August 10, 2025
Your suitcase is packed, but are you sure you have everything you need? These apps can help make your trip easier, safer, and more entertaining. You may be packing for a weekend getaway or two weeks abroad, but do you apply the same level of preparation to your cell phone or tablet? Think of your device as a second piece of carry-on luggage, with its own checklist of key apps to entertain you, guide you, keep you safe, and much more. .
Explore local attractions.
If you don't have time to research or prefer to improvise, there are apps that suggest attractions, experiences, and little-known spots near your location. Google Maps, Travel Advisor, AroundMe, Yelp, and Foursquare are still great allies for finding everything from monuments to ice cream shops with good reviews.
Translation on the go
Although you probably already have Google Translate on your phone, you may not have explored its full potential. This tool allows you to automatically translate printed text using your camera, which is very useful when dealing with menus, signs, or receipts in languages with alphabets other than Roman.
It also includes a conversation mode that facilitates direct communication by allowing you to swap your device between speakers, which is ideal for everyday situations while traveling. You can also customize a list of key phrases before your trip so you have them handy when you need them. If you're looking for alternatives with similar features, apps such as Deepl, Reverso, and Microsoft Translator are worth exploring.
Take care of your personal data
Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in hotels or cafes, can be unsafe. To prevent strangers from accessing your passwords, bank details, or emails, the most efficient and secure way is to use a VPN (virtual private network), such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN, which encrypt your browsing and protect your data.
Although it may seem practical to save copies of your passport, medical insurance card, or prescriptions as photos on your cell phone, it is much safer to use apps that encrypt this information. Some alternatives are 1Password or Microsoft OneDrive Personal Vault.
To get around without complications
For a more detailed look at public transportation, there are apps that are more comprehensive than Google Maps, such as Moovit or Citymapper. In certain countries, hailing a taxi directly on the street can be complicated or risky. When Uber or Lyft are not available, download local, reliable options that offer fixed rates and GPS tracking.