I have compiled the ultimate list of 20 must-have free apps for international travel. Don’t forget to download these for your next getaway! Whether you need an app for packing, texting, currency conversion, finding a hotel room, navigating to your next location, translations, or photo storage —these apps will surely be your best friend!
Texting/Calls
1. WhatsApp
– Free mobile messenger and calling app that connects to the Internet. So, if you opted to forgo the international data plan – this is a great alternative!
– Download here
Booking
2. TripIt
–Send your confirmation emails to the app and it will create a master itinerary for you including confirmation numbers, dates, times, weather, and maps. Great way to keep everything in one place!
–Access when offline
–Download here
3. TripAdvisor
–Provides hotel and restaurant reviews as well as information on local activities. Super helpful when looking for last minute things to eat and do!
4. Momondo
–A search engine that compares flights, hotels, and car rentals to find you the cheapest, quickest, and best search results.
–Download here
5. Google Trips
–Who doesn’t love Google?! This neat little platform will organize all your travel reservations/information and even give suggestions on things to do in the area. They have pre-made travel itineraries too!
–Offers offline access!
–Download here
Accommodations
6. HotelTonight
–Need last minute hotel accommodations? This app will find them for you and at a discounted rate!
7. HostelWorld
–Will help you find hostels in your area across 170 countries! Hostels are great for keeping your travels budget-friendly.
–Download here
8. Couchsurfing
–Looking for a different way to stay in new places? You can arrange homestays with this app and meet local people offering a place to stay. This can also be used to connect with members in the traveling community!
9. Airbnb
–I have used this app many times as an alternative to a hotel! You can either rent a room or the entire house in the location you are traveling to. The prices are competitive with hotels and I have found Airbnbs to actual be the cheaper option.
–Download here
10. Rome2Rio
–This service will tell you how to navigate your destination and suggest bookings while estimating prices and travel time.
–Offers offline access!
Packing
11. PackPoint
–A packing list that is designed to the travelers needs and destination. A great tool to help travelers pack and prepare for that big trip!
Currency / Budgeting
12. XE Currency
–Provides you with the current exchange rate of the country you are traveling in. This app is helpful so you can gage the value of what you are purchasing.
13. Trail Wallet
–Excellent for budgeting and helps you track your expenses while you travel.
–Download here
Maps / Transportation
14. Maps.me
–Detailed offline maps app! No data, no problem – super convenient if you are trying to get from point A to point B. This app gives Google Maps a run for their money!
–Offers offline access!
–Download here
15. Here
–Here has complete transportation options and navigation to provide you with detailed routes and live updates. Another great addition/alternative to GoogleMaps!
–Offers offline access!
–Download here
16. GoEuro
–More specifically for Europe travel, this will help you buy bus and train transportation a little more easily.
–Download here
17. Google Maps
–I have personally used this abroad to help me navigate public transportation solo! This was my go-to app to get around and this is a must-have!
Translate
18. Google Translate
–Does exactly what it says—translate! Handy when in foreign countries, especially if the only words you know are hi and goodbye (I am guilty of this!).
19. Duolingo
–Need help actually learning the language? This app will aide with that! They have games that make learning interactive and fun. Great way to pass time flying!
Photos
20. Google Photos
–If you are taking photos with just your smartphone you NEED this app! When you take a photo, the app will automatically back up your photo UNLIMITEDLY. That’s a too good a deal to pass up!
–Download here
What’s your favorite travel app? I am always searching for helpful ones to add to my list 🙂
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Mary says
Thanks for the apps. I really want to try the packing app. Will let you know how it works. We leave on the coming Monday for three weeks in Germany and France.
Andrea says
Travel Spend (red icon) is a great travel budget app. (I use on Android)