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The Best Travel Apps to Download Before Your Next Trip

The Best Travel Apps to Download Before Your Next Trip

Planning a trip has never been easier, thanks to the countless travel apps designed to streamline everything from booking accomodation to navigating foreign cities. For Kiwis venturing abroad, having the right apps on your smartphone can save time, reduce stress, and enhance your travel experience. Here’s a guide to the best travel apps to download before your next adventure.

1. Flight Tracking & Management

TripIt: Organise all your travel plans in one place. Simply forward your flight, hotel, and rental confirmations to TripIt, and it generates an easy-to-follow itinerary.

calendar with pinpoints

2. Navigation & Local Transport

Google Maps: An essential app for navigating unfamiliar cities. Google Maps offers detailed routes for driving, walking, cycling, and public transport. Save maps offline to avoid data charges.

Rome2Rio: Wondering how to get from A to B? Rome2Rio maps out every option, from buses and trains to flights and ferries, with estimated costs and travel times.

Uber or Grab: While Uber is widely used, Grab is the go-to ride-hailing app in Southeast Asia. Both apps offer transparent pricing and safe transport options.

google maps

3. Currency & Budget Management

XE Currency Converter: Stay on top of exchange rates and easily convert currencies on the go. The app works offline, making it perfect for remote destinations.

Wise (formerly TransferWise): Ideal for travellers, Wise offers an easy-to-use app and a versatile travel card that supports multiple currencies. You can load and spend without high fees, and the travel card provides contactless payments and withdrawals at ATMs worldwide, allowing you to manage your money like a local, wherever you go.

Revolut: A comprehensive travel card with an app that offers real-time exchange rates, no foreign transaction fees, and easy top-up options. Revolut also provides a physical card with contactless payments, allowing you to manage your money efficiently while traveling.

Splitwise: Travelling with friends? Use Splitwise to track shared expenses and ensure everyone pays their fair share.

couple discussing finances

4. Communication & Connectivity

WhatsApp: Whatsapp is widely used around the world, perfect for communicating with local people and businesses and keeping in touch with family and friends while abroad. WhatsApp offers free messaging, voice, and video calls over Wi-Fi.

Airalo: Buy and manage eSIMs for affordable data plans without needing a physical SIM card. Ideal for staying connected without incurring hefty roaming fees.

friends on facetime

5. Translation & Cultural Insights

Google Translate: Translate text, speech, or even images in over 100 languages. Download languages offline for uninterrupted access.

Duolingo: Learn basic phrases or brush up on a new language before your trip. The app gamifies learning, making it fun and engaging.

6. Dining & Local Recommendations

Yelp: Browse restaurant reviews and recommendations as well as shopping and entertainment.

Zomato: This app specialises in food reviews and recommendations, helping you find the best eats in major cities worldwide.

friends enjoying a meal together

7. Health & Safety

SafeTravel: Access emergency contact numbers and embassy details for any country. A handy tool for staying safe while exploring unfamiliar places.

PackPoint: This app creates a customised packing checklist based on your destination, weather, and planned activities.

person writing in a notebook

8. Unique Apps for Specific Destinations

Pocket Wi-Fi Rentals: In places like Japan, Korea and Singapore, renting a pocket Wi-Fi device ensures seamless internet access. Companies often have apps for easy booking and usage instructions. Keep in mind that a credit card is often required for rentals.

Citymapper: Excellent for navigating major cities like London, New York, and Tokyo. It offers detailed transport options and real-time updates.

the wifi symbol

9. Entertainment & Relaxation

Spotify or Audible: Long flights and layovers are more enjoyable with a curated playlist or an audiobook. Download content offline to save on data.

Netflix: Download your favourite shows and movies before boarding to make your journey more entertaining.

man listening to music through headphones at train station

Final Thoughts

The right travel apps can make all the difference in how smooth and enjoyable your trip is. Before you head off, spend some time downloading and familiarising yourself with these tools. Whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia or exploring the streets of Paris, these apps ensure you stay organised, connected, and stress-free.

Ready to plan your next trip? Visit Mix & Match for unbeatable deals. Safe travels!

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