No frequent traveller should climb aboard an aircraft without these useful travel apps loaded onto their mobile phones. All are available on both iOS and Android
PLAN YOUR TRIP
TripAdvisor
The synonymous digital resource when it comes to user reviews of accommodation and attractions. It literally has millions of reviews, opinions, videos and photos of bars, restaurants, hotels, airlines and more. The “Near Me Now” feature alerts you of nearby points of interest.
Packpoint
Stopping just short of actually packing your suitcase, this app will ask you what activities you’ll be doing on your trip, assesses the weather forecast for the dates and location of your trip, and suggest a list of items you should pack.
Airbnb
It needs no introduction – this poster child for disruptive tech networks private apartments or houses available for short-term stays in more than 190 countries.
GETTING AROUND
Google Maps
Hands down the best navigation app around, it gives you updated directions for travel by car, on public transit, on foot, or by bicycle. If you’re wary of data costs when travelling abroad, you can also download specific areas for offline use.
Uber
Active in about 84 countries and more than 800 cities, this is the most-used ridesharing app on the planet. Rather than trying to find a taxi, it brings one straight to you, on demand. And there’s no cash needed, you can securely pay your fare using a credit card.
JUST PLAIN USEFUL
WiFi Map
With a database of more than 100 million hotspots updated by the app’s seven million users, Wifi Map points you to the nearest wireless connection. The free version shows any networks within 2km of your current location, while the paid version lets you download an entire city’s wifi maps.
XE Currency
Still the go-to currency converter app, it’s constantly being updated and offers live exchange rates for every world currency. To save data costs, it will store the most recent rates allowing it to function if your device is offline.
Google Translate
Convert words, phrases and short sentences between more than 100 different languages with a data connection and 59 offline. In addition, visual translation features have been added, allowing you to translate text and signage with the aid of your camera.
HotelTonight
An excellent source of last-minute accommodation, HotelTonight partners with hotels to offer discounts on empty rooms, and you’ll be able to book one in under 10 seconds. You can search by category and quality such as Basic, Hip or Luxe; and there’s 24/7 customer service within the app too.
AND WHEN YOU GOTTA GO….
Flush
There’s nothing like sprinting around a foreign city looking for a toilet when you desperately need one. The Flush app will help you find relief by locating the nearest public restroom.
By Steve Smith
