Travelers' preferred method of navigating the road has shifted away from cumbersome, difficult-to-fold paper maps and even printed internet driving directions, thanks to the nearly universal availability of GPS systems embedded into automobiles and smartphones. Even said, there are instances when having a mapping backup in case of poor cellular connection, or even just to create your own picturesque route, is a good idea. Because the majority of driving directions websites and apps are free, you can afford to use two at the same time. With this look at the top possibilities, you can make an informed decision:
Rand McNally has a map-making heritage that stretches back to 1856, but the corporation was a touch late to the party, offering free driving instructions online only in 1999, a decade after the rest of the world.
Consider using Rand McNally for instructions if you haven't already, especially if you are planning a long journey that will include numerous stages. If you want to personalize your route, you may do so on Rand McNally's website. The site will recognize any address format, so even if you're not sure of your final destination, their interface should be able to navigate you there.
However, they are not as accurate as some of the other maps and instructions websites, so proceed with caution.
The American Automobile Association (commonly known as AAA) provides its TripTik Travel Planner service for free online, and it also allows you to print a paper version, similar to its old-style TripTik maps, for your convenience.
However, the instructions that are created are sometimes somewhat confusing, and while they will get you to your destination, they may not be the most direct way. It is possible to pick a picturesque route with a single click, which makes this tool worthwhile to use if you want to appreciate the trip as much as the destination.
Be warned: the AAA website includes an unpleasant feature that requires you to enter your zip code before you can access any of the material. This is an unnecessary and inconvenient step that you should avoid taking.
MapQuest, which has been on the web since 1996, has been overtaken in recent years by competitors such as Google Maps and Apple Maps. MapQuest has had challenges with the accuracy of its instructions for quite some time, but newer incarnations of its driving directions website have improved the accuracy considerably.
For example, current traffic conditions and anticipated gasoline costs based on current pricing are two of MapQuest's most useful features, according to the company. While MapQuest has lost its position at the top of the list of map providers, its app and online driving instructions are still available for free, making it a decent backup choice to your smartphone's built-in navigation system when traveling.
Waze includes many of the same basic capabilities as other mapping programs, but it also incorporates a social component that is the app's distinguishing feature. In 2013, Waze was acquired by Google, but it had already established itself as the preferred method of crowdsourcing instructions. For example, you may receive notifications from other drivers about potential traffic jams, construction zones, or speed traps along your route. Users may also link their Spotify accounts to the Waze app, allowing them to listen to the perfect driving music while on the road.
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