travel adventure app

20 Best Travel Apps in 2024 (Plus They’re Free)

We frequently search for the best travel apps to make travel easier. We’ve tested hundreds of travel apps over the years, and we’re often asked to recommend the travel apps we can’t live without.

So, we wrote this post on the 20 best travel apps that helped us to visit every country in the world!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

These travel apps were essential to navigating our way through some remote places, saving money, and communicating with locals to experience unforgettable encounters and find unique places to stay.

Whether you’re looking to reserve a hotel room, dorm bed or apartment, book cheap flights, bus or train tickets on the go, translate a restaurant menu, ride local transport or chat with a local in a foreign language, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel apps you should have!

Let’s Dive In! 20 Best Travel Apps To Make Travel Easy

Table of Contents

1. Skyscanner

Skyscanner is the best travel flight app out there! It’s so easy to use and the prices are unbeatable!

Skyscanner is a metasearch engine that compares multiple airlines for the best prices. Just enter your departure airport, destination, and date to find cheap flights. 

You can filter results based on stops, duration, and airline. With the ‘everywhere’ option, discover the cheapest flights from your departure airport. 

Don’t miss out on this one, it’s hands down one of the best travel apps for nabbing cheap flights! It’s worth mentioning here that the Skyscanner app is also a metasearch engine for searching cheap car hire and hotels too. 

Our Favourite Feature: Skyscanner  allows you to compare multiple airlines, flight times, and prices. 

2. Booking.com

No travel app comes close to beating Booking.com to reserve your accommodation for your trip. From budget dorm beds in hostels and affordable hotels in great locations to luxury accommodations, including villas, apartments and everything in between, Booking.com is hands down one of the best travel apps for reserving a place to stay.

Once you’ve made several reservations on Booking.com, you can reclaim awards and discounts on accommodation too. We’ve reached Genius Level 3 from using this app, saving us up to 15% on future reservations.

The Booking.com app makes it easy to keep all your bookings in one place, and you can impress taxi drivers with the app’s handy hotel address feature, translated into the local language.

Download this must-have travel app before you leave on your adventures!

Our Favourite Feature: Booking.com has i n-app only deals and discounts

3. Airalo eSIM

Nowadays, the best way to stay connected on your travels is with Airalo eSIM . 

The Airalo travel app has been essential for us to stay connected in multiple regions and countries as we traverse the globe. 

This travel app allows you to download an eSIM for 190+ countries effortlessly. It’s so easy, and it’s affordable too! Just download, activate and go! 

We LOVE this product. Read more about why we choose eSIM for International Travel.

Our Favourite Feature: Discover eSIMs that cover up to 130+ countries on one eSIM! Choose from Data Only eSIM or Data, Call & Text eSIM to save you   huge $$$. View ALL Discover eSIM Packs here . 

Skype is an excellent means to stay connected with loved ones back home while you’re away.

We use the Skype app when we need to call a business or private number that isn’t on Whatsapp. 

One of the best things about the Skype app is the ability to make free video calls globally, provided that both parties use Skype.

Additionally, you can place calls to landlines or mobile phones for a fee. 

Keeping your Skype credit topped up with $10-20 allows seamless calling from your mobile or landline, making it a cost-effective way to communicate worldwide.

With access to a wifi signal, the possibilities are endless; you can reach any number globally with super affordable bills.

For digital nomads and business owners who are constantly on the move, Skype proves to be an indispensable app. It lets you quickly jump on work calls, making it an ideal tool. 

  Best feature:  Make free calls/video calls to any country worldwide.

5. Google Maps

Google Maps is an essential app for every traveller. It’s one of our phones’ most frequently used travel apps. We especially love that you can save cafes, hotels or places you want to visit and mark that spot with selected labels. 

We use the ‘heart’ label to add our favourite places to eat, and in the notes section, we just add what dish we’d like to eat there.

We like to use the ‘green flag’ label for places we’d like to visit, including attractions and landmarks. There’s a ‘blue bag’ label to pin accommodation options too, this is handy to save our hotel or apartment address and you can customise the label and add notes here too.

Our Favourite Feature:  The option to download and save offline maps. 

6. WISE 

WISE is an online account that lets you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally.

This service has saved us loads of money in international transactions & ATM fees. With a Wise account, you can get paid in other currencies and send money overseas. The app is lightning-fast and super savvy.

This is a must-have travel app for every traveller, especially if you’re planning to travel long-term.

Sign up for a WISE account here  and send your first International transfer for FREE!

Our Favourite Feature:  Fees are transparent and generally low, with no markup on exchange rates. Leave the big fees to the big banks and switch your banking needs to Wise!

7. Google Translate

What a savvy travel app this is! Google Translate is the best travel language app to help you communicate with the people you meet.

The app translates languages incredibly fast! With 100+ languages to access, you’ll breeze through interactions with locals.

From ordering the best meal, asking for directions or purchasing the correct train ticket or bus route, Google Translate has you covered. 

This app was an absolute gem to help us travel in China, that fantastic trip to Taiwan and decode menu items in Japan and Central Asia. 

Our Favourite Feature: Save particular words or phrases so you can access them quickly when needed.

Imagine checking just one place for ALL your travel details and getting notifications if things happen that may affect your trip. TripIt app is your personal travel organiser, and it will make your travelling life a breeze!

TripIt can organise your travel plans no matter where you book. Simply forward your confirmation emails to [email protected] and in a matter of seconds, TripIt will create a comprehensive itinerary for every trip.

We used TripIt to keep our flights, accommodation, bus & train tickets and even reservations for day tours organised so we could access the app at any time and quickly source the information we needed. 

Believe me, you need this in your life! TripIt is free and it’s one of the best travel apps to help you stay organised and stress-free when you’re on the road.

Our Favourite Feature:  You can also sync your plans with your calendar—no copy and pasting necessary.

9. Surfshark VPN 

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a must-have tool to protect your privacy and increase your internet security.

Surfshark VPN  safeguards your connection with military-grade encryption, so you can log into your accounts, make bank transfers, and shop online without worrying that your data may be compromised or hacked.

It works by encrypting communications so you’ll have an anonymous IP address. Surf Shark (or other good VPNs) allows you to access websites that are inaccessible in other countries. 

If you’re in a country such as China that bans many social media networks such as Facebook, by turning on Surfshark VPN, you can still access Facebook if you’re travelling here.

Download Surfshark VPN to put your mind at ease on your travels. 

Our Favourite Feature:  Fast connection, easy-to-use app

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10. Trainline

Trainline  is an international rail and coach booking platform. The user-friendly app allows you to buy instant train tickets and railcards and gain free access to live train times and railway station information. 

It’s so handy; we use the Trainline app to book all our train tickets on the go. It’s especially helpful for those of you wishing to travel around Europe by train .

Our Favourite Feature:  The app has a section called ‘my tickets’, which is helpful for quick access to your already purchased train reservations.

RELATED POST –  7 Best Tips for Traveling to Europe

11. Rome2Rio

This app is excellent for comparing transportation options between destinations. 

Once you enter your origin and destination, the Rome2Rio app searches for train, flight, bus, and ferry options between locations. Cleverly, it also shows the driving distance for trips by car so you can quickly and easily see which option is best for your timing and budget.

We use this app frequently to get a quick idea of the options available to get from A to B anywhere in the world. 

Our Favourite Feature:  If you see a journey you’d like to book there and then, the Rome2Rio app connects you with transportation providers to make a reservation.

12. GetYourGuide

Travel with ease! GetYourGuide is great for discovering excellent experiences and tours. Just enter your city, and the app does the rest! 

Find the best food tours, city tours, cruises, wildlife safaris, island hopping adventures, private transfers, skip-the-line entrance tickets and more! 

GetYourGuide offers city passes like the ‘Vatican City & Rome’ Pass . This sightseeing pass provides free entry to Rome’s most popular attractions and museums, saving you up to 55%!

They’ve got everything from thrilling motorcycle tours in Vietnam to invigorating 14-day hikes in Nepal; reserve your spot here .

Book excellent activities, compare prices and read past guest reviews for peace of mind.

The best part is their flexible cancellation policy, no hidden fees, and mobile-friendly tickets.

Our Favourite Feature:  GetYourGuide offers a flexible free cancellation policy.

The ultimate activity and tour booking companion! Viator is a top-notch travel app with a stellar reputation.

Like GetYourGuide, Viator is one of the best travel apps to book day tours, multi-day adventures, local experiences, entrance tickets and more!

Viator offers excellent customer service, free cancellation, flexible payment options, and an overall excellent product.

Explore 300,000+ experiences across the globe – USA, Asia, Europe, Australia, and beyond! 

Need travel inspiration about where to travel next? Our guide on the cheapest countries to visit this year will help you decide. 

Our Favourite Feature:  Viator app offers 24/7 customer service & support.

Moovit provides travellers with a one-stop-shop journey experience to help them get from point A to B most quickly and efficiently. 

You may be surprised at how savvy this travel app is; a game-changer in my opinion.

Get train, metro and bus times, maps, and real-time arrival information in cities and destinations worldwide to plan your trip confidently and get mooving!! 

Our Favourite Feature:  The app allows you to add a line (frequent journey) to your ‘favourites’ section for quick access and instant information.

15. Grab (and other ride-sharing apps)

Ride-sharing apps have been a saviour for us as we’ve made our way around the world. 

As I understand, Uber was the first ride-sharing app to start the ball rolling, but now there are many fantastic ride-sharing apps that can make your life so much easier out there on the road.

Depending on what country or region of the world you are planning to travel to, we recommend you download the ride-sharing apps below.

• Grab – For travel in Southeast Asia.
• Bolt – For travel in Europe, Tunisia (read these 10 Best Tips for Independent Travel in Tunisia ) and other nations in Africa too. 
• Uber – For travel in the USA, Canada, Europe & Australia
• FreeNow – Travel in Europe (up to 150+ cities)
• BiTaksi – For travel in Turkey.

And there are many more!

Most ride-sharing apps allow you to add your bank card to your profile to take care of the payment. We like this feature because you don’t need any local currency, and it cancels the chance of getting scammed by a taxi driver. Unfortunately, scams do happen.

Read our post about how to avoid 6 common tourist scams in China .

Our Favourite Feature:  Seeing the estimated price and journey time before you make a booking.

16. WhatsApp

Looking for a reliable way to stay connected with friends and family? Look no further than WhatsApp!

This is one of the best travel apps out there, and it’s used worldwide to keep people connected. 

WhatsApp offers a range of features, allowing you to send messages, make calls, and even video call other WhatsApp users for free, as long as you have a wifi connection.

Not only is WhatsApp perfect for keeping in touch with friends and family, but it also comes in handy while travelling. Nations worldwide communicate easily with WhatsApp, so it’s our top choice for the best travel apps to download to your device.

WhatsApp helps you to easily stay in contact with locals, tour operators, hotels, and companies, as many of them are readily available on WhatsApp. 

WhatsApp pairs perfectly with an international eSIM . An easy, reliable and affordable way to help you stay connected with the world.

Stay connected and travel easier out there – choose WhatsApp!

Our Favourite Feature:  The ability to video call, voice call or message other numbers for free, providing you’ve got a wifi connection (or an Airalo eSIM ) 

17. Xe Currency Converter

Use the Xe Currency Converter app to instantly check live market rates for every world currency on your Smartphone or device. 

That’s 170+ currencies that you can convert on the go. If you need to check the conversion of what 1 USD will give you in AUD, you can get your answer on this app within seconds.

We use this app to quickly check the latest exchange rates handing over any currency in an exchange office or even to a money changer on the street. We frequently used this during our overland travels across Central & West Africa . 

If you’ve ever wondered about what it’s like to travel in this region of the world, here are 17 ESSENTIAL Things to Know Before Travelling to West Africa from our experience.

18. Maps.me

Maps.me app is similar to Google Maps in some ways, but it’s much better for navigating rugged terrains!

Whenever we go hiking, we ensure we’ve got our map downloaded on Maps.me; it rarely lets us down. It does a great job of showing the small trails that Google Maps doesn’t usually pick up. 

It covers six continents, making it essential for unexplored or remote spots.

This travel app was handy in Africa, particularly when directing a taxi driver to our nominated address. Maps.me allows you to set up the navigation and press speak on the app, a voice will then guide you in the selected language. You should see the look on the taxi drivers’ faces when we do this; it’s pure amazement.

Maps.me is a must-have travel app for all travellers, especially those hoping to take off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Our Favourite Feature:  Maps.me offers a bookmark collection that allows you to build your ultimate trip!

19. Trusted Housesitters

If you’re planning to travel long-term, Trusted Housesitters is one of the best travel apps I’d recommend you download right now.

Every traveller finds out that accommodation is one of the most significant expenses on the road, and this app can help cancel that out entirely! 

Being a housesitter means free accommodation for you in return for looking after different homes around the globe. Choosing to join Trusted Housesitters was one of the best things we ever did!

Trusted Housesitters  is a fantastic website for saving money and house-sitting worldwide. 

Join now with our invitation  and receive a massive 25% off your membership!

Our Favourite Feature:  Use the filters on the app to set alerts for preferred cities or countries you know you’ll be visiting in the coming months. 

Omio  is the best travel app and booking platform for travellers on the go.

The Omio easy-to-use app is seamless for booking tickets for trains, buses, flights, ferries, and airport transfers so you can focus on the journey.

They’ve got 1,000+ trusted travel partners listed across the platform, giving you many choices and options to book the most direct route at the best price.

It’s quick, reliable and most importantly, Omio offers the best deals too. 

Our Favourite Feature:  The Omio app keeps your list of ‘upcoming journeys’, which is helpful to ensure your travel plans are organised.

Travel Tips & Inspiration

We love to share our knowledge of travelling, and you may enjoy reading our best-ever travel tips and our  ultimate packing list for travellers .

For food lovers, don’t miss our  top 10 best countries for foodies!  And, if you’re more interested in history, these  30 amazing historical places in the world  will fascinate you!

Perhaps you’re travelling on a budget? These  10 cheapest countries in Europe to visit  may be just the tool you need to start planning an epic trip.

But, here are  8 things to know about traveling to Eastern Europe  and it’s good to know these  7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe  too.

Or, perhaps these  21 Cheapest Countries to Visit Right Now  is just the thing you’ve been searching for.

We’ve got a bunch of  tips for how you can save money to travel the world , and even when you’re out there travelling, maybe these  20 jobs that PAY YOU to travel the world  will help you travel longer. It worked for us, and we bet it can work for you too.

Finally, these  top 6 travel hacks to save you money  are great to read when planning your travels.

And, if you’re planning a new trip, whether it’s for a week, a month, or even a few years, consider  buying an eSIM to stay connected . This is our favorite travel product, and you can read more about what is in eSIM and  why eSIM is so convenient for International Travel .

Check out the  travel gear we use on the road, and for the products and websites we use to plan new trips, head to our Travel Resources Page .

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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See all our expert Hints & Tips

1 Comment . Leave new

Heyy, very useful article, thanks! Perhaps to add on your list might also be this super useful app – ATM Fee Saver – gives ATM fees and withdrawal limits in many countries, really needed needed these days as atms abroad can become so expensive. Never seen anything like this before – it us sure to help lots of other international travellers like me!!!

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20 Best Outdoor Adventure Apps

Check out these outdoor apps for camping, hiking and trekking. Here you'll find help with navigation, first aid, survival guides and more.

Take on the Great Outdoors

When you're prepping for vacations, holidays, and hiking and camping trips, remember to take your trusty smartphone with you. It's an essential piece of survival gear, if you know what apps to preload. Without these key apps, you could get lost or hurt and be unable to call for help. Check out our top picks for awesome outdoor navigation, first aid and survival guide apps. ( Credit: Wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock )

AllTrails - Hiking & Biking (Android, iOS: Free)

Out for a hike? The AllTrails app (Android, iOS ) has got you covered with more than 50,000 trail guides for hiking, biking and more. Browse through the trail list or search for trails near you, look up trail reviews and write your own. AllTrails allows you to view topographic maps, photos and reviews. From within the trail, you can upload pictures taken on the trail, and even create and upload your own tracks using your phone's GPS tracker. An AllTrails Pro subscription allows you to download offline maps, print maps from AllTrails.com, create custom maps, and access additional map layers.

ViewRanger (Android, iOS: Free)

ViewRanger ( Android ,  iOS ) is another versatile GPS trail navigation app that offers both free and premium content. Users can download free maps and trails for offline navigation, while buying premium map data including USA and USGS Topo maps. There's also a premium "Skyline" augmented reality viewer that flags peaks, hills, and points of interest when you use your camera view. The app includes more than 180,000 trails, and users can print maps, import GPX files, track routes, plot points of interest, and view other important trip navigation stats.

MapMyHike (Android, iOS: Monthly or annual subscription)

MapMyFitness has an app for every outdoor activity under the sun, including hiking. MapMyHike (Android, iOS ) uses your phone's sensors to track and log your hiking route, complete with information on pace, distance, calorie counting and route navigation. In addition to logging your own hikes, you can also search and download other nearby routes. A premium subscription, starting at $5.99 per month, unlocks other features such as customized audio training cues, and real-time location sharing to friends and family with Live Track.

BackCountry Navigator (Android: $11.99)

Another excellent resource for offroad back country maps is BackCountry Navigator , an Android app that can take map data from a variety of free and paid sources for offline use. Users can add or import GPS waypoints, record a track, and display a variety of map layers and sources. The app can take maps from a variety of sources, such as from free maps like OpenStreetMap and Open Cycle Map, various official mapping agencies for selected regions worldwide, as well as premium sources.

Spyglass (Android, Free; iOS, $5.99)

Spyglass ( Android ,  iOS ) is a multipurpose GPS navigation and augmented reality viewfinding app that serves as a heads-up display with navigation details, a smart compass, and map display all rolled up into one mobile package. Users can download offline maps, navigate toward waypoints, get coordinates and find their way to locations. You can track your GPS location data, with altitude, course, and speed, track the sun and stars, use a rangefinder feature, and take measurements with the sextant, angular calculator and inclinometer tools. The app is premium on iOS, while a free version exists on Android. (In-app purchases unlock app features.)

Maps 3D Pro (iOS: $4.99)

Not everyone has the skill or training to properly read a topographic map, so  Maps 3D Pro  is a helpful navigation tool for those planning an outdoor hike in rugged terrain. As its name suggests, Maps 3D Pro projects maps on a 3D view, allowing users to much more easily interpret terrain features such as hills, ridges, trails, paths, and more. Users can plan, save, and share routes, pre-load maps for offline viewing and navigation, and record their trip complete with coordinates and elevation data. If you are planning to use your iPhone as a navigation tool though, make sure you're well supplied with power (and a battery pack) and/or have a good backup guide.

Komoot (Android, iOS: Free)

Komoot ( Android , iOS ) is another excellent option for hikers, cyclists and mountain bikers. The app is able to help you plan routes that are perfect for you. Users can lay down routes, view surface conditions, difficulty, distance and elevation, and the app also provides turn-by-turn navigation, even on winding outdoor trails. Komoot comes with offline map support, and free users can download one detailed map region for free forever, with in-app purchases unlocking more maps and features.

