8 ways to use Maps and more for your holiday plans

The holidays are here and it's time to bake the pies, buy the presents and handle a million other tasks. To help you rock this busy jingle bell season, here are a few ways that our latest features can help you make sure everything stays merry and bright.

1. Spend less time dashing between stores

Need a last-minute gift? Now, you can search in Google Maps for items like pickleball rackets, board games, ice cream makers and more to find nearby stores that have them in stock so you can pick up what you need, stat. No empty stockings here!

2. Be the shining star of holiday planning ✨

If you're feeling cooped up, get inspiration for things to do curated with Gemini : Just search in Google Maps for things like "fun winter activities in New York City." Once you've found a place you like, ask Maps for information to help you make a decision - like "does this place have free parking?" And if you're short on time but want to know what others think of a place, check out helpful reviews summarized with Gemini to find out what people like about it.

3. Know before you go this holiday season

On Google Maps, use Immersive View for routes to prepare for your drive by previewing tricky turns, checking out traffic simulations and understanding the parking situation before you head out. It's like having your very own holiday sidekick!

4. Handle winter driving like it's (s)no(w) problem ❄️

Weather conditions can make driving tricky this time of year. Now on Maps, you can see and report weather disruptions like unplowed, low-visibility or flooded roads so you can know what's to come and keep your fellow drivers up-to-date.

5. Plan EV charge stops before a frosty journey ⛄

If you drive an EV with Google built-in, you can now plan your trip on your phone with all your charging stops and send it straight to your car. Don't know your plug type? Just add your vehicle's make and model into Maps on your phone and we'll automatically show you compatible charging stations whenever you search for them.

6. Confidently haul all your holiday goodies

We know reindeer aren't the only ones hauling precious cargo this season. Drivers in North America towing holiday goodies - whether it's a festive tree or a family camper - can just enter trailer dimensions into their car with Google built-in and Maps will know to show routes that avoid low bridges and tunnels. These trailer-friendly routes are available on the 2024 Chevy Tahoe, Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon, with more compatible vehicles coming in the future.

7. Avoid surprise delays on your polar express (or local bus)

On Google Maps, you can start reporting delays and see if your transit line will be impacted by one thanks to information from fellow riders and local agencies - so you can make sure you're getting to your festivities on time. We'll also show you helpful details like clearly marked entrances to subway stations and alternate transit routes right on the map.

8. Fly like Rudolph with great travel deals

And if taking to the skies is more your vibe, make sure you check out the new "Cheapest" tab on Google Flights to find the best deals this season.

With all these tips and insights up your sleeve, you'll be sure to sleigh this holiday season. For more holiday hacks, be sure to check out the best times to hit the road and run your errands.

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