7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them)

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Location History Errors Make Offline Navigation Impossible

When relying on Google Maps for offline navigation, glitches in your location history can be a major roadblock, potentially leaving you stranded in an unfamiliar place. Properly managing location settings through your Google Account is essential to prevent these disruptions. Making sure that location permissions are set correctly within the app's settings is vital for seamless navigation.

If you encounter problems like a malfunctioning Google Maps Timeline, you might be able to fix it by clearing the app's cache or restarting any live location sharing sessions. These simple steps can often restore functionality. The introduction of a new Timeline menu in the app makes it simpler to manage your location data, keeping your navigation tools in good working order when internet access is spotty.

For those seeking adventure in remote locations, navigating without internet connectivity can already be challenging. These navigational quirks can exacerbate the issue. It becomes critical to be meticulous about location settings and configurations before setting off on your journey to avoid unwelcome surprises.

Offline navigation in Google Maps depends on having accurate location history, which unfortunately isn't always a given. If your device's location data is off, the maps downloaded for offline use might contain errors. Think of it like a photograph taken with a shaky hand – the result is blurry and not quite right. Similarly, GPS signals can be unreliable in dense urban areas or indoors, leading to imprecise readings.

This can lead to situations where Google Maps believes you're somewhere you're not. Consequently, the app may direct you to an inaccurate location because it's using incorrect cached information. For instance, if the app thinks you're on a certain street, but your actual location is slightly off, it could send you down a wrong side street that doesn't exist, creating a frustrating detour during a trip.

Essentially, if the location data that forms the foundation of offline maps isn't accurate, it undermines the entire process. While Google continuously improves accuracy, relying entirely on the offline functionality can lead to significant discrepancies. Imagine downloading an offline map of a vibrant city only to realize streets and landmarks aren't depicted precisely—you might end up completely lost.

Another related point is that deleting location history makes it impossible to recover in the future. It is important to remember that location history is used for offline navigation. Clearing the cache on Android devices can resolve issues that stem from outdated data and if live location sharing is not updating, you can reset the session to refresh your location information.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Location History Errors Make Offline Navigation Impossible
2. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Missing Street Level Updates Create Wrong Turn Instructions
3. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Public Transit Time Estimates Break Down During Rush Hours
4. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Outdated Business Hours Lead To Wasted Airport Trips
5. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Incorrect EV Charging Station Status Causes Range Anxiety
6. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Inaccurate Walking Routes Through Construction Zones
7. 7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Wrong Business Locations In Remote Areas Waste Fuel

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Missing Street Level Updates Create Wrong Turn Instructions

Outdated street-level imagery within Google Maps can cause significant navigation problems, often resulting in faulty turn-by-turn directions. Imagine being guided down a road that's been redesigned or doesn't even exist anymore – it's a recipe for confusion and unexpected detours. This issue stems from Google Maps not always keeping pace with changes to road layouts, construction projects, or even the removal of old roads.

Thankfully, Google Maps offers a way to combat this. Users can actively contribute to the accuracy of the maps by adding details about missing businesses or landmarks, or even correcting outdated information regarding addresses or business hours. These contributions help ensure the data within the app remains current.

Additionally, ensuring your device's location settings are accurate and properly configured plays a critical role in precise navigation. In some instances, clearing the cache and data of the Google Maps app itself might be necessary to resolve issues stemming from stored, outdated information.

While Google continually strives to improve map accuracy, relying solely on automated updates can sometimes lead to navigation glitches. By proactively verifying information, reporting errors, and making adjustments to location settings, users can lessen the chances of encountering these problems and have a more reliable navigation experience, whether you are in a big city or on a remote countryside road.

In the intricate world of digital mapping, Google Maps has become a ubiquitous tool for travelers. However, even with its sophisticated algorithms and vast datasets, it's not immune to occasional hiccups. One such issue is the occasional discrepancy between the map data and the actual street-level conditions. This can manifest as inaccurate turn-by-turn instructions, leading to unexpected detours and frustrating experiences for users.

