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How do I avoid tolls?

Published in Toll Avoidance 3 mins read

You can effectively avoid tolls by utilizing the settings in popular navigation apps and by planning your route carefully before you start driving.

Using Navigation Apps to Avoid Tolls

Modern navigation applications are equipped with features specifically designed to help drivers bypass toll roads. These tools are the most straightforward way to ensure your journey is toll-free.

Google Maps

Google Maps provides a simple way to set your preferences to avoid tolls. Here's how to adjust the settings on your device:

Step For Android Devices For iOS Devices
1. Tap The three dots located on the screen. The top left corner of the screen.
2. Select "Route options" from the menu. "Options" from the menu.
3. Toggle Turn on "Avoid tolls" and/or "Avoid highways." Turn on "Avoid tolls" and/or "Avoid highways."
4. Confirm Tap "Done" to apply changes. Return to the previous screen to see your alternate route.

Once these options are selected, Google Maps will recalculate your route, prioritizing roads that do not have tolls, even if it means a slightly longer travel time or distance.

Other Navigation Applications

Most other widely used navigation apps, such as Waze and Apple Maps, offer similar functionalities. Typically, you can find options to avoid tolls, highways, or even ferries within their route settings or preferences menu. It's always a good practice to check the settings of your preferred app before embarking on a journey.

General Strategies for Avoiding Tolls

Beyond relying solely on navigation apps, incorporating a few general strategies into your travel planning can help you consistently avoid tolls.

  • Pre-Trip Route Planning: Before you leave, take a moment to look at your entire route on a map, not just on an app. Identify potential toll roads and look for parallel non-toll alternatives. This allows you to get a holistic view of your journey.
  • Look for Road Signs: Pay attention to road signs, which often indicate the presence of a toll road well in advance. Signs mentioning "Toll Road," "E-ZPass," or "Express Lane" (which often have tolls) are clear indicators.
  • Consider Local Roads: Often, local roads run parallel to toll highways. While these might be slower due to lower speed limits, more intersections, or local traffic, they are typically free.
  • Be Flexible with Travel Time: Avoiding tolls often means taking a longer or less direct route. Be prepared for potentially extended travel times to save on toll fees.
  • Consult with Locals: If you're unsure about the best non-toll routes in an unfamiliar area, asking local residents can provide valuable insights into shortcuts or preferred free roads.

By combining the power of navigation app settings with smart pre-trip planning, you can effectively navigate without encountering unexpected toll charges. For more general road trip planning tips, you might find resources on how to plan a road trip helpful.