Without downloaded basemaps the only thing you have is your location (and track of previous locations) which is not too useful. Skip down to the i-phone or Android instructions for Waze or Google Maps With pre-loaded (downloaded) base maps and routing information the only thing you lose without cell signal is traffic updates. ¿no addresses? | how to google maps | how to waze | big picture | gps | garmin | lemmings Now you can use the GPS on your phone or tablet even when there’s no cell signal How Do Offline GPS Maps Work? Now, with a GPS enabled phone (almost any smart phone), there’s no need for an expensive Garmin add-on when renting a car in Costa Rica. Google improved “Maps Offline” and Waze started automatic caching. Best Places to See Wildlife in Costa Rica.