We took our first international trip since the pandemic to Mexico City earlier this month! Is anyone else like us and actually LOVE to plan travel itineraries and prepare for an upcoming trip? We are sharing a roundup of some of our favorite and most useful apps to download to plan for your next big adventure.
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For Getting Around
Uber: We typically opt for rideshare services when traveling internationally instead of taxis where possible. We’ve found Uber is one of the most lucrative ride sharing apps internationally so it has become our go-to when traveling. While we’re domestic, we will also use Lyft because you can get extra Delta miles for every ride. In Mexico City, we also tried out DiDi and Beat which were two safe (and even cheaper!) options.
For Safety
NordVPN: When we are working remotely, it’s important to have a VPN to add an extra layer of security. This is especially important if you are connecting to public wifi networks at cafes, Airbnbs, hotels etc. We use NordVPN to keep our computer and phone information safe.
For Planning
TripIt: We use TripIt to keep track of our flights, lodging for ourselves and more importantly to send to friends and family. It’s hard to dig through group threads and messages to find “where was that flight info you sent?” so we’ve opted for a more streamlined approach. You can share a full itinerary which includes flight numbers, airports, Airbnb and hotel addresses, rental car details and more so your friends and family back home know your safe.
Wanderlog: A great user friendly, and fun app to leverage to explore new places. We love to synthesize recommendations from other travels and found Wanderlog does a great job in helping us discover hidden gems in new places we visit.
Google Maps Lists: We LOVE Google Maps to help organize favorited places during our travels. We create new lists for each location we travel to.
For Language
Duolingo: In preparation for visiting a new country, we love to use Duolingo to help get key phrases and pronunciation. Prior to visiting Mexico City we would practice 15-30 minutes daily (and while in CDMX) to keep our Spanish up.
Google Translate: When in doubt, Google Translate app can be a lifesaver. A few times during our international travels we’ve had to take photos of signs or menus to translate, and even had people speak into Translate app to communicate. Definitely worth a download!
For Lodging
Airbnb: For long term stays internationally and domestically, Airbnb is a great option for groups and solo travelers. We tend to use Airbnb if we will be staying somewhere for longer than 7 days.
The Landing: One of our favorite options for longer term stays (more than a month) has been The Landing. You pay a annual membership fee but can find fully furnished apartments across the US.
Hotel Tonight: This has come in handy during our roadtrips, where you don’t know exactly where you will be staying for the night or need somewhere to crash ASAP.
For Airport Ease
Clear: We splurged for Clear given our amount of travel which makes for essentially no lines when we get to airports. Bonus: Currently the AMEX Platinum card fully reimburses the cost of CLEAR. You can also get two months free here.
Lounge Buddy: If you’re into lounge hopping or travel hacking, we use Lounge Buddy to plan our airport days and typically don’t pay anything in food or drink costs while at the airport!
For Fun
Audible: Great option for walking, long drives, or flights. Audible has been a lifesaver to keep our education and learning while on the road.
Masterclass: For long flights or even long care rides, we love to download Masterclass episodes and learn a new skill.
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