The right apps can save you time and money on your next trip, and often improve the experience. But it’s not easy to know which apps are worth it.
TIME released its annual Top 50 iPhone and Android apps on Monday. Several apps are perfect for your next vacation: They can help you find the best deals on airfare, save on the perfect hotel, or help you stay in touch with friends back home.
These are the top six travel apps of the year, according to TIME.
WhatsApp
With WhatsApp, travelers can send messages and calls to friends and family abroad for free, as long as they have a data or Wi-Fi connection. The app allows users to send videos, messages, images and calls without paying high international fees.
A recent survey in April of this year showed that WhatsApp is the No. 1 messaging app in 55 percent of the world, according to Time magazine.
It’s free on Android and iOS.
Google Translate
Google Translate offers translation in 103 different languages, including offline access to 52 languages and the ability to automatically translate text in 29 languages using the phone’s camera.
The app received a number of updates this year that helped it make TIME’s list, including the Tap to Translate feature, which allows users to view automatic translations of text on the spot.
It’s free on Android and iOS.
Day 1
One of the best parts of traveling is being able to have souvenirs of your trip to look back on.
That’s where Day One comes in, providing travelers with a digital diary in which to record their journey. The app automatically backs up the user’s notes and includes photo elements to help you build a compelling travel diary.
4.99 USD for iOS.
Assassination List
Finding cheap flights can take some time, which is why Hitlist wants to help travelers find the best deals without having to sort through tons of flights.
In addition to accessing historical airfares and providing city guides for selected destinations, the app allows travelers to filter deals and receive regular email or flight push notifications.
Free on iOS.
Bitwise
Waze uses community-based traffic congestion data and road information to help drivers locate everything from the fastest route to the cheapest gas station in their area.
Thanks to the company’s recent installation of Waze Beacons, users can also access live maps via voice navigation and may soon be able to use Waze to get GPS in tunnels.
It’s free on Android and iOS.
Google Travel
Google’s new travel app uses users’ Gmail and Google Calendar accounts to collect travel information, including reservations and confirmations. The app also suggests nearby activities based on expert recommendations.
In addition, users can access these features offline, perfect for when Wi-Fi is not available.
It’s free on Android and iOS.
See the full list of TIME’s best apps of the year.
