7 Useful Apps Every Traveler Should Know About
By Harrison Pierce
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Technology continues to make travel easier for millions of people around the globe. New apps offer travelers fresh ways to research a destination, connect with fellow globetrotters, communicate with locals, and track their flights. As a full-time digital nomad , I’ve learned the importance of having the right tools at your disposal when on the road.
Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of countries, flown hundreds of thousands of miles, and tested countless apps to find the ones that prove to be the most helpful. And while tools like Meetup, Google Maps, Google Translate, currency converters, and vacation rental , airline, and hotel–specific apps are in fact indispensable on most trips, I find that many of the best travel apps are still undiscovered by my fellow travelers.
Below, seven travel apps that make life on the go markedly easier (and more fun), from real-time flight trackers to photo-sharing gems—all of these apps are free, but some have paid pro versions worth considering. Don’t think these apps are only for full-time travelers—they prove useful for every type of traveler, whether you're in a brand-new destination or back for a return visit.
Discover the best apps for travelers:
Apps for flying, apps for exploring, apps for photo sharing.
My favorite app on this list is Flighty, a must-have for any frequent flier . The free version is fantastic, but I recommend splurging for the premium version, which gives you even more useful information and comes at a reasonable cost of $48 per year. The functionality it provides more than justifies the price.
The free version allows you to input all future flights plus past journeys you've taken within the last year. It provides updated information if any schedule changes occur to upcoming flights and allows you to track all the miles you’ve flown in one place.
The other main benefit is that it allows you to share your flight information with friends and family members who are also on Flighty. They will receive real-time updates about your flight without you having to text them. My parents love to make sure I’m safe so they appreciate getting detailed information about my travels—even while I’m in the air.
Flightradar24 is a favorite app among fellow aviation geeks. It lets you track almost any aircraft you see in the air throughout the day or night. You can track your own flight, a friend's flight, or any plane you see in real-time. It shares plenty of cool data, like the altitude, speed, arrival and departure airports and times, and tail number.
There are tons of eSIM apps on the market, but Airalo is probably my favorite, with digital SIM cards available for dozens of countries. I find it to be the most reliable and offers the best data packages. It can be a little pricey, but it is the best option if you’re only taking short trips. Holafly is another eSIM app that offers unlimited data and works well, but I find the app to be much more glitchy than Airalo and would recommend using the desktop version.
This one is for the planner of the group. Wanderlog merges the best of a bunch of different apps into one. Imagine an app that lets you plan a trip with ease: collaborate with friends as if you’re on Google Docs, manage expense tracking like Splitwise, and have a central place for your reservations, checklists, and more. Tripit is a similar travel planner app, so you can download both and get a feel for which interface you like better.
Been allows you to track the countries you’ve visited and make a wish list of places you can’t wait to cross off your travel bucket list . It gives you information like the percentage of the globe you’ve been to and shows you a world map of your trips. It’s always fun to add in a new country whenever I reach my destination.
This app was introduced to me by fellow nomads I met at a cafe in Montevideo, Uruguay . It automatically tracks your route across the world, allowing you to quickly upload pictures throughout your travels that can be viewed by anyone who has access to your profile. It’s an excellent way to share important moments with loved ones without needing to send photos to each person individually. Users can also create easily accessible guides filled with up-to-date information to help you plan your own trip.
Steller is another app that a friend recently introduced me to, and I’ve quickly fallen in love with it. It uses a combination of AI and user experiences to help you plan trips around the globe. From recommendations of things to see, like the Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires or the Royal Palace of Naples, to full guidebooks created by users, you can get inspired, book experiences, and discover hidden gems within this app.
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The 9 Best Travel Apps
These days, everyone travels with a smartphone. Beyond the ability to take endless selfies and keep in touch with family back home, they provide us with a never-ending stream of tools and apps to help us plan our travels and deal with any hiccups we encounter on the road.
Unfortunately, while there’s no shortage of travel apps, most of them are terrible.
To help you avoid downloading (and maybe even paying for) apps that aren’t worth your time, I’ve compiled a list of my favorite travel apps. These apps will save you time, money, and help you make the most of your travels. They’re the apps I think every traveler should have on their phone before they leave home.
Table of Contents
1. GetYourGuide
2. loungebuddy, 3. hostelworld, 4. skyscanner, 6. xe currency converter, 7. google translate, 8. happycow, 9. gasbuddy.
Whether you’re in the planning stages and looking for things to fill out your upcoming itinerary or you’re already in a new country and want something to do later that day, GetYourGuide can help. I’ve used them a bunch and always have a great time!
LoungeBuddy takes the pain out of the process. After entering your credit card, airline status, and lounge memberships, the app tells you which lounges you can access at any given airport. It makes even the longest layover tolerable so you can relax and enjoy your travels. And if you don’t have status, you can book lounge access directly through the app. It’s easy to use, and free to download.
You can also use the app to see who else is staying at the hostel. You can join a group chat for the hostel and connect with travelers to make plans before you arrive. In short, it’s a must-download app for backpackers and solo travelers. The app is free to download.
The best feature of the app, however, is the ability to search for flights to everywhere . You simply input your departure airport and the dates you want to travel, and it will bring up all the potential options — from cheapest to most expensive — so you can browse for ideas without needing to check each one manually.
If you want to save money on flights, this app is a must. The app is free too.
The basic version is free while the pro version is $49 USD per year.
If you have to stay on budget (and don’t want to get ripped off), download this app. It’s free.
The app can read out your text too so you can hear how it is properly pronounced, and you can also use your camera to take photos of text that it can translate too (which is helpful if you need to read ingredients while shopping, for example). The app is free.
The app is free but for $9.99 USD per month, you can upgrade to premium, which saves you 20 cents a gallon (up to 50 gallons) and provides 24/7 roadside assistance.
While it’s important to not spend your entire trip on your phone or social media, there are times when using your smartphone can easily improve the quality of your trip, keep you safe, and save you money. By downloading the apps above, you’ll be able to have a much smoother trip, giving you more time, energy, and money to invest in your next adventure.
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
- SafetyWing (best for everyone)
- Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
- Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)
Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.
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The best trip planner apps to make your travels easier
Booking a trip can be an exciting yet daunting task. As if booking airfare, hotel, and transportation weren't enough, you also need to consider food, sights, and attractions. As a travel lover myself, I often dread planning and preparing for a trip. Not only do I never have the time, but I often get oversaturated by the vast amount of information found online and the fear of getting scammed.
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Over the years, I've found the best websites and apps to help smooth out the planning process. These apps help me keep track of all my reservations, send me booking reminders, and guarantee I always find the best prices -- because there is nothing worse than falling for tourist traps or overpriced offerings.
Whether you are a spontaneous or a nitty-gritty planner traveler, ZDNET has tested and reviewed the best trip planner apps on the market. Our top pick for the best trip planner site and app is Booking.com due to its easy-to-use user interface, extensive booking capabilities, and pricing. However, since not every trip or traveler is the same, we've included several options to help you plan and stay organized during your travels.
Keep reading to learn more about ZDNET's expert-tested and reviewed trip planner apps.
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The best trip planner apps of 2023
Booking.com, best overall trip planner.
- Multiple bookings
- Great deals
- Can earn points from bookings and reservations
- Easy to use
- No group planning
- Can't organize bookings per trip
Booking.com features: Platform: App and website | Compatibility: iOS and Android | Pricing: Free | Booking: Yes | Group planning: No
When planning my trips, I always make a stop at the Booking.com app, especially when reserving hotels. I find their user interface visually appealing and easy to use, and that it provides just the right amount of information I need when scrolling through hotel suggestions. Personally, I enjoy that I can add my top picks to my favorites with a quick tap of a heart, glance through reviews, look at cancellation policies, and even find out how far away hotels are from key spots. Through Booking.com, you can also book flights, car rentals, taxis, and city attractions, making it a great all-in-one place to plan and book upcoming weekend getaways or longer vacations. While I have personally never used the car rentals, taxis, or city attractions components of the app, I enjoy knowing that if I ever needed to, I can quickly hop on my phone and glance at the latest offerings.
My favorite feature when using Booking.com to plan trips is the offers and promotions it displays for users. In the app, when you click your profile, you can see your "Genius" loyalty program status as well as discover the best deals around the world for your specific chosen dates. My only critique of Booking.com is that it does not enable group trip planning or let you organize your bookings per trip. This means if you are planning a trip with a friend, only one person can book and have access to reservations.
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Best trip planner for organization
- Synced with e-mail inbox
- Organizes reservations no matter where you book
- Works offline
- Can't make any bookings
- Need to pay for advanced features
- UI could use an upgrade
TripIt features: Platform: App and website | Compatibility: iOS and Android | Pricing: Free or $49 per year | Booking: No | Group planning: Yes
In terms of planning a trip, creating an itinerary, and keeping all your information in one place, TripIt is one of the best travel apps to keep yourself organized. When you first create an account, TripIt will sync with your inbox and automatically add all of your upcoming flights and reservations to your account. You can then modify each trip to include as little or as much information as you'd like. As someone who likes to be spontaneous when traveling, I usually only add the essentials: flight information, hotel reservations, and important documents. However, if you like to plan your trips down by the hour, you can also include activities, restaurant reservations, transportation, and more in your trip plan to share with fellow travelers.
As your trip approaches, TripIt will also send you packing reminders, give you COVID-19 travel guidance, and show transportation options. While you can get most of the essential features within the free version of the app (this is the one I use), you can also pay $49 a year to get advanced features such as check-in reminders, real-time flight alerts, point tracking, and even notifications for drops in airfare prices.
Keep in mind that while TripIt gives you transportation options and finds places near your hotel, you cannot book or make any reservations directly from the app. The app is solely used to organize and keep track of all of your travel plans in one place, no matter where you book them.
Best AI trip planner
- Personalized travel itinerary
- Hotel booking
- Can modify recommendations
- Group planning enabled
- Only available as a website
- No flight or restaurant booking
Guide features: Platform: Website Compatibility: all major browsers | Pricing: Free | Booking: Yes, but hotels only | Group Planning: Yes Generative AI is everyone's favorite buzzword this year, and slowly but surely, it has been making its way across all industries -- including the travel industry. Guide is an innovative AI travel planning tool that creates personalized travel itineraries based on your preferences. (Full disclosure, it's also owned by ZDNET's sister company. It's currently in private beta, but you can join a wait list.) All you need to do is select your destination, the dates, whether you are traveling alone or in a group, your budget, and the types of activities you are looking for, and Guide will do the planning.
After generating a trip itinerary for you based on your prompt, Guide then lets you modify and customize the itinerary to your liking. I recently used Guide to plan a six-day trip to Austin, Texas, and this was the feature I enjoyed the most, since I had specific restaurants and activities I wanted to incorporate into my trip, but I also needed some additional recommendations. While you can't book flights or restaurant reservations through Guide, you can book and find great hotel deals powered by Expedia on the platform.
Guide will also give you an overall budget for your trip, a packing list, and a comprehensive list of things to know about your destination -- which may be helpful for some more than others. While my trip to Austin was a solo trip, Guide has a feature where you can invite other fellow travelers to collaborate in planning your trip through Guide's chatbot, GuideBot. This chatbot also works sort of like ChatGPT, where you can ask GuideBot questions about your trip, your destination, or recommendations. Keep in mind you can not ask GuideBot to directly modify your trip for you, and instead need to manually do it yourself -- believe me, I tried.
Tripadvisor
Best trip planner app for reviews.
- Countless reviews
- Used by travelers worldwide
- Variety of information
- Booking capabilities
- Great for local spots
- Booking is not its strongest feature and you may not always find the best deals
- Doesn't vet reviews
Tripadvisor features: Platform: App and website | Compatibility: iOS and Android | Pricing: Free | Booking: Yes | Group planning: No
Reading customer reviews is one of the most important steps when planning a trip. While you shouldn't base all of your decisions on reviews, you should consider past customer experiences to get a feel for the brand and company you are about to trust, or the experience you are going to pay for. When it comes to travel reviews, Tripadvisor is the best trip planner app to rely on. Since the platform has so many reviews for restaurants, activities, accommodations, and locations all over the world, it is always easy and convenient to log onto the app or website to help you make an educated decision. (However, remember that not all Tripadvisor reviews are legit, since the platform does not independently verify customer postings.) Beyond reviews, TripAdvisor also lets you book hotels, restaurants, things to do, and more while also providing detailed insights into their offerings -- including cancellation policies, ratings, and features.
Tripadvisor's "Travelers' Choice" best-of list is also a popular part of its platform, allowing visitors to see top-rated destinations, hotels, restaurants, and things to do around the world. With Tripadvisor, you can plan a trip yourself from scratch, hire a trip designer, or get a custom itinerary built by AI.
Best trip planner app for transportation
- Great multi-mode travel comparison
- convenient and seamless transportation booking
- Multiple currency and language availability
- Flight deals and suggestions are not the strongest
- Limited offers depending on the country or city of travel
- Not the most reliable customer service
Omio features: Platform: App and website | Compatibility: iOS and Android | Pricing: Free | Booking: Yes, transportation only | Group planning: No
I first discovered Omio when a friend recommended it to me while I was studying abroad in Spain, and ever since I downloaded it, it has become my go-to app for booking the best deals and fares on transportation within Europe. The concept behind Omio is simple: You plug in your departure and arrival location, including the number of people you are traveling with, and add whether you are looking for a one-way or round-trip journey. Omio will then show you the best deals by train, bus, or plane to and from your desired destination, including how much time each option will take you and the number of stops.
The German-based travel booking site is great at aggregating travel information from multiple sites, allowing you to view all of your transportation options in one place. This is incredibly beneficial when planning trips within Europe since there are several ways you can cross each border and often various languages and regulations to keep in mind. Omio is set in English but has multiple additional languages available, as well as currency options. During my time abroad, I solely used Omio to book all of my transportation, including planning a 17-day trip across seven different European countries. Overall, using Omio was not only convenient and seamless but also helped me save hundreds of dollars by helping me maximize my travel time by switching between flights, trains, and buses.
However, since returning from Europe, I have not used Omio as much as I thought I would -- maybe because I have a car and take most of my trips by plane. And Omio's flight deals and suggestions are not the strongest compared to Booking.com or Skyscanner's, which heavily focus on flight deals. I have also found they have some limitations depending on the country or city you are traveling in. Be mindful of the deals and tickets you buy through Omio since some tickets are non-refundable, and some customers complain their customer service is not the best -- although I have yet to have any issues with them.
What is the best trip planner app?
Booking.com gets our vote for the best trip planner app due to its wide selection of accommodations, its points and promotions offerings, and its easy-to-use user interface. Not only does Booking.com help you find the best deals throughout your trip, but it will also help you stay organized throughout your trip by keeping all of your reservations in one place. To determine which trip planner app or combination of trip planners is best for you, check out this comparison chart below.
Which is the right trip planner app for you?
The best trip planner app ultimately depends on your travel and planning style. If you like booking and planning everything in one place while also earning points and getting great deals, then Booking.com is your top app. However, if you are looking for a place to keep all of your accommodations, reservations, and activity details organized, then TripIt is a better app for you. Check out the following chart to help you find the best trip planner app or a combination of apps for you to plan your next adventure.
How did we choose these trip planner apps?
To find the best trip planner apps, we drew upon real-life experiences and tested their performance and capabilities during our latest trips. Ultimately, we weighted the following factors when choosing which trip planners to include on our list:
- Features: Each app can vary significantly with the features it offers, whether it is solely to book flights and hotels, help you plan your next trip using AI, or help you find the best deals and booking information, each app on this list can help you address several common inconveniences that present themselves while planning that next adventure.
- Compatibility: An app is of little use if it does not work with your devices, so we look to see what compatibility each trip-planning app offers and which platforms you can access it from. Personally, I enjoy apps that combine an app and website component since this quickly helps me switch between my wide computer screen and my tiny yet portable iPhone screen.
- Customer reviews: We study real customer reviews and ratings to evaluate customer satisfaction and service. This is incredibly important since most times when you travel, you visit an unknown city or country, and you should be mindful of past experiences others have had.
- Cost : Most trip planner apps are free, but you may have to upgrade to receive special access to exclusive features or deals. If your app is already free, it means you only have to pay a small amount (often unnoticeable) when you book your accommodations.
What is a trip planner app?
A trip planner app is an app that provides organizational features for your upcoming trip. It is often free and incorporates trip planning tools, whether you are traveling by ground, water or air.
How does a trip planner app work?
A trip planner app can incorporate special features, like an itinerary, calendar, reservation and booking hub, and map assistance. Depending on the app you choose, there is even trip-sharing with friends and family to simplify the entire trip planning process.
How much does a trip planner app cost?
Most trip planner apps are free, but some may offer in-app purchases to upgrade or enhance your experience. Within this list, only Tripit costs money, but only for their advanced features version, which costs $49 a year. However, you can get access to most if not all, trip-planning features, through their free version.
Are there alternative trip planner apps worth considering?
