Frequently Asked Questions
All the answers to your questions about MapPlanner
1 What is MapPlanner?
MapPlanner is an application for creating, planning and managing routes for outdoor activities. It allows you to easily draw a route (walking, cycling, hiking, trail running, etc.), get elevation data, view different maps and export your track in GPX, KML or FIT format. It also helps you plan future outings by calculating reachable distances.
2 Why create an account?
You can create an account in just a few seconds:
- Click on Sign up in the menu
- Enter your email and password
- Validate your account by following the link sent to your email
Your account allows you to save routes, photos, preferences and share your routes in a single click.
3 How do I change my password?
Simply click on Log in in the menu, then click the Forgot password? link.
Enter your email. You will then receive an email containing a link to change your password.
4 How do I draw a route?
To draw a route, simply:
- Open the map
- Place points on the map to draw your route
- Let MapPlanner automatically calculate distance, elevation and the most suitable path for your activity
You can modify, move or delete points at any time.
5 Can I plan a route on roads, trails or bike paths?
Yes. MapPlanner offers different routing modes depending on the activity: road, MTB, hiking, running, etc. The route automatically adapts to the most appropriate path.
6 Can I view the elevation and difficulty of the route?
Yes. The elevation profile is generated automatically with:
- positive and negative elevation gain
- maximum and minimum altitude
- an estimated difficulty based on distance and terrain
7 How do I save a route?
Once your route is complete, simply click Save route. You can then:
- find it in your saved routes
- edit it
- duplicate it
- share or export it
8 How do I share a route?
Once your route is drawn, click Share my route. You can then share it:
- by email
- other social networks
9 How do I import or export a route (GPX, KML, FIT)?
Import: use the Import GPX menu and drag and drop the file (GPX, KML, FIT) onto the map.
Export: open the route (yours or another user's), then click the Export GPX icon to download your track in GPX format.
10 How can I reuse another user's route?
You can reuse and adapt another user's route by clicking Copy this route.
The track will be displayed on the map, and you can freely modify and adapt it to your needs.
11 How do I follow my real-time position on the map?
From an existing route, click the Follow this route in real time button. You will see your position on the map and can follow the route live — ideal for hiking, cycling or running.
12 Can I use MapPlanner on a smartphone or tablet?
Yes. MapPlanner works on computers, smartphones and tablets through your browser (Chrome, Safari, Edge…). No installation required.
13 What is the difference between the free and paid versions?
The free version allows you to draw, view and export routes but with limitations. The paid “Explorer” version adds:
- advanced maps (satellite, topographic, IGN*, etc.)
- more complete tools for drawing and planning routes (reachable distance, ...)
- additional features depending on your subscription
- no usage limits
*depending on availability and licensing
14 What does the “Explorer” subscription include?
The Explorer subscription gives you access to all premium features: unlimited reachable zones, real-time GPS tracking, premium maps, unlimited 3D views, advanced GPX export and much more.
The subscription is billed annually and renews automatically. An email is sent 30 days beforehand to notify you.
15 What payment methods are available?
The site offers two payment methods: by credit card via Stripe, or with PayPal. No banking data is stored by MapPlanner; everything is secured by certified partners.
16 How can I cancel my “Explorer” subscription?
You can cancel your subscription anytime from your profile.
Go to your account and click Cancel my current subscription. It will not renew, but you keep access until the end of the current billing period.
17 Can I get a refund for my “Explorer” subscription?
You can request a refund within 30 days after the initial purchase by contacting our support team.
If you're unsure whether you're eligible or if you have questions about your purchase, feel free to contact us!
18 In which regions can I use MapPlanner?
MapPlanner covers nearly the entire world with several global map sources. Some premium maps may be limited to specific regions (e.g. IGN in France).
19 Which maps are available?
Depending on your subscription, you have access to several types of maps:
- road map
- topographic map
- satellite map
- regional premium maps (IGN, etc.)
20 Does MapPlanner work offline?
An internet connection is required to load maps. Some areas may remain visible if cached by your browser, but this is not guaranteed. Real-time GPS position uses only your smartphone's GPS and works even without network.
21 How is my personal data protected?
Your data is secure and used only internally for the operation of the service. You can view the privacy policy on the dedicated page and request deletion of your data at any time.
None of your data is shared with external services.
22 What should I do if I encounter a bug or error?
You can contact support via:
- the contact form
- the support email displayed on the site
- the help page
Please provide a screenshot if possible — it helps us resolve the issue faster.
23 Can I delete my account?
Yes. From your user space, you can:
- delete your account
- remove your routes
- remove your photos
Deletion is permanent.
24 Can I use MapPlanner for competitions or events?
Yes. You can prepare routes, export GPX files for participants, or share a public link. Check any local or regulatory restrictions related to your event.