MSW Surf Forecast (Android, iOS: Free)

If you're looking to get some waves rather than hit the trails, then you might want to check out Magicseaweed.com's Surf Forecast app ( Android , iOS ), which delivers long range surf forecasts for thousands of beaches globally. Forecasts include a quick star rating summary of conditions, surf size, swell size, period, wind conditions and temperature. Users have access to 7-day forecasts, wind and tide station data, and live webcams for select beaches, as well as related media. Premium subscribers get extended forecasts and reduced ads.

Ramblr (Android, iOS: Free)

Outdoors types who like to document and journal everything about their trip should check out Ramblr ( Android , iOS ), a mobile journaling app designed for hikes and mountaineering trips. Ramblr allows users to record everything from their route, statistics such as average speed, distance traveled, and highest point, as well as record geotagged audio, video, pictures or text, allowing you to easily create a blow-by-blow account or relive the trip in the future. Additional features include built-in mapping, the ability to upload and share your trips, or check out where other Ramblr users have gone to.

Yonder (Android, iOS: Free)

Yonder ( Android , iOS ) allows users to easily share their hiking, biking and camping experiences with a global network of other lovers of the outdoors. Users can search or browse through a database of more than 200,000 destinations, follow other hikers to view their activity streams, or explore nearby locations through the map. It's great for finding out about nearby trails and routes, as well as an opportunity to network with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Strava (Android, iOS: Free)

Fancy an early morning run, or a mountain bike excursion? Strava Running and Cycling ( Android , iOS ) is a top-notch fitness tracker with running and cycling in mind, and the app adds some pretty neat competitive and gamified features to the usual run-tracking recipe. Strava records your running speed, distance traveled, time and course taken for both useful metrics and tracking, but combines all that with leaderboards, achievements and challenges as you race against your friends. Strava supports a variety of running trackers in addition to Android Wear and Apple Watch.

UVLens (Android, iOS: Free)

The Sun's ultraviolet rays can be a cause of skin diseases and cancer, so it's important to protect your skin with sunscreen to prevent stinging sunburns and reduce the risks of overexposure to the sun. UVLens ( Android , iOS ) is a feature-packed UV index forecast app and sunscreen calculater that lets you create a personalized skin profile for more accurate estimates of their sunburn risk, including estimated time before getting a sunburn on a given day, as well as recommended precautions. A UV index forecast can help suggest the best times of the day to be out, and a sunscreen reminder notifies you when it's time to reapply your sunscreen.

Cairn (iOS: Free)

Cairn is a outdoors safety app that does two things. First, it crowdsources information about where you can receive mobile signal on a map (and also logs your location). Second, it allows you to leave a trip plan with your friends. If you are ever overdue, your contacts are alerted, and are given a map of location data where you were tracked to. It allows you to plan ahead for areas on the trail with mobile coverage.

Weather Timeline (Android: $1.49) / Dark Sky (iOS: $3.99)

The weather can make or break a hike, so having a reliable weather forecast (preferably with hyperlocal weather alerts) can be a lifesaver. Dark Sky ( iOS ) and Weather Timeline ( Android ) are both excellent premium weather forecast apps for their respective platforms, providing extended forecasts, as well as hyperlocal, almost down-to-the-minute warnings of rainfall thanks to data taken from Forecast.io. With clean, no-nonsense, ad-free interfaces, both apps are great tools for travel planning and all-around weather forecast use.

Audubon Birds Pro (Android: $3.99; iOS: $9.99)

The Audubon Field Guides are a storied name in wildlife field guides, and they've also been adapted into mobile apps. The Audubon Birds Pro app (Android, iOS ) provides an incredibly detailed illustrated field guide that identifies 821 different bird species complete with recorded bird calls. Seasonal and migratory maps give you an idea of where to find particular species, while personalized accounts let you log bird sightings, keep a checklist, and share sightings over social media. A new Bird ID feature even helps you identify sightings, allowing users to enter information like color and size of a bird to help narrow down possible species.

Geocaching (Android, iOS: Free)

A modern day version of the Letterboxing game, Geocaching is a modern day treasure hunt where players hide caches of small items and tokens and then post the cache's GPS coordinates for other players to find, with more than 2 million active geocaches ongoing worldwide. The Geocaching.com app (Android, iOS) takes advantage of your phone's GPS features and map apps to provide a searchable database of geocaches, with recommendations for beginners, listings of nearby caches and numerous other features.

GPS Essentials (Android: Free)

GPS Essentials is a free Android GPS app that is filled to the brim with options, features, and widgets. A ridiculously configurable dashboard can be set to display a wealth of navigational and route data, while route and track functions let you set and manage waypoints on a map and import or export them into a variety of formats. An augmented reality HUD feature is even available, allowing for easier orienteering with the use of your smartphone camera as a viewfinder.

Star Walk (Android, iOS: $2.99)

Vito Technologies' Star Walk 2 ( Android , iOS ) is an augmented reality star chart that displays the stars and planets in the heavens above you. In addition, the app includes detailed information on the history and mythology of the various constellations, stars and planets, as well as a coordinates viewer for easy reference. A Time Machine slider lets you view the skies of the past or the future, and you can tap on individual objects for more details. A night mode allows you to stargaze without burning out your night vision, and an augmented reality view overlays the star chart over your camera view. It's a great app to have along on a clear night or when out camping.

First Aid - American Red Cross (Android, iOS: Free)

The American Red Cross' First Aid app (Android, iOS ) is a free (and ad-free) app that provides a wealth of basic first aid information for burns, injuries, and other medical emergencies that might arise. A "Learn" mode lets you read up on a type of injury, basic first aid treatment, and a Q&A section, while an Emergency mode dispenses with the extra information while providing concise first aid instructions in a single page, sometimes accompanied by videos and diagrams, as well as a one-button shortcut to call 911. Additional links allow you to sign up for first aid courses, buy first aid kits , donate or volunteer for the American Red Cross.

SAS Survival Guide (Android, iOS: $5.99)

Based on the bestselling book by John "Lofty" Wiseman, the paid SAS Suvival Guide app (Android, iOS ) contains the full text of the book optimized for mobile formats and covers a host of basic and advanced survival topics. It also includes extensive first aid information, as well as photo galleries of edible, medicinal, and poisonous plants. In addition, the app also allows you to download 16 instructional videos by the author. A survival quiz tests your knowledge, and helpful checklists assist in preparation. Additionally, the app includes a Morse code signalling function.

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The 10 Best Travel Apps For Adventure (2023 Edition)

In the age of smartphones and digital, tour apps have turned out to be indispensable gear for wanderers around the arena. From finding the best flight deals to navigating surprising cities, these apps have revolutionized the way we plan and revel in our adventures. In this blog post, we can introduce you to the 10 best travel apps that will decorate your adventure, make your tour-making plans extra green, and help you navigate new destinations like a seasoned traveller. Whether you are a common jet setter or an occasional explorer, those apps are positive to become you’re depended-on travel companions.

Table of Contents

1. Skyscanner – Best Travel Apps To Enhance Your Trip

Skyscanner is an effective flight seek engine that facilitates you in locating first-rate deals on airfare. This travel app lets you evaluate prices across multiple airlines and journey organizations, ensuring you get the maximum affordable flights for your favoured vacation spot. With its consumer-pleasant interface and bendy search options, you can without difficulty regulate your travel dates or discover nearby airports to discover the cheapest alternatives. Skyscanner also offers features like rate signals and a month view, permitting you to tune charge fluctuations and make informed decisions about your journey plans.

2. Google Maps

Google Maps is a must-have travel app for navigating strange cities and locations. With its accurate mapping data and vast coverage, it provides flip-via-flip directions, actual-time site visitor updates, and public transportation data. You can discover exclusive modes of transportation, consisting of walking, biking, or using public transit, and evaluate estimated journey instances. Google Maps additionally permits you to keep offline maps, so that you can get admission to them even without a web connection. Additionally, it provides treasured records approximately nearby points of interest, eating places, and opinions, supporting you are making the maximum of it slowly in a new area.

Airbnb is a popular accommodation travel app that gives a wide range of specific and low-cost accommodation options. Whether you’re looking for a cosy rental, a beachfront villa, or a captivating geographical region cottage, Airbnb has it all. The travel app allows you to filter out your seek based on your possibilities, price range, and favoured area. You can study reviews from previous guests, communicate with hosts, and e-book your accommodation immediately through the app. Airbnb offers an extra customized and actual tour revel, often at a lower value in comparison to standard hotels, making it a favourite desire for price range-conscious travellers.

TripIt is a comprehensive tour organizer that consolidates all of your journey itineraries in a single area. Simply forward your flight, lodge, automobile condominium, and activity confirmations to the travel app, and TripIt robotically creates an in-depth itinerary for you. It gives you all the essential facts, which include flight information, hotel reservations, and contact numbers, in a well-organized layout. TripIt also offers functions like actual-time flight signals, weather updates, and the ability to percentage your itinerary with family and friends. This app keeps you prepared and knowledgeable in the course of your adventure, doing away with the pressure of handling multiple travel files.

5. XE Currency

Currency conversion may be a mission whilst travelling to distinct nations. XE Currency is a reliable travel app that offers up-to-date change quotes, making sure you constantly recognise the cost of the nearby foreign money. It lets you add more than one currency and without difficulty convert among them, even in offline mode. XE Currency also functions as a historical price chart, which may be beneficial for tracking foreign money developments. With this app, you may expectantly make economic selections, know the approximate price of products and services, and avoid overpaying or falling victim to traveller scams.

6. Google Translate

Language obstacles can be a hurdle when travelling to foreign countries. Google Translate is an effective travel app that gives instant translations in over a hundred languages. It provides translations for text, voice, or even images, making it less difficult to communicate with locals and navigate unusual surroundings. The travel app additionally gives a communication mode, permitting you to have real-time bilingual conversations with the help of the speech reputation era. Google Translate is an invaluable tool for ordering food, inquiring for directions, or honestly undertaking significant conversations with humans from unique cultures.

7. Rome2rio

Rome2rio is an accessible travel app for making plans for your transportation routes. It gives complete statistics on diverse journey alternatives, such as flights, trains, buses, ferries, and driving routes. Simply input your starting place and vacation spot, and Rome2rio offers you more than one path recommendation, together with estimated travel instances and fees. It additionally gives alternative routes and lets you examine distinctive modes of transportation. Rome2rio ensures you have all of the facts you need to make knowledgeable decisions approximately your tour routes, saving you time, cash, and the trouble of navigating complex transportation networks.

8. TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is a pass-to app for tour thought, making plans, and locating guidelines from fellow tourists. It offers thousands and thousands of user-generated evaluations and scores for resorts, restaurants, sights, and more. With TripAdvisor, you can find hidden gems, avoid traveller traps, and locate the quality offers in any destination. The travel app additionally features journey boards, wherein you can ask questions, search for recommendations, and hook up with different travellers. Whether you’re searching out a pinnacle-rated eating place or off-the-overwhelmed-route points of interest, TripAdvisor offers treasured insights that could decorate your travel revel and help you make the maximum of your adventure.

9. Trail Wallet

Trail Wallet is a budgeting app specially designed for travellers. It facilitates you to calculate your costs, manipulate your price range, and live on the pinnacle of your spending while on the go. With its intuitive interface, you could without problems create categories, enter prices in distinctive currencies, and look at visible charts and summaries of your fees. Trail Wallet additionally allows you to set daily or experience budgets and afford notifications whilst you’re drawing close to your limits. By maintaining a near eye on your costs, you can stay inside your price range, make modifications if wished, and ensure economic peace of mind for the duration of your travels.

10. PackPoint

Packing successfully is crucial for any vacationer. PackPoint is a clever travel app that facilitates you to create customized packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, and planned activities. Simply enter your ride information, and Pack Point generates a checklist of essential items you will need to person, which includes clothing, toiletries, electronics, and more. The travel app takes into consideration factors like climate forecasts and the length of your experience to signify suitable items. You can customise the list, upload additional items, or even proportion it with fellow vacationers. Pack Point ensures you in no way forget the necessities and facilitates you to be smart for every journey.

These 10 best travel apps have revolutionised the manner we plan, navigate, and experience our trips. With those 10 should-have journey apps, you could streamline your travel-making plans, save cash, and make the maximum of your adventures. From finding low-priced flights and accommodations to navigating new cities, handling itineraries, and communicating through language barriers, these travel apps are vital equipment for each wanderer. So, make sure to download and make use of these apps for your next trip, and watch as they beautify your journey revel, making your journey smoother, extra prepared, and in the end extra fun.

Aiman Khalid

I’m Aiman Khalid, your dedicated SEO Analyst. With a passion for digital marketing and a keen eye for optimizing online experiences, I’ve made it my mission to help businesses thrive in the digital realm. My journey into the world of SEO began with a fascination for search engines and their algorithms, and since then, I’ve honed my skills to become a seasoned professional. Armed with years of experience, I specialize in crafting SEO strategies that not only boost search engine rankings but also drive tangible results, such as increased website traffic and conversions. I’m here to demystify the world of SEO and empower your online presence, one keyword at a time.

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Home » Travel Tips

The 21 Best Travel Apps to Download for Your Next Adventure

As much fun as it is to travel, some aspects of traveling can prove to be an absolute headache. From planning your trip to navigating your destination, much more is involved than you want to think about. So, don’t. The power of stress-free travel sits right in the palm of your hand with some of the best travel apps for organizing your itinerary, packing your bags, getting through security, and so much more. If you’re ready for the stress-free adventure of a lifetime, then get ready to download your new favorite travel companions.

Table of Contents

The best travel apps for planning and organizing, the best travel apps for navigating the airport, the best travel apps for your destination.

• The Best Travel Apps for Staying Safe 

The Best Travel Apps for Saving Money

The best travel app for cheap flight deals isn’t an app: it’s next vacay.

Find the perfect flight, plan the perfect route, and pack the perfect bag. Here are the best travel apps to add to your trip planning and organizing for a stress-free travel experience.

Google Travel

Google is a one-stop shop for all your most important search needs, so why shouldn’t that extend to travel, too? Lucky for us, it does. With Google Travel, you can explore flight prices, compare hotel rates, and even check out exciting sights and excursions at your destination.

If you easily get app fatigue, Google Travel keeps things simple by having all your travel needs in one convenient location. You can toggle between the different pages with ease and track hotel and flight price changes with their tracking features. For those just dipping their toes into the world of travel planning, Google Travel puts the world within reach. Even better, because it’s not technically an app, you don’t have to worry about downloading it to use. Just type Google Travel into the search and get right to work.

Feature Highlight: Get the best flight price guaranteed with Google’s price guarantee badge. (If the price drops, Google will pay back the difference.) 

If you’re a disorganized traveler—or even better, if you love staying organized—say hello to your new best friend. TripIt was designed for both the organized and unorganized traveler, helping you build comprehensive itineraries out of all your messy bookings. 

For those who hate doing anything beyond clicking “Book Now,” TripIt makes organization easy by allowing you to forward all your booking confirmations to the app. Or, if you’re particularly fussy about every little detail, you can manually enter them yourself. TripIt then compiles all your bookings into a handy-dandy itinerary that sends out reminders and alerts, letting you know where you need to be and when you need to be there for the most relaxed trip of your life every time.

Feature Highlight: Share your itinerary with friends and family quickly and easily through TripIt’s sharing feature.

IOS | Android

Roadtrippers

While Roadtrippers is specific to road travel, we couldn’t leave it off the list of best travel apps simply because of how stellar it is at what it does. With stops available in the US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, plotting out your autoroutes has never been easier. 

The map lets you explore everything from national parks to hidden gems and plan everything from what to eat to where to stop for fuel and even rest your head at night, all along your route. When you add a site, Roadtrippers automatically adjusts your itinerary, or you can choose to plot your course from one of the pre-made trip guides.  

The free version allows you to plan short trips of three stops or less, while the Premium version costs $59.99/year and allows you to add up to 150 stops. 

Feature Highlight: Get estimated gas prices along your route so you can put away the right amount for your gas budget.  

Packing often isn’t the worst part about your travel—it’s making packing lists. So, skip it. 

Instead of stressing over what to pack for a beach vacation or a winter getaway, you can let PackPoint do it for you. The app works by creating custom packing lists for your trip. All you have to do is fill out the important bits: 

• Where you’re going
• When you’re going
• How long you’ll be gone
• Any special activities

From there, PackPoint goes to work to create a custom-fitted packing list for your travels. All that’s left for you to do is pack—and maybe share it with a friend, so they don’t have to suffer the joyless task of creating their own packing list.

Feature Highlight: Connect to TripIt to auto-create packing lists from your trip itinerary. (Only available with PackPoint Premium.)

Get Secret Flight Deals

Is the airport stress stressing you out? Rest assured, you don’t have to dread the airport. With the right apps, you can become an airport pro. Make getting through security a breeze and make your time at the airport your favorite part of travel—or at least, your most relaxed.

MyTSA App 

Ever had a last-minute question about what you can bring in your carry-on? Ever argued with your travel buddies about how early is too early to get to the airport? For the answers to your burning questions, there’s the MyTSA App. Before even stepping foot in the building, you can check out how busy the airport typically is and the projected wait times for TSA checkpoints. Consult the app for delays and double-check how to properly store your food and liquid items so you can all but breeze through security. Next to TSA PreCheck, the MyTSA App is your ticket to an easy and stress-free security check.

Feature Highlight: Use the “Can I Bring” search function to check that those last-minute items you’re packing will clear security. 

LoungebBuddy

Long layovers, hard steel chairs, outlets that don’t work—there’s a lot to dread about your airport experience. So skip the endless hours in uncomfortable seats and make the most of your time on the ground with LoungeBuddy. 

LoungeBuddy is the perfect companion for frequent flyers who spend a fair amount of time waiting for their next flight. With the app, travelers can access over 2,000 airport lounges worldwide, allowing them to see which lounges are available at their airports and what amenities they offer. Don’t already have access through your travel credit card, lounge memberships, or booked ticket? Fear not; LoungeBuddy lets users book access directly through the app. So, no matter where you go, if you’re flying first class or economy, you can always look forward to a premium airport experience every time.

Feature Highlight: Reserve an entrance pass to your lounge months in advance, so you have peace of mind you can enjoy a peaceful escape on the go. 

Airline App

When navigating the airport, from tracking your flight to hunting down your luggage, there’s no better app to have than your airline’s mobile app. While you may not necessarily want to download the app for every airline you use, if you’re a frequent flyer with one airline or flying with a new airline for the first time, it can be especially helpful for managing your account and getting to know the ins and outs of your airport experience with the airline.

Perhaps best of all, these travel apps are always free.

Feature Highlight: Use the navigation maps to scope out where to grab food, where to shop, and, most importantly, where to find your gate.