As I mentioned earlier, trip planning heavily depends on your personal style of travel and preferences. However, whether you like to plan your trips down by the minute or prefer to just have the basics, there are several apps that can optimize your planning. Here are a few apps worth considering that almost made it onto our list:
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iPhone 14 Pro
The 3 best modern travel apps on ios for 2023.
Traveling can be an exciting and enjoyable experience, but planning a trip can often be stressful, time-consuming, and ultimately have a poor outcome. Fortunately, with the help of iOS and the millions of apps in the iOS App Store, planning travel has become much easier. There are a plethora of travel apps available for iOS that can help you plan your trip, book your flights, and find the best deals. I am personally in the process of booking a trip in the fall with multiple flights, hotels, and countries. The three apps I will be mentioning have made planning this trip much, much easier.
Before we start
If you are a veteran of the travel hacking and credit card point game, then this post might not be for you. I will be primarily focusing on the apps that help you get the best deals from a dollar perspective, not point/miles redemption. Now let’s get started!
1. FareDrop
FareDrop has been one of my absolute favorite apps to help me find the best deals when it comes to flights. If you have a flexible schedule and like to travel for cheap, then look no further than FareDrop. This app is the brainchild of travel YouTubers Kara and Nate . They wanted to help people find cheap ways to travel so they could explore the world just as they have.
FareDrop works by monitoring price drops and notifying you when a deal is available. The app tracks prices for specific flights and sends notifications when the price drops, allowing you to book the flight at a lower cost. It’s easy to set up – all you do is select a few of the local airports around you, and then it uses that info to find flights from that origin airport. The prices shown on the dashboard are round-trip prices. So you can see that NYC to DC is only $108!
By default, FareDrop will provide you with free service for domestic economy flights. There are two other plans that are worth considering, especially if you are looking to fly internationally. The first paid plan is $49 a year and provides you with the same alert system but also includes international economy flights. The second and highest tier gives you access to business-class flights, both domestically and internationally, for $99 a year. So if you are looking to splurge on business class but still want to pay way less, then the Global Pro Plan could be for you. I have booked a few domestic flights with it, and it has saved me hundreds of dollars, just for me waiting for alerts to come in. It’s continuously improving and getting updated.
Hopper is another iOS app that is focused on helping you find the best deals on flights. The app uses advanced algorithms to predict when flight prices are likely to be at their lowest, and it can even suggest the best time to book your flight. Hopper claims that it can save users up to 40% on their flights by finding the best deals.
One of the best features of Hopper is its price-tracking functionality. You can set up alerts for specific flights, and the app will notify you when the price drops. You can also use the app to search for flights and compare prices across different airlines. Hopper also provides a price calendar that shows the best days to fly for the cheapest fares.
Hopper not only gives you pricing for flights, but it also can let you book hotels, car rentals, and even Airbnb-like rental homes. Over the years, Hopper has added an abundance of features, like free rewards, Carrot Cash, and even their own store. The main features are free to use, but you can purchase things like Hopper Matches, where Hopper will match up to $20 when you deposit money into their Carrot Cash system and more.
Some have said that Hopper has added almost too many functions and features – almost to the point where it’s a bit complicated – but if you have used Hopper in the past, then you know just how valuable it can be when planning travel months in advance. Their pricing calendar and alert system alone are worth giving Hopper a try.
Flighty is the new kid on the block. I learned about it when Live activities were introduced in iOS 16, and I began to see a very cool flight tracker on users’ lock screens. Flighty is a bit different from the first two apps I mentioned. Flighty is primarily used to keep tabs on your upcoming or current flight. But it gives so much more information than you ever thought possible.
Of course, you get the standard things like flight duration, departure, and arrival, but it goes much further than that. It helps you stay up to date on any changes to your flights, from delays to cancellations. The app uses machine learning algorithms to predict potential issues with your flights, and it can even suggest alternative flights in case of disruptions. This means that you can plan for any possible delays and avoid surprises at the airport.
Top comment by pbmv6060842
Respectfully and in appreciation of your rundown — these are airfare search tools, not “travel apps.”
One of the best features of Flighty is its ability to track your flights in real time. The app uses data from multiple sources to provide accurate information about your flight, including gate changes and estimated departure and arrival times. It can also provide push notifications about any changes to your flight status, so you are always up to date.
Then my favorite part of the app is the flight log. Flighty will start to track how many miles you have flown, the flights taken, from which airports, and how many countries you’ve visited. There is a free trial that unlocks all their cool services, and it costs $49.99 per year. If you travel more than once a year, I think it’s worth it!
These three travel apps are among the best options available for iOS users who want to plan their travel, find the best deals on flights, and track everywhere they are going. Whether you’re looking for real-time flight information, predictions on flight prices, or price tracking functionality, Flighty, Hopper, and FareDrop have got you covered. With the help of these apps, you can make your travel experience much more enjoyable, stress-free, and save some hard-earned cash along the way.
What do you think of these apps? Have you tried them before? How often do you travel? Let’s discuss in the comments and see what other readers do to maximize their dollars while traveling!
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8 of the best travel apps that travel editors can't live without
By Charlotte Davey
The best travel apps, when used to your advantage, can be the most indispensable companion for a trip. Not only can they save you time and money, but they can also reduce any journey-induced stress. Need to work out costs on a group trip , translate a menu, or get from A to B when you don’t speak the language? There’s an App for that. But just as you don’t need a suitcase laden with unworn clothing, no one needs a phone clogged with gimmicky or useless apps. We asked our jet-setting editors to share the apps they genuinely use while travelling and the lesser-known gems that have saved a holiday. So while the BA App, Rome2Rio, or Monzo might be stalwarts of the frequent flyer’s home screen, here are the clever, hardworking Apps our travel insiders swear by.
Cost: Free to use (Wanderlog Pro includes additional features and costs around £40 per year)
USP: One of the best travel apps for planning every kind of trip, including road trips and group travel: create a trip itinerary, budget costs, organise flights and hotel reservations, and collaborate with friends. After your trip, share a travel guide to inspire other travellers.
Wanderlog brings everything you need to plan your trips into one seamless app experience. Its user-friendly, web-scanning database contains a huge wealth of information about sights, attractions and places to eat and drink. Not only can you find recommended hotspots through the app and add these to a map view, but you can also import reservation and flight details from your emails. Wanderlog is especially ideal for group trips. Your customised itineraries and lists can be edited by multiple people in real time, and users can leave notes for fellow travellers – such as a reminder of the must-have dish or dress code at a restaurant. Smart AI functionality means that the app can offer (editable) auto-generated itineraries as well. And if that isn’t enough, you can track expenses and cost-splitting too, indispensable for larger groups and squabble-prone families. Toyo Odetunde
Cost: Free to download.
USP: Request a chauffeur-driven, class-leading car on-demand or in advance for yourself or on behalf of others.
Wheely is a seriously plush chauffeur service within an easy-to-use app, currently operating in London, Paris , Dubai, and Moscow. What makes this ideal for the frequent flyer is that you can add in your flight details when booking an airport pick-up, so the driver knows exactly what time you’ll be landing (so no risk of them driving off if you’ve been delayed), and they’ll be ready and waiting for you (with your name on a sign) at arrivals. For any other queries, you can live chat with a real person (no bot responses here) – for example, if they can provide a baby seat (which they happily did for a recent family holiday ). Cars come with water and chargers as standard, and drivers are friendly, professional and knowledgeable. Peace of mind at the click of a button. Charlotte Davey
Hong Kong Taxi Cards
Cost: £1.99
USP: With over 9,000 Hong Kong addresses translated into written Chinese and Cantonese, equipped with a function to request additional addresses and get feedback quickly, this is not an ordinary dictionary-type translator app.
This is indispensable for travelling around Hong Kong if you’re not fluent in Cantonese. The App has pretty much every address ready in Chinese and Cantonese, so you can show your taxi driver where you want to go without getting lost in translation. It also has a speaking option which delivers the address fluently, which is really helpful if you have zero grasp of the language. Another handy feature is that the App will show you the journey time and estimate fare – something to remember is that not all taxis have card machines so you’ll need to make sure you have enough cash on you before you hail a cab. Matt Buck
Cost: Free to download (Splitwise Pro costs £2.79)
Connor Sturges
Sarah James
Clara Laguna
USP: Splitwise is the easiest way to share expenses with friends and family and stop stressing about “who owes who”.
This is a game changer for working out costs on group trips. Everyone in the party signs up, and then you simply enter your expenses as you go – with a description of what it was (flights, accommodation, food, etc) and who it needs to be split between (i.e. the whole group or just those who were in the taxi, for example). It’s a great way to stay on top of costs, from larger expenses to smaller spending, like a round at the bar. At the end of the trip, click ‘simplify debts’, and you should be left with just one transaction each to ensure everyone has paid the same amount. You can label each trip and see who has settled up, and if someone doesn’t pay the App will send them helpful reminders (saving pennies and friendships). Charlotte Davey
Google Translate
USP: Translate between up to 133 languages with instant camera translation.
Google Translate is nothing new, but if you download the app, you can use the camera on your phone to upload signs, labels, or menus for an instant translation. This is a lifesaver for travelling in a country that doesn’t use the English alphabet or a language you’re unsure how to pronounce. The platform is currently proficient in 133 languages, so this is a great one wherever you are in the world. The App also works offline so you don’t need to worry about data roaming charges. Another function that is noteworthy is the speaker option – not only can you point your phone at a sign for a translation, but it will then speak in your chosen language, which is particularly helpful for those who are visually impaired. Charlotte Davey
USP: Find wheelchair-accessible restaurants, cafes, toilets, shops, cinemas, parking lots, bus stops and much more.
Developed by a not-for-profit company based in Germany , this is a great app for wheelchair users, families travelling with prams, or even for those with heavy suitcases navigating public transport. Operating in over 30 countries, a vast number of restaurants, stations, shops, and more are shown on an interactive map with a traffic light system for whether it is fully accessible (green), part accessible (yellow), or not accessible (red). The App replies to users rating places they have visited, so less touristy areas won’t have as much information. Charlotte Davey
Cost: Free to download
USP: Stay connected in over 200 countries and regions. Install an eSIM and get online in minutes with no roaming fees.
Especially handy if you’re travelling through different countries, Airalo allows you to use different eSim cards to keep your data roaming costs down. The App is free to download, and then simply choose the country you’re in, and select a data plan depending on how long you're there and how much you’ll be using your phone. You can often save around £10 for a week's holiday which is worth it if you’re a frequent flyer or watching the pennies while travelling. Sophie Knight
Cost: Free to use. In-app purchases.
USP: Whering is the digital wardrobe and styling app where you can curate, organise, style and plan your outfits.
Whering is essentially a portable digital wardrobe – a ‘Clueless’ style outfit planner on your mobile phone. Fill your in-app wardrobe by uploading photos of your clothes, or by importing images from the app’s cosmic database or your favourite online retailers. Whering will then process these images into sleek, combinable ‘cut-outs’, allowing you to put together countless outfits, looks and mood boards, which can also be organised by occasion. If you’re short on time, or feeling either uninspired or spontaneous, Whering’s AI can deliver outfit suggestions in seconds – even taking into account the weather forecast, ideal when travelling a country you’re not familiar with (or just braving London’s erratic climes). The Planner function is especially great for trips, storing your outfit ideas for specific dates and events. Also great for travel planning is the packing list feature; you can add items to a packing list for a particular destination, and Whering can suggest items you may have forgotten. Toyo Odetunde
Best Travel Apps (Updated for 2023)
Travel apps have made going on holiday a completely different experience from the old days of calling a travel agent, and then having to rely on word of mouth once you arrive to find nice things to do and see.
Nowadays your smartphone can book everything from flights, rental cars, and accommodation to let you know what fun and tasty experiences are around you.
At A Glance: Our Top Combo Of Travel Apps
- Best Travel Agent Kayak Jump To Review
- Best For Accommodation Airbnb Jump To Review
- Best For Local Travel Google Maps Jump To Review
- Best For Organization Packpoint Jump To Review
- Best Local Info TripAdvisor Jump To Review
Now that the world is finally opening up again, it’s time to start planning your next trip somewhere fun and beautiful. In this review, we have put together some of the best travel apps around for iOS and Android to help you find, plan, and experience the best vacation possible.
Top Product Overview
Best travel apps, booking flights & accommodation.
Buying the least expensive flights and accommodation is a dark art in this day and age, but luckily there are some apps that make it easier. Have a look at our best flight deals and accommodation booking apps that’ll ensure you’re getting the best price for travel needs.
Not only do they help on price but also with ensuring you find the right place and flight for your wants and needs.
If all you want is a bargain flight then the award-winning app Hopper is right up your street. Available on both iOS and Android , it’s similar to both Kayak and Skyscanner in that you can see the cheapest dates to fly on, but the difference is that Hopper will tell you when to buy your tickets by sending you a notification.
Hopper analyzes billions of flights, watching the price changes, and then informs you when to buy in order to get a deal. The app claims to be able to help you save money. You save 40% on your next booking, so it’s well worth a shot.
The user interface is clean and easy to use, and it only takes 60 seconds to book a flight.
They have now started doing hotel bookings too, and you can set up a tracker for a specific hotel instead of the whole city it’s in.
- Save up to 40% on flights
- Clean and easy to use
- You can track specific hotel costs to save on your booking
- Book a flight within 60 seconds
- It tells you exactly when to buy to save on your booking
Skyscanner is almost an all-in-one travel agent app that’s available on both iOS and Android . You can book flights, hotels, and rent a car from the palm of your hand using this app.
The app works by searching for the cheapest deals and best options through all its travel partners. It shows you the cheapest dates to book, you can set price alerts and if you’re not sure where to go, you can put in your departing airport and search “Anywhere” or “Top Deals” to give you a list of the most affordable destinations available.
Once booked, it’ll update your flight status as need and give you all your info in one place.
Want to know if Skyscanner is legit? Check out this detailed guide .
- All in one travel agent for hotels, flights and car hire
- You can do special searches to find the best deals from your departing airport
- It shows you the cheapest dates to book
- You can set up price alerts
- Handy booking statues info page
Kayak is another all in one travel app for travel agents similar to Skyscanner. They often, in our experience have better deals, but its best to check both.
Kayak searches for the best deal they can find through all their travel partners, whether it’s flights, accommodation, or car hire, they have got you covered. They often have exclusive deals too, that aren’t available anywhere else.
You can set price alerts for your intended trip, use the forecasting tool to see whether it’s worth buying now or if the price may go down, plus it’s a trip planner too.
Kayak’s trip planner gives you important details quickly, like a reservation number or your departure gate, in real-time, even on your Apples Watch.
It’s an awesome all in one travel agent that’s available on both iOS and Android .
ALSO READ: IS KAYAK LEGIT?
- Trip planner section updates you about your bookings in real-time
- Have exclusive deals no one else does
- Price alerts and a forecasting tool
- Books hotels, flights, and car hire
- It shows you the least expensive dates to book
HotelTonight
We all know the headache and expenses involved when you experience long flight delays or if you lose your accommodation at a moment’s notice. Anything can happen when jet setting around the world and Hotel Tonight is one of those helpful travel apps that makes things a bit easier when it all goes wrong.
Available on both iOS and Android , Hotel Tonight is one of the best travel apps to find you a quick last-minute deal on your accommodation. They have partnered with hundreds of hotels to fill their empty rooms. It works for the hotels and gets you a great deal too.
You can book a room in seconds and you also have the added benefit of Hotel Tonight’s 24/7 customer service that helps fix anything that might have gone wrong. The app now includes a Daily Drop feature offering you the best deal for the day.
Using the travel app, you can book multiple rooms and then share the info into a group chap, making it easy as pie.
- Awesome last-minute hotel deals
- Offers up the deal of the day
- Book multiple rooms and share with a group chat
We have all heard of Airbnb and its model is one we all wish we had thought of. The app allows people to rent out their homes to travelers like us, giving us a sense of a home away from home. It’s often a bit less expensive than a hotel too and is available on both iOS and Android .
Not only can you rent an entire house for your stay, but you can also opt to rent a room giving you a local experience and the chance to get to know some people in the area. There’s also an option to book experiences which are events or activities that are available in your chosen destination.
Once you have found what you’re looking for, you can check hundreds of reviews about your intended booking to make sure it meets your standards. The interface is very easy to use, you can search based on all your requirements, and it displays it on a map for you, so you can see exactly where you might be staying.
- Book a home away from home
- Excellent interface and great searching
- Chance to engage with the local culture
- Save compared to a hotel
- Book experiences in the area with a local guide
Booking.com
Booking.com is available on both iOS and Android and is one of the best travel apps for finding deals on your accommodation.
You can search around your intended area and see the best deals available in seconds. It works for advance bookings and last-minute ones too.
They have thousands of hotels, B&B’s, motels, and hostels linked to their app, and the comparison feature shows you the prices, reviews, amenities, and rating of all the accommodation options near where you want to stay.
