The best apps to help you find your way while travelling

So whether you’re heading overseas, traveling around Australia, or simply popping down to the local shops, there’s no shortage of apps to help you find where you’re going.

Is there anything more frustrating than planning your big European summer holiday, only to have emails upon emails from all your different reservations? TripIt takes the hassle out of having to search through your inbox, and creates a master itinerary for you. Everything from your car hire, flights, and hotel reservations are conveniently mapped out in one app for a stress-free vacay. While some apps can be tricky when it comes to bookings, TripIt doesn’t care where you book, and it’s as easy as forwarding through your confirmation. While there is a free version which allows you access to the main features and safely stores all your travel plans, for US$49 you can upgrade to the PRO version, which offers more features for when you’re on the move, flight alerts, and a range of other notifications.

It could be one of the biggest gripes when travelling – what to do about data? Unless you’re able to get a sim card at your destination, there’s not a heap of options left when you need to find your way around. This is where MAPS.ME becomes VERY handy. No matter where you are in the world, you’re able to download maps and access them offline, meaning you’re saving yourself those pesky data fees. There’s also driving, walking, and a cycling navigation, and points of interest highlighted. You can also share your location with friends, which is helpful when you’re trying to find where to meet the group during a night out in New York or London! It’s free to download and use, however to remove ads from within the app you’ll need to pay.

If you’re wondering why WAZE is familiar, you might have seen it pop up on your Spotify account while using it with Apple CarPlay or Bluetooth – I know I have!

The app offers community-based free driving directions, traffic reports and GPS navigation, with WAZE users able to report traffic incidents and anything that may hold you up, and will find the fastest way to your destination. It also offers alerts before you approach police, accidents, hazards, and traffic jams, all shared by other drivers, so you’re sure not to miss your 7am flight, or so you can plan your road trip accordingly.

Offering worldwide coverage, Citymapper is the ultimate transport app. With an A to B journey planner, the app gives your real-time departures, maps, updates and disruption alerts. If you’re exploring Sydney or Melbourne, Citymapper offers transport for trains, buses, ferries, trams/light rail, and a number of other services in the city. It’ll also give you an ETA for no matter which transport option you go with - metro, train, bus, ferry, or driving/Uber!

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