AA | Delta | United | JetBlue | Southwest

Mobile Passport Control

Operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Mobile Passport Control is a free app that lets you sail through customs upon return to the US. Whereas lengthier programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry require a background check, interview, and preapproval, all you need for MPC is proof of citizenship or permanent residence. 

With ID in hand, simply download the app and fill out your info. When you touchdown in the US, start your entry process. All it takes is a few clicks, and you get access to an expedited entry that helps you skip the long lines you’ve come to dread and makes returning to the US even easier than it was to leave.

Feature Highlight: Select up to 12 members of your family to include on one submission form. 

Never fear getting lost or turned around again—or finding yourself in need of a public restroom with none in sight. Run, don’t walk, to these apps that will make navigating your destination and staying connected truly effortless.  

Google Maps

Google Maps is hard to beat for getting around your destination. Offering a bird’s eye view of where you are, Google Maps breaks down how best to get to where you want to go, whether traveling by foot, car, public transit, or even bicycle. 

Travelers can easily find what’s around them, from bars and restaurants to shops and attractions. You don’t even have to leave the app to get more details for most places. Google Maps provides descriptions, pictures, hours of operation, and even reviews from other patrons. The real clincher is the ability to save maps offline so you can access them on the go, whether your cell service is spotty at best or entirely nonexistent. 

Feature Highlight: Use saved “Lists” to curate a map of pinned locations—your favorite attractions, restaurants, bars, and more.

Sometimes, you don’t need all the extra frills; you just need an app that gets you where you need to go. For that, there’s Citymapper. 

While its scope is limited to cities—and major cities at that—Citymapper makes navigating big and confusing cities, including those hardest to navigate , a breeze—or as close as the directionally challenged are likely to get. With real-time public transportation information, detailed breakdowns of routes by bus, train, tube, car, bike, or scooter, and detailed directions for things like which subway station entrance is best, Citymapper makes the big city feel just that teensy bit smaller.

Feature Highlight : Check out your Trip Stats to see fun details like how many calories you burned and how much money you saved on your journey.

XE Currency Converter

Want to know the exchange rate while you’re traveling around Sweden? Japan? New Zealand? With Xe, you can always stay on top of your money and know exactly how far your money will go wherever you are. The app also works without Wi-Fi, so you don’t have to worry about losing this information, either. It stays at your fingertips whether online in a cafe or offline and on the go. 

Feature Highlight: Save and monitor up to 10 currencies at once to quickly and easily check the exchange rate while shopping, dining, or booking that last-minute excursion on-site.

WhatsApp, for the uninitiated, is a lot like iMessage: It lets you text and make calls over Wi-Fi no matter where you are in the world or what device your friends or family use. In addition, the app offers a few other helpful features. WhatsApp Statuses let you keep your family and friends up-to-date on what you’re doing. The group texting feature lets you share polls to vote on what you want to do next. And sharing features allow you to attach documents like travel itineraries and bookings without having to email them. While there’s no best messaging app in the world, WhatsApp is a great start to connecting with everyone anywhere you travel.

Not only is the app free, but it also helps you save money on international messaging fees by letting you avoid them altogether.

Feature Highlight: Share daily moments from your travels with your family on Status. 

Google Translate

At this point, it shouldn’t be a surprise to see another Google app eking out a top spot among the best travel apps. As if getting around in a new country wasn’t hard enough, not knowing the local language can make something as simple as reading street signs confusing. That’s not a problem with Google Translate. 

Manually enter text into the translator to convert it to your native language, or snap a photo and have it translated that way. You can even have the text read to you so you know how to pronounce it correctly. And, of course, if you’re trying to communicate with someone, you can switch the languages to know what to say and how to say it. This makes understanding the world easy, no matter how confusing the street signs get.

Feature Highlight: Download your favorite languages to use offline.

In the immortal words of Jeff Goldblum in Jurassic Park: “When you gotta go, you gotta go.” When you need a restroom while you’re on the go, knowing where to find the closest toilet can be a lifesaver. Flush offers a database of over 200,000 public toilets worldwide. The app lets you know how to get to the closest one, whether there’s a fee, and if the restroom is ADA-accessible. When it comes down to the wire, this app may just save your day, if not your whole trip!

The Best Travel Apps for Staying Safe

Staying safe on the go is just as important as staying safe at home, whether you’re a female traveler going it solo or another in a group of travelers. Be sure to put downloading these travel apps at the top of your to-do list for the best travel experience and a worry-free trip. 

Smart Traveler

Every smart traveler knows that the best way to stay safe while traveling is to do your due diligence beforehand. For that, there’s the Smart Traveler App. Overseen by the U.S. State Department, the app allows travelers to check travel advisories, entry and exit requirements, health and safety warnings, and more before you even start booking your trip. 

Once you settle on your destination, you can register your trip with local embassies through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and stay one step ahead of emergencies. Become a smart traveler and give yourself some much-needed peace of mind while traveling abroad. 

In the US, 911 is the standard number to call for emergencies. But as any international traveler will know, that’s not always the case abroad. Emergency numbers can differ from country to country and even service to service. And the last thing you want in an emergency is to realize you don’t know who to call. That’s why you download EchoSOS. 

With emergency numbers in over 128 countries, you can quickly and easily access the right number to get help when you need it. Calls can be made directly from the app and show your location, so even if you don’t know where you are, emergency services will. Travel safely and stress-free, with help just a call away.

Feature Highlight: Find nearby emergency rooms and check out their wait times to get help fast on the go.

You might wonder just how safe an app can keep you on your travels. It is only an app after all. But bSafe isn’t just any app. While others might also show where you are in real-time, bSafe takes it a step further with live streaming, so friends and family (added as guardians) can see and hear everything that’s happening. If you find yourself in an unsafe situation, you can activate the SOS alarm. This will immediately start video and audio recording, and send a notification to your guardians. They can then open the alert to see your location, local time, and emergency livestream. Once the danger has passed, you can confirm you’re safe, and the app will again notify your guardians.

With voice activation, a Follow me feature, and a timer alarm, you’ll truly never have to make a journey alone again.

Feature Highlight: Schedule a fake phone call to escape uncomfortable or unsafe situations.

The only thing simpler than getting help with a phone call is getting help with the press of a button. Touted as America’s number one safety app, Noonlight helps you get from point A to point B safely by acting as your personal panic button. If you encounter an unsafe situation or even one that makes you feel uneasy, just open the Noonlight app and hold the button. Once you release it, help will be on the way shortly. But, if there’s no danger, or you reach safety, you can release the button, enter a 4-digit PIN, and be on your way. 

Feature Highlight: Use Timeline to note relevant details, like meeting someone new or an encounter with a suspicious person, to have it shared with authorities if you trigger an alarm.

Always looking for ways to cut down on your travel budget? Say hello to your new favorite cost-conscious travel buddies who can help you find the best deals and the cheapest prices no matter where you are in the world.

Obi: Rideshare

Every traveler, at some point, has wondered if they’re overpaying to get from point A to point B. But outside of downloading every app and comparing prices, there’s not much to do about it—except maybe download just one app. 

With Obi, travelers can compare prices between rideshares like Uber, Lyft, and taxi services to save money. Simply choose a destination, compare prices between available transportation companies, and book. Enjoy the cheapest ride every time with Obi in your pocket.

ATM Fee Saver

Don’t have a handy travel card that reimburses your ATM fees? You don’t have to consider yourself unlucky, just consider downloading the ATM Fee Saver as your budget-conscious travel companion. The ATM Fee Saver helps you find free and low-fee ATMs near you so you can get the cash you need in a hurry without paying a fortune to access your own money. Users can get tips on using ATMs in over 45 countries and chart a course for the closest and cheapest ATM to get money fast while on the go.

Feature Highlight: Use the calculator to estimate any fees for your ATM withdrawal amount.

Ready to hit the road? GasBuddy makes it easier and cheaper than ever. With the app, travelers can search for the cheapest gas prices along their route, get tips on using less gas, and even score free gas rewards from shopping at favorite retailers. With GasBuddy, you can stop worrying about running out of gas or paying more at the pump and simply enjoy the ride.

Feature Highlight: Track your driving habits to make future trips more fuel-efficient and save at the pump.

Want to get the cheapest flight deals to destinations all over the world? Try out Next Vacay. It’s as easy as downloading your favorite app without taking up more precious phone storage. Just enter your email, select your airport, and you can get deals delivered right to your inbox. Never miss an incredible deal or a life-changing trip ever again. So sign up and discover the best way to save time, money, and stress—because the best travel app isn’t an app at all; it’s Next Vacay .

Related Posts

Six Essential Adventure Travel Apps

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 6th October 2023

Since arriving in South America, I’ve trawled the net for the most essential adventure travel apps.

It quickly became apparent that what works in Europe, the States or other parts of the globe just doesn’t work here.

A lack of internet connectivity or availability of maps for the area, means that camping apps, trekking apps, or any apps advertised by enthusiastic tech geeks as being perfect for any adventure are, well , not.

To put it bluntly, I’ve found that they just don’t work.

I’m basing this reflection on my experiences travelling in Bolivia and Peru, but I’ve seen how a frustratingly few number of travel apps cater sufficiently to the needs of adventure travellers in South America.

But there are  some .

Although I’m certainly no tech expert, as a traveller with a penchant for adventure – and the daughter of two computer programmers – I want to ensure that I have the best travel apps for getting me out of sticky situations, or helping me to avoid them in the first place.

So from my experiences thus far in South America, these are my favourite – and what I believe are the most essential – adventure travel apps, all of which are available free for both android and iPhone.

Click to navigate this article:

Maps.Me  – maps wherever, whenever

This app works on the principle of providing you with maps wherever you go and – what is surely the holy grail of adventure app needs – without needing an internet connection.

Thanks to GPS and maps that are downloaded as part of the app, it will tell you where you are, anywhere in South America.

I’ve been using it across Peru and have been impressed by the coverage of the maps. It’s perfect for when you’re on a bus and want to know that you’re approaching your destination.

What’s more, these maps cover roads and footpaths. For trekking and hiking throughout South America where the footpaths are notoriously had to follow and maps are dreadful, this app is indispensable.

Requires internet connection? No

iOverlander  – looking for a campsite?

iOverlander is an app that has been established to help the overlanding community (those travelling by land, normally in a jeep) to share campsites, fuel stops and other useful facilities along the route, all presented to the user in a handy, easily-navigable map.

Any person with the app or who accesses the information via their website can edit, update and add to this database, making it a much more reliable and up-to-date resource than other apps or guidebooks.

For those search for a camping app, not only does it list official sites (something admittedly few and far between in Bolivia and Peru), but also wild camping spots that were found and enjoyed by a previous traveller.

Overlanders can review the different locations, leave specific GPS locations and amenity lists and leave feedback for the benefit of other adventure travellers.

One of the best things about this app is its impressive coverage in South America, second to none in terms of its scope.

And if you want more information about overlanding as a form of adventure travel, check out the WikiOverland site which is an encyclopaedia of overlanding.

Requires internet connection? Yes

GPS Status and Toolbox  – get your GPS up to speed

If you’ve downloaded any of my other recommended apps which require fast GPS, this is another essential adventure travel app.

By downloading AGPS data (Assisted GPS Data), GPS Status and Toolbox enables other devices to find local satellites quicker and therefore pinpoint your exactly location much more rapidly. It also has a handy compass.

Super Bright LED Flashlight  – need a light?

I can’t count the number of times I’ve been in need of light and my head torch hasn’t been to hand.

There are hundreds of torch options (and many models of phone now come with one already installed), but Super Bright LED Flashlight has served me well at every opportunity.

First Aid British Red Cross  – learn basic first aid for an emergency

I’ve been injured while adventuring far from the nearest town, and the only saving grace was that my friends had a working knowledge of first aid.

Now while this first aid app isn’t perfect – for example, most of the steps for dealing with emergencies end in ‘call 999’ which I can’t imagine being very useful in the middle of South America – it gives some useful information for dealing with different situations.

Personally, I think that having a passable understanding of basic first aid before you travel is definitely a good idea. While this app isn’t going to plug many gaps in your knowledge, it might still be useful in an emergency.

SAS Survival Guide Lite  – prepare for any trip into the unknown

While I’ve yet to be in the position to need it, this is an essential adventure travel app which deals with extreme survival situations.

Not only this, but it covers research, planning and equipment before your trip into the unknown, thus aiming to help you avoid the need for putting your newly acquired survival skills into action.

It also has the facility for making a checklist before embarking on an expedition, including what should be in your survival kit, survival pouch and medical kit.

Even if you’re unlikely to be getting yourself into the position where you would need survival tips, SAS Survival Guide Lite is a really interesting read and the free version is basically a series of chapters taken from the million-copy bestselling book SAS Survival Guide.

Let me know your experiences with any of these essential adventure travel apps in the comments section below. And if you’ve come across South American compatible adventure travel apps (or those that are great for Bolivia and Peru) which I’ve not mentioned, please share them with the adventure travel community.

Sunday 12th of November 2023

Steph, can't thank you enough for this article. We just came back from 10 days on the Carretera Austral + the W trek, and Maps.Me was an absolutely essential app that came in super handy several times when trails were not precisely marked. Would highly recommend to everyone else as well.

Steph Dyson

Thursday 23rd of November 2023

Thanks Dov, that's great to hear! Steph

Nabin baniya

Monday 29th of July 2019

wonderful tips for adventure. thanks for a wonderful post.

Saturday 16th of April 2016

I'm definitely going to check out Maps.me! That would've been super helpful when I was backpacking in South America last year! Also, I'm in love with your feature photo at the top. Beautiful.

Yes you definitely should Heather, it is a wonderful app - so useful for working out where the hell you need to get off the bus...! Pleased you love the picture too, although I will admit I didn't take it :( Thanks for stopping by!

24 Super Smart Apps for Your Next Adventure

Super smart apps come in handy every day while you travel—whether you need to find a place to eat, translate a road sign, or figure out how to map yourself to a famous landmark.

Travel experts agree—super smart apps are a must-have for your next adventure. Whether you are planning adventure close to home or abroad, every traveler needs the best travel apps.

Table of Contents

Why Are Smart Apps Travel Must-Haves?

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Downloadable travel apps that TRAVEL EXPERTS recommend might just come to the rescue when you need to pinpoint the nearest restroom for your three year old! And fast!

These smart apps are also essential in helping you travel smart as you:

• Navigate with maps in a new city
• Find a highly recommended restaurant close to your accommodations
• Map your travel from one charming European village to another
• Adjust to jet lag
• Make currency conversions
• Translate to your language
• Enjoy an audio tour
• Find a free camping spot
• Discover a hiking trail nearby

If you are like many travelers, you rely on your smartphone ALL. OF. THE. TIME. Even more so when you travel. Your phone, along with top travel apps, often becomes your lifeline to your travel logistics and enjoying the ideal vacation.

What makes a good app great for travel ?

• It is user friendly
• It has a search function
• It preserves battery life

If you need help in the VACATION PLANNING STAGES, discover the essential travel planning apps that experts recommend. These useful travel apps are designed to enhance your vacation and help you organize your planning information, save you time and money, and lower your stress levels.

Travel Smart with Map Apps

Charu from Travel with CG recommends…

Been track the number of countries and continents you have visited and helps plan future trips as Been clearly showcases where you still need to go for your next adventure.

The app even has a 3D animated globe that is automatically customized according to the countries you tick off. Play around and see the highlighted countries you have visited or even share your map with friends and family!

The interface of Been is quite user-friendly. Been is available for free for both iOS and Android users (iOS version of the app also allows users to track all the states in the USA).

Get the Been App

2. City Mapper

Lyndsay from Purposely Lost recommends…

I find Citymapper is essential if a traveler needs to use a city’s public transportation network. 

Citymapper is one of the smart apps that helps people plan their trips by allowing users to find the fastest way to travel between two points of interest.

Citymapper is designed to help commuters navigate through the city .

When you open the app, there will be an option to choose where you want to go, or you can add and select a location from your list of saved places. Then, it’ll tell you all the different routes you can take to get from where you are to where you need to go, using every mode of public transportation available to you.

Citymapper also factors in any trams, ferries, bikes, and ridesharing options available besides the standard bus, subway, or car route.

If you don’t have cell service, you’ll still be able to see your saved places and view official transportation maps offline.

The best part? Citymapper is entirely free to use on unlimited trips throughout more than eighty cities around the world the app supports. From  navigating the New York City subway  to the vaporetto in Venice, Italy, Citymapper will be able to get you there!

Get the Citymapper App

3. Google Maps

Catherine from Savvy Family Travel recommends…

Google Maps is my go to way to travel smart and save points of interest around the world. Whenever a destination, restaurant, or experience catches my attention, I save it to Google Maps by categorizing it with a label. This creates color coded ‘pins’ around the world overlaid on the map.

When I have the travel itch, but struggle to narrow down my next adventure, I scroll through Google Maps to find clusters of saved attractions or pins along a potential road trip path. 

With these “pins,” it is easy to plan efficient routes, preferred lodging locations, and ideal arrival airports or stations. Once I book transportation and accommodation I save them under custom label categories , ie., lodging, laundromats, airport or train station locations. These help me find my way around while I’m on my trip.  

Another handy feature of Google Maps when traveling to remote areas or internationally is the offline maps function. Make sure to “download” a map area so you can navigate even when you do not have cell service. 

Of all my most downloaded smart apps for travel, Google Maps is by far the most used year round and all the features mentioned are absolutely free.

Get Google Maps on iOS and Android

Waze is an essential travel app that provide real-time driving directions and alerts, crowd sourced from fellow drivers. Waze will direct you to the most efficient route to get to your destination, alert you to police presence, and provide suggestions for routing around construction, accidents, unanticipated delays… even protestors. 

Chris and I used WAZE extensively in France during the Yellow Vest Movement in 2018. It was efficient in routing us around road blocks and protestors. 

Get the Waze App on iOS and Android

Popular Travel Apps for Audio Tours

5. guidealong audio tours.

Chris and I love the  GuideAlong  app that provides narrated audio tours for road trips and scenic drives. We have listened to the guide in Yosemite , Big Sur , and the Great Smoky Mountains NP .

As you drive along, the GPS signal determines your location and when you pass a pre-determined point, the commentary from the app plays pre-recorded content automatically.

Each audio tour that you purchase from the GuideAlong app is yours to keep. Forever.

Examples of the In-App Audio Tour Bundles :

• Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks 
• US Northern Parks Tours
• Grand Circle and California
• Canadian Rockies and Vancouver
• All United States West Tours
• Hawaii Road to Hana Tour

Get the GuideAlong Audio Tours app for your next adventure.

6. Rick Steves Audio Europe Tours

Chris and I love these FREE Rick Steves Audio Europe Tours . Our girls? Not as much.

You will want to download the specific tours while you have WiFi and don’t forget headphones. Our family listens on separate devices and communicates with each other to “Start now” so everyone stays in sync.

Get the Rick Steves Audio Europe Tours App

Restaurant Suggestions Apps

7. happy cow—vegan travel app.