The app has over 130 million reviews, so you’ll know exactly what to expect from each establishment to make your decision about whether it’s the place for you or not.
It’s an easy app to use, you can book in seconds without any fees, plus there is 24/7 customer support available too.
RELATED POST : If you are looking for alternatives to Booking.com to book your hotel or vacation property, check out this guide .
- Has one of the largest accommodation databases to give you the most options
- Great for finding advanced and last minute deals
- Easy to use with a great search feature
- Booking is quick and easy with no fees
- Provides a rating and a lot of reviews about every option
Getting Around
When you arrive at a new place you’ve never been before, there’s always that daunting feeling about getting lost. You naturally want to explore but you have to find out how to get from A to B, whether you can walk there, use public transport, do you need a taxi and so on. Luckily, there are some great apps to help you out.
Citymapper, available on both iOS and Android , is one of the best travel apps you can use to find and use public transport. It currently covers 41 cities worldwide and the list is ever-growing.
It’ll find your location if you let it, and then you simply add your destination into the search tool to find all you transportation options. You can even search by arrival time for your destination, showing you when you need to leave by so you’ll never be late.
The app lists the search results by journey time, departing time, cost, and includes public transport, walking, taxis, and floating brands like bicycles, moped, and car-sharing. You can even search for wheelchair-accessible options too.
If you’re on the bus, the Citymapper travel app will tell you when to get off, so you don’t miss your spot. This is really useful when riding around an area you don’t know.
- Finds you all your transport options in 41 countries
- Includes public transport, taxis, and walking
- you can search by arrival time
- Easy to use and displays results with all the details you may need
- Includes searches for wheelchair accessibility, cycle, mopeds, and car sharing
Google Maps
Google Maps is one of the best map apps around. And its one of those must-have free travel apps too!
Available on both the iOS and Android app store, there is a never-ending list of things it can do and tell you about any given area on the planet.
The travel app will give you directions for car travel, walking, cycling, and public transport. While walking, cycling, or driving, it acts as a GPS, telling you when to turn and guiding you to your destination on the fastest route available. It even shows you high traffic areas and helps you avoid them.
When using public transport, the Google Maps app offers up departure times, costs, journey times, and a taxi option too. It’s a pretty reliable worldwide.
If you’re worried about data costs when abroad, you can also download offline maps for specific areas for use when you have no internet connection. So, you don’t have to rely on an internet connection to know where you are or what’s around you.
Not only can you search for how to get from A to B on Google Maps, but also find restaurants, bars, museums, hotels, attractions, and more. The app will also let you know how busy each place is in real-time, so you can wait for the crowds to leave before you get there.
There is now a Your Places page, which allows you to add, view and manage all your favorite places in one place.
- GPS navigation for walking, cycling, and driving worldwide
- Public transport options for all cities worldwide
- Download map areas for use offline
- Find anything around your from restaurants to hotels
- Manage all your favorite places in the Your Places page
If you’re in need of a taxi, Uber is the most convenient app to use. Available on both the iOS and Android app store, it works in 65 countries and over 600 cities to bring reliable taxi services direct to your location.
The travel app saves you have to stand in the rain at a taxi rank or search for a reliable taxi service. All the drivers are rated by other users, so you can guarantee you’re in safe hands and you can share your trip, with all vehicle and driver information with a loved one.
You can request a car within minutes after knowing the rates, time of arrival, and choosing your desired vehicle and driver.
Once booked, you can track your car until it arrives and Uber will let you know when it’s outside. You can trip share or book your own private car, or split the fare with friends, all in the app.
This is a cashless service and everything is paid either via debit or credit card within the app, you can even leave a tip too.
- Works in hundreds of cities
- Request a car to your door
- All drivers are rated to ensure a great service
- Saves you having to search for reliable taxis in a new place
- Track an follow your car, and share your trip details with others
- Book a shared car, private car and split the fare with other passengers
Planning & Organisation
In this busy day and age, there is always something we forget when trying to get on the road for a vacation. It might be your snorkel gear, sun cream, or forgetting to download that book you wanted to read. These apps help you stay organized.
There are also travel apps to show you fun things to do at your destination. If you’re looking for a nice place to eat, some interesting activities to do, or simply want to know all your options so you can make a plan, these apps have you covered.
Life’s so busy that making lists has become the norm to ensure nothing is forgotten. The notes section of our phones are jam-packed with everything from shopping lists to to-do lists, and most likely your vacation packing list. But, what if your list was made for you?
Packpoint, a travel app available on iOs and Android , takes the headache out of remembering everything. It looks at the weather for your dates and destination, asks you what activities you might be doing (like snorkeling), and then creates a packing list for you based on all this info.
You’ll end up with a list of everything you need to pack, along with general holiday items, which you can then edit. You can remove the things you don’t need, add extras, re-order items, and share your list with others.
- It makes a packing list for you
- Your list is based on the dates, weather and any activities you want to do
- You can add, remove and re-order items
- You can share your list with your travel partners
TripIt, available on both iOS and Android , takes all your travel plans and puts them in one place to give you a master itinerary for your entire trip.
Simply send all your email confirmations to the app and they put together a full itinerary for you that syncs to your calendar and can be shared with your travel partners. You can also store all your travel documents in the atravel pp, so you have everything in one place.
Gone are the days of remembering 8 different connections or looking in your email for multiple confirmations and travel details, Tiplt puts it all together for you in one place.
There is also an option to upgrade to the pro version for $49 per year, and it’s worth it if you fly a lot. The pro version gives you extra features like flight alerts, terminal info, security wait times, airport maps, directions, and a seat tracker that lets you know when better seats are available.
- Creates a master itinerary for you
- Stores all your travel documents in one place
- Upgrade to Pro for awesome extra features
- Simple and easy to use
TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor, available on iOS and Android , is THE travel app when it comes to information on what’s around you, travel tips, and independent reviews of everything from bars to airlines. The best thing about it is that it works in every country in the world, and it should be on every traveler’s smartphone.
You can search through millions of reviews, pictures, and videos about everything you might use or like to visit. The cover most things from hotels, activities, restaurants, bars, and more.
You can use the Near Me search to find the top reviewed establishments close by, ask travel questions to people who have already been there, and add your own photos and reviews.
It also allows you to access your own travel feed, get ideas for travel, request expert advice, and find friends.
- Gives you access to a worldwide database on what's around you
- Provides independents reviews and media about every establishment
- Useful search features like Near Me
- You can ask questions for advice or knowledge
- Upload your own media and reviews
Learning Languages
There is no better way to enjoy your travels than being able to speak to the locals. Whether it is just ordering at a restaurant, or making new friends in your accommodation, it always pays to learn as much as you can.
Babbel is one of the leaders in online language learning, and a great way to immerse yourself in a new language before or during your travels.
The Babbel App is actually just a way to access language courses on your phone. They also provide access online, if you prefer to do it that way.
Their lessons are very practical and immersive and not heavy on the grammar or other things that typically turn us off (or bore us) when learning a language.
If you want to learn a new language for your next trip, this is a great way to do it.
- Practical and efficient language learning
- Great for beginner or intermediate
- Focus on learning the language fast
- Lots of learning options
- Access on App or Website
Google Translate
The Google Translate app is one of the most helpful travel apps when you are in a foreign country and have no clue how to speak the local language.
So, if you are talking to a local and need a translation, just allow Google Translate to listen in and tell you what they are saying. It can do the opposite as well, so you can get a two-way conversation going.
It provides a huge range of helpful services. Starting with the ability to literally translate people’s speech (over 100 languages) as well as scanning documents, menus and images.
You can download it on the app store either for your iPhone or Android phone.
Our Top Combo
As you can see, we have labeled our top picks of the best travel apps in the review and we suggest you download them. But if you only want a couple of them, here we are going to imagine that you can only download three, and tell you which combination of apps would be the most useful.
If you can only download three, we would suggest Kayak , Google Maps , and Trip Advisor . With these three apps, you can book everything you need for your vacation, find your way around on your holiday, and know all the fun and tasty things to do too. All the apps are global too, so you’ll be covered no matter where you are on the planet.
The combo covers you with almost all your travel needs from flights, hotels, car hire, public transport, and SatNav, to know of and be able to book every bar, restaurant, or activity around you.
- Overview Guide
- 1 Week Itinerary
- Train Journeys
- Epic Drives
- Stunning Lakes
- Historic Castles
- Lauterbrunnen
- Grindelwald
- Chocolate Tours
- Swiss National Park
- Majestic Mountains
- Spectacular Waterfalls
- Famous Things
- Tasty Fondue
- 10 Day Itinerary
- Cherry Blossoms
- Tokyo Shrines
- Dos and Don’ts
- Osaka Guide
- Osaka Itinerary
- Osaka or Kyoto
- Kyoto Day Trips
- Matsumoto Castle
- Tokyo Luxury Hotels
- Island Hopping
- Best Campsites
- Driving Tips
- Beaune, France
- Barcelona Itinerary
- Spain Itinerary
- Greece Itinerary
- Italy Road Trips
- Berlin Day Trips
- Norway Northern Lights
- Netherlands National Parks
- Mostar, Bosnia
- Best Airlines
- Midwest Ski Resorts
- Florida RV Parks
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- Utah Camping
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- Joshua Tree
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- Flashlights
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- Solar Lanterns
- Tent Brands
- 4-Person Tents
- 4 Seasons Tents
- Backpacking Tents
- Beach Tents
- Cabin Tents
- Multi-room Tents
- Pop-up Tents
- Truck Bed Tents
- Underwear (Men)
- Backpacks Under $100
- Microspikes
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- In The World
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- Hardisde Luggage
- Lightweight Luggage
- Luggage Sets
- Spinner Luggage
- Durable Suitcases
- Duffel Bags
- Kids Luggage
- Teen Luggage
- Space Saving Luggage
- Business Carry-Ons
- Garment Carry-Ons
- Suitcases Under $50
- Travel Briefcase
- Zipperless Suitcases
- Rolling Briefcase
- Luggage Straps
- Luxury Brands
- American Tourister
- AmazonBasics
- Delsey Chatelet
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- Backpacks Under $50
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- Travel Backpacks (Men)
- Travel Backpacks (Women)
- Waterproof Backpacks
- Wheeled Backpacks
- Down Jackets
- Down Parkas
- Fleece Jackets
- Hardshell Jackets
- Rain Jackets
- Softshell Jackets
- Eco Friendly Jackets
- Gore Tex Alternatives
- Heated Jackets
- Lightweight Jackets
- 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
- Parajumper Jackets
- Rain Poncho
- Ski Jackets
- Travel Hoodies
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- Winter Coats
- Helly Hansen
- Mammut Jackets
- Patagonia Nanopuff
- Survival Jackets
- Flower Captions
- Waterfall Captions
- Tree Captions
- Sunset Captions
- Sunflower Captions
- Rainbow Captions
- Paddle Boarding Captions
- Hot Air Balloon Captions
- Kayaking Captions
- Airplane Captions For Instagram
- Forest Captions
30 essential travel apps every traveler needs before their next trip
When it comes to planning and taking a vacation, travelers rely on their phones now more than ever.
Travel apps are a source of inspiration and are extremely useful for booking and managing logistics — even making restaurant reservations or finding a great fitness class wherever in the world you're flying next.
From apps that help with everything from day-of hotel bookings and last-minute flight changes to those that serve as guidebooks and foreign-language dictionaries, travel is infinitely easier thanks to technology.
Apps can help you navigate a new city, make currency conversions, pack a perfect suitcase and even provide on-the-ground local expertise. Whatever you need when you hit the road, there's an app for that.
We've rounded up the most-loved apps here at TPG. Some may be obvious, and others more obscure, but either way, get ready to download.
Best apps for researching and booking trips
In addition to the apps for the airlines you fly most frequently and your favorite hotel brands, these apps can help you save money on flights and accommodations.
Hopper has changed in recent years from just offering a price prediction tool for flights to being a true online travel agency. The app helps travelers find the cheapest flights, hotels and rental cars.
Of course, Hopper also still offers its signature price prediction technology to help you plan out when to book, as well as travel protection options and a price freeze to help you lock in the lowest possible price on hotels and flights.
Kiwi is used mainly to book flights, but it also helps you book hotels (using its partnership with Booking.com) and car rentals (using its partnership with RentalCars.com).
Some of the app's most interesting features include the "Deals" section, which pulls in discounted flights, and the "Travel hacks" section, which includes options for hidden city ticketing, throwaway ticketing (making one-way flights more affordable) and free price alerts.
Hotel Tonight
A dream for last-minute travelers, Hotel Tonight ( now owned by Airbnb ) lets you book stays for the same evening up to a few months in advance in thousands of cities worldwide. Available hotel rooms are categorized into sections like basic, luxe, hip, charming and solid, so you can select what works for your vibe. Take advantage of the daily drop feature, where you swipe to find a personalized deal with a special price only valid for 15 minutes after unlocked.
At TPG, we love a good loyalty program, and HT Perks, the app's nine-level reward program, is extensive. Not unlike a video game, you "level up" by reaching specific spending thresholds on the app, and you'll gain access to perks like discounts, VIP customer support and credits. Also, your levels never expire, so you can only continue to move up.
To book home rentals instead of hotels, use the Airbnb app. After entering your destination and dates, you can filter results based on the home type, price, requisite amenities and more. If you find something you like, you can book directly through the app.
The app is ideal for managing your trips while on the road — you can access all your bookings under the "Trips" tab, where you can view your reservation (and the address or directions), contact the host or change your reservation. Once you have a booking, you can also explore and book local experiences in your destination, such as wine tastings, kayak tours, hikes, shows and concerts.
We can't talk about travel apps without mentioning the TPG App. Use it to track your credit card, airline and hotel points balances; earn points and miles efficiently through using the right credit card ; and research how many points or miles you'll need to book your dream getaway. You can even curate your own news feed so you see the news and advice that matters most to you first.
The TPG App is available for download on iOS . Android users can join the waitlist here .
Related: The TPG App has arrived — here's why you should download it now
Best apps for organizing a trip
From keeping all your documents in order to perfectly packing your suitcase without forgetting a thing, these are the best apps for organizing travel plans.
TripIt declutters your itineraries and documents by keeping them organized in one place. You can set your reservations to automatically send to TripIt, which lets you view travel confirmations, flight itineraries, tickets, hotel and Airbnb booking information, rental car reservations, ferry tickets and driving directions without ever leaving the app.
TripIt also makes it simple to share your trip plans with whoever picks you up from the airport or train station or anyone else who may need to coordinate with you. TripIt Pro subscriptions cost $49 per year and include extras like real-time flight alerts, security wait times, baggage claim information and updates on your loyalty reward programs.
Roadtrippers
Perfect for organizing that epic road trip you've always wanted to take, Roadtrippers plans out your driving route and lets you book hotels and activities along the way. The app is especially useful for finding interesting and off-the-beaten-path roadside attractions, cool restaurants and can't-miss landmarks you can bookmark.
A Roadtrippers Premium membership includes offline maps, live traffic information, overnight RV parking and more for $59.99 per year. For those looking to only venture on a few road trips per year, the app also offers a Pro ($49.99 per year) and Basic ($35.99 per year) membership.
PackPoint takes all the stress out of packing . The app shows you what to bring based on the length of your trip, the weather in your destination and any activities you're planning along the way. If you have access to laundry facilities at your destination, PackPoint even allows you to account for washing your clothes and wearing them multiple times.
Just download and install the app, type in the city you're visiting and plug in your travel details. So, stop waiting until the day before your trip — or the hours before you have to leave for the airport — and start packing now.
Best apps for navigating the airport and flights
Track flights, navigate airports and find airport lounges with these apps.
LoungeBuddy
LoungeBuddy offers access to premium airport lounges around the world, regardless of the airline or class you're flying. When you create a trip in the app and type in the credit cards you currently hold, it will tell you which lounges you have access to based on the airports you'll be transiting through and how to purchase access if you don't already have it.
You can purchase access on the day you're traveling or up to two months in advance if you're the plan-ahead type. If you prefer to search by lounge or lounge program, the app will tell you exactly what is needed to use them.
Priority Pass
Priority Pass offers access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide and provides meal vouchers at select airport restaurants across the world for an annual fee starting at $99.
Several cards, including The Platinum Card® from American Express , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve , offer Priority Pass memberships for all cardholders (enrollment required). Otherwise, you'll have to pay an annual fee to be a member and, depending on your membership tier, a fee to enter each lounge on top of the annual fee.
To use the Priority Pass app, enter the name or code of the airport you're in, and Priority Pass will pull up the lounges or restaurants that you have access to, including photos, hours, amenities and specific location information. For more information on the Priority Pass Program and how to gain lounge access, click here . Enrollment is required for select benefits.
Related: The best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access
FlightAware
The FlightAware app allows you to track flights online, see a live map of a flight and check on delays, cancellations and gate changes. This app is especially helpful if you have a tight connection or want to track your flight.
