Over the years, from backpacking trips to remote canoe routes and ski seasons abroad. I’ve learned that the right travel apps make travel easier, safer, and more flexible.
I keep my setup minimal: not dozens of apps, just a reliable core that works offline, across borders, and in remote areas.
These are the travel apps I personally use again and again.
Navigation & Trail Apps
Maps.me — Best Offline Map App
One of the first apps I install before any trip.
- Full country downloads
- Works without mobile data
- Shows trails & small roads
- Often better rural detail than Google Maps
Best for: Offline navigation, small towns, trailheads
Offline navigation in remote areas
Topo GPS — Remote Navigation
When terrain matters, topo maps matter.
- Elevation lines
- Terrain features
- Strong coverage in Scandinavia & Europe
Best for: Trekking, canoe trips, backcountry routes
AllTrails — Trail Discovery
Great for finding known hikes and checking recent conditions.
- Route database
- Reviews & photos
- Difficulty ratings
Best for: National parks & popular hiking zones
Budget & Money Apps
XE Currency — Exchange Rates
Quick rate checks prevent stupid mistakes when tired.
- Fast conversion
- Offline stored rates
Best for: Quick price reality check
Revolut — My Main Travel Card
My primary travel payment method.
- Strong exchange rates
- Multi-currency wallet
- Easy freeze/unfreeze
Best for: Paying & withdrawing abroad
I personally use Revolut as my main travel card, you can check it here →
Flights & Accommodation
Trip.com — My Main Flight Booking App
I still compare — but often book here.
- Clean interface
- Good long-haul prices
- Easy ticket changes
- Rewards system
Best for: Flights + hotels
🔎 I compare flights here first, then double-check elsewhere.
Hostelworld — Best for Social Hostels
Still best for vibe & social ratings.
- Backpacker reviews
- Atmosphere scoring
Best for: Solo travel
Airbnb — Unique & Longer Stays
Good backup when everything else is full.
- Apartments
- Cabins
- Longer stays
Language Apps
Google Translate — Essential Travel Tool
Used almost daily when abroad.
- Camera translate
- Offline packs
- Voice input
Best for: Menus, signs, conversations
Duolingo — Basic Language Prep
A few words change interactions.
Best for: Pre-trip basics
Transport & Connectivity
Airalo — eSIM Travel Data
Install data before landing.
- Instant activation
- Country & regional plans
- No SIM swap
Best for: Immediate connectivity
Taxi Apps by Region
Install based on destination:
Utility & Creative Apps
InShot — Quick Travel Edits
Fast reels & short edits without laptop.
Surfshark VPN — Travel Privacy
Useful on public Wi-Fi & restricted networks.
Bonus: Social Travel Fun
Piccolo / Boomit — Group Travel Games
Good for hostels & slow evenings.
