(Updated 12/14/2023)

In my five years of backpacking and wandering, my trusty smartphone has been a constant companion, making my life a heck of a lot easier. At home, I embrace minimalism with an old clunker brick phone, but let’s face it: Smartphones have transformed us into both spoiled and better-equipped travelers. While I use my phone sparingly during travels, here are my top 5 favorite apps for those moments when it becomes needed.

1: Maps.me

Google Maps is fantastic, but it’s only as reliable as your data or Wi-Fi connection. And if you’re like me, buying a local SIM and dealing with the cost and network provider rigamarole make Google Maps useless.

Enter Maps.me, a lifesaver when I was hitchiking through Greece, exploring a Norwegian fjord, and subway hopping the Beijing Metro with limited connectivity. Simply download the regional map before your journey, and this offline app has rescued me countless times when navigating the wilderness or figuring out which direction to hitch a ride.

While lacking Google Maps’ public transport advice, Maps.me added a subway layer a few years back. It’s quickly become a daily go-to for my weekend rambles.

2: Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is my go-to app for meeting incredible people during my travels. While well known for its ability to connect you with locals and maybe even stay on their couch, the app stands out with its “Hangouts” and “Events” sections. I’ve joined free tours, pub crawls, language lessons, and hikes, enhancing my solo travel with socialization and education.

Use Hangouts cautiously; it connects you with other users for impromptu meetups. A lot of people tend to use Couchsurfing like a dating app these days, so do vet these strangers carefully and go with your gut if things ever feel off. Despite the occasional uncomfortable situation, it’s a blessing to overcome loneliness in a new city and gain unique local perspectives.

Check out the story with this photo here.

3: Skyscanner

Endless debates exist over the best flight app—Kayak, Momondo, or Skyscanner. The truth? They’re all good, but Skyscanner shines for flexible backpackers in my opinion. While the app isn’t as robust as the website, it excels in finding the cheapest flights for those unsure about their next destination.

Whether leaving on a specific date or planning a month-long trip, Skyscanner’s flexibility options reveal the cheapest flights and destinations, making it a favorite for budget-conscious and open-minded travelers. I’ve taken plenty of $1.25 RyanAir flights to Poland on a whim. So if you have some free time and don’t mind weird connections, Skyscanner is the way to go.

Story from this photo here.

4: Yr.no and MyRadar

Yr.no, a Norwegian forecasting service, provides accurate real-time and future weather forecasts. Though I prefer checking outside, Yr.no is my reliable backup. MyRadar is ideal for anticipating travel plans, offering live radar and information on natural disasters, and providing peace of mind and insights into local weather patterns.

5: Spendee

Spendee turns managing your budget into an aesthetically pleasing and somewhat enjoyable experience. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers, allowing easy tracking of expenses in various currencies. You can even link your bank information for a comprehensive overview, though privacy considerations may vary.

This is me looking at my bank account. Read the story behind the photo here.

Honorable Mentions

This is actually from a steamy train in Azerbaijan, but it fit the context so suck it up.

Google Translate

Google Translate’s evolving technology enables spoken translations into multiple languages, downloadable for offline use. Ideal for lost moments or hitchhiking adventures, it’s a valuable tool in countries where language barriers can pose challenges, like Albania, China, and Georgia.

More about Georgia here.

These apps have been my reliable companions across the globe. I hope they enhance your travel experiences. If I missed any gems, please share your recommendations in the comments. Keep rambling!