Kaitlyn of Carry On Only recommends…

Happy Cow is a FREE vegan travel app that makes it easy to find the best vegan options wherever you’re traveling. The app uses crowd-sourced information to create a complete guide to vegan dining in countries all over the world. You can search by cuisine, location, or even by the type of establishment that’s offering vegan dishes.

Find vegan ice cream in Chiang Mai, vegan smoothie bowls in Borneo, or vegan pizza in Bali!

Download this app before your next adventure and search for the available vegan options at your next destination so you’re prepared ahead of time. I also search for vegan options close to my accommodation so I’m not traveling too far out of my way for breakfast or dinner.

Get the Happy Cow App

Alex of Travels and Baffles recommends…

When you’re hoping to quickly find the best place to eat on your vacation, Yelp can truly be your best friend.

Yelp is a FREE crowd-sourced app where users can leave reviews on certain places they’ve been to, including restaurants, attractions, hotels, and more!

Yelp makes it so easy to find the meal you’re craving that also fits your budget. Results can be sorted by distance, price, rating, most reviewed, and more.

This is an excellent way to figure out which places the locals love to eat at rather than hoping for the best when unknowingly walking into a tourist trap. After finding the perfect restaurant for you, try using Yelp to figure out what the next attraction is that you are going to visit!

Get the Yelp App for iOS and Android

Best Travel Apps for Road Trips

9. ioverlander.

Anna from Anna Tee recommends…

One of the most helpful smart apps for traveling is iOverlander. This is the best app when it comes to finding free camping all over the world! Whether you’re tent camping, car camping, driving a van or an RV, or anything in between, the app will show you options for places to spend the night.

iOverlander is great because it allows travelers to contribute—so people add locations all the time. And anytime you look at a campsite, you can see reviews, photos, and comments from people who have been there! The app includes everything from remote campsites in national forests , to rest stops and convenient pull offs when you’re looking for a quick place to spend the night. 

The app is completely free, and easy to use! Along with campsites, the app also has helpful information like nearby tourist attractions for your next adventure, places to get water, restaurants, laundromats, and showers—all things that can be amazing for travelers to know.

When you use the app, be sure to contribute your own notes about campsites you check out, or add new places to help the community!

Get the iOverlander App

10. Roadtrippers

Alex from Wander with Alex recommends…

If you’re searching for the perfect  road trip planning app , you’ll want to check out Roadtrippers. Available on iPhone, Android, and online, Roadtrippers combines all the best features for all your road trip planning needs. It’s an all-in-one solution that is convenient and easy to use.

Roadtrippers will not only allow you to map out your trip but also provides guided navigation and suggestions for stops on your next adventure. And even more importantly, Roadtrippers will estimate your fuel costs. Other popular features of the app include hotel and tour bookings and pre-made trip guides.

The free version of Roadtrippers is enough for basic road trips. But if you’re looking to plan a big trip with more than 150 stops, you’ll need to subscribe to the paid version for a modest $29.99/year. Roadtrippers Plus will allow you more waypoints, give you live traffic updates, allow you to share your routes with other road-trippers, download maps offline, and browse ad-free.

Get the Roadtrippers App

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures Apps

11. alltrails.

Debbie of World Adventurists recommends…

AllTrails is a great app to find outdoor adventure all around the world. With over 300,000 curated trails, it’s easy to find the perfect hike, bike ride, or running route for any level of adventurer. Plus, the Alltrails app makes it easy to share your favorite trails with your friends, so you can all enjoy the outdoors together.

And if you’re ever feeling lost on a trail, the app’s GPS tracking feature is one of the smart apps that will help you find your way back. Whether you’re looking for a new place to explore or just want to stay safe on your next hike, be sure to download the AllTrails app. You’ll also find recent comments on trail conditions to help keep you well informed.

The app is great for trip planning or using on the go when you find yourself with some extra time at a destination. You can create folders to keep your trail finds organized and easy to find.

To be able to download maps to be used offline, you do need to purchase a membership for $29.99 year. The basic membership is free to use.

Get the AllTrails App

Morgan from Crave the Planet recommends…

Komoot makes finding hidden nature gems  so easy when traveling in Europe. This freemium app allows travelers to get local insights into places that are off the beaten path.

The Komoot collections include adventures for people who want to hike castle to castle, walk alongside the Portuguese coastline, cross over the Alps from Germany to Austria to Italy and more.

It focuses on the adventure and nature travel crowd with categories for hiking, biking,    mountain biking, bikepacking, running, biketouring and road cycling.

This includes GPS maps, integrated social features, downloadable maps, voice navigation, and free lifelong map updates. 

Travel smart and download the app for free. You’ll have detailed maps available offline for one region. If you want to upgrade it costs $3.99 for a single region, bundles are $8.99 and the whole world costs $29.99. 

Get the Komoot App for iOS and Android

Useful Social Travel Apps

Maud of GoWhee.com recommends…

Gowhee is a game-changer when it comes to finding things to do with kids during our trips. I use it a few times a week for small outings near my home, but almost daily when planning or during a trip. I love that I can find places all over the world to keep my six-year old entertained. Use it to browse for inspiration from my phone or my computer, to find cool hidden gems, and help me choose my next destination.

The app costs $29.99/year but between the time and frustration I save, and the discounts Gowhee offers, I think it’s a great value and easily pays for itself. 

Get the GoWhee App

14. Tango Partner

Cris from LooknWalk recommends…

Are you a passionate Argentine tango dancer? Then, for sure you’ve already mixed traveling for fun with attending tango events (festivals, marathons), practices, parties (milongas), or classes.

Imagine this scenario: you arrive at an  amazing place to dance , and you really want to tango tonight (but you haven’t signed up for an event beforehand). What do you do?

Step in Tango Partner —an easy-to-use app that features dancers from across the world. It’s free to use and you can browse, in real time, dancers that are near you, as well as all kinds of Tango events listed in the app! How cool is that?

I discovered it a while ago and have already used it both to add the classes I teach and to look up dancers and events locally as well as when I travel. Make sure your location is on and start browsing. Send “cabeceo” to dancers you are interested in and also message them if you have questions or want to say hi.

Get the Tango Partner App

15. Touchnote

Eloise from My Favourite Escapes recommends…

“I love using TouchNote to send postcards or a card for a special occasion when traveling,” says Eloise.

Real postcards are lovely. But you may struggle to find the perfect greeting card while traveling. Or you sometimes lack time to figure out how many stamps to buy or add the post office to your itinerary. Or maybe you don’t want your card to take weeks to get delivered. TouchNote is amazing for sending personalized postcards in just a few clicks.

You can design your own cards using their templates and the photos on your phone. It’s also easy to save addresses on your phone and make your next card even easier to send. Delivery only takes a few days.

It’s a fantastic way to tell your loved ones you’re thinking about them during your trip.

Every traveler needs this free app, but you’ll have to buy credits or a membership to send cards, for the stamp, or a little extra for some special card designs and illustrations.

Get the Touchnote App

16. WhatsApp

WhatsApp Messenger , also known as WhatsApp, is a messaging platform that allows you to stay in touch with family and friends as you travel with text and make video calls via the internet.

This is one of the travel must-haves if you are traveling internationally.

Get WhatsApp

Travel Apps for Finances

17. currency.

Jori from The Tejana Abroad recommends…

Currency is your new favorite app for currency conversion. Every traveler needs the Currency app; it completely changes your travel game! With Currency, you view any currency from all over the world and what its current market value is.

You can add 5 at one time, so if you’re traveling through many countries and are getting a bit confused, you can see all the different currencies and compare their values side by side. 

The app is totally FREE and probably one of my most used smart apps!

Get the Currency App

18. Splitwise

Lana from Wallflower in Wanderland recommends…

Back in 2018-2019, I travelled  12 countries with my best friend . In our first country, we were left not knowing who owed who or who paid for what, including everything from taxi fares to spontaneous activities. 

Splitwise is among one of the best smart apps for travel.

My friend and I created a different “group” for each country, so that we could keep track of our budgets.

After making an expense, you can upload them and add information such as the amount, what it was (i.e., tour reservation, Uber, dinner), who paid, the date, and a photo of the receipt. You can either pay the person back as you go via Venmo or Paypal, or at the end of your trip by clicking “settle up”. 

We loved the ability to choose from over 100 currencies when adding an expense, as it meant we could add amounts using the local currency rather than having to search and figure it out in GBP each time. 

Splitwise is an essential free travel app for couples, group trips, or friend travel (there is also an add-free premium version). It enables you to manage all your shared expenses and minimizes stress and arguments.

Get the Splitwise App

Travel Must-Haves to Make Life Easier

Sydney from A World in Reach recommends…

If you’re planning a trip abroad and want to make sure you have cheap mobile data on your phone, every travel needs to make sure to download Airalo from the app store before a trip.

Airalo is an eSIM marketplace , which lets you buy eSIMs for countries around the world, which you can then install on your phone to have data through a local service provider. An eSIM is essentially a digital SIM—there is no physical SIM card that you have to install in your device.

There are different Airalo eSIM packages to choose from, depending on what countries you’ll be visiting and for how long. If you’re visiting just one country, you can pick a country-specific eSIM valid for the duration of your trip. If you’re going to be country-hopping, one of the regional eSIMs that covers multiple countries would be better for you. Single-country eSIMs start around $5.

Before purchasing your Airalo eSIM, make sure that your device is capable of installing an eSIM. Airalo has a guide to check compatibility before you buy.

Get the Airalo App

20. Flush Toilet Finder App

Comical yet brilliant, travel smart with the Flush app to help you find toilets worldwide! Perfect for road trips or any vacation in an unfamiliar area, this useful app is a game changer that every traveler needs. Flush boasts tens of thousands of public restrooms in its database and the app is completely free.

Simply download the app, ensure your location services are on, and Flush will find public restrooms near you. Once you find a restroom near you, the app will use Google Maps to help you navigate to the location. But it doesn’t stop there. Flush will also tell you if there is a fee or key required, as well as if the restroom is handicap accessible.

Whether you’re on a Big Sur road trip or walking around  southern Italy , when it’s time to go, Flush has you covered!

Get the Flush App

21. Google Translate

Jessica from Uprooted Traveler recommends…

Whether you’re traveling from La Fortuna to Lisbon, Google Translate is one of the travel must-haves for any frequent traveler. The Google Translate app is packed with features, helping you navigate the world where you don’t understand the language. 

One of the coolest features is that you can download languages so you can access translation tools while you don’t have internet access.

Additionally, there’s a number of ways you can use the app to translate words to communicate or understand the language around you. You can type, write, or speak something from your native language into the language of your choice, which can be invaluable whether you’re trying to order food from a street vendor or communicate with your Airbnb host.

Alternatively, you can take a photo of text in another language to have it translated into your native tongue (as a vegan, I used this feature all of the time while in Japan to see what kinds of ingredients were included in food), or translate web pages on your phone into your language of choice. 

Google Translate is an incredible (and totally free!) tool for your next adventure. It allows you to speak to locals, read menus, and navigate a foreign place with confidence and ease.

Get the Google Translate App on iOS and Android

22. Netflix

Ok, so maybe Netflix really isn’t an “essential” travel app, but when you are on a long flight without in-flight entertainment or you are stuck on a layover that never seems to end, according to Digital Trends , Netflix can be a lifesaver.

You do need to have a current Netflix account to use the app. Before you leave home and while you have a WiFi connection , be sure to download your favorite shows or movies to watch offline.

You may want to check your downloads prior to boarding just to make sure they haven’t expired. If you still have a WiFi connection, be sure to renew the expired downloads.

Get the Netflix App

23. Spotify

Spotify is another great way to pass the time while traveling (it is especially useful for teens). It is often considered the #1 music streaming app in the world .

Spotify allows you to listen to music and play millions of songs and podcasts for free anywhere in the world. Should you upgrade to a premium account? If you would love to listen to music without any ads, then yes, you may wish to upgrade before your next adventure.

Get the Spotify App

24. Timeshifter

Chris and I started using the Timeshifter app early in 2022 and found it convenient in preparing for the inevitable jet lag that comes with international travel.

Long before your flight ever takes off, the app begins to give tips on when to avoid caffeine, when to drink caffeine, when to avoid or seek out daylight, and when to adjust your sleep schedule.

Follow the recommendations prior to flying, during your flight and again after you land to ease the effects of jet lag. When you add your flight info to the app, it gives notifications as you prepare to leave and then again when it is time to fly home.

Travel smart and add your first jet-lag plan for free, the second trip is $10, or sign up for the unlimited plan for $24.99 per year.

Timeshifter is considered to be an indispensable app by the Wall Street Journal , Travel and Leisure , and CNBC , and has received sleep awards from the National Sleep Foundation and Health Magazine . It partners with United.com and TripAdvisor, among others.

Get the Timeshifter App

Technology Tips and Gear for Your Smart Apps

If you are like our family and will be using your  phone  throughout the day for taking photos and using these smart apps for figuring out your local transportation, seeking directions, or researching on the internet, don’t forget to pack a  Portable Charger  (or TWO!) so you can recharge your phone when needed.

Portable chargers come in a variety of sizes and shapes and are convenient and easy to pack into your travel backpack as you sightsee each day .

If you are traveling with kids and teens who use up all of  THEIR  phone battery playing games, using social media or listening to music while traveling they are going to want to charge their phone. Having two portable chargers means there is one available for you so you can map the train schedules back to the hotel. Only somewhat important right?

• Portable Charger
• iPhone Charging Cable
• Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Apple Watch
• Twelve South AirFly Pro Bluetooth
• Power Strip with USB Ports
• USB-C Charger

Frequently Asked Questions

What additional apps are travel must-haves for international travel.

Instagram , Google Flights , Airbnb, Rome2Rio and Hostelworld

What are the most downloaded smart apps for travel?

Google Maps, followed by Uber and Booking.com

What is the fastest growing travel app?

For your next adventure, check out Hopper, the fastest growing app that helps you to find hotels, homes, flights and rental cars.

What are current travel trends for Gen Z and Millenials?

American Express Travel 2023 Global Travel Trends Report , suggests that 79% of Gen Z and Millennials consider  leisure travel  to be an important budget priority. 84% say they would rather take a dream vacation than purchase a new luxury item.

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Final Thoughts on the 24 Super Smart Apps for Your Next Adventure

Travel apps are designed to elevate your travel experience and adventures.

From chatting with friends and family at home, discovering an awesome campsite, locating the nearest restroom, or finding a delicious restaurant for dinner, travel experts agree, every traveler needs these smart apps for your next adventure.

Try them out at home first to familiarize yourself with the features.

There are RV travel apps, travel apps for Europe, road trip travel apps, business travel apps, social travel apps… If you can imagine or need an app for travel, most likely you can find it.

You may also appreciate these travel planning posts…

• 15 Top Trending Apps for Planning Adventures and Travel
• 6 Essential Steps to Use Travel Reward Programs to Plan Adventures
• How to Travel Like a Pro: 15 Essential Travel Tips from Frequent Flyers
• 20 Super Travel Resolutions You Can Make for 2024
• Photo Scavenger Hunt for Road Trips (and Around Town)

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I’m a Colorado-based travel blogger with a passion for exploring the world, enjoying family time, and taking fantastic photographs. I am also a book writing, creative thinking, detail loving, frequent flying, comfort loving mom of three girls and wife to an amazing guy.

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30 comments.

This is such a good list! I already have more than half of them, so you can tell I love to travel haha. We use iOverlander and Google Maps daily. But I also love using yelp and roadtrippers for planning!

So many apps I’ve never heard of! I use a few, like AllTrails which I use almost daily (avid hiker here). I’m going to download Yelp for sure. I’m always looking for restaurants with great reviews but at a reasonable price. This app would be easy with everything in one place.

Yelp surely comes in handy at home too.

I love BEEN. It’s both rewarding and eye-opening at the same time. You may think that you visited quite a lot of countries by now, but when you tick each, you may be surprised to see the real % of the world you’ve actually seen. 

This is exactly what I am looking for. I am already using a few mentioned apps but I am going to try other as well.

Let me know how they work for you!

While I don’t get to travel as much as I would like to, I am definitely a planner! This list of apps is helpful as I have seen some of them. I use Waze for traveling in the U.S. though and I love it!

Lots of them are great for everyday life too

I completely appreciate this post! I’m majorly technology challenged and always looking for apps to help with travel but don’t seem to have the right technique for searching. Thank you so much!

I hope they help!

Great travel tips.. I will definitely try some of them on my next trip!

Great list! I love Waze, it’s really useful to find alternative routes when you’re stuck in traffic (and where to find cheaper gas!). However, Google Maps is getting better and better at it and highlights the most efficient route. I didn’t know about City Mapper. Most times I check the local transit app for routes, but of course, that may be tricky if there isn’t an English version. Happy Cow is also great for vegetarians.

Waze is super helpful. How did we ever travel without all of these apps?

Awesome resource! The is so much!

City Mapper seems like it would be super helpful. I like using public transit to navigate new cities, and this seems like a great resource. I must admit, I use google maps and waze the most. Thanks for introducing these other resources.

It is always good to have new options.

I use about half of these apps and was curious to learn about others. Splitwise is my latest addition and I love it! Makes things so much easier when sharing costs with friends. Super handy list.

Happy traveling with friends!

Great resource. I have saved it for future reference. I have use Google Translate with some hilarious results. There has been many a time that the Flush app would have been very useful. I have downloaded it for future trips.

I agree on the Flush app.

I love Google Maps! I can’t imagine traveling without it!

Yes. My husband and I use it all the time as well.

Thank you for all these suggestions. I have used Splitwise during every trip since 2018, and it does make the travel very smooth and convenient.

There are so many handy apps available.

Superb list! I will definitely download the Flush app. Would make our city explorations so much easier!

Agreed. It is awesome whether you have young kids or not.

I will definitely be keeping these suggestions in mind for my next big trip!! Thanks!

Well, this is something worth bookmarking. Thanks for sharing!

Great app suggestions. I am bookmarking this post for later. Nothing is better than having a digital guide to reach your destination using public transportation.

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30 essential travel apps every traveler needs before their next trip

When it comes to planning and taking a vacation, travelers rely on their phones now more than ever.

Travel apps are a source of inspiration and are extremely useful for booking and managing logistics — even making restaurant reservations or finding a great fitness class wherever in the world you're flying next.

From apps that help with everything from day-of hotel bookings and last-minute flight changes to those that serve as guidebooks and foreign-language dictionaries, travel is infinitely easier thanks to technology.

Apps can help you navigate a new city, make currency conversions, pack a perfect suitcase and even provide on-the-ground local expertise. Whatever you need when you hit the road, there's an app for that.

We've rounded up the most-loved apps here at TPG. Some may be obvious, and others more obscure, but either way, get ready to download.

Best apps for researching and booking trips

In addition to the apps for the airlines you fly most frequently and your favorite hotel brands, these apps can help you save money on flights and accommodations.

