Get ready to supercharge your travel experience with these easy to download travel apps to elevate your next vacation.
From finding the best local eats to navigating public transportation like a pro, these travel apps are your trusty companions on the road to unforgettable experiences. So, let’s dive in and discover the essential travel tools that will revolutionize your solo travel or digital expat journey!
- Mobile Passport Control
- Google Maps
- Booking
- Yelp/ Tripadvisor
- XE Currency
- Google Translate
- TripLingo
- HelloTalk
Mobile Passport Control
This is the biggest hack of 2023! With this app you are able to skip the passport line upon arrival at a participating US airport. And all for free! Yup, free! Simply fill out your flight information and background for yourself (and other traveling with you!). It takes all of three minutes. Once complete go to the mobile entry lane, similar to Clear or Global Entry. In fact, it’s faster since you don’t have to use a kiosk. Hopefully word doesn’t spread for this one, and the lines remain short.
Google Maps
Say goodbye to getting lost and hello to seamless navigation with Google Maps! This app is the holy grail of travel, providing detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, public transportation information, and even walking directions. Pro Tip: Save important locations, like your hotel or favorite eateries, as offline maps for easy access even when you’re without an internet connection.
Booking
This app connects you with unique accommodations, ranging from cozy hotel rooms to charming villas or apartments, all in one place. The filtering options more variety than most.
Yelp & Tripadvisor
Prepare your taste buds for a gastronomic adventure with Yelp! This app is a foodie’s best friend, offering reviews, ratings, and recommendations for local eateries. Whether you’re craving authentic street food, a trendy brunch spot, or a hidden gem known only to locals, Yelp will guide you to culinary delights that will leave you craving for more.
Pro Tip: Look for eateries with a high number of reviews and positive ratings. Also, don’t forget to leave your own reviews and contribute to the food-loving community.
XE Currency
No more puzzling over unfamiliar currencies! XE Currency is your go-to app for accurate and up-to-date currency conversions. Simply enter the amount in your home currency, select the destination currency, and voilà—quick and easy conversions at your fingertips. It’s perfect for budgeting, tracking expenses, and making sure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Pro Tip: Familiarize yourself with common conversion rates before your trip to have a general idea of costs and prevent any unpleasant surprises.
Google Translate
Prepare to be amazed by the power of Google Translate! This versatile app is a true language chameleon, offering translation for text, voice, and even images. Simply type or speak your phrases, and watch as they’re transformed into the local language of your destination. The app covers a wide range of languages, making it an essential tool for global wanderers.
Pro Tip: Download offline language packs before your trip to ensure translation access even without an internet connection, saving you from those unexpected Wi-Fi dead zones!
This will be your main communication app so that you don’t have to make long distance calls or even need to upgrade your cell service to international. It works off of data so as long as your are connected to Wifi it will work. You will also find that restaurant and entertainment venues will list their whatsapp number which is just the country code and main number together. Pro tip! Sometimes it works best if you store the number as a contact first.
TripLingo
Say bonjour, hola, and konnichiwa to TripLingo, the ultimate language and cultural survival kit for intrepid travelers. This app goes beyond translations, providing essential phrases, slang, and cultural insights specific to your destination. It’s like having a local friend whispering insider tips and language hacks into your ear.
Pro Tip: TripLingo offers a “Wi-Fi Dialer” feature, enabling you to make international calls at local rates directly from the app. Use it to book accommodations, make reservations, or seek assistance when you need it most.
HelloTalk
Ready to make friends while breaking down language barriers? HelloTalk is your gateway to connecting with native speakers from around the world. This language exchange app allows you to chat, voice call, and even video chat with locals who want to practice the language you’re learning. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enhance your language skills while forging meaningful connections.
Pro Tip: Don’t be shy to initiate conversations and ask questions. Locals are often thrilled to share their language, culture, and travel recommendations, making your journey even more enriching.
While these apps are incredibly helpful, don’t forget to occasionally disconnect from your digital devices and fully immerse yourself in the present moment.