Why Custom-Designed Maps Are the Key to Real-World Exploration in a Digital-First World
- Folding Maps
- Map design
Why Custom-Designed Maps Are Making a Big Comeback (and Why Your Guests Will Love Them)
Let’s be real, screens are everywhere. And while tech is incredible for some things, most travelers feel the burn. 71% of people say they’re tired of all the digital noise, especially when they’re supposed to be relaxing on vacation, at an event, or just out exploring for the weekend.
That’s where custom-designed paper maps come in.
At a time when everyone’s trying to unplug and reconnect with the real world, a beautifully designed, tactile map feels like a breath of fresh air. Whether you’re helping tourists explore a new city, guiding hotel guests to nearby hotspots, or giving visitors an easy way to navigate a park or museum, printed maps are back—and they’re better than ever.
Here’s why a custom map isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential.
Why Printed Maps Matter Again
It’s simple: people want a break from screens.
Vacations and events should be about new experiences, not constant notifications and app updates. And a paper map gives guests exactly what they’re looking for:
Distraction-free exploring: No pop-ups, no distractions—just pure discovery.
Stronger memories: Guests connect more deeply with places with a tangible guide.
A tangible keepsake: A well-designed map often goes home as a souvenir, not just a tool.
Visitor centers, hotels, and parks around the world are seeing it firsthand: guests are happier and more engaged when they get a great map in their hands.
Great Design Makes All the Difference
Let’s be honest—you can tell when a map is thrown together versus thoughtfully crafted.
Good design isn’t just about making something pretty. It’s about making it work beautifully for your guests and your brand.
Here’s what sets apart a map people actually use (and love):
1. Branding that feels seamless
Your fonts, colors, and layout should align with your brand vibe.
(Example: We built a gorgeous map for L'Ermitage Beverly Hills that matched their upscale feel perfectly.)
2. Easy, intuitive navigation
Labels and icons should guide the eye naturally—no squinting or guesswork.
(Our Savannah visitor guide uses color-coded categories so guests can find what they need in a snap.)
3. Strategy baked into the design
Maps are also marketing tools. Well-placed ads, QR codes, and featured spots can drive revenue without being pushy.
(Like the LGBTQ+ Resource Guide we created for Atlanta, designed to be both useful and community-driven.)
Who Wins with Custom Maps? (Hint: Almost Everyone)
Thinking about whether a custom map makes sense for your business? Here’s who’s seeing the biggest impact:
🏙️ Cities & Destination Marketers
Drive visitors beyond tourist traps into vibrant neighborhoods, local restaurants, and cultural events.
🧭 Visitor Centers & Chambers
Cut through brochure overload with clear, beautiful maps visitors actually want to use.
🏨 Hotels & Resorts
Share insider picks on dining, shopping, and attractions. Bonus: Fewer front desk questions and happier guests.
🌲 Parks, Trails, and Cultural Attractions
Give guests a durable, weather-resistant map that doubles as a souvenir.
We Make the Process Easy with Our Design Portal
If you’ve ever tried to manage a design project by email... You know the chaos.
Our PocketMaps Design Portal makes life way easier:
Upload and review everything in one place
Share feedback directly on drafts (no endless email chains)
Invite your whole team for real-time collaboration
Most projects only take 2–3 quick revision rounds before going to print.
From Idea to Delivery in Just 6 Steps
Our process is simple and built for busy teams:
Kickoff Call or Brief — Share your goals and ideas.
Gather Assets — Send us your logos, brand colors, locations, etc.
First Draft — We create an initial design for your review.
Feedback — You tweak, we adjust.
Final Approval & Printing — Once you’re thrilled, we print.
Delivery — Beautiful, finished maps land at your door ready to go.
Real Results from Real Clients
Need proof that maps still move the needle?
Community Projects: Our town maps helped small businesses get noticed and earn new sponsorships.
Savannah Guidebook: Guests loved the simple, color-coded design that made exploring easy.
Hotels: Boutique hotels saw fewer guest complaints about getting around, and more upsells to on-site experiences like spa packages and dinners.
Bring Your Destination to Life—No Wi-Fi Needed
Custom maps are more than just guides—they’re powerful tools for creating real-world adventures that guests remember (and rave about).
Apps have their place, but a printed map? That’s a whole different kind of magic.
Ready to give your guests something they’ll love—and use?