Hidden Google Maps features to save you time and money

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It’s getting warmer, and you’re probably itching to hit the road. With gas prices still high, who doesn’t want to save money? And while you’re at it, getting to your destination faster would be nice, wouldn’t it?

Here’s how Google Maps eases your burdens on the open road.

1. Plan ahead and save on gas

The longer you spend in traffic, the more gas you’ll burn. Google Maps helps you plan a future trip, taking in predicted traffic, routes and road conditions along the way.

Here’s how to set a planned time and date for a trip:

  • Open Google Maps and tap on the Search here field.
  • Enter a destination and select it from the results.
  • Tap Directions and then the three dots button to the right of the Your location field.
  • Tap Set depart or arrive time.
  • Select Depart at and enter a date and time, then tap Done.
  • You’ll get various route options and details such as time and distance.
  • Select a route and tap Start.

2. Find cheaper gas

Quickly check gas prices in any area with Google Maps:

  • Open Googe Maps and tap Gas under the search bar.
  • You’ll see nearby gas stations and prices on the map and at the bottom of the screen.
  • Swipe your finger along the map or bottom of the screen to see more.
  • Tap Show list to see the gas stations in list form.

3. Find a place to charge your electric vehicle

Use Google Maps to find electric vehicle (EV) charging stations on the way to your destination, along with estimated wait times for a charging port. You can also filter your search by connector type to find stations compatible with your vehicle. Here’s how to get juiced up:

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Best hidden map feature that will save you money on gas

With gas prices soaring, you’ll want to find any savings at the pump. Even a few cents make a difference when you can easily spend nearly $100 to fill up your tank.

Big-box stores such as Sam’s Club and Costco offer fuel services to members. It typically costs less to fill up your car at one of these locations than at a regular gas station. But remember that membership isn’t free. Tap or click here to learn if a big-box membership is worth the reduced gas price.

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Find cheaper gas: Don’t get screwed by high gas prices on your next road trip. GasBuddy is a free app for iOS and Android that helps you find the cheapest price near you.

Use Google Maps to save big $ on gas

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Gas prices are high, and every cent you can save on a gallon adds up by the end of the year. One way to save is to use the pumps at big-box stores like Costco and Sam’s Club. A membership to shop and fuel up there isn’t free, but it could offset some of your expenses at the pump. Tap or click here to learn more.

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What is the true cost of ownership when it comes to EVs? You don’t need to fill them up with gas, but they need a power source. And that isn’t free. Aside from that, the infrastructure is not quite there yet, so you may need to drive longer to find a charger. Tap or click here to check out our report before deciding on an EV.

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People have been turning to or considering alternative fuel vehicles to reduce the impact of the climbing cost of gas. Electric cars don’t need gas to operate, so it should be cheaper to own one, right? Not exactly. Tap or click here for our report on the cost of ownership for an EV.

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