for the regions you’re driving through. This way, if you lose signal, you still have the map — you just won’t have live traffic or real-time rerouting.
How to download:
- In Google Maps, search for a region or city (France, Italy, Austria, Germany, Netherlands)
- Tap the name at the bottom of the screen
- Tap “Download” — Maps will save the map data to your phone
Do this before you leave the UK. Cellular data in Europe is expensive, and you’ll want the map cached locally just in case.
GPX Files (Ultimate Backup)
Every day has a GPX file — a frozen, static route file that won’t replan or lose signal. Load these into your satnav or phone before you leave.
What is a GPX file? It’s your route as a collection of waypoints — pure data that works offline and doesn’t change mid-drive.
How to use it:
- Dedicated satnav (Garmin, TomTom): Transfer the GPX to your device before departure
- Phone apps: Apps like Komoot or AllTrails import GPX files directly
The Golden Rule
Your first waypoint is always “Current Location” (on phone) or automatic (on CarPlay). Everything else follows in order. Trust the route — these roads are verified and the waypoints are placed where they matter: passes, towns, lunch stops, and your hotel.
Safe roads, and enjoy the drive.
