An assortment of essential apps can transform your smartphone from a time-wasting gadget into any traveler’s most versatile and indispensable companion! Is wanderlust making your feet itch already? Then load these nine apps up to your phone and start putting together your next adventure!
1. Trip Planner
Unless you’re into that sort of thing, why go somewhere blind when all the info you need is at your fingertips? A trip-planning app is like an on-demand local guide who knows all the spots you should visit to get the most out of any destination. They let you plan and save itineraries, discover lesser-known attractions, and even hire actual guides or book various activities.
2. Travel Aggregator
When you know where you want to go, it’s time to snag the best deals possible! Aggregator apps like Traveloka help by collecting data on the best prices on accommodation, airline tickets, local transportation, and even complete travel packages.
Getting awesome deals often means booking months in advance, but the savings are worth it. You might also want to check the deals out on such an app but deal with the airline, hotel, etc., directly to get better customer support.
3. Maps
Nothing’s better than an interactive map and GPS to get your bearings at a place you’re visiting for the first time. And you don’t have to use Google Maps specifically – map applications range from ones that provide navigation and highlight interesting landmarks to specialized services offering detailed hiking or biking trails.
4. Weather App
The last thing you want is for a thunderstorm to catch you in the middle of nowhere. A comprehensive weather app will display real-time data on current weather and offer accurate predictions so you can plan your days accordingly.
Some also integrate with national and global weather monitoring services and will warn you of worsening conditions in time.
5. Translation App
While you can converse in English with around 2 billion people worldwide, the chances you’ll find some in a remote Vietnamese village are slim. Translator apps simplify things by turning text and speech from one language into the other quickly and accurately. Some even use augmented reality to convert directions, notices, and other important information to a language you understand in real time.
6. Currency Converter
Dealing with local currency can be a hassle, and unsavory exchanges might even rip you off with unfair rates. A currency conversion app will prevent this and make sure you don’t overspend. Such apps offer live conversion rates and can track multiple currencies to help you avoid confusion.
7. VPN App
Vacations might be a time to let your hair down, but that does NOT mean you should neglect your online safety! You’re at more risk than usual since free chargers and public Wi-Fi are abundant and prone to hacking. A VPN for travel is a number one tool. It encrypts your connection, keeping your identity safe from prying eyes, and lets you use the internet, chat, or send files to others without anyone being able to track or take advantage of your activities.
It’s overall a good idea to take care of your privacy, like removing your information from the Internet. Nobody should have more information about you than necessary. Then, fewer threats will follow you anywhere in the (online) world.
8. Ridesharing App
Many destinations have a developed and safe public transport system. Still, that won’t help you get back to your hotel at 4 AM after a night out on the town. Rideshare apps connect you with local drivers who’ll safely bring you from one point to another whenever you need it. They usually let you pay in whichever currency is most convenient for you, so there’s one less expense conversion to worry about.
You can’t immerse yourself in the local culture if you don’t get to know the people. Social apps make it easier than ever to find some! Whether you’re looking for a buddy to have a beer with at a local pub or a whirlwind vacation romance, social apps are sure to improve your odds.
10. Expense Division App
You may have heard about these – apps where each of the travelers logs the things they’ve spent their money on to divide who owes to whom. It’s especially convenient when you travel with more people and don’t pay for everything separately.
All in All…
You don’t have to download all the apps listed – think about your needs and the more likely-to-happen inconveniences. Then, choose how to improve your trip experience accordingly. Happy traveling!
Photo by Dominik Dancs on Unsplash