One reason for these errors lies in the reliance on crowdsourced information. While the ability for users to add and update details about places is a boon to map accuracy, the data quality depends on regular and consistent contributions. If areas aren't frequently updated by users, new construction, road closures, or other changes might not be reflected, creating a disconnect between the digital representation and the physical landscape.


Moreover, the dynamism of traffic patterns can also cause issues. Google Maps attempts to factor in traffic conditions in real-time, but these conditions can change rapidly. If the app isn't updated quickly enough, users might find themselves stuck in traffic because the app didn't accurately factor in a sudden traffic jam or a road closure.


Another aspect to consider is the limits of GPS technology itself. In dense urban settings, high-rise buildings or dense foliage can interfere with GPS signals, creating a slight 'drift' between where the device thinks it is and its true position. This seemingly small error can quickly translate into incorrect directions in situations where precision is key.


Interestingly, the popularity of certain routes also impacts how Google Maps calculates instructions. It prioritizes the most frequently used paths which, while convenient for some, might not always be the quickest or most direct option. Users can end up stuck in lengthy detours while a less-travelled alternative might have been faster.


The offline mode of Google Maps, while helpful for exploring areas without internet connectivity, also adds an extra layer of potential inaccuracies. Offline maps are essentially snapshots of a specific moment in time. If updates haven't been downloaded, new road construction or changes in street names can lead users astray.


Beyond navigation, there's also the matter of search accuracy. The search algorithms that power Google Maps do their best to understand what you're looking for. However, they can be sensitive to nuances in wording and rely on data that might not align precisely with user expectations.


There's also the challenge of the information Google Maps stores temporarily, or 'caches', to improve performance. This cached data can become outdated or flawed, potentially leading to inaccurate navigation. This can be especially problematic if a user clears the cache without being fully aware of the implications—losing essential data for offline map use, for example.


When users specify their preferences (like avoiding tolls or highways), these choices can lengthen routes, sometimes significantly. While this feature can be helpful, travellers might not always be cognizant of the implications of their settings.


Ongoing road construction or large-scale renovations might not be immediately integrated into the map data, leaving travellers to encounter unforeseen delays or road closures. The reliance on automatic rerouting may not always be the optimal solution because it might fail to address the original cause of the navigation issues, such as ongoing construction.


Finally, it is worth mentioning that language can also be a factor in the accuracy of directions. If a user is not proficient in the local language, it can lead to misunderstandings when interpreting street names and signs, or understanding the instructions given in the app.


While Google Maps continues to improve its capabilities and accuracy, understanding these potential issues is key to maximizing its effectiveness as a navigation tool. Travellers can become more informed navigators by being aware of these limitations and taking steps like manually reviewing routes, verifying the recency of offline map data, or manually adjusting location settings when necessary.

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Public Transit Time Estimates Break Down During Rush Hours

Public transportation schedules, especially during peak hours, can be quite unpredictable. While Google Maps attempts to provide accurate estimates, these often fall short during rush hour due to the sheer volume of people using public transit. You might find yourself facing delays that weren't predicted by the app, potentially throwing off your entire travel plans.

Google Maps offers some helpful features like setting specific departure or arrival times, which can help it calculate more accurate routes considering anticipated congestion. The commute tab within the app also provides live updates on whether your commute will be on schedule or impacted by delays caused by accidents or unusually high traffic volumes. These features are helpful, but they aren't a guarantee against delays inherent to busy times of day.

Even with the app's attempt to provide useful information, unpredictable factors can cause unexpected delays. Therefore, travelers should factor in the potential for schedule variations when planning their journeys during busy travel times, especially if they are traveling with tight connections. Being prepared for slight deviations from the estimated travel times can help manage expectations and prevent frustration during the commute. It's a good idea to factor in buffer time to allow for delays and potential disruption that might not be fully captured within the app's estimates.

Public transit time estimates, often a helpful feature in Google Maps, can become unreliable during periods of high demand, like rush hour. This is due to a combination of factors that challenge the predictive capabilities of the algorithms used by the app.

