We’ve come a long way since the days of phrasebooks, travelers’ checks, and payphones. For those who are young enough to just now start traveling, you may have not even seen any of these things. They were the old ways of travel. But now we advance to the future in a time that technology has helped us in tremendous ways. And downloadable applications to your phone are a big part of that. Read on for some useful travel apps worth downloading.
AllTrails
AllTrails is a handy app to have if you’re into hiking. The app includes a detailed collection of trail maps from around the world. Turn on your GPS to help with tracking while you’re on the trail. An app not only useful in Hawaii with the many trails we have here, but also many other places as you continue your travel adventures.
Turo
Looking for an affordable car to rent? Turo is like the “Airbnb” for cars. Private individuals from around the world rent out their personal cars to travelers looking for something a bit more unique than the traditional rental car. Turo is leading the way in the car sharing marketplace. And you can have the chance to share in this experience too by downloading the Turo app.
Airbnb
And while we’re on the subject of the sharing economy, let’s not forget about Airbnb themselves. You can rent a room in someones home, a small apartment, or even an entire house if you want. Rent for a day, a week, a month, or even longer. Download the Airbnb app if you’re looking for a few more accommodation options.
Uber & Lyft
Another sharing experience we can look at is ridesharing. Two of the top companies here are Uber and Lyft. More and more people are steering away from traditional cabs and booking a ride on their phone through apps like Uber and Lyft. Most of the time these rides end up being cheaper than cabs. And you can also pay electronically by linking a credit card to the app. No more carrying cash around and monitoring a meter to make sure you don’t go over.
Google Translate
Traveling in a foreign country? Be sure you have the Google Translate app on your phone. It can be a lifesaver where you don’t know the local language. Type it or speak it, either one. And it will translate it to the language of your choice.
Google Maps
Another great feature of Google is the Google Maps app. It will help you with direction and time it takes. You can even choose options for walking, driving, or public transport. Use Google Maps to find restaurants and other local places around your area. Download the maps to make them available offline too so you’re not constantly using your data connection.
XE Currency
The XE app might be helpful when you’re dealing with foreign currency. Not sure if you’re paying too much in your local currency? You don’t want to get ripped off or taken for granted. Plug the costs into the XE app to find the current conversion rates. All rates are up to the minute, so you’re never dealing with old information.
DaBus
Here’s an app that’s more specific to Hawaii. DaBus is the app that connects local riders with the bus system of Oahu. It gives you up to the minute times for arrivals. Enter your bus stop number to see its schedule. And follow your route along the way to find out which stop you need to get off at. Download DaBus so you never get lost on the island.
Which Apps do you use?
Do you have any useful apps you’d like to share? Anything we have not listed? Let us know in the comments what has worked for you. Share some of the apps that have helped you in your travel adventures. After all, travel is all about the sharing.
Image By: Travel and Leisure
