How to show gas stations on your Google Maps route

You can display gas stations along your route by starting directions in Google Maps, then using the Gas or Gas stations filter in the search-along-route menu; on desktop, use the Search along route box and choose Gas stations, then select a station to add it as a stop. This guide explains the steps on Android, iPhone, desktop, and in-car displays, plus tips for filtering and saving time.

Show gas stations on Android and iPhone

The quickest way on mobile is to begin navigating to your destination and then search along your route for gas. Google Maps highlights stations with minimal detours and shows approximate extra time.

1. Open Google Maps and set your destination (Search > Directions).
2. Choose your route and tap Start (you can also do this from the route preview).
3. Tap the Search/magnifying-glass icon or the category chips under the search bar.
4. Tap Gas or type “gas stations.” Maps will show pins along your route with small detour times.
5. Select a station to see details, then tap Add stop or Go. While actively navigating, it’s added to your route automatically as the next stop.

These steps work similarly on both Android and iPhone. If you don’t see the Gas chip, use the search icon and type “gas stations.”

Adjust or remove the stop on mobile

You can manage stops to fit timing and preferences during or before navigation.

1. Swipe up on the bottom panel and tap Edit trip or Add stop.
2. Drag to reorder stops or tap the three dots next to a stop to remove it.
3. Resume navigation; Maps recalculates ETA automatically.

Reordering lets you optimize the sequence of stops without re-entering your destination.

Show gas stations on desktop (maps.google.com)

On a computer, you can search for gas along an active route and add your preferred station as a stop with one click.

1. Go to maps.google.com and click Directions, then enter your start and destination.
2. In the left panel’s Search along route box, type “gas” or click the Gas stations category if it appears.
3. Click a station on the map or in the list to open its info card.
4. Choose Add stop or Add to route. The station is inserted into your itinerary.
5. Drag stops in the left panel to reorder, if needed.

Desktop is handy for planning multi-stop trips in advance and fine-tuning the order of stops.

Use voice and in-car displays

Hands-free voice search helps you keep attention on the road, especially in Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

• Android and Android Auto: Say “Hey Google, find gas stations on the way” or “Find gas along my route.”
• iPhone and CarPlay: Use the microphone in Google Maps and say “Find gas stations along my route,” or tap the Gas category when available.
• Select a result to add it as a stop; Maps will show any extra time required.

Voice queries work best when navigation is already active to ensure results are along your current route.

Filters, prices, and smart choices

Google Maps can help you choose a station efficiently by showing useful details in supported regions.

• Detour time: Look for how many minutes off-route each station adds.
• Open now and hours: Use filters or check the station’s info card.
• Fuel prices: In many areas, Maps shows current gas prices on the place card; confirm before you go as prices can change.
• Amenities: Check for restrooms, convenience stores, or car wash in the amenities section.
• Save favorites: Tap Save on a station you like so it’s quick to add next time.

Comparing detour time with price and amenities helps balance cost with overall trip time.

Troubleshooting if you don’t see gas stations

If the Gas option or results aren’t appearing, these checks usually resolve the issue.

• Ensure you’re in route preview or active navigation; search-along-route options appear only with a route.
• Update Google Maps to the latest version from the Play Store or App Store.
• Zoom out slightly; extremely close zoom can hide category chips.
• Check network connection; offline maps support routing but may limit live search results.
• Regional availability: Gas prices and certain filters aren’t available in all countries.

After these steps, close and reopen Maps or re-create the route to refresh the interface.

Planning tips for longer road trips

For long drives, adding planned fuel stops can prevent detours and delays.

1. On desktop, map your full route and add a gas stop roughly every 200–300 miles, or per your vehicle’s range.
2. Save stations you trust along the corridor for quick access on mobile.
3. Consider traffic patterns; busy urban stations may add wait time during rush hours.
4. Enable alerts and read recent reviews for station reliability and restroom cleanliness.

Pre-planning one or two backup stations near each planned stop adds flexibility if a station is crowded or temporarily closed.

Safety and privacy notes

Using search-along-route should support safe driving and respect your preferences.

