British drivers have a simple way to cut the cost of their journeys, with potential savings of more than £10 per trip hiding in a common smartphone app. The secret lies in a specific setting within Google Maps that allows motorists to steer clear of toll roads and bridges.
The High Cost of UK Toll Routes
Across the United Kingdom, there are approximately 20 toll roads and bridges where drivers must pay a fee to pass. The charges can vary significantly, but one of the most expensive is the M6 toll motorway. For a standard car travelling the full length across all three zones, the current cost is a hefty £10.50.
Costs are typically higher for vans, while motorcyclists often benefit from reduced rates. With many drivers relying on digital sat-navs for long trips or unfamiliar routes, this technology offers more than just directions—it can be a powerful tool for budgeting.
How to Disable Tolls on Google Maps
Ensuring you avoid these fees is straightforward. Within the Google Maps application, users can select a preference to "avoid toll roads". This can be done for a single journey or set as a default for all future navigation.
For a Single Journey
Follow these steps to plan a toll-free route for your next trip:
- Open Google Maps and enter your destination.
- Tap "Directions".
- Before starting navigation, click the three vertical dots (⋮) in the top-right corner.
- Select "Route options".
- Switch on the toggle for "Avoid tolls".
- Tap "Done". The app will then recalculate your journey to exclude any chargeable roads.
Set It as Your Default
To make toll avoidance your standard setting and save on every journey:
- Open the Google Maps app.
- Tap your profile picture or initial in the top-right.
- Choose "Settings".
- Select "Navigation settings".
- Go to the "Route options" section.
- Activate the "Avoid tolls" option.
- Use the back arrow to save your preference automatically.
Within the same "Route options" menu, drivers can also choose to bypass motorways and ferries, allowing for complete control over the type of route taken.
Taking Control of Travel Costs
This simple adjustment puts financial control back in the hands of the driver. While avoiding tolls may sometimes result in a slightly longer journey time, the potential saving of £10.50 or more per trip makes it a worthwhile consideration for many. In an era of high motoring costs, from fuel to insurance, using your navigation app's full capabilities is an easy win for your wallet.
So, before you set off on your next drive, take a moment to check your settings. A few taps on your phone could keep your money in your pocket, not on the road.
