I've had the opposite experience. Google Maps has enabled me to explore randomly with a lot more confidence than before. Now I'm much more willing to take a random side-road, knowing that I won't get lost even if there are no street name signs. I also know that I can return to my original destination as efficiently as possible instead of getting stuck unable to merge back onto a motorway.

Similarly, I'm now much more relaxed about taking random road trips to "wherever". I know I can find fuel, food, and bathrooms.