Hopper has changed in recent years from just offering a price prediction tool for flights to being a true online travel agency. The app helps travelers find the cheapest flights, hotels and rental cars.

Of course, Hopper also still offers its signature price prediction technology to help you plan out when to book, as well as travel protection options and a price freeze to help you lock in the lowest possible price on hotels and flights.

Kiwi is used mainly to book flights, but it also helps you book hotels (using its partnership with Booking.com) and car rentals (using its partnership with RentalCars.com).

Some of the app's most interesting features include the "Deals" section, which pulls in discounted flights, and the "Travel hacks" section, which includes options for hidden city ticketing, throwaway ticketing (making one-way flights more affordable) and free price alerts.

Hotel Tonight

A dream for last-minute travelers, Hotel Tonight ( now owned by Airbnb ) lets you book stays for the same evening up to a few months in advance in thousands of cities worldwide. Available hotel rooms are categorized into sections like basic, luxe, hip, charming and solid, so you can select what works for your vibe. Take advantage of the daily drop feature, where you swipe to find a personalized deal with a special price only valid for 15 minutes after unlocked.

At TPG, we love a good loyalty program, and HT Perks, the app's nine-level reward program, is extensive. Not unlike a video game, you "level up" by reaching specific spending thresholds on the app, and you'll gain access to perks like discounts, VIP customer support and credits. Also, your levels never expire, so you can only continue to move up.

To book home rentals instead of hotels, use the Airbnb app. After entering your destination and dates, you can filter results based on the home type, price, requisite amenities and more. If you find something you like, you can book directly through the app.

The app is ideal for managing your trips while on the road — you can access all your bookings under the "Trips" tab, where you can view your reservation (and the address or directions), contact the host or change your reservation. Once you have a booking, you can also explore and book local experiences in your destination, such as wine tastings, kayak tours, hikes, shows and concerts.

We can't talk about travel apps without mentioning the TPG App. Use it to track your credit card, airline and hotel points balances; earn points and miles efficiently through using the right credit card ; and research how many points or miles you'll need to book your dream getaway. You can even curate your own news feed so you see the news and advice that matters most to you first.

The TPG App is available for download on iOS . Android users can join the waitlist here .

Related: The TPG App has arrived — here's why you should download it now

Best apps for organizing a trip

From keeping all your documents in order to perfectly packing your suitcase without forgetting a thing, these are the best apps for organizing travel plans.

TripIt declutters your itineraries and documents by keeping them organized in one place. You can set your reservations to automatically send to TripIt, which lets you view travel confirmations, flight itineraries, tickets, hotel and Airbnb booking information, rental car reservations, ferry tickets and driving directions without ever leaving the app.

TripIt also makes it simple to share your trip plans with whoever picks you up from the airport or train station or anyone else who may need to coordinate with you. TripIt Pro subscriptions cost $49 per year and include extras like real-time flight alerts, security wait times, baggage claim information and updates on your loyalty reward programs.

Roadtrippers

Perfect for organizing that epic road trip you've always wanted to take, Roadtrippers plans out your driving route and lets you book hotels and activities along the way. The app is especially useful for finding interesting and off-the-beaten-path roadside attractions, cool restaurants and can't-miss landmarks you can bookmark.

A Roadtrippers Premium membership includes offline maps, live traffic information, overnight RV parking and more for $59.99 per year. For those looking to only venture on a few road trips per year, the app also offers a Pro ($49.99 per year) and Basic ($35.99 per year) membership.

PackPoint takes all the stress out of packing . The app shows you what to bring based on the length of your trip, the weather in your destination and any activities you're planning along the way. If you have access to laundry facilities at your destination, PackPoint even allows you to account for washing your clothes and wearing them multiple times.

Just download and install the app, type in the city you're visiting and plug in your travel details. So, stop waiting until the day before your trip — or the hours before you have to leave for the airport — and start packing now.

Best apps for navigating the airport and flights

Track flights, navigate airports and find airport lounges with these apps.

LoungeBuddy

LoungeBuddy offers access to premium airport lounges around the world, regardless of the airline or class you're flying. When you create a trip in the app and type in the credit cards you currently hold, it will tell you which lounges you have access to based on the airports you'll be transiting through and how to purchase access if you don't already have it.

You can purchase access on the day you're traveling or up to two months in advance if you're the plan-ahead type. If you prefer to search by lounge or lounge program, the app will tell you exactly what is needed to use them.

Priority Pass

Priority Pass offers access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide and provides meal vouchers at select airport restaurants across the world for an annual fee starting at $99.

Several cards, including The Platinum Card® from American Express , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve , offer Priority Pass memberships for all cardholders (enrollment required). Otherwise, you'll have to pay an annual fee to be a member and, depending on your membership tier, a fee to enter each lounge on top of the annual fee.

To use the Priority Pass app, enter the name or code of the airport you're in, and Priority Pass will pull up the lounges or restaurants that you have access to, including photos, hours, amenities and specific location information. For more information on the Priority Pass Program and how to gain lounge access, click here . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Related: The best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access

FlightAware

The FlightAware app allows you to track flights online, see a live map of a flight and check on delays, cancellations and gate changes. This app is especially helpful if you have a tight connection or want to track your flight.

It's also useful when picking up friends and family at the airport, as you can track their flight and see updated landing times or delays. AvGeeks will enjoy digging into flight statistics, flight maps and community aviation discussions on the app.

Best apps to use during your flight

Timeshifter.

What better way to cure jet lag than with an app? Timeshifter actually helps you avoid jet lag long before your flight takes off and also offers inflight and post-flight suggestions. The app relies on neuroscience research about sleep and circadian rhythms to provide personalized recommendations, taking into consideration your age, gender and normal sleep patterns — as well as specifics about your trip and travel plans. Timeshifter maps out when you should avoid or seek light, take a nap or try to stay awake. It even tells you if you should consider supplementing with melatonin or caffeine.

Your first jet lag plan is free, then $9.99 per plan, or you can enjoy unlimited plans for a year for $24.99.

Flying can cause anxiety — or provide a welcome relief from constant contact with our digital devices. Either way, use travel as an opportunity to relax, meditate or listen to soothing sounds that will lull you to sleep or a deep, relaxed state. Or, perhaps, you'll simply find it helps pass the time during a long flight.

Calm offers meditations on topics such as self-awareness, calming anxiety, breathing, lowering stress levels and happiness, among others. The app also has music options for focusing, relaxing and sleeping, as well as stories for adults and content for kids.

A limited selection of meditations and music is available for free (which you can download to use when you're offline or in flight). The premium version of the app costs $14.99 per month or $69.99 annually.

OK, so Netflix isn't really a travel app, but it can be a lifesaver during a long flight on an aircraft without seatback inflight entertainment or at the airport during an unexpected flight delay or boring layover. If you have a Netflix account, the app allows you to download your favorite shows onto your device to watch offline.

Just make sure to download your shows while connected to Wi-Fi before flying and check them again preflight to make sure they haven't expired (you can usually renew any expired downloads, but you must be connected to Wi-Fi or data to do so). Monthly prices vary depending on the plan.

Another app that's not really a travel app, Spotify can still be incredibly useful during tedious travel moments — just pop in those noise-canceling headphones and listen to your favorite music, meditations, podcasts and more.

The app's Premium plans (prices vary) allow you to download all your content offline on your phone, so you'll have it during long flights or when you don't have data or Wi-Fi access. Whether you want to take a morning jog in Bali to your favorite tunes or pass the time with a podcast on the metro in Barcelona, Spotify has it all.

Best apps to use in your destination

From exchanging money and sightseeing to communicating and knowing all the local tips and tricks, you don't want to land in a foreign city for the first time without these key apps.

XE Currency Converter

The XE Currency Converter app quickly provides live, up-to-the-minute currency rates, then allows you to store and view them even when you're offline. You'll never need to wonder if you're really getting a good deal in another country if you have this app.

Google Translate

Google Translate is a translation app that allows you to do it all — translate into more than 100 languages by typing, access 59 languages offline, translate via photo, translate bilingual conversations and even use the handwriting tool to translate.

The app is simple to use, too, with icons at the top you can click on to draw, take a photo, speak or type.

Not quite sure how much to tip when traveling internationally? GlobeTips will advise you on how to tip appropriately in more than 200 countries. It also offers a tip calculator for easy math. Globe also has apps for currency conversion, unit conversion and more that may be useful for travelers.

Related: The ultimate guide to tipping while traveling

For travelers globe-trotting with friends and family members or simply splitting the cost between groups, Tricount calculates shared costs and splits bills so you don't have to think twice about who owes what. Just enter your trip and currency and invite your travel mates to join your trip.

Each time someone pays for something, you enter the amount in Tricount, and the app splits everything up. You can also snap and store photos of receipts in the app. At the end of your trip, it will show the balances of who owes who what, making it easy to settle up.

Metric Conversions

Never be baffled by Celsius temperatures or suitcase weight in kilograms again with the Metric Conversions app . Whether you're measuring flour to cook at your Airbnb, figuring out distances for your Europe road trip or deciding whether to take a sweatshirt with you during your walking tour of the Great Wall of China, this app has you covered with easy conversions in volume, weight, temperature, area and more.

Google Maps

Google Maps is essential when visiting a new city (or even for getting around your hometown). You can map locations, get directions (walking, driving, public transportation, ride-hailing services and beyond) and see how crowded your subway will be in select cities .

You can make restaurant reservations, save your favorite spots and read and write reviews of attractions, eateries, shops and more. Make sure to download specific city or area maps ahead of time for offline access if you know you'll be without internet at your destination. For obvious reasons, the app works best when your GPS is turned on.

WhatsApp is a handy messaging service for travelers abroad as it uses an internet connection to avoid SMS fees.

It works like most other messaging apps: You start by creating an account, then add your friends and family members to contact and voila! You're able to call, video chat and send messages, images, voice memos, gifs and files just as you would in, say, iMessage (but with Android users too). You can also download WhatsApp on your Windows or Mac computer.

Best apps for planning activities

Traveling is about more than just getting from point A to point B. If you're looking for activities to add to your itinerary, check out these apps.

Meetup is an app designed for interacting with locals and other travelers who have mutual interests or shared hobbies. Whether you're traveling or at home, take what you love and do more of it with Meetup.

The app shows you groups that are formed around particular interests in your city, including yoga, photography, cooking, wine tasting, hiking, cinema and other activities. You can join groups to get updates on particular events you may want to participate in. The app can even help with networking, as there are many groups dedicated to business and technology. You might even be able to join a coworking group. Travelers with kids can participate in family-friendly meetups, and it's a great way for solo travelers to make friends and connect with others.

TheFork is one of the most useful resources for making restaurant reservations in Europe. Similar to OpenTable or Resy, the app lets you browse different restaurants by category and make reservations. TheFork features more than 60,000 restaurants in cities like London, Madrid and Geneva, as well as spots outside of Europe like Sydney, Australia.

The biggest perk is that many restaurant reservations come with discounts — in some cases, you can get up to 50% off your meal just by reserving a table through TheFork. Since we here at TPG are always down for earning rewards, make sure to monitor your YUMS — TheFork's reward system. You'll earn YUMS with each reservation, and when you hit 1,000, you receive a discount on your bill. Foodie travelers should also consider downloading these apps , too.

Happy Cow helps vegan and vegetarian eaters locate more than 180,000 restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, farmers markets and grocery stores in over 180 countries around the world. The app allows you to filter by not only vegan and vegetarian but also gluten-free and cuisine types. You can also read reviews and get recipes on the app as well.

The app does cost $3.99, but it's a one-time expense.

TripAdvisor

Besides reading reviews of restaurants, hotels and attractions, you can book almost anything on TripAdvisor, from vacation rentals and restaurant reservations to tours and tickets.

The app has grown to include almost all things travel, allowing you to search by destination or interest (like the outdoors, food and drink, family or by the water, for example), which can give you inspiration for a trip or help you get your activities, meals and accommodations organized before traveling or on the fly.

With over 400,000 curated trails, AllTrails can help you find the hike or walk perfect for you and your group. It's not just mountain trails — AllTrails offers city walks, too, like easy meanders through the Marais district in Paris or peaceful strolls through Bangkok's Lumpini Park in Thailand.

See photos, updated weather predictions and key information about each route and connect with other travelers through reviews and forums. Access to AllTrails+ is $35.99 per year, which offers perks like offline maps and wrong turn alerts.

Best apps for staying safe

Use these apps to stay safe when traveling.

Smart Traveler

Smart Traveler is a free service that offers tips and information specifically for U.S. travelers. You can see what visas and vaccines you'll need before traveling and where to find help if you need it during your trip.

Register your trip on the app, which gives your information to local embassies and consulates in your destination. If there's any kind of disaster or tragedy, the local embassy can contact you to see if you need help.

TripWhistle

Another app dedicated to keeping you safe, TripWhistle maps your location and allows you to easily text or send your GPS coordinates or location. It also provides emergency numbers for firefighters, medical personnel and police in nearly 200 countries. After all, 911 is only for U.S.-based emergencies: Each country has its own specific emergency number.

Yes, Uber (or any local ride-hailing service app) is convenient, but it may also keep you safe. Using this app when traveling means you'll never get stuck wandering around in an unfamiliar area late at night or have to deal with unscrupulous taxi drivers trying to scam you. Uber also has in-app safety features such as an emergency assistance button which will allow you to call local emergency services right in the app.

20+ Best Travel Apps to Fuel Your Wanderlust Bliss

Ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of tasks involved in planning a trip? Well, your smartphone is about to become your most trusted travel companion, thanks to a slew of game-changing travel apps. Let’s dive into the digital realm and discover over 20 of the best travel apps that will make your next adventure as smooth as a tropical breeze!

Remember that some links are compensated affiliate links. We might receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links on our website.  This has no bearing on any opinions expressed.

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The Diverse Universe of Travel Apps

Before we get into the details, let’s categorize the types of travel apps that are your go-to digital allies:

• Accommodation Apps: Think Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia.
• Transportation Apps: Uber, Lyft, and Citymapper are your go-to.
• Itinerary Planners: TripIt and Roadtrippers have got your back.
• Language Aides: Google Translate and iTranslate break down language barriers.
• Currency Gurus: XE Currency and OANDA Currency Converter keep your finances in check.

What Makes an App a Travel Superstar?

When choosing the best travel apps, prioritize a sleek interface, comprehensive features, and glowing user reviews. You want an app that’s not just visually appealing but also highly functional and reliable.

Your Digital Travel Companions

Alright, let’s meet the apps that’ll be your digital sidekicks during your next escape!

Accommodation Booking:

• Booking.com : A ton of accommodations to fit your budget and style. Plus, those traveler reviews are pure gold!
• Hotels.com : Frequent traveler? Rack up free nights with their rewards program. Yes, please! We love rewards.
• Kayak : A comprehensive travel search engine app that allows you to find and compare the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals, while also offering features like trip itineraries and real-time alerts.

Hilton vs. Marriott: The Hotel App Showdown

• Hilton : Offers a VIP experience with digital check-in, room selection, and even using your phone as a key if you’re a Hilton Honors member.
• Marriott : Acts as your pocket concierge, allowing mobile check-in and in-stay requests like extra towels or late checkout.

Quick Take: Hilton offers tech-savvy convenience, while Marriott excels in personalized service. Both are stellar choices for enhancing your hotel experience.

On-the-Go Transportation Apps:

• Uber : Your reliable ride in hundreds of cities. Track your ride in real-time and say goodbye to hailing cabs in the rain.
• Lyft : A solid alternative for rides in the US and Canada. Carpool options? Check!
• Hopper : Budget-conscious explorers, meet your new best friend. Hopper sends you real-time alerts for flights and hotels that won’t drain your adventure fund.
• Roadtrippers : Plan road trips that would make Jack Kerouac proud. From scenic routes to quirky pit stops, Roadtrippers has got you covered.
• Locationscout.net: Get insider tips on picture-perfect spots for those Instagram-worthy shots. Locationscout is your lens to the world’s hidden gems. Join a growing community.
• Citymapper : Your ultimate public transit guru, offering real-time navigation and updates for buses, trains, and subways across 80+ cities worldwide.
• Momondo : a travel search engine app that aggregates and compares prices for flights, hotels, and car rentals, offering a visually appealing interface and various filters to help you find the best travel deals .

Itinerary Wizards:

• TripIt : Forward your confirmation emails, and voila! A detailed itinerary appears. Magic, right?
• Sygic Travel : Personalized itineraries based on your interests? Yes, it’s as cool as it sounds.
• Wanderlog Trip Planner App : Real-time flight alerts, boarding passes at your fingertips, and itineraries so detailed they’d make a travel agent jealous. Wanderlog is your go-to for seamless travel planning .
• Skratch : Create your own travel universe with custom maps and interactive itineraries. Skratch is for those who love to venture off the beaten path.

Language Lifesavers:

• Google Translate : From text to voice translations, this app is like having a multilingual friend in your pocket.
• iTranslate : Save your most-used phrases and access them offline. Handy!

Money Matters:

• XE Currency : Track multiple currencies and get real-time rates. A must for international travel.
• TravelSpend : Keep your travel budget in check without skimping on experiences. TravelSpend is your financial compass on the road.

Travel Essentials

• PackPoint : Forget the stress of “Did I pack that?” PackPoint travel packing list offers personalized packing lists so you can focus on the fun stuff.
• National Park Trail Guide : Your go-to digital guidebook for exploring America’s National Parks, complete with trail maps, hike difficulty levels, and must-see landmarks.
• AllTrails : The adventurer’s dream app, offering detailed trail maps, user reviews, and customizable hiking routes for trails around the globe.
• Flush is a handy app that helps you locate public restrooms near you, complete with user reviews and information on accessibility and cleanliness.

Don’t forget about your savings apps for discounts and rebates like Rakuten and Groupon .

Pro Tips for App-Savvy Adventurers

• Download offline maps and language packs.
• Enable notifications for real-time updates on flights and public transit.
• Always read reviews and fine print before making any bookings.
• Book in advance to snag the best deals.
• Look for local transport apps to have up to the minute details on transit routes and times.

Equip your smartphones with these top-notch travel apps and you’re all set for a journey that’s as smooth as it is exciting. Ready to embark on a stress-free adventure? Let’s go! 

The Hidden Gems: Local and Regional Travel Apps

While global apps offer a broad range of services and information, don’t overlook the treasure trove of local and regional apps that can provide insider knowledge when you’re exploring specific countries or cities. These apps often offer hyper-local insights that even the best global apps might miss.

Why Go Local?

• Cultural Nuances: Local apps are designed with the culture and customs of the area in mind, offering tips that are culturally relevant.
• Up-to-the-Minute Updates: These apps often provide real-time information that’s incredibly specific to the region, such as local festivals, lesser-known attractions, and even regional weather forecasts.
• Local Recommendations: Get suggestions for local eateries, hidden spots, and unique experiences that might not appear on global platforms.
• Language Support: Many local apps offer language options that include the local dialect, making it easier for you to communicate and understand the region better.

