Traveling abroad is exciting, but let’s be honest—navigating unfamiliar transportation systems, converting currencies, and figuring out where to eat can be stressful. Thankfully, there are apps that simplify almost every aspect of international travel. Whether you’re backpacking across Europe, working remotely in Southeast Asia, or planning a long-term stay somewhere new, having the right apps on your phone can save you time, money, and frustration.
In this guide, I’m sharing 10 tried-and-tested apps that make life significantly easier abroad. These aren’t gimmicks—they’re tools I’ve used personally or seen fellow travelers rely on, and I wouldn’t explore the world without them.
Google Maps – Your Offline Navigation Lifesaver
It might sound obvious, but Google Maps is one of the most essential travel apps out there. Not only does it offer accurate turn-by-turn directions, but you can also download maps for offline use—a must in places with poor data coverage.
You can pin favorite restaurants, mark hotel locations, and even create custom travel plans with saved places. It’s ideal for walking, biking, public transportation, or driving.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Rome2Rio – Instantly Compare Transit Options
Rome2Rio is my go-to app when I land in a new city and have no idea how to get from A to B. It searches and compares all available transport options—bus, train, flight, ferry, car rental—and displays costs and travel time for each route.
It’s especially helpful in regions where local transit info isn’t well organized online. From cross-country journeys to short intra-city hops, this app gives you a complete picture.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Xe Currency – Real-Time Exchange Rates and Offline Conversion
Need to know how much €23 is in your home currency while shopping in Paris? Xe Currency provides fast, accurate conversion rates, both online and offline. You can store rates for up to 10 currencies and use the app without internet—a lifesaver when you’re abroad.
It also lets you monitor rate trends, which can help when exchanging larger sums or booking flights and hotels in foreign currencies.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Google Translate – Break Down Language Barriers
Don’t underestimate the power of Google Translate. It now supports over 130 languages and can translate text, voice, handwriting, and even photos. You can download entire language packs for offline use, and the real-time conversation mode is useful for ordering food, asking directions, or chatting with locals.
For languages with different alphabets, like Japanese or Russian, the instant camera translation is a game-changer.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Airbnb – More Than Just Accommodations
Most people know Airbnb for short-term rentals, but in recent years it’s expanded to include long-term stays, local experiences, and even co-working space bookings. The filters make it easy to find Wi-Fi-friendly properties or apartments with kitchens and washing machines—great for digital nomads or slow travelers.
Their new “Rooms” category, launched in response to rising hotel costs, lets you book private rooms in someone’s home for budget-friendly rates.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
WhatsApp – Free Global Messaging and Calls
In many parts of the world, especially in Europe, South America, and Asia, WhatsApp is the default messaging app. It’s used by locals, tour operators, Airbnb hosts, and even government offices. You can make voice and video calls, send documents, and create group chats—all for free over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
It’s especially handy for keeping in touch with international friends and coordinating with hosts or guides without needing a local SIM card right away.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Trail Wallet – Travel Expense Tracking Made Simple
Trail Wallet is an easy-to-use expense tracker built specifically for travelers. You can categorize spending by country, currency, and trip, helping you stay within your budget. It’s intuitive and works offline, so you can log expenses on the go.
It’s particularly useful for long-term travelers or digital nomads who need to keep an eye on spending across multiple currencies and countries.
(Note: No Android version currently available)
Skyscanner – Find the Cheapest Flights Anywhere
Skyscanner remains one of the best tools for finding affordable flights. You can search “Everywhere” as a destination, compare entire months for price trends, and get notified when fares drop.
In 2025, Skyscanner also includes eco-conscious flight filters, multi-city trip builders, and car rental and hotel options. It’s perfect for spontaneous planners or long-term travelers on flexible schedules.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Wise (formerly TransferWise) – Low-Cost International Transfers
Wise is my go-to app for sending money abroad and holding multiple currencies in one place. It’s cheaper than traditional banks and faster than PayPal when it comes to international transfers.
You can also use your Wise card abroad to pay in local currencies with minimal fees and get paid in foreign currencies if you’re freelancing remotely.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Google Drive – Keep Your Important Docs Safe
When you’re traveling long-term, keeping digital copies of your passport, travel insurance, visa letters, and important bookings is crucial. Google Drive offers cloud storage with easy folder organization and offline access.
It’s also great for collaborating on travel itineraries or sharing photos with friends and family. If you’re planning on working abroad, you can even store contracts and work permits here securely.
Download on Android
Download on iOS
Final Tips for Using Travel Apps Efficiently
Having these apps is just the beginning. Here are a few extra tips to make the most of them while abroad:
Download offline maps and language packs before you leave Wi-Fi
Keep your apps updated to ensure you have the latest security patches
Use folders or widgets on your phone to keep travel tools organized
Enable 2FA (two-factor authentication) on apps with personal data
Back up important information like passport scans in the cloud
In 2025, digital tools are your best friend on the road. Whether you’re a weekend traveler or a full-time nomad, having the right apps in your pocket makes life smoother, safer, and a whole lot more enjoyable.