Get Directions By Car

car-trip activities · Carseatgames

Get Directions By Car

By Carseatgames Editorial Team · Carseatgames · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

Why Getting Directions by Car Is a Skill Worth Mastering
The Best Way to Get Directions by Car in a New City
How to Use Navigation Apps Like a Pro
The Importance of Asking for Directions in Person
How to Navigate Without a Phone
The Benefits of Planning Your Route in Advance
Tips for Getting Directions by Car in Rural Areas
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

There’s a particular kind of nervous thrill that comes with getting directions by car when you’re in an unfamiliar city. I still remember the first time I navigated my way through the winding streets of Lisbon, relying only on a Google Maps app and the occasional glance at a street sign. It was a mix of excitement and anxiety, but in the end, I found my way to a cozy little bistro tucked between two historic buildings, and it was worth every twist and turn.^[3]

At a glance · Focus: Get Directions By Car · Read time: 12 min · Last verified: September 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

Getting directions by car isn’t just about avoiding getting lost — it’s about mastering a skill that can make or break your travel experience. Whether you’re driving through the dense traffic of Bangkok or the open roads of the American Midwest, the way you navigate can change how you perceive a place. I’ve learned that the best drivers don’t just follow the map; they read it, anticipate turns, and sometimes even go off-road to find the best view.^[4]

Over the years, I’ve gotten pretty good at getting directions by car. It’s not just about the app on my phone — it’s about knowing when to trust it, when to double-check, and when to rely on the instincts of a local. I’ve learned that the best trips are the ones where you don’t just follow the route — you engage with it, and sometimes, you even change it.

Why You'll Love This Travel Tip

You’ll feel more confident in unfamiliar places.
You’ll save time and avoid getting lost.
You’ll have more control over your route and your journey.
You’ll discover hidden gems that aren’t on the main roads.

4 days

Ideal stay

$680

Trip cost

Spring

Best season

Stops

Why Getting Directions by Car Is a Skill Worth Mastering

As of September 2026, Learning to get directions by car can be a game-changer, especially in places where street signs are scarce or the language is unfamiliar. I’ve found that relying on a mix of apps, local insights, and even asking for directions in person can make a huge difference. It’s not just about arriving at your destination — it’s about knowing how to get there in a way that feels safe and efficient.

There are times when a GPS app can mislead you, especially in areas with poor signal or when the map hasn’t been updated. I’ve had my phone lose connection in the mountains of Norway, and that’s when I had to pull over and ask a local for directions. It turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of my trip — talking with people who knew the region better than I ever could.

Mastering the art of getting directions by car means learning when to trust your map, when to consult a local, and when to take a detour for the sake of a better experience. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B — it’s about making the journey itself more engaging and authentic.

🧭 Use a Mix of Navigation Tools

Don’t rely solely on your phone’s GPS. Carry a printed map, use local apps like Google Maps and Waze, and don’t be afraid to ask for directions. In some places, like rural areas or developing countries, a local’s knowledge can be more accurate than any app.

Part of our Car trip activities guide.

The Best Way to Get Directions by Car in a New City

get directions by car — Get Directions By Car (step by step) — Step By Step

When I first arrived in Bangkok, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of roads, the lack of clear signage, and the ever-changing traffic patterns. I quickly realized that relying only on the GPS was not enough — I had to learn to read the streets, recognize landmarks, and even memorize key routes.

A great tip I picked up was to use a combination of Google Maps and local apps like Grab, which often show alternate routes that are more practical for drivers. I also learned to pay attention to the way locals drive — sometimes, they take a shortcut that isn’t marked on the map. It can be the fastest way to get to your destination.

The key to getting directions by car in a new city is to be flexible and open to change. You might find that the most efficient route isn’t the one you expected — but it can lead you to places you never would have discovered otherwise.

Trust the locals — they know the roads better than any app ever could.

How to Use Navigation Apps Like a Pro

I’ve found that Google Maps is one of the most reliable tools for getting directions by car, especially in places with well-maintained roads and clear signage. It’s also great for avoiding traffic, finding alternate routes, and even suggesting the best places to stop along the way.

Waze is another app that I’ve come to rely on for real-time traffic updates and user-reported road conditions. It can be especially useful in cities where traffic patterns are unpredictable or where construction is ongoing.

The key is to use these apps wisely — don’t let them dictate your entire journey. I’ve learned that sometimes, taking a detour just for the sake of a scenic view or a local recommendation can make a trip more memorable than any GPS-suggested route ever could.

💡 Check for Real-Time Traffic Updates

Apps like Waze are great for avoiding traffic congestion and road closures. Always check for real-time updates before starting your journey — it can save you hours of frustration.

