There are few things as pleasurable — or as stressful — as travel.
The world offers so many beautiful and amazing things to see, but sadly, few of them are right around the corner from home. So when it comes time to plan and embark on these outings, your technology is going to make the process a lot more manageable.
Planning
Do yourself a favor and do your homework! Whether you’re driving or flying, make sure you have a plan.
Maps
Websites and apps like Furkot and Roadtrippers are great for helping you plan your route and giving you info on what to expect. They can also help you add details like the stops along the way, and provide estimates for drive time and arrival.
Airport Prep
If you’re flying instead of driving, do yourself a favor and get everything in one place with an app like TripIt. Once set up, TripIt will collect all your flight, rental car, hotel, and other reservations into one place, with helpful insights and updates before and during the trip. Also check out MyTSA for help preparing for and getting through security. And don’t forget to do your homework if you’re crossing a border.
Lists
Speaking of crossing borders, ever had that moment right as you approach a border where you aren’t sure where your passport is?
No?
… me neither. But it’s not great.
Do yourself a favor and make a list of what you need for your trip. Obviously there are lots of list apps out there, but a solid one with excellent free and premium options is AnyList. Make one list for road trips and another for airline trips, and make sure you check everything off before you leave the house. Like passports.
Tripping
The adventure begins! These apps can help you as you navigate the ups and downs.
Driving
Once you hit the road, you may find that your best-laid plans are reduced to ruins by combinations of traffic, weather, and unexpected bathroom stops.
GasBuddy can help you find the nearest gas station in a pinch, or help you find the cheapest stop on your route. Roadtrippers can serve up support with the food, accommodation, and entertainment options en route, even when that route is changing. And Google Maps [Android] [Apple] is the ultimate in critical support on the road, showing slowdowns and alternative routes when plans change.
Visiting
Cover your bases with Transit, an app with local transit info on more than 300 cities and regions. Or if you’re looking at more of a rural adventure, consider the National Parks app, which includes resources for more than 400 national parks.
Many of the places you visit during your travels will have their own apps and tools for helping you find local experiences and get around. These tools can unearth gems you’re unlikely to find via TripAdvisor, so it’s worth seeking them out.
Working
If you’re planning to work while you’re traveling, or if you’re just concerned about taking some extra steps for security, get a VPN for your phone and/or tablet. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) app will allow you to use your device safely and privately while on those convenient open Wi-Fi networks. Check out ProtonVPN, which offers both free and premium options.
In Conclusion
Wherever you’re headed, take some tech with you to make the trip easier and more pleasant. These apps can help rescue your trip and keep you on the path to success — including literal paths with apps like AllTrails.
And remember, whatever happens, you’ll forget the small disappointments in a few days, and the big ones will make for a good story.
Safe travels!
