How do I add more than 10 stops to a Google map?

Breaking Free from the Ten-Stop Trap: Mastering Google Maps for Extensive Routes

Planning a road trip with a jam-packed itinerary? Organizing deliveries across multiple locations? Google Maps is often the go-to tool for route planning, but its limitation of just ten stops can quickly become frustrating. Luckily, overcoming this ten-stop obstacle is surprisingly simple, allowing you to map out even the most ambitious journeys.

The key is a clever workaround: chaining routes together. Think of it like a relay race – you’re breaking your long route into manageable segments and passing the baton from one segment to the next. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Plan Your Initial Route (The First Leg)

• Open Google Maps on your computer or mobile device.
• Enter your starting point.
• Add up to nine more destinations, using the “Add Destination” button. Optimize the order of your stops for efficiency.

Step 2: Save or Note the Final Stop

• Crucially, remember (or save the address of) the tenth and final stop on this first route. This will be your “transfer point.”

Step 3: Create Your Second Route (The Next Leg)

• Begin a new route in Google Maps.
• Instead of your original starting point, enter the address of the tenth stop from your previous route (your “transfer point”).
• Add up to nine more destinations, continuing your itinerary.
• Optimize the order of these stops.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

• Continue this process, using the last stop of each preceding route as the starting point for the next. Each new route can contain up to ten destinations (including the transfer point).

Why This Works

Google Maps essentially sees each route as a separate entity. By strategically using the final stop of one route as the starting point of the next, you effectively bypass the ten-stop limit.

Tips for Smooth Sailing:

• Name Your Routes: Give each route a descriptive name (e.g., “Leg 1: City Center,” “Leg 2: Suburbs”) to keep them organized. This is especially important when planning a complex multi-day trip.
• Use Google My Maps: For more advanced route planning and visualization, consider using Google My Maps (maps.google.com). This tool allows you to create custom maps with multiple layers, add detailed notes, and customize the appearance of your routes and markers. While Google My Maps doesn’t automatically calculate turn-by-turn directions, it’s excellent for planning and visualizing long, complex itineraries.
• Screenshot or Copy Addresses: Before finalizing each route, take a screenshot of the final directions or copy the addresses of the stops. This provides a backup in case of technical issues or if you need to reference specific instructions while on the go.
• Consider Timing: Keep in mind that Google Maps’ estimated travel times might not be accurate, especially for long trips with multiple stops. Build in buffer time for traffic, unexpected delays, and breaks.

Beyond the Limitation: Flexibility and Control

While the ten-stop limit might seem restrictive, this chaining method actually provides greater flexibility. You can easily adjust individual route segments based on traffic conditions, unexpected detours, or changes in your plans. By breaking down your itinerary into smaller, manageable chunks, you gain more control over your journey.

So, don’t let the ten-stop limit deter you. With a little planning and the smart use of chained routes, you can conquer even the most ambitious itineraries and make the most of Google Maps’ powerful navigation capabilities. Happy travels!