• Use voice controls whenever possible; pull over if you need to interact with the screen.
• Location History and Web & App Activity can personalize results; adjust these in your Google Account if desired.
• If you use Incognito mode in Google Maps, some personalized features may be limited.

Balancing convenience with safe, hands-free operation ensures a smoother experience on the road.

Summary

To show gas stations on a Google Maps route, start directions, then use the Gas or Gas stations search-along-route option: on mobile, tap the search icon or Gas chip; on desktop, use the Search along route field. Pick a station to add it as a stop, review detour time and details, and reorder stops as needed. Voice commands in Android Auto and CarPlay make this hands-free while driving.

How do I show service stations on Google Maps?

Another work-around is after you have created the route to go into the route screen again and choose options (the gear). Then you have an option to show POIs along the route, select that one and select the petrol stations. It is not a new route, but if you zoom out and follow your route you see the nearby stations.

How to make Google Maps show gas stations?

To find gas stations on Google Maps, search for “gas” or “gas station” in the search bar, or use the dedicated gas tank icon on the map interface. You can also view gas stations along your current route by tapping Directions, loading your route, then tapping the magnifying glass to reveal the categories, and selecting the gas icon. 
To find gas stations nearby:

1. Open Google Maps: on your phone or computer. 
2. Use the search bar: at the top of the screen and type in “gas” or “gas station”. 
3. Alternatively, look for the gas tank icon on the map interface and tap it to see nearby locations. 
4. Press “Search Nearby”: to see gas stations in your current map area. 

To find gas stations along your route:

1. Enter your starting point and destination: in Google Maps and get directions. 
2. Once your route is loaded, tap or click the magnifying glass icon. 
3. Select the Gas icon from the list of categories to see gas stations available along your route. 

Additional tips:

• Compare prices: Many countries allow you to compare gas prices directly within the map interface. 
• Filter your search: After a search, you may have options to filter by distance, ratings, or other criteria to narrow down your results. 

How to plan gas station stops on a road trip?

To plan gas stops, first, know your vehicle’s range and use a route planning tool like Google Maps, Furkot, or AAA TripTik to find gas stations along your route, ideally with at least a quarter tank of fuel remaining. Look for gas stations at exits with multiple options, consider using apps like iExit or Gas Guru for real-time information, and check reviews for cleanliness. Combine stops for other needs like restrooms and snacks, and consider filling up when you see cheaper gas or before a long, rural stretch of road.
 
1. Calculate Your Car’s Range

• Know your vehicle’s average miles per gallon (MPG) and tank size. Multiply these numbers to determine your car’s approximate range on a full tank. 
• Plan to refuel when your tank is at about a quarter full: or at the halfway mark to ensure you don’t run out. 

2. Use Route Planning Tools 

• Google Maps: Opens in new tabWhile traveling, use the search bar to search for “gas stations” to see nearby options along your current route. 
• Dedicated Road Trip Planners: Opens in new tabUse services like Furkot Help Center or AAA TripTik to input your vehicle details and have the tools automatically suggest refueling stops. 

3. Identify Potential Stops

• Look for Highway Exits with Multiple Options: Opens in new tabAreas with several gas stations at an exit often offer more choices and competitive pricing. 
• Check for Cheaper Gas: Opens in new tabSome apps, like Gas Guru, can show gas prices along your route, and places like Costco, Sam’s Club, or Native American reservations often have lower prices. 
• Use the iExit App: Opens in new tabThis app shows you what’s coming up at upcoming highway exits, including gas stations. 

4. General Road Trip and Gas Stop Best Practices

• Fill Up Before Rural Stretches: If you know you’ll be entering a long, desolate, or rural area, it’s wise to fill your tank in the last town before the stretch. 
• Combine Stops: When you stop for gas, take the opportunity to use the restroom, buy snacks, and take a break from driving. 
• Prioritize Cleanliness: When choosing a gas station, look for ones that appear new, well-maintained, or have good reviews in apps like Google Maps. 

How to find gas stations on your route?

While you’re navigating, tap the Magnifying Glass icon on the right side of the Google Maps interface. This brings up the Search along route screen. You can type a specific place into the box at the top if you’re looking for a particular gas station. Otherwise, tap the Gas stations icon.