Traveling has become so much easier with the rise of mobile apps designed to help us on the go. As a frequent traveler, I’ve found that certain apps really make travel more smooth and enjoyable. There are countless helpful travel apps out there, but starting with these ten will set you up for success. These are the ten essential travel apps that I would recommend my friends and family to download to their travel folders.
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Table of Contents
1. Google Maps
Google Maps for me is a must-have. This might be the most important one on this list. Whether it be looking for restaurants and having reviews right at your fingertips or navigating public transportation in an unfamiliar city, it really does so much. You can even download maps for offline use, which is incredibly useful in areas with spotty internet. I’ve used Google Maps extensively on my travels; it is probably my most-used app.
2. TripCoin
TripCoin simplifies the process of tracking travel expenses. This app helps you track your spending by categorizing expenses and providing detailed reports. I use it to calculate all my spending for the blog posts on this site. I love that you can input costs in different currencies, making it ideal for international travel.
Get the TripCoin app here (iPhone only).
3. Booking.com
Booking.com is a comprehensive platform for finding accommodations, and once you reach Genius level, there are some great deals. I’m not loyal to any platform; I book wherever is cheapest, but I have used Booking.com enough to gain status and it’s really been my go-to especially in certain parts of the world.
I’ve booked countless stays through Booking.com, from cozy bed and breakfasts to hotels in cities. It’s especially great for smaller hotels and bed and breakfasts particularly throughout Europe.
4. HostelWorld
For budget travelers and backpackers, HostelWorld is the go-to app. It makes it really easy to just pop in a destination and sort by best ratings. Especially if you’re booking things on the go it’s a great app to have. I really love the chat feature where you can connect with other travelers traveling to the same hostel ahead of time.
I’ve even found some of my best non-hostel accommodation deals ever on hostel world.
5. Your Airline’s App
Downloading your airline’s app is really worth it. Some are better than others, but since I am not loyal to one airline, I make sure to download the app for the airline I am flying with on a particular trip. The apps are great for mobile check-in, boarding pass storage, real-time flight updates, and even in-flight entertainment options. It’s a convenient way to stay informed and prepared for your flight.
6. Airalo
Staying connected while traveling is crucial for most people, and Airalo provides an easy solution. This app offers eSIMs that allow you to purchase data plans for different countries without the need for a physical SIM card. It’s perfect for travelers who need reliable internet access on the go.
While physical SIM cards often offer better value, the convenience of an eSIM and being connected as soon as you land, especially on solo trips, is invaluable. I love that you can also get it for regions, so moving between countries doesn’t require switching plans. Unless you’re staying in a country for a month+ I really find the eSIM to be worth it for convenience.
7. CBP Mobile Passport Control (US Travelers)
This has been such a helpful, underrated app. For U.S. travelers, the CBP Mobile Passport Control app allows you to submit your passport and customs declaration information electronically, speeding up the process at U.S. entry points.
Many people don’t know about it, and it works at many big U.S. airports. I have skipped super long lines at O’Hare and gone straight to the front of the special line. Sometimes there’s not even great signage about where to go for this, but I’ve always found it by asking someone.
Get the CBP Mobile Passport Control app here.
8. Timeshifter
The first time I was really worried about dealing with jet lag was my trip to Thailand. I was skeptical about whether the app would help, but I followed it to a T, and it worked like a charm. I had practically no jet lag after landing in Thailand and started my trip feeling good instead of lagging for days.
The Timeshifter app helps you adjust to new time zones with personalized plans based on your travel schedule. It tells you when to seek or avoid light, take naps, and consume caffeine, helping you sync your body clock quickly.
9. Google Translate
Google Translate is a must-have if you’re traveling to countries where you don’t know the language. I use it most for translating images, which is so helpful for menus, signs, etc. Most recently, I’ve used it for communicating about laundry services. It really makes it easier to interact with locals and enjoy authentic experiences.
Get the Google Translate app here.
10. Uber
I’ve only used Uber a few times on my trips, but it is essential to download before you go (if you won’t have access to your mobile number for two factor authentication). I always think I won’t end up using it but ended up using it to get to the airport in Dubrovnik, Croatia, when there wasn’t a great public transport option for my early flight.
Uber is available in many countries and can be a great backup plan even if you usually public transportation like me. It provides a safe and reliable way to get around without the stress of haggling with taxi drivers.
Bonus: TooGoodToGo
This app isn’t essential, but it is fun! Food waste is a significant issue, and TooGoodToGo helps combat this while offering people affordable meals. The app connects users with local restaurants and bakeries that have surplus food at the end of the day. The app only has a few offerings in my hometown, so it’s fun while traveling to bigger cities to see what I can get!
Essential Travel Apps: Final Thoughts
Travel can be complex, but with the vast amount of tools out there it becomes much more manageable and enjoyable. From navigating new cities with Google Maps and managing expenses with TripCoin to finding great deals on Booking.com and staying connected with Airalo, these essential travel apps cover all the bases.
Don’t wait until you’re already on the road to download these essential travel apps (especially Uber, I’ve been there 😬).