Regardless of whether it is for business or leisure, cross country or halfway across the globe, traveling can be both an exciting adventure or a daunting challenge (even both at times). However, the power that is in your smartphone can be an incredible assist on your trip, and not just for the camera and social media. Here are 6 travel apps (we recommend) every traveler needs
Packing Pro (US$2.99)
One part of traveling that you either love or hate is the packing. I personally enjoy packing. Everyone approaches it in different ways; from drawing up detailed lists (good idea) to working through a process of elimination (bad idea).
To help with your packing, consider using a packing app like Packing Pro which is as comprehensive as it is customizable.
Main Features: Create unlimited, 100% user-customizable packing lists • Full iCloud auto-sync support • Packing list backup and share • 800+ items to select from • Easy and intuitive search function • Share, email and print lists • Includes app-wide themes, packing list layout and display choices
Get it on the App Store: Packing Pro • Visit developers website: Quinn Genzel
Google Translate (Free)
Communication is essential for the enjoyment of traveling and sometimes it can make or break a trip. If you will be traveling to a country where English is not the official language, we highly recommend you install Google Translate and get to know how it works.
From figuring out what to order at a cafe or restaurant, to asking for directions, Google translate is an essential app for the modern traveler.
Main Features: Type to translate in 90 different languages • Use your phone's camera to scan and translate text instantly in 26 different languages • Two-way automatic speech translation in 40 different languages
Get it on the App Store: Google Translate • Visit developers website: Google Inc.
Currency Converter Plus (Free - microtransactions for extras)
This premium class currency converter includes 191 currencies from all over the world with online updated conversion rates, which is exactly what you need when travelling to a country which uses a different currency to yours. The Currency Converter Plus app also includes a 'Change back' function which means you longer have to worry about if you have paid the correct amount or recieved the correct change back while traveling.
Main Features: 191 Currencies • Rates for gold, silver, platinum and palladium • Online rates update
Get it on the App Store: Currency Converter Plus • Visit developers website: Kaspre
AccuWeather (Free - remove ads £2.99)
Every day more than an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide rely on AccuWeather to help them plan their lives, protect their businesses, and get more from their day while at home or traveling. AccuWeather provides unique forecasts in more than 100 languages and dialects with Superior Accuracy™ for all locations worldwide – more locations than any other government or private weather source.
Main Features: Current condition weather observations • Weather forecast summary and details • Minute-by-minute precipitation forecast
Get it on the App Store: AccuWeather • Visit developers website: Accuweather
Google Maps (Free)
Not knowing where you are or how to get to where you want to be is one of the greatest fears of many traveler. In days gone by one would have to carry printed maps with you, now all you need is your smartphone (or watch) and you are good to go.
Google Maps is the most comprehensive map app available and with all the latest added features and updates, no traveler should ever leave the house with out it.
Main Features: Comprehensive, accurate maps in 220 countries and territories • Voice-guided GPS navigation for driving, biking, and walking • Transit directions and maps for over 15,000 cities and towns • Live traffic conditions, incident reports, and automatic rerouting to find the best route • Detailed information on more than 100 million places • Street View and indoor imagery for restaurants, museums, and more
Get it on the App Store: Google Maps • Visit developers website: Google Inc.
TripAdvisor (Free)
There is one app that you can use before, during and after your travels and that is TripAdvisor. Be it to find the best accommodation and flights at the best price and to book them, planning daily activities, finding restaurant to dine at or to find interesting places to visit, TripAdvisor is the all-in-one travel app for the modern traveler.
Main Features: Browse millions of reviews, opinions and candid photos by travelers • Find the best hotel for you, including Travelers' Choice award winners • Discover cool things to do in any destination • Get answers to your specific travel questions in the forums • Add your own reviews and photos • Download maps, reviews, and your saves for over 300 cities worldwide onto your phone for free; avoid using expensive data roaming plans while you travel
Get it on the App Store: TripAdvisor • Visit developers website: TripAdvisor
Which travel apps do you use and recommend? Let me know in the comments below.