TechGoogle Maps' new 'Travel Time' feature simplifies trip planning

Google Maps' new 'Travel Time' feature simplifies trip planning

Travel Time feature in Google Maps
Travel Time feature in Google Maps
Images source: © Google Maps

1:09 PM EDT, June 19, 2024

A new feature called "Travel Time" has appeared in Google Maps, allowing users to estimate the area they can reach on foot or by car within a given time frame.

Google Maps is an extremely popular service that we often use during trips to reach our destinations quickly and efficiently. Besides standard route planning, the application enables us to monitor real-time traffic, helping to avoid traffic jams and delays, and locate nearby service points such as gas stations or restaurants.

However, not everyone is familiar with all the features Google Maps offers. Useful options like setting alternative routes, which can bypass road obstacles, or the ability to view streets in Street View mode, allow users to better prepare for their trips. Additionally, using the offline mode is an ideal solution for situations where there is no internet access, ensuring uninterrupted application operation even in difficult conditions. Discovering these features can significantly improve and facilitate any journey.

New feature in Google Maps – Travel Time

The "Travel Time" option is a useful feature for planning spontaneous trips, allowing users to determine where they can reach within a given time frame. Not all users realize that such functionality exists, and it can greatly facilitate travel organization.

The "Travel Time" function allows you to determine the area that can be reached within a given time.
The "Travel Time" function allows you to determine the area that can be reached within a given time.© Google Maps

To access this feature, simply select the "Layers" menu, then "More," and in the "Map tools" section, choose "Travel Time." By clicking on a town or object, the function allows you to determine the area you can reach on foot or by car within the given time.

At the bottom of the map, a menu will appear that allows you to choose between walking and driving. For walking, travel times of 15 or 30 minutes are available, whereas for driving, you can choose times ranging from 15 minutes to 6 hours. The available area will be marked with a blue zone.

It is worth noting that the "Travel Time" feature only works when viewing Google Maps in a browser on a computer (it does not work on the mobile app).