Planning for a trip can be an exhilarating yet daunting task. But, thanks to technology, there are many travel apps available to help you make your journey smoother and stress-free. Here are some of the most versatile and handy travel apps to download for your next trip.
Google Translate
One of the most practical apps to have on your travel journey is Google Translate. It's more than just a text translation tool. This app can translate photos and even live conversations, making it a perfect companion for communicating with locals or translating signages. Although translating menus can be a bit tricky due to idioms, it's still helpful to get the gist of what you're about to order.
WhatsApp is a globally recognized messaging platform used by individuals and businesses alike. The encryption it provides adds a layer of security to your conversations. It's a good idea to add contacts, like your apartment hosts, into WhatsApp before departing on your trip.
Google Maps
Google Maps is an indispensable tool for navigating, whether you're driving, walking, or exploring new places. One of its best features is the ability to download areas for offline use. Simply zoom in on the area you want to save and type "OK Maps" in the search bar. It also allows you to create shared lists for your travel group, making the planning process more collaborative.
OANDA
OANDA is a finance platform with a handy currency calculator feature. It allows you to adjust the commission rate, which is useful for knowing what exchange rates will be on different cards. Although the app provides general guidelines for rates, it's always best to confirm the exact rates with your providers.
Surfshark or NordVPN
Surfshark and NordVPN are among the top-rated VPN apps that can help protect your data from theft, especially on public networks. You can choose to pay monthly if you only need it for one trip, or go for an annual subscription. NordVPN has more servers, while Surfshark is a bit cheaper.
FlightAware
FlightAware is a comprehensive aviation app that provides real-time updates on private and commercial flights worldwide. Track your flight, find out where your plane is coming from, and get updates on delays and gate changes. Even though airlines apps provide similar information, FlightAware tends to offer quicker updates.
Mobile Passport Control
Mobile Passport Control offers a faster customs clearance process. It's a free service, separate from Global Entry. Enter your family's information into the MPC app and head to the usually shorter MPC line. As of now, Mobile Passport Control is available in 33 US airports and 9 pre-clearance airports in Ireland, Canada, and Abu Dhabi.
Budgeting Apps
Having a budgeting app can make managing your travel expenses a breeze. TravelSpend is a good choice for general travel budgeting. It allows you to create a budget, categorize expenses, and spread costs over several days. For group travel, Splitwise is an excellent tool that helps you divide and keep track of shared expenses.
Other Apps
Local metro or rail apps, tourism or museum apps can offer you detailed and specific information about your destination. They allow you to download tickets, audioguides, and confirmations offline.
Note-taking apps like Google Keep Notes and voice notes (speech to text) can help you jot down important details or ideas on the go.
So, what's your go-to travel app? With the right selection of apps in your digital toolkit, you can make your travel experience more enjoyable and organized. Happy travels!
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