An estimated 95% of Americans own a cellphone, according to Pew Research Center . The vast majority of those little handheld devices now taking over the nation are considered a “smartphone” capable of connecting to the internet and capable of downloading apps.
Though these cellphones have most certainly ruined the dinner table experience forever, they have made many things exponentially easier. And that includes travel.
From planning a trip to packing, translating, and keeping track of your money on the go, cell phones—particularly the apps they can contain—can be a gamechanger. Here are 13 apps to download that can help you craft and take your next perfect vacation.
Planning Apps
App in the Air
If you only have room on your phone for one travel app make it App in the Air . The app acts as a personal travel assistant and keeps every piece of travel information all in one place.
Inside the app, users can store loyalty program information, boarding passes, check out departure times, as well as wait times at security, check-in, and baggage claim. Perhaps best of all, travelers can use the app’s virtual reality to measure their carry-on to ensure it will fit in the overhead compartment.
TripIt
For an alternative travel assistant app try TripIt . In the app, users can store their travel itineraries and documents. Travelers can also have all their reservations, including air and hotel, sent directly to the app so they can easily be found.
Beyond documents, the app also allows users to share their trip information with whoever is picking them up at their airport or train station so they can all stay on the same page.
Skyscanner
Every traveler wants to save money on airfare. And that’s exactly where an app like Skyscanner comes into play. In the app, users search for destinations and dates.
Then, the app does all the heavy lifting by searching thousands of flights to find the cheapest route. If travel dates are flexible it will even suggest the best dates and times to head out on a trip.
Packing Apps
Packing Pro
If overpacking is typically an issue for you, you could try solving the problem with Packing Pro . The app helps users organize their luggage before they set out on their journey by providing users with a checklist—breaking down every item they would need in every category.
With the app, users input their destination along with the predicted weather and any other relevant information, such as if they will have access to a washing machine or if they will need a bathing suit.
Then, the app offers a list to work off of so users can avoid ever overpacking again. It will even remind users if they need to renew their passports and if they need certain vaccines before traveling.
PackPoint
PackPoint is a lot like Packing Pro, only it takes things one step further by telling —rather suggesting — what to pack. Based on the length of your trip, the weather, and the activities travelers are taking part in, the app creates a list of things to put in their bag.
It will also allow users to plug in information such as if they’ll have access to laundry and just how many times you’ll have to wash each item to get the most wear.
Transportation Apps
Uber
Uber is one of the most ubiquitous ride-sharing apps in the world. And that fact makes it a must download app for traveling. On the app, users can hail a ride from the airport to their hotel and everywhere in between.
Uber is also increasing its security measures by sending users push alerts about their driver before they get in the car, making it one of the safest ways to get around a new destination too.
LoungeBuddy
If your travels include a long layover, you could try to mitigate the boredom with LoungeBuddy . The app gives users access to airport lounges around the globe. It even includes photos and a list of amenities users can expect in each space.
The app also explains restrictions, cost of lounge access, and more so you can plan your day in the airport accordingly.
At Your Gate
Nothing’s worse than getting hungry while waiting for your plane. Luckily At Your Gate exists. The app functions like Seamless and GrubHub, and allows users to order anything right to their gate.
And it’s not just food. The app also allows users to order retail products as well. The app is currently only available at a few major airports including JFK’s Terminal 7, but due to its ease of use and high ratings, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see it expand soon.
Language Apps
DuoLingo
Prior to taking an international vacation, it may be wise to learn a bit of the local language. Perhaps one of the easiest ways to learn a few words and phrases is with the DuoLingo app. The app comes preloaded with lessons on hundreds of different languages.
The app allows users to learn new words in minutes and reinforces the learnings through bite-sized follow-ups. The app also allows users to earn points during their lessons, challenge friends, and even shows users just how fluent they’ve become after each lesson.
Google Translate
If you haven’t had time to learn a new language by your next trip that’s okay, because Google Translate exists. The app can translate more than 100 languages when you have an internet connection, as well as several dozen languages in offline mode.
Beyond voice translation, the app also comes with an instant camera translation that allows users to snap a photo of street signs, menus, and more and have the text instantly translated. Users can also save frequent or favorite translations in the app to make getting around even easier.
Money Apps
SoFi Checking and Savings
Wherever you go, you can bring all your finances with you with the SoFi Checking and Savings® app. With SoFi Checking and Savings, users can have access to all their finances in one spot thanks to the mobile-first checking and savings account.
And, with the checking and savings account, users can pay bills, deposit checks, and send friends and family money, all through the app.
And with SoFi Checking and Savings, withdrawing cash is fee-free at 55,000+ ATMs worldwide.
XE Currency
Not sure how much something costs in a different country? Try the XE Currency app. The app quickly provides users with up-to-the-minute currency rates so you always know what you’re spending.
It also allows users to store and view the currency exchanges offline as well. This way, you never have to do currency exchange rates in your head again.
And One App For After Your Trip
Been
Now that you’re on the road it’s time to keep track of your travels. One of the most fun apps to download for travelers is Been . The app is simple and straightforward.
It allows you to check off which countries you’ve visited and which states you’ve been to. Download the app and start tracking your travels so you’re inspired to go on your next adventure with all your new apps too.
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