When we consider taking a trip, whether for work, vacation or a weekend getaway, one of the factors that most influences our decision of route is the price of tollsFortunately, if you use Android Auto in your car, it's easier than ever to know how much you'll spend on these stretches of road before you even set off. Thanks to apps like Waze y Google Maps, you will get very realistic estimates and almost real-time information.
Want to know how to see toll prices directly from your screen while driving or before starting your journey? This article will explain step by step. how to activate this feature in each of the two most popular navigation tools for Android Auto. Plus, we'll give you helpful tips for saving money and choosing the most budget-friendly route.
Why know the toll prices before traveling by car?
Planning a route well is not only about knowing how to get there, but also about anticipate the expenses associated with the journeyAmong them, tolls stand out as one of the most important, especially in countries like Spain where some highways can be expensive.
Having an estimate in advance of how much each route will cost you allows you to make a real comparison between alternativesSometimes, paying a few euros in tolls can save you a lot of time; other times, the financial savings from avoiding tolls can offset the higher gas consumption from traveling further. The key is having all the information available, and that's where Waze and Google Maps excel.
View toll prices with Waze on Android Auto
Waze It is an application with a very active community of drivers that shares real-time information about traffic, accidents, radars, roadworks... and also the estimated price of tolls on a specific route. This feature can be used both in Android Auto and directly on your phone if you use it as a navigation system on your dashboard.
How to activate the toll option in Waze
For Waze to show prices, it is essential disable the option to avoid tolls in the app settings. You can do this by following these steps:
- Open Waze on your mobile.
- Click on the three horizontal lines in the upper left.
- Sign in «Settings», and then on "Navigation".
- Make sure the option "Avoid tolls" is disabled.
Once you have made this simple adjustment, Waze will be able to start showing you routes with toll roads and the estimated price you would have to pay if you choose them.
Use Waze on Android Auto to see toll prices
After successfully setting up the app, you just need to connect your phone to your car using a cable or wireless connection, depending on your model. Once in Android Auto:
- Open Waze from your car screen.
- Enter your destination.
- Choose «Go now».
You will see on screen the different routes with their respective times and distances, but also a key piece of information: the estimated toll price for each routeThis will allow you to make a quick and informed decision.
Is Waze's toll price data reliable?
The estimate provided by Waze does not come from official sources, but from contributions from the driving communityDespite this, their level of accuracy is quite high. According to several specialized media outlets and users, the difference with actual prices is minimal, often less than a few cents.
This makes Waze a really useful option, especially in situations where you're looking to compare multiple routes and assess the economic impact of including a toll.
What if I don't have Android Auto?
No problem. You can continue using Waze from your phone mounted on a cradle. The toll display functionality is fully operational even in traditional mode. Enter your destination and tap «See routes», you will have access to the estimated cost of each one, just like from Android Auto.
How to see toll prices on Google Maps
Google Maps has also incorporated a function to show the approximate price of tolls, although its deployment has been more progressive and geographically limited. This functionality is based on official data from governments, concessionaires and traffic agencies, which gives it extra reliability, although it is not yet available in all countries.
Activate toll prices in Google Maps
To have the app display estimated tolls for your route, follow these steps:
- Open Google Maps on your Android or iOS device.
- Click on your profile (image in the upper right corner).
- Accede to «Settings» and then to "Navigation Settings".
- Activate the option «See electronic toll prices».
Also, before starting route planning, you should check that you do not have the option checked «Avoid tolls» within the "Trip Options." Otherwise, the app simply won't show you toll-related alternatives.
Where is this feature available?
Google Maps currently offers toll estimates. mainly in the United States, India, Japan and IndonesiaIn countries like Spain, the functionality is not yet fully operational, although Google has mentioned that will continue to expand coverage progressively
It's likely that by the time you read this article, it's already available in new locations, so we encourage you to check if the option appears in your app.
What does Google Maps consider when giving toll prices?
In addition to using official data, the app also takes into account Factors such as the day of the week and the estimated time you will pass through the toll, which may modify the final price in cases where there are variable rates.
All of this means that, when active, the tool offers valuable and accurate information for making decisions about your route.
Comparing routes with and without tolls: planning is key
One of the great advantages of these applications is that they allow you compare the cost of different routes before starting the journeyThis way, you can assess whether it's worth paying a toll to get there faster or if you prefer a free alternative that saves you money.
This feature is especially useful when you're traveling long distances or on a tight budget. It's also important to keep in mind that sometimes Avoiding tolls can cost you more on gas. if the alternative route significantly lengthens the distance.
Tips to save money on tolls
If your priority is minimize road expenses, you can follow some cpractical advice:
- Travel during off-peak hours: Some tolls apply lower rates during off-peak hours.
- Activate the option to avoid tolls: Use it on Google Maps or Waze if you only want to see free routes.
- Use electronic toll collection devices: Many dealerships offer discounts for frequent users with devices like the TAG.
- Check out specific toll calculation apps: Tools like Your Routes or official highway websites can help you plan more thoroughly.
Waze or Google Maps? Which is better for calculating toll prices?
Both applications have their advantages. Waze he offers you real-time data thanks to its community of users and is usually available in more regions, although it does not use official sources. Google Maps, for its part, offers more reliable information as it is based on official data, but its functionality is currently limited to certain countries.
Ideally, you should try both options and see which one best suits your needs and compatibility with your car and Android Auto system.
Thanks to technology and the advancement of navigation applications, We no longer need to improvise on the road And we won't be surprised by toll prices. Whether you use Waze or prefer Google Maps, with a few simple settings you can know exactly how much each trip costs, compare options, and plan your trips smarter, more economically, and tailored to your preferences. Share this guide so more users know about the functionality.