Travel Apps We Can’t Live Without (and Why They’re Total Game Changers)
Let’s talk travel tools! Our little digital lifesavers that make the adventure smoother, safer, and waaaay more fun!
Between the two of us, we’ve spent months living out of suitcases, hopping around the world, navigating unfamiliar cities, and even getting locked out of a rural Italian villa (a story for another day). And if there’s one thing we’ve learned? The right apps can make or break a trip. These aren’t sponsored or trendy apps, they’re the real MVPs of our travel lives!
Whether you’re planning a big Euro summer, a weekend escape, or a spontaneous solo adventure, here are the travel apps we actually use, and why they’re worth the storage space on your phone.
✨ GetYourGuide
We used to spend hours trying to find authentic experiences in new cities, and honestly, still ended up at a tourist trap more than once. GetYourGuide changed that. It’s full of unique tours and experiences, from pasta-making in Rome to kayaking in Croatia, and it’s usually more affordable than booking through a hotel!
Pro tip: We’ve partnered with them for a discount, so DM us or check our Linktree if you're planning a trip!
🧠 Wanderlog
We am OBSESSED with this app. This is our holy grail for trip planning. It’s like a digital brain for your itinerary— flights, accommodations, maps, notes, and even AI suggestions all in one place. Kelly planned two months across Europe with it and still swears she would’ve had a meltdown without it. We tell everyone about this app. It’s especially helpful for neurodivergent brains (hiii 🙋♀️) who thrive with structure and visual tools.
🌍 Nomadago
Ever arrived somewhere new and thought: “Okay… now what?” Nomadago helps you connect with other travelers nearby. It’s great for solo adventurers or digital nomads looking to grab coffee or cowork together. Some of our best memories came from spontaneous hangouts with people we met through this app. Human connection on the road? Underrated and so needed.
🚨 Smart Traveler
This one’s from the U.S. Department of State, and yes, it feels like a “duh” app, but we’re including it because it’s surprisingly easy to forget to check local safety advisories. Traveling with a disability or chronic illness? It helps to know what kind of healthcare access or emergency resources are available ahead of time. We check this before booking anything international.
🗣️ Google Translate
Seems like another “duh” app, but seriously you can’t survive without it if you’re in a foreign country and don’t speak the language. A lifesaver when you're fumbling through menus or trying to ask for directions with a language you don’t speak. The feature we use the most? The live camera translation feature. One time, it helped us avoid ordering cow tongue. 10/10 recommend.
💱 Xe
Currency exchange math makes our brains hurt, especially after a long travel day. Xe gives you up-to-date rates and helps you figure out if that €14 Aperol Spritz is actually a deal or a tourist trap in disguise.
🚗 Uber
We know, you’ve probably already got this, but Uber has saved us in countless places around the world. It’s often more accessible and safer than figuring out unfamiliar public transportation systems late at night (especially when you’re solo or exhausted).
🎧 Viator
Great for curated tours, especially if you’re short on time. We’ve found last minute wine tastings, museum skip the line passes, and even guided hikes. It’s like having a local concierge in your pocket.
🏡 Airbnb
Another app you probably have, but we have to say it anyway. It’s a classic. Lodging is hit or miss depending on where you’re going, but their experiences section is full of gold. Think tapas crawls, rooftop yoga, or tiny workshops with local artisans. Some of our most meaningful travel memories came from these more personal, small-group moments.
🗺️ Been
This app is just for you, but it’s such a great app for travelers! The one who tears up looking at a passport stamp. It lets you track where you’ve been and dream about where you’re headed next. There’s something so satisfying about watching your map fill in. It’s not bragging, it’s a reminder of how far you’ve come.
Final Thoughts
Traveling should feel exciting, not overwhelming. These apps have helped us feel more confident, less frazzled, and more connected. Not just to the places we’re visiting, but to the people around us and the memories we’re making.
And accessibility is something we think about every time we plan. Whether it’s apps that help reduce decision fatigue or tools that connect you to real humans in a new city, we hope these help make your journey feel a little more magical (and a lot more manageable).
Let us know if you try any or if you have a ride-or-die travel app we should add to our list. You know we love a good recommendation.
Happy travels,
💛 Kelly & Ashley
Peachy Passports