Nearly 70% of UK adults now own a smartphone, and the number of apps which you can buy is booming. It’s easy to clutter up the screen and memory of your smartphone with any number of apps which say they will help you travel smarter and easier, but which ones are really worth downloading?
Map Apps
There’s really no need to struggle with paper maps any longer while in an unfamiliar city. There are loads of mapping apps which will help you find your way around either on foot or using the city’s public transport network. Google maps is one of the best known apps, and is great for basic mapping and showing you the best route from one place to another. Another great app is Citymapper, which gives all the basic maps you’ll need, with the addition of cycle routes and real time information about departure times and delays. Citymapper isn’t available in every city worldwide, but is expanding all the time.
Language Apps
Language barriers can be difficult when you’re trying to make yourself understood in a hotel or restaurant. The Google translate app will help overcome language difficulties and is ideal for helping work out an unusual menu item. You can even hold your camera up against a sign or menu, and Google will provide an immediate translation. It is less reliable when translating longer blocks of text, and if you’d prefer to brush up on your language skills before leaving home, try the Duolingo app, which will teach you basics of dozens of languages including French, Portuguese and Swedish.
Things To Do
Most travellers do their homework before leaving home and have a rough idea of the main attractions they wish to see when they arrive. If you’re looking for information about restaurants, bars and other events, download the TimeOut app which is packed with information about what concerts and events are taking place, and some events will let you book tickets directly through the app. Many cities around the world have developed their own apps for tourists, and as these vary hugely in quality and content, check them out before you go.
Health Apps
Although designed for an American audience, the TravWell app from the US Center for Disease Control has useful features for British travellers too. It contains health guidance for countries around the globe, tells you which vaccinations may be recommended and allows you to make a record on your phone of any prescription medicines. Many of the features can be accessed without needing to use data, and one of the most useful features is a list of emergency numbers for every country. If you are travelling within Europe, another useful app is the EHIC app. This app doesn’t take the place of a card, but gives you lots of information about accessing healthcare in the various countries of the EEA, including what treatment is covered. If you’re prone to upset stomachs on holiday the “Can I Eat This?” app works on a traffic light system to give advice on what foods are best avoided.