There's no denying that there are many moving parts that can be hard to keep track of when you're traveling internationally. Whether its flights, itineraries, food, money, health or anything else, smartphone apps can help you stay organized and remove the extra stress so you can focus on the fun part!
Here are 12 of the best international travel apps that every traveler should have before heading off to a new country.
1. Hopper
|Flights|
Listen, we’re all aware that finding and booking international flights feels like a guessing game as you try to find the cheapest flight on the Internet.
The Hopper app does the labor of cross-referencing flight websites for you, and will alert you when prices drop or are expected to drop for particular flight routes. Go ahead - save yourself the stress and make booking your flight waaay easier.
2. Skyscanner
|Flights|
Skyscanner is a travel aggregator that allows users to find the best prices on flights, hotels, and car bookings around the world. The site (and app) is used by more than 100 million individuals each month. Travelers have the ability to compare prices from different services and providers. The search engine is particularly well-liked for it's ease of use and functionality.
3. My TSA
|Airports|
With flight delays, holidays, security checks and all, getting to your international flight alone can seem like an overwhelming process. But download the My TSA app and get updates on any delays, weather conditions, foot traffic at popular airports, and even what you can and can’t bring on your flight. An app to help you stay ahead of the game!
|Language / Communication|
Even if you’re not traveling, this is a pretty cool app to keep in your smartphone. The Google Translate app will translate text, photos, handwriting and speech in real time, meaning you can have a conversation with someone who speaks another language and the app will do all the translating for you. Though the app requires the Internet, there are some languages that can be downloaded to function offline.
5. Loungebuddy
|Airports|
Say goodbye to uncomfortable airport waits, and hello to loungy lounges! Find and book airport lounges at your destination airports if you anticipate having to wait around a bit. Chill, sleep, eat, and do whatever you need to in a more comfortable airport setting.
6. Packpoint
|Packing|
We know that one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of preparing for an international trip is deciding on what to pack. So many options, but actually so few things you should probably be bringing! Those bright yellow pants you’ve never worn? You can probably leave those behind. But just in case, here’s an app to confirm, and which helps create a custom packing list based on your destination, gender, the season, weather forecasts, trip duration, and the nature of your trip. Happy packing!
7. Calm
|Health|
An app that helps you forget there’s turbulence on your plane? Sign us up! The Calm app is a meditation app that has become super popular across the globe. It helps guide users through exercises that reduce stress and anxiety and also offers soothing storytelling and music - usually told in interestingly accented voices that are sort of fun to listen to.
8. Netflix
|Entertainment|
Sometimes, airplanes just don’t offer free entertainment. And sometimes they don’t even have paid entertainment options. So do yourself a favor and download a streaming app (- and download shows beforehand!), so that you can have your own entertainment no matter what. You can thank us later! ;)
9. Tricount
|Money / Finances|
Listen, we get nervous too when we have to split the bill with our friends. No one wants to pull out a calculator, much less think about how to split the taxes and tip! The Tricount app will organize and calculate all of your group expenses - from split meals, to several transactions throughout your trip. This app is something you’ll definitely want to invest in if you’re traveling with other people.
10. Whatsapp
|Communication|
This messaging app is perfect for anyone who is traveling internationally. It saves you from having to purchase a chip or phone plan at your destination. Because the app uses the Internet, you can send messages, make calls, and even jump on video calls with anyone who downloads the free app as well. The ease of use has long made this one of our picks for best international travel app.s
11. Happy Cow
|Food / Health|
We know many travelers want to maintain their vegetarian and vegan food diets while traveling the world, and this app helps make that possible. The Happy Cow app locates places near you that offer vegan or vegetarian food options, natural food stores, and even provides a host of recipes in more than 180 countries!
12. TripWhistle
|Safety|
Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group of friends, safety is always key! The TripWhistle app allows you to locate the right local emergency numbers, including police, fire and ambulances. The app claims that users can “provide critical information to emergency respondents with in-app access to your street address and GPS coordinates.” Super important!
🌎 Ready to start traveling the world? Check out FTLO's upcoming group trips for young professionals to amazing destinations around the world!