Ready to hit the road? This list of apps makes it easy to plan for your vacation and navigate your way around seamlessly once you’re there. Experience restaurants and landmarks just like a local and never feel lost. Here are some tools to download onto your tablet or smartphone and take with you on your next adventure.
The Best Apps & Tools to Plan a Vacation
VACATION PLANNERS
Planapple – Create, organize and share your vacation plans with family and friends. This free app keeps all your ideas in one place.
Roadtrippers – If you’ve decided to go on the road, take this app with you. Plan your route, stop for sightseeing along the way with suggested attractions, and share your experiences on social networks.
Tripit – This free vacation planner organizes your vacation plans into one master, printable itinerary. Based on your flight and hotel emails, Tripit will automatically generate maps and driving directions.
HOTEL & FLIGHT BOOKERS
Kayak – The great thing about Kayak is that it will compare the absolute best prices on flights and hotels by even referring to other apps, like Orbitz, to ensure you get the best deals.
Skyscanner – Compare flights and prices based on dates and travel times to find the best deal. This app also provides deals on car rental and hotels.
ACTIVITIES
Travelzoo – Get discount tickets to shows and attractions in cities across the U.S. and around the world.
Groupon – Get deals on restaurants, spas, and activities based on your selected city.
Living Social – Find deals on restaurants, sightseeing tours, local shops, and sporting events in your choice of city.
FOOD
Yelp – Search nearby restaurants, bars, and shops based on categories and location. The easy rating system provides quick tips and features menus for browsing before you go.
Urbanspoon – This free app helps you find nearby restaurants and makes recommendations based on your preferences. Check reviews for real user opinions on each location.
CITY GUIDES
TripAdvisor – Download offline maps for your city of choice and know where to eat, shop, and visit without the need for a Wi-Fi connection. Just be sure you download your maps before leaving an area with internet access.
AroundMe – Find nearby bars, restaurants, coffee shops (and much more) based on your current location with this GPS-driven app that’s available in several languages.
TRANSPORTATION
Uber – This app connects you with a driver within minutes based on your location. No need to hail a cab in a city you’re not familiar with. Just click on your location and request a driver.
City-Go-Round – Check this website for a list of apps that provide you with bus, train, and transportation schedules based on your preferred city.