If you’re anything like me, your love for travel kicks into overdrive the moment a trip is on the horizon. Suddenly you’re deep in planning mode, comparing destinations, checking dates, stalking flights, and convincing yourself you definitely need another holiday.
I’ve been lucky enough to experience travel in both the “dinosaur age” and the modern, app-obsessed era. I still remember navigating with road maps that looked like they were drawn by a confused chicken, and now here we are, with an app for literally everything. Honestly, shoutout to technology and the Gen Zs for making life (and travel) so much easier.
To save you time, stress, and a whole lot of unnecessary Googling, I’ve rounded up a mix of my favourite travel apps, some I personally use on every trip and some I’ve tested and reviewed along the way. Whether you’re planning your first getaway or you’re already living that wanderlust life, these apps will make your travels smoother, smarter, and way more exciting.
Wanderlog
Wanderlog is a free travel app (with an optional Pro subscription) that helps you plan pretty much every kind of trip, from road trips to group getaways and everything in between.
Now, you’re either a list person or you’re not, and I am definitely a list person. There is something deeply satisfying about ticking things off and feeling like your life is lowkey together. Before finding this app, I was using the Notes app on my phone for everything, packing lists, places to visit, budgets, food spots, random ideas, and honestly, the list could go on forever. So you can imagine my excitement when I discovered an app that does all of that in one place.
You can download Wanderlog on iOS and Android, and you can also log in from your laptop or PC, which makes planning on a bigger screen so much easier, especially if you’re planning a longer or more detailed trip.
Free Plan
- Import flight and hotel reservations
- Collaborate with friends in real-time
- Expense tracking and splitting
- Checklists for anything
- Get personalized suggestions
My Take
So I gave this all-in-one app a proper test run on my last trip to Zanzibar, and so far, so good. It’s efficient, easy to use, and does pretty much everything you need for trip planning. You could definitely get away with the free plan if you’re not the type to micro-manage every detail of your itinerary.
That said, the Pro plan does come with a few features I actually care about, especially offline access, which would have been so handy while I was in Zanzibar. I’m currently using the free version again to plan my next trip, adding all my must-sees, places of interest, and rough budgets. And once the trip gets closer, I’ll most likely switch over to the Pro plan so I have everything available on the go.
Pro Plan
- Optimize your route (perfect for road trips and busy days)
- Offline access
- Flight and car rental deals
- Unlimited attachments
- Automatic Gmail Scanning
- Export to Google Maps
- Unlimited AI assistance
- Dark Mode
- Chrome extension map
Roamless
Roamless is a pay-as-you-go travel internet and calls app, and honestly, this one hit a little close to home for me.
On my last trip to Zanzibar, we decided not to buy a local SIM card because we were spending most of our time at the resort and didn’t think we’d need it that much. Big mistake. We ended up going to Stone Town twice, and both times I was desperately trying to score free WiFi wherever I could. I even had to ask locals to use their phones just so I could get hold of our driver.
I was basically offline for most of the day, stressed out of my mind, and to make things worse, I had a sick kid back home, so not being reachable was giving me serious anxiety.
So when an ad for Roamless popped up on my feed, I genuinely felt like it was a sign. One of those “where were you when I needed you?” moments. This is exactly the kind of app I wish I had downloaded before that trip.
Oh, and it’s available for download on both iOS and Android, which makes it an easy win for pretty much any traveller.
How It Works
Once you’ve downloaded the app and created your account, you simply activate your eSIM (this only needs to be done once). Then you add funds to your account and voilà, you’re good to go.
The eSIM works in over 165 countries, and the best part is that your funds never expire, so you can use them again and again for future trips. It’s basically one less thing to stress about when you’re travelling, and honestly, anything that makes travel easier gets a yes from me.
Why Roamless Is Simply Better
- Stay connected – It works everywhere, so upload those pics on the go, update the fam, stay reachable, use maps etc
- Funds never expire – Just use what you need and keep the rest for the next trip.
- Data and Calls – The app allows for international calls and data.