It's also useful when picking up friends and family at the airport, as you can track their flight and see updated landing times or delays. AvGeeks will enjoy digging into flight statistics, flight maps and community aviation discussions on the app.
Best apps to use during your flight
Timeshifter.
What better way to cure jet lag than with an app? Timeshifter actually helps you avoid jet lag long before your flight takes off and also offers inflight and post-flight suggestions. The app relies on neuroscience research about sleep and circadian rhythms to provide personalized recommendations, taking into consideration your age, gender and normal sleep patterns — as well as specifics about your trip and travel plans. Timeshifter maps out when you should avoid or seek light, take a nap or try to stay awake. It even tells you if you should consider supplementing with melatonin or caffeine.
Your first jet lag plan is free, then $9.99 per plan, or you can enjoy unlimited plans for a year for $24.99.
Flying can cause anxiety — or provide a welcome relief from constant contact with our digital devices. Either way, use travel as an opportunity to relax, meditate or listen to soothing sounds that will lull you to sleep or a deep, relaxed state. Or, perhaps, you'll simply find it helps pass the time during a long flight.
Calm offers meditations on topics such as self-awareness, calming anxiety, breathing, lowering stress levels and happiness, among others. The app also has music options for focusing, relaxing and sleeping, as well as stories for adults and content for kids.
A limited selection of meditations and music is available for free (which you can download to use when you're offline or in flight). The premium version of the app costs $14.99 per month or $69.99 annually.
OK, so Netflix isn't really a travel app, but it can be a lifesaver during a long flight on an aircraft without seatback inflight entertainment or at the airport during an unexpected flight delay or boring layover. If you have a Netflix account, the app allows you to download your favorite shows onto your device to watch offline.
Just make sure to download your shows while connected to Wi-Fi before flying and check them again preflight to make sure they haven't expired (you can usually renew any expired downloads, but you must be connected to Wi-Fi or data to do so). Monthly prices vary depending on the plan.
Another app that's not really a travel app, Spotify can still be incredibly useful during tedious travel moments — just pop in those noise-canceling headphones and listen to your favorite music, meditations, podcasts and more.
The app's Premium plans (prices vary) allow you to download all your content offline on your phone, so you'll have it during long flights or when you don't have data or Wi-Fi access. Whether you want to take a morning jog in Bali to your favorite tunes or pass the time with a podcast on the metro in Barcelona, Spotify has it all.
Best apps to use in your destination
From exchanging money and sightseeing to communicating and knowing all the local tips and tricks, you don't want to land in a foreign city for the first time without these key apps.
XE Currency Converter
The XE Currency Converter app quickly provides live, up-to-the-minute currency rates, then allows you to store and view them even when you're offline. You'll never need to wonder if you're really getting a good deal in another country if you have this app.
Google Translate
Google Translate is a translation app that allows you to do it all — translate into more than 100 languages by typing, access 59 languages offline, translate via photo, translate bilingual conversations and even use the handwriting tool to translate.
The app is simple to use, too, with icons at the top you can click on to draw, take a photo, speak or type.
Not quite sure how much to tip when traveling internationally? GlobeTips will advise you on how to tip appropriately in more than 200 countries. It also offers a tip calculator for easy math. Globe also has apps for currency conversion, unit conversion and more that may be useful for travelers.
Related: The ultimate guide to tipping while traveling
For travelers globe-trotting with friends and family members or simply splitting the cost between groups, Tricount calculates shared costs and splits bills so you don't have to think twice about who owes what. Just enter your trip and currency and invite your travel mates to join your trip.
Each time someone pays for something, you enter the amount in Tricount, and the app splits everything up. You can also snap and store photos of receipts in the app. At the end of your trip, it will show the balances of who owes who what, making it easy to settle up.
Metric Conversions
Never be baffled by Celsius temperatures or suitcase weight in kilograms again with the Metric Conversions app . Whether you're measuring flour to cook at your Airbnb, figuring out distances for your Europe road trip or deciding whether to take a sweatshirt with you during your walking tour of the Great Wall of China, this app has you covered with easy conversions in volume, weight, temperature, area and more.
Google Maps
Google Maps is essential when visiting a new city (or even for getting around your hometown). You can map locations, get directions (walking, driving, public transportation, ride-hailing services and beyond) and see how crowded your subway will be in select cities .
You can make restaurant reservations, save your favorite spots and read and write reviews of attractions, eateries, shops and more. Make sure to download specific city or area maps ahead of time for offline access if you know you'll be without internet at your destination. For obvious reasons, the app works best when your GPS is turned on.
WhatsApp is a handy messaging service for travelers abroad as it uses an internet connection to avoid SMS fees.
It works like most other messaging apps: You start by creating an account, then add your friends and family members to contact and voila! You're able to call, video chat and send messages, images, voice memos, gifs and files just as you would in, say, iMessage (but with Android users too). You can also download WhatsApp on your Windows or Mac computer.
Best apps for planning activities
Traveling is about more than just getting from point A to point B. If you're looking for activities to add to your itinerary, check out these apps.
Meetup is an app designed for interacting with locals and other travelers who have mutual interests or shared hobbies. Whether you're traveling or at home, take what you love and do more of it with Meetup.
The app shows you groups that are formed around particular interests in your city, including yoga, photography, cooking, wine tasting, hiking, cinema and other activities. You can join groups to get updates on particular events you may want to participate in. The app can even help with networking, as there are many groups dedicated to business and technology. You might even be able to join a coworking group. Travelers with kids can participate in family-friendly meetups, and it's a great way for solo travelers to make friends and connect with others.
TheFork is one of the most useful resources for making restaurant reservations in Europe. Similar to OpenTable or Resy, the app lets you browse different restaurants by category and make reservations. TheFork features more than 60,000 restaurants in cities like London, Madrid and Geneva, as well as spots outside of Europe like Sydney, Australia.
The biggest perk is that many restaurant reservations come with discounts — in some cases, you can get up to 50% off your meal just by reserving a table through TheFork. Since we here at TPG are always down for earning rewards, make sure to monitor your YUMS — TheFork's reward system. You'll earn YUMS with each reservation, and when you hit 1,000, you receive a discount on your bill. Foodie travelers should also consider downloading these apps , too.
Happy Cow helps vegan and vegetarian eaters locate more than 180,000 restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, farmers markets and grocery stores in over 180 countries around the world. The app allows you to filter by not only vegan and vegetarian but also gluten-free and cuisine types. You can also read reviews and get recipes on the app as well.
The app does cost $3.99, but it's a one-time expense.
TripAdvisor
Besides reading reviews of restaurants, hotels and attractions, you can book almost anything on TripAdvisor, from vacation rentals and restaurant reservations to tours and tickets.
The app has grown to include almost all things travel, allowing you to search by destination or interest (like the outdoors, food and drink, family or by the water, for example), which can give you inspiration for a trip or help you get your activities, meals and accommodations organized before traveling or on the fly.
With over 400,000 curated trails, AllTrails can help you find the hike or walk perfect for you and your group. It's not just mountain trails — AllTrails offers city walks, too, like easy meanders through the Marais district in Paris or peaceful strolls through Bangkok's Lumpini Park in Thailand.
See photos, updated weather predictions and key information about each route and connect with other travelers through reviews and forums. Access to AllTrails+ is $35.99 per year, which offers perks like offline maps and wrong turn alerts.
Best apps for staying safe
Use these apps to stay safe when traveling.
Smart Traveler
Smart Traveler is a free service that offers tips and information specifically for U.S. travelers. You can see what visas and vaccines you'll need before traveling and where to find help if you need it during your trip.
Register your trip on the app, which gives your information to local embassies and consulates in your destination. If there's any kind of disaster or tragedy, the local embassy can contact you to see if you need help.
TripWhistle
Another app dedicated to keeping you safe, TripWhistle maps your location and allows you to easily text or send your GPS coordinates or location. It also provides emergency numbers for firefighters, medical personnel and police in nearly 200 countries. After all, 911 is only for U.S.-based emergencies: Each country has its own specific emergency number.
Yes, Uber (or any local ride-hailing service app) is convenient, but it may also keep you safe. Using this app when traveling means you'll never get stuck wandering around in an unfamiliar area late at night or have to deal with unscrupulous taxi drivers trying to scam you. Uber also has in-app safety features such as an emergency assistance button which will allow you to call local emergency services right in the app.
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10 Best Travel TRIP PLANNER APPs To Have in 2024
In a fast-paced world where the stress of work and school is overwhelming, we all need a break to de-stress our minds. Traveling is one good way to take your mind off of stressful things – a breather. And a scheduled vacation gives you something to look forward to.
Whether it’s a local trip alone, a family holiday, or a getaway with your best friends, it just excites you to wish the day would come faster.
10 Best Trip Planner Apps in 2024
The freeform app.
- TripIt: Travel Planner
Hopper – Flight & Hotel Deals
- Sygic Travel Maps Trip Planner
Roadtrippers: Trip Planner
Tripadvisor, travelspend: track travel expense & trip budget, tripcase – travel organizer app, travel planning apps for your next trip.
The Freeform app is an endless whiteboard that lets users add information from a variety of websites, photos, videos and files.
Because the boards are kept in iCloud, they can be accessed from any device anytime inspiration hits. While you and your travel companions plan your dream trip, the specifics can be shared with several individuals working together on the same whiteboard, making them an ongoing work in progress.
The Freeform app is free to iPhone users on iOS 16.2, iPad users on 16.2, and Mac users on Ventura MacOS Venture 13.1.
Download the brand-new app here .
Read our full post: Apple Launches New Travel App Freeform – What to Know
Wanderlog Trip Planner App
Wanderlog is your all-in-one destination for planning future trips, sharing travel guides, and blogging past trips.
Its trip planning features are incredibly flexible: you can research destinations and activities, organize reservations by connecting your email, and map out a day itinerary with start/end times. You can also add notes and links all throughout.
Everything is stored offline so you can access your itinerary when traveling abroad. For road trips, it calculates the time and distance between places and exports them to Google Maps (and there are no limits to the number of stops you have on a trip!).
Plus, there’s a fun social component: collaborate with friends on itineraries, write your own travel guide, and blog about past trips. Wanderlog is available on the web and on your smartphone, so you can seamlessly plan while at home and on-the-go.
iOS / Android
TripIt: Trip Planner App
If you need any help organizing the dozens of itineraries, TripIt is the app for you. Users simply need to forward your flight, hotel, restaurant, and car rental confirmation emails to [email protected] and the app will create a free master doc for each of your trips. The best thing about this app is that you can get access to your itinerary anywhere, even without an internet connection.
In addition, the Pro version will find you alternative routes for canceled flights and send out notifications for delayed flights, cancellations, and more from the airlines.
iOS / Android
Rome2rio is a versatile travel planning app that simplifies the process of finding and booking travel options. It’s a handy tool for travelers seeking to explore various transportation choices between destinations. Rome2rio offers users a comprehensive view of travel options, including flights, trains, buses, ferries, and even driving directions.
Key features of Rome2rio include:
- Route Information: The app provides detailed information on different routes, including estimated travel times, costs, and the number of transfers required.
- Booking Integration: Users can book flights, train tickets, and other transportation options directly through the app, streamlining the booking process.
- Map Integration: Rome2rio integrates with maps, allowing users to visualize their travel routes and explore nearby attractions.
- Multi-Modal Travel: It offers options for combining various modes of transportation, making it easy to plan complex journeys.
- Accurate Pricing: The app provides real-time pricing information, helping users make informed decisions based on their budget.
- Offline Access: Rome2rio offers offline access to previously searched routes, which can be handy when traveling without a data connection.
Hopper is an amazing trip planner app to have on your phone. The app predicts airfares up to 1 year in advance, with 95% accuracy. It analyzes over billions of flight prices and hotels within the day – telling you whether to book your trip now or wait for just a little longer.
Here’s how it works: Key in your destination and a color-coded calendar will display the cheapest and most expensive date to fly. The app will then recommend you to either book the flight now or sit it out and wait for airfare to get cheaper. Also, you can filter predictions to custom-fit your trip – remove long layovers, extra fees, restrictions, and more.
And if you worry about missing out the cheap flight bookings, don’t be! Hopper will send you a notification when fares have dropped to its lowest point.
SYGIC Travel Maps Trip Planner
Sygic Travel Maps , the new version of Sygic Trip Planner, is the first travel app to display all of the attractions and places a traveler needs to see and visit on a single map.
Sync your trips with the Sygic Travel app and find hidden gems in all cities you visit. The app boast a large database that allows you to find the best hotels, tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, bars, and stores wherever you go.
This mobile app also let you download offline maps and guides, which come in helpful when traveling to remote locations with poor or non-existing Wi-Fi.
It also has a dedicated section to worldwide places of interest for travel business. Get location information for individual cities, countries, continents, or the entire planet.
The app is available in 18 languages.
iOS / Android iOS
Planning on a cross-country road trip ? Roadtrippers is the app for you! Not everyone is fond of waiting long hours at the airport while sitting through your red-eye flight. Hit the road with your friends instead.
Roadtrippers provides everything you need to know on your road trip. Just enter your starting point, destination, and let the app do its work for you! From camping sites to rest stops, outdoor activities, exciting adventures along the way that you didn’t know existed. This app is the perfect buddy for your road trip regardless of your mode of transportation – a sedan, a rental car, or a huge family RV.
Most of us dream of going to places! But planning an amazing trip to places we have not been to is pretty hard as you don’t know where to stay, what to do, places to eat, and adventures to try. We mostly rely on recommendations, most of which are not even right, that we find online.
TripAdvisor has over millions of travel recommendations on hotels, top dining spots, must-do experiences, and treasured gems to over 8 million destinations at your perusal. It is an all-in-one app that lets you book tables at restaurants and compares low prices on hotels and flights.
You can also follow friends and travel experts for advice that match your interests, watch videos, and read articles. In return, you can share your experiences, reviews, and helpful guides for other users too!
Setting up a budget for your trip is easy, however, sticking to it is hard. TravelSpend will help you with that. It starts with entering your budget and expenses over multiple days so you don’t go overboard. The app helps you in sticking to your budget effectively.
Being in another country is not a problem at all: enter your expenses in any currency and the app will automatically convert it to your home currency.
Track your travel expenses whether going on a solo around-the-world trip or backpacking holiday with your best friends. The app allows you to share your trip with your friends and track your expenses together. Pay debts, split bills, and check your balances – all in the app!
TripCase, a comprehensive travel organizer app, has emerged as a popular choice among travelers seeking a streamlined and efficient way to manage their journey details.
Here’s a breakdown of its key features and functionalities:
Centralized Itinerary Management : TripCase allows users to consolidate all their travel details, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, into a single, easily accessible itinerary.
Real-time Flight Alerts : The app keeps travelers informed with up-to-the-minute notifications on flight statuses, including delays, cancellations, and gate changes.
Itinerary Sharing : TripCase offers a sharing option that enables users to send their travel plans to friends, family, or colleagues.
Travel Directions and Maps : To aid navigation in unfamiliar locations, the app provides directions and maps.
Nearby Recommendations : TripCase offers recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and other services close to the traveler’s location.
Document Storage : For added convenience, the app allows users to store essential travel documents digitally, ensuring that important information like passport details, visas, and insurance policies are readily available.
Customizable Notifications : Users can customize their notification preferences, choosing what types of alerts they receive and how they are notified, tailoring the app to suit individual needs and preferences.
iOS / Android
Hi, great List. I couldn’t travel without my Apps! I have one App you could check out =) Its called ” ATM Fee Saver” and it gives a list with all ATMs and their fees and limit. I found it super helpful and it really helped me to save some money. Best regards, Charlotte
Thank you for your suggestions! Those apps are very useful and various
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Best travel apps 2023, according to Apple. You'll want to bookmark this.
Apple's App Store editors came together and picked the best travel apps of 2023 — 20 in total.
Some may be familiar to you already, including Airbnb , Lyft, Uber , Hopper, Yelp , Tripadvisor, and KAYAK. Plus, Apple spotlighted some popular swift-entry apps, including CLEAR and MyTSA, but what about the remaining 11?
Here are Apple's favorite apps for iPhone-owning travel enthusiasts.
The best travel apps of 2023, according to Apple
Apple slapped an Editor's Choice award on Flighty because of its informative, comprehensive flight maps and top-tier forecasting on delays.
But what the Cupertino-based tech giant really digs about this app is its "perfectly timed notifications that keep you up to date and stress free." Plus, it tells you when you should be heading to the airport, explains exactly which runway you'll be on, and delves into details about your plane.
Not only do users find it helpful for tracking their own flights, but it's useful for keeping an eye on your incoming friends and relatives.
2. Currenzy
Based on its name, it's not difficult to determine what this app can do. As you might have guessed, Currenzy facilitates currency conversion calculations. (Whew, how's that for alliteration?)
If you're shopping in a foreign country, or you can't make sense of the prices on the menu items in a restaurant, the Currenzy app comes in handy, making it Apple's top pick for travel apps.
