Travel planning has become much easier with the advent of travel planner apps. No more phone calls to dozens of airlines, hotels, or car rentals seeking the best prices. Instead, great planning is as simple as a few clicks. Plus, honest reviews from people who have been there help validate what the apps suggest.
Whether you’re planning your travel itinerary, booking rental cars, flights, and hotels, or looking for great travel deals, it’s likely that the app store has it covered. How to choose? We've rounded up the best travel apps and websites to make your next trip virtually smoother than a touchscreen swipe––because in the digital age, the world really is at your fingertips.
Apps for Planning and Booking
Your budget sets the tone for the trip, from choosing a destination to planning activities when you arrive. The best travel websites and apps keep you on track and offer options that fit your style.
Hopper App – Book your flight at the right time. By tracking and analyzing prices, they can accurately predict whether you should book now or wait for the best price.
Google Flights – Explore potential trips. Simply set your departure city, click on the map, choose dates, and the map shows the cost to get to different destinations.
Skyscanner App – For when you want the touch of a travel agent without an actual agent. Unlimited destinations, flexible dates, and multi-city trips make this trip planner app one of the most popular.
Related: Tips on how to best budget for your trip.
Apps for Navigation (at destination)
Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you need to know where things are and how to get there. These apps help you in real time.
AllTrails – Want to explore the natural world while you travel? The AllTrails app helps you plan, live, and share your outdoor adventures.
GasBuddy – Planning a road trip? Compare prices to get the best deal on filling up the gas tank.
Google Maps – Need road maps, navigation–including walking directions, and help finding points of interest? Google Maps has it, plus reviews of everything from restaurants and stores to museums and plenty more.
Waze – Driving in another country? Waze works great inside the U.S., but it is notably loved by international travelers as well. This social navigation tool relies on crowdsourced data to provide real-time traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions.
Apps for Communication
Today’s tech simplifies communication, from translating languages to placing calls, which is especially important if you don’t have an eSIM for traveling abroad.
Google Translate – With 249 languages supported, Google Translate is like having a personal translator in your pocket. Download the language beforehand to use it offline.
WhatsdApp – Place calls and send texts fast and for free. WhatsApp works wherever you can get an internet connection.
Traveling internationally? Do it right with these tips for traveling abroad.
Apps for Currency
Using a credit card automatically converts currencies, using the exchange rate on the day of the purchase. Currency apps help you understand prices as you shop.
Convertr+ – This app lets you compare multiple currencies at once and convert units like Celsius to Fahrenheit or milliliters to ounces.
iOS Calculator –iOS 18 has a built-in converter. Just open the calculator, tap the icon at the bottom, turn on the convert switch, and enter what you need.
These apps can help you sidestep travel hiccups, avoid overspending, and stay on track, making them essential, not optional. Download your favorites, then pack smart with the Travelpro® Altitude™ Backpack, breeze through check-in with the Platinum® Elite Large Expandable Hard Shell Spinner, or stay nimble with the Maxlite® 5 Compact Expandable Spinner. Syncing powerful apps with intelligent luggage is the ultimate travel operating system—run yours like a pro.
