travel app questions

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Your 11 Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions—Answered

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

As experts and media spokespeople, the editors at SmarterTravel get asked a lot of travel questions. How early should you book? Which booking sites have the cheapest fares? What’s the best way to avoid bag fees?

The good news is that we have answers. From pinpointing the best day of the week for booking airfare to selecting the best destination for your next trip, here are solutions to some of your most common travel questions.

How Far in Advance Should I Book?

Truth be told, airfare prices—which fluctuate constantly—are impossible to predict. However, there are a few strategies that will guide you to a good deal and minimize your risk of overpaying.

For domestic travel, you’ll typically find the best fares one to two months before your trip. For international itineraries, you’ll often want to start searching for fares a bit further in advance, especially if your dates are firm or you’re traveling at a busy time of year. Add an extra month or two for peak travel times like holidays or major events. Some destinations, such as Disney World during spring break or popular beach spots in August, require even more advance planning, so do your homework.

To help you figure out when to jump on a fare, set up airfare alerts through sites like Airfarewatchdog (SmarterTravel’s sister site) or smartphone apps like Hopper ( iOS | Android ). You can put in your targeted trip dates and itinerary, and you’ll be notified when the fare drops.

How Can I Find the Best Travel Deal?

We’d love to point you definitively to a single booking site that always has the lowest possible airfares and hotel rates, but, unfortunately, that site doesn’t exist—and shopping around is always required. It’s best to check multiple types of sites before you book, including the provider’s own website as well as online travel agencies (think Expedia and Orbitz ) and metasearch sites (like Kayak and SmarterTravel’s parent company, TripAdvisor ).

To help you find the best sites to check, see the following lists:

• The 12 Best Flight Search Sites for Booking Cheap Airfare
• The 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites
• The 14 Best Car Rental Booking Sites
• The 10 Best Sites to Book a Cruise
• The 8 Best Travel Package Sites for Booking a Cheap Vacation
• The 9 Best Vacation Rental Sites for Travelers

One tip to keep in mind: The more flexible you are, the better the deals will be. Moving your trip a few months from a destination’s peak season to its shoulder season, for example, often means lower prices and smaller crowds. Flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday rather than a Friday or Sunday can also save you money. For more information, see The Best and Worst Days to Fly .

How Can I Avoid Fees?

Yes, travel fees are pervasive and have wormed their way into every facet of travel, including flights, hotels, and rental cars. The good news is that many can be avoided. When it comes to flying, look for airlines that don’t charge fees for common services like baggage: For example, Southwest allows two checked bags for free, and some airlines will waive bag fees for frequent flyers or travelers who carry their branded credit cards. For more ideas, see 7 Smart Ways to Bypass Baggage Fees .

Many hotel fees can be avoided if you simply say no to certain services. In other words, don’t touch the minibar or make in-room calls (buy your own snacks and use your cell phone instead). Other charges, such as resort fees , are trickier. It’s best to find out about the charge in advance and book with another hotel, or ask the hotel manager to remove it—he or she might say no, but it never hurts to ask.

When renting a car, read the fine print. Look for easily avoidable fees like early-return and fuel charges. Also, most agents will pressure you into buying a collision damage waiver (CDW), but you might already have collision coverage through your credit card or your own auto insurance policy. Always check in advance.

What Are My Rights When Your Flight Is Delayed or Canceled?

When you find yourself faced with a flight delay or cancellation, know that your rights vary depending on whether the situation is the airline’s fault (such as a mechanical delay) or due to some uncontrollable outside force (like a hurricane or winter storm ). Every airline’s policy varies, but most state that for delays or cancellations within the airline’s control, passengers are entitled to be rebooked on the next available flight, possibly transferred to another carrier, or to receive a refund for the unused portion of the trip. Some lines will also provide meal vouchers, hotel stays, and ground transportation at their discretion.

When the situation is beyond the airline’s control, a refund is all that most airlines promise. However, for major storms, airlines have set a precedent for preemptively canceling flights in advance so you’re not stranded at the airport, and they will allow you to rebook within a specific time frame without penalty.

To learn more, see Flight-Cancellation Rights: The Ultimate Guide and Flight Delays: What to Do and How to Prevent Them .

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

To buy or not to buy: That is the question when it comes to travel insurance . It all depends on risk and your tolerance for it. In general, if you’re taking a relatively short trip and haven’t paid a fortune for it, you probably don’t need it. Plus, most airlines—and hotels, for that matter—will give you a refund or allow you to rebook when there’s a widespread storm or incident.

However, if you have put down significant nonrefundable deposits, are traveling at a risky time of year (such as hurricane season ), have a potential medical condition, or are traveling to remote places where hospitals are scarce, travel insurance could be a good idea.

If you do opt insurance, make sure you know what’s included in your policy; most are very specific and won’t allow coverage to kick in once a storm is predicted or if you have a preexisting medical condition. You can also buy a policy that will allow you to cancel for any reason, but those usually come with a higher premium.

How Do I Know When a Deal Is Really a Deal?

Sadly, not all travel deals are created equal. And while some are bona fide, others are nothing more than gimmicks, if not downright scams. Your best defense is to take the time to fully research a deal before handing over your credit card number.

First, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable supplier, especially when it comes to tour operators and promoters. If you haven’t heard of the company, check with the Better Business Bureau or United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) to make sure it is sound. Look for online reviews of the company on sites such as TripAdvisor or TrustPilot . Also, always compare prices across multiple suppliers. A deal might look good at first glance, but you may be able to beat the price elsewhere.

When it comes to hotel packages, price out inclusions like gift baskets or spa services separately to determine whether it’s cheaper to go a la carte. For example, many hotels offer individual room rates that are way cheaper than what you’d pay for the room plus the extras in a package. Remember: You can bring your own Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries (likely higher-quality ones, too).

Lastly, always read the fine print, with a particular eye on blackout dates and other restrictions. You don’t want to get a deal that you can’t even use.

How Do I Score an Upgrade?

Everyone wants to vault to the front of the airplane cabin or that penthouse suite in the hotel, but most of us feel that an upgrade is out of reach. Not necessarily so. The best way to get upgraded is to join a loyalty program. While it’s hard for many leisure travelers to accrue enough miles for a free first- or business-class ticket, basic upgrades usually require fewer miles. For hotels and rental cars, points generally add up more quickly and you can get additional free perks just for being a member.

Another way to land a better seat is to look for deals; some airlines will launch short-term sales on premium seats. For more information, see First Class for Free: How to Get an Airline Upgrade .

With hotels, arriving late in the day can increase your chances of a better room, since the hotel might have vacant rooms to fill (and can subsequently open up a cheaper room for another paying customer). Also, at check-in, mention if you are celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or an anniversary. Check out How to Get a Hotel Upgrade for Free to learn more.

At the rental car desk, asking for an upgrade might work, but make sure you’ve weighed your options: A larger car could mean higher gas costs, which can quickly negate any benefit. In any situation, even with the airlines, it never hurts to ask; when you do, dress nicely, be specific with your request, and above all, be polite.

What Can I Bring on the Plane?

This is such a complicated topic that SmarterTravel has a whole airport security FAQ to cover it. But here are the basics: In your carry-on, you can bring a single clear, quart-size plastic bag of liquid and gel items (such as shampoo, insect repellent, and sunscreen) in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less. If you need to bring larger quantities, you can put them in your checked bag—just make sure they’re well sealed to prevent messy spills. Exceptions to this rule include prescription medications, breast milk, and baby formula, which you can carry on in larger amounts.

The TSA has strict rules for items such as scissors, razors, sharp objects, and even wrapped gifts. To learn more, see the FAQ above or visit the TSA’s website .

What Should I Pack?

Speaking of complicated topics … where do we begin? Of course, the answer depends on where you’re going and for how long, but you’ll want to start with SmarterTravel’s Ultimate Packing List , which has you covered with the basics you’ll need for just about any type of trip. If you want more specific advice, consider these lists:

• The Essential Beach Packing List
• The Essential Carry-on Bag Packing List
• The Ultimate Holiday Packing List
• The Ultimate Cruise Packing List
• The Essential International Packing List
• How to Pack for an African Safari
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

You’ll also want to check out Ingenious Packing Tips Every Traveler Should Know , which includes information on how to pack for the TSA’s requirements, tips on saving space, a discussion of whether you should roll or fold your clothes, and clever tips from SmarterTravel readers. Trying to avoid overpacking? See A Traveler’s Guide to Minimalist Packing .

I’m Unhappy with My Seatmate(s) on the Plane. What Can I Do?

SmarterTravel readers often write in with travel questions about airplane seating dilemmas. “I have severe allergies to animals. What are my rights if I am sitting by someone with an animal?” asks one reader.

“I was recently seated next to a large person whose body overhung the armrest and crowded me,” writes another. “What can be done in this situation?”

Generally speaking, your best bet is to approach a flight attendant discreetly and ask if there are any available seats to which you could be moved. In the case of animal allergies, even if no seats are free, the airline staff might be able to find a non-allergic passenger who’s willing to switch with you. Bring up your concerns early—because once the plane has taken off, the flight attendants will have much less flexibility.

For more information, see the following resources:

• What You Need to Know About Flying with a Service or Emotional Support Animal
• Airline Passenger of Size Policies

What Are the Best Travel Destinations, and How Do I Know If They’re Safe?

There’s no single right answer to the first part of this question. It really depends on factors like your personal travel style and when you plan to travel. But there are a few tricks to identifying a great hot spot.

If affordability is a priority, look for destinations with new airline routes or hotels; providers will often release introductory rates at a discount, and you can be among the first to check things out. Additionally, keep an eye out for destinations making a comeback from natural disasters or political unrest; it can take time for tourists to return, even after the place is safe and open for business again, and the low demand can mean great deals for those who are willing to visit.

If you want to go where the excitement is, look for locales with big events, such as major sporting competitions, festivals, and museum openings. Check with the local tourism bureau to see what’s on; you might even stumble upon corresponding deals and packages.

SmarterTravel frequently publishes inspirational lists of places to travel for just about every interest. Check out Top Travel Destinations for 2020 or browse the site’s Destinations section to learn more.

