If you’re looking to share your real-time location with someone via Instagram DM, you’re in the right place. Instagram now allows you to share your live location directly within the app. Here’s how to do it, along with an alternative method using Google Maps for those who prefer it.
Instagram DMs: How to Share Your Live Location
Sharing your live location over an Instagram chat can be helpful when meeting someone or making it easier for them to find you—without giving away your WhatsApp or iMessage number. It’s also useful for coordinating with people you only know through Instagram, like a mutual from an event or meetup.
This way, you don’t have to share your phone number or any personal details beyond your Instagram profile. Plus, since not everyone uses WhatsApp or iMessage, this method helps avoid cross-platform compatibility issues.
Method 1: Using Instagram’s Built-in Live Location Feature
Meta introduced the live location sharing feature to Instagram DMs in November last year. It works for both one-on-one and group chats. Your live location cannot be forwarded to other chats, meaning only the recipient can see it on their account. It also expires automatically after an hour, but you can choose to stop sharing it anytime.
To share your location, follow these steps:
1. Open the Instagram chat where you want to share your directions.
2. Tap the + (plus) icon next to the message box.
3. Choose Location.
4. When using the feature for the first time, you’ll see an introduction to the basics. Tap Continue.
5. Next, tap Share Your Location.
Your live location will now be shared with the other person for one hour, allowing them to view your current location and get directions to you. Tap the View button below your message to see a larger map with your live location and the remaining duration. Select Stop Sharing Location to turn it off.
Make sure you’ve set Instagram’s location access to “Always.” You can change this by going to Settings > Apps > Instagram and setting it to Always. This ensures your location is available even when you’re not actively using Instagram.
Method 2: Using Google Maps to Share Live Location on Instagram
If you don’t see the live location feature on Instagram or prefer another way, use Google Maps:
- Open Google Maps and tap your profile icon on the top right.
- Select Location Sharing and choose New Share.
- Set a time limit for how long you want to share it. It’s set to 1 hour by default.
- Copy the Link and paste it into your Instagram chat.
The other person can now use your Google Maps link to access your real-time location. You can stop sharing anytime by returning to the same page. This method works even if the other person doesn’t have Instagram’s live location feature.
These are two quick methods to share your real-time location with anyone via Instagram. Just remember to share your location only with people you trust, and turn it off as soon as you’re done. Stay safe and meet in public places when possible.
