One of the most common misconceptions about smartphones is that they need cellular data (4G/5G/LTE) to know where they are. In reality, the GPS chip inside your phone works completely independently of your cell plan.
The Golden Rule
GPS hardware works everywhere. Map data requires preparation. Your blue dot will move, but without downloaded maps, it will be moving on a blank grid.
1. Download Maps BEFORE You Leave
This is the most critical step. Once you lose signal, you cannot download the map tiles needed to see the terrain, trails, or roads.
- Google Maps: Great for driving, poor for hiking. Search for an area, swipe up, and tap "Download Offline Map."
- Organic Maps / Maps.me: Download entire states or countries. Excellent for general travel.
- AllTrails / Gaia GPS: requires a paid subscription usually, but allows for detailed topographic downloads.
2. Airplane Mode is Your Friend
When you are in an area with weak or no signal, your phone wastes a massive amount of battery power "screaming" for a tower that isn't there.
Switch to Airplane Mode immediately. Your GPS chip will still work (it just listens to satellites), but your battery will last days instead of hours.
3. Disable "High Accuracy" Location (Android)
Some Android phones have a setting that uses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth scanning to improve location accuracy. In the wilderness, this just drains battery. Stick to "Device Only" or "GPS Only" mode if available in your settings.
4. Bring a Backup Power Source
Cold weather and constant GPS tracking can kill a phone battery unexpectedly. Always carry:
- A 10,000mAh or larger power bank.
- The correct charging cable (check for fraying!).
- If it's freezing, keep your phone close to your body heat.
5. Don't Rely Solely on Tech
We love offline maps, but phones can break, get lost, or die. For serious backcountry travel, always carry a paper map and a physical compass—and know how to use them.
Ready to gear up?
Check out our reviews of the best offline map apps.