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The Travel App You Didn’t Know You Needed: What3words Explained

  • Writer: My Travel Shoes
    My Travel Shoes
  • Apr 4
  • 2 min read

Updated: Apr 24



Find Any Spot on Earth with Just Three Words.


Have you ever struggled to describe your exact location while travelling, hiking, or exploring the outdoors? Whether you're meeting a friend in a busy city, trying to find a remote campsite, or dealing with an emergency, What3words is a simple tool that can make navigation easier.


What is What3words?


What3words is a free app that divides the world into a grid of 3m x 3m squares, assigning each square a unique three-word address. Instead of sharing complicated GPS coordinates, you can communicate your precise location using just three words.

For example, the Eiffel Tower’s What3words location is ///filled.count.soap—much easier to remember than latitude and longitude!

Some pizza delivery companies and other delivery services are using the app – you can provide your back door or front door what3words location.


Why Use What3words While Travelling?


  • Find exact locations – Perfect for hidden gems, trailheads, or hard-to-find accommodations.

  • Easy to share – No need for long directions—just send three words.

  • Works offline – The app stores locations even without an internet connection.

  • Emergency use – Rescue teams and emergency services in many countries use What3words to locate people faster.


How to Use What3words on Your Travels


1. Download the App


2. Find and Share Your Location

If you're in a remote area, a busy city, or on a hiking trail and need to share where you are:

  • Open What3words and check your location.

  • Copy the three-word address and send it via text, WhatsApp, or email.

  • Example: “I’m at ///ocean.wander.path – meet me here!”

3. Use It for Navigation

If someone shares a What3words location with you:

  • Open the app and enter the three-word address in the search bar.

  • Tap “Navigate” to open directions in Google Maps, Apple Maps, or another app.

4. Emergencies & Safety


What3words is used by emergency services in many countries, including Canada, UK, US, and Australia.

  • If you get lost while hiking or need urgent help, open the app and give 911 (or local emergency services) your three-word location.

  • This helps responders find you faster than traditional GPS coordinates.

5. Finding Hidden Travel Spots

Many off-the-beaten-path places—like secret beaches, scenic viewpoints, and unique Airbnbs—use What3words for exact locations.

  • Check their website or contact the host for a three-word address.

  • Enter it in What3words to find the exact spot!

Real-Life Travel Situations Where What3words Helps


  • Road trips – Share precise meeting points at gas stations or scenic stops.

  • Camping/Hiking – Pinpoint remote campsites or trailheads.

  • Beaches – Find friends on a crowded shoreline.

  • Cities – Locate hidden cafes, market stalls, or Airbnb entrances.

  • Emergencies – If lost or injured, emergency services can find you faster.


Start Using What3words on Your Next Adventure!


  • Download the app and explore with confidence.

  • Bookmark cool locations you find.

  • Share it with fellow travelers—they’ll thank you later!


Learn more at What3words.com


Learn how and why What3Words was created. Listen to the Ted Talk by Chris Sheldrick CEO & co-founder of the app.


Can you identify my location in this photo by searching these three words?






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