Pros and Cons of Using a New York Sightseeing Map vs. Your Phone

New York City is the largest city in the United States. More than 8 million people live in the city, and more than 20 million make up the metropolitan population. It also covers more than 450,000 square miles and features countless attractions, historic sites, iconic locations, and ideal places for tourists. If you’re headed to the Big Apple, make sure you bring some assistance to find your way around the city as you tour. You can pick up a New York sightseeing map, or you can rely on your smartphone. Both options have benefits and drawbacks.

Why Use a Map

There’s nothing wrong with going old-school and using the traditional method of a New York sightseeing map. You can use sightseeing map specifically for finding points of interest. Maps will draw attention to these places. Also, if you lose your map, you’re only out a couple of bucks. On the other hand, if you lose your phone, you’ve got a lot more problems on your hands. Also, you can easily draw and mark interesting places on your map, which is helpful when you are planning your itinerary.

When You Should Leave the Map Behind

There may be reasons to avoid a New York sightseeing map. Depending on where you buy your map or when you get it, the map might not be up to date. There may be missing or incomplete information on the map. These omissions could lead you astray. You may have a harder time reading a paper map than you would a map on your phone.

Why Use Your Phone

You’re accustomed to using your phone for just about everything. Your smartphone is with you nearly all the time. It’s simple to use, and you can access information easily and quickly. Your phone will have updates on locations that a New York sightseeing map might not have.

When You Shouldn’t Use Your Phone

You can’t guarantee that there will always be wi-fi service for your phone. Plus, what happens if your battery dies when you don’t have your charger? Your phone won’t be much use in these cases like a New York sightseeing map would be. You also may not want to risk losing or damaging your phone by having it out constantly. A New York sightseeing map and your phone can both be good resources for finding your way around New York. Evaluate what option is best for you based on these pros and cons.