What Are The Best Travel Apps To Use While Abroad?

Planning a trip abroad can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming when it comes to ensuring you have everything you need while you’re away. Thankfully, in this digital age, there are a plethora of travel apps available to make your life easier on the go. From navigating unfamiliar cities to finding the best local restaurants and even translating foreign languages, these apps have got you covered. So, before you embark on your next adventure, let’s take a closer look at some of the best travel apps to use while you’re abroad.

Transportation Apps

Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the best travel apps to have on your phone while you are abroad. It provides reliable and accurate navigation, whether you are walking, driving, or taking public transportation. With detailed maps and real-time traffic updates, you can easily find your way around unfamiliar cities. Google Maps also offers public transit directions, making it easy to navigate through different modes of transportation in a foreign country. It even provides information on nearby attractions, restaurants, and public facilities, helping you make the most out of your travels.

Citymapper

Citymapper is another fantastic transportation app that can make your travels abroad much smoother. It provides detailed transit instructions, helping you navigate through complex public transportation systems in major cities around the world. Citymapper offers real-time updates on bus, subway, and train schedules, ensuring that you never miss a connection. Additionally, it provides estimated travel times and prices for various transportation modes, making it easier to plan your journey. With Citymapper, getting around a new city has never been easier.

Uber

Uber has revolutionized the way we travel, and it is an incredibly useful app to have while abroad. With the convenience of requesting a ride at the touch of a button, Uber makes it easy to explore new places without worrying about finding a taxi or navigating public transportation. It is available in major cities worldwide, meaning you can rely on Uber wherever you go. The app also provides upfront pricing, so you know how much your ride will cost before you even step into the car. With Uber, you can enjoy reliable transportation and explore your destination hassle-free.

Lyft

Similar to Uber, Lyft is another popular ride-hailing app that offers convenient transportation options abroad. With Lyft, you can easily request a ride, track your driver’s location, and pay through the app. Lyft takes into account traffic conditions and provides you with an estimate of when you will arrive at your destination. Whether you need a quick ride to the airport or a comfortable car to navigate a new city, Lyft is a reliable and user-friendly option.

Moovit

Moovit is a comprehensive public transportation app that can help you navigate through different cities around the world. It offers detailed transit directions, including bus, subway, train, and ferry routes. Moovit provides real-time updates on schedules, so you can plan your journey accordingly. The app also allows you to track your ride and receive notifications about any delays or changes. Additionally, Moovit offers a valuable feature called “Live Directions,” which provides step-by-step guidance based on your real-time location. With Moovit, it is easier than ever to get around unfamiliar cities using public transportation.

Translation Apps

Google Translate

When traveling to a country with a language barrier, Google Translate is a must-have app. It allows you to translate text, speech, and even images into different languages. With its extensive library of languages and accurate translations, Google Translate can help you communicate with locals, read signs and menus, and navigate through unfamiliar environments. The app also offers a conversation mode, where it translates spoken words in real-time, making it easier to have a conversation with someone who doesn’t speak your language. Google Translate is an invaluable tool for breaking down language barriers and enhancing your travel experience.

Duolingo

If you want to go beyond basic translations and truly immerse yourself in a foreign language, Duolingo is the app for you. It offers interactive language courses in over thirty languages, helping you learn vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Duolingo’s gamified approach makes language learning fun and engaging, allowing you to progress at your own pace. Whether you want to learn the basics or become fluent in a new language, Duolingo can help you achieve your language learning goals while you travel.

iTranslate

iTranslate is an excellent translation app that offers accurate translations in over 100 languages. It supports text, voice, and even website translations, making it a versatile tool for communication. iTranslate also offers a conversation mode, where it translates spoken words in real-time, allowing you to have fluid conversations with locals. The app also includes a dictionary, verb conjugations, and pronunciation guides to help you navigate through different languages. iTranslate is a reliable travel companion for overcoming language barriers and connecting with people from different cultures.

Pleco

Pleco is a popular translation app specifically designed for those traveling to China or learning the Chinese language. It offers a comprehensive English-Chinese dictionary, complete with pronunciation guides and example sentences. Pleco also supports optical character recognition (OCR), allowing you to scan and translate Chinese characters from signs, menus, or printed materials. With its robust features and user-friendly interface, Pleco is a valuable tool for anyone exploring the Chinese language and culture.

Speak & Translate

Speak & Translate is a convenient translation app that enables you to communicate effectively in foreign languages. It supports voice translation, allowing you to speak into your phone and have it translated into different languages in real-time. The app also offers text translation, offline translation, and even the ability to translate conversations between multiple people. Speak & Translate is a reliable companion for breaking down language barriers and engaging with locals during your travels.

