Free Useful Travel Apps You'll Actually Use (2023)

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Last month, we upgraded our phones and decided it was time to start being stingy with our app downloads. We began deleting all the unnecessary apps that never got used or used only once. Here are the apps we decided to keep that especially come in handy when we were traveling. 

A woman on her phone at the airport

CRYSTAL AT TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Google Offline Maps

You most likely already have this app downloaded, but did you know you can now download offline maps? In late December 2015, Google finally decided to give us this amazing feature. Now you won't have to worry about getting lost when your phone loses signal.

I hate driving or walking and all of a sudden my trusted navigator is no longer there with me. So the next time you are heading out and think you will be in an area with limited service, go to Google Maps and download the area of your location and destination.

Make sure to do this beforehand on a wifi signal so you don't eat up your data. You can read more about this on Google's official blog. 

A screenshot of my phone maps

 

Flush Toilet Finder & Map

I hate it when you have to go and the nearest establishment you walk into has a huge sign that says, "No Public Restrooms". I see more and more of this on my travels and plainly put, it SUCKS! This app helps you locate the quickest and simplest way to find a public bathroom or restroom.

Flush toilet finder screenshot

IMAGE SOURCE ITUNES

Xe Currency & Money Transfers

We sometimes need a little help converting the exchange rate and this app makes it super easy. The app has a clear and easy user-friendly interface with immediate results.

It also works offline if you don’t have a network connection; however, it can’t update rates while offline (obviously). We’ve never had to transfer money while traveling, but it’s a service it provides if you need it.

xe currency exchnage app screenshot

IMAGE SOURCE: ITUNES

iExit Interstate Exit Guide

Any road-trippers out there? We have been on numerous road trips in the past few years and this app is extremely helpful. It’s our most used app when we are on the road.

This app will guide you in finding the best exits for cheap gas, food, hotel discounts, and more. It’s definitely a must-have for your next road trip if you are driving on the interstate.

iExit app screenshot

IMAGE SOURCE ITUNES

Venmo

"I'm out of cash. Can I borrow some money and I'll pay you back later when I find an ATM?" How many times have you heard this one? This happens to us more often than not, especially when traveling with friends. With Venmo, you can easily transfer money without having to find that ATM machine and also avoid those darn fees.

venmo screenshot paying a friend

TripWhistle Global SOS

If you’re a solo traveler, it doesn’t hurt to download and use this app for peace of mind. This app is dedicated to keeping you safe and allows you to easily text or send your GPS coordinates of locations.

It also provides emergency numbers, which is super helpful since 911 is only for US-based emergencies. Each country has its own specific number.

TripWhistle app screenshot

IMAGE SOURCE: ITUNES

There were more travel apps we came across that seemed helpful, but they weren't free. Or they would have a free version with limited capability and to gain full access, you would have to pay to upgrade.

We've traveled for years without these apps, so unless it was an app that was a huge game changer, we didn't feel like it was worth paying for. Have an app that we didn't mention? Comment below and let us know.

USEFUL TRAVEL APPS