Having the right applications on your phone makes a massive difference while traveling. These 13 must have travel apps will become your go to for travel.
I have personally tested each and every one of these applications for travelling. These 13 applications have a wide range of uses, from photography and currency conversion to navigation and communication. All of these apps are free and are ones which I actually use. None of this is sponsored content; it’s an honest recommendation of what a find genuinely useful for travelling.
1. Cloud Storage for Photos
While this isn’t a specific application, having cloud storage for your photographs is essential, especially while traveling. If you do not already one set up, this is a must before setting off. Cloud storage works by automatically uploading all your photos whenever your phone connects to Wi-Fi. You can then view these photos using your account on any compatible device.
Why do I need cloud storage for traveling?
Cloud storage provides peace of mind, ensuring your precious memories are backed up even it something happens to your phone.
These are the most popular options which I would recommend:
- iCloud (iOS only)
- Google Photos
- OneDrive
- Dropbox
- Amazon Photos (included with prime)
While there are a lot of options, it’s worth investigating what works best for you. Things to consider include cost, storage size and accessibility. You might already have one of the options included with your phone.
2. Quick currency conversion – XE Currency
When it comes to converting foreign currencies, the XE Currency app is king. This app allows you to quickly see the currency conversion rate of multiple currencies. It even works offline using the conversion rate when you were last connected.
Before I found this I often struggled to work out how much I was being charged for something. The alternative is to just type it into a search engine, but being able to see multiple currencies and offline mode makes this an essential travel app.
3. Find Somewhere to Stay – Booking.com
Booking.com is my go to app for finding accommodation while travelling. Booking.com offers a large range of options including hostels, hotels and guest houses.
Bonus: Hostelworld
For hostel booking, Hostelworld is a useful alternative. Specialising in hostels, Hostelworld may have options that aren’t listed on Booking.com. Compare both for the best price, as often one will be cheaper. Hostelworld also has integrated social features to meet travellers from around the world.
Note: Once you have found a place you like, consider checking if the accommodation has its own website. Often the best value can be found there.
4. Go For a Hike – AllTrails/komoot
When it comes to apps for the outdoors, AllTrails and komoot are ideal for your next hike. Their topographic maps, hiking trails and user feedback make planning outdoor activities a breeze. It’s much more effective than trying to plan a hike on Google Maps. I have listed them both here as I find the number of trails depends on where in the world you are.
5. Digital Travel Journal – Day One Journal
Day One is perfect for digital journaling. I have used it on and off for several years. It is a great way to capture your thoughts, feelings and daily experiences. It also includes automatic location tags, weather records the option to upload photos, videos and voice notes. If digital journaling is your style I can definitely recommend it!
6. Find that Flight – Kiwi.com
When it comes to searching for flights, Kiwi.com stands out. Kiwi has become my preferred flight booking application. Its powerful search function allows you to search for the best flights to and from entire countries. It also lets me select a date range for the departure and return, offering flexibility in travel planning.
Note: The power of Kiwi is awesome while planning. For example, say I want to fly from Spain to Italy any time in the second week of August. But I don’t know where I will be in in Spain at that point. Kiwi can show me the cheapest and most direct options between ALL airports the in Spain and Italy. Using this information I can then plan to be in a certain city at a certain time to catch the best value flight.
7. Know Where You’re Going – Google Maps
A staple for travellers, Google Maps needs no introduction. But are you using it to it’s full potential? Check out my guide on how to best use google maps here.
8. Get Offline Hike, Bike, Trails and Navigation – Organic Maps
For reliable offline maps, Organic Maps is an excellent free option. Once you have downloaded a map, it works completely offline, with no ads, no tracking and no data collection. Organic Maps focuses on doing one thing really well, mapping, making a great choice for travelers, hikers and cyclists.
Note: If you are familiar with Maps.me, this is a great alternative. Organic Maps uses the same base map as Maps.me. While Organic Maps may not be as fully featured as AllTrails/komoot (mentioned above), I have used it hiking and found it great for navigation.
9. Split the Bill, Evenly – Splitwise
Splitwise revolutionises expense tracking with a group. This application is such a game changer. No more manual calculations, no more spreadsheets. Just enter the bill, mark who paid and Splitwise will do the rest. I would highly recommend this application to anyone.
10. Message People All Over – WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a global messaging app widely used in 63 countries. If you do not already have a WhatsApp account, now is the time to get one. Being from Australia (and those from USA/Canada) I just used Facebook Messenger. Turns out that I was not in the majority. Most places tend to use WhatsApp. It’s a must have for communication during your travels.
11. Communicate in Different Languages – Google Translate
Google Translate comes to the rescue when language barriers arrive. While traveling, understanding something is by no means guaranteed (which is part of the fun). Use if offline (just download a language beforehand) and take advantage of features like conversation mode and camera translation.
Get it on iOS, Android or just access it online.
Bonus: DeepL
For more accurate translations, consider using DeepL. DeepL aims to be the “worlds most accurate translator”. If you are interested in learning a langue more in-depth, this is for you. Just note that it does not support every language.
12. Know What to Pack – Packpoint
Packpoint designs a custom packing list for you. I’ve only recently discovered this one. Simply choose where you are going, how long for, and the activities you will be doing while there. Packpoint looks at the weather and does the rest. You can also edit the packing list (add or delete items) to further customise it to your individual needs.
13. Track and Share you Travels – Polarsteps/FindPengins
Polarsteps and FindPenguins create a digital journal and map of your adventures. They have automated tracking which you can just set and forget. Plus you can share your travel stories with friends and family in real time. Choose Polarsteps for the larger user base or FindPenguins for the better tracking features.
Note: Check out my FindPenguins Review. I am in the process of finalising my review for polarsteps, subscribe to keep updated.
Conclusion
That is it for my curated list of best travel apps for 2024. I have included apps from various categories all of which help different aspects of your travel. These apps are your essential companions for a seamless travel experience.
What are your essential travel apps? Share your favourites in the comments below.
Happy exploring!
Kieren