Must Have Apps For Backpackers
I just finished my backpacking trip in South East Asia. And I tried quite a few apps for backpackers but these 10 apps came out as clear winners for me. Usually, the travel apps on the app store are more or less directed towards holiday or business travelers. There are very few apps which actually work for “data deprived” backpackers. Hope these apps help you in your travels.
1. Hostelworld
This app is considered as the world biggest hostel booking site. Whether you’re planning a long weekend in Europe or backpacking through Southeast Asia, their easy-to-use traveling program offers you the biggest choice of lodging at the lowest prices. Find party hostels in some of Asia’s most well-known destinations, such as Bangkok, Hanoi, Sydney and Siem Reap, or select a private room in one of Europe’s many boutique and luxurious hostels. Their flexible booking options and last-minute booking options allow you to remain as adaptable as your travel plans.
2. Momondo
It is a free and inspirational global travel search site comparing billions of cheap flights, hotels, and car hire deals. They give travelers an overview of available travel options without adding any extra fees. They don’t sell flight tickets, hotel rooms or car hire deals – they just show you the available prices and let you choose the offer you prefer. One click and you’re taken directly to your chosen site where the booking is completed.
3. Duolingo
Knowing the local language is not just a necessary skill but also an amazing way to explore the local culture. Duolingo helps you learn any language for free. It can be an essential app for your backpacking trips to at least know some basic phrases to get your job done.
4. Trail Wallet
Built by Simon Fairbairn and Erin McNeaney of Never Ending Voyage, a couple who’ve been traveling full time since March 2010. Trail Wallet is an easy travel expense tracker. Designed to be fast, it takes the headache out of expense tracking so you can focus on the fun. As they say instead of just hoping you’ve got enough money, know.
5. Skyscanner
Probably one of the best flight comparison sites out there. No matter where I end up booking the flight I always check the prices on Skyscanner and most of the times I have landed a pretty good deal for my flight tickets. I prefer other apps for accommodation but for flights, it’s always Skyscanner app.
6. QuizUp
Well, don’t laugh at my choice. QuizUp has been my best buddy in airport lounges, bus stations, waiting for my meal, in the visa queue, loo and where not. I am not a much of a gamer and this app helps me expand my knowledge about the place I am visiting or playing random quizzes. All in all a good time killer!
7. TravelSafe
In times of crisis, it’s important for you to find the crucial information you’re looking for and find it fast.
Especially when you are traveling abroad it’s really crucial to have access to common emergency numbers (police, medical and fire) and sometimes you might have to contact your embassy. With TravelSafe you can have all these information always with you regardless of the data connectivity.
8. BlaBlaCar
This will not just help you in cutting down on your travel expenses but will also help you meet locals. This can help you in getting tips on food joints, hidden spots, and lots of other info which no travel guide can tell you. Also, all this while you save $$$ in commuting.
9. Rome2Rio
Rome2rio is a comprehensive global trip planner that helps you discover how to get anywhere. You can enter any town, address or landmark as your destination and Rome2rio will instantly display flight, train, bus, ferry and driving options with estimated travel times and fares.
10. FoodSpotting
If you are foody like me then you must have this app on your phone. Its food porn on another level. This helps you discover food around you by pictures. Sounds cool? Then try it out.
Apart from these apps I also recommend the usual suspects, Whatsapp, Skype, IMO, Google Maps, Dropbox (Always keep a soft copy of your travel docs safely) etc. Also if you love riding bikes then these bike sharing apps might also help.
And always stay safe!
Bon Voyage!
Psst: Backpacking? Would like to recommend apps for backpackers? If so please share the link in the comments below.