Summer's here, which means it's time to travel! These helpful apps are guaranteed to make your summer travel plans the best ever. Whether you're road tripping, backpacking or hotel hopping, these apps are perfect for making your trips as hassle-free and fun-filled as possible.
1. Airbnb
OK, I know this one is pretty obvious but definitely still worth mentioning. You can book anything from single rooms to entire apartments for great prices. Rather than staying in an expensive hotel, you can live like a local and get to know the community at a more personal level.
2. TripIt
This app truly does it all! You can formulate itineraries and save confirmation numbers all on one platform. You can even have the app formulate an itinerary for you by simply forwarding all of your flight, rental and hotel booking information to them.
3. Couchsurfing
This is a totally free alternative to Airbnb. I repeat, totally free. Instead of renting out a room or apartment, you simply stay in someone's home on a vacant couch or pullout bed. It's the ideal way to save money while traveling from place to place.
4. Foodspotting
This app provides a visual guide to the restaurants near you and displays their most recommended dishes. You can not only read reviews and comments, but access images of popular dishes, too. You'll never have to order blindly again!
5. CityMapper
CityMapper is a step above Google maps. The app takes into consideration subway routes, departure times and Uber integration to give you a real-time estimate of your arrival time. The app also notifies you of any cancellations or disruptions in your schedule.
6. GasBuddy
This app is a must-have for any road trip. It identifies the most affordable place to buy gas near you and routes you to the location. With gas prices constantly rising, this app is sure to save you time and money!
6. Uber
Again, another obvious one, but is definitely a great alternative to hailing cabs. Uber is a fast and easy way to get rides in unfamiliar places. Looking for an alternative to Uber? Try a similar app called Lyft, which is a little less known but equally useful.
7. Hostelbookers
Backpacking through Europe? Looking for cheap lodging options? Hostelbookers is the website for you. This app is basically the hostel equivalent of Airbnb, allowing you to compare and book beds in hostels ahead of time.
8. Momondo
Momondo's all-purpose travel app is a great way to find the cheapest deals for flights, rental cars, hotels and much more. The app even notifies you if prices go down. It's like Expedia and Kayak rolled into one!
9. Packing Pro
Although this app isn't free, it is definitely worth the money ($1.99 at the app store). You input your travel destination and the time of year, and Packing Pro comes up with suggestions and a packing list customized to your trip's destination. It even takes into account your clothes washing preferences and the number of days you'll be gone.
10. Around Me
This app is great for your big city travels. AroundMe displays a map of all the best attractions, restaurants, bars and just about any place you may be interested in and allows you to read reviews and comments.
