Travel Apps You Need For Your Next Trip

There are so many travel related apps out there right now for your smart phone, that it can be exhausting to go through them and pick out what you will actually need. On my travels I have become depended on some travel apps, and I wanted to share them here. They are easy to use and are really useful, both when you are online and out and about without an internet connection. 

Sure, it’s great to switch off and de-tech if you’re relaxing on a beach. But if you’re planning on (for example) sightseeing in Europe or road tripping through the USA, the modern-day conveniences of WiFi and a smartphone can make the journey that much better.

Travel Apps You Need For Your Next Trip

1. Google Maps

Ok, admittedly this one comes as a no-brainer, since Google Maps is pre-installed on most Android phones (iPhone users have to install it in the App Store). Of course Google Maps can be used to see where something is located and see distances between places. But it can be used for so much more. I use it to find reviews of places (like bars and restaurants), as well as a schedule for public transportation (especially in the USA).

2. XE Currency

When you are traveling abroad there is always the fight with currency exchange and getting prices converted at a moments notice. This free app gets it done in a second. You can use it offline as well, as it will save the latest downloaded currencies. You can add any currency in the world. XE Currency is definitely always in use on my phone.

3. CityMaps2Go

This is another map app, but unlike Google Maps which is great for planing but needs wifi, this app downloads the maps when you're online for future use. It then uses the GPS on your phone, to put you on the map. It has lots of features. I use it while I'm inside the city that I'm visiting. Just type in your destination and guide yourself to it through the app. Much better then buying lots of city maps! This app is free.

4. AirBnb

I have long stopped booking hotels since they are getting more costly by the second (I do use booking.com sometimes). AirBnb is more appropriate for me personally. You can book a whole apartment and if you are traveling with friends you can split the daily costs. All that aside, this app is used a lot on my phone. It reminds you of your reservations which you can make directly from the map.

5. Skyscanner

Skyscanner is an essential flight app. You can book your flights through the app which filters out the best prices among many airlines. But I also use...

6. Kayak

... for the same purpose. Finding affordable flights can't be limited to just one place. So you will need many apps for that, but these two are used on my phone the most.

7. Yr.no

Yr.no is a Norwegian weather app (in English of course), which I use most, but I'm sure you can find lots of good ones. I use this one. It's free and very easy to use.

8. TravelSmart

This app is a bit like having an over-protective mother as a kid – it feels slightly lame and unnecessary at the time, but if things go horribly wrong, you’re glad she’s got the hospital on speed-dial and is on a first-name basis with the pharmacist. TravelSmart gives you details of reputable local hospitals, emergency numbers, a drug dictionary and first aid language translations.

9. World Around Me

The ultimate travel app, “World around me” was rated as the Top Traveler App by National Geographic Traveler. You hold the phone at eye level, point the camera at your surroundings and select what you’re looking for – restaurants, bars, ATMs, galleries, stations, pharmacy, gym etc – you name it and "World around me" uses augmented reality technology to find it.

I hope you will find these apps useful for your next trip. Let me know in the comments below if you have any other apps for travel should make this list!

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