As for safety, your first step is to research your destination on the U.S. State Department’s website . Here you’ll find important travel advisories and information about crime, health concerns, and other safety issues for every country around the world. Pay attention to the details before writing off an entire destination; it may be perfectly safe as long as you steer clear of certain problem areas. Keep an eye on news headlines in the lead-up to your trip so you’re aware of any last-minute issues.

If you have specific concerns, consider posting questions on travel forums such as TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet . Destination experts and locals can often offer up-to-the-minute updates from the ground.

Traveling? Consider Bringing These:

Shop the look.

Sambucus Elderberry Gummies

Weekend Bag

Tea Tree Oil Active Wipes

More from smartertravel:.

• Ultralight Travel: How to Pack Light Every Time
• 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Flight
• The Worst Seats on a Plane (and How to Avoid Them)

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Anne Banas and Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Southern Italy: 8-Night Tour, Incl. Naples,...

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Shop and Save with Country Inns...

Patricia Magaña

Trending on SmarterTravel

The 25 Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions—Answered

By CNT Editors

What are the most surreal places to visit?

Some of the strangest places on earth are also the most sublime : from the UFO-like dragon's blood trees in Yemen to a rainbow-colored hot spring in Yellowstone to a bridge in Germany that looks like a leftover prop from Lord of the Rings.

Why do you need to turn off all your electronic devices before an airplane takes off and lands?

We've been taught to fear the interference of our portable devices and an airplane's sensitive electronic systems. And despite being told to turn off our darn phones, four out of ten passengers, it seems, disregard these warnings , since there's little hard evidence behind claims that electromagnetic emissions from devices can muddle airplane computers. Still, there's ample anecdotal corroboration, like the flight where a 30-degree navigation error was rectified simply by asking a passenger to turn off a portable DVD player. The issue is still being debated, so if in doubt, flick that Off switch. We might, eventually, long for the days when a chatty seatmate couldn’t make an hour-long phone call.

Do you have to be rich to travel the world?

The beauty of travel is that it’s accessible to everyone, in some form. You don't have to go far to experience a new culture. Plus there are several ways to make most flights affordable, whether by being flexible , searching on new websites like Skypicker and Fareness , or just by planning ahead. Know the best time to book a flight : 57 days in advance for domestic flights, 117 for international. Then again, you could just make traveling the world your 9-to-5.

What are some common items savvy travelers bring with them (that less-savvy travelers don’t)?

Don’t forget a small power strip—ideal for sharing a crowded outlet in an airport, and a simple way to keep all devices close by once at a hotel. (Combine that with a Zolt —which powers a laptop and two devices with a charger the size of a lipstick—and it’s even handier.) Keep a photograph of your luggage and passport on your smartphone; lose either of them, and you’ll be grateful for the reference. Pack a scarf—always. And since calling Nespresso coffee is an insult to baristas everywhere, the best in-room alternate is the Aeropress , a nifty gizmo that’s portable, light, and makes killer morning joe almost anywhere.

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

What’s it really like to be a travel writer?

"For every beautiful beach hideaway, there’s been a missed flight or delay; for every delicious meal, a nasty case of 'Delhi belly," says Traveler contributing editor Krisanne Fordham in her story on this very topic . In short: Traveling for a living is equal parts rewarding and challenging, satisfying and smelly. It teaches you to live—not linger, but really live—outside your comfort zone, to always pack a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, and to never check your bag again.

What are some things airline pilots won’t tell you?

There’s no better Bible of in-flight secrets than Air Babylon , a rollicking romp through 24 hours at an airport compiling anonymous tell-alls from a raft of staff. One sample tidbit: Aviation law decrees that after an onboard death (more common than you’d imagine), planes must land at the nearest airport. No airline wants to pay fines for being delayed, so no one is officially declared dead on board until the plane is landing at its destination.

Where are the best places to travel alone?

Well, we certainly don't recommend Tahiti, where there's an all-but-constant reminder at every juncture that you are alone , a sad friendless figure lurking amid the glowing honeymooners. There are a few places, though, where visiting solo is a bonus, not a burden: notably cruises, yoga retreats, and treks across Europe.

Who makes the best travel bags?

There’s more to in-flight baggage than a boring black rollaboard. Here are some ideas for every kind of trip , including a dapper retro case from Globetrotter worthy of David Livingstone .

Is India a good travel destination?

One of the best in the world, with a vast variety of destinations clustered together in a single country, from the Miami-esque glitz of Mumbai to the Raj-era holdovers in Kolkata, the parched landscapes and Tuscany-like city states in Rajasthan or the quiet backwaters of Kerala. Here’s some inspiration for planning the perfect first-timer’s trip , or you can pore over the site for our India-based sister magazine.

How do you pack a suit?

Don’t wear that suit if you want it to arrive wrinkle-free. Instead, heed the advice of our style editor, Jayna Maleri: "Hold your jacket in front of you, with the front facing you, and fold length-wise in half away from you (so the buttons are on the fold and the shoulders are touching). Then carefully turn one shoulder inside out, and wrap it over the other shoulder (you'll know you're on the right track if the lining is now on the outside). Then fold the jacket one more time, in half width-wise. Fold your trousers carefully in half (use their natural crease as your guide), then place the folded jacket on top of them, near the knees. Fold the pants carefully around the jacket, and pack the bundle in the bottom of your luggage. Follow these steps and we promise, it won’t need a frantic steaming in the hotel shower."

What’s the best way to sleep on a plane?

Some seasoned travelers might swear by that knockout cocktail known as an Ambientini (a sleeping pill with a vodka chaser). There are better, safer ways , though—including pre-flight exercise and a few drops of lavender essential oil.

What are some of the best travel locations that most people have not heard of?

We’re all keen to explore countries and destinations that are unspoiled or unexpected, even if we’re probably still subconsciously following trends. ( This year , Myanmar, Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, and Sri Lanka are some of our planned far-flung getaways.) But we'd also like to reframe this question: What are some of the best destinations you haven't heard of in well-known, heavily trafficked cities? Paris, perhaps, or London? Consider somewhere reasonably central, but slightly under the radar—say, Canal St. Martin in Paris and Shoreditch in London. They're easy to reach and a offer a wonderful "wow"moment of discovery.

What are the best airport hacks?

Download the GateGuru app before your next trip: It shows maps and amenities for any terminal, so you can better plan where to eat lunch or whether you can arrive early for a quick manicure. Don't forget that Zolt charger we mentioned earlier, so your phone doesn't die before takeoff. And, of course, sign up for Global Entry.

If I visit your country, what’s the one meal I shouldn’t miss?

It’s the same answer everywhere: breakfast. No meal is more distinctive or diverse. While sandwiches for lunch might be a global go-to, breakfast is still gloriously localized, whether you're eating bird’s nest–like pancakes filled with spicy curry in Sri Lanka or flaky, just-baked croissants in France. In Russia, however, it’s probably best just to skip it.

How do you get a flight upgrade?

The days of relying on an amenable attitude and a smile to score a cushy seat are, sadly, over. But some strategies still work : First, fly often and use miles whenever you can. And never underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned complaint when an airline overbooks your flight.

What’s it like to quit your job, grab a backpack, and travel the world?

Tons of people dream about leaving their jobs to travel, and while that semi-permanent vacation can often be exactly what you've imagined, you're guaranteed to encounter a few surprises—not all of them pleasant. Here's the truth—and the best way to prepare yourself—from a woman who did it .

NYC or San Fran?

As New Yorkers, we're biased in favor of bagels, de Blasio and the Bronx (and it seems like our readers agree ). We’ll admit it, though: You can spend a killer long weekend in Manhattan or the Bay Area .

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve ever met on a plane?

We can’t match the experience of a guy who met his wife on a plane, but we’ve encountered chatty ex-congressmen keen to tell the real-life story behind a blockbuster movie. And if you're lucky, you get to sit next to Bill Murray. Then again, the most interesting people aren’t necessarily fellow passengers but the crew: wedged onto a jump seat, staring straight at you, it’s easy enough to strike up casual chatter. We’ll never forget the veteran ex-Pan Ammer who regaled us on and off for an entire flight with stories. It was like a trip to aviation’s Golden Age rather than to California.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?

They’re both a boon to frequent travelers but we’re firm fans of Global Entry , which costs only $15 more than TSA PreCheck and will likely automatically generate the latter most times you check in for a domestic flight.

What’s the best city in the world?

We'll defer to the best experts—our readers. In this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards , the best cities in the world include Budapest and Florence, while stateside, New York is the top big city and the best small city is Charleston, S.C., a long-time favorite.

Which airline is best?

According to our readers, internationally, it remains the perennially beloved Singapore Airlines. Meanwhile, Virgin America has been deemed the best domestic carrier ever since it launched in 2007.

What are the most beautiful beaches in the world?

Antigua may claim to have 365 beaches, one each for every day of the year, but other strips of sand rival the Caribbean island for sheer beauty (we’ll take quality over quantity any time). Here are some suggestions, from an overlooked island in the Philippines to a beach made up of jet black sand in Hawaii.

What are the most beautiful places in the world?

Beauty may be subjective, but who would argue against any of these 50 choices , whether Yemen’s futuristic forest of dragon’s blood trees or the Blue City of Jodhpur?

What are the best apps for travel?

By far the best transit guide ( RIP HopStop ) is CityMapper . It's free, and offers real-time directions via public transport, on foot, or by car plus a plethora of nifty bonuses for a selection of major world cities, from Tokyo to London, New York and even Hamburg. Even if you’re not wondering whether the inbound aircraft will make it on time for your flight, there’s a wondrous joy to watching the crowded skies via another free app, FlightRadar24 . LoungeBuddy (also free) helps with trips to unfamiliar destinations, allowing you to verify what status or access you might have to a refreshment oasis at the airport. We’ve used Postagram several times to send cards from places, like Russia, where they’re hard to find—the app is free and stateside delivery of that personalized keepsake costs just 99 cents apiece.

Where should I go now?

