Hi All, we will be in Paris during May and would like to use our iPhone apps such as Bonjour RATP and G7 Taxi and Google Maps while we are out and about. We're unsure if these apps will work offline without using a bunch of expensive data. The question is: does anyone have experience with using their phone apps offline? Thanks so much!
Posted by
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA
15172 posts
I am not particularly adept at using offline maps. I just bite the bullet and get Verizon coverage for the time I am in France.
However...I have screenshot a route on google maps OR CityMapper app (which is my choice over google maps) when I was low on juice.
G7 will not work without a data connection either wifi from a museum/restaurant you might be in or a data plan.
Posted by
Massachusetts
1225 posts
If your iPhone is unlocked and has dual eSIM capability, get an eSIM. I have used Airalo eSIMs multiple times and the cost is very reasonable. For example, 15-day eSIM for France with 2GB of data is only $7.50.
Posted by
Kirkland
229 posts
Unless I misunderstand your question, your phone must be online somehow, either Wi-Fi or cell service, to access real-time data.
Posted by
Chicago
55 posts
It’s not the phone, but the service provider that is important to have access to data for the apps while out and about.
If you tell us who your service provider is, we can give you a better idea of the most efficient ways to access data while in Paris.
You’re iPhone will be able to access the apps while on WiFi.
Posted by
Rochester
24 posts
Ray:
Actually Google Maps has the ability to download maps so that it works even when it is not connected to cellular(mobile) data. The trick is you have to download all the needed maps before you travel via a data connection, either through Wi-Fi or your cellular service provider(T-Mobile, Verizon, etc). This is very, very useful in areas with spotty wireless coverage. I used this most recently in New Zealand with a NZ SIM where spotty coverage is common but it also works without cellular data at all, a feature I used to car travel all over Greece previously. Do a Google search for "Google maps download offline maps" for details. It is easy once you get used to it, and it works for both iPhones and Android. The one complexity is that you might have to download several maps because Google limits the max size for any one map.
-Bruce
Posted by
Rochester
24 posts
Ray:
I forgot to mention that certain features such as traffic data don't work with offline maps for what should be obvious reasons, i.e. there is no way to get that info without a cellular data connection. But regular routing, etc works just fine. There is also a small reduction in available memory since the maps have to be stored on the phone. If you want up to date traffic info of course you would need to get a cellular data SIM or e-SIM for France. Orange has some of the best cellular coverage in France.
-Bruce
Posted by
Lynnwood, Washington
9089 posts
eSIMs are a low cost game changer. I use them and really appreciate the value and convenience they provide.
Posted by
1122 posts
We have Verizon and it costs $100/mo or $10/day when on an international trip. Just the cost of traveling. We really found using the G7 taxi app very convenient on our trip.
Posted by
Middletown, RI
1304 posts
What Bruce said.
Posted by
Seattle suburbs
83 posts
Ray
We have used our IPhones in Europe every year since 2014 on RS Tours. First it would helpful to know more specifics of what you would like to accomplish. That said it appears you are mostly interested in directions. Here is my short version. We used T-Mobile and their free data and texting everywhere we have been in the Schengen area and Great Britain. Once we have checkin we use WiFi to download Google maps of anywhere we expect to be in the next day or so. Specifically city maps. They are then available offline for directing you. I load each Hotel address and phone # in my phone so you can use Google maps to get direction back either driving or walking via GPS.
There is is much more we use on our IPhones
Locating each other when separated
I love Tripit app for recording travel info like boarding passes, hotel information, it’s free
Google translate.
What’s app for calling home. Free
Getting charge card notices for new charges. A safeguard
Pm me if you want more information.
Posted by
1691 posts
I use CityMapper without using cellular data. You need to open it and put in where you are going when you have a wifi connection. Then leave it open as you are going from point A to point B. But once you close the app you'll lose your map.
Posted by
36 posts
Just buy an Orange Travel eSIM. Lots of data, reliable and reasonable value. Certainly way better than your US carrier $10 a day plan.
You can purchase it online before traveling and it activates after landing in Europe. Works all over Europe and UK too.
Posted by
36 posts
FYI Orange is the local equivalent to AT&T in France and Spain