- Free App – The app is free to download and all you have to do is top up your account. No free and pro versions.
PackPoint
I’m the type of packer who falls into one of two categories: I either pack the night before and forget something important, or I pack weeks in advance, leave my suitcase open in the living room, and slowly throw things in as the trip gets closer. There is no in-between.
And of course, we travel with my 9 year old son, who somehow needs everything under the sun just to leave the house, never mind go on holiday. So if this sounds even remotely like you, then it might be time to work smarter and not harder. This is where this packing app comes in, and honestly, it’s a bit of a lifesaver.
Like most travel apps, it’s available for download on both iOS and Android.
What's The Point
PackPoint is a premium packing list organiser for serious travel pros, or honestly, for anyone who’s tired of arriving at their destination and realising they forgot something important (we’ve all been there).
This app helps you organise exactly what you need to pack in your luggage based on the length of your trip, the weather at your destination, and any activities you’ve planned. So whether you’re going on a beach holiday, a city break, or a full-on adventure, PackPoint basically does the thinking for you.
It’s perfect if you’re a chronic overpacker, an underpacker, or just someone who wants to feel slightly more put together when travelling.
Do You Need It
While this app may not be essential, it’s definitely a helpful tool if you live a busy life, have multiple kids, and often find yourself panic-packing at the last minute. It’s great for reminding you about the basics we all tend to forget, like sunblock, chargers, or that one thing you swore you packed.
It also gives you packing suggestions based on your trip type and destination, which will be more than enough for some travellers. However, if you’re looking for a super personalised experience on the free version, like adding your green sequinned hat to the list or very specific activities, you might be better off sticking to the good old pen and paper or a simple notes app.
That said, the paid version does unlock a few extra features that could be useful:
Connect to TripIt – Sign in to TripIt and automatically generate packing lists based on your travel plans.
Customise PackPoint – Add your own activities and items to create a list that fits your exact needs.
Share your packing list – Easily share your list with fellow travellers so everyone knows what to pack.
So, do you really need it? Maybe. It all depends on how often you travel, how much you usually pack, and the kind of trips you’re planning. For me, the free version does the job, it’s more of a nice-to-have than a must-have, but still a handy little travel tool to keep in your back pocket.
Website: https://www.packpnt.com/
Priority Pass
If there’s one travel app you absolutely need, it’s this one. Say goodbye to sitting on uncomfortable airport chairs by your gate, those days are officially over.
Most airports have lounges run by different companies, including airlines and even banks. Whether or not you get access to these little pockets of luxury usually depends on your ticket, your credit card, or some kind of membership.
That’s where Priority Pass comes in. With a membership, you get access to over 1,700 airport lounges worldwide, whether you’re flying locally or internationally. Think complimentary food and drinks, free Wi-Fi, comfy seating, charging stations, and in some lounges, even showers.
It’s honestly one of the easiest ways to upgrade your travel experience and start your trip feeling relaxed instead of stressed. Once you experience airport lounges, there’s really no going back.
Priority Access
Priority Pass gives you access to airport lounges all over the world, but the way you get in depends on how you signed up and what type of membership you have.
Once you’re a member, you simply open the app, search for the airport you’re flying from, and it will show you a list of available lounges. Each lounge listing includes details like location, opening hours, facilities, and any entry rules you need to know before you go.
At the lounge, you just present your digital card from the app or your physical Priority Pass card along with your boarding pass, and you’re in. No complicated process, no awkward conversations, just straight into comfort mode.
What You Actually Get with Priority Pass
One of the best things about Priority Pass is that it’s not just about airport lounges anymore. The app gives you access to a whole range of travel perks and experiences that make airport time way more enjoyable.
- Find and Save Lounges
- Navigate Major Airports
- Track Your Visits
- Pre-Book Lounges
- Restaurant credits – If no lounge available
- Spa Treatments
- Gaming & Entertainment
- Airport Transfers
- Car Rentals
- On-Demand Workspaces
For me, this is what makes Priority Pass so powerful, it doesn’t matter which airline you’re flying with or what class your ticket is in. As long as there’s a participating lounge at your airport and you have a valid membership, you get to skip the chaos and enjoy the calm.