Currency Conversion Apps

XE Currency

XE Currency is a popular currency conversion app that allows you to easily convert currencies while traveling. It provides accurate and up-to-date exchange rates for over 180 currencies, ensuring that you have the most accurate information at your fingertips. XE Currency also offers historical charts, allowing you to track currency trends and make informed financial decisions. With its user-friendly interface and reliable data, XE Currency is a go-to app for managing your finances overseas.

OANDA Currency Converter

OANDA Currency Converter is another trusted app for currency conversions. It provides access to reliable exchange rates for over 190 currencies, ensuring that you can quickly convert currencies wherever you are. OANDA Currency Converter also offers a handy feature called “Mode Switcher,” which allows you to switch between different conversion modes, such as standard mode or travel mode. This app is a reliable tool for anyone looking to stay on top of currency exchanges while abroad.

XE Currency Pro

XE Currency Pro is the premium version of the XE Currency app, offering additional features and functionalities. It provides all the benefits of XE Currency, such as accurate exchange rates, historical charts, and support for over 180 currencies. XE Currency Pro also offers customizations, allowing you to select your favorite currencies for quick and easy access. With its advanced features and ad-free experience, XE Currency Pro is a valuable app for frequent travelers or those who need extra currency conversion capabilities.

Currency Converter Plus

Currency Converter Plus is a straightforward and easy-to-use app for currency conversions. It provides real-time exchange rates for over 150 currencies, ensuring that you always have the most up-to-date information. Currency Converter Plus also allows you to save and track your favorite currencies, making it convenient to monitor exchange rates. With its simple interface and reliable data, Currency Converter Plus is a great tool for managing your finances while traveling.

Coinbase

Coinbase is a unique app that combines currency conversion with the world of cryptocurrencies. It allows you to buy, sell, and store various cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. Coinbase also provides exchange services, enabling you to convert cryptocurrencies into traditional currencies and vice versa. With its secure platform and user-friendly interface, Coinbase is a convenient app for anyone interested in diversifying their currencies and exploring the world of cryptocurrencies while abroad.

Accommodation Apps

Booking.com

Booking.com is a leading accommodation app that offers a wide range of options for all types of travelers. Whether you are looking for hotels, apartments, hostels, or even vacation rentals, Booking.com has you covered. The app provides detailed information about each property, including photos, reviews, and amenities, helping you make an informed decision. Booking.com also offers flexible booking options, allowing you to easily modify or cancel your reservations. With its extensive selection and user-friendly interface, Booking.com is a go-to app for finding the perfect accommodation during your travels.

Airbnb

Airbnb has revolutionized the way people travel, offering unique and affordable accommodation options around the world. With Airbnb, you can choose from a wide range of properties, including entire homes, private rooms, and even unique stays such as treehouses or boats. The app provides detailed property listings, complete with photos, reviews, and host profiles, allowing you to find the perfect place to stay. Airbnb also offers secure booking and payment options, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience while exploring new destinations.

Agoda

Agoda is a popular accommodation app that specializes in offering the best hotel deals. With Agoda, you can search and book hotels in destinations worldwide, with options ranging from budget-friendly to luxury accommodations. The app provides comprehensive hotel listings, including photos, reviews, and detailed information about each property. Agoda also offers exclusive deals and promotions, allowing you to save money on your accommodation. With its extensive network and competitive prices, Agoda is a reliable app for finding great hotel deals during your travels.

HotelTonight

HotelTonight is a unique accommodation app that offers last-minute hotel deals. If you find yourself in need of a place to stay on short notice, HotelTonight can help you find available rooms at discounted rates. The app provides a curated selection of hotels in various destinations, ensuring that you have access to the best deals in real-time. HotelTonight also offers a seamless booking process, with the ability to book a room with just a few taps on your phone. Whether you are a spontaneous traveler or need a backup plan, HotelTonight is a convenient app to have while on the go.

Hostelworld

For budget travelers or those seeking a social and communal experience, Hostelworld is the go-to app for booking hostels worldwide. Hostelworld offers a wide selection of hostels in various destinations, allowing you to find affordable accommodations and connect with fellow travelers. The app provides detailed hostel listings, including photos, reviews, and information about amenities and activities offered. Hostelworld also has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to search, compare, and book hostels. With its focus on affordability and community, Hostelworld is an ideal app for budget-conscious travelers looking for unique experiences.

