In a world where everyone is attached to their mobile devices, and Instagram is the standard against which our coolness is measured, the app has become a very powerful thing.
From navigation, social media, travel and accommodation apps, to storing documents and boarding passes or simply staying in touch with those back home, Aussies are addicted to apps when heading overseas.
And when Roy Morgan Research backs it up, you know it’s serious, with recent surveys showing over 50% of all Aussie mobile phone users agree you “need a mobile phone overseas.”
“Apps are going gangbusters,” Roy Morgan’s ceo Michele Levine said.
“Social media is a driving force, and TripAdvisor is becoming almost mainstream. It’s becoming really hard just to keep up.”
So in the spirit of keeping up, and keeping you updated, here are five fresh apps you need when travelling:
Plan: XE Currency
Why: It didn’t get downloaded more than five million times for no good reason. Unlike many currency conversion apps, it is easy to use and more importantly it applies LIVE currency rates.
Food: Zomato
Why: Gone are the days of tirelessly wandering unfamiliar streets only to find a sub-par, overpriced meal. Explore the foreign food scene in over 22 countries with Zomato; learn a wealth of local food knowledge, eat where the locals eat and find hidden gems at the tap of an app.
Explore: Pin Drop
Why: Ditch your itinerary and get spontaneous! This fabulous app allows you to drop GPS pins onto a map and browse lists of user-generated recommendations on the hidden gems in the town.
Communicate: Wi-Fi Finder
Why: Do we really need to give a reason? Anyone who has received a data roaming bill and nearly had a heart attack, this app is for you. Simply follow directions to your nearest source of wireless internet suggested by the app, you will sure dodge a laughable bill.
Book: WorldMate
Why: Essentially, this app is your personal assistant on the go. Forward your various confirmation emails for flights/hotels and more to trips@worldmate.com and it will generate an itinerary covering your entire trip. Too easy. Did we mention it’s also free?
