Everything you need on your phone or tablet for hassle-free travelling

Writer: Co-operation partner

In our daily lives, most things run smoothly. We have routines that are adapted to the situations we find ourselves in and, in many cases, technical aids for the challenges and opportunities we regularly encounter. When we are travelling, many things don't work as usual. Here we look at which apps solve common problems when we are travelling.

Your existing apps may not work

Some apps you use at home may be unavailable in other countries due to geo-blocking, licence restrictions or technical requirements such as local SIM cards. To solve this, check the availability of apps before travelling. Also check if apps require internet and ensure wifi or roaming access. Test the apps in advance to avoid surprises.

Download local alternatives or offline versions, when possible. Games and other entertainment in particular can stop working when you cross a border. One of the reasons for why many people choose mga casino today is that they often accept players from several countries. They may also have a wider range of offerings than Swedish-licensed casinos.

The best travel apps of 2025

We provide examples of apps categorised by the problems they can help solve.

Easily accessible entertainment

Have you sighed over endless hours in an airport with nothing to do? Keeping yourself busy with books, games or films.

• Example: Kindle, Netflix, Spotify.
• Features and functions: e-book reading, casino games, streaming films and music, offline content.

Booking services

Have you been faced with a chaotic evening where all the accommodation is fully booked or the flights are very expensive? Make it easy to find and book flights, trains, buses or accommodation.

• ExampleBooking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, Skyscanner.
• Features and functions: Compare prices, book direct, manage cancellations flexibly.

Map services and navigation

Have you been wandering around a strange city without internet and an ancient paper map? Here are the apps that provide guidance in unfamiliar environments, even without connectivity, making them useful even when you travelling in Sweden.

• ExampleGoogle Maps, Citymapper, Maps.me.
• Features and functions: GPS, offline maps, public transport timetables.

Pages with user reviews

Have you wasted an evening in a restaurant that promised a lot but delivered lousy food? There are great services that offer insights from other travellers on quality and experiences.

• ExampleTripAdvisor, Yelp, Google Reviews.
• Features and functions: Ratings, reviews, user photos.

Transport and sharing services

Stuck on a deserted street with no taxi in sight when the clock is ticking? Here are the apps that provide flexible transport options in real time.

• ExampleUber, Bolt, Lyft.
• Features and functions: Fast booking, price estimation, shared travel.

International mobile payment solutions

Have you been cursing the sky-high exchange fees when paying abroad or the way you are used to handling payments doesn't work? These services make transactions abroad smooth and cost-effective.

• ExampleRevolut, Wise, PayPal, Apple Pay.
• Features and functions: Currency exchange, contactless payments, low fees.

Language and translation apps

Have you ever fumbled for words in front of an uncomprehending local who just shrugs? Language apps help to understand and talk to locals.

• Example: Google Translate, Duolingo, iTranslate.
• Features and functions: Real-time translation, voice recognition, offline mode.

Journey planning and route apps

Have you panicked looking for a booking confirmation in the middle of a busy airport? Here are the apps that organise bookings and create tailor-made itineraries.

• ExampleTripIt, Wanderlog, Sygic Travel.
• Features and functions: Collects tickets, daily plans, activity suggestions.

Currency exchange and budget apps

Have you realised that your travel budget has been blown due to unexpected currency costs? Equip yourself with tools to keep track of your budget and exchange rates.

• ExampleXE Currency, Trail Wallet, Trabee Pocket.
• Features and functions: Currency conversion, budget tracking, financial reports.

Safety and emergency apps

Have you ever felt lost and unsafe in an emergency far from home? Fortunately, there are apps and services that give you quick access to emergency services and safety info.

• ExampleGeoSure, Sitata, Red Cross First Aid.
• Features and functions: Local emergency numbers, safety assessments, health tips.

Local experiences and activity apps

Have you missed a hidden gem because you didn't know where to look? There are great services offering local tours, tips and events.

• Example: GetYourGuide, Viator, Klook.
• Features and functions: Booking of guided tours, tickets, local tips.

VPN services

Have you encountered frustrating blockages of your favourite apps on an unsecured Wi-Fi? VPN services secure internet connection and bypasses geo-blocks.

• ExampleNordVPN, ExpressVPN, Surfshark.
• Features and functions: Encrypted connection, access to regional content, anonymity.

Free vs. paid apps

Free apps like Google Maps or XE Currency offer basic features, but may have adverts or restrictions, like offline access. Paid apps, such as Citymapper Plus or Revolut Premium, often provide more features, like detailed itineraries or lower currency exchange fees.

Many paid apps, such as NordVPN or Spotify Premium, offer free trials that often cover the duration of a trip. Try these out before departure to maximise value without long-term costs. Always check the terms and conditions of trial periods.