Year-end is full of listicles recommending must-sees for the year ahead—and we’re no exception . Head to Sri Lanka, Colombia, Miami, and yes, back to Paris.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The Best Guide to Mobile Passport Control: Breeze Through the Airport

Jarrod West

Senior Content Contributor

440 Published Articles 1 Edited Article

Countries Visited: 21 U.S. States Visited: 24

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3142 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

What Is Mobile Passport Control?

Which airports use mobile passport control, how to use the mobile passport control app, mobile passport control vs. global entry, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

If you’ve traveled internationally, you have probably seen signs for “Mobile Passport Control” while passing through U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

You might have wondered if you could use that line instead of waiting in the ridiculously long one (with everyone else) to have your passport checked. And the simple answer is yes — you just need to learn how!

Mobile Passport Control can be a great option when returning to the U.S. from another country — but many people have no idea what it is or how to use it. And you’re not alone in your confusion.

This complete guide to Mobile Passport Control will tell you everything you need to know and help you pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection as quickly as possible.

We will explain the program and how you can use it and even show you  why it’s a good idea even if you already have  Global Entry .

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a program authorized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The program is designed to help travelers move more quickly through U.S. Customs and Border Protection checkpoints when returning to the U.S. from an international trip.

You don’t need to have a pen or fill out arrival forms on the plane or in line. All you have to do is download and use the Customs and Border Protection Mobile Passport Control (CBP MPC) app (available for iOS and Android ). The information sent from the app replaces the paper forms passengers typically have to fill out before arrival.

In addition, you can securely store your passport and personal information on the app and use the same information on multiple trips. You can even set up a profile for each family member within a single account, which is especially nice for families with young children .

Hot Tip: The original Mobile Passport app, developed by Airside, still shows on the Apple and Android app store. However, when you click it, you’ll be directed to download the new (as of February 2022) CBP MPC app.

Mobile Passport Control is currently available at 33 U.S. airports, 9 preclearance locations, and 4 cruise ports around the country.

The current airport locations where you can use Mobile Passport Control are below:

• Atlanta (ATL) – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
• Aruba (AUA) – Aruba Queen Beatrix International Airport
• Baltimore (BWI) – Baltimore-Washington International Airport
• Boston (BOS) – Boston Logan International Airport
• Calgary (YYC) – Calgary International Airport
• Charlotte (CLT) – Charlotte Douglas International Airport
• Chicago (ORD) – Chicago O’Hare International Airport
• Dallas (DFW) – Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
• Denver (DEN) – Denver International Airport
• Edmonton (YEG) – Edmonton International Airport
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL) – Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport
• Halifax (YHZ) – Halifax Stanfield International Airport
• Honolulu (HNL) – Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
• Houston (IAH) – George Bush Intercontinental Airport
• Houston (HOU) – William P. Hobby Airport
• Kansas City (MCI) – Kansas City International Airport
• Las Vegas (LAS) – Las Vegas Harry Ried International Airport
• Los Angeles (LAX) – Los Angeles International Airport
• Miami (MIA) – Miami International Airport
• Miami (MSE) – Miami Seaport Cruise Port
• Minneapolis (MSP) – Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport
• Montreal (YUL) – Montreal Trudeau International Airport
• Nassau (NAS) – Nassau Lynden Pindling International Airport
• New York City (JFK) – John F. Kennedy International Airport
• Newark (EWR) – Newark Liberty International Airport
• Oakland (OAK) – Oakland International Airport
• Orlando (MCO) – Orlando International Airport
• Ottawa (YOW) – Ottawa International Airport
• Palm Beach Seaport
• Philadelphia (PHL) – Philadelphia International Airport
• Phoenix (PHX) – Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
• Pittsburgh (PIT) – Pittsburgh International Airport
• Port Everglades Seaport
• Portland (PDX) – Portland International Airport
• Sacramento (SMF) – Sacramento International Airport
• Salt Lake City (SLC) – Salt Lake City International Airport
• San Diego (SAN) – San Diego International Airport
• San Francisco (SFO) – San Francisco International Airport
• San Jose (SJC) – Mineta San Jose International Airport
• San Juan (SJU) – Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport
• San Juan (PUE) – Port of San Juan Cruise Port
• Seattle (SEA) – Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
• Tampa (TPA) – Tampa International Airport
• Toronto (YYZ) – Toronto Pearson International Airport
• Vancouver (YVR) – Vancouver International Airport
• Washington Dulles (IAD) – Dulles International Airpot
• Winnipeg (YWG) – Winnipeg James A Richardson International Airport

You can download the CBP MPC app for free from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store .

As a new user, you’ll need to create a secure profile with your passport information, name, gender, date of birth, and country of citizenship.

To use the service upon arrival in the U.S., open the CBP MPC app. You will be prompted to select your arrival location, take a photo of yourself, and answer a series of required trip and declarations questions.

After submitting the information through the app, you’ll receive an electronic receipt with a QR code, which you’ll present to a CBP official to finalize your entry.

When you return to the U.S. at a participating Mobile Passport Control location, simply follow these steps:

• Open the app and enter all of your passport information (if you don’t already have it saved).
• Answer a few brief questions about your trip.
• Review all of the information about your travel that is showing in the app. Be sure to check that everything is accurate.
• Then, electronically submit your information to Customs and Border Protection.
• Receive an electronic receipt that contains an encrypted QR code(this should take only a few seconds to get).
• Follow the Mobile Passport Control signs, show your passport to the Customs and Border Protection officer, and scan the QR on your receipt.

It’s as easy as that!

Hot Tip: Remember that when you submit information through the Mobile Passport Control app, you are certifying under penalty of law that the information is correct. This is the same as filling out a paper form or answering questions directly from a Border Control officer.

Although Mobile Passport Control has some similar benefits to the Global Entry program , a few key features make each desirable. You can almost think of Mobile Passport Control as a “Global Entry Lite.”

Rather than compare the programs to decide which you should use, let’s look at why you might want to have both at your disposal. Then you can choose whichever has a shorter line when you arrive at the Customs and Border Protection checkpoint.

Global Entry is significantly more difficult to get approved for. It requires an extensive online application, a $100 application fee, a background check, and an in-person interview. Once approved, you must reapply and pay the fee every 5 years.

The extra hassle of signing up does get you a few more perks, though. With Global Entry, you get the added  benefit of TSA PreCheck  to help you breeze through security at the beginning of your trip.

Global Entry also uses a kiosk system that takes care of your declarations, identification match, and even your passport check without waiting in line to talk to someone.

When there is no line for the kiosks, there is no faster way to get through the Customs and Border Protection checkpoint than with Global Entry. However, with many  credit cards refunding the application fee  and most international passengers traveling regularly and valuing the faster checkpoint experience, there are times when you may have to wait in line for a Global Entry kiosk.

Mobile Passport Control may be the way to go in those times or when you’re traveling with family members who don’t have Global Entry. Your trip through the checkpoint will still be significantly faster than going through the regular line, and having your family members pre-registered in your app can make things even quicker.

Hot Tip:  Check out our answers to the top FAQs for more info on Global Entry . 

Mobile Passport Control is a great program that can really shorten the time it takes you to clear Customs and Border Protection when returning to the U.S. As long as you meet the basic requirements to sign up, getting started with Mobile Passport Control is quick and simple, with an easy-to-use app that lets you securely store information for your whole family.

If you don’t want to spend the money or go through the extensive application process for Global Entry, consider Mobile Passport Control. It provides an excellent alternative that makes returning to the U.S. a bit more pleasant.

Even if you already have Global Entry, Mobile Passport Control is free, so there is no reason not to have it set up in case the line is shorter, and it is the better option on arrival.

Download the CBP MPC app today and have Mobile Passport Control ready to go for your next international trip.

Like this Post? Pin it on Pinterest!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mobile passport.

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is a program that allows for expedited entry into the U.S. for qualified U.S. and Canadian citizens. Using the Mobile Passport app allows travelers to submit their passport and declaration information electronically to Customs and Border Protection instead of using the traditional paper form.

Is Mobile Passport Control free?

Yes, Mobile Passport Control is free. There is no cost to use the Mobile Passport service, as long as you have a compatible iOS or Android mobile device.

Can Mobile Passport Control be used in other countries?

Yes, but only at the 3 eligible Canadian preclearance locations. Otherwise, it can only be used at the 31 airports and 4 seaports of entry in the U.S.

Who can use Mobile Passport Control?

Mobile Passport Control can be used by U.S. citizens with a valid U.S. passport and by Canadian citizens with a valid Canadian passport and either a B1 or B2 visa status. You must have the Customs and Border Patrol Mobile Passport Control app (CBP MPC) installed on either an iOS or Android device with Wi-Fi or mobile internet service at the time of entry.

What is the Mobile Passport Control app?

The Mobile Passport Control app is used to communicate with Customs and Border Protection, electronically submitting passport and declaration information, allowing travelers to forego the traditional paper forms when entering the U.S. from another country. Traveler information can be stored in the Mobile Passport Control app for use on future trips.

Was this page helpful?

About Jarrod West

Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 6 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Season

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

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Get One: Tornado Alert Apps
• The Best Tech Gifts Under $100

The 9 Best Travel Apps for 2024

Plan. Book. Pack. Go!

• University of Colorado at Denver
• Colorado State University
• Payment Services

A great travel app can help you get organized. From booking reservations to managing them, from packing to planning, from eating to paying to communicating to getting around, these are our picks for the best travel apps to help you plan your next adventure.

Best for Travel Planning: Kayak

Researching prices is fast and easy.

Finds independent hotels and short term rentals you may not see otherwise.

Book almost any travel method.

App is user-friendly.

Can't take advantage of loyalty programs you may belong to.

The award-winning travel app Kayak allows you to search for flights, hotels, and car rentals. The clean interface gives you a full list of possible options, including reduced hacker fares, where you book outgoing and returning flights with two separate airlines. Set filters to find exactly what you want quickly and easily.

Not sure if now's the right time to pull the trigger? The app answers that question by indicating when prices will go up.

Not a fan of Kayak? Here are our other favorite travel planning apps .

Download For:

Best for Packing Help: PackPoint

Configure trip lists according to your specific plans.

Simple, easy-to-navigate interface.

Hide irrelevant items and add new items to your list.

Must upgrade to Premium to create custom packing lists.