How to Find These Apps?

• Local Tourism Websites: These often recommend apps that are useful for tourists.
• App Store Categories: Browse the ‘Travel’ category in your app store and filter by region or city.
• Travel Blogs and Forums: These platforms often have recommendations from travelers who have been to the region and used specific local apps.
• Social Media Groups: Join location-specific travel groups where members often share useful apps for the area.

Examples to Get You Started:

• Japan: The “ Japan Official Travel App ” offers everything from navigation to translation and even emergency information.
• New York City: “ MyNYC ” provides real-time subway updates, event listings, and even free Wi-Fi spots around the city.
• Paris : “ RATP” is the go-to app for navigating public transportation in Paris, offering real-time updates, route planning, and ticket purchasing for the city’s metro, buses, and trams.

So, next time you’re planning to dive deep into a new destination, make sure to add some local apps to your digital toolkit. They’ll give you that extra layer of understanding and enjoyment that makes travel truly enriching.

Your Questions Answered

• A: Literally, anyone who’s got a case of wanderlust—be it for business or leisure!
• A: Skyscanner, Hopper, and Kayak are your wingmen for snagging great flight deals .
• A: They’re like your personal travel agents—organizing, translating, and even navigating for you.
• A: Hostelworld and Couchsurfing are your pals for affordable stays.
• A: Most have robust security measures and verified reviews to ensure you’re in safe hands.
• A: No worries! Many of these apps have desktop versions too.

Download these best travel apps and let the journey begin! Happy travels! 

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22 Best Travel Apps Every Traveler Should Know About

From tracking flight delays, finding last-minute accommodations, and even locating the nearest public restroom, these are the most helpful travel apps to download before you travel.

Using the right travel apps can help you save both time and money , while making the journey much less stressful . Many of these apps also provide local recommendations and hidden gems tourists don't often get to see — and some are completely free.

Whether you're looking for an app that will give you discounts for popular local events, offer a last-minute booking at a fraction of the price, or help you breeze through the airport , these are the 22 best travel apps to download before your next trip.

Citymapper helps travelers find the speediest route to their destination, providing step-by-step instructions on where to find the nearest bus and train stations. You'll be able to see when the next arrivals are, and real-time routing means you'll get updates every minute. The app also has a chat feature that allows you to update friends and family on your E.T.A. wherever you are.

Available on iOS and Android .

PackPoint takes the hassle out of packing by creating a customized list of what you'll need for your getaway. Enter your destination, travel dates, length of stay, and activities that might require special gear, like hiking or swimming, and the app will create a custom packing list you can save for future use. Besides checking weather conditions for you, the app also allows users to share their packing lists with fellow travelers.

The beauty of Rebtel is you don't need an internet connection to call friends and family back home. The app connects to local phone lines to provide you with cheap calls in 51 countries around the world without having to deal with the hassle of getting a local SIM card or racking up your phone bill.

If you're looking to get outdoors, this app will provide you with the area's best hiking, biking, and running trails. In addition to details on length, starting location, and trail quality, AllTrails includes reviews and photos from a community of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. You'll find useful information like what to pack, obstacles you'll find along the route, and the best scenic spots to check out.

If you find yourself in the middle of a long layover, Dayuse can get you into a hotel room for a few hours for up to 75 percent less than what the typical overnight rate would be. The app features 5,000 hotels in 23 countries, and allows you to make free cancellations at the last minute, in case you manage to catch an earlier flight.

Selections include everything from business hotels to wellness accommodations, with payments made directly when you arrive. You also get full use of the hotel's amenities for the duration of your stay.

The prices of flights can fluctuate, making it tricky to decide if you should book right away or hold off. That's where Hopper comes in, predicting the best time to find the cheapest fares, saving up to 40 percent. The app also has a price-monitoring feature so that you can select a particular flight and receive alerts if the price drops. Through Hopper, users can also compare the prices and amenities of more than 250 airlines and get alerts about airfare flash sales.

RV Parks & Campgrounds

This camping app helps you locate prime RV parks, campgrounds, rest areas, and gas stations across North America. With more than 40,000 facilities, the app sorts locations based on ratings and includes both privately-owned RV parks and public parks to choose from.

Nike Training Club

Hitting the gym while you're traveling can be tough, but with Nike Training Club , you'll feel like you have a personal trainer right in your pocket. That's because you can access hundreds of free workouts from Nike Master Trainers and celebrities like Kevin Hart, Serena Williams, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Audio and video clips help you make sure you're on top of your technique, while personalized training plans will keep you on track.

If you don't have much time to spare at the airport, Grab allows you to check out what food selections are near your gate, and gives you the option to pre-order your meal so you can pick it up on the way. The app currently operates at over 60 airports worldwide, giving you plenty of bites to choose from on your next trip.

GasBuddy is the app you'll want if you're taking a road trip. GasBuddy tracks down where to find the cheapest gas prices, allowing you to filter by price, location, brand, and amenities. It also provides you with deals at nearby convenience stores and price hike alerts so you can nail down the best prices every time.

Want to know what local events are taking place at your destination? Headout will show you the top attractions, shows, tours, and experiences in popular cities like New York, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Orlando, Hawaii, Dubai, and more.

Activities range from catching a Broadway show, yoga in the hills, or taking a helicopter tour, with exclusive last-minute offers that can be up to 80 percent off.

If you need to access the internet during your travels, chances are you'll have to connect to public Wi-Fi, which can be sketchy. TunnelBear allows you to connect privately and securely by providing you a VPN (virtual private network) that will encrypt your browsing data to keep your information hidden from hackers and advertisers. The app comes with 500MB of free browsing data each month, or you can opt for unlimited data at a low monthly rate.

Hostelworld

Hostelworld is where you'll find more than 17,000 hostels, hotels, B&B's, and communal spaces in 178 countries. The app is great for solo travelers looking to meet fellow vacationers during their trip, including a Noticeboard that highlights events and meetups, and a translator that will help you communicate in up to 43 languages.

WeatherBug provides forecasts for millions of locations around the world, with current, hourly, and even 10-day options. The app also has specific weather maps to track everything from lightning and wind to pressure and humidity, and makes staying on top of changes to the weather easy with instant alerts.

Eatwith allows you to dine with locals, in their homes, all over the world. Menus are posted for you to see, while hosts will typically list what they cook, the languages they speak, and any alcohol pairings they'll be serving. Not only does the app give you a chance to meet locals and get superb dining recommendations, but it also allows you to enjoy a high-quality meal for less than what you'd typically pay at a restaurant.

Available on iOS and Android.

Trying to locate a public restroom can be tricky, especially in a new destination. That's where Flush comes in. The app has a database of more than 200,000 toilets, and quickly provides travelers with nearby bathrooms. You can search without an internet connection, and the app will also notify you if a restroom requires a fee.

While banks may charge you a fee for transferring money abroad, Wise allows you to make a transfer based on real-time currency exchanges, so you can send money at rates the company says are up to eight times cheaper than what you'd find at traditional banks.

TripIt makes it easy to put together a cohesive travel itinerary. Simply forward your confirmation emails, like your hotel and flight reservations, or your rental car reservation, and TripIt will build a full itinerary to help you stay organized with all of your plans.

With real-time alerts, you'll know if your flight is delayed or canceled, while the flight finder can help you book a new option should a cancellation occur.

Another good app for the road, Waze gives you community-based data about traffic jams, and information to locate points of interest like the cheapest gas stations and the fastest routes to your destination. Live maps include voice-guided navigation to easily guide you.

Xe provides live exchange rates and charts to keep you on top of money matters during your travels, easily allowing you to choose between different currencies you'd like to convert. It also has a rate alert so that you can monitor your favorite currencies — and it can be used offline.

Timeshifter

If you're sick of the jet lag battle that inevitably comes with travel, check out Timeshifter , an app that helps you to avoid jet lag long before your flight departs. Thanks to neuroscience research on circadian rhythms and sleep, the app provides personalized recommendations that take into account your age, gender, typical sleep patterns, and specifics about your trip. The app will tell you when you should avoid or seek daylight, and when you should stay awake or take a nap. The result? A gentle jet lag experience, which translates to more time exploring your destination.

FlightAware

If you have a tight connection or are picking up friends or family from the airport, look to FlightAware for help. The app tracks flights in real time, so you can see exactly where the aircraft is at any given moment. In addition to providing arrivals and delays, you can also see if weather will have any affect on certain locations.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

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January 18, 2019.

I use a few different apps for travel and outdoor adventures that help me plan trips, find my way, see the path of the sun, take photos and more. Here’s a list of my favorites that I use on most trips!

The Outbound

The Outbound Collective is an organization dedicated to sharing outdoor adventure information as well as tips and tricks for travels and adventure. There is a main desktop site as well as a mobile app. I use this app in 2 ways.

First, I use the app to plan trips. On the app, an “adventure” is a trail or activity that someone has logged in the app. These Adventures will list the activity, and tell you specific information like how long the trail is, the difficulty of the trail, and the exact starting location. You can search for Adventures in a specific geographic area, and find a list of trails, paddling locations, scenic spots, and more. If I know I’m going to be in a certain area, I will often check The Outbound to see what adventures other people have logged in that location.

Second, once I decide on a few adventures, I can read what other people have said about them. Each adventure allows reviews, and people will often tell you tips and tricks to make the most of the experience.

The Outbound also has blog type features called Stories, gear lists, retreats, and more. Anyone can contribute to the community, so you can log an adventure, review an adventure, or write a story.

This awesome app will not only tell you when sunrise and sunset is, but it will also tell you exactly where the sun will be in the sky throughout the day based on your live location. For example, you can open the app, hold up your phone to the sky, and the app will show you the sun’s path for the day. The app makes it easy to plan where you want to be for photographing the sunrise and sunset. Lumos takes the experience even further, and can tell you where the sun will be at any specified date in the future. So you if you want to photograph a sunset 2 weeks from now, you can plan where the sun will be. Pretty cool right? Lumos also does the same thing for moonrise and moonset.

3. All trails

All Trails is a must for hiking. This app uses GPS technology to show you trail routes, and then shows where you are on the trail route in real time. The GPS location ability is crazy accurate, and I’ve been able to use the app to get back on a trail when I lost it. You can also upgrade to premium and download maps to use offline.

4. Google Maps

Google Maps is obviously a must for navigation, but I love Google Maps when traveling to a different country. Before I leave, I will download the map for the city or area that I will be traveling to, and then I can use Google maps offline when in another country.

Of course, I also use Google maps to search for restaurants, gas stations, and ice cream along my driving routes.

5. Nikon VMU

This app is great because it allows you to control your camera’s shutter from your phone. This feature becomes important when you’re traveling alone, and have no one to take photos for you. I will carry my tripod with me, set up my camera, and then take photos of myself using my phone to trigger the camera shutter. I’ve also used this app to take group photos. VMU is specific to Nikon, but most major camera brands have a similar app. Your camera must have wifi capabilities for this to work.

Met getting ready to take a photo of myself using Nikon VMU

I enjoy reading for fun, but don’t like carrying around physical books, so now I download all of my books to the kindle app on my phone! I save space, and always have a book with me for when I’m waiting in lines, waiting for planes to take off, or just want to read. Kindle is free, and there is a library of free books as well as books that are free with Amazon Prime membership.

7. Lightroom mobile

Lightroom is the primary program that I use to edit photos, and the mobile version is fantastic for quickly editing photos while traveling or on the go. You must have an Adobe account to get the app.

What are your favorite travel and adventure apps? Let me know!

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After a memorable trip with friends, the last thing you want to do is spend hours entering receipts into a database to determine who should pay what. It turns out that you are no longer required to do so.

About two-thirds of participants stated they intend to travel with friends and family this year, despite the growing popularity of solo travel. However, organizing a group vacation may be challenging, especially when it comes to splitting the costs.

Make sure everyone is in agreement with the overall agenda and budget before you begin any planning.

Do you frequently need to make several visits during the day but lack the time or funds to hire a cab or trip share? You’re in luck if so! We’ll be looking at some of the top ride-sharing and carpooling applications available now!

Table of Contents

List of 5 Best Trip Sharing Apps:

1. trotter it.

If you’re an avid traveler looking to not only plan your next trip , meet other travelers, and find travel partners around the globe, but also to create an immersive, inspiring, and interactive travel journal that you can look back on, share with, and inspire your network, you’ve come to the right place. You may create, record, and share delightful travel adventures on Trotter It, a private digital travel diary. Photos are an excellent way to document your travels, but in today’s content-hungry culture, they are just not enough. Trotter It helps you travel more efficiently by giving your trip a content life.

Trotter It functions much like a personal digital journal where you may keep track of all your travel-related experiences and share them with others. One may write, record, and share thrilling trip tales with this app. Your story may be told through realistic images, real-time video, or just enlightening writing.

Social media has given us the capability to quickly record, save, and relive any event. Trotter It allows you to share what you’ve lived, discovered, and encountered on your lovely travels around the globe. Sharing your travel experiences on Trotter gives you the possibility to motivate others by establishing yourself as the travel authority who has experienced anything from a relaxing summer vacation to a round-the-world backpacking adventure.

Download the app : Andriod | IOS

2. Roadtrippers

For individuals who share driving responsibilities when traveling, Roadtrippers is fantastic. With the help of this app, you can work with family and friends to choose the ideal route. It also offers recommendations for rest stations and surrounding sights. The program also predicts the amount of time it will take to drive each leg of the journey, allowing you to plan the optimum spots to stop and switch drivers so nobody is doing the majority of the driving.

3. BlaBlaCar

The carpooling service BlaBlaCar was created to reduce traffic overall and share petrol costs with other prospective passengers.

It is simpler for commuters to find a ride with a qualified and reliable driver thanks to this carpooling app, which is economical and environmentally friendly.

Users may link their social media accounts to their BlaBlaCar profiles and score their interactions with drivers anonymously, with a focus on driving ability and safety.

The purpose of the service is to pair up drivers and passengers that are traveling on the same general route. This is one of the safest applications which guarantees your protection and safe communication. To assure you receive the finest service possible, each sRide driver has their background checked, and driver reviews are carefully monitored. In order to start a discussion in the sRide community and offer input for other users, each rider must write a review of their driver. Additionally created in 2014, sRide aims to give commuters an affordable mode of transportation while reducing pollution.

This is one of the amazing and advanced programs in the field of Trip Sharing. This software has a chat feature that allows users to connect with one another or in a group to discover compatible carpool mates.

While ride-sharing hasn’t yet taken off, TwoGo isn’t discouraged and is actively providing dependable carpooling services in select regions of the country.

Download the app : Andriod | IOS 

Don’t Miss : Top 5 Best Travel Sharing Apps for Wanderers

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A Little Journal… These Digital Travel Diary Apps Are Worth Your Time

Last updated on January 4, 2024 by Shannon

As travel enthusiasts, we yearn to capture the essence of extraordinary travel moments and freeze them in time. We even want those mundane details preserved—what was the name of that hilarious taxi driver who shuttled you from the airport to your guesthouse?

If you’ve logged those details in a travel journal, you don’t have to remember—that’s where travel journaling apps come in, offering a digital travel scrapbook that easily documents even the craziest travel adventures.

I’ve been traveling the world for 15 years, writing, photographing, and sharing my travel stories from the first day. That means I have pretty high expectations when it comes to using digital travel diaries meant to preserve the memories of your expeditions. Here’s what you need to know about the best online travel journal apps available.

Table of Contents

What are Digital Travel Diaries?

While journaling about your travels via a paper notebook used to be called a travel log, the more modern equivalent is an online travel journaling app. That said, even diary app is just a new way to log the most important moments of your travels—and the mundane ones too.

Travel journals essential just document your experiences, capturing your memories as you travel the world. By logging your travel memories in real time via a journaling app, you ensure the smaller details are captured.

Was it a torrential downpour on the day you had booked an “any-weather” tour of the Norwegian fjords? Log that and then share how you felt at that very moment, otherwise the details fade with time.

That’s the real magic of keeping a travel log in any form, a beloved notebook, an app, or a blog. I’ve used all three over my 15+ years of travel. This travel blog was my primary travel log, but at times I’ve used these travel apps to capture moments more immediately.

And no matter my online travel journal app of choice, I always, always have a small physical journal. Even if you diligently record all of the best moments of your trip in your digital travel diary app, you should also carry a small travel journal that acts as your travel log—you use it to jot down funny off-the-cuff moments, or even just mundane details.

Perhaps you press between the pages ticket stubs, a pretty flower from your world wanders, and other small memorabilia that can’t be captured in a journaling app. It becomes a place to log currency conversions you can surreptitiously glance at when haggling at a market, or jot down lists and travel plans.

I never travel without a pocket Field Notes waterproof notebook and this Moleskine travel journal —its these two things that have allowed me to share such rich details on this blog, my personal travel log that’s been running 15 years and counting.

How to Choose an Online Travel Journal App

Travel journal apps are not one-size-fits-all. The best apps offer the exact range of features you need and at a price point you can afford—which can mean free! Many journaling apps offer a free version that may just meet your needs. Often its the more sophisticated features that require a paid upgrade.

Given that you’re probably snowed under travel planning, don’t waste your time downloading every travel diary app here. To pick the right app for your travels, consider these things before you download it:

When choosing an online travel diary app, there are several factors to consider that can help you find the one that best fits your needs. Here are some tips to help you make a decision:

• Features : Review what the journaling app actually does—what are the key features these app developers believe are the hallmarks of their app? That will tell you a lot about functionality. Standard features of most digital travel diaries include: text entry, photo and video uploading, geotagging, and weather data. Decide which features are important to you and ensure that the app provides them. Maybe you want an awesome map interface because you’re hopscotching around the world for a year ? Or you’re studying abroad you might want an app with more functionality around text and photo entries.
• Platform Compatibility : Check if the digital journaling app is available on your preferred platforms, such as iOS, Android, web-based, and desktop. If you’re bringing both a smartphone and laptop on your travels , you may wan a travel diary app that seamlessly switches between the two devices.
• Syncing and Backup : Consider whether the app offers syncing and backup options—and if those are free or paid features. You want access your travel diary across multiple devices, and you want it securely backed up to the cloud.
• Export and Sharing Options : If you plan to share your travel diary with others or would like to have a backup of your entries outside of the app, check if it offers export options, such as PDF or other file formats.
• Company Story : If the travel journaling app you’re considering using hasn’t been around for at least two-to-five years, run in the other direction. Companies, especially app makers, fold quickly. The last thing you want is an email saying you have a matter of days to download your cherished memories before they’re all deleted.

Best Travel Journaling Apps

Day One tops most of these lists because it’s actually that good—and it’s been around since 2011, so you know your travel memories are safe with this online diary app. The company has invested in a high-quality product, and updates over the years have responded to user reviews and feedback—which is enthusiastic across the board.

Its clean interface and seamless integration with iOS (both iPhones and Macs) and Android make it a joy to use. You can effortlessly capture each destination through text and photos, while popping in location data too.