3. The MICHELIN Guide
One of the most head-scratching questions you must answer during your travels is, "Where the hell do I eat?"
As a foreigner, you often have no idea which restaurants serve the best food. You can rely on TripAdvisor and Yelp for reviews, but if you're a gastronomy connoisseur, you may want to consider using the Michelin Guide app to book reservations with the best eateries in the world.
If you find yourself in a country that doesn't have the most reliable public transportation, or you simply want the freedom of driving everywhere without depending on taxis, Turo is beneficial for you.
Touted as "the largest peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace," Touro is the Airbnb of the car-rental market. Hosts all over the world lend their cars to travelers seeking to explore new surroundings in a rental. You can choose between a rugged truck or a more luxe, smoother ride.
5. GasBuddy
If you're going to be using Turo, you might as well download GasBuddy , too.
This app helps you find the cheapest gas stations near your location, which is helpful for saving a few bucks. Traveling is already expensive, so if you can spare some change, it will add up in your favor in the end.
TripIt serves as an all-in-one hub for your travel plans. So instead of looking at one app for your flight details and another for your accommodation information, you can forward your confirmation emails to TripIt.
As a result, all of your travel plans, including flight, car rental information, and restaurant reservations, are organized in one place.
If you don't care for rentals nor taxis, and you prefer e-scooters, the Bird app is your friend.
Bird landed on Apple's "best travel app" list because it lets users get access to e-scooters in over 350 cities around the world.
8. HotelTonight
HotelTonight does something called "Daily Drops"; it notifies you about steep discounts on hotels.
According to the Editor's Notes in the Apple App Store, HotelTonight discovers unsold rooms at tempting prices — with a seamless and streamlined interface to boot.
9. SpotHero
Beneficial to travelers who plan to drive in busy cities, SpotHero helps you find parking spots — and reserve them, too.
This way, you don't have to worry about the headache of discovering garages and parking lots in unfamiliar, heavily populated cities.
10. RoadTrippers
There's even an app for adventurous travelers who prefer roadtripping. Catering to users in U.S. and Canada, this app caught Apple's eye because it has a whopping 38 million pre-planned trips.
As such, you can use the RoadTrippers app to use pre-made trip guides for a smooth-sailing journey from A to B.
11. Mobile Passport by Airside
If you've been traveling abroad, and you want to regain entry into the United States, this app — Mobile Passport by Airside — streamlines the process with mobile passport control.
Through the app, you can submit your travel documents and details to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Once you're approved, you'll get an encrypted QR code that you can show the CBP officer.
Look for the mobile passport control sign at the airport and you'll find that your entry will go a lot smoother. You'll wonder why you didn't know about this app sooner.
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Best Travel Apps for 2023
As a co-founder of a travel start-up and a keen traveller I appreciate travel apps which optimise usability, have a great aesthetic and make travel simpler. From translating bilingual conversations and online privacy protection tools to tracking trip spend and flight prices, there are plenty of travel apps making travel easier and improving trip experiences.
I've compiled a short list of what I consider to be the must have travel apps for 2023. Be sure to check these out for your next trip!
Searching for flights
Google flights .
Strictly speaking, Google Flights is not available as an app, but it has a great mobile experience, so I have snuck it into the list! I have tried a number of flight search and booking apps but I always return to Google Flights. Why? The criteria filters allow you to find exactly what you need, at the lowest price, very quickly. If you are not ready to book a trip, you can use Google Flights to track prices for a flight or route and when the price for that tracked flight or route changes significantly, you can receive emails and mobile notifications.
Google Flights also offers extremely useful price change insights letting you know the price history for the flights you’re viewing, when prices for a route are likely to go up and an estimate of the price increase.
Google Flights does not sell plane tickets, but it makes booking easy enough by linking to the relevant airline or online travel agency.
Creating your own travel Itinerary
I can’t talk about travel apps without mentioning TripMapper, the home for all your travel plans! If like me, you love to design your own unforgettable travel experiences and follow your own path, you need TripMapper, a tool to help you build your own tailored itinerary and stay in control of your trip spend.
Manage your itinerary, invite fellow travellers, plot your locations, attach your tickets, and receive notifications. Then, use the budget calculator to track your spending and payments in real-time.
Plan your trip, track your spend and make it perfect with TripMapper.
Available on the web , iOS and Android .
Booking accommodation
Booking.com.
Using accommodation booking apps or websites is advantageous if you have no loyalty to any one particular hotel or hotel chain. These booking platforms can be a good way to receive discounts and other perks if you stay at different, unaffiliated properties.
There are plenty of accommodation booking platforms to peruse, from Booking.com to Hotels.com and Expedia to Trivago, all claiming to have the best options and prices. For me, Booking.com tops the chart for its functionality, pricing, loyalty programme and good customer service. Its loyalty programme has proved worthwhile, saving me money and allowing me to enjoy free room upgrades on some of my stays. Whether it's Booking.com or Hotels.com, loyalty does appear to pay off.
Securing your digital life
Surfshark vpn.
Staying secure when using the internet is paramount, and even more so when using free public Wi-Fi when travelling.
A VPN (short for a “virtual private network”) is a must have privacy protection tool when travelling at home or abroad. Put very simply, a VPN helps your data travel through the internet safely without others being able to spy on your online activities. It makes your browsing private, hides your IP address and ensures your internet service provider can’t track you. Also if you are on holiday in another country you can bring your home entertainment (Netflix!) anywhere you go when using a VPN.
There are many VPN providers available, Surfshark, Nord VPN, ProtonVPN and Express VPN are the more well-known providers. I use Surfshark which is very easy to use, is good value and can be used on unlimited devices.
Tracking data usage
DataMan is a great app for tracking your data usage whilst travelling. I downloaded this app after going over my data allowance during a trip, and that hasn’t happened since! It is easy to use and helps you from going over your monthly data allowance.
Available on iOS .
Staying in control of your travel budget
TripMapper is a cross-platform app with a beautiful kanban style layout, pre-made customisable itineraries and granular trip budgeting.
Individual and group budgeting with TripMapper is an absolute breeze! Start by setting a daily or entire trip budget and then input paid amounts (including deposits) and upcoming amounts. TripMapper then lets travellers clearly know what they owe, what they have left to spend, or if they are over budget, allowing them to retain control of their trip spend. Plus, powerful filters allows travellers to drill into the details and the currency conversion feature makes for even more accurate budgeting.
With TripMapper's travel budgeting tool, both budget travellers and those with more to play with can easily manage and track their spending both before and during their trip.
Language translation
Google translate .
Google Translate has proved a valuable translation tool during my travels. From communicating with a mechanic when my car broke down in the Cretan mountains to working out what food to order whilst in Beijing, this pocket interpreter has come in very handy.
Google Translate is free, easy to use and can translate text of over 100 languages. It is also possible to translate text in images, translate bilingual conversations and draw text characters instead of typing.
If you are looking to translate complex sentence structures this tool may not produce the most accurate results but if like me, you just need a little assistance to communicate whilst travelling, this is a super app.
Google Maps
It probably comes as no surprise that this app has made my list. In my view, Google Maps continues to reign supreme in the navigation app space.
Whether by foot, car, taking public transport, or bicycle, Google Maps can show you how to get to where you need to go, but also contains many other useful features - explore points of interest, obtain business information, take virtual strolls and find the nearest petrol stations. An essential app to download!
Audio guides
Rick steves audio europe.
This free app provides European sightseeing recommendations, allows travellers to follow self-guided walking tours and you can listen to local guides providing travel tips and cultural insights. I listened to the free Acropolis audio guide during a visit to Athens and it certainly made my visit even more fascinating.
Available on iOS and Android .
Please note any third party websites (and any services that may be accessible through them) have their own terms of service and privacy policies. This article does not contain any affiliate links.
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The Best Travel Apps to Download in 2023
Are you planning a trip in 2023? Then, it’s time to embrace the power of technology and take advantage of apps for booking and planning travel. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best travel apps for 2023 to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. These apps are available for iPhone and Android and will help you plan, travel, and maximize your next trip.
Table of Contents
What Are The Benefits of Using Apps for Travel?
With the increasing accessibility of technology, it’s no surprise that apps for travel have become increasingly popular among travelers. Here are some of the benefits of using these apps:
- Convenience: Make planning and organizing your trip details easy in one place. Everything can be done with just a few taps on your phone, from scheduling flights and hotels to creating an itinerary.
- Cost savings: Help find discounts or lower prices for flights, accommodations, and activities. You can save money on your travels by comparing different options and finding the best deals.
- Real-time information: You can get real-time updates about flight delays or cancellations, traffic conditions, weather forecasts, and more. This helps you stay informed and adjust your plans accordingly.
- Offline access: Download maps or guides for offline use without an internet connection. This is particularly useful when traveling to remote destinations or areas with limited connectivity.
- Personalization: Personalized recommendations based on your preferences and previous bookings, you can easily find activities and attractions that match your interests.
Using travel apps can help streamline the planning process while providing valuable information at every step of your journey. Whether you’re planning a road trip across the country or jetting off to a new destination overseas, an app will help you make the most out of every moment!
What Are The Different Types Of Travel Apps?
Travel apps can be incredibly useful for making your travels smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some of the different types of travel apps you might come across:
- Flight Booking Apps: These apps help you find and book flights to your destination, often with helpful features like price tracking or alerts for cancellations or delays. Many have travel planners to help map out your adventure as well.
- Hotel Booking Apps: Similar to flight apps, hotel apps help you find and book accommodation at your destination. Some also offer special discounts or reward programs.
- Packing List Apps: These handy tools give you a checklist of everything you need to pack for your trip so you don’t forget anything important.
- Currency Converter Apps: If you’re traveling internationally, these apps help convert currencies so that you can easily keep track of expenses and budgeting.
- Sightseeing Apps: Whether it’s finding attractions or tours in a new city, these types of travel apps provide information about sightseeing opportunities in various destinations.
- Food & Drink Apps: From finding the best local restaurants to discovering unique experiences like food tours or cooking classes, these apps focus on helping travelers experience local cuisine.
- Travel Planning Apps: These all-in-one solutions combine multiple features, such as itinerary planning, schedule management, and budget tracking, into one app that helps with overall trip planning
- Navigation Apps: Whether by foot or car rental, navigation app provides turn-by-turn directions utilizing GPS signals from mobile devices
Each type of app has its benefits depending on what kind of traveler you are and your needs during your trip.
When deciding which travel apps to download, consider user reviews. Also, think about how much it will cost upfront versus any potential savings later down the line. Check out all the features available, too; some may have offline capabilities while others require an internet connection. Whichever type of travel planner app makes sense for you, ensure it’s secure when dealing with personal information, and verify if the app has any special security certifications.
Flight Booking Apps
One of the most crucial aspects of travel planning is finding a flight. With so many options, choosing the best travel apps for flights can be overwhelming. Several apps can help you find and book your destination’s cheapest flights.
- Kayak – A essential travel app that helps you compare prices for flights from hundreds of airlines worldwide. It also offers features like price alerts and a flight tracker to help you stay up-to-date on any changes in your itinerary.
- Skyscanner – Allows you to search for flights by travel date, destination, travel times, or even budget. You can also set up price alerts to keep an eye on any changes in fare prices.
- Expedia – One of the top apps known for travel deals, which are best when you book flights packaged with hotels and car rentals. It can help you plan your trip, find the best flight, and map out your travel itineraries.
No matter which app you choose, make sure to check if it offers cancellation or change policies just in case your plans change unexpectedly. Additionally, consider whether offline access or notifications are important factors to have during your travels. Apps that may provide live support agents via a toll-free number may be very helpful in case of problems along the way.
Overall, having a reliable flight booking app can remove some of the stress of planning a trip and ensure that you get the best deal possible.
Hotel Booking Apps
When it comes to booking hotels for your next trip, having a reliable travel app can make all the difference. In addition to some of the top travel apps like Kayak and Expedia, these apps will help you to find the best deals and book your accommodation hassle-free:
- Airbnb – This app allows you to search for unique and affordable accommodations, from apartments and villas to treehouses and castles. You can also message hosts directly if you have any questions or special requests.
- Booking.com – As one of the most popular hotel apps out there, Booking.com offers a wide selection of hotels, resorts, apartments, and vacation rentals at competitive prices. You can also filter results by location, price range, facilities offered, and more.
- HotelTonight – If you’re in need of last-minute accommodations or prefer spontaneous travel planning in general, HotelTonight is an excellent app that lets you browse same-day hotel deals up until 2 am local time.
No matter what kind of traveller you are or where your destination may be, these apps will surely help make your next trip more comfortable by finding the perfect place to rest after each day’s adventure!
Packing List Apps
One of the most stressful parts of traveling can be trying to remember everything you need to pack. That’s where packing list apps come in handy. These apps allow you to create customized packing lists for each trip, ensuring you have everything you need without overpacking.
Some of the best apps for travel packing include:
- PackPoint : This app creates a packing list based on your destination, length of travel, and planned activities.
- TripList : With this app, you can create packing lists for multiple travelers and sync them across devices.
- Packing Pro : This app allows you to create unlimited lists with customizable categories and items, making it perfect for long-term travelers.
No matter which app you choose, having a personalized packing list will help reduce stress and make sure that nothing important gets left behind.
Currency Converter Apps
One of the biggest challenges for travelers is dealing with currency exchange rates. With so many different currencies in use worldwide, tracking how much you’re spending and what things cost can be difficult. Many travelers are confused by conversion rates, taxes, fees, etc. That’s where currency converter apps come in.
These apps allow you to convert one currency into another quickly and easily, using real-time exchange rates. Many also have additional features like historical data, offline mode, and alerts when a particular currency reaches a certain value.
Some popular options include:
- XE Currency : This app offers live exchange rates for over 180 currencies, historical charts, and analysis.
- Oanda Currency Converte r: In addition to real-time exchange rates, this app includes a calculator that lets you figure out how much money you’ll get back after fees or commissions are taken out.
- Currency Convert : A simple yet effective app that lets you save your most common conversions for easy access later on.
- Travel Money Oz Currency Converter : This free app provides up-to-date information on all major currencies around the world as well as those lesser-known ones that tend to trip people up.
No matter which currency converter app you choose, make sure it has all the features you need before your next trip abroad. Whether you’re doing some quick mental calculations at a market stall or trying to figure out how much cash to withdraw from an ATM, having one of these apps on hand can make all the difference.
Sightseeing Apps
One of the most exciting parts of traveling is exploring new destinations and attractions. That’s why having an app that helps you find the best places to see can be a game-changer. Here are some of the best apps for getting around town and sightseeing on your adventure:
- TripAdvisor : With over 830 million reviews and opinions, this app is a great resource for finding popular tourist destinations as well as hidden gems in any destination.
- Google Maps : Not only does this app provide navigation and directions, but it also includes information on nearby attractions and ratings from other travelers.
- Airbnb Experiences : This app offers unique local experiences led by knowledgeable hosts, allowing you to explore a destination more authentically.
- Viator : This app offers tours, activities, and attraction tickets all over the world with easy booking and discount options.
- GetYourGuide : Similar to Viator, this awesome travel app provides access to excursions and activities in various destinations, with user reviews helping you make informed decisions.
No matter where your next trip takes you, these sightseeing apps can help ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see spots or memorable experiences!
Food & Drink Apps
When it comes to exploring new destinations, trying new foods is often a top priority for travelers. Luckily, there are many great food and drink apps that can help you find the best local spots while you’re on the go. Some of our favorite apps include:
- Yelp : This app helps you find restaurants, cafes, and bars in your area by providing user-generated ratings and reviews. You can also filter search results by cuisine type or price range.
- OpenTable : If you want to make reservations before arriving at a restaurant, OpenTable is an excellent choice. You can browse available tables at nearby restaurants and reserve them directly through the app.
- HappyCow : For those following a plant-based diet or looking for vegetarian-friendly options, HappyCow is a must-have app. It provides a comprehensive list of vegan and vegetarian restaurants in any given location.
- Untappd : Beer lovers will appreciate this app which lets you discover new brews and share recommendations with friends.
- Wine-Searcher : Whether you’re looking for a specific bottle or want to browse nearby wine shops, Wine-Searcher makes it easy to find what you’re looking for.
No matter what kind of food or drink experience you’re seeking on your travels, these apps will help ensure that every meal is memorable.
Travel Planning Apps
Apps for organizing your trip are essential for any traveler, whether you’re heading on a road trip or jetting off to a new destination. These apps can help you find great deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals, plan your itinerary, and even provide helpful travel inspiration.
- TripIt . This is one of the best free travel apps to help you organize all your travel details in one place, including flight information, hotel reservations, and car rental bookings. It even creates a complete itinerary for your trip that you can access offline.
- Google Maps . This is my favorite travel app. While many people use it for navigation purposes, it’s one of the best travel planning tools. You can search for top attractions in any given area and save them to a list within the app. Plus, with its offline feature, you don’t need an internet connection to access important map information while on the go.