Local Recommendations Apps

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is a comprehensive travel app that offers a wealth of information and recommendations from fellow travelers. With TripAdvisor, you can find honest reviews, ratings, and photos of hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more. The app allows you to browse through popular destinations, read travel guides, and plan your itinerary based on recommendations from real travelers. TripAdvisor also offers a feature called “Near Me Now,” which provides personalized recommendations based on your location. With its vast community and trusted reviews, TripAdvisor is a must-have app for discovering the best local experiences while abroad.

Foursquare

Foursquare is a popular app for discovering and sharing recommendations for restaurants, bars, and attractions. With Foursquare, you can search for places based on your location, browse through user-generated tips, and save your favorite spots for future reference. The app also offers personalized recommendations, taking into account your preferences and previous check-ins. Foursquare allows you to discover hidden gems and popular local spots, ensuring that you have an authentic and memorable travel experience.

Yelp

Yelp is another widely-used app for finding local recommendations and reviews. Whether you are looking for restaurants, cafes, shops, or services, Yelp provides detailed information and user-generated reviews to help you make informed decisions. The app allows you to browse through different categories, search for businesses near your location, and even make reservations or appointments directly through the app. Yelp also offers filters and sorting options, making it easy to find the best options based on your preferences. With its extensive database and reliable reviews, Yelp is a valuable app for exploring local favorites while abroad.

Zomato

Zomato is a popular app for discovering and ordering food in various cities worldwide. It offers a comprehensive database of restaurants, cafes, and bars, complete with menus, photos, reviews, and ratings. Zomato allows you to search for places based on your location, cuisine preferences, or specific dishes you are craving. The app also offers online ordering and delivery options in select areas, making it convenient to enjoy local flavors from the comfort of your accommodation. With its focus on food discoveries, Zomato is a go-to app for food lovers and culinary adventurers.

Like a Local

Like a Local is a unique app that provides insider tips and recommendations from locals in various cities worldwide. It offers curated lists of hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path attractions, and local experiences that are often missed by traditional guidebooks. Like a Local allows you to explore different destinations through the eyes of locals, offering authentic and memorable travel experiences. The app also provides detailed maps, directions, and offline access, allowing you to navigate through your chosen city with ease. With its emphasis on local knowledge and personalized recommendations, Like a Local is an invaluable app for discovering the hidden treasures of each destination you visit.

Flight and Hotel Booking Apps

Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a popular app for booking flights, hotels, and car rentals at the best prices. With Skyscanner, you can search and compare prices from various airlines, travel agencies, and hotel providers, ensuring that you find the most affordable options for your travel needs. The app also offers flexible search options, allowing you to adjust your preferences for dates, times, and cabin class. Skyscanner is a comprehensive tool for planning and booking your travel arrangements, offering convenience and peace of mind while saving you money.

Kayak

Kayak is another reputable app for booking flights, hotels, and rental cars. With Kayak, you can search and compare prices from multiple travel providers, ensuring that you secure the best deals for your travel plans. The app also offers a range of filters and sorting options, making it easy to find the most suitable options based on your preferences. Kayak allows you to track flights, set price alerts, and even book complete vacation packages. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive search capabilities, Kayak is a reliable app for stress-free travel bookings.

Expedia

Expedia is a well-known app that offers a range of travel services, including flights, hotels, rental cars, and even vacation packages. With Expedia, you can search and compare prices from various providers, ensuring that you find the most affordable options for your travel needs. The app also offers exclusive deals and discounts, allowing you to save money on your bookings. Expedia provides a seamless booking process, with the ability to manage your reservations and access customer support directly through the app. With its comprehensive offerings and reliable service, Expedia is a go-to app for hassle-free travel bookings.

Travelocity

Travelocity is an app that specializes in offering travel deals and discounts for flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. With Travelocity, you can search and compare prices from various providers, ensuring that you secure the best deals for your travel plans. The app also offers exclusive discounts and rewards for members, allowing you to save even more on your bookings. Travelocity provides a user-friendly interface and a seamless booking process, making it convenient to plan and book your travel arrangements. With its focus on affordability and value, Travelocity is a reliable app for budget-conscious travelers.

Hotels.com

Hotels.com is a popular app for booking hotels and accommodations at competitive prices. With Hotels.com, you can search and compare prices from a wide selection of hotels, ensuring that you find the best deals for your travel needs. The app offers detailed hotel listings, complete with photos, reviews, and information about amenities and services. Hotels.com also provides exclusive discounts and reward programs, allowing you to save money on your bookings. With its user-friendly interface and extensive network of hotels, Hotels.com is a trusted app for finding the perfect place to stay during your travels.

