How to Build Your Own Map & Directions

Custom maps are a convenient way to stay organized when traveling locally and outside the city limits. You can personalize the details of the map to remove unwanted data that can cause confusion on commercial maps. Choose a free online service to build maps for a variety of projects. Create an account with the service provider so that the map details are saved for repeated use. As you mark destinations on the map, you can mark directions between places to help you navigate shortcuts or favorite routes.

• 1

  Visit a free online map resource like Zeemaps.com or Maps.google.com.

• 2

  Create an account by clicking "Sign In" or "Register" on the main page. Enter your desired email address and password along with your contact details, then click "OK." Type in a name for your map and the starting location for your map. This is usually a city and state.

• 3

  Add personalized features to the map by adding detailed and simple markers. Detailed markers allow you to add a location name, latitude and longitude. Some map sites also allow you to add a photo at your marker. This is beneficial when sharing a map from a previous trip. The new user can see the markers on your map making it much easier to navigate.

• 4

  Calculate directions between map markers by clicking "Directions" or highlighting both markers. You can look for "Fastest," "Street Only" or a "Direct Route" between each marker. Color codes can also be used to highlight the various regions on your map. Save your map and select "Print" or "Share" to distribute.