There’s an app for just about everything – multiple apps, for that matter – and sometimes it’s difficult to know which ones are worthwhile. We’ve done a bit of digging to find the favorites among travelers. Before embarking on that next trip, consider the following to make your journey a little easier, engaging, and better all-around.
Packpoint
Travelers who hate packing, rejoice! Packpoint takes out the guesswork and shows you what to bring based on the length of your journey, the weather in your destination, and the activities you have planned. Packpoint even accounts for repeat wearing of basic items and access to laundry facilities. All you have to do to get started is download the app and enter your travel details – easy packing is just a few clicks away!
Timeshifter
Traveling through different time zones? Timeshifter will help you avoid jet lag long before you take off, as well as offering in-flight and post-flight suggestions. The app itself relies on neuroscience and circadian rhythm research and creates a personalized plan for you based on your age, gender, sleep patterns, and specifics surrounding your travel plans.
Calm
One of the most popular meditation and sleep apps on the market, Calm offers an array of themed meditations, sleep stories, and music. Meditation topics run the gamut and include self-awareness, calming anxiety, breathing, lowering stress levels, and happiness.
Google Maps
With over 220 countries and territories mapped and hundreds of millions of businesses registered, it’s easy to explore your neighborhood and see what’s nearby, get real-time GPS navigation, or traffic and transit info. Pro tip: before you travel, consider downloading your destination’s map for use offline. (Apple | Android)
Google Translate
Easy to use and navigate, the Google Translate App provides access to over 100 languages (over half of which can be accessed while offline). You can also translate bilingual conversations into over 70 languages, translate text in photos, translate through your camera lens, and more. It’s fast, it’s free, and it’s incredibly handy for getting around and communicating in a foreign country. (Apple | Android)
Simple, secure, and reliable messaging. WhatsApp is a great service for travelers abroad as it uses an internet connection to avoid SMS fees. Once downloaded, it syncs with your phone number and all your contacts who are also using the app will be available. Call, video chat, or text, and send images, voice memos, or other files. Group chats are very easy and especially handy when you’re traveling with others. Many international driver and tour services will also ask to connect on WhatsApp to coordinate pick-up times, meeting spots, etc.
XE Currency Converter
Keep track of your funds with the XE Currency Converter. A handy app to check exchange rates when you’re traveling abroad, with live, up-to-the-minute rates that you can store and view off-line. (You can also forego the app and check the website when you’re online.)
TripWhistle
In an emergency, there is no time to waste. Find the right number fast through TripWhistle. With a single touch, you can dial local emergency police, fire, and ambulances anywhere in the world. (Apple | Android)
GyPSy Guide
Hitting the road? GyPSy Guide provides professional tour guide commentary along scenic drives and road trips. Their tours highlight the very best of the region with entertaining stories about history, geology, legends, local tips and driving directions, so all you have to do is drive, listen and soak in the scenery.
[Your Favorite Entertainment App Here]
Be it Netflix, Audible, Blinkist, or something similar, it’s handy to have a few shows, movies, books, or podcasts on hand to pass the time in case there’s no inflight entertainment or you have to endure an unexpected delay. Just make sure to download your episodes while connected to Wi-Fi.
Do you have a favorite app that’s missing?
Drop me a line here. I’d love to know what works well for you!
