A Guide to Sharing Maps with the Avenza Maps App

May 31, 2024

Sharing maps with the Avenza Maps App is easier than ever. Whether you've purchased a map from the Map Store or created a custom one, Avenza Maps allows seamless exporting and sharing across devices. You can share Map Store listings through a simple, shareable link, directing users straight to the Map Store. For custom maps, you can use your device's native sharing platform—Quick Share on Android or AirDrop on iOS—though keep in mind that these methods may have limitations imposed by the respective platforms and operating systems. Additionally, custom maps can be exported as PDF or TIFF files or as a GeoPackage (only applicable to Pro subscription users) with at least one layer. Remember, the maps will be exported in the same format they were imported into Avenza Maps. Dive into the details below to learn more.

Sharing Map Store Links


Maps bought from the Map Store can be shared through a link that takes users directly to the map's listing. From there, users can purchase and download the map to their own account or device using Avenza Maps. Follow the steps outlined below to share Map Store links using an Android or iOS device.

  1. From the My Maps List, tap the three dots next to the right of a purchased map.
  2. Select 'Share'
  3. Follow the remaining prompts to select your preferred sharing format (such as SMS, iMessage, email, or social media messaging apps)
  4. The recipient will receive a link redirecting to the map listing in Map Store.

Note that sharing Map Store links is different from accessing purchased maps on multiple devices. Maps bought from the Map Store can be downloaded on up to 5 devices directly through the Avenza Maps account (head/bust icon). To download a map on a new device, access the map for download from your account Download History.

Sharing Custom Maps via Quick Share/AirDrop

Custom maps can be shared on both Android and iOS devices using their native file-sharing platforms (Quick Share for Android and AirDrop for iOS). Since this functionality relies on the device's native sharing software, limitations and restrictions may be beyond Avenza's control.

Here are a few factors to keep in mind that will help when sharing maps with another device using Quick Share or AirDrop:

  • Sharing can only be done with custom maps and data

  • Please note: in most cases, custom maps and data can both be shared at the same time. However, there may be cases where the device limits this ability. Workarounds for this are detailed below

  • The share methods are unique to the platform, specific device, and operating system being used. Not all devices support file-sharing via AirDrop or Quick Sharing

  • There is no cross-platform sharing at this time. Therefore, iOS users can only share with iOS users, and Android users can only share with Android users

  • iOS users must be using the same version of Avenza Maps, the same operating system, and the same device language settings in order for AirDrop to work

  • For Android users, the device doing the sharing must be using at least Avenza Maps version 4.2, but the receiving device can be an older version of the app, or operating system provided the device supports Quick Share

  • Quick Share is only on Android devices using Android 6.0 or higher

How to Share Custom Maps via Quick Share Using an Android Device:

  1. From the My Maps List, tap on the three dots next to the right of a custom map
  2. Select 'Share'
  3. Select Quick Share and follow the remaining prompts to select the receiving device
  4. The receiving device receives the file and automatically imports it into Avenza Maps

How to Share Custom Maps via Airdrop Using an Apple Device:

  1. From the My Maps List, tap on the three dots next to the right of a custom map
  2. Select 'Share'
  3. Select AirDrop and follow the remaining prompts to select the receiving device
  4. The receiving device receives the file and automatically imports it into Avenza Maps

Exporting Custom Maps as a PDF, TIFF, or GPKG File

Free and Plus users can export custom maps as georeferenced PDF or TIFF files directly in Avenza Maps. Pro users have the additional feature of exporting maps and layers together as a GeoPackage (GPKG) file. For detailed instructions on exporting your data as a GPKG, please visit here. Similar to sharing a custom map via Quick Share or AirDrop, this is done through the "Share" option on the My Maps page.

It is important to note that the exported PDF or TIFF file will contain georeferencing only if the original file imported into Avenza Maps was properly georeferenced. If a custom map is not properly referenced, you will see a "Map not referenced" message on the map's listing in the My Maps page. Follow the steps below on your device to export custom maps. Images illustrating the steps for both Android and iOS devices are provided below for clarity.

Steps to save/share custom maps outside of the Avenza Maps App:

  • From the My Maps List, tap the three dots next to the right of a custom map
  • Select 'Share'
  • Follow the pop-up with the remaining prompts to select your preferred sharing format (such as SMS, iMessage, email or messaging apps). Alternatively, the file can be saved to your preferred storage location (device storage, Google Drive, Dropbox)
  • The file is automatically saved/sent for use outside Avenza Maps.

The Avenza Maps App makes sharing maps so simple and easy. Now that you know how to share maps, Map Store links, and custom maps, you can fully explore the app and enjoy all its features, enhancing your outdoor experiences and ensuring they are safe and enjoyable. If you enjoyed learning about sharing maps you will also enjoy exploring OSM basemaps with Avenza Maps.

Download the Avenza Maps App and Share Maps with Ease

Are you an outdoor enthusiast looking for ways to make your experiences efficient, exciting and secure? The Avenza Maps App is your answer! Download Avenza Maps, the #1 app for hiking, biking and all trails and enjoy an organized and hassle-free adventure.