Technology and travel go hand in hand, especially when you take advantage of the free apps that help you book flights, find great deals or help you navigate easily. Here’s a list of the 11 best free travel apps that we personally use and are worth the download for every type of traveler. It will help you travel safer, easier and cheaper. Enjoy!
Read also: best websites to find the cheapest flights
Maps.me
By far our favorite offline map app! It covers all countries and cities of the world on one map and doesn’t require any internet connection. You simply download a map of any location in the world when using wifi and then you’re ready to go! The app is fully loaded with features, like creating routes anywhere on the map, exploring points-of-interest, pin your favorite places on the map, access current traffic situations, restaurant and shop reviews, walking directions, parking spots… all without any internet requirement. Our ultimate travel guide to never get lost again!
iOS and Android – download maps.me here
Rome2Rio
If you need to figure out how to get from A to B (even on different continents), Rome2Rio is the thing! You can enter any address, town, or city as your destination and the app will instantly display flight, train, bus, ferry and driving options with estimated travel times and fares. You can also view previous searches offline when you don’t have an internet connection. A super helpful app!
iOS and Android – download Rome2rio here
Skyscanner
Our favorite app whenever we want to look up or book flights. Using the search function, Skyscanner allows you to enter a destination of “everywhere,” so you can easily browse the cheapest destinations from your departure city. You can also set price alerts for saved routes, check out great prices to destinations around the world, or narrow your search results by duration, the number of stops, airline, travel class, or departure and arrival times. It makes traveling so much easier!
iOS and Android – download Skyscanner here
Booking.com
The most top-rated app in travel! With just one tap you can find the best rates hotels nearby. It gives you the flexibility to stop and explore along the way. To find a place to stay at your next stop, or adding a night or two if you can’t bear to leave, or cancel a booking if plans change. What we love the most about Booking.com is the pay later feature and flexible cancellation policy available on many of the properties.
iOS and Android – download Booking.com here
Hostelworld
The ultimate travel app for backpackers! Whether you’re planning a long weekend in Europe or backpacking through Southeast Asia, this easy-to-use travel app offers you the biggest choice of accommodation at the best prices. Find party hostels in some of the most popular destinations or choose a private room in one of Europe’s many boutiques and luxury hostels. The flexible booking options and last-minute booking capability let you stay as flexible as your travel plans.
iOs and Android – download Hostelworld here
Airbnb
This one is a no-brainer. The perfect app to book vacation home rentals, packed with amazing spots all around the world. From cottages in France to New York City condos. You can book private rooms, share homes with a host, or list your own space. The app lets you save your favorite places and then connect with friends so they can see what you’ve saved/recommended. Soon you’ve booked your accommodation, you can message your host and get directions to your home. Easy-peasy!
use this link to get a $45 discount on your first booking on Airbnb.
iOs and Android – download Airbnb here
XE Currency
Need to calculate currencies on-the-go? With the XE Currency App, you can access live exchange rates, view historical charts, and calculate prices on your smartphone or tablet. The app is so handy to use on the go while you’re in the shop buying something and wanna quickly check how much you’re paying in your own currency. We love it!
iOs and Android – download XE Currency here
GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide is the perfect website or app if you want to get as much as possible out of your vacation. Book a local guide or find the best things to do wherever you’re going.
Android – download GetYourGuide here
iOs – download GetYourGuide here
Spotify
Not traditionally a travel app, Spotify is a lifesaver on any travel day! If you subscribe to the service, you have the option to download customized playlists to your phone. When you have WiFi, create your playlist and download it to your device. Now you have tons of music to enjoy while driving, flying, or waiting around for public transportation.
iOs and Android – download Spotify here
Grab
We love Grab. This app is Southeast Asia’s #1 taxi app, food delivery service, and cashless payment solution all in one. In a nutshell, the Grab app lets you easily order a taxi, sometimes nearly half the price of a regular taxi. It will calculate or estimates the price, so there’s no need for negotiating with the driver. The driver will know exactly where you want to go to and you can see ratings and reviews which makes it more transparent and safe. Must have!
iOs and Android – download Grab here
Hotels.com
Last but not least: the Hotels.com app. The app is a simple, fast, and secure way to discover and book accommodations like the Booking.com app. The difference? By using the app, you’ll have instant access to their Secret Prices which can save up to 40% discounts. The Secret Prices are specially created for people who have subscribed to their emails, downloaded their app, or those who have joined their Rewards program. Worth comparing right? And what we like the most is that you can save up free nights. For every 10 nights you book, you get 1 reward night for free. You’re welcome!
iOs and Android – download Hotels.com here