A delight for anyone who hates packing, PackPoint tells you exactly what to bring. First, enter where you're going, when, and for how long. Choose business or leisure, then select the activities you'll be doing. The app develops a list based on your information and expected weather. Check items off as you pack, or swipe to remove ones you don't need.

The paid-for premium version ($2.99) removes ads, gives you custom activities and packing templates, and integrates TripIt and Evernote.

Best for Last-Minute Hotel Deals: HotelTonight

Book last-minute rooms at great prices.

Browse photos and ratings to get a feel for the hotel.

Can't select your room type.

Prices don't include taxes and fees.

Whether you're a seat-of-your-pants type traveler or want a backup plan in case your reservations don't work out, try HotelTonight. Tell the app where you want to stay and watch the deals appear on your screen. Tap one to get additional details. A few more taps to pay, and you have a room for the night.

You can make reservations further in advance, but the longer you wait, the better the deals are.

Best for Navigating: Citymapper

Find out which method is fastest (for example, train vs. Lyft).

Know the cost of your chosen route ahead of time.

See preferred routes to avoid the rain.

Not all transportation services offer updates through Citymapper.

Not all cities are in the app's coverage area.

Navigating a new city can be maddening if you don't know how to use the local transportation systems. With Citymapper, you'll get around like a local in no time, exploring and enjoying your new surroundings.

Pick your city, then choose a location or your preferred mode of transportation. Citymapper gives you complete, clear instructions on how to reach your destination hassle-free, whether walking, taking an Uber, or traveling by train.

Be sure to switch to the right city before downloading the app.

Best for Travel Tips: Foursquare City Guide

Find great places to eat and drink.

Tips and advice from members of a global community.

Keep a history of the places you've been.

Use of GPS can deplete your battery.

This app makes finding somewhere to eat or a fun activity easy. Enter the area you want to search and what you're looking for, such as breakfast, nightlife, or things to do. Use the flexible filters (distance, price, open now, and places you've been) to narrow your search. Tap your selection to see additional details, including ratings and photos. If you like the location, add it to a custom list.

Best for Finding Your Way Around: Google Maps

Maps for over 220 countries and territories.

Information on hundreds of millions of businesses.

Real-time updates help you beat traffic.

Search and navigate with offline maps.

Some features aren't available in all countries.

Google Maps is great for finding your way around in your city or anywhere in the world. Get the best route with automatic rerouting based on live traffic updates and road closures. Find information about businesses, such as if a restaurant is open. If you're somewhere with spotty internet, download an area map in advance and use it to navigate.

Best Currency Converter: XE Currency

Reliable exchange rates and charts.

Monitor up to 10 currencies.

Access live rates for every world currency and precious metal, including Bitcoin.

Perform global money transfers.

Need the Pro version if you want to monitor more than 10 currencies.

This currency converter and money-transfer tool allows you to determine exchange rates quickly and easily. Type an amount in one denomination and see the results in as many other denominations as you want. To add another currency, tap the editing icon and search for the one that corresponds to the place you'll be visiting.

Use the charts function to see how currency rates fluctuate throughout the day. The app's global transfer function allows you to send and receive money worldwide.

Best Language Translator: iTranslate

Translations are available in more than 100 languages.

Phrasebook has more than 250 predefined phrases.

Switch between dialects and voices.

Must subscribe to the Pro version to unlock some of the most useful features, such as offline translation mode.

Gone are the days of fumbling with a paper dictionary as you try to assemble sentences in a language you don't know. Use this app to type or speak your sentence and get the translation in your chosen language. A handy expansion feature lets you display the result on your screen to show to locals you're trying to communicate with. The iTranslate Phrasebook is a convenient way of looking up and learning common expressions and questions.

Best Food Finder: Zomato

Search by restaurant, cuisine, or dish.

Browse restaurant menus, photos, user ratings, and reviews.

Book a table through the app.

Find restaurants around you in Map View.

The service is not available in most areas.

Perfect for traveling foodies, this app has it all, including recommendations for a nice lunch out, trending restaurants, nightlife picks, delivery services, and where to get food to go—looking for something specific? Search for a dish or ingredient. When you find something yummy, tap it for a map, menu, reviews, and photos. When you're finished, bookmark, share, and review your experience.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day

• The 9 Best Travel Planner Apps of 2024
• The 20 Best Free iPhone Apps of 2024
• The 10 Best Road Trip Planner Apps for 2024
• The 5 Best GPS Apps for iPhone of 2024
• The 9 Best Summer Apps of 2024
• The 20 Best Free iPad Apps of 2024
• The 7 Best Google Maps Alternatives of 2024
• The 13 Best Android Auto Apps of 2024
• The 10 Best Apple Watch Apps of 2024
• The 17 Best Android Tablet Apps of 2024
• The 9 Best Astrology Apps for 2024
• The 10 Best Car Apps of 2024
• The 5 Best Free Language Learning Apps of 2024
• The 17 Best Wear OS Apps of 2024
• The 7 Best Traffic Apps of 2024
• The 9 Best Running Apps for iPhone in 2024

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Skip the Lines with Global Entry

Apply Now!  

Are You Eligible for Global Entry?

Find Out Now!

Are You Ready to Schedule an Interview?

Find a Local Enrollment Center

• Trusted Traveler Programs

Global Entry

-->trusted traveler program enrollment -->.

Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports .

At airports, program members proceed to the Global Entry lanes where processing technology will be used to expedite the members by capturing a photo to verify their membership. Once the photo has been captured, the member will receive on-screen instructions and proceed to a CBP officer who will confirm that you have successfully completed the process.

Travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrollment. If a traveler was unable to schedule an interview at an Enrollment Center prior to their international travel, they have an option to complete their interview via Enrollment on Arrival upon their arrival to the United States.

Another upcoming processing technology option for travelers will be the Global Entry Mobile App. This app will enable members to validate their arrival to the U.S. on their iOS or Android device prior to entering the Federal Inspection Services area.

While Global Entry’s goal is to speed travelers through the process, members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States. Any violation of the program’s terms and conditions will result in the appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler’s membership privileges.

Global Entry Benefits

• No processing lines
• No paperwork
• Access to expedited entry
• Available at major U.S. airports
• Reduced wait times

The Full Guide to Travel App Development: Revenue Models, Features, Cost

Updated 05 Jun 2023

When it comes to planning a trip, travelers rely on their mobiles more than ever. According to Travelport Digital , 80% of travelers used a mobile app to research trips in 2018.

So travel app development is a perspective niche to bring investments in. But if you want to build a big-time travel app, you need to carefully choose the business model, features, and decide on the budget.

In this guide, we’re sorting out travel mobile app development – from how they work to how to make a successful travel app. And how much it’s going to cost you.

Let’s get started.

How Travel Apps Work

Agencies create travel apps for much more than listing hotels and restaurants. Still, providing useful and engaging travel content remains their best lead generation channel.

The content travel companies rely on often includes:

• travel guides
• reviews and ratings from travelers
• exclusive tours

By developing a travel app, companies offer a more convenient tool to search for tickets and check their cost, rent cars, and so on.

Same with accommodation search and booking. With extensive filtering options, reviews system, and other travel app features, users won’t spend tons of time choosing the right place.

Industry giants like Expedia and TripAdvisor allow doing all that from a single app.

Finally, some platforms work with upsales – they make custom propositions to clients, according to their preferences. Like offering specific tours, insurances, and additional services.

Travel app design concept by Cleveroad

How Travel Apps Make Money

Next, we’re finding out what keeps travel apps like Expedia, TripAdvisor, Booking.com afloat.

There are three revenue models for tourism app development:

• merchant model (Expedia)
• commission fees (Booking.com)
• advertising (TripAdvisor)

Merchant Model

Expedia makes most of it's profit following the merchant model. Their gross bookings increased to $28.3 billion in the second quarter of 2019.

Here’s how it works: the platform buys hotel rooms and then resells them to guests. As Expedia rents rooms in bulk, hotels can offer the cheapest deals to it's customers.

Besides, merchants bundles often extend to airfares, car rentals, and other services.

For example

Expedia buys 100 rooms at $50 per night instead of $90 (the best available rate). Customers are happy as they get rooms cheaper than the hotel initially offers, hosts – because of the number of rooms booked and the income.

Commission Fees

Small hotels don't have advertising budgets as huge chains do. This means their best chance to attract travelers is to get listed on large resources like Booking.com.

In turn, companies that created travel apps may set commission rates from each transaction. For instance, Booking.com charges from 10% to 30% of each booking made.

Want to repeat Booking.com’s success? Check how in ' How to Create a Hotel Booking App ' guide.

Booking.com sets the rate at $100 and, if sold, the guest pays, $100 but the hotel gets only $75. The remaining $25 goes to the platform as the commission fee for customer service, marketing, and so on.

Advertising

The advertising model is the most affordable one and works best for small agents who want to build a travel app.

You can show relevant ads like hotels, tour operators, airline ads, and more. Or sell advertising space to firms in the relevant industry.

TripAdvisor is driven by it.

It earns money from flights and hotels by charging cost-per-click to the OTA and supplier sites. In plain words, they get paid for redirecting the customer to third-party websites.

Sure, the listing doesn't guarantee a boost of bookings (after all, reviews and rates remain the same). But a hotel ranked last can greatly increase it's traffic with the sponsored placement.

TripAdvisor offers sponsored listings options and allows paying hotels to show up in the top of users' search results operating on a cost-per-click basis. Clicks on these sponsored listings cost around $1-$3.

Core Features of a Travel App

How to start a travel app development ? By picking the MVP features.

Here are the must-haves most travel apps share:

• Sign-up/profile management
• Searching system
• Chat with hosts
• Notifications

Let’s take a more detailed look at each.

1. Registration and Profile Management

Sing up is the core feature of any application, including travel apps.

It would be great if you allow users to browse the app without logging in each time. But when it comes to bookings, saving payment details, or chatting with the host, registration can’t be skipped.

Most platforms use email/phone number+password combination for sign up.

But social login is also a must-have for travel app development. It allows reusing login details from social media accounts (like Google, Twitter, or Facebook) in just a few taps. The faster, the better for user experience.

