We all know travelling can be stressful and expensive, but it doesn’t have to be.

There’s a world of apps out there to help make any trip smoother, and cheaper. Want to know which ones do the best job? Then read on. 

With these tried and tested recommendations you’ll save both time and money on everything you need for an awesome vacation – from planning and packing, to getting there and getting around, we’ve got you covered.

Hopper

Before you even book your flights, you’re going to want to check Hopper app. Track changes in flight prices and find the best time to buy with their easy-to-follow guidance.

First up, a color-coded calendar shows you when its usually cheapest to travel to the destination you’re looking at.

Then you can opt to ‘watch’ flights and you’ll get notified of any price drops, as well as being told when they’re most likely to cost more again.

Plus, if you don’t mind the few dollars commission, you can even purchase right there on the app.

Booking.com 

There’s lots you can compare on Booking.com, flights, airport taxis, car rental and some attractions but its best use, by far, is for accommodation.

You’ll find great rooms all over the world for any style and any price range. Search by location and narrow it down so you’re as near or far as you’d like to be from the center of the action.

One of the best things about Booking.com is their loyalty program. With their Genius Club you can get a range of discounts and deals, which can make it make it a great money saver. Time to get booking! 

Go City

Flights and accommodation sorted? Now it’s time for the best bit, activities!

Go City, is a must if you’re visiting one of their 30+ destinations, from world favorite capitals like London, Paris and New York to beachy paradises like Oahu and Cancun. 

You’ll find top attractions, bucket list experiences and a curated selection of tours, all on one handy digital pass. Plus, it works out as cheaper than buying all your tickets separately.

Learn about attractions, find out about opening times and how to get there, then just show up with your pass and enjoy! 

These passes always include top attractions – think Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles, and the Empire State Building in New York – but they’ll also help you discover a city’s hidden gems, which are selected by their local experts.

Make sure to look out for their Pass Perks too – skip the line, free guidebooks and shop discounts are just a few of the things on offer at some attractions. 

PackPoint

Whether you’re the type to run around searching for everything five minutes before you leave the house, or have your bag zipped up by the door two days before you go, PackPoint will make sure you don’t leave behind anything essential.

Some tourist hotspots can be pretty pricey so you’ll save money by making sure you bring anything you’ll need in your suitcase.

Enter your destination, when you’ll be there, how long you’re away for and any activities you’re doing that might need any extra kit (think swimming, cycling etc).

Then PackPoint will give you a customized check list you can use and save for future use too. It’ll even check the weather to make sure you’re not caught without the sunblock.  

GlobeTips

Did you know that in China, Japan and South Korea, its actually considered impolite to leave a tip at a restaurant?

GlobeTips will ensure you never make that mistake or pay any more than you should.

Find out who and how much to tip in over 200 countries with this useful app.

It even has a helpful calculator, so all you need to do is put the bill total in and it’ll tell you a standard, fair tip based on your location – it’ll even sort out dividing up the cheque if you’re with a group. 

Uber

Most cities have a few cab app options, but the convenience of Uber makes this app a winner.

You’ll usually pay less than you would for a local taxi and won’t need to worry about having the correct amount of any local currency.

And with Uber’s security features you can feel confident as you get safely from A to B. No haggling, no scrabbling for change and no awkward broken language chats – perfect. 

CityMapper

Like Uber, CityMapper is a city-break must have. Want to navigate on foot? Or on local public transport? Then this app is a keeper.

CityMapper will help you find the fastest route to your destination and give you all the different ways to get there.

You’ll get real time updates and accurate departure times for the public transport options, so you know where to be and when.

It also provides easy to read breakdowns of any disruption which might affect your journey.

Plus, every suggestion has the price so you can make the best choice for your budget.

Now you’re all set to save time and money on your next sightseeing adventure – bon voyage!