No matter which travel planning app you choose, make sure it has features that fit your specific needs to make a journey easier.
Navigation Apps
One of the most important types of travel apps is navigation apps. These apps can help you find your way around a new destination, whether you’re driving, walking, or using public transportation.
- Google Maps : One of the best apps for navigating anywhere in the world! It has excellent coverage worldwide and can provide turn-by-turn directions for driving, walking, and cycling. It also shows real-time traffic updates and public transit information in many cities.
- MAPS.ME : Before you hit the road, download your trip so you don’t need an internet connection to access your travel plan. This app also includes points of interest such as restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
- Roadtrippers : The best travel app for navigating highways. The app allows you to plan your road trip itinerary with multiple stops along the way and recommends places to visit based on your interests. It also shows the estimated cost of gas for your trip.
No matter which navigation app you choose, make sure it’s reliable and easy to use. Look for features like voice-guided directions, real-time traffic updates, and downloadable maps if you’ll be traveling without an internet connection.
How To Choose The Best Travel Apps
With so many options, choosing the best travel app for your needs can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, here are some factors to consider:
- Look for user reviews: Before downloading a travel app, read what other travelers say about it and their experiences with it.
- Consider the cost: Some travel apps may have a one-time fee or require a subscription to access all features. Make sure you understand the costs involved before committing.
- Check the app’s features: Look for specific features that match your needs, such as flight booking or packing lists.
- Ensure the app is secure: Since you’ll be entering personal information into these apps, ensure proper security measures are in place.
Remember that every traveler has different preferences when it comes to apps for planning trips – take some time to research options that will suit your individual needs.
Look for user reviews
When it comes to choosing the best travel app, user reviews can be an invaluable tool. Reading what other travelers have to say about their experiences with a particular app can help you decide whether it’s right for you.
Look for apps with a high number of positive reviews, as well as detailed feedback that goes beyond just star ratings. Pay attention to comments about specific features and functionality and any issues users may have encountered.
Don’t forget to take into account the context of each review; some people may give low ratings simply because they had a bad experience unrelated to the app itself, so be sure to read multiple reviews before making your final decision.
If you’re unsure about where to start looking for user reviews, try checking out popular app stores like Google Play or Apple’s App Store. You can also find reviews on independent sites like Trustpilot or TripAdvisor.
Remember that the best travel app will do much more than help you to find cheap flights. By doing your research and considering user feedback, you’ll be well on your way to finding an app that makes traveling easier and more enjoyable than ever before.
Consider the cost
When it comes to choosing the right travel app, the cost is definitely a factor to consider. While some apps may be free to download and use, others may require payment for the pro version or have in-app purchases.
Before deciding on an app, it’s important to think about your budget and how much you’re willing to spend. Some apps offer premium versions with additional features for a fee, so you’ll want to weigh the benefits against the cost.
Keep in mind that even free travel apps can save you money by helping you find discounts on flights, hotels, or other travel expenses. Look for apps that offer price comparisons across multiple platforms and airlines.
Lastly, don’t forget about hidden costs such as data usage or roaming charges when traveling abroad. Some apps offer offline maps or allow you to pre-download information so that you can use them without an internet connection.
Overall, while cost shouldn’t be the only deciding factor in choosing a travel app, it’s definitely something worth considering before making your final choice. However, just because the app is free does not make it a good value if it does not save you time and money or help in planning your next adventure. Apps to make your trip planning more efficient in some way are the best apps to get. While we always seek free, sometimes spending a few dollars to save hundreds of time and effort will be worth it in the long run.
Check the app’s features
When choosing a travel app, it’s important to check its features and ensure they align with your travel needs. Here are some key features to look out for:
- Offline Maps: If you’re traveling abroad, you may not always have access to an internet connection. An app that offers downloadable maps can be a lifesaver in these situations.
- Itinerary Planning: Some apps offer itinerary planning tools that allow you to organize flights, accommodation, activities, travel insurance, and more all in one place.
- Discount Codes: Traveling can get expensive quickly, so it’s worth checking if the app offers any discount codes or special deals on flights or accommodation.
- Destination Guides: Apps that provide destination travel guides can help you find the best attractions and things to do in each location.
- Car Rental Booking: If you plan on renting a car during your travels, look for an app that allows you to book a rental car within the app easily.
- Trip Cancellation Insurance: Unexpected things can happen when traveling, so having trip cancellation insurance built into your travel app can give you peace of mind.
- User-Friendly Interface: The best travel apps have interfaces that are easy to navigate and user-friendly for travelers of all experience levels.
Remember to consider whether the app is available on both iOS and Android devices, whether a free version is available, or if it requires payment for full access.
Make sure the app is secure
When it comes to using travel apps, security should be a top priority. You’ll want to make sure that any app you choose is secure and won’t put your personal information at risk. Here are some tips for ensuring the app you’re using is safe:
- Check the app’s privacy policy: Make sure it has a clear and concise privacy policy outlining how they collect, use, and protect your data.
- Look for user reviews: Before downloading an app, take a few minutes to read through user reviews. This can help you get an idea of whether or not other travelers have had issues with security.
- Stick with reputable companies: Stick with well-known travel companies when choosing apps. Companies like Kayak, Airbnb, and TripIt have established reputations in the industry and are less likely to put your data at risk.
- Avoid sharing sensitive information: Be cautious about sharing sensitive information like your passport number or credit card details on any travel app unless absolutely necessary.
By taking these steps to ensure the security of any travel apps you use, you’ll be able to enjoy all their benefits without putting yourself at risk.
With the variety of travel apps available in 2023, planning and executing your next trip’s easier than ever. From flight and hotel booking apps to currency converters and navigation tools, there is an app for every aspect of travel.
When choosing a travel app, consider user reviews, cost, features, and security factors. Many popular options like TripIt, Airbnb, Kayak, and Google Maps are available for both iOS and Android devices and are always some of your best options.
Whether you’re planning a road trip or navigating a new destination abroad, these helpful travel apps can make all the difference. Download one (or several!) today to help you find deals on flights and accommodations or discover new attractions at your next travel destination
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Planning a vacation can be an overwhelming experience, but thanks to our smartphones, it’s easier to navigate the globe than ever before. While sightseers once had no choice but to rely on a travel agent, there are now countless mobile apps that make everything from booking tickets to discovering local gems an absolute breeze.
Whether applying for travel visas or calculating currency conversions, these apps help solve some of the most frustrating and niche issues that globetrotters often encounter. Make sure you have plenty of storage space on your phone, because here are eight of the best travel apps to download for an adventure-filled 2023.
While U.S. citizens are free to travel most of the world with just a U.S. passport, several countries from Australia to Vietnam require visitors to apply for a visa, which can be a harrowing process. Government bureaucracy often leads to nothing but confusion, especially with certain nations having their own sets of specific rules. Well thanks to Atlys , travelers needn’t jump through hoops anymore. Atlys’ own studies have suggested that it can take up to 13 hours for travelers to work through certain complex visa applications, but with this app that timeline can shrink down to a mere 10 minutes. Atlys turns tedium into a streamlined series of steps that will have you flying across the globe in no time. Even better is that by filling out just one visa application using Atlys, you immediately qualify through the app to visit over 150 countries, as 90% of visas require the same information.
LoungeBuddy
Sitting at the airport can be excruciating, as delays and cancellations can cause both stress and boredom. On the flip side, some overcautious people arrive at the airport hours early and are left with nothing to do but sit around and wait. No matter which group you fall into, LoungeBuddy helps make the most of your airport experience by offering access to comfortable airport lounges around the world. You don’t need a special ticket or any sort of membership, all you need is to book a one-time lounge pass and voila! Suddenly you’re relaxing in a comfy chair with decadent cocktails, or taking a warm shower after a long flight. For as low as $25 , you can turn the hectic nature of visiting the airport into a spa-like experience, as the app offers access to over 200 lounges in locations ranging from Atlanta, Georgia, all the way to Singapore.
One of the biggest concerns for travelers — especially solo travelers or those taking a vacation with children — is knowing that you’ll be safe during your trip. OZZI is an app that puts worried minds at ease. Whether you’re looking for a safe neighborhood, secure hotel, or tips from locals about staying safe, Ozzi has all the information necessary to avoid being accidentally thrust into a treacherous situation. Furthermore, the app sends real-time alerts once you’ve reached your destination, keeping you up to date on any unexpected happenings in the near vicinity that may put you at risk.
Sometimes the most stressful part of a vacation occurs long before it begins — we’re talking of course about packing. There’s no worse feeling than stressfully stuffing every last piece of clothing into a suitcase only to realize you forgot something after reaching the airport. PackPoint is an app that seeks to make sure that mistakes like that never happen again. According to their mission statement, PackPoint will take into consideration length of travel, weather conditions, and other planned activities in order to come up with a packing list that will cover all the bases throughout any vacation. The app has actually been around since 2013, and supports 20 languages , making it accessible for a wide array of travelers. Checklists are also shareable, making it perfect for coordinating on a group trip. You can also upgrade to the premium version in order to sync your Packpoint account with itinerary planning apps such as TripIt .
Xe Currency Converter
When traveling internationally, tourists should always be on the lookout for people trying to take advantage of them financially. For all the reputable currency conversion counters out there, there are plenty also trying to scam people who are none the wiser about conversion rates. With Xe Currency Converter , you needn’t worry about being taken advantage of, as the app provides live updates on foreign currency exchange rates for the U.S. dollar, British pound, and countless other types of legal tender. The app’s interface is simple and easy to use, and allows users the added benefit of viewing 10 years of historic data to see how rates have changed over time.
While it may be a bucket list item to visit the Eiffel Tower or Copacabana beach, it can be just as memorable to experience new destinations that are located off the beaten path. WithLocals is an app that operates in over 50 countries, where locals provide tips and tricks for how to explore the city like a true native resident. WithLocals highlights options that may be overlooked in most popular travel guides, and it’s all thanks to the word of mouth from those who know the country best. One of the coolest features of the WithLocals app is the ability to book a tour with a local guide who can show you hiking trails, museums, campsites, and so much more. Meeting friendly people abroad can be a challenge, especially with language barriers. But with WithLocals, it’s easier than ever to find a friendly face in a foreign land.
Speaking of socializing with locals, there are few things that bring people together more than food. Food is also one of the most indulgent ways to immerse yourself in another culture. That’s where Eatwith comes in, which is an app akin to Airbnb, but for food. Travelers can book unforgettable culinary experiences and enjoy a home-cooked meal in a far off land. But not only can you dine with locals, you can also sign up for a cooking class in over 130 cities worldwide. Some popular meals available for booking include a bistro dinner alongside the Amsterdam canal , a classic Roman market tour , and a macaron making workshop in Paris , so be sure to reserve your spot before they’re all booked up.
Roadtrippers
For the traveler who’s more keen on taking a roadtrip than a flight, Roadtrippers is the app for you. America is a big country, and even if we don’t realize it, driving down the highway means passing by dozens of local gems. Roadtrippers helps you find the best restaurants, roadside attractions, and scenic vistas along your route, adding an exciting and unexpected element to any roadtrip. You can add up to seven waypoints with a free Roadtrippers account, or a whopping 150 points if you upgrade to Roadtrippers Plus. And it’s not just the United States that this app comes in handy, as Roadtrippers also extends to Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and more.
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A travel resource for the adventurous and often-solo female
The Best Travel Apps in 2023
Blog , Tips & Resources / January 4, 2023 by Monica / Leave a Comment
Here is your comprehensive guide to the Best Travel Apps for every type of vacation! From planning to in-flight to on the ground, these travel apps will make your next vacation a breeze.
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The Best Apps for Travel – 2023
Whether you consider yourself a travel pro, or you’re not sure where to start, today’s technology can absolutely help you plan and travel smarter and cheaper! As a frequent solo traveler , this is invaluable.
I use what I consider to be the best travel apps on the market for planning my trips, for in-flight use, and finally, for on the ground. Read on for my recommendations on the best apps for travel.
The Best Travel Apps For Planning Your Trip:
1. booking (best hotel booking app).
For hotels, guesthouses, and hostels, the Booking app is my favorite tool to use when planning where to stay.
Why? Well, for one thing, users can filter search results based on hotel facilities like wifi availability, number of beds, ratings, parking, and even kitchens and pools. This is great because if you know you’ll require strong wifi or a kitchenette on your trip, you can easily eliminate accommodations that can’t provide this.
Also, this mobile version of their website offers regular “mobile-only discounts” that you won’t see online. And, the more you use it, you’ll begin to qualify for Genius Benefits like 10-15% off certain properties or free breakfast.
Lastly, they offer the most free cancellation options than any other service that I’ve ever seen. So, if plans; change, you’re covered.
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My second go-to spot for travel accommodations is the Airbnb app. While I don’t use it quite as much as Booking, Airbnb can offer unique places to stay around the world.
What I love about Airbnb is the option to book private apartments and have the opportunity to live like a local while abroad . When you want a full kitchen or laundry facilities or expect a long-term stay, Airbnb is your friend.
The downside of Airbnb is that their fees have gotten out of hand in many locations in the recent years. The price shown when searching does not usually include cleaning fees or other required taxes or fees for your destination… and nowadays these can more than double the price.
It’s worth a search, though, because there are still plenty of hidden gems! My favorites are the quirky desert homes found in Palm Springs and in Joshua Tree National Park .
3. Airline Apps
All of my regularly used airline’s apps have a permanent placeholder on my phone. This helps me to easily keep track of miles, award trips, airfare sales, and itinerary changes in a flash. Apps are also typically faster at informing you of gate changes during your trip or tracking your bags than text alerts tend to be.
If you are a member of an airline award program, download their app. Even if you aren’t a member, but are flying an airline for one specific trip, download their app for the duration of the trip (then delete as needed after your return).
4. Happy Cow
If you are vegetarian or vegan, this app will be super helpful while planning your trip (and when on-ground). As you probably know, depending on a destination’s traditional dishes, you may be hard-pressed to find plant based foods in some areas.
If you need to research how vegan and veg friendly a destination or city may be, this app can tell you many of the restaurants that either cater to or have plant based options on site.
Simply enter the destination and filters, and you’ll soon see a list of restaurants that will fit your dietary needs.
The Best Travel Apps For In-Flight Use:
5. priority pass (best for airport lounge access).
If you are part of the Priority Pass network, download this app immediately. Not only does it provide a digital version of your membership card (one less thing to carry and keep track of), it will help you find lounges, too.
Usually this app offers very detailed descriptions on exactly where to find each lounge, such as in what terminal; near which gate; upstairs or downstairs. But it also tells you what facilities the lounge has, from food to showers to sleeping areas.
If you are not a Priority Pass member, you should look into it. Access comes with certain credit cards in the USA but you can join independent of a credit card network, too.
I probably don’t need to explain to you what Netflix is, but as you can imagine, having loads of videos at your disposal during a 24+ hour flight can be invaluable.
An important tip; most airline wifi is sluggishly slow and can’t support streaming. Plan ahead at home or in the airport and download, download, download. It’s possible to filter all downloadable titles and see what is available.
7. Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime memberships also offer loads of videos and shows for free streaming. And again, these will need to be downloaded before you fly, as in-flight wifi speeds can be abysmal.
Plan for an abundance of shows – the Amazon Prime video app will often not work once you are abroad unless you have a VPN (more on that below.)
So, download for all legs of your flight while you’re at home or you won’t be able to access them abroad.
I am a total podcast junkie these days, and Spotify has a great library of podcasts available, for free.
Oftentimes on a plane, I like to give my eyeballs a rest from movies and books and just listen to my heart’s content. Again, download these before you start your journey and enjoy everything from mysteries to news to self-help to true crime podcasts while in-flight. It’s fabulous!
If you live in the United States (and have a public library card), Libby is an incredible find.
Forget paying for apps to access audiobooks – Libby will let you download audiobooks and digital books for free . The app is linked to the public library system in the USA, and provides everything listed above and more.
The only downside is that like a physical library item, at times you will have to wait for another borrower to return an item before you can access it. So it may not work if you have one popular item that you’re dying to read on a trip.
But if you’re like me and have a long list of titles of interest, then it’s totally possible to download the items before you hit the road.
10. Insight Timer
Insight Timer is a meditation app. It offers everything from guided meditations to peaceful music to rain sounds.
For those who are anxious to fly, download a guided meditation or two for when you’re in the sky. Personally, I love to play the binaural music tracks when I’m trying to relax and tune out noisy neighbors or crying babies in my row.
Bonus, this can also be useful in noisy hostels or hotels!
The Best Travel Apps On-the-Ground:
11. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is single-handedly the number one communication app to have while traveling. If you’re from the USA, this app is not commonly used by businesses in most areas. But, it is widely used abroad.
I’ve used this app to contact guesthouses, shops, motorbike operators, and more. It’s been incredibly useful in everything from planning a Tanzania safari to taking a road trip through Baja Sur, Mexico . This is one of the best travel apps you can possibly have during your trip.