Hosts should also have personal accounts in the app to list their property.

In terms of safety, they shouldn’t skip the registration step at all. Plus, becoming the platform’s partner usually takes more time than plain user registration. At least hosts need to provide documents confirming their ownership, agree to the terms, and so on.

Travel app UI: registration panel by Cleveroad

2. Search and Filters

Any travel app should help users to find a place to stay. According to their preferences, the number of people, budget, dates, and so on. The more complex filters users have, the more precise result they get.

Here are the primary filters users should have access to:

• Number of people
• Additional services (parking, Wi-Fi, and so on)

3. Listing Information

Let's imagine users have found a hotel or a restaurant according to their preferences. Naturally, they’d want to find out more about the place.

Usually, travelers get access to the following information:

• Available booking dates
• Description
• Customers' reviews
• Rules and cancelation policies

Another good idea is to show listings on a map. That's how users will see how far the hotel or restaurant is from the city center or the nearest subway station.

To create itinerary apps, developers use Apple Maps or Google Maps, depending on the platform (iOS or Android).

Next, hosts should also have an option to add their place and it's description to the list.

They need to enter:

• description
• available rooms

4. Messaging Channels

You may also think of adding a chat between customers and hotel representatives when developing a travel app. If users won't find an answer to their question in the application, they should have an option to ask staff members directly.

There’s no need for complex solutions with audio or video-calls. A plain chatbox will be a good job too.

Most travel apps allow the booking of tickets, hotels, tours, and other related services. To implement this functionality, developers use various technologies and APIs – like Booking.com, Skyscanner, and other widely popular tools.

What is a travel API, and how it works? We've spelled it out! Check out our '15 Best Travel APIs to Help You Build a Great Product' to see them.

But platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com rarely collect the payment from travelers; they prefer to leave it to the hosts.

Travel mobile app design sample: booking feature

6. Reviews System

The reviews system helps users to find out what travelers think and discover the pitfalls.

Here's how it works: when the users check out of the apartment (or the payment goes through, the system will show a notice asking them to rate their experience.

Recommendations from travelers will help other guests understand whether the place is what it seems.

7. Notifications

Push notifications are great for informing about updates, discounts, or sending reminders before the trip. Especially if you’re developing a travel app that is rarely used on an everyday basis.

Push notifications work for:

• showing new offers, discounts, price changes;
• reminding customers about the services left unchecked
• improving customer experience by informing about booking changes or sending reminders

That was the list of MVP features required for any travel application at the start.

But later, you can always add some sophisticated features like:

• weather forecasting
• currency converter
• in-app payments
• language translators, and so on

Weather feature concept by Cleveroad

How to Create a Travel App

Finally, let’s figure out how to make a travel app, both engaging and must-have useful.

1. Work for Your Target Audience

Ask yourself who you’re developing a travel app for.

Dealing with young travelers on a budget? They are easy to win over with discounts, assistance with finding hostels and push notifications about upcoming sales and free activities.

Aiming at big spenders? They have expensive tastes and want high-quality offers. Deliver top of the line experiences with unique offers they'll never forget.

Finally, it’s a good idea to add some personalized offers when developing a travel app. And there’s no shame in peeking at competitors and studying their offers.

Vice versa, you’ll see their week and strong points and may get a few great ideas about what their apps are missing.

2. Pick the Right Team

Done with planning? Time to start looking for a reliable travel app development company.

It may be a good idea to outsource the development abroad. Usually, software development services in Europe or Asia are cheaper than in the USA or Canada. And the quality is often the same.

We've made deep research on European pricing. Check it in our ' IT outsourcing in Europe ' guide.

To pick the company, I suggest using one of the leading review and rating platforms:

On these websites, you'll see the list of companies by countries, hourly rates, and check what their clients have to say.

Top travel apps development companies for android and iOS

3. Collaborate with the Hosts

No fancy travel app design or smooth performance will work for customers if there are no good offers provided. So collaboration with hosts is one of the key points of travel application development.

That’s a large amount of data, and hosts are more likely to manage it from an easy-to-use app.

Appearance matters! Order top UI/UX design services for building a cunning app.

From their account, hotel managers should be able to monitor the bookings, general information, and other details.

Another point is a smooth notifications system.

Besides, customers are likely to blame the app if anything happens during their trip. Make sure you’re choosing trustworthy partners that will follow your agreement.

How to make travel app: main steps

Tech Stack For Travel Application Development

Modern technologies come handy for making travel apps run smoothly and load fast.

If want to build a travel app for iOS, the most popular programming languages are Swift and Objective-C . As for Android, engineers may choose Kotlin or Java .

Besides, no application can run without third-patry tools and integrations.

Here’s an example of a project development stack (iOS, Android, web):

App development

• Passport.js
• Crashlytics

3-rd party services

• Google Signin
• Google Maps API
• Google Play

Still, remember that any set of technologies always depends on your project and business requirements.

Cost of a Travel App Development

Building a travel application for two platforms (iOS and Android apps) may cost about $103,600 . It's an APPROXIMATE number based on $50/h rate (Eastern Europe, Ukraine).

The exact number fully depends on your needs and expected functionality.

How much your travel app costs?

Our business analysts at your disposal! We’ll check requirements and calculate the cost, for free.

How I got this number? It's simple: the more hours devs will spend on the mobile development services , the more it's going to cost you.

Our business analysts estimated that travel app development for both iOS and Android (including the hosts’ part, backend and admin panel), will take 2,072 hours .

Besides, the total price of travel app development depends on your vendor's country of residence.

Here are just a few examples with different regions:

• Eastern Europe . $103,600 (based on $50/h)
• Central and Western Europe . $207,200 (based on $100/h)
• USA . $310,800 (based on $150/h)
• Australia . $207,200 (based on $100/h)

Cleveroad Expertise

We are an IT outsourcing company with more than 11 years of experience in the market. Our main objective is to renovate the internal processes of our customers’ business, aiming at higher user satisfaction as well as competitive advantages obtaining. Travel software is the on-demand niche our expertise comprises.

Cleveroad software engineers will eagerly architect solutions for booking, HMS, and TMS digital products to provide the voyagers with a perfect service.

Need a travel app?

We’ll help to turn your idea into a full-scale product.

Travel apps help users to research destinations, find good flight and accommodation deals, and book services. Apps like TripAdvisor also offer travel guides and allow users to check reviews and ratings from travelers.

• Step #1. Define your target audience and come up with unique offers for them.
• Step #2. Hire qualified developers to build a travel app.
• Step #3. Collaborates with the hosts (hotels, restaurants, and so on).

About $103,600 for iOS and Android apps and admin panel. It's an APPROXIMATE number based on a $50/h rate (Eastern Europe, Ukraine). If you need an accurate estimation of your project, contact us .

Evgeniy Altynpara is a CTO and member of the Forbes Councils’ community of tech professionals. He is an expert in software development and technological entrepreneurship and has 10+years of experience in digital transformation consulting in Healthcare, FinTech, Supply Chain and Logistics

Give us your impressions about this article

Very nicely explained.

Thanks for sharing wonderful post. It Will very helpful for beginners. Keep writing.

nice and informative article

It's an interesting points you have shared. Thanks for sharing.

Great article. Thanks for sharing

Apr 25, 2024

Apr 24, 2024

Apr 11, 2024

GetYourGuide: Travel & Tickets 4+

Experiences for your next trip, getyourguide.

• #31 in Travel
• 4.9 • 91.5K Ratings

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Book tickets and activities in the world’s bucket-list destinations with GetYourGuide. Download the app to discover more than 75,000 unforgettable travel experiences. Download the GetYourGuide app to discover and book unforgettable travel experiences anywhere in the world Whether you're planning a vacation or looking for last-minute things to do in any destination, we make booking tours, day trips, and activities easier than ever. Choose from culture, food, adventure, nature, and more experiences. Maximize your trip with exclusive access to the world's top attractions and museums, find the highlights and hidden gems, and keep up with last-minute travel deals using the app — we make travel planning easy, and making memories easier. Find over 75,000 experiences Booking tickets for unmissable sights has never been easier — experience the Colosseum, Eiffel Tower, London Eye, TV Tower, Sagrada Familia, and more. Discover expert-guided tours — explore unforgettable travel highlights in Paris, Dubai, London, Florence, New York City, Berlin, Vienna, New Orleans, Cancun, Tuscany, Lisbon, and more. Our app will be your city guide for destinations around the world, and our local experts help you get fully immersed. Travel with flexibility Reserve now, pay later — save your place for popular experiences early and make your payment at a later date. Instant confirmation — whether you're booking tours in advance or need last-minute tickets, receive your tickets and booking confirmation instantly. Offline tickets — Conveniently access your booking information offline. Download, store, and present your tickets on your mobile device Book with confidence 24/7 customer service — Easily find help when you have questions. We offer customer service by email, phone, and in the app across multiple languages. Flexible cancellation — Don’t stress if your plans change. We offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your activity for most bookings. With tours and activities for any interest, you can plan your trips your way. Dive into nature and explore fjords in Norway, try local cuisine across Europe, or uncover fascinating history in the United States. Whether you're living the magic of the wizarding world on a Harry Potter experience, savoring delicious culinary delights on a food tour of Barcelona, booking top rated tours to see the Vatican, or following a city guide through Berlin, we guarantee you'll find something unforgettable to do — make the most of your travel and leisure time. Uncover the top tourist activities in the world's bucket-list destinations: Book museum tours and tickets in Rome, food trips through Naples, trekking in Iceland, river cruises around Prague, outdoor adventures in Bali, sightseeing in Budapest, and more. Use the app as a travel planner or for travel guidance, then book travel experiences for the world's must-see highlights with excursions and last-minute tickets. Tell us how we’re doing Leave us a review if you’re enjoying your GetYourGuide app experience or head over to our help page for further assistance: www.getyourguide.com/contact

Version 24.18

We update our app every few weeks to ensure that searching for activities feels like being upgraded to first class. Here's a quick overview of what the app team has been up to: Bugs? Bashed Crashes? Banished Design? Beautified Has our hard work paid off? Tell us what you think by leaving a review. Something not quite right with the app? Head over to our help page for further assistance: getyourguide.com/contact

Ratings and Reviews

91.5K Ratings

They won’t let you leave less than a 5 star review

I tried to give 2 stars but they don’t even allow it!! 😂 WOW. I recently tried this app/company for the first time on an international trip because they seemed so convenient and they had many more tours and opportunities than I had been easily able to find otherwise. However, after booking 3 items through them, I have spent more time on help chat with them tracking down and fixing their mistakes than the time spent on actual enjoyable activities, which is supposedly what they sell - convenient access to activities. My experiences with this company have included waiting in 15 degrees F for an hour for a tour bus that never came, an hour now on the app and phone after that to get that tour refunded, and more recently, more time out of my life after vacation is over tracking down why they are apparently recurring charging me according to my credit card alerts. Thanks Get Your Guide for enriching my life! I will say that their customer service people are very friendly (they clearly get alot of practice), however, I prefer companies that get it right in the first place. Avoid them like the plague.

