The debate on whether you should keep a paper map with you or depend entirely on google maps always spark different reactions. There are those people who feel like google maps are very convenient, while others think that the paper maps are still very valuable. But the question is, do you have to put all your faith in technology that is dependent on so many factors? Do you think paper maps still have value in our lives? By the time you complete going through this piece, one thing is going to be very clear- You still need paper maps. Below are the reasons why you must keep paper maps.
They always contain more details
The probability that a google map is going to give you small and beneficial information in the middle of nowhere is null. On the other hand, paper maps have a way of giving you all the information you need in detail. If there is an oasis around, you are likely to find it on a paper map instead of on a google map. Why? Google Maps only has information about significant features and most familiar landmarks in the area. There is a huge probability that you can’t find a local oasis on a google map.
Paper maps give options
Unlike GPS or google maps that provide you with strict directions to follow, paper maps do things a lot more differently. Your paper map gives you options by indicating alternate routes. They also have several features that make it easy to come up with different ways to get somewhere. That is so far one of the main reasons why you need paper maps. Keeping one is going to allow you to formulate routes, take a shortcut that a google map lacks or make a turn that you would assume otherwise. Maps are easy to read. They give you the big picture.
You don’t have to worry about them powering off
Imagine finding yourself lost with only a few percentages of battery left. If you don’t interpret your google map quickly, the chances are that you are not going to find your way back on time. But then, there is no rush with paper maps. They don’t use any batteries, neither do they require charging. That means that even if your phone powers off and you have a paper map, you can take your sweet time to interpret the map and find your way back.
Paper maps are good memory boosters
Using google maps is as easy as playing an easy game. All you have to do is type in your location and destination, then let technology take care of the rest. The problem with relying on such is that you are going to struggle with the directions next time you find yourself in that position. You have to interpret the area carefully for you to know where you are and where to go. By doing so, you log the directions in your memory, thus boosting it.
It is rare to lose directions
There are several errors that often come about with google maps. There are times that you come across places that no longer exist. These include roads, paths, malls, and local shops. But then, such incidences are rare. You are likely to find something that you even have no idea it exists. It makes paper maps superior and a must-have piece of information. Chances of getting lost with a paper map are very minimal.
Paper maps are reliable
With paper maps like a scratch-off map, you don’t have to worry about running out of data or having annoying messages. With paper maps, the sky is the limit. Moreover, one can mark all the essential locations visited, write small quotes or notes near them, which makes them highly convenient as compared to Software maps. You can be far beyond the mountains and still get information on demand. It makes it very comfortable, efficient, and reliable. You all you have to do is to ensure you keep it safe and watch it stay with you to your destination. They are designed to offer you directions that are easy to travel.
There are even specialized maps for using public transport and or when self-driving. So no matter whether you travel with a tacoma roof rack or with a bulky motorcycle, you are assured of having a bump-free ride when using the right maps created for your kind of travel.
Paper maps don’t distract
How many times do you receive notifications when you are busy trying to look at your google maps? It is because Google maps are distractive. You find yourself looking at Ads, going to the notification panel only to see what’s trending and receiving calls or chatting whenever a text pops up. That is not the case with paper maps, and the best thing is that you don’t have to worry about advertisements. That is why you should keep a paper map. There is no way you can throw away such powerful information.
Having a paper map doesn’t mean you are sticking to old habits. It only shows that you know what you are doing. Paper maps are going to be around for years to come because they are very vital, whether traveling or hiking. They have both valuable information and with many relevant details that google maps lack. It is the only way to stay ahead.
Featured Image by bluebudgie from Pixabay
