What is the one thing that has transformed the way we travel? The answer is of course the smartphone.
As the International Business Times UK points out, the invention of these devices sparked the creation of all sorts of useful and reliable apps, making us feel more comfortable to do less planning at home in favour of being more spontaneous once we get to our destination.
Before the smartphone era, most of us would sit in front of our computers planning our trip, agonising over every detail of our itinerary. Smartphones have changed all that. Now, it makes sense to travel the world with your smartphone. However, before you start using the internet for your travel plans, you need to understand the costs of international data roaming. In almost all cases, you will be better off using a mobile broadband package instead of relying on your usual network provider. For example, you can order a SIM card from the Mobi-Data website which will give you 100MB of complementary data. The SIM card is free, and allows you access to the internet in 40 countries at low rates.
With the help of our apps, we can find local restaurants that are not in the guidebooks, work out the cost of a local purchase in our own currency and find points of interest wherever we are. The list of how apps can help is endless. So what are the best apps that you must have for your next holiday?
For cheap flight tickets
Skyscanner is a popular flight comparison website where you can find the cheapest flights to your destination. Now you can use its app to do the same.
For finding points of interest
AroundMe establishes where you are and shows you the nearest points of interest, including bars, restaurants, cafes and much more. It’s very handy if you don’t know where you’re going and want to explore! AroundMe is easy to use and gives you a lot of information.
For storing important information
TripIt is an all-in-one travel organiser that puts information like your flights, accommodation and car reservation into an itinerary that you can keep on your smartphone.
For tracking flights
FlightTrack allows travellers to find out about the status of their flights before journeying to the airport. It is also great if you are awaiting the arrival of loved ones.
For weather predictions
WeatherPro is particularly important if outdoor activities form an important part of your travels.
For working out the time
Perfect World Clock will make sure you are always clear of what time it is, whatever city you are in.
For emergency phone numbers
TravelSafe Pro will give you emergency phone numbers for your destination.
For dealing with jetlag
JetLag Genie helps you to gradually change your sleep routine ahead of your trip. All you need to do is input your travel dates, normal sleep habits and destination.
For currency exchange
XE Currency will allow you to do exchange conversions across countless currencies.
For a travel scrapbook
Trip Journal will create maps of where you have been and tag them with pictures as well as any notes you write.
With a low cost data package and all your apps loaded onto your phone, you are now ready for an adventure abroad.
