Google Maps lets you avoid tolls and highways through route options on supported platforms, but ferry avoidance is not documented in every interface. Set the options before you start, then check the route and road signs: a preference is not a guarantee that every unwanted road or crossing will be excluded.
Set route preferences on a computer
-
Open Google Maps on your computer, enter your starting point and destination, and choose driving directions.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
-
Select Options.
-
Check Tolls, Highways, or both, depending on what you want to avoid. The computer instructions document these choices but do not list a ferry-avoidance option.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy. -
Review the available routes and select the one that best fits your priorities.
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Garmin Drive™ 53 GPS Navigator- Bright, high-resolution 5” glass capacitive touchscreen display lets you easily view your route
- Get more situational awareness with alerts for school zones, speed changes, sharp curves and more
- View food, fuel and rest areas along your active route, and see upcoming cities and milestones
- View Tripadvisor traveler ratings for top-rated restaurants, hotels and attractions to help you make the most of road trips
- Directory of U.S. national parks simplifies navigation to entrances, visitor centers and landmarks within the parks
Set route preferences on Android
-
Enter or select your destination in Google Maps and tap Directions.
-
Open More > Options from the directions screen.
-
Select the avoidance preferences shown in your app, then review the resulting routes. Google’s Android directions instructions describe route options, but the choices shown can depend on the interface and availability.
Rank #2
Sale
Garmin DriveSmart 66, 6-inch Car GPS Navigator with Bright, Crisp High-Resolution Maps and Garmin Voice Assist- 6” high-resolution navigator includes map updates of North America
- Hands-free calling when paired with your compatible smartphone with BLUETOOTH technology and convenient Garmin voice assist lets you ask for directions to places you want to go
- Road trip–ready features include the HISTORY database of notable sites, a U.S. national parks directory, Tripadvisor traveler ratings and millions of Foursquare POIs
- Driver alerts for things such as school zones, sharp curves and speed changes help encourage safer driving and increase situational awareness
- Access live traffic, fuel prices, parking, weather and smart notifications when you pair this navigator with your compatible smartphone running the Garmin Drive app
Change route options in a car with Google built-in
In a car with Google built-in, search for your destination, then open Route overview > Route options and select the option you want. See Google’s instructions for cars with Google built-in. The documented workflow and available options may vary by vehicle and region.
Recommended Free Tools
What to know about ferry avoidance
Do not assume ferry avoidance is available in every version of Maps. The computer directions instructions name toll and highway options, but not ferries; route options differ across the documented computer, Android, and car interfaces. If you need to avoid a ferry, inspect the proposed route and its details before setting off rather than relying on a toggle you cannot see.
Rank #3
- 7” high-resolution navigator includes map updates of North America .Special Feature:Easy-To-Read Display; Voice Assist; Hands-Free Calling; Live Traffic and Weather; Traffic Cams and Parking; Smart Notifications,Driver Alerts; Tripadvisor; National Parks Directory; Find Places by Name; Garmin Real Directions Feature.
- Hands-free calling when paired with your compatible smartphone with BLUETOOTH technology and convenient Garmin voice assist lets you ask for directions to places you want to go
- Road trip–ready features include the HISTORY database of notable sites, a U.S. national parks directory, Tripadvisor traveler ratings and millions of Foursquare POIs
- Driver alerts for things such as school zones, sharp curves and speed changes help encourage safer driving and increase situational awareness
- Access live traffic, fuel prices, parking, weather and smart notifications when you pair this navigator with your compatible smartphone running the Garmin Drive app
Check the route before you drive
Compare the route alternatives in Maps for the features you want to avoid, as well as their estimated travel times and distances. Maps may display toll estimates in supported contexts, but these are estimates—not authoritative operator prices. Google also says it does not calculate congestion-based toll prices for roads or lanes where the charge varies with traffic. Check the toll operator’s published information when the price matters.
If an expected setting is missing, confirm that you are following the instructions for your platform and check the app or interface you are using. Google notes that some directions have limited availability. If a suggested route still appears to include a road or crossing you meant to avoid, inspect the route and follow signs and local traffic rules. Google’s safety guidance says: “When in doubt, follow actual traffic regulations and confirm signage from the road or path that you’re on.” See Google’s Android navigation guidance.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