Weather Apps

The Weather Channel

The Weather Channel app is a comprehensive tool for staying up-to-date with weather conditions worldwide. With The Weather Channel, you can access detailed weather forecasts, including temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and more. The app also offers radar maps, severe weather alerts, and pollen forecasts, ensuring that you are well-prepared for any weather conditions. The Weather Channel provides accurate and reliable information, allowing you to plan your activities and pack accordingly during your travels.

AccuWeather

AccuWeather is another popular app for real-time weather forecasts and updates. With AccuWeather, you can access detailed weather information, including hourly and daily forecasts, radar maps, and severe weather alerts. The app offers customizable notifications, allowing you to receive weather updates for your chosen locations. AccuWeather also provides lifestyle forecasts, such as outdoor activity suggestions based on current weather conditions. With its user-friendly interface and accurate data, AccuWeather is a valuable app for staying informed about the weather while abroad.

Weather Underground

Weather Underground is a unique weather app that offers hyperlocal forecasts, providing detailed weather information for specific locations. With Weather Underground, you can access accurate and up-to-date forecasts, including temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and more. The app also offers interactive radar maps, satellite imagery, and severe weather alerts, ensuring that you have the most comprehensive weather information at your fingertips. Weather Underground is a reliable app for planning your outdoor activities and staying safe during your travels.

WeatherBug

WeatherBug is an app that offers real-time weather forecasts and updates from a network of weather stations worldwide. With WeatherBug, you can access accurate and localized weather information, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and more. The app also offers radar maps, satellite imagery, and detailed forecasts for the next several days. WeatherBug provides severe weather alerts, pollen forecasts, and even air quality information, ensuring that you are well-informed about the conditions around you. With its extensive network and reliable data, WeatherBug is a valuable app for staying ahead of the weather while traveling.

Storm

Storm is a weather app that specializes in providing detailed and interactive radar maps and severe weather alerts. With Storm, you can track rain, snow, lightning, and other weather conditions in real-time, ensuring that you stay safe and informed. The app also offers customizable notifications for severe weather alerts in your chosen locations. Storm provides detailed forecasts for the next several hours, allowing you to plan your activities accordingly. With its focus on radar maps and severe weather tracking, Storm is an essential app for travelers who want to stay ahead of changing weather conditions.

Packing and Planning Apps

PackPoint

PackPoint is a highly useful app for creating personalized packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, and planned activities. With PackPoint, you simply input your travel details, and the app generates a comprehensive packing list, taking into account the weather forecast and the type of trip you are taking. The app offers customizable options, allowing you to add or remove items as needed. PackPoint is a great tool for staying organized and ensuring that you have everything you need while traveling.

TripIt

TripIt is a popular app for organizing and managing your travel itineraries. With TripIt, you can consolidate all your travel plans, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and activities, into a single itinerary. The app allows you to forward your confirmation emails to a designated email address, and TripIt automatically builds your itinerary based on the information provided. TripIt also offers real-time flight alerts, interactive maps, and the ability to share your itinerary with family or friends. With its seamless integration and user-friendly interface, TripIt is a reliable companion for staying organized during your travels.

TripCase

TripCase is another app that helps you organize and manage your travel itineraries in one place. With TripCase, you can store and access your flight details, hotel reservations, car rentals, and more, ensuring that you have all your travel information at your fingertips. The app also offers live flight updates, allowing you to track changes in real-time and receive notifications about delays or gate changes. TripCase provides a user-friendly interface and seamless synchronization across multiple devices, ensuring that you stay organized and informed throughout your journey.

Trail Wallet

Trail Wallet is a convenient app for tracking your expenses and managing your travel budget. With Trail Wallet, you can input your expenses in various currencies, categorize them, and set daily spending limits to stay on track. The app provides visual representations of your spending, allowing you to monitor your budget in real-time. Trail Wallet also offers the ability to export your expense data for record-keeping or sharing purposes. With its intuitive interface and useful features, Trail Wallet is an ideal app for managing your finances and staying within budget while traveling.

Sygic Travel

Sygic Travel is a comprehensive travel planning app that allows you to create personalized itineraries and discover popular attractions and activities. With Sygic Travel, you can explore different destinations, browse through interactive maps, and read detailed descriptions of landmarks and points of interest. The app also offers the ability to add attractions to your personalized itinerary and download offline maps for easy navigation. Sygic Travel provides valuable information about opening hours, ticket prices, and user-generated reviews, ensuring that you make the most out of your travel experiences.

