Although most travel-specific digital services already have mobile-friendly websites, the dedicated utility of apps makes it easier to short-cut all that extra tapping and swiping and get you the information you need—from current weather conditions to transportation advice—even when you don’t have service. Apps for smartphones and tablets can be useful both before you leave and while you're traveling. Most devices are preloaded with apps that can come in handy on a trip (such as an alarm clock, compass, calculator, weather, and so on). But you can greatly extend your device's usefulness by downloading additional tools, such as restaurant reviews, translators, and transportation apps.
Here, the 11 travel apps that might be useful for your trip.
1. Airbnb
Whether you're looking to rent a room, a house, or an entire hacienda, you can search for accommodations in your desired location. The app lets you filter through photos and reviews, as well as sort by amenities—like a pool or washing machine. Plus, a local host can provide insight about great dining spots.
2. Citymapper
It helps travelers find the speediest route to their destination, providing the fastest routes and step-by-step instructions on where to find the nearest bus and train stations. You’ll be able to see when the next arrivals will be at each of these locations, while real-time routing means you’ll get updates every minute. The app also has a chat feature that allows you to update friends and family on where you are in real time.
3. Google Translate
Probably the most popular of any language service, Google Translate is constantly innovating. Their typed translation feature supports 103 different languages, 52 of which continue to work offline (which is perfect for your off-the-grid travel plans).
The real zinger is its ever-expanding Word Lens feature, which prompts users to point their phone camera at a nearby sign or piece of text. Word Lens then transforms the original image with an AR text overlay in the user’s preferred language.
4. Kayak
The beauty of KAYAK is that it aggregates the best fares from most airlines, allowing you to filter flight options based on your airline preference and departure times, while easily changing dates and destinations. You can also find deals on car rentals and hotels.
5. Nike Training Club
Getting the chance to hit the gym can be tough while you're traveling, but with this app, you’ll feel like you have a personal trainer right in your pocket. That's because with Nike Training Club, you can access over 160 free workouts from Nike Master Trainers and celebrities like Kevin Hart, Serena Williams, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Audio and video clips help you make sure you're on top of your technique while personalized training plans will keep you on track, whether you miss a day of training or want to increase the challenge.
6. PackPoint
It takes the hassle out of packing by creating a customized list of what you’ll need for your getaway.
Enter your destination, travel dates, length of stay, and the activities you plan to do there (whether these include hiking, swimming, or exploring with family), and the app will create a custom packing list you can save for future use. Besides checking weather conditions for you, the app also allows users to share their lists with fellow travelers.
7. Skyscanner
Skyscanner's "everywhere" feature allows you to look for surprising destinations simply by sorting by your budget and your travel timeframe. For example, you may think Europe will be out of your price-range, but this feature could make the trip possible.
8. Tripadvisor
TripAdvisor is a standout amongst the best online sources for travelers. One can swiftly examine several audios, videos, reviews, opinions, or anything related to your trip. The app gives you choices for bars, hotels, airlines, restaurants, and so on. You can use TripAdvisor’s Near Me function to check out the reviewed closeby places.
The best elements, that the app brings to the table, are the number of countries it supports, and that it plays the role of a guide for every traveler.
9. TripIt
TripIt is known for its simplicity in helping you create a travel itinerary. Simply forward your confirmation emails (like your hotel and flight reservations or your rental car reservation) and TripIt will create one large itinerary to help you stay organized with all of your plans.
With real-time alerts, you’ll be on top of knowing if your flight is delayed or canceled, with a flight finder to help you book a new option should a cancelation occur.
10. Waze
Another good app for the road, Waze gives you community-based data on traffic jams and information so that you can find points of interest like the cheapest gas stations and the fastest routes to your destination. Live maps include voice-guided navigation to easily guide you.
11. WeatherBug
Whether you’re looking at what to pack before your trip or what to do during, you’ll want a good weather app to stay up to date. WeatherBug provides forecasts of millions of locations around the world, with current, hourly, and 10-day forecast options.
It also has different weather maps that range from lightning and wind to pressure and humidity. You’ll also be able to stay alert on hurricane forecasts and get lifestyle forecasts that will let you know if weather conditions will affect incidents like sports games and workouts.