For example, the algorithms often rely on a simple assumption that delays increase linearly with passenger loads and traffic congestion. However, in reality, the relationship between these elements is more complex and non-linear. This can result in the system underestimating travel times during particularly congested periods, potentially leading to unexpected delays.

Special events can also have a profound impact on transit time estimations. Concerts or major sporting events can significantly alter traffic flow and increase passenger numbers, leading to substantial delays that often surpass standard estimations. Google Maps currently lacks the ability to reliably predict or adjust for these unique situations, and the results can be unpredictable and problematic for travelers relying on accurate estimates.

The human element also contributes to delays in transit systems. A single late-running commuter or a bottleneck at a boarding platform can create cascading effects throughout the network. This creates delays that are challenging to anticipate, further reducing the accuracy of estimates provided.


Furthermore, Google Maps' route optimization features, while generally helpful, might not always be optimal in rush-hour scenarios. While attempting to identify the theoretically quickest route, it might choose paths that are unexpectedly impacted by high traffic levels, resulting in longer travel times for the traveler. This highlights that what appears to be the quickest route during normal conditions might not be the best choice during high-traffic periods.

Another issue lies in the reliability of GPS signal reception in dense urban environments. High-rise buildings and dense urban structures can interfere with the GPS signal, resulting in the device’s estimated position being slightly inaccurate. These minor deviations can quickly accumulate and lead to errors in the estimated travel times provided by Google Maps.

Weather conditions can also impact public transport travel times. Rain or snow can lead to longer delays due to reduced speeds and increased stopping frequency for transit vehicles, especially during rush hour when transit infrastructure is under the most pressure. It's clear that weather is a variable Google Maps struggles to perfectly account for when predicting travel times.

Another interesting point is that Google Maps may not always correctly differentiate between different transit modes. The app's estimations might be less precise when applied to buses, which are often more susceptible to delays due to traffic, compared to trains operating on dedicated tracks. Consequently, these differences in travel time characteristics are not always appropriately factored into the estimations.

Public transit vehicles also have a finite capacity, leading to longer wait times during peak hours. When the number of passengers exceeds the vehicle capacity, boarding and alighting become lengthier processes, potentially causing further delays that the system struggles to fully anticipate and incorporate into its estimates.

Lastly, there can be a time lag between updates to the app's travel time data and the actual real-time traffic conditions. Real-time updates during rush hour can change rapidly, and the system's ability to consistently provide accurate predictions can be overwhelmed in such dynamic environments. This lag introduces an element of uncertainty, resulting in discrepancies between predicted and actual travel times.

Despite these limitations, Google Maps remains a helpful tool for many travelers. Being aware of these limitations can help users form realistic expectations and potentially mitigate travel disruptions by allowing for more flexible schedules or considering alternative routes when transit schedules are prone to delays.

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Outdated Business Hours Lead To Wasted Airport Trips

Incorrect business hours displayed on Google Maps can lead to unnecessary airport trips. While Google is trying to keep the information updated, often using artificial intelligence and even automated phone calls to businesses, mistakes still occur. Imagine arriving at an airport restaurant or shop, ready for a meal or a souvenir purchase, only to discover it's closed despite the map indicating otherwise. This type of error can waste valuable time and potentially disrupt travel plans, particularly for those with tight connections. It's crucial to double-check the information before heading to the airport. Verifying the opening hours through multiple sources, or even directly contacting the business, can help travelers avoid unwelcome surprises and make their journey smoother. Taking the time to do this can make a big difference and prevent those frustrating and avoidable airport experiences.

Outdated business hours listed on Google Maps can lead to wasted airport trips, a frustrating experience for travelers and a potential problem for airport operations. Imagine arriving at an airport restaurant or shop only to find it closed, despite Google Maps stating it was open. This sort of misinformation can cost travelers valuable time, and in some cases, even lead to missed flights.

One reason for this issue is the sheer volume of businesses Google Maps handles. They employ AI and automated systems to update business hours, but this isn't always accurate, particularly for smaller or less-frequented businesses. In some cases, Google's AI system, dubbed Duplex, will even attempt to call businesses to confirm their hours. This can be helpful but, like any automated system, isn't perfect.

