Smartphones have become a vital tool for travelers, according to TripAdvisor, as they state most travelers now use their mobile device to plan and book their trips. The study refers to these vacationers as ‘connected travelers’. There are many apps and mobile-responsive websites that are specifically made to assist vacationers and adventure-seekers with all their trip needs. And this heightened dependency on mobile devices isn’t at all surprising, seeing as mobile consumption of content has now surpassed other computing devices, such as desktop PCs. In fact, 49% of the overall tech data consumed on a daily basis comes from mobile devices, as reported by the award-winning mobile software developer Gaming Realms, that created popular portal, Spin Genie. To avoid over installing unnecessary apps, we have highlighted four travel apps that you should consider downloading before booking or planning your next holiday. Ready?

1. Kayak

It acts as a one-stop shop for travellers, where they can search for the best deals for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Kayak also notifies you of any new discounts you may want to purchase. This application is very helpful to those who are still planning new trip abroad. And, if you are already waiting for your flight, Kayak comes with its own flight tracker and itinerary management system that you can visit quickly to stay on track. The developer recently announced that they now offer Apple Watch app support on their iOS app. Get Kayak.

2. TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor can work hand in hand with your Kayak app, as it offers a myriad of information about a host of destinations, chosen accommodation and much more. All information is based on other traveller’s experiences, which can give you great insights about certain places, especially if you are to visit a foreign territory you’ve never been to before. The app also comes with a downloadable city guide that you can access even without an internet connection. Get TripAdvisor.

3. VerbalizeIt

There are loads of different translation apps that promise to provide you assistance in case someone talks to you in their local tongue. But, many of those are disappointing with limited information to aid you in mastering different languages. VerbalizeIt can help you in translating long sentences easily, and its accuracy remains a top priority for its developers to connect you to a real live translator. It comes with more than 60 languages and even comes with document translation and audio transcription. Get VerbalizeIt.

4. Wi-Fi Finder

Travelling without internet connection is like a day without coffee – it can be unlivable. Most maps and GPS services only work using Wi-Fi and a mobile data connection. If you want to locate the nearest public and free Wi-Fi in your current location, then the Wi-Fi Finder is your best option. It comes with more than 650,000 locations in 144 countries worldwide. The developer gives the most accurate and up-to-date information from JiWire. Get Wi-Fi Finder. XX

What’s your favourite travel application so far? If you have any experience using the featured apps above, then feel free to leave us a comment on how you think they perform.

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