Travel, in general, has changed drastically since the turn of the century, due, in part, to innovations in technology. Indeed, modern tech, in terms of devices and applications, has made travel significantly easier than ever before, making every aspect of the process more efficient. From the basics like being able to navigate with the click of a button or Googling things to do in a second, technological innovations have completely changed the game.
While there are loads of things that have made travel easier, one of the main things is new applications that are specifically focused on travel-related tasks. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a novice planning your first-ever trip, there are several must-have travel apps that are sure to enhance your experience, making it smoother, safer and more enriching.
We think that everybody who decides to embark on adventures abroad should have the opportunity to make the experience as seamless, fun and safe as possible, so we’re going to share with you our list of essential travel apps that every modern globetrotter should consider downloading.
- Google Maps
Google Maps has become an absolutely indispensable tool for any traveller. Indeed, it’s more than just a navigation app – these days, it provides real-time GPS navigation, traffic conditions and public transport information, making it easy as pie to figure out how to get from point A to point B in a completely unfamiliar destination.
But it’s about more than getting around. These days, Google Maps also provides information on restaurants, shops, bars and so much more. As a bonus, the app now offers the option of downloading offline maps, helping you keep tabs on where you are and where you’re going even when you lose connection, which can be super handy in foreign countries.
- Skyscanner
Skyscanner is a great tool for budget-conscious travellers, helping you find the most cost-effective flight deals. It searches millions of flights from over 1,200 different sources to find the cheapest and most convenient options for you.
Furthermore, Skyscanner also provides options for hotels and car rentals, making it a comprehensive travel planning tool.
- Airbnb
Airbnb is pretty well known now, but it’s still just as useful as ever in helping you find reliable and affordable accommodation. It offers unique lodging options, from luxury villas to cosy apartments, catering to a large range of budgets and preferences.
The app is super user-friendly, allowing you to search for accommodation options based on different factors, including location, amenities and price, ensuring that you’ll find an appropriate place to stay.
- Duolingo
When you’re travelling to a country that speaks a language foreign to your own, it can create a significant barrier between you and the locals. This app offers a way to make things easier for you by providing short, interactive lessons in over 30 different languages, allowing you to lar basic phrases and vocab.
Whether you’re just brushing up on your Spanish or learning Japanese from scratch, Duolingo is a handy tool for effective communication while you’re spending time abroad.
- TripIt
TripIt is an application that is centred on organisation, allowing you to store and manage your travel details in one place. By forwarding confirmation emails to the app, it automatically creates a master itinerary for your trip that you can access anywhere, anytime. This will include your flight details, car rentals, restaurant reservations and hotel bookings, all neatly organised into one app.
- Lounge Buddy
Ideal for travellers who frequently embark on long journeys, LoungeBuddy provides you with access to airport lounges all over the world. The app allows you to book access to lounges regardless of your airline or class of travel, giving you access to Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages and comfortable seating, making your experience far more pleasant.
- Google Translate
Google Translate has been around for a long time, but it’s still a must-have app for overcoming language barriers. It allows you to make instant translations between 108 languages. It also has an offline mode so that even if you don’t have an internet connection, you’ll still be able to use it as a travel aid if you’re desperate.
- Rome2rio
Rome2rio is designed to be able to help you navigate public transport and other transport options. All you have to do is enter two destinations – the location of your departure and your destination – and the app will provide you with various travel options. Depending on the journey, it’ll include things like flights, buses, trains, ferries, car rentals and more. It also estimates the cost and duration of the journeys, helping you make informed decisions about your trip.
- XE Currency
An important part of travelling is effectively managing your finances, whether you’re working with a tight budget or have more money to spend. XE Currency helps you stay on top of exchange rates, providing live rates and allowing you to convert any currency.
In addition, the app provides you with historical charts and rate alerts, so if you really want to get the best possible deals, you’ll be able to exchange money or make international purchases at the perfect times. It’s also useful for playing on your mobile at sites like Big Dollar casino, as you can check how much you’re winning if it’s not in your usual currency.
- PackPoint
For some, packing is an absolute nightmare, and the thought of forgetting something at home is particularly daunting. Well, PackPoint will help put your mind at ease by creating customised packing lists based on your destination, planned activities and travel dates. The app considers the length of your stay, the weather forecast and more to ensure you’ll have everything you need.
Make Your Travel Experience That Much Easier
By simply downloading these applications, you’ll be making your travel experience a whole lot easier, and you’re bound to be able to avoid a plethora of potential problems and bumps in the road. So, even if you don’t necessarily think you’re going to need the assistance, you may as well just download these apps anyway – you never know when you may get lost or have to communicate with someone who doesn’t speak a word of your language!
