The advancement of technology has made paper maps obsolete and while we don't need a book that can unfold to be larger than you, we still need help navigating the ever changing earth. That's where GPS comes in. With our smartphones, we can type in almost any location we want to head to in Google Maps and it'll take us through step by step.

But are you really fully utilizing the powers of Google Maps? Pretty sure most of us are not. So, here are 5 lesser known features in Google Maps that could absolutely make your life easier!

1. Incognito Mode

Just like how some of us use incognito mode in our browsers to prevent tracking while we're doing "questionable" things, Google has also integrated that feature into Maps - because sometimes we just don't want to keep a record of where we've been and where we're going to.

Just tap your icon on the top right corner and choose turn on incognito mode. This is also great if you're lending your phone to a friend for a road trip navigation.

2. Reminders to Leave

If you're someone who is late a lot (come on, nobody likes that), then this function will save you. Say you're meeting up with some friends at a bar tomorrow, just go to Google Map and search for the location, tap "Directions", swipe up all the way and toggle the "remind you to leave on time" option.

You'll then get to choose at what time you wish to arrive and Google Maps will alert you when you should get going. It even takes traffic into account so don't you dare say you're late because of a traffic jam ever again!

3. Parking Location

Come on, admit it, we've all "lost" our cars at least once before, right? Right? Well, why not have Google Maps remember it for you next time. Whenever you're parked, open up Google Maps and tap the blue dot that represents you on the map. You can then select "set as parking location" which will not only remember where your car is, but WHEN you parked it.

No more taking pictures of surround landmarks or overstaying at paid parkings!

4. Google Maps Without Internet

If there's one thing that good 'ol paper maps do better than technology, it's reliability. One of our worst nightmares of relying on apps like Google Maps is having poor or no Internet connection.

Well, if that's a worry, why not download the entire map of the area you're gonna be at? That's right, pick a location, tap the 3 dots on the top right corner and select "download offline map". Then, download the entire town just to be sure!

5. Location Sharing

Shopping at a market in a foreign land but don't want to get accidentally separated? Use the "location sharing" function by tapping your picture. You can choose who to share with and how long to share it for. Once done, see all your buddies on the map and start heading your own ways without any worry! Do note that this requires an Internet connection.

So, have you heard of these functions? Have you tried them before? If not, give it a go the next time you're out and about. You might be surprised at how well Google Maps can help with your life!