12. Google Maps (Best maps app)
I’m pretty sure this comes standard on many phones nowadays, but if you don’t already have this downloaded then definitely get it.
Google Maps has a great network of maps worldwide. It’s been useful for me to navigate while driving rental cars and motorbikes, and has fairly good connectivity (depending on your international service or SIM) in many different countries.
I also use Google maps tirelessly when walking, as I love that you can get both driving and walking directions to destinations.
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13. Waze (best driving app)
Waze is another popular map and driving app in the United States. So why would I recommend two of them?
In certain countries, Waze offered me better map coverage than Google Maps. For real! And, more often than not, Waze has a much more accurate arrival time than Google Maps does.
If you have the space on your phone, download both and cover all bases.
14. XE Currency Converter (Best Currency App)
Not so long ago, I used to carry a calculator on all of my travels (I was super late to the smart phone game). I would manually convert currency via the calculator, but nowadays, XE is my go-to currency converting app.
The rates are updated basically by the minute, and it’s coverage spans 170 countries. XE is a necessary app for me, and frankly the best travel app for currency conversion.
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15. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is my favorite VPN app for travel. It is not free, but it is well worth the cost.
VPNs keep your data private when on public wifi networks. Think passwords, account names, and credit card info. Safe and secure. This app allows me to keep track of my banking and log into all accounts without worry of anyone accessing my info.
This is also handy for streaming videos abroad on certain apps like Netflix or Hulu. Can’t recommend ExpressVPN enough!
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16. Google Translate
Google Translate is one of the best travel apps, hands down! It definitely has it’s quirks, but more often than not it’s a huge help.
First, Google translate can recognize over 100 languages. You can type in words and phrases and translate them to English (or vice versa) quite easily. Need to learn how to order your lunch? Easy! Type it in and voila.
Second, Google Translate offers an on-screen translate tool that basically scans items written in another language (think a menu or a store sign) and then reveals what those things say in English. While scanning is not always available in more obscure alphabets like Armenian , it has still helped me ten-fold.
The app doesn’t always translate things perfectly, but it is very very useful.
Uber is becoming more and more common in many parts of the world. I’ve used it in Egypt and Dubai to reach places like the Dubai Miracle Garden and in all around Vilnius, Lithuania to see my favorite sights.
When you’re not able to use public transportation or don’t have a rental car, Uber is a great option in many places around the world. I recommend rideshare apps over taxis for many reasons, which you can read about here .
18. Grab App
Grab is like the Uber of Southeast Asia. Uber does not exist here, so Grab is a necessary download for these regions: Singapore, Cambodia , Indonesia , Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines.
If you’re not headed to Southeast Asia, obviously disregard this one, but it’s worth a mention! I’m in the region often enough that I keep it on my phone year-round.
You May Also Like: 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Bali
19. AllTrails
If you love to hike, this is the app for you! From my favorite hikes in Anza Borrego to the wide array of hikes in Arches National Park , the AllTrails app is a must.
AllTrails documents over 200,000 trails in an array of countries, from the USA to Mexico to Oman and more. The app tells you how long the hikes are, what level, and users can leave reviews offering on-the-ground tips that can be incredibly useful when trying a new trail.
Don’t skip this one if you’re heading to the hiking trails! Need tips on planning? Check out this article next.
The Best Travel Apps For Once You Return:
Last but certainly not least, one of the best travel apps of all time is called “been”. It’s a fun map where you can keep track of which countries you’ve visited and sort of “check them off” as you go.
While it’s not going to help you plan or even help you on the ground, I love this app for once I return home.
Although it doesn’t have many extra features, it helps solidify my geography knowledge, too! (If we ever play trivia and “Travel” is a category, you definitely want me on your team!)
And there you have it! My tried and true list of the best apps for travel that have won permanent space on my phone, every day year-round. Download them before you go!
Do you have any travel apps that you can’t live without? Let me know below!
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About Monica
Monica has been a solo female world traveler for over 15 years. She is an expert on outdoor adventures, solo female travel, and off the beaten path destinations. She is the founder of This Rare Earth and is a firm believer that the world is not as scary as the media might have you think! Learn more about her here . Connect with her on Instagram .
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Home » Travel Tips
The 21 Best Travel Apps to Download for Your Next Adventure
As much fun as it is to travel, some aspects of traveling can prove to be an absolute headache. From planning your trip to navigating your destination, much more is involved than you want to think about. So, don’t. The power of stress-free travel sits right in the palm of your hand with some of the best travel apps for organizing your itinerary, packing your bags, getting through security, and so much more. If you’re ready for the stress-free adventure of a lifetime, then get ready to download your new favorite travel companions.
Table of Contents
The best travel apps for planning and organizing, the best travel apps for navigating the airport, the best travel apps for your destination.
- The Best Travel Apps for Staying Safe
The Best Travel Apps for Saving Money
The best travel app for cheap flight deals isn’t an app: it’s next vacay.
Find the perfect flight, plan the perfect route, and pack the perfect bag. Here are the best travel apps to add to your trip planning and organizing for a stress-free travel experience.
Google Travel
Google is a one-stop shop for all your most important search needs, so why shouldn’t that extend to travel, too? Lucky for us, it does. With Google Travel, you can explore flight prices, compare hotel rates, and even check out exciting sights and excursions at your destination.
If you easily get app fatigue, Google Travel keeps things simple by having all your travel needs in one convenient location. You can toggle between the different pages with ease and track hotel and flight price changes with their tracking features. For those just dipping their toes into the world of travel planning, Google Travel puts the world within reach. Even better, because it’s not technically an app, you don’t have to worry about downloading it to use. Just type Google Travel into the search and get right to work.
Feature Highlight: Get the best flight price guaranteed with Google’s price guarantee badge. (If the price drops, Google will pay back the difference.)
If you’re a disorganized traveler—or even better, if you love staying organized—say hello to your new best friend. TripIt was designed for both the organized and unorganized traveler, helping you build comprehensive itineraries out of all your messy bookings.
For those who hate doing anything beyond clicking “Book Now,” TripIt makes organization easy by allowing you to forward all your booking confirmations to the app. Or, if you’re particularly fussy about every little detail, you can manually enter them yourself. TripIt then compiles all your bookings into a handy-dandy itinerary that sends out reminders and alerts, letting you know where you need to be and when you need to be there for the most relaxed trip of your life every time.
Feature Highlight: Share your itinerary with friends and family quickly and easily through TripIt’s sharing feature.
IOS | Android
Roadtrippers
While Roadtrippers is specific to road travel, we couldn’t leave it off the list of best travel apps simply because of how stellar it is at what it does. With stops available in the US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, plotting out your autoroutes has never been easier.
The map lets you explore everything from national parks to hidden gems and plan everything from what to eat to where to stop for fuel and even rest your head at night, all along your route. When you add a site, Roadtrippers automatically adjusts your itinerary, or you can choose to plot your course from one of the pre-made trip guides.
The free version allows you to plan short trips of three stops or less, while the Premium version costs $59.99/year and allows you to add up to 150 stops.
Feature Highlight: Get estimated gas prices along your route so you can put away the right amount for your gas budget.
Packing often isn’t the worst part about your travel—it’s making packing lists. So, skip it.
Instead of stressing over what to pack for a beach vacation or a winter getaway, you can let PackPoint do it for you. The app works by creating custom packing lists for your trip. All you have to do is fill out the important bits:
- Where you’re going
- When you’re going
- How long you’ll be gone
- Any special activities
From there, PackPoint goes to work to create a custom-fitted packing list for your travels. All that’s left for you to do is pack—and maybe share it with a friend, so they don’t have to suffer the joyless task of creating their own packing list.
Feature Highlight: Connect to TripIt to auto-create packing lists from your trip itinerary. (Only available with PackPoint Premium.)
Is the airport stress stressing you out? Rest assured, you don’t have to dread the airport. With the right apps, you can become an airport pro. Make getting through security a breeze and make your time at the airport your favorite part of travel—or at least, your most relaxed.
MyTSA App
Ever had a last-minute question about what you can bring in your carry-on? Ever argued with your travel buddies about how early is too early to get to the airport? For the answers to your burning questions, there’s the MyTSA App. Before even stepping foot in the building, you can check out how busy the airport typically is and the projected wait times for TSA checkpoints. Consult the app for delays and double-check how to properly store your food and liquid items so you can all but breeze through security. Next to TSA PreCheck, the MyTSA App is your ticket to an easy and stress-free security check.
Feature Highlight: Use the “Can I Bring” search function to check that those last-minute items you’re packing will clear security.
LoungebBuddy
Long layovers, hard steel chairs, outlets that don’t work—there’s a lot to dread about your airport experience. So skip the endless hours in uncomfortable seats and make the most of your time on the ground with LoungeBuddy.
LoungeBuddy is the perfect companion for frequent flyers who spend a fair amount of time waiting for their next flight. With the app, travelers can access over 2,000 airport lounges worldwide, allowing them to see which lounges are available at their airports and what amenities they offer. Don’t already have access through your travel credit card, lounge memberships, or booked ticket? Fear not; LoungeBuddy lets users book access directly through the app. So, no matter where you go, if you’re flying first class or economy, you can always look forward to a premium airport experience every time.
Feature Highlight: Reserve an entrance pass to your lounge months in advance, so you have peace of mind you can enjoy a peaceful escape on the go.
Airline App
When navigating the airport, from tracking your flight to hunting down your luggage, there’s no better app to have than your airline’s mobile app. While you may not necessarily want to download the app for every airline you use, if you’re a frequent flyer with one airline or flying with a new airline for the first time, it can be especially helpful for managing your account and getting to know the ins and outs of your airport experience with the airline.
Perhaps best of all, these travel apps are always free.
Feature Highlight: Use the navigation maps to scope out where to grab food, where to shop, and, most importantly, where to find your gate.
AA | Delta | United | JetBlue | Southwest
Mobile Passport Control
Operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Mobile Passport Control is a free app that lets you sail through customs upon return to the US. Whereas lengthier programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry require a background check, interview, and preapproval, all you need for MPC is proof of citizenship or permanent residence.
With ID in hand, simply download the app and fill out your info. When you touchdown in the US, start your entry process. All it takes is a few clicks, and you get access to an expedited entry that helps you skip the long lines you’ve come to dread and makes returning to the US even easier than it was to leave.
Feature Highlight: Select up to 12 members of your family to include on one submission form.
Never fear getting lost or turned around again—or finding yourself in need of a public restroom with none in sight. Run, don’t walk, to these apps that will make navigating your destination and staying connected truly effortless.
Google Maps
Google Maps is hard to beat for getting around your destination. Offering a bird’s eye view of where you are, Google Maps breaks down how best to get to where you want to go, whether traveling by foot, car, public transit, or even bicycle.
Travelers can easily find what’s around them, from bars and restaurants to shops and attractions. You don’t even have to leave the app to get more details for most places. Google Maps provides descriptions, pictures, hours of operation, and even reviews from other patrons. The real clincher is the ability to save maps offline so you can access them on the go, whether your cell service is spotty at best or entirely nonexistent.
Feature Highlight: Use saved “Lists” to curate a map of pinned locations—your favorite attractions, restaurants, bars, and more.
Sometimes, you don’t need all the extra frills; you just need an app that gets you where you need to go. For that, there’s Citymapper.
While its scope is limited to cities—and major cities at that—Citymapper makes navigating big and confusing cities, including those hardest to navigate , a breeze—or as close as the directionally challenged are likely to get. With real-time public transportation information, detailed breakdowns of routes by bus, train, tube, car, bike, or scooter, and detailed directions for things like which subway station entrance is best, Citymapper makes the big city feel just that teensy bit smaller.
Feature Highlight : Check out your Trip Stats to see fun details like how many calories you burned and how much money you saved on your journey.
XE Currency Converter
Want to know the exchange rate while you’re traveling around Sweden? Japan? New Zealand? With Xe, you can always stay on top of your money and know exactly how far your money will go wherever you are. The app also works without Wi-Fi, so you don’t have to worry about losing this information, either. It stays at your fingertips whether online in a cafe or offline and on the go.
Feature Highlight: Save and monitor up to 10 currencies at once to quickly and easily check the exchange rate while shopping, dining, or booking that last-minute excursion on-site.
WhatsApp, for the uninitiated, is a lot like iMessage: It lets you text and make calls over Wi-Fi no matter where you are in the world or what device your friends or family use. In addition, the app offers a few other helpful features. WhatsApp Statuses let you keep your family and friends up-to-date on what you’re doing. The group texting feature lets you share polls to vote on what you want to do next. And sharing features allow you to attach documents like travel itineraries and bookings without having to email them. While there’s no best messaging app in the world, WhatsApp is a great start to connecting with everyone anywhere you travel.
Not only is the app free, but it also helps you save money on international messaging fees by letting you avoid them altogether.
Feature Highlight: Share daily moments from your travels with your family on Status.
Google Translate
At this point, it shouldn’t be a surprise to see another Google app eking out a top spot among the best travel apps. As if getting around in a new country wasn’t hard enough, not knowing the local language can make something as simple as reading street signs confusing. That’s not a problem with Google Translate.
Manually enter text into the translator to convert it to your native language, or snap a photo and have it translated that way. You can even have the text read to you so you know how to pronounce it correctly. And, of course, if you’re trying to communicate with someone, you can switch the languages to know what to say and how to say it. This makes understanding the world easy, no matter how confusing the street signs get.
Feature Highlight: Download your favorite languages to use offline.
In the immortal words of Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park: “When you gotta go, you gotta go.” When you need a restroom while you’re on the go, knowing where to find the closest toilet can be a lifesaver. Flush offers a database of over 200,000 public toilets worldwide. The app lets you know how to get to the closest one, whether there’s a fee, and if the restroom is ADA-accessible. When it comes down to the wire, this app may just save your day, if not your whole trip!
The Best Travel Apps for Staying Safe
Staying safe on the go is just as important as staying safe at home, whether you’re a female traveler going it solo or another in a group of travelers. Be sure to put downloading these travel apps at the top of your to-do list for the best travel experience and a worry-free trip.
Smart Traveler
Every smart traveler knows that the best way to stay safe while traveling is to do your due diligence beforehand. For that, there’s the Smart Traveler App. Overseen by the U.S. State Department, the app allows travelers to check travel advisories, entry and exit requirements, health and safety warnings, and more before you even start booking your trip.
Once you settle on your destination, you can register your trip with local embassies through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and stay one step ahead of emergencies. Become a smart traveler and give yourself some much-needed peace of mind while traveling abroad.
In the US, 911 is the standard number to call for emergencies. But as any international traveler will know, that’s not always the case abroad. Emergency numbers can differ from country to country and even service to service. And the last thing you want in an emergency is to realize you don’t know who to call. That’s why you download EchoSOS.
With emergency numbers in over 128 countries, you can quickly and easily access the right number to get help when you need it. Calls can be made directly from the app and show your location, so even if you don’t know where you are, emergency services will. Travel safely and stress-free, with help just a call away.
Feature Highlight: Find nearby emergency rooms and check out their wait times to get help fast on the go.
You might wonder just how safe an app can keep you on your travels. It is only an app after all. But bSafe isn’t just any app. While others might also show where you are in real-time, bSafe takes it a step further with live streaming, so friends and family (added as guardians) can see and hear everything that’s happening. If you find yourself in an unsafe situation, you can activate the SOS alarm. This will immediately start video and audio recording, and send a notification to your guardians. They can then open the alert to see your location, local time, and emergency livestream. Once the danger has passed, you can confirm you’re safe, and the app will again notify your guardians.
With voice activation, a Follow me feature, and a timer alarm, you’ll truly never have to make a journey alone again.
Feature Highlight: Schedule a fake phone call to escape uncomfortable or unsafe situations.
The only thing simpler than getting help with a phone call is getting help with the press of a button. Touted as America’s number one safety app, Noonlight helps you get from point A to point B safely by acting as your personal panic button. If you encounter an unsafe situation or even one that makes you feel uneasy, just open the Noonlight app and hold the button. Once you release it, help will be on the way shortly. But, if there’s no danger, or you reach safety, you can release the button, enter a 4-digit PIN, and be on your way.
Feature Highlight: Use Timeline to note relevant details, like meeting someone new or an encounter with a suspicious person, to have it shared with authorities if you trigger an alarm.
Always looking for ways to cut down on your travel budget? Say hello to your new favorite cost-conscious travel buddies who can help you find the best deals and the cheapest prices no matter where you are in the world.
Obi: Rideshare
Every traveler, at some point, has wondered if they’re overpaying to get from point A to point B. But outside of downloading every app and comparing prices, there’s not much to do about it—except maybe download just one app.
With Obi, travelers can compare prices between rideshares like Uber, Lyft, and taxi services to save money. Simply choose a destination, compare prices between available transportation companies, and book. Enjoy the cheapest ride every time with Obi in your pocket.