Great travel app

Last year, my husband and I went on our 20th anniversary trip ton Spain, Portugal, Morocco, & Gibraltar. Get Your Guide was a great app to use in planning some of the places we wanted to see. Purchasing tickets for tours or points of interest was easy and the cancellation policy is very good. We had one place we had to cancel because of time constraints and we got a full refund because we cancelled within the time frame they mentioned. I also like the fact that tickets are stored in the app or you can download it to your phone and since we have iPhones, all our tickets were stored in Apple wallet so it was safe and secure and hassle free as we didn’t have to print physical copies. Also the freedom of not having to get in line to buy tickets is another bonus. We visited the Tile museum in Lisbon and the tickets were for the same day and entrance is at anytime so that helped us plan our day and we were able to take our time at all the places we visited.

Terrible customer service

I recently had a dreadful experience with the GetYourGuide app that left me utterly frustrated and disappointed. Despite booking a popular large group tour in Rome several weeks in advance, I inadvertently booked the same tour again for the same day the day before the tour was set to begin. Shockingly, the app failed to notify me of this duplicate booking. Upon realizing my mistake, I immediately attempted to cancel one of the bookings, only to find out that I couldn’t because the tour was less than 24 hours away. Customer service was an absolute nightmare. Despite numerous emails and interactions with different agents, they all robotically regurgitated the same excuse: “rules are rules.” It’s clear their primary concern is protecting their own interests, even at the expense of customer satisfaction. They shamelessly lied to me about the possibility of a refund, claiming the tour provider wouldn’t cooperate, only to be exposed when I reached out to the actual agency and received a prompt and courteous refund directly from them. It’s evident that GetYourGuide’s customer service is severely lacking, with a dismissive attitude that suggests they believe their dominance in the market exempts them from providing quality assistance. Save yourself the headache and use alternative platforms like Booking, Airbnb, TripAdvisor, Klook, or any other service that actually values its customers. Trust me, it’s not worth the hassle.

Developer Response ,

Hello Geroge, thank you for taking the time to give us feedback. We're sorry that you were not satisfied with the assistance provided by our customer service. Please contact us at [email protected] from the email address you added during the booking process. Don't forget to mention the name on your review and we'll get back to you shortly. Thanks

App Privacy

The developer, GetYourGuide , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Used to Track You

The following data may be used to track you across apps and websites owned by other companies:

• Identifiers

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Financial Info
• Contact Info
• User Content
• Search History

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian Bokmål, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Swedish, Traditional Chinese, Turkish

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

Get all of your passes, tickets, cards, and more in one place.

You might also like.

Tiqets - Museums & Attractions

Omio: Europe & U.S. Travel

easyJet: Travel App

Headout: Travel Experiences

Visit A City

Civitatis: Fill your trip!

3 travel apps you need before your next flight to keep you out of long TSA lines

Travel can be stressful, especially when airports are involved. 

Flights get delayed, or, worse still, canceled.  

Ever-growing security lines sometimes snake through the airport, putting you in jeopardy of missing your flight.

Last-minute changes can happen and derail months of planning, potentially starting off your trip on a bad note.

Programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry can help travelers, but there are also ways that tech can help you prepare for your journey and stay aware of the curveballs that might come your way.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here are three apps to download before your next trip. 

Watch the video above to learn which three apps you need before your next trip. 

Airline app 

Download your airline’s app! 

It keeps all of your travel information in one, easy-to-access place. 

Turn on notifications to get immediate alerts when it's time to check in so you'll know if there are any delays or gate changes. 

Once you have a boarding pass, save even more time by adding it to the digital wallet on your smartphone.

The lines at airport security can be very unpredictable. Sometimes there is no wait, other times, the line extends into the check-in area. 

The Transportation Security Agency’s (TSA) app, MyTSA, tries to make the wait a little more predictable and helps you determine what to expect, especially if you’re traveling from one of the busiest airports in the US.  

The app provides a real-time look at your selected airport's wait time, any FAA delays, and which TSA PreCheck lanes are open. 

The app also uses historical data to help you plan ahead. So, even if your flight is three days away, the app can show you what you’re likely to encounter that day based on previous experiences. 

It’s also a useful resource if you’re unsure about what you can or can’t pack in your carry-on and checked luggage.

Mobile Passport Control

If you’re traveling abroad, the Mobile Passport Control app makes your return through U.S. customs much faster. 

The app is a digital version of the Customs and Border Patrol Declaration Form that anyone entering the U.S. is required to fill out.  

You can save up to 12 profiles in the app, and only one form is needed per family, per residence. 

The app doesn't work at every airport, so check  the CBP website to see where you can use it. 

Reviewed-approved iPhone accessories  

Purchases you make through our links may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.   

Reviewed helps you find the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of tech experts test everything from Apple AirPods and screen protectors to iPhone tripods and car mounts so you can shop for the best of the best. 

• The best rugged iPhone case: Spigen Slim Armor  
• A top wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger  
• Our favorite screen protector: Ailun Glass Screen Protector  
• The best portable battery pack: Mophie Powerstation Plus  
• Durable phone car holders: Beam Electronics Phone Holder  
• An iPhone tripod we love: Aureday Phone Tripod  
• The best lightning cable: Anker 6 ft Premium Double-Braided Nylon Lightning Cable  

More problems, solved

• Pre-travel checklist: 4 things you need to do before your next trip
• Plan your trip: 3 tips to plan your next trip using social media
• Easily get around: 4 tech tips to easily explore a new city
• Stream offline: How to watch TV shows, movies offline
• Communicate in any language: 5 ways to use Google Translate on your phone
• Photograph your food: 4 tips to capture delicious photos of your food
• Snap the perfect pic: 4 iPhone camera tricks you need to know

• Telemedicine
• E-learning / LMS
• Fitness & Wellness
• Web App Development
• Android Apps
• Cross-Platform Apps
• Software Testing
• UI/UX Design
• Most Popular Articles
• How to Build a Telemedicine App: 7 Steps to Connect with Patients
• How to Develop a Healthcare App: Tested Guide from HealthTech Professionals
• Pitfalls You Should Avoid When Developing a mHealth App
• Latest Articles
• Top App Development Company In Estonia 2023 by Clutch
• 10 Benefits of AI in Healthcare: Use Cases & Adoption
• Hospital App Development: Nailing Your MVP Costs, Steps, & Features
• How To Create an Online Learning Platform Like Udemy or Coursera
• ISO 9001 vs. ISO 13485: Differences for Medical Device Compliance

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

How to Create a Travel App: Tips, Tricks, Costs

Remember the first time you have planned your trip yourself? Meaning that you have chosen destination, checked the weather forecast in this place, found out the best time to visit it, rearranged your schedule to make this happens, checked the map to find the best way to get there in terms of time and costs, did some research to find things to do there, planned day by day program… Already tried to read? Yes, planning is tiring, yet rewarding. Some people give up even before they start doing a thing and they go to the agency, pay money for someone to create the best trip for them. It’s a working approach, still, sometimes it lacks a personal touch and uniqueness. And this is where all application development becomes at hand, enabling travelers to achieve unique experience, omitting all tiresome process and long hours of searching. Those providers that have already noticed such rising demand, are already thinking about how to build a travel app. Are you one of them? Keep reading to get information about how to create a travel app.

• Travel Market: Facts, Statistics, Trends

The travel market is growing and it is estimated to hit $1,091 billion by 2022 with a CAGR of 11% during the next several years. This market is pushed by all the digitization that occurred in traveling, like online booking, payment, planning, etc. It’s not only growing but becoming better in offering quick services. To make it even more convenient and faster, travel agencies are already offering their services via mobile and web applications, as these are the most favorable mediums to reach the target audience.

According to Criteo, the branded tools, that are offered by a specific travel agency have all chances to become the driving force of online travel buying. Such tools not only help to increase the number of bookings done via mobile devices but also increase the conversion rate. This report also states that the retailers noticed a more than 17% conversion rate increase for their mobile travel apps.

Source: The Criteo Travel Flash Report – Winter 2018

Mobile is gaining momentum for those users, who prefer to travel on impulse. 89% of such bookings happen via mobile devices (split mostly evenly between mobile browsers and apps).

The mobile platform is also chosen over the web due to its speed (39%), additional functionality, that is unavailable on the web (30%) and better user experience (21%).

Source:Travelport Digital research

• Travel App Engagement

Another research revealed that travelers turn to a wide range of apps more regularly when they have a definite plan of where they need to go. Such users demand to be communicated on a regular basis via push messages, in-app chats, notifications sent before during and after the trip. These expectations present agencies with many opportunities to increase engagement.

These years users install tools not only to evaluate their choices but complete the target activity. 81.8% install-to-reserve rate supports this idea, revealing that users rely on a mobile/web solution to make a booking. Even though the value of such a transaction remains unknown, it is stated that the cost to acquire such a user is around $5.51.

Source: 2018 mobile app engagement index 

Males appear to engage more at a lower price than females. However, the high cost to acquire a male user who completes a registration ($9.27) and 44.1% install-to-register conversion rate indicates marketers have to do more to remove the friction.

