Traveller Update: Online Map Usage Changes

27 February 2026

Hi ExplorOz Reader,

As travellers' connectivity options continue to evolve — including increased use of satellite internet — we're making a measured update in the next Traveller release relating to online map usage.

If you primarily use offline EOTopo maps, nothing changes for you. This adjustment applies only to online maps (Satellite, Streets and EOTopo).

Traveller was built around one core purpose: delivering EOTopo mapping for reliable offline use across Australia. Satellite and Streets maps are included as alternative online references to complement offline mapping.

Online map viewing has increased. Satellite and Streets maps are delivered through third-party infrastructure and billed according to usage.

While this usage was historically absorbed within our infrastructure thresholds, continued growth now means those limits are consistently being exceeded.

To ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining map quality, structured monthly online allocations will be introduced in the upcoming update.

How Online Usage Will Work

Traveller will display your monthly online map usage clearly inside the app. You'll be able to see your current usage, how close you are to your monthly allocation, and receive notice as you approach the limit — allowing you to adjust your usage if needed.

You may see the term “tiles” — this simply refers to small pieces of map data that load as you move around the map. You don't need to understand the technical detail.

Usage will include simple colour indicators:

• Green - within allocation
• Amber - approaching allocation
• Red - allocation reached

Monthly Online Allocations

App Users

• 5,000 online EOTopo tiles per month
• 1,000 Satellite & Streets tiles per month

Members

• Unlimited online EOTopo
• 5,000 Satellite & Streets tiles per month

If you prefer Satellite or Streets maps and require more, optional tile packs are available:

• 25,000 tiles
• 100,000 tiles

Tile packs are perpetual and do not expire monthly.

Membership remains optional. If your usage requires ongoing unlimited online EOTopo, that remains available through Membership. For most users, the included monthly allocation will be more than sufficient.

What Our Data Shows

We've analysed usage across peak travel seasons, long weekends, school holidays and full-time travellers.

Around 87% of users already operate within these levels. For most travellers, nothing will need to change.

A Practical Perspective

This update simply:

• Makes online usage visible
• Encourages offline EOTopo as your primary travel map
• Provides flexibility for Satellite and Streets users
• Helps keep online usage fair and predictable

In many cases, remaining within allocation is as simple as selecting offline EOTopo while travelling — even when you have connectivity.

What You Need To Do

Nothing for now. The update will roll out in March — this notice is simply to keep you informed.

Once available, we'll release a short tutorial video covering:

• What counts toward usage
• How to view your usage live
• How zoom levels affect map loading
• How to switch between offline and online EOTopo
• How to use Satellite and Streets efficiently

For most users, everyday use will remain comfortably within the standard allocation. We'll monitor how this performs and refine it if needed.

Thank you for your continued support.
Michelle & David
ExplorOz