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Use this secret Google Maps trick to plan your next trip like a pro!

Travel tips

Do you dream of having your next holiday perfectly planned and personalised, even before you step off the plane? Well you’re in luck, because one savvy TikTok user shared an amazing tip that’s taking travel planning to the next level – and it’s all thanks to Google Maps!

In a quick 60-second video, TikToker @jessicawantanap reveals her secret travel planning weapon: creating a custom map for her destination – including all the attractions she wants to visit, along with the best restaurants and bars.

This personalised map helps her decide where to stay and makes navigating the city a breeze. The video racked up more than 900,000 likes, so we knew we had to share it with you before you set off on your next holiday! 

Of course, you can’t plan a holiday without a destination. You can check out London Southend Airport’s destinations here. But shameless self promotion aside, here’s what you need to do to make your own Google Maps travel plan.

Planning your trip with Google Maps

Step one: Create your map

Before booking your hotel or Airbnb, start by creating your custom map. Search “Google My Maps” and click “Create My Map.”

Step two: Add your must-see spots

Pin all the attractions, activities, restaurants, and bars you want to check out.

Jessica even finds new places to explore through TikTok recommendations, though naturally we’d suggest looking for your destination in London Southend Airport’s travel hub (call us biased, we dare you).

Don’t forget to pin key transportation hubs like train stations or airports for easy access.

Step three: Find the best place to stay

Do a quick Google search to find the recommended areas to stay in your destination and compare them with your map. This way, you’ll know exactly where to book your accommodation based on your interests and activities.

If you happen to be planning a Mediterranean getaway, you should also check out our guides to hotels in Faro, hotels in Malaga and even hotels in Mallorca – all for less than £100! 

Jessica swears by her method.

She said: “Ever since I started doing this, I can’t look back.” And she’s not the only one.

Fellow TikTokers are loving this travel hack, with @seekatdo commenting: “The way I’ve spent hours googling every address to see how close/far they were from the hotel or attractions… THANK YOU.”

Another user, @hao_lowcanyougo, called it “the best most practical travel advice I have come across on this app.”

Using Google Maps this way not only helps you plan your days out efficiently but also makes spontaneous exploring super easy. You can see which attractions are nearby and adjust your plans on the go!

Still unsure? Watch this video for real-life instructions!

At the airport

Inspired to book a holiday? 

It’s like having a local guide right in your pocket, whether you’re flying to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower, catching a flight to Marrakech to explore the markets and Medinas or travelling to Bourgas, Bulgaria to soak up the sun on the beaches of the Black Sea.

So, next time you’re planning a trip, give this clever Google Maps trick a try. You might find it transforms the way you travel, making your holidays smoother, more organised, and even more fun.

Happy travels!

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