With a smartphone in your hand, you are ready to take on the world. Joking aside, nowadays there is an app for virtually any situation you might encounter, or as a useful tool in your arsenal. We have made a humble list of the best apps you can use when you are traveling. We are not listing Google Maps, because, frankly, that’s a given.
Airbnb
This is the Uber of accommodation. Basically, you connect with anyone with space to rent in all shapes and sizes (and we do mean all). The app covers more than 190 countries, and you can find your perfect place to stay based on the proximity of shops and banks, part of the city, or a number of other criteria you might have. All in all, a decent app that will get you there.
SitOrSquat
The name may be somewhat off-putting, but for backpackers, and people who like to take long walks in unknown urban areas, this app is a must. SitOrSquat lets you know whether a public bathroom is clean and safe, or not, hence the name. We are not 100% sure of the availability in all locations, but it sounds like a good idea, especially when you really have to go.
Packpoint
If you are like me, and have a hard time remembering where you’ve put the list of the things you are supposed to pack, then this app is for you. It lets you select the activities you will enjoy on your trip, regardless of whether it is a business trip or a vacation. Next, it will give out some advice as to what you should pack for each activity. It’s like having a parent or spouse walking behind you and double-checking whether you packed the tent, the medicine, and the passports. A must have for people who need help with organizing.
XE Currency
This app is invaluable for people who want to make sure they are not scammed while exchanging money. At the swipe of your finger, you can convert your dollars into euros, or yen. It is great, since you don’t need to stay connected online all the time. It will simply store the latest exchange rate available, so that you may still rely on it for a little while and have a basic idea of what you might expect in terms of exchange before you reconnect and the app updates, which it does frequently.
DB Navigator
While this app works only in Germany and a few places in Europe, it is a promising concept. The app allows you to book train tickets, and it can be used to help you plan out your route, along with all of the info regarding when to change trains and buses, as well as when and where they are supposed to arrive. Missed your train? Don’t worry, the app will recalculate your route and send you on your way.
Citymapper
This is DB Navigator on steroids. It’s free, available for android and iOS, and it covers cities in US, Canada, Latin America and Europe. Like DB Navigator, it also gives you step-by-step instructions on how to reach a place, even when you need to combine different modes of transportation. You will even get alerts if there is an emergency and you need to reorganize your route. It is nothing short of absolutely necessary.