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Do you drive Smart?

While many new vehicles sport infotainment technology, many older models do not. That’s where some helpful driving apps you can download for free on your Smartphone can be handy. These apps, available for both iOS and Android, are designed in such a way as to not distract you when you’re behind the wheel.

That said, it’s important to remember distracted driving is dangerous and against the law. So, if you’re using these apps, remember to keep your focus on the road.

1) Google Maps

You’re likely familiar with this one. But you may not be taking advantage of some of its features. Did you know you can:

• Download offline maps ahead of time so you can view them without an Internet connection while on the road.
• Save a route when you are connected to Wi-Fi and access driving directions offline.
• Add multiple destinations to your itinerary.
• Save your parking spot so you won’t forget where you left your car.
• Use voice commands for hands-free driving.

Google Maps Android
Google Maps for iOS

2) GasBuddy

This app will help save money by telling you where and when to purchase gas. You can also use it to find gas stations of specific brands, and ones with amenities, like car washes and restrooms. App users also write reviews of the locations they’ve visited, which may help in locating the better ones. It also warns of price increases. Other money-saving features include the gas price map, trip cost calculator, and fuel logbook.

GasBuddy for Android
GasBuddy for iOS

3) Waze Navigation & Live Traffic

This navigational app will help you get to your destination faster by warning you of traffic jams, accidents, and other hazards en route. After warning you about the traffic hold-up, it will reroute you. As well, the app will assist in finding nearby parking, which helps if you’re in an unfamiliar city.

Waze for Android

Waze for iOS

4) PlugShare

Attention EV drivers! This app provides you with the world’s most comprehensive charging station map. It will help you find the nearest charging station for your EV. Many drivers that use this app also leave reviews about the charging stations they’ve visited. You can also filter locations shown on the map to ones that are compatible with your vehicle. Some locations will allow you to pay for charging through the app.

PlugShare for Android
PlugShare for iOS

5) Ontario 511

This app provides real-time highway and traffic information to Ontario drivers to help them safely plan their route. This includes information on construction, truck and public rest areas, incidents and road closures, weather alerts, and the location of snowplows on highways across the province.

Ontario 511 for Android

Ontario 511 for iOS

6) Flush

Flush is a quick way to find a public bathroom or restroom, including ones for the disabled. Simply open the app and it will display the nearest toilets. It’s free, has no in-app purchases, and has more than 200,000 bathrooms in its database. You can even search for restrooms without an Internet connection. But if you are connected, it can give you directions to the loo.

Flush for Android

Flush for iOS

7) ParkingPanda

ParkingPanda allows you to easily find, reserve, and redeem parking in major cities in Canada and the U.S. Some of the cities include Washington D.C., New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Toronto, and Edmonton.

ParkingPanda on Android
ParkingPanda for iOS

The last apps on our list are more about making a road trip more enjoyable or finding an outdoor destination to get some exercise – something that’s still safe during the pandemic.

8) AllTrails

Park that car and explore the great outdoors! This app is packed with 100,000 hiking paths and mountain bike routes from across Canada. It will help you find kid and pet-friendly trails and allows you to find hikes based on rating, length, and difficulty. The app will give you driving directions to the trail and turns your phone into a GPS tracker, so you won’t get lost.

AllTrails on Android
AllTrails on iOS

9) Who Wants To Be A Millionaire

Sick of listening to your playlist while driving? Challenge your friends and family to the game Who Wants To Be A Millionaire. Test your trivia knowledge by answering questions in a bunch of categories. When you get stumped, help is available! This game is great for kids of all ages and has an offline mode you can use while driving.

Who Wants To Be A Millionaire on Android
Who Want To Be A Millionaire on iOS