Communication Apps

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that offers free text and voice messaging, as well as video calls. With WhatsApp, you can easily stay in touch with family and friends back home, as well as connect with locals while abroad. The app utilizes internet connectivity, allowing you to send messages and make calls without incurring international charges. WhatsApp also offers features such as group chats, file-sharing, and end-to-end encryption for added privacy. With its widespread usage and user-friendly interface, WhatsApp is a go-to app for keeping in touch while traveling.

Viber

Viber is another widely-used messaging app that provides free text, voice, and video messaging services. With Viber, you can connect with your contacts and make calls using internet connectivity, ensuring that you stay connected without incurring additional charges. The app also offers features such as stickers, group chats, and even the ability to make international calls to non-Viber users at competitive rates. Viber is a reliable app for staying in touch with loved ones and making new connections across borders.

Skype

Skype is a renowned communication app that allows you to make free voice and video calls, as well as send messages. With Skype, you can connect with friends and family anywhere in the world, regardless of the device or platform they are using. The app offers features such as group calls, screen sharing, and even the ability to call mobile or landline numbers at affordable rates. Skype is a reliable app for staying connected during your travels, whether it’s for personal or business purposes.

Facebook Messenger

Facebook Messenger is an integrated messaging app that allows you to connect with your Facebook contacts. With Facebook Messenger, you can send messages, make free voice and video calls, and even share photos and videos. The app also offers features such as group chats, games, and the ability to send money to friends. Facebook Messenger keeps you connected with your social network while traveling, allowing you to stay in touch and share your travel experiences.

WeChat

WeChat is a widely-used messaging and social media app, particularly in China and other Asian countries. With WeChat, you can send messages, make voice and video calls, and even share photos and videos with your contacts. The app also offers features such as group chats, payment services, and even the ability to book taxis or order food. WeChat is a comprehensive app that allows you to stay connected and access a range of services while traveling in China or other parts of Asia.

Travel Guides Apps

Lonely Planet Guides

Lonely Planet Guides is a popular app that offers comprehensive travel guides for various destinations worldwide. With Lonely Planet Guides, you can access detailed information about attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more. The app allows you to download guides for offline use, ensuring that you have access to valuable information even without internet connectivity. Lonely Planet Guides offers insider tips, suggested itineraries, and customizable recommendations, making it a valuable resource for planning your travels and discovering hidden gems.

Triposo

Triposo is a versatile travel app that provides comprehensive travel guides for destinations around the world. With Triposo, you can access detailed information about attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more, all conveniently available offline. The app offers interactive maps, suggested itineraries, and even restaurant and hotel bookings. Triposo also provides personalized recommendations based on your preferences and travel history, ensuring that you have a unique and tailored travel experience.

Guides by Lonely Planet

Guides by Lonely Planet is another app that offers in-depth travel guides for various destinations worldwide. With Guides by Lonely Planet, you can access detailed information about attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more, all available offline. The app provides useful travel tips, suggested itineraries, and insider recommendations from expert authors, ensuring that you have a memorable and authentic travel experience. Guides by Lonely Planet is a reliable app for planning your adventures and discovering the best each destination has to offer.

Rough Guides

Rough Guides is a renowned travel app that offers comprehensive travel guides for destinations worldwide. With Rough Guides, you can access reliable and up-to-date information about attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more. The app allows you to download guides for offline use, ensuring that you have access to valuable information even without internet connectivity. Rough Guides offers detailed maps, suggested itineraries, and insider tips, all curated by expert authors. With its comprehensive coverage and user-friendly interface, Rough Guides is a trusted app for planning and navigating your travels.

Spotted by Locals

Spotted by Locals is a unique travel app that offers insider tips and recommendations from locals in various cities worldwide. With Spotted by Locals, you can explore different destinations through the eyes of locals, discovering hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions. The app provides detailed local recommendations, complete with practical information, photos, and insider tips. Spotted by Locals allows you to access all the recommendations offline, ensuring that you have authentic and memorable travel experiences. With its focus on local knowledge and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, Spotted by Locals is an invaluable app for truly immersing yourself in each destination you visit.

In conclusion, there is a wide range of travel apps available to enhance your travel experience abroad. Whether you need assistance with transportation, translation, currency conversion, accommodation, local recommendations, flight and hotel bookings, weather updates, packing and planning, communication, or travel guides, there is an app to suit your needs. These apps provide valuable tools and resources to help you navigate unfamiliar territories, stay connected, discover local favorites, and make the most out of your travels. With the right apps on your phone, you can confidently explore new destinations, connect with locals, and create unforgettable memories on your adventures abroad.