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Okay, so “change your life” may be a tad dramatic but these apps are incredibly useful for travelers. Over the years, I have come to rely on my iPhone for maps, trackers, information, calendars, photos, and communication.
It appears my device has transformed into a personal concierge. Back when I first acquired an iPhone, I thought it was merely an expensive gadget, yet it has revolutionized how we utilize mobile devices.
Below, I will share some of the must-have apps I frequently use while traveling, and others I wish I had discovered earlier.
1.) Offline City Maps
Have you ever landed in a city and struggled to understand how to reach your hotel? You grab your device, scramble for internet access, and then realize your data roaming is on, leading to exorbitant charges.
To avoid excessive roaming fees, turn off “data-roaming” in your settings to restrict connectivity to WiFi only. Next, locate a free WiFi spot—most airports provide complimentary access for a limited time, just long enough to download a needed app.
Search your App Store for “city name offline map.” For example, if you’re in London, type “London offline map.” A fantastic offline map app I recommend is Maps.Me—it’s user-friendly and ideal for navigating unfamiliar cities, even on your Apple Watch!
2.) Speak with ease in any language
While I always attempt to learn a few phrases in the local language before traveling, it’s often insufficient. Strangely, the most peculiar sentences stick with me, like; “où est le jambon” (where is the ham) and “Je veux manger du gâteau” (I want to eat cake).
A gamified app I found is SayHi Translate. This app supports multiple languages and can listen to conversations, translating them in real time.
3.) Metres, Kilometres, Pounds or Grams?
One often faces difficulties in distinguishing weight, distance, currency, and other measurements while traveling. A well-designed app named “Amount” serves as an excellent unit conversion tool, encompassing over 700 units across various categories. This app even allows you to keep a personalized list of conversion categories, making it vital when you’re pressed for time.
4.) Cloud storage
Cloud storage has gained immense popularity recently, allowing us to store everything from music to photos and tickets. If you’re like me, you often wonder about the mysterious “cloud” where your data resides. For a practical solution, Dropbox offers an intuitive app for both iPhone and Android users, allowing you to upload, manage, and retrieve files worldwide.
This is especially useful for those with limited phone storage, giving you the flexibility to access specific documents—like boarding passes—when necessary.
5.) Stay fit with a judgemental coach
During travels, I often find excuses to skip workouts or indulge in extra treats. To combat this, I discovered an engaging motivator that keeps me accountable in my fitness routine.
The app “Carrot” adapts to your progress, offering sassy encouragement as you meet your goals. This entertaining approach ensures you stay on track with your workout regime. Plus, the app is optimized for Apple Watch users!