ATM Fee Saver
Don’t have a handy travel card that reimburses your ATM fees? You don’t have to consider yourself unlucky, just consider downloading the ATM Fee Saver as your budget-conscious travel companion. The ATM Fee Saver helps you find free and low-fee ATMs near you so you can get the cash you need in a hurry without paying a fortune to access your own money. Users can get tips on using ATMs in over 45 countries and chart a course for the closest and cheapest ATM to get money fast while on the go.
Feature Highlight: Use the calculator to estimate any fees for your ATM withdrawal amount.
Ready to hit the road? GasBuddy makes it easier and cheaper than ever. With the app, travelers can search for the cheapest gas prices along their route, get tips on using less gas, and even score free gas rewards from shopping at favorite retailers. With GasBuddy, you can stop worrying about running out of gas or paying more at the pump and simply enjoy the ride.
Feature Highlight: Track your driving habits to make future trips more fuel-efficient and save at the pump.
Want to get the cheapest flight deals to destinations all over the world? Try out Next Vacay. It’s as easy as downloading your favorite app without taking up more precious phone storage. Just enter your email, select your airport, and you can get deals delivered right to your inbox. Never miss an incredible deal or a life-changing trip ever again. So sign up and discover the best way to save time, money, and stress—because the best travel app isn’t an app at all; it’s Next Vacay .
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Best Travel Apps For 2023
Utilizing appropriate travel applications can save time and cost while reducing travel-related stress. These apps not only offer local recommendations and lesser-known attractions that tourists often miss, but some are also available at no cost.
The most exceptional travel apps are designed to aid in planning your upcoming domestic or international vacations. They can help you find inexpensive flights , save on accommodations, and explore foreign destinations in the largest cities worldwide . These applications aim to simplify your entire travel experience, assisting in the initial planning stages to the final moments of your journey. They offer features such as flight and hotel bookings, expense tracking, and information on nearby tourist spots. Here, we present the must-have Best Travel Apps For 2023!
Google Translate
Tripadvisor , hotels.com , google maps , airbnb , tripadvisor travel apps, weather channel app for travelers, nordvpn , top 10 most popular travel apps and websites, translation apps (travel guide apps).
Nowadays, the ability to communicate with individuals from different linguistic backgrounds is vital, especially when interacting and traveling with foreigners. Thankfully, technology has make a way for innovative solutions. The Google Translate is an essential translation tool that enables users to enter text in their native language and instantly obtain translations into other languages spoken by nearby individuals. It also provides real-time speech translations between speakers of different languages, making it especially useful when internet access is unavailable. However, despite the convenience of these translation apps, both parties involved still value some level of personal interaction.
According to the Best Travel Guides Application For 2023, language translation apps serve as a lifeline for travelers venturing abroad or communicating with foreigners. These apps facilitate communication with locals and ensure seamless interactions in places like airports, trains, buses, and even restaurants.
Beyond its practical utility, Google Translate plays a pivotal role in promoting cultural exchange by encouraging the users to embrace the languages and customs of the places they travel to. By breaking down language barriers, the app enables travelers to connect with locals and immerse themselves in new cultures. Even in regions with limited internet access, the app’s offline capabilities ensure that language never becomes an obstacle to exploration and adventure.
Flight Booking Apps (travel booking apps)
TripAdvisor holds the position of being the world’s largest and most influential travel website. It acts as a comprehensive platform, collecting and presenting information and reviews about attractions and businesses, providing travelers with valuable insights into their preferred travel destinations or even flight delays. The website’s primary advantage lies in its user-generated content, which consists of valuable insights, ratings, and reviews shared by millions of generous travelers. This vast repository of first-hand experiences encompasses a wide range of topics, including attractions, flights, accommodations, restaurants, and various travel-related businesses. By tapping into this wealth of knowledge, potential travelers can make informed decisions, ensuring they have the most enjoyable and rewarding travel experiences possible.
Hotels.com is a significant global player in the realm of hotel accommodations. Through its localized websites, it offers extensive booking services for hotels worldwide. As a trailblazer in the online travel industry, Hotels.com has firmly established itself as a reliable and popular platform for individuals in search of comfortable and convenient accommodation options worldwide.
At the core of Hotels.com’s triumph is its extensive reach and all-encompassing database of hotels, spanning a diverse array of destinations, from vibrant urban cities to serene beach getaways. Travelers are presented with a wide selection of hotels, each accompanied by comprehensive descriptions, photographs, and customer reviews, offering valuable insights to aid them in making well-informed decisions. This wealth of information empowers travelers to find the perfect lodging that aligns with their preferences and needs.
Omio stands out as an innovative and user-friendly booking platform catering to international travelers exploring Europe, the United States, and Canada. It allows customers to compare effortlessly and book trains, buses, flights, and ferries, resulting in both time and cost savings during their journeys.
If you are on a budget, the Best Travel Apps For 2023 highly recommends these apps since they do not charge booking fees, unlike other platforms. However, if your primary concern is finding the best possible deals and transportation costs are not a priority, these applications might not suit your preferences.
Navigation Apps (best free travel apps )
Google Maps is an extensive web-based service that furnishes comprehensive information about geographical regions and locations worldwide. Users can access aerial and satellite views of various places and traditional road maps. In select cities, Google Maps also offers street views comprising images captured from vehicle-mounted cameras.
In certain cities, Google Maps introduces an innovative street view feature that enables users to virtually explore their surroundings through vehicle-mounted photographs. This unique functionality enhances the overall immersive experience, providing a more in-depth understanding of different locations.
Moreover, Google Maps offers the practicality of offline maps, a highly beneficial feature for travelers on road trips where internet access might be scarce. This capability ensures that users can rely on the app’s navigation even in areas with limited connectivity, making it a valuable tool for travelers worldwide.
Waze is a navigation app that utilizes real-time data from its users to provide the most efficient route to a destination. It takes into consideration factors such as accidents, traffic congestion, speed traps, construction, and other obstacles that could impact the driving experience and slow down the driver. By leveraging real-time information from its community of users, Waze aims to optimize travel routes and make driving more convenient.
Through its collection and analysis of user-generated data, Waze swiftly identifies and takes into account various road conditions, such as accidents, traffic congestion, speed traps, road closures, and construction areas. This continuous monitoring of real-time data enables Waze to promptly update and adjust route suggestions for drivers. By leveraging both user input and advanced algorithms, the app ensures that drivers receive up-to-the-minute guidance, enabling them to navigate around traffic and delays, thus optimizing their travel routes. Waze’s ability to combine user-contributed updates and cutting-edge technology empowers drivers with accurate and efficient navigation options, making it a valuable tool for commuters and travelers alike.
As a result, Waze enhances users’ travel experiences by providing smoother and more efficient journeys, saving them both time and frustration while on the road. By harnessing the collective intelligence of its user community, Waze transforms this data into practical navigation guidance, making it a trusted and popular app for millions of drivers worldwide. Its real-time, accurate, and hassle-free navigation assistance has solidified Waze as the go-to application for those seeking reliable and up-to-date travel directions, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.
Attractions, Local Events, and Lodging Apps (best holiday apps)
Little did you know that Airbnb is a must-have app for travelers planning to stay in an Airbnb accommodation during their trip. Airbnb is a website that facilitates homeowners renting out their properties to travelers seeking a place to stay. With over 4 million listings available in more than 34,000 cities worldwide, you can easily find suitable options near your desired location. To use the app, input your travel details, and the search function will display all available listings within the specified area. If a listing catches your interest, you can instantly request it for booking. Even if there are no immediate options nearby, the app will suggest alternative accommodations within a 10-mile radius to ensure everyone can enjoy their trip to the fullest.
The TripAdvisor app is a valuable tool for travelers, particularly when searching for restaurants during their journeys, whether abroad or locally. The app boasts a user-friendly interface, making navigation effortless, even for non-tech-savvy individuals. Travelers who love exploring foreign lands but are still determining the expenses can rely on TripAdvisor to gain insights and recommendations from other users about hotels, motels, hostels, and more.
As per the recommendations of the Best Travel Apps For 2023, these apps are exceptional resources for discovering your destination. They offer information about local eateries, attractions, and events, enabling you to learn about the history of the city or region you are visiting and uncover hidden gems that many tourists often overlook.
Transportation Travel Apps (travel app download)
Uber is a prominent transportation company that operates through its user-friendly app, enabling passengers to request rides and drivers to credit fares and receive payments. It functions as a ridesharing platform, utilizing independent contractors as its drivers. Offering a more convenient alternative to traditional taxi services, Uber has become a preferred choice for customers dissatisfied with other transportation companies’ standard corporate service models.
Turo stands as the world’s largest peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace. The platform allows users to book any car they desire, regardless of their location, from local hosts in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Whether travelers are arriving from afar or need a car nearby, Turo offers a diverse range of vehicles, from rugged trucks to luxurious options, ensuring guests can find the perfect ride for any occasion. At the same time, hosts have the opportunity to establish an accessible, flexible, and scalable car-sharing business from scratch.
Other Best Travel Apps For 2023 (best international travel apps)
The Weather Channel App is highly recommended as the top weather app for both iOS and Android devices, according to the Best Travel Apps For 2023. It offers detailed local forecasts, including hourly, daily, and weekly weather predictions. Additionally, the app features a “Feels like” function that assists users in preparing for their day by providing insights on what to pack based on the weather conditions. The application also forecasts the weather for each trip day and alerts users about any potential temperature fluctuations.
XE Currency Converter
XE makes it quick to check for the live mid-market rates. You can use the renowned XE Currency Converter as it is free and supports more than 170 currencies. Besides, it updates every 60 seconds. One advantage of using XE is that this service entirely free of charge. It is readily accessible to a wide range of users worldwide. It also ensures that users can efficiently convert any currency they need, whether for business transactions, personal travel, or investment purposes.
XE stands out from its competitors with its real-time updates, continuously refreshing exchange rates every 60 seconds. This commitment to providing the most current and up-to-date information sets XE apart, particularly in the dynamic realm of global currencies, where even minor fluctuations can have significant consequences. The app’s emphasis on accuracy and real-time data ensures that users have access to the most reliable and timely currency exchange information.
If you want safety when using public Wi-Fi, another Best Travel Apps For 2023 is NordVPN . This app enables users to protect their personal data and work files while accessing the internet in various parts of the world. NordVPN encrypts the internet connection, ensuring the privacy of browsing history and online activities, giving travelers peace of mind during their trips.
Besides, NordVPN’s global reach enables travelers to maintain their online anonymity and safeguard their browsing history regardless of their worldwide location. With NordVPN, travelers can enjoy the advantages of public Wi-Fi without revealing their security and privacy, making it an vital companion for any tech-savvy globetrotter in 2023.
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See It. TripCase is a free app that helps you organize your trip by making an itinerary for you. The itinerary can include flights, accommodations, rental cars, restaurant reservations, and more ...
The best travel apps of 2023, according to Apple 1. Flighty. Apple slapped an Editor's Choice award on Flighty because of its informative, comprehensive flight maps and top-tier forecasting on delays.
The best travel apps can answer these questions and more, making them perennial must-haves for anyone looking to score cheap family vacations, ... Originally Published: February 15, 2023
My favorite app on this list is Flighty, a must-have for any frequent flier.The free version is fantastic, but I recommend splurging for the premium version, which gives you even more useful ...
HomeExchange - House Swapping. HomeExchange is a vacation rental app like Airbnb that is more of a barter system. As the name suggests, the app lets you swap homes with another member. HomeExchange facilitates transactions with "Guest Points," which are earned through hosting and spent by staying at another house.
The app is free to download. 4. Skyscanner. Skyscanner is my go-to website for finding cheap flights (they also offer hotels and car rentals too). Their mobile app searches millions of flights from thousands of sources and then gives you the best options available. There are also lots of filters you can use to sort by price, duration, number of ...
TripIt features: Platform: App and website | Compatibility: iOS and Android | Pricing: Free or $49 per year | Booking: No | Group planning: Yes. In terms of planning a trip, creating an itinerary ...
2. Hopper. Hopper is another iOS app that is focused on helping you find the best deals on flights. The app uses advanced algorithms to predict when flight prices are likely to be at their lowest ...
Wanderlog. Cost: Free to use (Wanderlog Pro includes additional features and costs around £40 per year) USP: One of the best travel apps for planning every kind of trip, including road trips and group travel: create a trip itinerary, budget costs, organise flights and hotel reservations, and collaborate with friends.
We have put together some of the best travel apps around for iOS and Android to help you find, plan and experience the best vacation possible. ... Best Travel Apps (Updated for 2023) Travel apps have made going on holiday a completely different experience from the old days of calling a travel agent, and then having to rely on word of mouth once ...
ITUNES. Hopper has changed in recent years from just offering a price prediction tool for flights to being a true online travel agency. The app helps travelers find the cheapest flights, hotels and rental cars. Of course, Hopper also still offers its signature price prediction technology to help you plan out when to book, as well as travel ...
SYGIC Travel Maps Trip Planner. Sygic Travel Maps, the new version of Sygic Trip Planner, is the first travel app to display all of the attractions and places a traveler needs to see and visit on a single map. Sync your trips with the Sygic Travel app and find hidden gems in all cities you visit. The app boast a large database that allows you ...
Dec. 20, 2023. Credit: Roadtrippers. > Tech. Apple's App Store editors came together and picked the best travel apps of 2023 — 20 in total. Some may be familiar to you already, including Airbnb, Lyft, Uber, Hopper, Yelp, Tripadvisor, and KAYAK. Plus, Apple spotlighted some popular swift-entry apps, including CLEAR and MyTSA, but what about ...
Top VPN apps for travelers include: StrongVPN, which offers encrypted web browsing worldwide through one of 700 private servers in 34 countries, with plans starting at $3.66 a month. NordVPN ( Android) ( iOS), which has thousands of servers across the globe and costs less than $7 per month.
Travel apps have become indispensable tools for globetrotters. From organizing itineraries to finding the best local spots to eat and explore, apps can enhance your travel experience and make your journey more seamless. Here are ten travel apps that can simplify planning and transform the way you ex
Booking.com is one of the best travel apps for Europe. 11. Vrbo is a best holiday app. Lately, this has been my go-to app for booking vacation rentals. While Airbnb is a great alternative, Vrbo specializes more in vacation homes, including beach houses, cabins, and long-term rentals rather than apartments and condos.
Best Travel Apps for 2023. As a co-founder of a travel start-up and a keen traveller I appreciate travel apps which optimise usability, have a great aesthetic and make travel simpler. From translating bilingual conversations and online privacy protection tools to tracking trip spend and flight prices, there are plenty of travel apps making ...
User-Friendly Interface: The best travel apps have interfaces that are easy to navigate and user-friendly for travelers of all experience levels. Remember to consider whether the app is available on both iOS and Android devices, whether a free version is available, or if it requires payment for full access.
Whether applying for travel visas or calculating currency conversions, these apps help solve some of the most frustrating and niche issues that globetrotters often encounter. Make sure you have plenty of storage space on your phone, because here are eight of the best travel apps to download for an adventure-filled 2023.
The Best Travel Apps For In-Flight Use: 5. Priority Pass (Best for Airport Lounge Access) If you are part of the Priority Pass network, download this app immediately. Not only does it provide a digital version of your membership card (one less thing to carry and keep track of), it will help you find lounges, too.
The Best Travel Apps for Staying Safe ; The Best Travel Apps for Saving Money; The Best Travel App for Cheap Flight Deals Isn't an App: It's Next Vacay; The Best Travel Apps for Planning and Organizing . Find the perfect flight, plan the perfect route, and pack the perfect bag. Here are the best travel apps to add to your trip planning and ...
Other Best Travel Apps For 2023 (best international travel apps) Weather Channel App For Travelers . The Weather Channel App is highly recommended as the top weather app for both iOS and Android devices, according to the Best Travel Apps For 2023. It offers detailed local forecasts, including hourly, daily, and weekly weather predictions.
4. Odyssey Travel App: In our quest for the best travel apps, we came across the Odyssey Travel App, a true gem for explorers. This app combines itinerary planning, navigation, and local recommendations into one user-friendly interface. With Odyssey, your journey becomes an adventure of its own.
Roundup of iOS apps for international travelers. 2. Facebook. x.com. Reddit. International travel can pose challenges, but these iOS apps can ease your troubles and enhance your experience ...
TripIt is a mobile itinerary app that allows you to compile your road trip or travel plans all in one place. You can send your travel confirmation emails to the app, add things like photos and ...
Babbel is a language-learning app known for its engaging, bite-sized, and practical lessons. The app's lessons are based on real-world conversations, features speech recognition technology to help with pronunciation, and uses games and podcasts to help students explore the language further. 8. Realworld. Realworld | Crunchbase
For kids, a vacation with a grandparent (and without the kid's parents) can be a wonderful multigenerational bonding opportunity. Grandparents and grandkids traveling together, without the middle generation, is a growing trend known as skip-gen travel. And while you don't need to travel far from home or spend a fortune to enjoy popular skip-gen destinations that are fun for all ages, there ...