Females tend to be pricier to acquire, but they become more loyal to the app in the deeper funnel showing the install-to reserve conversion rate of nearly 90%.

Nonetheless, a disconnect at the Register stage forms marketing opportunity to optimize a tool for convenience closing the gender gap.

• Benefits that Travel Apps Provide

There are numerous advantages of using mobile travel apps, in fact, they are limitless. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Benefits for Customers

• Personalization

The goal of a travel tool is to convert users to complete the target action – to book a room, purchase a ticket, rent a car, etc. Personalization can help to achieve this goal. Many mobile travel apps have access to big data, that helps to customize the user experience.

For instance, it is possible to customize a trip, time and day of a flight, various bookings and dining options based on the user’s past habits. With this experience, a user will save time, money and mental health to get what he/she wants, and companies will boost customer relations and increase engagement.

Many providers have proprietary apps that help their clients to automate such operations as check-ins, check-outs, ordering room services, managing their accounts. Many big names, such as Hilton and InterContinental are already in the game. Following their route and adding such features, can give you additional advantages over the local competitors.

• One-Stop-Shop

Traveling is not only about buying tickets or booking a room. It’s more about the short term living in another, sometimes unknown place, including local commute, eating out, sightseeing, insurance, price forecasting, etc. With the right tool, that has all of that packed inside travelers can do everything in one place faster with less headache (planning a trip sounds romantic, still when you need to this often it’s a tiresome experience, and when it’s your first time – it can be a disaster). Tools like Skyscanner enable travelers to find the cheapest dates to fly, buy tickets, deal with insurance, rent cars, book hotels, etc. Such all in one solution are by all means handy.

• Better communication and organization

For those travelers, who are going on business trips a mobile travel app can be very effective for organizing trips, linking up with providers and fellow travelers. Social functions in mobile apps enable travelers to interact globally while discovering other cultures.

Benefits for Business

Mobile travel solutions proved their potential and effectiveness not only for the customer but for businesses.

• Provide customized services to suit traveler needs

The more you know about your customers, the higher the chances you have to satisfy their needs. Giving travelers what they want, enhances their experience, and increases cash flow into the business.

• Bridge the gulf between travelers and travel service providers

Such tools help travel companies build trust with their users, by building communication with a user directly and managing their needs the moment they appear without time delays.

Moreover, such apps improve the customer satisfaction rate through anticipation of their

need, resulting in customer loyalty.

• Offer exciting offers to boost agency sales

The app can be used not only to send a customer notification about their bookings and flights but is a platform for sales outreach. For instance, an operator can provide discounts, special offers or exclusive deals for their customers. You can send your customer a birthday promo his or her most favorite destination and your travel is sure to gain a permanent customer.

• Defining the Type of Your Travel App and Its Features

Before defining how to make travel guide apps, you need to outline what travel tool you want to develop. The market is already flooded with a vast variety of travel applications including, but not limited to accommodation, flight, bus, train booking, car rentals, navigation, travel guide apps. These types are defined from the features they hold. Thus, the list is huge. Not to get lost in all this ocean of apps we advise you to go from your customers’ needs and expectations.

Here is some statistics on functionality that travelers value to fuel your thoughts about your travel app.

Source: Travelport Digital research

As you can see the most expected features are search/book flights/accommodation, thus including them into your travel tool can be rather helpful for your target users. Still, don’t limit yourself. To make the list of functions your solution needs to include, define the goal of your business, pains of your users and study apps available on the market.

Is your app more about

• booking? – check Hotels.com, Airbnb Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Nusatrip, etc.
• search? – check Skyscanner, Kiwi, Momondo, etc.
• receiving travel information? – check Minube, TripAdviser, Gogobot, Triposo, etc.

Now when you have checked the examples, got a mere understanding what your app can look like based only on the dominant function of your app, it’s time to dive deeper and develop a business model canvas, that will help you define the exact list of functions your app should have and to develop the general business model for your tool to make money.

• Business Model Canvas

As you know business model canvas is a business tool that helps to visualize the business model. It will also help to shape the requirements for your app, as well as describe your target audience, values, ways to reach customers and communicate with them, monetization models, functions, funds, and costs. Take a look below how it was done by Booking.com.

• How Do Travel Apps Make Money?

You have already tried out some of the travel apps, and you might have noticed, that they are free. In the majority of cases, travel apps are used as a value-added factor, a platform to supplement already working business models. For instance, you have booked a flight from Wizzair and you have an app to store your boarding pass, get notifications about your flight updates and to ease boarding. The tool itself is free, but the ticket is not. Another example: you are using Airbnb for free, you have free access to all functions, still, you will need to pay in case you want to book an apartment.

We can outline 4 of the most widespread monetization models in the travel industry:

• In-app advertising, when using the tool is free, still, you will receive a bunch of ads inside.
• Commission, when an owner receives a commission on every booking made via an app.
• In-app purchases, when the tool serves as a gateway purchase something, e.g. tickets.
• Supporting app for the core business, when it facilitates using already purchased offers. For example, you have purchased an excursion, and the tool gives you access to an audio guide to support this excursion.
• How to Create a Truly Successful Travel Application?

We will be succinct here. The secret of how to make a successful travel app:

• Knowledge of your target users. The more you know about your customers, the better you can serve their needs.
• Thoroughly developed business model. Know your ins and outs and the monetization model. Have regularly updated realistic plans, that you follow.
• Trusted partners. Ensure you have trusted partners that can support your endeavor, help and don’t overcharge your development. Before choosing travel app developers, take a look at the articles on the difference between in-house development and outsourcing , and Eastern Europe software outsourcing . It will help you choose your path to the app of your dream.
• How Much Does It Cost to Develop a Travel App?

We, at Riseapps, have gained experience in how to design travel apps and build them from scratch. We are ready to share key information on the team structure, tech stack, development time and costs. As the difficulty of the process to build a travel app depends a lot on the functions of your app, platforms you will use and the way you will integrate an app into your current business model, we will bring as an example of the cost to develop a travel guide app.

All things considered, take some time to draft the business model canvas for your travel business, get the key information about your target audience and choose the trusted software development company with the relevant experience in the field to enhance your business.

P.S. Developing a travel tool is an exciting and immersive experience, especially when engaging with the right people. Our team is ready to answer any questions you may have about how to make a travel app. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions about travel mobile app development .

Dealing with programmers might not be a piece of cake, hiring them can be even more compli...

Building the new product or developing an idea is a risky endeavor itself, and having the ...

• Technologies

Hitting two birds with one stone and choosing that very stone - React Native vs Flutter. I...

Drop us a line

Send me NDA

We received your message and will be in touch with you shortly.

We will send you weekly digests from the world of IT.

• Travel Itinerary App
• Travel Risk Management
• Travel Document Delivery
• Travel Reporting
• Waiver Automation
• Case Studies
• Free Resources
• Contact Sales.

Travel Apps Blog.

Home Blog 6 Questions to Ask When Considering a Mobile Travel App Partner

6 Questions to Ask When Considering a Mobile Travel App Partner

Posted by Mike Atherton on 13 January, 2017

• Communication Strategy

Finding the ideal mobile travel app provider  can be difficult. Their level of experience, potential conflicts of interest and timeliness of delivery are some of the factors you should consider, but without asking the right questions, how can you be confident that your prospective partner is the right fit for your organisation?

To help you make an informed decision, here are 6 questions we think you should ask.

1. What Expertise Do They Have in Your Sector?

This goes deeper than “we’re in travel”. We all know that travel has many domains which have unique characteristics. Knowing the airline model doesn’t always translate into expertise in managed business travel. For this reason, be sure to ask your potential partner to describe their experience working with similar agencies. This includes asking in-depth questions about their understanding of your GDS to get an idea of how they will approach your environment.

2. Can They Be Truly Objective?

When looking for a partner to support the delivery of your mobile strategy, you need to know that they are bringing the best ideas and industry relationships to your project.

If your prospective app provider is a GDS, or owned by one, there could be a conflict of interest. Getting your mobile app service from an organisation that is focused on traditional distribution, no matter how “independent” they say they are, might get in the way if your organisation wants to review its GDS strategy, implement off-GDS booking process or go multi-GDS. And let’s not forget, GDS timescales are not often in line with the wider travel market, so coordinating initiatives with them could prove tricky.

3. Can They Point to Successful Implementations?

Whilst each agency has its unique proposition in its market sector, within each client network there will be a lot of common processes with other agencies.

Boilerplate lists of industry names are a good starting point, but eventually you will need to drill down into what specific experience your partner has in successfully implementing technology within its client network. To do this, you may wish to talk to similar agencies who have used their technology to solve their problems.

4. Can They Work With Your Other Traveller Communication Methods?

Whilst focusing on mobile, it’s important not to forget your other communication channels. Document delivery , invoicing, invoice retrieval, online interactive itineraries and even risk management should all fall within your partner's understanding and/or services, so that they can fully support your contract strategy. If your app provider boasts about being mobile-only then there is a risk that you will end up with a disjointed, inconsistent approach to client and traveller communications. So, despite mobile being the central focus, don’t box yourself in to a mobile-only provider when your communications strategy needs to evolve and expand. This touches on the topic of a previous blog post that explains how mobile should be a priority, but not the only approach to communication. A significant number of your travel arrangers and travellers will want their usual travel documentation, whether that be email or an online itinerary.

5. Do They Deliver on Time?

This comes in two parts. Firstly, delivering a mobile project is a collaborative effort and you will need dedicated resources to make sure your organisation can support the launch. Your partner should be able to give you guidance about what type of resource is needed when and for how long to ensure a successful delivery and launch of your mobile service. The second part is more straightforward. Ask to speak to their other agencies to get a feel for how they work and their experience in dealing with the provider.

6. Can They Support Your Marketing Efforts to Drive the Impact of Your Traveller Contact Strategy?

Can your prospective partner go the extra mile, and not just service your technology needs, but also support you across a range of activities to make the greatest impact with your clients and travellers? They should understand your business strategy and be able to provide you with the collateral and/or content for your promotional efforts. Remember to ask what support they can give to your organisation to help them understand the unique components of your services. What’s more, find out if they are able and willing to support specialist areas, such as risk management , or perhaps help fill a particular void in your skill-set to aid in the initial deployment.