While Google strives to maintain accurate information using location data, historical information, and even Street View images, there's a constant struggle to keep up with changes. Businesses adjust their hours for various reasons, and those changes may not be reflected immediately on Google Maps, creating a disconnect between reality and the digital map. This also means that the information in Google Maps might not always be the most current.

The consequences of outdated hours can extend beyond a single frustrated traveler. For example, airports have complex operational schedules designed to maximize efficiency. If a significant number of travelers base their decisions on inaccurate business hours, it can lead to disruptions in passenger flow and inefficient use of resources. It can also create a domino effect on flight connections, potentially causing delays for a chain reaction of travelers.

This problem highlights the growing reliance on technology for travel planning. Many travelers utilize their mobile devices to make on-the-go decisions, including confirming business hours. This makes them particularly susceptible to the problem of inaccurate information, which can lead to unnecessary travel, wasted time, and frustration. Furthermore, companies that rely on attracting travelers face lost opportunities when their actual hours don't match what's listed in the platform.

While Google is actively working on improving the accuracy of business hours in Maps, it's a constant challenge. It's a reminder that even the most advanced technologies have their limitations, and travelers should be cautious about solely relying on online information when making travel decisions. Cross-checking details or even contacting the business directly remains a useful safeguard against such inconveniences, as well as being a good practice for better travel planning.

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Incorrect EV Charging Station Status Causes Range Anxiety

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers often face range anxiety, the fear of running out of battery before reaching a charging station. This worry is a significant hurdle for wider EV adoption, particularly on longer trips. One major contributor to this anxiety is inaccurate information about EV charging station availability and status. When Google Maps or other navigation apps show a charging station as operational, only to find it out of order or unavailable, it can create considerable stress and uncertainty for drivers. This can lead to situations where drivers have to make unplanned detours or face the possibility of becoming stranded without a charge.

While Google Maps is trying to improve its service in this area, including providing information on payment methods and real-time updates on charger availability, the accuracy isn't always consistent. Many EV drivers have found themselves relying on independent apps or communities for more reliable and up-to-date information about charging stations. The inconsistencies create a frustrating experience that can deter potential EV buyers. As more people explore EVs, ensuring accurate charging station information is vital to establishing confidence and trust. Otherwise, drivers may continue to rely on traditional fuel-powered vehicles out of fear of being stranded. The increasing adoption of EVs should drive improved accuracy in EV-related data and better integration of real-time station information across various mapping and navigation platforms to resolve this issue.

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers often face a challenge: inaccurate information about the availability of charging stations. This can lead to what's called "range anxiety"—the worry of running out of battery power before finding a working charging point.

A major cause of this problem is often the reliability of the data itself. EV charging stations frequently rely on cellular networks to provide real-time updates on their status. However, in more sparsely populated areas or places with poor network coverage, these updates might not be consistently reliable, leaving Google Maps with outdated or incomplete information.

Another challenge stems from the way some charging networks operate. They often depend on user-reported updates for availability and functionality. This crowdsourcing approach, while helpful in theory, can lead to a degree of inaccuracy, particularly when users neglect to update the status after using a charging station. Consequently, a charging station might be shown as available when, in reality, it's currently in use or out of order.

The rapidly evolving landscape of EV infrastructure further complicates matters. As more charging stations are installed in urban and suburban areas, the mapping services may not always keep pace with the growth. This can lead to frustration for drivers who expect to find chargers where new developments have recently occurred but the map hasn't yet caught up.

Some charging networks employ dynamic pricing based on demand, which can change throughout the day. If Google Maps provides users with outdated pricing or availability information, they might arrive at a charging station only to encounter a lengthy wait or unexpectedly high fees.

Furthermore, Google Maps may not always provide accurate information regarding the distance and the amount of charge needed to reach a particular destination. The required charge amount can fluctuate wildly between EV models, and factors like driving style and external weather conditions can affect battery life. When the app recommends a station that is portrayed as close by but turns out to be inaccurate, it contributes to drivers' anxiety about the battery's capacity.