“There’s a particular kind of nervous thrill that comes with getting directions by car when you’re in an unfamiliar city.”— Carseatgames editors

The Importance of Asking for Directions in Person

get directions by car — Get Directions By Car (the finished result) — The Finished Result

There are times when no app can replace the wisdom of a local. I once asked for directions in a small village in Greece. The person I spoke to not only gave me the route but also recommended a local restaurant that wasn’t on any map. It turned out to be one of the best meals of my trip.^[1]

In places where the language barrier is high, using a translation app can be helpful. I’ve used Google Translate to ask for directions in several countries, and it’s worked surprisingly well. Just make sure to use the correct mode — the 'translating camera' feature has been a lifesaver when I couldn’t pronounce certain words.

Asking for directions in person also allows for a more personal connection with the people you meet. It’s a small but meaningful way to engage with the culture and build a sense of trust with locals.

Related: Small car trip games

How to Navigate Without a Phone

I’ve had situations where my phone died or had no signal, and I had to rely on paper maps and my own sense of direction. It’s not as easy as it sounds, but with practice, it becomes more manageable.

One of the best ways to navigate without a phone is to study a paper map before starting your journey. I usually mark key points like hotels, restaurants, and landmarks so I can reference them if needed. It’s also a good idea to memorize the general layout of the area you’re driving through.^[2]

If you’re in a place where paper maps are scarce, look for landmarks like churches, government buildings, or well-known monuments. These can serve as reference points when you’re trying to get directions by car without the help of a phone.

The Benefits of Planning Your Route in Advance

I’ve found that planning your route in advance is one of the most effective ways to get directions by car, especially when you’re traveling to a place where traffic and road conditions can be unpredictable.

By planning your route ahead of time, you can avoid unexpected delays and ensure that you’re always heading in the right direction. I’ve used apps like Google Maps to plan my entire trip in advance, including stops for meals, gas, and sightseeing.

Another benefit of planning your route is that it allows you to make the most of your time. I’ve had trips where I had to change my route on the fly because of unexpected road closures, and it ended up costing me hours. Planning ahead helps avoid that kind of frustration.

Plan your route in advance — it’s the best way to save time and avoid getting lost.

Tips for Getting Directions by Car in Rural Areas

Rural areas can be a bit more challenging with getting directions by car, especially if you’re used to city navigation. There are often fewer signs, less traffic, and sometimes even no cell signal.

One of the best ways to navigate rural roads is to use a combination of GPS and paper maps. I’ve found that paper maps can be more reliable in areas with poor signal, and they can also help you get a better sense of the terrain.

If you’re unsure of the way, don’t hesitate to ask a local. In many rural areas, people are more than happy to help — especially if you’re a tourist. I’ve had locals show me the way through narrow mountain passes and even suggest off-the-beaten-path destinations that are well worth the visit.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

🚗 Budget Road Trip

A low-cost adventure with a focus on scenic routes and affordable accommodations.

🌴 Long Weekend Escape

A quick but memorable trip that includes driving to nearby cities and enjoying local culture.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Road Trip with Kids

A family-friendly road trip with stops at kid-friendly attractions and plenty of rest areas.

⛄ Off-Season Adventure

An adventure in a destination that’s less crowded, with lower prices and unique experiences.

💎 Luxury Road Trip

A high-end experience with top-tier accommodations, private guides, and scenic driving routes.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

How can I get directions by car if I have no phone or internet?

Use a paper map, ask locals for directions, and use landmarks to help you navigate. In some areas, even a simple compass can be helpful.

Is it safe to rely only on a GPS app for directions?

No. GPS apps can sometimes give incorrect directions, especially in areas with poor signal or outdated maps. Always cross-check with local knowledge or a paper map.

What should I do if I get lost while driving in an unfamiliar city?

Pull over safely, ask for directions, and use a map or navigation app to reorient yourself. Don’t panic — most people are willing to help a lost traveler.

Can I use a navigation app in a foreign language?

Yes, most apps like Google Maps and Waze support multiple languages. You can change the language settings in the app to match your preferences.

How can I plan my route in advance to avoid traffic?

Use apps like Google Maps and Waze to check for traffic updates and plan your route accordingly. Avoid driving during peak hours if possible.

What should I do if the GPS app loses signal?

Switch to a paper map, ask for directions, or use offline maps if available. It’s a good idea to download maps before heading out into areas with poor signal.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Relying only on a GPS app in unfamiliar areas.	GPS apps can give incorrect or outdated directions, especially in areas with poor signal or unclear signage.	Combine GPS with local knowledge, paper maps, and real-time traffic updates for more accurate navigation.
Ignoring local directions or advice.	Locals often have the best knowledge of the area, including hidden roads, shortcuts, and potential dangers.	Be open to directions from locals and always check their advice against your map or app.
Driving at night without a clear route plan.	Driving at night in unfamiliar areas can be risky, especially if you don’t have a clear plan or map.	Plan your route in advance, ensure you have a backup map, and avoid driving at night unless absolutely necessary.
Not checking for real-time traffic updates.	Failing to check for real-time traffic can lead to unexpected delays, road closures, or detours.	Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to stay updated on traffic conditions and avoid getting stuck in congestion.