11 best travel apps

Mobile apps can make your trip more comfortable. Here are the best traveling apps you can't do without.

Apps for travelers: 11 best

What is the best travel app? The applications we present in this article do not require payment for installation — you can immediately download them and start using.

1. Google Maps — the main guide

This app for travelers is a handy navigation tool. It provides routes for traveling by car, walking tours and using public transport. It can suggest the fastest route based on real-time traffic conditions. Google Maps make it easy to find nearby businesses, restaurants, and attractions.

Pros:

• turn-to-turn routes;
• can be used offline.

Cons:

• can consume a lot of data, especially when using step-by-step instructions (60-100 MB per hour, which can be critical if you pay for data in roaming);
• sometimes gives incorrect information or instructions.

Available for iOS and Android.

Read also: What is data roaming: a guide for travelers

2. Airbnb — plan where to stay

Allows you to search for unique and affordable housing, including apartments, houses and even castles. Contains reviews from other travelers. It is possible to contact the landlords directly if you have any questions or problems.

Advantages:

• you can find options for any budget;
• reviews of other travelers;
• the possibility to send messages and communicate with homeowners directly.

Disadvantages:

• hosts can cancel reservations at the last minute.

Available for iOS and Android.

3. TripAdvisor — all places and locations at your fingertips.

App for travelers, where you will find reviews and ratings of hotels, restaurants and attractions, information about local tours and events.

Pros:

• gives complete travel information;
• the possibility to save and share plans.

Cons:

• reviews are not always objective.

Available for iOS and Android.

Read also: US attractions: X most interesting tourist places

4. Skyscanner — save on travel, flights and accommodation

Allows you to search for the best deals on flights, hotels and car rentals. You can compare prices from different vendors and set up alerts for price cuts or new offers.

Advantages:

• simple and intuitive interface;
• the possibility to compare prices from different suppliers;
• offers alerts for deals and price cuts.

Disadvantages:

• some searches may not include all airlines or travel providers;
• can be less reliable with last minute bookings.

Available for iOS and Android.

5. Wi-Fi Map — if you don't want to pay for roaming

Allows you to find and connect to Wi-Fi hotspots while traveling. The software shows a map of the nearest access points, detailed information about the network name, speed and password (if available).

Wi-Fi Map allows you to download maps for offline use. It is a community-driven platform, where users update their Wi-Fi hotspot information.

Pros:

• extensive Wi-Fi network;
• maps for download.

Cons:

• not all hotspots are free;
• passwords may not always be correct;
• advertising.

If you do not want to look for open access points, spend money on roaming or buy local SIM cards, you can use the Yesim virtual SIM card application. It's easy to keep in touch with it. The app is available all around the world.

6. Rome2rio — plan your itinerary like a local resident

This traveling app is especially useful when planning trips with multiple stops. The software searches for the best routes and modes of transport, including flights, trains, buses, and even ferries.

Advantages:

• a comprehensive travel planning tool with multiple stops;
• comparison of different modes of transport;
• displays the approximate time and cost of the trip.

Disadvantages:

• does not always contain up-to-date and accurate information;
• sometimes makes inefficient or too complicated routes.

Supported platforms: Android and iOS.

7. Duolingo — learn languages before traveling or while traveling

The language learning program will help you learn basic phrases in the local language. It's the best app for travel with fun and an interactive way to improve your skills.

Pros:

• offers many languages to choose from.

Cons:

• may not be sufficient enough for more advanced learning;
• cannot replace speaking practice with native speakers.

Available mobile platforms — Android, iOS

8. XE Currency — transparent exchange rates

Current exchange rates and currency conversion. Useful for budgeting and shopping while traveling abroad.

Advantages:

• works offline;
• saves history of exchange rate data.

Disadvantages:

• may not always show the actual exchange rate when making purchases;
• can consume a lot of data if used frequently.

Can be installed on Android and iOS devices.

9. PackPoint — plan what to take on your trip

A useful traveling app helps you pack your bags by creating a personalized list of things based on destination, duration of stay and planned activities. The software even takes into account the weather forecast.

Pros:

• will not let you forget any essentials;
• simple and easy to use interface.

Cons:

• may not include all necessary items for certain trips.

Can be installed on Android and iOS.

10. Trail Wallet — don't spend your entire budget on the first day

An expense tracker to help you stay within your budget on the way. You can track your expenditure by different categories and currencies.

Advantages:

• may be useful for long-term trips with multiple destinations;
• clear interface.

Disadvantages:

• may not suit all travel options and budgets;
• entering all expenses manually can be time consuming.

Available for Android and iOS.

11. Google Translate — foreign languages are getting closer

You can't list the best apps for travelers without mentioning Google Translate. The app will help you communicate with the locals by translating text and speech to more than 100 languages. The program provides a camera mode that allows you to translate text in real time — useful for reading menus or signs.

Pros:

• talk mode;
• handwriting recognition function;
• voice recognition function.

Cons:

• does not always provide accurate translation, does not allow to consider the translation nuances;
• may be less effective for long and complex conversations.

Available on both popular mobile platforms.

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