Having travelled all over the world over decades, I have found some apps that I think are a must have for all travellers. All have a free plan or are totally free!
Here are some of the best which I will keep updated:
- Kayak
Kayak is one of the best apps for managing your trips and finding new trips to go on as you can also compare flight, hotel and car hire prices too. It is definitely one of the best out there and FREE!
This is by far my most favourite trip management software. No fees unlike many of the competitors out there either!
Tripit is one of the biggest competitors but I think Kayak is much better vs the free plan of Tripit. Try it out yourself. - Tripadvisor
This is by far the best place to get information on hotels and things to do while on vacation. Here, others can leave reviews and post photos so you can get a real idea of a place before you go. This is a must have for me. - Yelp
Yelp is very similar to Tripadvisor, but it is mainly for restaurant reviews and you can sometimes find more reviews on here for restaurants than Tripadvisor as it has always been aimed at food establishments. I like to use this alongside Tripadvisor. - XE Currency Convertor
XE is definitely one of the best sites for finding out currency rates and converting different currencies into your home currency. Free app and works well. Up to date with correct information always. - Google Maps
I try to avoid Google products mostly as I am not a fan due to the fact they love to gather your data, track you and also the fact they kill so many products. There is even a site that tracks all the ones they have cancelled. They have even bought other companies and then cancelled their products quickly afterwards.
Google Maps however, is still one of the best map apps out there and is one of the most up to date. Plus you have streetview and Google Earth too. - Microsoft Translator
This is brilliant for translating words or conversations while on vacation. There is the website and app for your phone. This is my preferred over Google after trying both out extensively. It is usually accurate, is quick to use and reliable.
It has offline mode too so you can save money in data while translating on your trip. - Flightware
Flightaware lets you track your fights and get notifications about delays and cancellations. Often updated before signs in airports! This is a must have for me. Track all your flights and keep updated. - Skyscanner
This is a must have for everyone. You can check flight, hotel and car prices and find the best ones for you! Totally free. - Skype
There are various video apps, but Skype is still one of the originals and lets you call people via Skype AND you can use it as a regular phone too if you add credit. Something you can’t do on Zoom or Teams. Keep in touch with loved ones while on vacation or chat to friends and family too! - GasBuddy
If you are going to the USA, GasBuddy will help you find the cheapest gas around. Prices vary so worth getting to save money. - AccessAble
This is brilliant if you are disabled and go out in the UK. It lists accessibility in venues all over the UK. A must have if you are physically disabled and have issues getting about or are in a wheelchair.