15 Great Travel Apps

We all use smartphones nowadays and rely on them when on holidays. Despite trying to disconnect from them, is not always easy and the reality is that they can be our best friends when it comes to planning and organising...although you can always go back to the classic notepad...

If you want to make the most of the wonderful available technology, why not try some of the following apps to make your life a little easier when you are out and about. All apps listed below are available for iOS and Android.

Maps.me: A recent discovery and a great travel companion. Download the maps beforehand and get around whilst abroad! The best feature, it detects your location without data.

Skyscanner: We all know it, we all use it. Why wasting your time going from site to site when you can check all the flights in one go? I admit it used to work better in the past when the prices shown were a little bit more reliable..but still a good app to have on your phone.

Rail Planner: If you are planning to travel around Europe by rail, this is your app. Provides information on train schedules and it works offline. Use it to plan your trip in advance or for instantly searching connections at the station.

Google drive: For me, an essential. Keep all your files and pictures in the cloud instead of taking up space on your phone. Google spreadsheets and docs are really handy to keep your itinerary and trip planning notes one click away. You can share files with other people that have a google account and lets them to type simultaneously and add comments to the shared files. Really useful.

Google Trips: In the same line as Google Drive, is also a free app that you can sync with your Google account. It detects all the data referred to flights and hotel bookings in your email and organises it by folders

Clickatick: You are out in a city escape and want to know what's happening in your destination? This app gives you access to shows, guided tours, exhibitions, trips, etc. both free or paid as well as some off the beaten options in cities around the world.

Google Translate: Translate a whole text to your preferred language either typing it in or taking a picture. It does not always get it right but is close enough for a quick check and it may help you to read that unexpected sign! If the languages are previously downloaded, you can use the app offline.

Wordreference: my favourite translator by far. Whilst it doesn't translate whole texts but individual words, it gives you a range of context options to choose from so you can be assured to get it right!

FlySmart: It checks the status of flights in real time including information on departures, delays or cancellations and gate numbers. It also manages the loss of luggage and offers practical data from different airports.

Packpoint: is a free organizer of luggage lists that helps you pack your suitcase depending on the type and duration of your trip, the activities you have planned and the weather forecast at your destination. I personally find it quite handy, and so will you if you are such a planner as I am!

Tripadvisor: This app couldn't be missed off this list. Reviews and pictures of users around the world on hotels, tour agencies, restaurants, transport companies, activities and tourist sites. You can also interact with other users and ask them questions.

Airbnb: I am a big fan of Airbnb and the sharing economy, although I admit is not for everyone and does not suit every situation. However, I have had really good experiences and have interacted more with the locals ever since booking through Airbnb. For me, a must app to have on your phone!

Evernote: An app that I use a lot on my everyday life. Is no different to the notes on your phone but it stores all the info in the cloud which means you can access it from other devices. As a Basic subscriber, you can sync your account using the Evernote app on up to two devices, and on any number of computers using Evernote Web. Keep all your travel information safe and one click away!

Citymapper: although not available in every city in the world, is present in the major cities and is one of the best transport apps out there. I live in London and find this app absolutely essential to move around. Input your origin (it will show your position automatically) and destination and it will find the fastest routes including all major transport links, how long will it take and how much will it cost. Walking routes are also included. The downside, as all information is live it requires WiFi or data connection.

AirHelp: Have you suffered from delays, cancellations or overbooking? No claim, no fee company that allows you to claim compensation without having to wait ages at the counters. You are only charged 25% if your claim succeeds.

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