The surge in EV popularity worldwide has also caused some infrastructure challenges. Newer charging stations in areas with increasing EV adoption might not always reflect their true availability, as they could be consistently full. This can easily give the false impression of ample charging infrastructure when, in reality, getting a charging spot can be challenging, leading to anxiety over finding a working charging station.

In addition to these factors, the APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that Google Maps relies on from charging network providers for real-time data can create issues. If these APIs experience downtime or have slow update frequencies, the station status shown in Google Maps may not reflect current conditions.

Interestingly, some charging networks use captchas to ensure users are at the actual location of a charging station when updating the status. While this helps maintain data accuracy, it can delay status updates and contribute to a cycle of outdated information on station availability.

Another aspect is documentation of charging stations in remote areas. Occasionally, new chargers are installed without thorough documentation or integration into Google Maps, leading to confusion and potential anxiety for drivers exploring unfamiliar regions.

Finally, delays in software updates for both Google Maps and the navigation systems within vehicles can further complicate this issue. If a driver's navigation system hasn't received the latest updates from the data sources it relies on, the available charging station information might be incorrect, leading to unnecessary worries about battery range.


While the development of EV technology continues at a fast pace, ensuring accurate charging station data remains a challenge. By understanding the various factors that can lead to inaccurate information, drivers can better manage their range anxiety and make informed decisions during their journeys.

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Inaccurate Walking Routes Through Construction Zones

Google Maps, while generally helpful for navigation, can sometimes provide inaccurate walking routes, particularly in areas undergoing construction. This can lead to frustrating situations where pedestrians are directed through blocked or under-construction streets, potentially causing detours or even safety concerns. While users can submit reports of construction-related road closures, map updates can be slow, leaving the information outdated and potentially misleading.

This issue is particularly noticeable in urban environments with frequent construction projects. The lack of granular details in walking directions provided by Google Maps and similar services can further compound the problem, leaving users to navigate confusing or dangerous situations. Creating custom routes to avoid known construction zones can often be a better solution.

However, the absence of effective feedback mechanisms to flag issues with "forbidden paths" within Google Maps remains a challenge. It underscores the need for improved accuracy and responsiveness in these platforms, especially in locations with frequent and disruptive construction activities. As urban environments evolve, enhancing walking directions through crowdsourced information and more frequent map updates would be beneficial to improve pedestrian navigation.

Construction zones frequently introduce a layer of complexity to navigation, especially when relying on tools like Google Maps. While the intent is to guide users efficiently, the dynamic nature of these zones can lead to a mismatch between the digital representation and the actual environment.

One common issue is the inherent lag in map updates. Changes to road layouts, lane closures, and temporary detours often aren't immediately reflected in Google Maps, leaving users with outdated directions. This can be attributed to the reliance on crowdsourced data and the time it takes for local authorities or individual users to report changes. The algorithms managing these updates are not always adept at anticipating changes, leading to occasional inaccuracies, especially in areas with frequent construction activity.

Additionally, GPS signals can be significantly impacted in construction zones due to the presence of heavy machinery or altered infrastructure. This can result in less precise location readings, potentially leading Google Maps to suggest routes that are no longer viable or even hazardous. Furthermore, Google Maps' route optimization, while normally useful, can falter when confronted with temporary detours, sometimes recommending overly lengthy alternative routes that aren't the most efficient.

Beyond navigational challenges, there's also a safety aspect to consider. Inaccurate walking routes can inadvertently direct pedestrians into active construction zones, exposing them to potential hazards. The app's algorithms struggle to adequately consider the nuances of local traffic flows or community-specific paths frequently used during construction periods. Moreover, the functionality for those with mobility limitations might not be factored in sufficiently, leading to potential difficulties navigating through modified environments.

Another issue stems from the challenges of incorporating construction-related traffic impacts into travel time estimations. Construction often causes major traffic disruptions, which Google Maps might not quickly incorporate into its predictions, leading to travel delays and inaccurate estimates. The app's reliance on historical data can sometimes overshadow the sudden changes caused by roadwork.


