These 7 apps make traveling easier

Whether on a city break, a beach holiday, or an adventure trip, the smartphone has long been an indispensable travel companion. The right apps help you find your way around, save money, overcome language barriers, or quickly solve minor everyday problems on the go. This selection presents seven practical applications that should be on every trip:

Windy

Wind speed, temperature, humidity, air pressure, rain, storms, and much more: The free version of the weather app "Windy.com" provides a wealth of weather data during your trip, including information on sea conditions and snow depth. For a detailed forecast or weather prediction for a specific location, you can either click on it on the integrated map or use the search function. The app is clearly laid out and easy to use.

Google Maps

Google Maps is arguably the world's most popular map app and an essential companion on many trips. The application offers comprehensive maps, navigation services, and public transportation information. Google Maps, however, isn't just a guide in unfamiliar areas; it also provides details on local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Furthermore, offline map access is available, which is a significant advantage, especially given the high cost of roaming.

Google Translate

Communicating abroad using gestures might work in certain situations. It's easier with the Google Translate app. This translation tool covers a wide variety of languages. The dictation function is particularly useful abroad, as the application translates what you say in standard German into the desired language. However, as with all digital translators, it's important to note that the application often translates words verbatim, which doesn't always produce the desired result. A good alternative to Google Translate is, for example, the DeepL app.

Getyourguide

What began as a startup in Zurich in 2009 has since become one of the most popular travel apps: GetYourGuide. The app offers over 140,000 travel experiences in 10,000 cities – including attractions with hard-to-find tickets and insider tips. Tours, activities, and tickets can be conveniently booked through the app. Booking confirmations and all other information about the upcoming experience are sent directly to your smartphone via the app.

Polarsteps

Want those back home to at least virtually join you on your trip? Then «Polarsteps» is the perfect app. Using GPS, the application automatically records your route, including all the places you visit. This creates a visual representation of your journey that you can share online with friends and family. You can also add photos and text to each recorded point. And if you like, you can even create your own tour using the integrated route planner.

Toilet Finder

Your bladder is bursting, and you're not always as familiar with a strange city as you are with your own. For this «emergency,» there's the «Toilet Finder» app. Using a map or list view, the app helps you locate the nearest toilet – including the exact distance and information on whether it's free and accessible. The ratings of the restrooms are also very useful. It's good to know that most of the over 150,000 listed toilets are located in large cities; this is less common in rural areas. Therefore, the app is particularly useful for city trips.

XE Currency

With the «XE Currency» app, you're always up-to-date on exchange rates. The currency converter also works offline. Furthermore, the application offers worldwide money transfers.