No signal? No problem! These are the 5 best offline mapping apps

In 2015, we have our share of high-tech conveniences: robot butlers and self-driving cars, to name a couple. Yet, the technology most important to our travel needs might just be the ever-improving mapping apps out there, many of which now allow us to navigate in offline mode. Here are five of our favorites maps for offline use:

Google Maps (App Store & Google Play) While not the first company to offer offline maps, the world's most ubiquitous mapping app became a serious contender and (let's be honest) is probably your go-to offline maps app after a major update earlier this month. In its newly available offline mode, users can get turn-by-turn driving directions and even get contact information and operating hours for local businesses. Google Maps may no longer come pre-installed on Apple devices, but an enormously robust flock of other apps might prompt iOS users to hurry up and download the app in order to access its full suite of abilities.

Galileo Offline Maps  (App Store & Google Play) This app takes a bit of advance preparation to really make the most of its capabilities, but if you know where you're headed, Galileo's ability to download specific maps for offline use could come in handy. Rather than hog your phone's precious memory with information about Austria when you're in Aruba, Galileo gives users only what they need, when they need it. Maps are updated monthly, ensuring that users are looking at a relatively up to date picture of the road ahead.

Maps.Me (App Store & Google Play) Hey big spender! This mapping app earns rave reviews for its simple user interface, but we like it for its inclusion of information about where to find an ATM (Why aren't other mapping apps including this data?). After you grab some cash, Maps.Me will give you specific walking instructions on the best route to take to arrive at your destination, getting some exercise in the process. And not only does this app have an offline mode, it can even route or re-route you without a Wi-Fi or cell connection.

CoPilot GPS (App Store & Google Play) Notable for its social media syncing abilities, this offline mapping app is the go-to option for the humblebragging millennial that wants all of their Facebook friends to know exactly which exotic locale they are currently having the time of their life in (File Under: #sorrynotsorry #roadtrip #wishyouwerehere). But be prepared to pay between $9.99 and $29.99 to have access to additional maps — including maps of the U.S., Canada and Europe — and its unlimited voice-guided navigation.

OffMaps 2  (App Store only) While not the most robust app in terms of global coverage, the 4,000 destinations covered by OffMaps will at least look pretty darn good, as the app supports retina display devices. OffMaps also integrates with Wikipedia, offering curious users an easy in-app ability to read up on the sights they have encountered. Perhaps most helpful to urban travelers is the app's local public transportation integration with many cities, meaning you can plan the next leg of your trip even when you're deep underground on the subway.