Planning an international trip can be exciting, but it can also be a lot to manage. From booking flights and finding places to stay to navigating new cities and staying safe, there is a mobile app for everything. The right travel apps can make your journey to a foreign country smoother and more enjoyable.
This guide highlights the 10 best apps for every step of your travel planning, helping you save money where it counts so you can splurge on unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re flying solo, traveling as a couple, or exploring with friends, these apps will be your ultimate travel companions.
- Going
- Flighty
- PackPoint
- Bounce Luggage
- City Mapper
- Flush
- TimeShifter
- Smart Traveler
- Viator
- AirBNB Experiences
You can download these travel apps on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on your mobile device. Let’s dive in!
Flights & Planning ✈️
1. Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights)
Why You Need It: Flights can be one of the biggest travel expenses, but Going helps you find amazing deals on international flights.
Top Features:
- Customizable flight deal alerts
- Exclusive deals for premium members
- Flexible search options based on destination and budget
Pricing: Free version available; premium starts at $49/year. Get 20% off when you sign up HERE!
Savings Tip: The money you save on flights can be put towards luxury experiences or upgraded accommodations.
2. Flighty
Why You Need It: Flight delays and cancellations can be costly and stressful. Flighty helps you stay informed with real-time flight tracking and predictive updates, so you can adjust your travel plans before any surprises hit.
Top Features:
- Real-time flight status updates
- Delay predictions based on historical data
- Push notifications for gate changes or cancellations
Pricing: Free version available; premium features for $47.99/year
Travel Tip: Flighty’s delay predictions can help you avoid unexpected hotel or meal costs during long layovers.
Luggage Management & Packing 🧳
3. PackPoint
Why You Need It: Overpacking can lead to extra baggage fees and unnecessary stress. PackPoint creates customized packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, and planned activities.
Top Features:
- Weather-based packing suggestions
- Activity-specific checklists (hiking, beach, business, etc.)
- Shareable lists for group trips
Pricing: Free with premium upgrades available for $2.99
Pro Tip: Traveling light not only saves on baggage fees but also makes navigating airports and train stations easier.
4. Bounce Luggage
Why You Need It: Whether you arrive early or have a late flight, dragging your luggage around can ruin a day of sightseeing. Bounce allows you to store your bags safely at trusted locations worldwide.
Top Features:
- Over 10,000 storage locations in 2,000 cities
- 24/7 access to your luggage
- Insurance coverage included for each item stored
Pricing: Pay-per-bag model, starting at $5 per bag per day. Get $5 off a booking over $10 for your next trip!
Budget Tip: Use Bounce to avoid hotel late check-out fees or early check-in charges.
Navigation & Local Transportation 🌍
5. Citymapper
Why You Need It: Public transportation is often the most cost-effective way to get around, but navigating it in a new city can be daunting. Citymapper offers step-by-step directions, live updates, and multi-modal route planning.
Top Features:
- Detailed routes for buses, trains, trams, and ferries
- Offline maps for major cities
- Real-time updates and alerts
Pricing: Free
Budget Tip: Save money by using public transport instead of taxis or rideshares, especially in expensive cities like London or Tokyo.
6. Flush
Why You Need It: When traveling, finding a clean, accessible restroom can be a challenge. Flush helps you locate public restrooms quickly, even when you’re offline.
Top Features:
- Database of over 200,000 public restrooms
- User reviews and ratings
- Offline functionality
Pricing: Free
Travel Tip: Avoid unnecessary purchases at cafes just to use the restroom—Flush points you to free options nearby.
Safety & Wellness 🛡️
7. Timeshifter
Beat Jet Lag Before It Beats You
Why You Need It: Jet lag can steal precious days from your trip. Timeshifter creates a personalized plan to help you adjust to new time zones quickly.
Top Features:
- Custom schedules based on your flight details and sleep patterns
- Practical advice on when to sleep, seek light, or take melatonin
- Notifications and reminders
Pricing: First plan free; subscriptions available for frequent travelers
Wellness Tip: Start following your Timeshifter plan a day or two before your flight for the best results.
8. Smart Traveler (by the U.S. State Department)
Why You Need It: Safety is a top priority when traveling internationally. Smart Traveler keeps you updated on safety advisories and offers crucial information about your destination.
Top Features:
- Travel alerts and warnings
- Contact information for embassies and consulates
- Emergency assistance resources
Pricing: Free
Peace-of-Mind Tip: Register your trip with the U.S. embassy through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive real-time updates if an emergency arises in the foreign country you are visiting.
Exploring & Experiences 🏞️
9. Viator
Unforgettable Adventures at Your Fingertips
Why You Need It: Viator makes it easy to find and book incredible experiences, from skip-the-line museum passes to unique guided tours.
Top Features:
- Thousands of activities and tours worldwide
- Flexible cancellation policies
- Verified reviews from fellow travelers
Pricing: Varies by experience
Splurge Tip: Use Viator to plan one big, unforgettable experience—like a hot air balloon ride or wine tour!
10. Airbnb Experiences
Connect with Locals and Discover Hidden Gems
Why You Need It: Airbnb Experiences offers unique, locally led activities that go beyond traditional tours. From cooking classes to guided hikes, you’ll get an authentic taste of your destination.
Top Features:
- Wide variety of experiences, including niche and off-the-beaten-path activities
- Small group sizes for a more personal experience
- Instant booking and flexible cancellation
Pricing: Varies by travel experience; many budget-friendly options available
Insider Tip: Choose an Airbnb Experience hosted by a local for a deeper cultural connection.
Get Ready for Takeoff
International travel can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it requires smart planning and the right tools. With these travel apps, you can save money, stay safe, and make the most of every moment. From booking affordable flights to finding hidden gems, these digital companions will make your next adventure smoother and more memorable.
Ready to plan your perfect trip? Reach out to Postcards and Pints to start drafting your travel plans today!