Best app features : The “On This Day” functionality is neat because it doesn’t pull in the best of anything, but rather that exact moment years ago when you were on an incredible adventure out there in the world—or maybe you had logged a tasty hot chocolate at a hipster spot near that landmark you were visiting.

Either way, you’ll be transported back there in an instant and that app feature is maybe one of the strongest motivators to journal about all the big (and small) things that happen as you travel.

Cost : The free version is enough to see if you like it, but if you’re using this as your main digital travel journal then the one photo per entry restriction on free plans isn’t going to cut it. Premium is affordable though, at just under $3 per month, which buys you unlimited photos, videos, audio, drawings, and more.

If you go all in on Journey as your travel journal app, it will become your trusted companion. Rather than being a journaling app that’s great for travel, this travel-centric journaling app goes above and beyond with its extensive features.

Geotagging allows you to pinpoint the exact location of you experiences, while the inclusion of weather data and “mood” status adds depth to entries. You can import photos from your camera roll directly into journal entires, creating vivid visual narratives of your travels.

This robust app works on iOS devices and Android phones, Mac or Windows computers, and there’s even a web app! Basically, it’s an accessible and essential tool for any travel writer seeking to document their adventures with style and precision. Not only because of the features, but also because it allows multi-media exports in PDF or doc format.

It’s also a bit cheeky and has a handy guide to what Journey offers versus Day One or Daylio .

Best app features : Stand out for many will be the features that let you automatically sync and import social media content from Instagram and the like—what a time saver! And the full text editing screen is nice—you can bold, bullet, color, or link to anything you’d like right inside the text. Surprisingly, that’s not in every diary journaling app.

But one of the neater travel-focused elements are the three views for your journal—media (where you scroll by photos), map (which shows your entries pinpointed on a map of the world) and calendar (journals organized by date).

Cost : Unlike essentially all competitors, Journey offers a one time purchase license—currently $18. You can buy a membership for ~$4.20.

Daylio , billed as a “simple micro-diary app,” adds an interesting twist to a travel journaling routine. As a mood and activity tracker, it enables you to record daily experiences and emotions with ease—and without writing anything. It’s an interesting way to to reflect on how your travel adventures have impacted your overall well-being .

It’s not for the hardcore travel writer, but rather, Daylio captures the essence of the travel experiences in a uniquely personal way. It’s a good companion for those seeking to intertwine their emotional journey with their physical travels. And for those who want a more streamlined diary app with fewer features and just straight to the meat of what you want to do.

Best app features : This app is dead simple to use and can be updated in under a minute thanks to the tap interface. It’s certainly not going to be the only way you record you travels, but if you’re already planning to share extensively on a Facebook or Instagram page , then this ease of use may just ensure that you use it every day.

Cost : You could get pretty far with the free version, or upgrade for just $3 per month—only the premium version supports exporting to PDF.

4. Evernote

Real talk: The digital travel journal of your dreams may be something you’re already using. When it comes to versatile note-taking, Evernote reigns supreme. Its functionality goes beyond simple journaling, allowing the creation of multimedia-rich entries.

I’ve organized my entire life via Evernote—travel pans, stories, etc—and its robust features make a compelling case for this being one of the best journaling apps out there, period. Not just in travel, but in general.

As one of the best digital diary apps, you can update it seamlessly across iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows.

Best app features : Well, you could use Evernote to basically plan and execute your trip, in addition to using it as a digital journal. You can also stay ruthlessly organized.

Cost : The free version offers 60 MB monthly uploads, which is constraining for travelers looking for an online app where they could add photos and videos to Evernote itself—this would like be better if you’re embedding YouTube videos, for example, versus storing them in Evernote.

The Personal version offers a more reasonable 10 GB in monthly uploads, but costs $11/month for that perk. If you’re already paying for Evernote for other reasons then this could be an excellent online travel journal, otherwise some of the other ones are likely better priced for a traveler.

5. Travel Diaries

For those seeking a dedicated travel journaling app, Travel Diaries hits the mark. It’s really a truly solid option. As a travel writer, I’m captivated by its interactive features. You can easily create immersive travelogues, complete with photos, maps, and annotations.

It’s also a captivating way to showcase your journey to fellow travelers (and your family and friends back home, of course!). The ability to share your travel stories and explore others’ adventures on the platform adds a sense of community not available in the other digital travel journaling apps.

It’s available as software for web, iOS and Android, but will only work with an internet connection (either cell data or wifi)—which means this might not be the best journaling app for those going far off-the-beaten path .

Best app features : A broad range of fonts and styles allow you to design your travel diary according to your own taste, and your travel log can include itineraries, travel photos, and a traveling map. The layout as an actual travel journal is a fun and personal touch that makes it feel like your digital diary is just as capable of creativity as a blank page in front of you.

Cost : There is no free version of Travel Diaries—it’ll be a subscription for as long as you want access to your travel journal. The basic plan costs $1 a month and includes unlimited storage and is really all most travelers will need for a robust travel journal. If you want to export your stories to PDF, you’ll have to upgrade to $3 per month.

Diaro App is a reliable companion for millions of people, not just globetrotters. This comprehensive diary app offers an array of features that elevate a travel journaling experience. Sometimes the best travel journal is, well, just a great online diary that you happen to use to document your travels.

The ability to add text, photos, tags, and organize entries into folders keeps this app well-organized—you can effortlessly find specific memories or delve into specific themes from your trips. It has a map of entry locations, which is especially important for those using this as a travel journal diary.

Diaro’s sleek interface and user-friendly design make the process of documenting adventures a true pleasure. Available on web, iOS or Android devices (with cross-device syncing via Dropbox) Diaro is a go-to app for travelers who want to capture the essence of their trip with elegance and efficiency.

Best app features : The multilingual UI (30+languages) may be a real boon for those for whom English is not their native language, but the shining standout features is just how easy it is to create a robust diary accounting for all of the key moments on your trip.

Cost : The free version has robust functionality. Upgrading to Diario Pro costs $10 per month and offers more customizability.

7. Polarsteps

Polarsteps is a great travel journal app that offers automatic tracking of your journey, making it effortless to document and share your trips. With its GPS technology, the app traces your route in real-time, creating a visually appealing map of your adventure without requiring any manual input.

This feature sets Polarsteps apart from other travel journal apps, as it eliminates the need for constant updates and allows you to focus on enjoying your trip while the app takes care of recording your route—and uses minimal data and power to do so.

What truly makes Polarsteps unique is its ability to create a beautifully presented travel log that showcases your journey. This app is made for the travel photographers out there also wanting a digital travel log of their journey.

Along with the automatic tracking, the app allows you to add photos, captions, and personal insights to your entries. These elements are then combined to create a visually stunning travel journal that can be shared with friends, family, and fellow travelers. I think this is one of the prettier apps—the maps alone are just a step up from the others.

Best app features : The GPS tracking is easily the standout here. You’ll know the precise spot you took a photo, and can then include a quick note—an inside joke you shared with a friend while there, a tidbit about the day, and more. This kind of precise location data is invaluable in the months and years after you travel.

Cost : It’s free! Polarsteps offers you a printed travel journal of your trip, which is how it’s monetized.

8. Waffle Journal

Waffle Journal stands out from the rest as a a collaborative journaling app that allows you to document and share your travel experiences with others—probably those on your same trip. Its unique approach fosters collaboration, allowing friends, family, or fellow travelers to contribute to your journal. With the ability to add stories, photos, and memories, everyone can create a collective travel diary that captures the essence of your adventures.

The app goes beyond traditional journaling by integrating multimedia elements. You can include photos, videos, and audio recordings. It’s not a travel journal specifically, so you’re not going to have any of those map features the travel apps have integrated into the experience, but it could be a great option for those travel in a group, or a group of friends who just love to share their travel adventures with each other. Social sharing features make it easy to showcase your travel adventures on social media platforms or via email.

BONUS: RIP: Bonjournal

Bonjournal captured my attention many years ago for its visually stunning approach to travel journaling. As you penned your travel stories, this app transformed them into beautifully presented narratives—and it made you choose just one photo to represent your day. Which was really quite neat.

This travel journal app is no longer available! Even though other websites are still recommending it as a travel diary app, the gorgeous app that debuted more than a decade ago is no longer up and running. Instead, a new app with the same name launched in 2021—it’s not a viable alternative. This new Bon Journal diary app is glitchy and poorly rated—storing your cherished travel memories there is not a good idea.

Don’t forget a paper journal as well.

This Moleskin travel journal is well made and worth the space it will take up in your bag. There will be times you just want to put pen to paper—you’ll be glad you have an analog record of your travels too.

How to Safely Store Travel Photos and Videos

These travel journaling apps are a terrific way to document your journey for personal memories, and to share with others. Although some long-term travelers create a travel blog to record their trips, using a travel diary instead is a great alternative.

You get amazing functionality and the ability to share your travel stories without the hassle of running a blog—which can get pricey and generally lacks the ability to share some stories privately with family, or keep other journal entries entirely private.

One thing all of these apps have are general constraints on how you upload, store, and present your travel photos and videos. Although some of these apps offer paid subscriptions with unlimited uploads, you’re likely safer if you store your actual travel photos elsewhere, too. Here’s a quick review of other places you can store travel photos, and the perks of using them in addition to, or instead of, a travel diary app.

• Facebook pages : Rather than use your personal profile, consider setting up a Facebook page for your trip—then you can share unlimited stories, photos, and videos. And you’re creating and sharing in a place where it’s likely your family and friends are already hanging out.
• Instagram : This is a great way to share photos, but videos and stories are a little more constrained on this platform. This might be a good option in addition to a digital travel diary.
• SmugMug : If you need a place to both store and display all of your travel photos, SmugMug is a great option. I’ve had an annual plan for more than a decade and it offers unlimited storage for all of my photos from all over the world for $88 per year. And it’s totally customizable—you can create gorgeous albums on a custom domain name if you own one.
• Google Drive : If you just need a backup solution without the need to share then Google Drive is a good option (I find Google Photos a chore to use). It’s just $2 a month for 100GB of cloud storage.

Ready for some travel inspiration? These are the best travel stories of travelers to follow now, inspiring books from historic travels, and short reads, too.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Best Travel Apps To Download Before Your Next Overseas Trip

A mericans embark on approximately 93 million trips overseas each year, which would normally entail a lot of intense planning to ensure everything runs smoothly before diving into the unfamiliar. After all, there are so many things to consider before embarking on an international trip. You'll need to tackle how to communicate in a foreign language, how to calculate different currency values, and even just how to get around in a new place on a trip abroad . That's only the beginning, too.

Luckily, the international travel game was changed for the better forever with the emergence of smartphones. Travel preparations that once took months of planning can now be handled swiftly by hitting a few buttons and downloading an easy-to-use app. Planning for an international trip can feel daunting, but downloading the following convenient travel apps for your next overseas trip will make your adventure way easier, safer, and more efficient.

Read more: Tips For Protecting Your Passport When Traveling Abroad

One of the most immediate hurdles of traveling overseas is not speaking the local language. From the moment your plane touches the ground in a foreign country with a different language, you'll need to figure out a way to communicate. While it's smart to learn a couple of key phrases in your destination's language, you won't become fluent overnight unless you're a bona fide prodigy. That's why you need a good translator ready on your phone.

Many people will turn to Google Translate to help with translating on an overseas vacation, but the truth is that it's a pretty inaccurate translator with accuracy rates as low as 55% in some languages. That could lead to a lot of confused looks on an overseas trip. Instead, download the free app DeepL for more accurate translations in more than 25 languages. With DeepL, you can do things like save certain phrases to refer back to and use your camera to translate text. It's also been found to be more accurate than other translators out there.

Figuring out the best way to get from point A to B in a foreign country can be a little scary and confusing, but it's been made a whole lot easier with Rome2Rio. This handy little app allows you to input two different places, and it shows you every single way you can make the trip. You can input locations like countries, cities, tourist attractions, and addresses.

Rome2Rio will give you walking, train, bus, ferry, or plane directions depending on what's available for the route, so you'll know all your options and how much they cost. It'll tell you which route is the cheapest, quickest, and overall best choice for transportation. The app even provides a direct link to buy the tickets when you decide on a route and want to commit. You can plan out your entire route on an international trip with the assistance of Rome2Rio.

The biggest expenses of an overseas trip are usually booking flights, accommodations, and rental cars. It's a drag to shell out all that cash, but Hopper can save you a lot of money on these necessary travel expenses. Hopper is an app that tracks the price of flights, cars, and hotels across multiple providers, and lets you know exactly when to buy for the best price.

When you find a good deal on the trip of your dreams, Hopper lets you freeze the price for up to seven days to get the funds in order. The most noteworthy Hopper feature is its predictability model, which can tell you exactly when a flight, accommodation, or rental car is about to increase in price. Its predictions are said to be 95% accurate, too. Hopper is the smartest and cheapest way to make these big travel purchases and never fall victim to the price skyrocketing randomly.

WhatsApp is the third most-downloaded application in the entire world, with an insane 424 million downloads in 2022. There is a good reason that there are 2.78 billion active users on WhatsApp, and that number is growing every year. It's one of the most reliable encrypted messaging apps out there and allows anyone with an internet connection to send a message or make a call from anywhere in the world, making it perfect for an international trip where your provider from home might charge you an arm and a leg in roaming fees.

WhatsApp lets users securely message, call, and share media with anyone from around the world no matter where they go. It's no wonder that travelers have been downloading WhatsApp religiously for years. Users can adopt their regular phone number from home to sign up and even sync up the app with their contacts list. As long as you have Wi-Fi, WhatsApp is a free phone alternative that you can always count on overseas.

TimeShifter

Jet lag is that groggy exhaustion that comes with switching time zones, and when you're traveling overseas, it's practically inevitable. There is nothing worse than losing out on days of your short overseas vacation because you're too jet-lagged to do anything fun. Luckily, you don't have to worry about jet lag ruining your limited vacation time anymore thanks to the TimeShifter app.

TimeShifter uses the power of light exposure to shift your circadian clock and eliminate jet lag all by simply putting you on a timed schedule. It sounds simple, but it can completely transform your vacation experience, especially if you're only going away for a week or two. The TimeShifter app sends you prompt alerts of exactly when to sleep and when to wake up to get on the new country's time as fast as possible. It's actually a technique that's been used by NASA astronauts in space, and it's incredibly effective.

Google Maps

No matter which country you're visiting on an overseas trip, you'll likely need a little help to find your way around. Enter your new best friend: Google Maps. Google Maps is by far the most popular navigation app in America with 24 million downloads in 2022 alone, but it's just as useful internationally.

You don't want to be wandering aimlessly without Google Maps on your side to help you figure out where you're going. It's quite easy to get lost when you're exploring a new place, even if you're good with directions normally. Google Maps can keep you on track or save you with a quick reroute if you do end up getting turned around.

Google Maps has a ton of lesser-known features to help you on a trip, too. For example, it is a great way to remember the places you visit on your travels by dropping pins on the locations. You can also use this feature to remind you where you parked or where your accommodations are.

XE Currency

There are so many different things to get used to when you're traveling overseas to a foreign country, like using an entirely new system of currency to buy stuff. The currency rate is an important thing to consider before you start spending money. Otherwise, you could be easily ripped off because you don't know how much your money is worth in your vacation destination.

It can get extremely confusing to learn a new currency on a trip and figure out exactly how much you're spending every day. Instead of doing mad Google searches to figure out the daily exchange rate, download XE Currency and let it do the work for you. This is a very simple app that allows you to see the live currency exchange rates for 170 different currencies. Every second and cent the rate changes, it will be immediately updated in XE Currency for you to see.

When you're out in the allure of a foreign country, it's tempting to treat yourself to everything and go over budget if you're not careful. One good way to at least make an attempt at avoiding this, is by using the Tripcoin app. Tripcoin is a travel budget tracker that you can use to hold yourself accountable on a trip on the go. All you have to do is log your expenses into the app during your adventures and Tripcoin will do the rest from there.

The goal is to help you keep track of your spending habits and make sure you don't exceed your hard budget limit. Tripcoin allows you to track expenses in more than 150 currencies and doesn't require an internet connection. It lets you understand your spending habits while traveling so you can be on top of your budget and organize your finances, no matter what currency you're using.

It can be a struggle to remember everything on your packing list for a trip overseas. With electronics, clothes, toiletries, medications, travel documents, and more -- there is just so much stuff to think about before you head off to a foreign country. If just one crucial item slips your mind during the packing process, it can be a complete disaster before your trip even gets going. That's where PackPoint comes to the rescue.

PackPoint helps you build a comprehensive packing list based on what type of traveling you're doing, where you're going, the activities you're planning on, the weather, and more. Based on PackPoint's recommendations, you can add or remove things until you create the ideal packing list for your trip. As you put each item away into your luggage, you can easily check off each thing until the whole list is completed, which makes it a great solution for visual people. PackPoint is the only app you'll need to make sure you never forget something important in your suitcase again.

When you're going on an international trip, you usually have to juggle several different emails or websites to find all of your travel information. Think about it -- you have confirmations for your flight, hotel, your pre-booked tours, your rental car, and they're all randomly floating around in your emails somewhere. It can be pretty annoying to juggle between all these confirmations in the midst of a big travel day.

However, all of that stress is a thing of the past when you download the app TripIt. The premise of this app is pretty simple. It lets you effortlessly organize all your travel plans in one place, so you can just open the app and have your entire itinerary in front of you. All you have to do is email your confirmations to [email protected] every time you book something new. That's all there is to it, and from there, TripIt will develop an itinerary for your whole trip to keep everything tidy.

NordVPN Or Similar VPN Service

Most people don't really think about how vulnerable connecting to an unknown Wi-Fi network makes them. All it takes is one wrong click and you could be giving up all of your digital information. That's why connecting your devices to random Wi-Fi networks on a trip abroad is so sketchy. It can lead you to get your information stolen or way worse.

That's why it's so crucial to use a solid VPN. VPN stands for virtual private network, and it keeps your info protected on the World Wide Web by doing things like hiding your IP address and encrypting your data. It makes it way safer to connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

There are a lot of different VPN options out there, but one of the best is NordVPN. With NordVPN, you can use up to six devices at once, and it has some of the strongest encryption services with 5,000 servers from 60 countries. The other big benefit of having a VPN app while traveling abroad is that it'll allow you to watch streaming service content from other countries.

Uber, Grab, Cabify, Or Similar

Every region in the world has its own variation of a rideshare app, and you'll need to rely on it at some point during an overseas trip. Uber is the largest rideshare app in the world right now with 130 million monthly users and 7.6 billion trips carried out (and counting). It's also available in 72 countries, so if you're not sure which rideshare app to use, it's a safe bet that Uber will have your needs covered on a trip abroad.

However, there are also a few other options if Uber isn't available in the country you're visiting. For example, Grab is a popular rideshare app in Asia; Cabify is widely used in Latin America; and FreeNow is useful in many parts of Europe. Just make sure you figure out which rideshare app is the most widely used in your destination and download it before you arrive because it'll likely be very helpful at the airport .