Memberships Which One Do You Need?
Not all Priority Pass memberships are the same, and the level of access you get depends on which plan you’re on (or which credit card you have).
There are generally three main types of memberships:
Standard Membership
This is the entry-level option. You pay an annual fee, and then you pay a small fee each time you visit a lounge. It’s great if you only travel occasionally but still want the option of lounge access when you need it.
Standard Plus Membership
This plan includes a set number of free lounge visits per year, and after that, additional visits are charged at a reduced rate. This is a good middle ground if you travel a few times a year and want better value.
Prestige Membership
This is the top-tier option and comes with unlimited lounge access for the year. No per-visit fees, just show up and enjoy. This is ideal for frequent travellers or anyone who basically lives at the airport.
Top tip: Many premium credit cards include Priority Pass for free, so it’s always worth checking your bank benefits before paying for a membership. You might already have access and not even know it.
Website: https://www.prioritypass.com/
izi.TRAVEL – Your Personal Tour Guide in Your Pocket
Sometimes when I travel, I don’t always book tour guides because I’m very much a let me wander and see where I end up kind of girl. I love exploring at my own pace, getting lost on purpose, and pretending I’m in my own little travel movie.
But here’s the thing, I’m also nosy. I want the backstory. I want to know why this building looks important, who lived here, what happened here, and all the random facts I can casually drop later like I knew it all along.
So I always wished there was something that let me explore freely and fed me the good info without someone rushing me from stop to stop.
And then… I found this app.
And yes, it’s available on both the Play Store and iOS, so no one’s left out.
The best part? You can download the tours and listen offline, which is perfect if you don’t have data, you’re in a new country, or you’re just trying to avoid roaming costs. (We love a budget queen moment.)
Free vibes or paid perks? Let’s break it down
The good news is, the app is mostly free, which we love. You can access a huge number of audio tours without paying anything, and for most casual travellers, the free version is more than enough.
That said, some premium or more in-depth tours may require a small fee, especially for popular attractions or specialised experiences. Think of it like this, you get plenty for free, and then you have the option to upgrade if you want something a little more detailed or exclusive.
Personally, I love that you can try it properly without committing to a subscription straight away. It’s one of those apps where you can download it, test it out on a trip, and then decide if it’s worth spending money on based on how much you actually use it.
So if you’re a budget traveller (or just like free things, same), this one’s definitely worth adding to your travel app collection.
A Travel Bestie in Your Ear
At the end of the day, it just makes travelling feel easier and more fun. You’re not stuck in a big group, you’re not rushing from stop to stop, and you’re not missing out on the stories either. It’s literally like having a little travel bestie in your ear, giving you the tea about each place while you wander around doing your own thing. And honestly, that’s exactly how I like to travel.
Website: https://izi.travel/en
Travel Smarter: How Wise Handles Your Money
Wise isn’t just another banking app, it’s actually built for people who travel, send money abroad, or want their holiday budget to stretch a little further.
Here’s what it does (in real‑world terms, not financial jargon that makes your eyes glaze over):
Wise: Your Travel Money BFF 💳
Money stuff on holiday can be stressful, especially when your hubby is the money manager and you trust him to handle it. On our trip to Bali, everything looked so cheap and we thought we were living our best life, but by the end of the trip, we realised it actually added up way faster than expected. Suddenly those cute little snacks, souvenirs, and extra coffees were hitting our budget harder than we planned.
That is why I am so excited to start using Wise, basically your travel money bestie. From what I’ve seen, it helps you move money, compare exchange rates, and keep your budget in check while travelling. It seems perfect for avoiding those surprise fees that sneak up on you and make a “cheap trip” feel unexpectedly expensive. The best part? It works for us South Africans too, so you can finally stop stressing and actually enjoy that beach cocktail or street food adventure.
Website: https://wise.com/
Proper Exchange Rates
Most banks and airport exchange counters mark up the rate so you end up paying more without even noticing. Wise uses the real mid-market exchange rate, the one you see on Google, so you are not losing money to hidden fees that surprise you later.
