Use Google Maps and WhatsApp to spot traffic checks and share your location, from anywhere in Spain

These handy tools can help you avoid road delays, spot police checks and even let family know where you are in real time

Whether you are heading off on a road trip around Spain, or just want someone to know where you are, Google Maps and WhatsApp offer simple ways to make travelling a little easier and safer. From showing police checkpoints and speed cameras to sharing your location in real time, these features are built into the apps most of us already use daily.

See traffic cameras and police alerts on Google Maps

• Open the Google Maps app on your phone
• Tap the icon in the top right corner that looks like two stacked squares (this is the 'Layers' button)
• Select “Traffic” from the options that appear

Share your live location on WhatsApp or Google Maps

To share on WhatsApp:

• Open the chat with the person you want to share your location with
• Tap the paperclip icon next to the message bar
• Choose ‘Location’, then select ‘Share live location’
• Pick how long you want to share it for (15 minutes, 1 hour or 8 hours)
• You can also add a short message if you like

To share on Google Maps:

• Open the app and tap the blue dot that shows your current location
• Select ‘Share location’
• Choose how long to share it for, or set it to stay on until you switch it off manually
• You can even allow them to see your phone’s battery level or start navigation to your spot