For more information on mobile apps and the impact they can have on the travel experience you offer your clients, download our mobile strategy guide for TMCs.

Previous post.

Back to blog.

Posts by topic

• Travel Apps
• Travel Risk Assessment
• Traveller Tracking
• Merchandising
• Document Delivery
• Product Update

Recent Posts

Subscribe here.

Subscribe to the Blog for Email Updates

Privacy Policy © 2024

Website by Blend

Quick Links.

Case studies

Privacy Statement

Tripscape Terms Of Use

Terms Of Use

Tripscape Support

[email protected]

Call: +44 113 337 2207 

Address:  Carrwood Park, Selby Rd, Leeds LS15 4LG

Get in Touch.

Just one more step to your free trial.

.surveysparrow.com

Already using SurveySparrow?  Login

By clicking on "Get Started", I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service .

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Don't miss the future of CX at RefineCX USA!  Register Now

Enterprise Survey Software

Enterprise Survey Software to thrive in your business ecosystem

NPS® Software

Turn customers into promoters

Offline Survey

Real-time data collection, on the move. Go internet-independent.

360 Assessment

Conduct omnidirectional employee assessments. Increase productivity, grow together.

Reputation Management

Turn your existing customers into raving promoters by monitoring online reviews.

Ticket Management

Build loyalty and advocacy by delivering personalized support experiences that matter.

Chatbot for Website

Collect feedback smartly from your website visitors with the engaging Chatbot for website.

Swift, easy, secure. Scalable for your organization.

Executive Dashboard

Customer journey map, craft beautiful surveys, share surveys, gain rich insights, recurring surveys, white label surveys, embedded surveys, conversational forms, mobile-first surveys, audience management, smart surveys, video surveys, secure surveys, api, webhooks, integrations, survey themes, accept payments, custom workflows, all features, customer experience, employee experience, product experience, marketing experience, sales experience, hospitality & travel.

• Market Research

Saas Startup Programs

Wall of love, success stories, sparrowcast, nps® benchmarks, learning centre, apps & integrations, testimonials.

Our surveys come with superpowers ⚡

Blog Best Of

60+ Mobile App Survey Questions to Ask

11 April 2024

Table Of Contents

• Feature Prioritization
• Beta Testing

Mobile app survey questions let you gain actionable insights that would help you build a better experience as well as promote your app better.

In this article, we’ve listed the best mobile app survey questions you can ask your app users to gather feedback that would help you improve your mobile app & experience.

Here are the different kinds of mobile app survey questions we cover in this article:

• UI/UX questions
• Feature questions
• Feature prioritization questions
• Rating questions
• Market research questions
• Customer support questions
• Customer success questions
• Beta testing questions
• General questions

Before we get into the wide variety of mobile app survey questions example, I’ve something for you.

If you are straightway looking for a mobile app survey, feel free to use this template. Say goodbye to complicated survey setups! Our mobile app survey template offers a seamless, straightforward way to gather the insights you need.

Just a quick sign-up with your email, and you’re all set to go – no costs, no fuss. Start exploring the simplicity and efficiency today!

Mobile App Survey

30+ mobile app survey questions you should be asking your app users.

Here are the 9 categories of mobile app survey questions to ask your app users:

Mobile App UI/UX Questions

• How did you first learn about our app?
• What comes to your mind when thinking about our app?
• Why did you choose us over the competition?
• Which of the issues below was the biggest problem during your experience with the app?
• Please describe the problem you encountered in more detail
• How is the navigation of the mobile application?
• The app made it easy for me to update my account details.
• The app made it easy for me to resolve my support question.
• How do you feel about the new app design?
• How does the app run after the updates?
• What confused/annoyed you about the app?
• How functional does the application feel to you?

Mobile App Feature Questions

• Can you tell us about a situation where the application was useful?
• is our app helping you achieve goals?
• What goals have you achieved with this application?
• What more functions would you like us to add?
• How would you like to rate this new feature?
• which feature would you likely use the most?
• how often would you use this feature?
• was this feature/button easy to find?
• What feature did you expect but not find?
• Are there any features you think you need but are missing in the mobile application? Describe.
• What is your goal when you want to use the mobile application?
• With the existing features, does the mobile application help you to achieve your goals? How?
• Describe a situation in which the mobile application was the most useful to you.
• To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? This app feature is easy to use.
• Which features of the app are most/least important to you?
• Which features didn’t work as expected?

App Feature Prioritization Questions

• How often do you use this feature?
• Which feature do you use the least?
• Should this feature be listed higher up?

Mobile app (or In-app) surveys are available on SurveySparrow with our Mobile SDK . You can try this feature (and all others) with a free account.

Fourteen days, no credit card details required.

Please enter a valid Email ID.

14-Day Free Trial • No Credit Card Required • No Strings Attached

Mobile App Rating Survey Questions

• On a scale of 1 to 5, rate your experience using the mobile application.
• On a scale of 1 to 5, rate the interface of the mobile application.
• How would you rate the look and feel of the mobile app?
• On a scale of 1 to 5, rate the intuitiveness of the icons.
• On a scale of 1 to 5, rate the loading speed of the mobile application.
• How satisfied are you with the app navigation?
• What is the reason for your score?
• Would you recommend this app to your family and friends?
• How likely are you to recommend our mobile app after [the latest feature update]?
• Would you like to leave a review or rate us on the app store?
• How happy are you with the [checkout process]?
• What can we do to improve?

Market Research Questions

• What price would you be willing to pay for this app?
• How clear do you find our pricing?
• How would you rate our app’s value for money?
• What alternatives to our app are you considering?
• How does the app compare with competitors?
• If the pricing were to change, would you be happy to pay more? Why or why not?

Support Mobile App Survey Questions

• Did you find what you were looking for?
• How satisfied were you with our support and support personnel?
• How would you rate our support?
• What is your preferred type of communication?

Customer Success Mobile App Survey Questions

• How has your experience with our product been in the last [x] months?
• Would you renew your contract if you had the option? Why or why not?
• Since you last purchased, what has been the biggest benefit you’ve seen?
• What are you working on this week, and how can we help make this a success?

Beta Testing Questions

• Overall, how would you rate our beta program?
• Did you find it easy to know your responsibilities as a tester?
• How easy was it to report issues you encountered?
• Do you have any suggestions or comments about our beta program?

General Survey Questions

• What do you like most about the mobile app?
• What do you like the least about the mobile app?
• Anything else you would like to share about the mobile app?
• What prompted you to use the mobile app today?
• How would you feel if you can no longer use the app? Why?
• What were you trying to achieve with the mobile app today?
• What triggers would prompt you to use the app?

Final Thoughts

Mobile app questions allow you to get actionable feedback from your app users while they experience your app.

When done right, mobile app surveys can help optimize and improve your mobile app. We hope this article will help you create an effective mobile app survey.

Are you looking to create and conduct a mobile app survey by yourself? SurveySparrow provides you with everything you need to create and conduct an effective mobile app survey!

Our survey questions for mobile phone typically tend to boost survey responses and create pleasant experiences. Most of your customers will complete your mobile app evaluation questionnaire as they would be pleased to take your well-timed, well-designed surveys.

Moreover, SurveySparrow provides you with a simple drag-and-drop interface and a free mobile app survey template.

If you’re looking to boost your survey responses and create pleasant experiences, take SurveySparrow for a spin today!

Have you got any questions on creating mobile app surveys? Got any interesting tips or hacks for creating an effective mobile app survey? Let us know in the comment section below.

If you’re wondering whether SurveySparrow is the right fit for you and would rather have someone walk you through our platform, reach out to us for a free, personalized demo !

I'm a developer turned marketer, working as a Product Marketer at SurveySparrow — A survey tool that lets anyone create beautiful, conversational surveys people love to answer.

You Might Also Like

Covid vaccine: all you need to know, as ‘19 comes knockin’ on our doors, 80+ remote learning survey questions for students, teachers, and parents, cherry-picked blog posts. the best of the best..

Leave us your email, we wont spam. Promise!

Start your free trial today

No Credit Card Required. 14-Day Free Trial

Request a Demo

Want to learn more about SurveySparrow? We'll be in touch soon!

Looking for mobile app survey for free?

Try surveysparrow's customized surveys for free now..

14-Day Free Trial • No Credit card required • 40% more completion rate

Hi there, we use cookies to offer you a better browsing experience and to analyze site traffic. By continuing to use our website, you consent to the use of these cookies. Learn More

Travel App UI Kit

Introducing the Travel App UI Kit: the ultimate design toolkit for crafting the next-gen travel application. This comprehensive iOS mobile UI kit is tailored to elevate the user experience for travelers through its sleek, modern design and a plethora of features designed to make travel apps more intuitive and visually compelling.

Key Highlights:

• 45+ Screens: Dive into an extensive range of meticulously designed screens, offering a diverse array of layouts for every travel app need.
• Design System Included: Benefit from a cohesive design system that ensures consistency across your app, enhancing usability and the overall user experience.
• Pixel Perfect Precision: Experience the difference with every element crafted to perfection, ensuring a visually pleasing layout on all devices.
• Dark Mode: Switch to the elegant and eye-friendly dark mode, perfect for low-light conditions and adding a modern touch to your app's interface.
• Fully Customizable: Unleash your creativity with fully customizable components. Tailor every aspect, from color to typography, to mirror your unique brand identity.
• Neatly Organized: Save time with our logical and clear structure. Easily navigate through components, screens, and assets for efficient design and development.

The Travel App UI Kit stands out with its attention to detail and dedication to quality. From pixel-perfect components to a comprehensive design system, every aspect is designed to provide an exceptional user experience. Whether in bright daylight or dim evenings, the optional dark mode ensures your app looks stunning at all times, while the fully customizable nature allows you to inject your brand's essence into every screen. Organized meticulously, this kit simplifies the design process, enabling you to focus on what truly matters: creating an unforgettable travel app.

Transform your travel app vision into reality with the Travel App UI Kit. It's not just a toolkit; it's your partner in design, ensuring every journey your app undertakes is as seamless and enjoyable as the destinations it explores.