Attention Travelers: Do not book another international flight until you've downloaded these 8 apps! Seriously! 😳
What’s up Lost Travelers!
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably already booked a flight, not knowing too much about where you’re going. All you know is it’s time to FREAKING GOOO… and I AM ALL FOR THAT! But, before you step one little toe out that doe, let me put you on to some international game! The last thing you want is to be the Traveler that lands in a new country and get lost in the sauce.
So, because I’m your girl, and I want you to be safe and have the best time ever, I have put together a list of the top 8 apps that every traveler should have! These apps are going to provide everything from flight deals and messaging to communicating with locals and getting around in the best way possible.
Most of these apps are available for mobile and desktop just in case you have one without the other. 😅 So… let’s jump into it!
1. Google Translate
Google Translate is a lifesaver and a must-have app for every traveler. If you’re not fluent in any language besides your native tongue, you’re going to want to download this app.
Google Translate allows you to translate text, handwriting, photos, and speech in over 100 different languages.
Google Translate For Desktop: https://translate.google.com/
Google Translate For iOS:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-translate/id414706506
Google Translate for Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.translate&hl=en&gl=US
2. Google Maps
All maps are not created equal! Lol, the standard Maps app that comes with your cell phone will probably not work in other countries. You can test this theory the hard way, or just take my word for it! 😬
Google Maps is going to be one of the best options for you to get accurate routes, whether you’re driving, walking, or taking public transits while traveling abroad.
Google Maps For Desktop: https://www.google.com/maps
Google Maps For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/google-maps/id585027354
Google Maps For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.maps&hl=en&gl=US
(Pro Tip: Before you leave your accommodations, make sure you download your route for offline use. I would also suggest you download Waze as a back up.)
3. Currency Converter
When you travel to a new country, the locals know you ain’t from there and they will try you and your pockets! So before you agree to pay for anything, it’s important to know how much things are really costing you.
The Currency Converter app will show you live exchange rates for over 180 countries.
Currency Converter For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-currency-converter-rates/id549019596
Currency Converter For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.digitalchemy.currencyconverter
4. Smart Traveler App
For an extra safety precaution, it is always recommended that you register your entire trip with your embassy in whatever country you’re traveling to.
The Smart Traveler app was designed by the U.S. State Department to assist U.S. citizens and other nationals while traveling abroad. Once inside the app, you can register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which allows you to enter your travel information so that the Department of State, via embassies and consulates, can better assist you in case of an emergency.
Smart Traveler For Desktop: https://step.state.gov/STEPMobile/default.html
Smart Traveler For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/smart-traveler/id442693988
Smart Traveler For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.state.apps.smarttraveler&hl=en&gl=US
5. Skyscanner
Skyscanner is a search engine that helps you find and book international flights easily and quickly.
If you don’t know exactly where you want to travel, I would suggest that you plug in your current location and then select the option that says “Everywhere” in the box that asks you where you want to go. It will then give you a list of travel destinations from all over the world with the cheapest rates. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with these options!
Skyscanner For Desktop: https://www.espanol.skyscanner.com/?previousCultureSource=COOKIE&redirectedFrom=www.skyscanner.com
Skyscanner For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/skyscanner-travel-deals/id415458524
Skyscanner For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=net.skyscanner.android.main&hl=en&gl=US
6. Rome2Rio
Before leaving for your trip, it’s best to map out your journey.
Rome2Rio is a great app that will help you find the best way to get to your destination once you arrive in a new country. It will give you options for the bus, train, ferry, and ride-shares.
Rome2Rio For Desktop: https://www.rome2rio.com/
Rome2Rio For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/rome2rio-trip-planner/id569793256
Rome2Rio For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.rome2rio.www.rome2rio&hl=en&gl=US
7. WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a free messaging and video calling app used in over 180 countries.
In order to communicate with most businesses and locals while traveling, you’re going to want to have this downloaded. It also will save you from running up your cell phone bill making those international calls for $.25/min to anyone back home.
WhatsApp For Desktop: https://www.whatsapp.com/
WhatsApp For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/whatsapp-messenger/id310633997
WhatsApp For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.whatsapp&hl=en&gl=US
8. Duolingo
If you’re traveling to a foreign country that speaks a different language, I would suggest you learn some basic phrases that will help you communicate with the locals.
Duolingo is a free app where you can learn over 30+ languages with short interactive lessons. You can move at your own pace and revisit the information whenever you need to.
DuoLingo For Desktop: https://www.duolingo.com/
DuoLingo For iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/duolingo-language-lessons/id570060128
DuoLingo For Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.duolingo&hl=en&gl=US
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