Google Maps is a powerful navigation tool that helps millions of users find their way around daily. While toll roads can sometimes provide a quicker route, they can also be an inconvenience and an added expense. Luckily, Google Maps allows you to avoid toll roads by adjusting your settings. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to say no to tolls on Google Maps, providing both formal and informal ways to do so. So let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Setting Avoid Tolls: The Formal Approach
If you prefer a formal way of requesting Google Maps to avoid tolls, you can simply follow the steps below:
Step 1: Open Google Maps
Launch the Google Maps app on your smartphone or open the Google Maps website on your computer’s browser.
Step 2: Enter Your Destination
Tap the search bar at the top of the screen or click on it if you’re using the website. Type in the address or name of your destination.
Step 3: Plan Your Route
After entering your destination, tap “Directions” or click the blue “Get Directions” button on the website. Enter your starting point if prompted.
Step 4: Access Route Options
Once the route is displayed, look for the three dots in a vertical line at the top right corner of the screen or window. Tap or click on them to access additional options.
Step 5: Choose “Route Options”
Scroll down the options menu and tap or click on “Route Options.” This will open a new page or expand the options section.
Step 6: Toggle “Avoid Tolls”
In the route options, you will find a “Avoid Tolls” toggle button. Switch it on by tapping or clicking on it to ensure Google Maps finds an alternate route without tolls.
Step 7: Confirm and Start Navigation
Once you have enabled “Avoid Tolls” option, make sure the route displayed adopts this preference. If satisfied, confirm the route and start your navigation by tapping “Start” or “Go” button.
2. Skipping Tolls: The Informal Way
If you prefer a more casual approach to requesting toll-free routes, you can simply say it to Google Assistant or Siri using voice commands. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Activate Voice Assistant
Activate the voice assistant by saying “Hey Google” or “Hey Siri,” followed by the command, “Avoid tolls on Google Maps.”
Step 2: Offer Destination and Starting Point
Provide the voice assistant with your destination address or name, and if prompted, your starting point as well.
Step 3: Confirm Avoidance of Tolls
Your voice assistant will respond, confirming that it will find a toll-free route for you. Confirm that you want to avoid tolls and proceed with the navigation.
3. Tips and Examples for Saying No to Tolls
Useful Phrases
When using the formal or informal approach to requesting route alternatives without tolls, try using these phrases as examples:
- “Please find a route without tolls.”
- “I don’t want to take any toll roads.”
- “Can you avoid tolls when calculating the route?”
- “Could you please show me a non-toll route?”
Regional Variations
Keep in mind that the specific voice commands and options may vary slightly depending on your region and language. However, Google Assistant and Siri are designed to understand similar requests globally, so just try to phrase your command naturally.
Confirming a Toll-Free Route
Always double-check the suggested route before starting your journey. You can visually inspect the map and ensure that no toll roads are included. If you notice any discrepancies, repeat the steps or try using different phrasing to communicate your preference more accurately.
Pro Tip: Saving Avoid Tolls as Default
If you often prefer to avoid toll roads, you can save the “Avoid Tolls” setting as your default preference in Google Maps. This way, it will automatically calculate non-toll routes for you, saving you time and effort in the future.
In Conclusion
Avoiding toll roads on Google Maps is a simple task that can help you plan your journeys more effectively. Whether you opt for the formal way through the app or website settings or prefer the convenience of voice commands with Google Assistant or Siri, the choice is yours. Just remember to use clear phrases and confirm the suggested route before you start navigating. Happy toll-free travels!