AccuWeather

Weather can make or break your international trip, and you always want the most accurate information on the go. Lots of people just rely on their phone's weather app or just Google it every time they need an update, but downloading the AccuWeather app is a way better choice. There is real science backing up AccuWeather. More than 100 expert meteorologists work at AccuWeather to provide the most reliable results, and it's been proven that they're doing a really good job.

A study of 120 million weather forecasts over the past four years proved that AccuWeather was the most accurate out of all of them. The app's interface is neatly organized, and it offers a bunch of features you won't get on other weather websites or apps. AccuWeather even shows you when certain weather conditions are expected to stop or start down to the minute. So, you can plan to leave your hotel 10 minutes later to avoid a random rain shower.

It seems inconsequential, but the Flush app can completely save the day when you're traveling abroad and don't really know the terrain yet. Imagine how stressful it would be to try and find a bathroom in a new country overseas without speaking the language or knowing where to look on the streets. With the Flush app, though, you can pinpoint all the public bathrooms around you based on your exact location.

The app features more than 200,000 public toilets listed all over the world. Additionally, it includes important info about the restrooms, like if they have disability access, whether you need to pick up a key to use them, or if you'll need to pay a fee to use the bathroom. When you're out in the middle of a foreign city and desperate to find a bathroom fast, you'll be thankful that the Flush app is downloaded on your phone.

Getting familiar with a new country's public transportation system can be extremely confusing, especially if you're trying to navigate maps and routes in a foreign language you don't understand. The journey is a lot less daunting when you have the Transit app on your phone, though. Transit shows you exactly how to use a city's various public transportation options to get from where you are to your chosen destination.

The directions on Transit are very detailed, including information like how long you'll have to wait between stops, when the next train/bus/etc. is arriving, and telling you exactly when you need to get off at your stop. The app is updated live with incoming trains, so you always know exactly when you need to be ready at the platform or station, too. You'll even be alerted if your train or bus is delayed by a bit or if there are any route closures along your journey. Transit is already available in more than 300 cities across 18 countries so far and counting.

Phone companies charge insane amounts of money for using your phone overseas, but one way to get around those fees is by purchasing a local SIM card for cheap. The main drawback of this solution is that getting a SIM card and understanding the details in a foreign country isn't very fun on a vacation. Instead, opt for Airalo.

Airalo allows you to purchase a local eSIM card through their easy-to-use app without ever having to visit a store in person. The best part is it's super affordable. First, you choose the country you're visiting, then you pick a plan that fits your needs, and then you're good to go. Airalo offers eSIM cards for more than 200 different countries, and it's already used by more than 5 million people around the globe. You can even get a global eSIM that works in more than 130 different countries if you're a full-time traveler.

Read the original article on Explore .

7 of the best all-inclusive experiences to book this year, from a travel planner

• As a travel planner, my clients seem to be increasingly interested in all-inclusive trips .
• Some of my favorite luxury resorts are in Costa Rica, the Maldives, and Isla Mujeres.
• Cruises, group tours, and adults-only lodgings can also come with all-inclusive options. 

As a travel planner at Marvelous Mouse Travels , I know vacations are expensive — especially if you're looking to go somewhere this summer . But all-inclusive travel is often a great way to get the most value out of a luxury experience.

I've been on several all-inclusive vacations with my family, friends, and work, and I've helped other people book them in destinations around the world .

Here are some of the best all-inclusive experiences I'm recommending to my clients this year.

Try a split-stay vacation to see the best of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is one of the most sought-after vacations , and for good reason. It's great for both relaxation and adventure.

I recommend booking a split stay, starting at an all-inclusive resort in Guanacaste near the beach for some fun in the sun and moving to a resort near the famous Arenal Volcano for a jungle adventure.

Some of my favorite resorts in Costa Rica are the Westin Reserva Conchal and the Dreams Las Mareas. And if you're looking for an even more unique experience, check out the glorious swim-out suites with private pools at Dreams.

Baglioni Maldives is one of my favorite all-inclusive resorts.

The Maldives, a remote set of islands in the Indian Ocean, offers a plethora of resort options for couples and families, but Baglioni Maldives is my favorite.

For many in the US, getting to the islands can be daunting — there are very few direct commercial flights, and it can take almost an entire day. But it's hard to beat the country's luxury accommodations and gorgeous landscape.

The Maldives also has some of the most beautiful marine life and coveted spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.

No matter where you go, overwater bungalows are the ultimate all-inclusive splurge.

Overwater bungalows — villas standing on poles over open ocean water — are prevalent at all-inclusive resorts in destinations like the Maldives, Fiji, and Bali.

But I've also come across the luxurious accommodations at select adults-only Sandals Resorts throughout the Caribbean.

I think having a private villa on the water is the perfect way to unwind and relax.

Adults-only vacations are on the rise.

Traveling with kids can be a blast, but I also think it's important for adults to take a much-needed break on their own.

Adults-only resorts have been a total respite for me and my husband after hectic months of juggling work with our kids' school and sports schedules.

If you're looking to unwind with a partner, relax on a girls' trip, or even connect with your adult children, there are countless adults-only, all-inclusive resorts to choose from, depending on where you're looking to visit.

Some properties, including Sandals and Beaches Resorts, also offer butler service. Designated staff members can help with anything from room requests and dining reservations to cabana rentals and transportation coordination.

I upgraded to the service at my favorite adults-only spot, Le Blanc Los Cabos, and I felt totally pampered.

Isla Mujeres is pure luxury.

Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancún, is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise water and peaceful vibe. It's also home to Playa Norte, one of the best beaches in Mexico .

Impressions Isla Mujeres by Secrets is a gorgeous all-inclusive resort on the island. It offers luxury at its finest, but with only 125 rooms, it has a boutique feel.

One of my favorite features of the resort is the waterslide that leads right into the beautiful ocean.

There are plenty of all-inclusive packages at sea.

Cruising is one of the most popular vacations , whether it's an epic adventure on a Royal Caribbean Cruise, a couples-only journey on Virgin Voyages, or a regal tour of Europe on Viking River Cruises.

Although cruises aren't traditionally considered all-inclusive, with the right booking, they can have the same feel as a luxury resort.

Most cruise bookings include food, nonalcoholic drinks, and live entertainment. If you add beverage packages and excursions in advance, your trip should be fully paid for before you depart.

Book a small-group or private tour if you're looking for adventure.

Group travel is a great way to explore new places while soaking up culture and history.

Popular destinations include Italy, Japan, Costa Rica, and Alaska, and many travel companies take care of everything for you, essentially making it all-inclusive.

I like Adventures by Disney , which offers small-group travel all over the world facilitated by seasoned guides. All the trip details are taken care of, including experiences, food, lodging, and transportation.

Additionally, Kensington Tours offers luxury private travel where every facet of the trip is meticulously planned for you.

• Main content

Atomic Escape 12+

A space age point & click game, mediacity games, designed for ipad.

• #66 in Puzzle

Screenshots

Description.

Uncover a profound secret conspiracy solving puzzles and cracking codes to access the confidential files from a secret space travel project in this first person point and click adventure game set in a beautiful mid century atomic age ranch. -Point and Click Gameplay- Classic Point and Click Fun with modern mechanics, Explore A Beautiful Atomic Ranch with an underground secret facility, Search for clues, Find Items and Solve Puzzles, no Hidden Objects or pixel hunting. -3D Fast Real Time Graphics- Discover a Beautiful Retro futuristic world rendered with colorful high-quality graphics, move fast between scenes with responsive controls, solve clever puzzles taking advantage of 3D puzzle Design. -Challenging Fun to Solve Puzzles- Well Designed and Balanced Puzzles that are fun to solve for the experimented puzzler and friendly for brand new players, All the Puzzles are designed to feel Challenging yet not frustrating. -Beyond this World Storyline- Solve an Atomic Space Travel Conundrum, Discover the amazing secret hidden under an apparently regular Mid Century Atomic Ranch, Crack the codes to Access the Confidential files to reveal the truth about a profound Conspiracy.

Version 1.031

Fixed a small bug in the "Long Range Food Teleporter" puzzle.

App Privacy

The developer, MediaCity Games , 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 Not Collected

The developer does not collect any data from this app.

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

Information

English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

Family Sharing

Up to six family members can use this app with family sharing enabled., more by this developer.

Alice Trapped in Wonderland

The Ghost Town Treasure

The Secret of Crimson Manor

The Lost Fountain

Alice Beyond Wonderland

Escape from Crimson Manor Ep.1

Meta working on travel mode for using Quest headsets during flights after Vision Pro launches with feature

Today I learned two things. First, apparently Meta Quest headsets don’t work on planes? I guess Apple knew to prioritize that feature for Vision Pro. And second, support is reportedly on the way. Add this to the list of ways competition from Vision Pro is making Meta Quest 3 a better product.

For April, Meta released software update v64 that makes Quest 3 passthrough more like Vision Pro, users say. Motion blur is more noticeable, but still clarity is increased. Meta has also added support for viewing spatial videos captured from iPhone 15 Pro.

Now Meta may be planning to introduce flight support as soon as v65 next month. Per @Lunayian on X ( via Nicholas Sutrich ), several code strings reference travel mode for use on a plane.

Early NUX render to introduce "Flight Mode" I found in Meta Quest OS v65 pic.twitter.com/oq2GzCiaZu — Luna (@Lunayian) April 18, 2024

Apple pushes watching movies and TV shows during flights as a key use case for Apple Vision Pro. It’s one of the first things you see at the top of Apple’s website currently.

Surely Meta has taken notice and prioritized travel mode as it positions Meta Quest 3 as a dramatically cheaper solution to Vision Pro with many of the same capabilities.

The most impactful change, however, would be around multitasking. Quest headsets are limited to three app windows at a time right now. Apple Vision Pro has plenty of other limitations, but there’s virtually no limit to how many windows can be placed around a room and used together.

• Zuckerberg says Meta Quest 3 is better than Apple Vision Pro
• Apple Vision Pro is already making the Meta Quest 3 better
• Vision Pro latency by far the best on passthrough; lags behind Meta on angular motion
• Meta confirms spatial video playback coming to Quest one day before Vision Pro launch

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news:

Zac covers Apple news, hosts the 9to5Mac Happy Hour podcast, and created SpaceExplored.com.

US 50 bridge closed west of Gunnison due to safety concerns

Travel advisory.

Gunnison and Montrose Counties  — A safety closure is in place for a bridge on US Highway 50 located west of Gunnison. The Colorado Department of Transportation is closing the bridge at the urging of the Federal Highway Administration and state bridge engineering experts due to the findings of an ongoing safety inspection, which identified anomalies in the bridge on Thursday, April 18. The closure is in place between US 50 Mile Point 131 (intersection with Colorado Highway 92) and MP 138. Local traffic will be allowed through the closure point to reach residences. Motorists should use COtrip to plan an alternate route. See below for more information about the northern and southern recommended alternate routes. CDOT has set up an incident command and will coordinate with local, state and federal agencies in order to respond as quickly and effectively as possible. CDOT has been conducting a special inspection for high-strength steel bridges for the Blue Mesa bridges as required by the Federal Highway Administration. This inspection was required because of known issues with similarly constructed bridges elsewhere in the country. A defect was observed during an early investigation of the bridge at approximately Mile Point 136.3. CDOT immediately brought in a second inspection crew with resources to perform another method for testing whether the defect posed a safety hazard on the bridge. The second inspection took place on Thursday, April 18.  CDOT is continuing to assess the safety of the bridge and to quickly determine options for interim and permanent fixes – and will keep the public informed as soon as more information is available. The bridge closure is located between Gunnison and Montrose. It is located east of the US 50 Little Blue Creek Canyon project, which is currently in a planned winter shutdown.

Recommended Alternate Routes

This closure will create a significant detour for commuters between Montrose and Gunnison. The recommended detour route for through traffic is via Interstate 70 to the north or US 160 to the south. CDOT understands the inconvenience that this creates and is rapidly evaluating options to improve options for residents, businesses, and travelers on the western slope. The northern route is 354 miles and requires approximately six hours of travel time. The southern route is 331 miles and requires nearly 7 hours of travel time. CDOT and local partners are exploring whether it is feasible at this point in the season to clear local seasonal routes that may be able to significantly reduce the detour time for local travelers. 

Know Before You Go

Travelers are urged to “know before you go.” Gather information about weather forecasts and anticipated travel impacts and current road conditions prior to hitting the road. CDOT resources include:

• Road conditions and travel information: COtrip.org
• Download the COtrip Planner app: bit.ly/COtripapp
• Sign up for project or travel alerts: bit.ly/COnewsalerts
• See scheduled construction lane closures: bit.ly/laneclosures
• Connect with @ColoradoDOT on social media: Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube

Remember: Slow For The Cone Zone

The following tips are to help you stay safe while traveling through maintenance and construction work zones.

• Do not speed in work zones. Obey the posted speed limits.
• Stay Alert! Expect the unexpected.
• Watch for workers. Drive with caution.
• Don't change lanes unnecessarily.
• Avoid using mobile devices such as phones while driving in work zones.
• Turn on headlights so that workers and other drivers can see you.
• Be especially alert at night while driving in work zones.
• Expect delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Allow ample space between you and the car in front of you.
• Anticipate lane shifts and merge when directed to do so.
• Be patient!

Download the COtrip App!

The new free COtrip Planner mobile app was designed to meet the growing trend of information on mobile and tablet devices for the traveling public. The COtrip Planner app provides statewide, real-time traffic information, and works on mobile devices that operate on the iOS and Android platforms. Visit the Google Play Store (Android devices) or the Apple Store (iOS devices) to download!

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How to Fly Your Kid Solo, Free of Stress

By Alexander Nazaryan

For many parents and guardians, putting a child on a flight alone may seem terrifying. Belligerent passengers, delays, turbulence: All loom large in a caregiver’s imagination.

Life sometimes leaves no other option. Hudson Crites , 17, of Marshall, Va., was 10 when he started flying unaccompanied to visit his father in Kansas and later Georgia, said his mother, Chelsea Tippett. But the extra attention from airline staff made Hudson “feel special,” Ms. Tippett recalls. Other than a single tarmac delay, he has had no problems.

On rare occasions, children have had troubling experiences. In December, Spirit Airlines accidentally flew a 6-year-old to Orlando, Fla., instead of the intended destination of Fort Myers. Spirit apologized, fired the gate agent responsible and offered reimbursement to the boy’s grandmother for her travel to Orlando. But while the boy was unharmed, his grandmother expressed worry that he had been kidnapped .

If you decide to fly your child unaccompanied, you’ll discover that each airline has its own procedures, fees and routes open to children. While some may find the process complicated, flying alone may be exciting for your child, instilling some independence. Here’s what you need to know.

Before you book, know the process

Regardless of the airline or route, flying an unaccompanied minor differs from an adult or a family catching a flight. Airlines require a trusted pre-authorized adult to be at the departure and arrival gates, and will ask you at booking to provide contact information for those adults. They will also need to present identification at the terminals.

The journey begins at the originating airport’s airline ticket counter. There, airline staff will check your identification and check in the child, perhaps handing them a lanyard or wristband to wear. The agents will provide you with a pass to get through security with your child. You will accompany them to the gate, where you will hand them off to a gate agent. You must stay at the gate until the plane takes off.

In the air, the flight crew will keep watch — but will not babysit, or sit with, your child. If the flight has a connection, a crew member will walk your child off the plane and a gate agent will take him or her to the next gate.

At the arrival airport, the child will be handed off by staff to the authorized guardian or parent who should have already checked in at the ticket counter with proper identification, gone through security with their gate pass and be waiting at the gate.

To learn more about this process, read the Department of Transportation’s online guide, “When Kids Fly Alone,” followed by the website of your selected carrier.

Choosing an airline and paying an extra fee

Before purchasing a ticket, experts advise you to consider an airline’s on-time performance. “Solid on-time performance is hard-earned, and signals a carrier that has tight control of its operation,” said the Ask the Pilot author, Patrick Smith. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics has those numbers.

Booking procedures vary. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines require you to call. United Airlines allows bookings online. JetBlue Airways does online bookings, too, but asks for three printed copies of its forms upon arrival at the airport.

International flights may call for a notarized consent letter describing where the child is traveling, with whom they’ll stay and how long they’ll be there.

On top of the ticket fare, flying an unaccompanied minor can be pricey.

Southwest Airlines charges $100 one way for each child, regardless of distance. Alaska Airlines charges $50 per child if the flight is nonstop; a connection adds $25. On Delta, one $150 fee will cover up to four children, and American’s $150 covers all siblings, with no cap on number. United charges $150 for one child, or two children flying together.

Restrictions: There are plenty

U.S. carriers allow children to fly as unaccompanied minors once they turn 5 and before they turn 18. But regardless of your child’s age, make sure he or she is ready by discussing the trip details and your expectations of their behavior. No policy can replace your judgment.

The low-cost carriers Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air don’t allow unaccompanied minors, Other airlines have restrictions that, in the broadest terms, differentiate between young children and teenagers. American and Delta restrict children under 8 from routes requiring connections. Both airlines allow children between 8 and 14 to take some connecting flights.

On American, no unaccompanied minor is allowed to take an overnight flight requiring a connection, or a flight that includes a connection on its final leg that also happens to be the last such flight that day (“unless it’s the only flight,” the company adds). Minors are not allowed on code-share flights.

United and Delta have similar rules. Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit don’t allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights.

JetBlue prohibits minors from flying to Europe, and limits the number of unaccompanied minors in one party to three. Spirit does not allow children on flights to Central or South America. Southwest doesn’t allow children on any international flights. American, United and Delta let minors fly abroad, but restrictions on connections, code-shares and overnights limit options.

American and Delta allow children to opt out of flying as unaccompanied minors once they turn 15 — that is, the child can fly without the assistance of airline personnel. JetBlue ends unaccompanied minor service at 14, while Alaska has an opt-out option at 13. Southwest boasts the lowest opt-out age: 12.

However, you should be able to accompany your child to the gate even if they’re not flying unaccompanied. American requires that you do so for teens between the ages of 15 and 17, even if they’ve opted out.

What to pack

Have a plan to head off your child’s hunger, boredom and thirst. If they are older, make sure they have emergency money and a charged phone.

When her two daughters, then 9 and 11, flew to Denver, Joey Conover of Charlottesville, Va., had a long list for their carry-ons.

“Pack a backpack with iPad, headphones, lightweight book to read, a pad of paper and colored pencils (markers might smear), a small travel game, water bottle (bring empty and fill in airport), snacks, some kind of surprise fidget or animals to play with, hoodie, and a lovey,” she wrote in an email.

“Write your name and phone number on the inside of their arm in Sharpie and put a parent’s business card in a luggage tag on both suitcase and backpack,” Ms. Conover said. (A sheet of paper with all their identification, and their guardian’s contact information, also works. Simply stick in an easy-to-access pocket.)

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .