Everyone who travels knows that there’s a risk of ending up with a few hours of internet downtime in a foreign country. This can happen when:

  • You aren’t able to get a local SIM card or have issues with your internet roaming.
  • The internet connection in your destination is extremely spotty or even non-existent.
  • The local laws require you to go through a lengthy registration process before you can activate your SIM, which can take up to a few days.

In the meantime, you still need some crucial information in order to get around and navigate a strange place. The good news is, there are apps that can work even without internet connection. Here are some of the most useful offline travel apps you can download today.

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Travel Apps to Use Even When You Don’t Have Data

Offline Travel Apps

Usage

Available on

Google Maps

Maps

Android

iTunes

TripIt

Planner

Android

IOS

XE Currency

Finance/Currency

Android

IOS

America Red Cross First Aid

Medical

Android

IOS

Triposo

Planner

Android

IOS

Google Translate

Translation

Android

iTunes

Here We Go

Maps

Android

IOS

Tripadvisor

Planner

Android

IOS

 


1. Google Maps

navigation
Image credit: Pixabay

All Android phones will already have this app downloaded as part of the core apps. Google Maps is able to show you the best way to get to any location from your current one. It functions using GPS and doesn’t need a constant data connection to chart routes and point out locations. It can also locate where you currently are.

This app definitely comes in handy if you’re going off the beaten track, where you may get lost and won’t have the internet to help. For iPhone users, you don’t have to worry because you can download Google Maps from iTunes and use it too.

 

2. XE Currency

screengrab of XE currency app
Image credit: XE Currency website

This is an absolute must-have app whenever you go out shopping. It updates the currency exchange rates whenever your phone gets a connection, and then uses these rates to convert currencies. This helps you get an estimate of the prices of goods and services wherever you are in the world. Even if you don’t have a connection for several days, the app will save the last updated rates and function even in remote areas.

3. TripIt

Screengrab TripIt ad
Image credit: TripIt Website

TripIt is basically an organizer that will keep all the details of your bookings and help you keep track of them. These include flights, hotel bookings, car rentals, restaurant reservations and the like. Just give a copy of your bookings to TripIt, and the app will convert it into a daily schedule. This means the app will let you know when you need to show up at airports, car rental offices and when you need to check out of hotels. All these dates and times will be displayed clearly, and you can still access this schedule without an internet connection.

4.  American Red Cross First Aid Guide

red cross first aid app
Image credit: iTunes

This app is handy for those who travel alone and into remote areas. It’s basically a modern, user-friendly app that allows you instant access to basic first aid for injuries, allergies, insect bites and more. This app is completely free and can be used offline as all the information files are saved onto your phone.

5. Triposo

screengrab Triposo app
Image credit: iTunes

If you can only have one app on your phone when you travel, this should be it. Triposo is an aggregator app that scours the internet for reviews on restaurants, hotels, attractions, airports, and activities around the world. Once you’re in a location, you can look Triposo up on what to do, where to eat and where to stay. It is fully functional offline and the database updates whenever you can get a few minutes of internet connection.

You’ll be able to plan your trip in the best way without even worrying about data.

6. Google Translate

Screengrab Google Translate
Image credit: iTunes

Google Translate is a must in countries where you don’t speak or read the local language. Although most countries have English speakers in urban areas, this app will definitely come in handy if you’re out in more rustic settings. It also comes in handy for translating road signs and other signages. The offline version is able to translate languages if you download the language pack. Be sure to download the language pack of your choice before you go offline. Instructions can be found at the Google Translate site (https://support.google.com/translate/answer/6142473?hl=en&ref_topic=7011755)

7. Here We Go

This map app makes city navigation effortless and allows you to download maps so you can use them while offline. With detailed routes, turn-by-turn guidance and information about every way of getting around, it is a great alternative to Google Maps.

8. Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor doesn’t need an introduction. Its app works offline allowing you to save your favourite places, attractions, restaurants, etc so you can easily refer to its information while you are in destination.

 


Your phone can be a useful and powerful tool when you travel. It can even save your life in emergencies and time of crisis. More importantly, you can plan your trip with just a smartphone. It’s really easy now with all the online booking and trip planning apps available. If you often use apps like Agoda, Klook, Expedia and more, use these travel promo coupons to sweeten deals by bringing in discounts and free gifts.

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