Low and Transparent Fees
You always see exactly what you are paying before you confirm anything. No mystery charges that make you go, Wait, where did that extra R300 come from?
Hold Multiple Currencies
You can hold money in different currencies at the same time. So if you are travelling through a few countries or sending money home or abroad, it is all in one place and easy to manage.
Fast Transfers
Transfers usually happen quickly, meaning you do not have to wait around for days hoping the money actually arrives. That is peace of mind when you have airport layovers and itineraries to sort through.
Budget Control
You can see your balance, recent transactions, and how much you have spent in each currency in the app. That is such a good feeling when you are trying not to accidentally eat your budget with too many ice creams.
Works for South Africans
Wise recently got official approval in South Africa, which means it is a legal and safe way for us to send and manage money internationally. There are a few quirks compared with some other countries, like Wise cards not being officially issued here yet, but the main benefits of better exchange rates and lower fees still apply.
No more accidental overspending for me, acting like I didn’t even know what was happening, and uurrg, why did I even have to show hubby this app?
Google Translate: Your Travel Language Lifesaver 🌍
I know I probably take this for granted, but I am pretty sure Google Translate makes sense on any trip where your first language or English is not widely spoken. I absolutely love getting lost on backroads, exploring small towns, and wandering down hidden nooks and crannies, and guess what? I usually end up sign language-ing my way out of situations. Try taking the wrong bus in a remote town in Italy and you will see exactly what I mean.
That is where Google Translate comes in. Whether you are chatting with locals, figuring out menus, or decoding mysterious signs, this little app has your back. And the best part is you can even download languages to use offline, which is perfect if you are avoiding roaming charges or just want to stay in full explorer mode.
It is super easy to use, it’s free, LOL, and I even use it to translate my son’s Afrikaans homework right here at home.
That is where Google Translate comes in. Whether you are chatting with locals, figuring out menus, or decoding mysterious signs, this little app has your back. And the best part is you can even download languages to use offline, which is perfect if you are avoiding roaming charges or just want to stay in full explorer mode.
Website: https://translate.google.com/
Uber: Keeping Your Adventures Moving🚗
Uber is available in most tourist-friendly countries and towns, but not always, and it can sometimes be expensive. My advice is to check if there are cheaper local alternatives in the country you are visiting. For example, in Indonesia we used Gojek, which was amazing, and they even have bike options that are super fun and efficient.
If there are no affordable alternatives, public transport can work too, but always make sure safety comes first. Uber is great for those moments when you need a quick ride, don’t want to stress about finding the right bus, or are carrying luggage, kids, or just need a little break from walking. It keeps your adventures moving without too much hassle.
Indonesia: Gojek or Grab – scooters, bikes, cars, and even food delivery. Perfect for zipping through traffic.
India: Ola – works in most major cities and often cheaper than Uber.
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore): Grab – similar to Uber, widely used and reliable.
Mexico & Central America: Didi – sometimes cheaper than Uber, works in bigger cities.
China: DiDi Chuxing – Uber exists only in select cities, so this is the go-to.
Europe (some countries): Bolt – often cheaper than Uber in countries like Estonia, Spain, Portugal, and others.
South America: Cabify – popular in countries like Colombia, Peru, and Chile.
Website: https://www.uber.com/za/en/
Last Words From Your Travel Girl
There you have it, wanderlusters, my top travel apps that make every trip easier, smoother, and way more fun. From planning every detail with Wanderlog, staying connected with Roamless, packing like a pro with PackPoint, flying in comfort with Priority Pass, exploring at your own pace with guided tours, managing your money with Wise, to translating languages with Google Translate and getting around with Uber, these apps really cover all the bases.
Of course, not every app is essential for everyone, but having these in your pocket means less stress, more adventure, and more time actually enjoying the trip instead of worrying about the little things. My advice? Try a few, see what works for your style, and keep the rest in your back pocket for when you need them. Trust me, your future travel-self will thank you.