While Google continuously improves the accuracy of its map data, the dynamic and ever-changing nature of construction zones will likely present ongoing challenges. The necessity for more responsive updates and better consideration for local conditions will probably remain a key area for improvement in future developments of mapping services. A more reliable solution might involve incorporating local insights, fostering quicker information updates, and potentially utilizing more advanced algorithms that consider a wider array of factors related to construction projects.

7 Hidden Google Maps Issues That Can Derail Your Travel Plans (And How to Fix Them) - Wrong Business Locations In Remote Areas Waste Fuel

Google Maps, while generally reliable, can sometimes display incorrect business locations, especially in remote or less-populated areas. This can lead to wasted fuel as travelers might be directed to incorrect addresses, causing them to drive extra miles in search of services or destinations. The problem isn't always obvious, as businesses can be verified on the platform and appear correct in a general search. However, zooming in or using the map view might reveal outdated or wrong locations. While Google offers users the ability to report such errors, the issue persists, highlighting the challenge of maintaining accurate data across vast and diverse geographical areas. This is particularly problematic for travelers venturing into remote regions or exploring areas with limited information where accurate location details are crucial to avoid detours and unnecessary fuel consumption. It's a good practice to cross-reference information from multiple sources and consider local resources when seeking services or directions in such regions. The dependability of online maps in remote areas can be uncertain, so it's wise to be mindful of these mapping glitches to avoid disruptions to your trip and potential waste of fuel.

In sparsely populated regions, the accuracy of business locations on Google Maps can be a significant source of frustration and wasted resources, particularly for those relying on fuel-powered vehicles. When the map displays a business as being conveniently located, but it's actually closed or situated far off the intended route, it translates into unnecessary fuel consumption, leading to higher travel costs and environmental impact.

The longer the detour or the further the drive to an inaccurate location, the more fuel is used, with longer drives at higher speeds, like those common when traveling across vast distances, typically exhibiting reduced fuel efficiency. Added stop-and-go driving, which can easily occur when trying to find a business in a less familiar area, can further worsen fuel economy. This is a concern not just for travelers but also for businesses in remote locations who may be losing a substantial portion of potential customers due to incorrect map listings. Misdirected customers not only lose time but also end up discouraging those seeking services in remote locations, resulting in lost income for those businesses.

This challenge is often exacerbated in areas undergoing construction where roads and pathways frequently change, making it challenging for mapping data to stay current. Navigation tools might fail to account for these alterations in real time, leading to extended travel times and, consequently, a further rise in fuel usage. It's important to recognize that this fuel waste isn't just a matter of monetary cost. The increased fuel consumption also contributes to environmental problems, including air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.


Beyond the immediate impact on fuel consumption and related financial burdens, inaccurate mapping information can sometimes lead to more troubling incidents. Drivers relying on incorrect directions can face a higher risk of minor accidents caused by unexpected stops or route adjustments. This is particularly true in remote regions where conditions can be unpredictable and drivers are likely to be less familiar with the area.

The issue of fuel efficiency extends to locating fuel sources. Outdated information on gas stations can cause drivers to find themselves stranded with an unexpectedly low fuel level and no convenient fuel stop in sight. This is a frustrating experience that highlights the importance of up-to-date information in these areas.

Moreover, in remote settings, GPS accuracy can be compromised by various factors, including geographical obstacles such as mountain ranges or dense vegetation. This degradation in signal can lead to more frequent navigation errors, resulting in unnecessary driving. The environmental interference can lead to incorrect turns or routes, impacting fuel usage and trip duration.


With the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), inaccuracies in charging station information can significantly impact travelers' range anxiety. When a charging station isn't functional as indicated on the map, it can be a major stressor for drivers worried about getting stranded with a depleted battery. This adds another layer of uncertainty for EV drivers in remote areas, hindering their travel confidence and potentially hindering broader EV adoption in those areas.


While mapping services are constantly evolving and improving, this issue persists in remote regions. Travelers should exercise caution, double-check information, and understand that relying on mapping technology alone in these less-traveled areas might not always be sufficient to guarantee efficient and stress-free travel.