6 apps to make traveling easier
Take the pain out of getting from A to B with this collection of downloads
Taking a trip can be a logistical headache, so download our top six apps to make organizing your next journey a (sea) breeze.
The first step is, of course, booking a flight. Load up Kayak (Free, iPhone/iPad) and it couldn’t be simpler to track down the best deal. Input your original and destination airports, plus dates, and the app will do the research for you. As well as checking out the best prices, you can filter by myriad options such as stops, layover lengths, and aircraft – and even see at a glance which flights offer amenities such as Wi-Fi. Found what you’re looking for? One more tap will take you through to the booking site. Easy.
After a lengthy flight, the last thing anyone wants is an even lengthier wait in the customs line. With Mobile Passport (Free, iPhone/iPad), you can cut that right down. Whether arriving in the US via plane or cruise ship, this invaluable, officially authorized app stores your passport details, which can then be submitted at 21 airports and ports to waltz you through a special line.
To save the hassle of sifting through email folders to dig out bookings, load up TripCase (Free with IAP, iPhone/iPad). Once you’ve made an account, forward any confirmation emails relating to your trip, and they’ll show in the app. You can keep track of multiple vacations, or merge them into one. It’s a convenient means of keeping transport and hotel details handy, along with automatically added contact details and flight tracker.
Once you’ve reached your destination, CityMapper (Free, iPhone) is your buddy. Essentially Google Maps on steroids, it enables you to plan routes for nearly every transportation type in cities all around the world – as well as how many snacks you could burn off by using the more active methods. It also integrates support for Uber, though not other ride-sharing services, sadly.
Sure you’ve got everything? This is where PackPoint (Free with IAP, iPhone) comes in. Input your destination, the dates and whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure. You can then choose the activities you’ll be partaking in (meals, outdoor activities, sightseeing, museums, and so on), and the app will use these plus a weather forecast to supply you with a list of essentials to pack. Sadly, it won’t make sure you’re under the luggage weight limits – you’re on your own there.
And how best to spend your meticulously organized trip? Ask
Trip Plans-TripHobo (Free with IAP, iPhone). Supply it with your travel dates and destinations, and then choose whether to add in attractions and create your own itinerary, or have one sketched out for you. If you’re pushed for time with a lot to see, this virtual tour guide is a great helper. Now, where’s the app to magic up the funds for our next world trip?