TravelAnimator gives you multiple ways to map your journeys. Two of the most popular ways to import routes in TravelAnimator are through GPX files and Google Maps links.
Whether you’re creating a cinematic travel vlog, an educational video, or a tourism showcase, how you import your route can impact how your animation looks and feels. Both options let you plot your journey on the map, but they serve slightly different purposes.
This guide will compare GPX and Google Maps features in TravelAnimator, explain how they differ, and help you choose the best options for your needs.
What Is a GPX File in TravelAnimator?
A GPX file is a universal format for recording geographical data, such as routes, tracks, and waypoints. When you upload a GPX file in TravelAnimator, you’re importing a real journey, one that has been tracked second by second. Every turn, stop, and curve from your original trip is reflected in your animation. That’s why GPX files are a favourite among travelers and vloggers.
What Is a Google Maps Route in TravelAnimator?
A Google Maps route is a pre-planned or shared travel path from Google Maps that you can directly import into TravelAnimator. GPX records what you have already travelled, but Google Maps is about mapping what you plan to travel. With this method, you don’t need to record or convert anything. You simply copy a shareable route link from Google Maps and paste it inside TravelAnimator to auto-plot your route.
How to Import a GPX File in TravelAnimator (Step-by-Step)
- Open TravelAnimator and clear the old routes to get an empty map with no routes marked.
- Tap on the routes menu and go to Add GPX.
- Import the GPX file from your device or drive.
- The route will appear on the map.
- Customize the imported GPX routes by zooming them to their maximum level.
- You can see points/stops there.
- Long-press point and add models, images, and labels.
- Preview and export the video. Adjust the elements before exporting.
How to Import Google Map Link in TravelAnimator (Step-by-Step)
- Open TravelAnimator and click on the route menu.
- Go to the Paste Google Maps Links and paste the route link that you copied from Google Maps.
- Tap on Plot Route, and you can see the route in your map screen.
- Customize the route by zooming in to the maximum level. Then you can see the points.
- Long-press the point to change models and add images & labels.
- Preview the video and adjust the elements before exporting.
GPX vs Google Maps in TravelAnimator
| Feature | GPX files | Google Maps Route |
|---|---|---|
|
Data Source
|
Real recorded journey through GPS devices or other apps
|
Pre-planned or shared route from Google Maps
|
|
Accuracy
|
Very high accuracy includes all turns, stops, and curves.
|
Accurate routes with real routes.
|
|
Ease of Use
|
Requires file upload
|
Direct import link (fast & easy)
|
|
Users
|
Cyclists, bikers, and travelers recreating trips
|
Beginners, travel professionals & those planning a trip.
|
|
Editing Options
|
Can’t adjust the route. Can only add models, images & labels
|
Can’t adjust the route. Can only add models, images & labels
|
|
Best for
|
Real journeys, adventure videos, trip recaps
|
Planned routes, promo videos, and educational use
|
Which Should You Choose from GPX and Google Maps in TravelAnimator?
Choose GPX if you want to recreate your real-world journey with detailed and engaging content. It’s perfect for those who’ve recorded their actual trips and wish to recreate them exactly on the map. Whether you’re producing a travel recap video or a documentary-style animation, GPX gives you accurate route tracking, capturing every turn, curve, and stop along the way. Additionally, with TravelAnimator’s GPX Smoothening feature, you can reduce the curves and turns to make your animation smooth and visually appealing.
On the other hand, choose Google Maps if you’re focused on planning future trips or creating clear, accurate route visuals. It’s the right option for storytellers, students, and travel planners who need quick, clean, and professional-looking routes without the hassle of GPS recordings. If you don’t have a GPX file but still want an accurate path, this method saves time while delivering excellent results. Google Maps is ideal for those who prioritize speed, simplicity, and visually appealing animations over in-depth customization.
Tips for Best Route Results in TravelAnimator
- If your GPX route has too many turns, toggle on Smoothen Route to make it visually engaging.
- Always check your animation before exporting in HD or 4K to avoid misplaced models or labels.
- Set the duration to match the travel theme’s speed. A fast route may look unnatural. Increase the video duration for long trips and decrease it for quick overviews.
- Choose the right model for your animation, such as a car for highways, a plane for inter-country travel, or a boat for sea routes.
- Use photos or labels to highlight key stops, making your animation more interactive and informative.
- For professional presentations, smoother visuals, such as Google Maps imports, often work best.
- For vlogs or real-time experiences, GPX-based animations deliver authenticity.
Which Is Better for Creating TravelAnimations?
When it comes to creating travel animations, both GPX and Google Maps routes have their strengths. It all depends on what story you want to tell. If your goal is authenticity with a real-world journey, GPX files are the best choice. With features like GPX Smoothening in TravelAnimator, you can refine those raw GPS points into a clean, cinematic flow without losing the journey’s originality. However, if your focus is on accuracy with every curve and stop, especially when planning or demonstrating a future trip, Google Maps offers a faster and easier path.
So start exploring both options and choose the one that best suits your needs.
