Alexis LossWith the right planning tools, a trip that would normally feel overwhelming to plan, suddenly can be come exciting. Today’s travel tools can help you whether its to provide local connectivity, translating in a pinch, finding directions or booking last minute experiences. Whether you’re on your dream vacation or a quick weekend getaway, these are my go-to travel tools to use while away.
1. Saily: Your e-sim for seamless connectivity
While planning, I make sure to sign up for Saily so that I can have mobile connectivity while away, no matter the location. I typically will sign up a few days ahead of time for one of their plans. With over 200 destinations, it truly is very easy to sign up. You can choose from several plans that differ in price based on data and the length of time you will require it. No matter the plan, it is significantly less expensive than utilizing my cell phone service’s plan.
Why I Love It:
☆ Instant activation—no need to visit a store or switch physical SIMs
☆ Affordable international data plans compared to traditional roaming fees
☆ Works in multiple countries, perfect for multi-destination trips
Whether you’re navigating Google Maps, booking an Uber, or keeping in touch with loved ones, Saily ensures you stay online wherever you go.
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2. Babbel or Duolingo – Learn the Language on the Go
Nothing enhances your travel experience quite like speaking a few words in the local language to show that you are trying to make the effort to communicate. Babbel and Duolingo are two of the best language-learning apps and I have used both. They each offer different types of learning in lesson and conversational formats.
Babbel is ideal if you’re serious about learning conversational phrases with structured lessons.
Duolingo is fun, gamified, and great for picking up basics in a more relaxed way.
Why I Love Them:
☆ Quick, bite-sized lessons perfect for learning while in transit
☆ Helps you feel more confident navigating a new place
☆ Both apps cover a wide variety of languages
3. Google Translate
Even if you’ve brushed up on some key phrases, there will always be times when you need extra help. Google Translate is a must-have for instant translations, whether you’re reading a menu, talking to a taxi driver, or asking for directions.
Best Features:
☆ Camera Translation: Just point your phone at signs or menus and get an instant translation
☆ Offline Mode: Download language packs so you can translate without WiFi
☆ Conversation Mode: Speak into the app, and it will translate for you in real-time
4. Viator or GetYourGuide – Find the Best Experiences
Tours, skip-the-line tickets, and hidden gem activities—this is where Viator and GetYourGuide shine. These apps let you browse and book unique experiences, from cooking classes to adventure excursions, all in one place.
Which One to Choose?
• Viator is great for finding well-rated, mainstream tours with flexible cancellation policies.
• GetYourGuide offers a mix of popular tours and off-the-beaten-path experiences, often with exclusive access.
Why I Love Them:
☆ Read real traveler reviews before booking
☆ Easy cancellation and refund policies for flexibility
☆ Book in advance or find last-minute activities on the go
5. Travel Insurance
Of course we don’t plan on emergencies happening while on vacation but unfortunately, they can occur for a variety of reasons – whether it be illness, a natural disaster or flight cancellations. This is where travel insurance can come in. A popular option is Faye Travel Insurance.
Why I Love It:
☆ Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost luggage
☆ Easy claims process and real-time assistance
☆ Provides 24/7 customer support, no matter where you are in the world
6. Google Maps
I can’t stress how useful this is while traveling. It will give you plans using public transportation, walking directions or driving directions.
Why I Love It:
☆ Offline maps: Download maps in advance for use without an internet connection
☆ Public Transit Directions: Find the best routes and transit schedules in real-time
☆ Local Recommendations: Discover top-rated restaurants, landmarks, and hidden gems
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Travel Toolkit
Having these apps on your phone can make a huge difference in your travel experience—keeping you connected, helping you communicate with locals, and making it easy to book unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for an affordable eSIM, trying to learn a new language, or booking epic adventures, these apps have you covered.
What are your go-to travel apps? Drop your favorites in the comments!
Using a combination of these tools helps me craft a seamless travel experience:
- SAILY for international wifi with an e-sim card
- Babbel or Duolingo to practice the language prior to your trip – even last minute!
- Google Translate to help with translation in a pinch!
- Viator or GetYourGuide for a last minute experience or tour
- Travel Insurance to cover any emergency
- Google Maps to navigate easily
With the right travel apps, traveling can be made easier and less worrisome. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a girlfriend getaway, these tools ensure a smooth and stress-free trip no matter where in the world you want to go!
What are your favorite travel tools? Let me know in the comments!
