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Original poster

What do you all do for sat-nav these days?

129 replies

WorkerBeeeee · 10/10/2022 15:54

Hello

I've always relied on a TomTom mounted on my dashboard. I liked that it was separate to my phone. But TomToms seem to becoming obsolete with everyone just using Google Maps?

Google Maps doesn't give you speed trap warnings does it? Is it any good for real-time traffic updates eg avoid certain routes? I suppose it must be good for having up to date maps eg when new roads are built.

How does Google Maps link it with What 3 Words which I've just discovered?

Interested in what you all do.

Thanks

OP posts:
GoldenOlden · 10/10/2022 15:55

Waze is the best I have found.

vodkaredbullgirl · 10/10/2022 15:56

Don't use anything, just drive and hope to get there lol.

SlipperyLizard · 10/10/2022 15:57

I also use Waze, which is powered by Google maps but has loads of features like finding petrol stops & restaurants on the way.

The only downside is that if you’re in an area with limited signal then it can “lose” you. I used to use the TomTom app for that reason (as it downloads the maps) but it has an annual subscription & I’d just discovered waze.

PuttingDownRoots · 10/10/2022 15:58

In car Sat Nav on the one that has it.

Google maps in the other. It gives the best route when you set off, not sure if updates traffic conditions

Plus an A-Z for those road closures which want to send you via Timbuktu and you just want to know where you are going.

ShadowPuppets · 10/10/2022 15:59

Just the maps app on my iPhone, connected via apple play. Always warns me about speed cameras etc.

Bluevelvetsofa · 10/10/2022 16:05

The car sat nav. It warns me about speed cameras and I can see petrol stations etc on screen.

MrsCarson · 10/10/2022 16:06

I use google maps and connect it to my car so it's on the big screen in the middle of the dashboard. Or I just use the built in maps.

Original poster
WorkerBeeeee · 10/10/2022 16:08

Oh yes, i'd forgotten some cars have it built in!

Hmmm....i still like the idea of having it separate to my phone. To avoid wasting battery and so I could still easily use my phone in an emergency.

Maybe I could have a separate, cheap phone JUST for whatever navigation app(s) I'm using.

I'm probably overcomplicating things!!

OP posts:
BamBamBilla · 10/10/2022 16:10

Waze. It gives warnings for speed traps and red light cameras. Also gives the live traffic flow updates.

Original poster
WorkerBeeeee · 10/10/2022 16:10

A lot of recommendations for Waze! See this is why I love MN, I learn so much!

Thanks!

OP posts:
shmiz · 10/10/2022 16:11

Waze

Autumn101 · 10/10/2022 16:13

100% Waze, used it in numerous countries and it’s never failed me!

I have my phone plugged into the car so the instructions come through the speakers too which is helpful as well as not using up my battery

OakleyStreetisnotinChelsea · 10/10/2022 16:15

I just use Google maps, I plug my phone in so it shows on the big screen through android auto and my phone is charging so doesn't waste battery. It usually shows road closures and traffic problems and let's you know about speed cameras.

Original poster
WorkerBeeeee · 10/10/2022 16:19

I'm just playing with Google Maps now and it does have warning signs for roadworks on my route but says it is "best route now". It also has warning signs for traffic cameras at certain points on the map but I wonder if it gives you a warning out loud as you approach them. Will need to experiment.

OP posts:
Atmywitsend29 · 10/10/2022 16:20

I have an infotainment satnav thing, but it is a bit shit. So I might come up to a road closed and the sat Nav won't reroute around it.

So I normally use waze on my personal phone if I have data, and connect via Bluetooth so I can have music and verbal instructions for driving. Or I use Google maps on my work phone if I have no data

isthismylifenow · 10/10/2022 16:20

Another Waze user here.

I just cannot get on with Google maps.

I don't have an in car system either so I just use it on my phone. Old school here, or I plug it into the aux to come through the radio speakers.

I should add in here that if you planned on voice noting anyone while Waze is on, you are likely to deafen the receiver of said message if she speaks at the same time 🤭

I have a Tom Tom in the cubby hole which hasn't seen the light of day for a good few years. I really am not paying them to update a map when Waze does it just as well (actually better), and free.

Atmywitsend29 · 10/10/2022 16:21

WorkerBeeeee · 10/10/2022 16:19

I'm just playing with Google Maps now and it does have warning signs for roadworks on my route but says it is "best route now". It also has warning signs for traffic cameras at certain points on the map but I wonder if it gives you a warning out loud as you approach them. Will need to experiment.

Google normally plays a "ping" sound for speed traps.

Original poster
WorkerBeeeee · 10/10/2022 16:27

@Atmywitsend29 thanks, that's helpful to know!

I'd quite like to get rid of my satnav and cables, just more clutter in the car!

OP posts:
Blowyourowntrumpet · 10/10/2022 16:30

I've just bought a new TomTom 🫢

Sniffypete · 10/10/2022 16:31

Waze is really good.

AriettyHomily · 10/10/2022 16:33

In built sat nav but it can be a bit shit so sometimes use Waze instead

BookedOut · 10/10/2022 16:35

As long as you’ve set the destination while on Wi-Fi / with signal, Waze can use GPS to keep giving you the right instructions even when there’s no mobile signal. Which has come in handy a few times.

I also find its better than google maps at telling me which lane to be in, especially when motorways merge or split and I’ve got a choice of about six and not much time to pick the right one.

Ariela · 10/10/2022 16:36

Google Earth the actual place /road before departing.

Memorise map (key route, main junctions) and go.
Stop and consult map if needed (rare).

It helps I visualise locations 'as a map' . Is clearly an inherited thing as DD1 does it too.

theemmadilemma · 10/10/2022 16:36

Google maps will initially show you the best route for the time you are looking. you can also set times to arrive/leave and it will estimate how long it will take you at that time, and which route will be best at that time.

It can also advise you of a better route along the way if it finds traffic problems ahead and you just hit accept.

BernadetteRostankowskiWolowitz · 10/10/2022 16:38

I'm surprised so many are talking about speed traps - just drive at or below the speed limit?