Last updated: . Clarified dated app availability, booking and reward terms, ride services, VPN limitations and supporting travel resources while preserving the family’s recommendations and experiences. Date information added October 31, 2026.
Originally published in December 2021, this guide reflects the apps and experiences described at that time. Availability, features, prices, rewards, and terms can vary by destination, account, and booking; check each provider’s current details before relying on them.
If you are looking to travel abroad and experience a new country, there are some tips you should know. Our family has traveled to more than 25 countries with our five kids. Some of the most helpful tools we’ve discovered throughout our travels are the apps on our phones. Many people travel unaware of the help their device can offer.
If you want to simplify your international travels, keep reading for a run-down on our favorite travel apps.
Airbnb. We’ve used Airbnb around the world, in every continent besides Africa (as we haven’t been there yet!) Depending on the size of your group and the experience you want, we highly suggest looking into Airbnb for your accommodation needs. See this post for more information on the pros/cons and “how-to’s” of Airbnb for family travel.
*Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Opinions shared are my own, and I only endorse products I support. By clicking on any of the links below, I may get a small commission if you purchase at absolutely no additional charge to you. I appreciate your support.*
Booking.com. If we opt not to use Airbnb, Booking.com is definitely my favorite app for booking hotels. Booking.com allows you to search for hotels and short-term rentals; cancellation rules depend on the property and selected rate. Within the app you can also search for rental cars, flights, and taxis. Check the listing’s current terms before booking.
Expedia. Honestly, this is not my favorite app. However, we can get some excellent deals sometimes because we’ve used it for several years. Promotions, rewards, and eligibility can vary by region, account, and booking; check current terms. We typically use Expedia for rental cars, but we occasionally use it for lodging and flights.
For Booking Flights
Google Flights. Google Flights has been our favorite tool for shopping flights for quite some time. Pay attention to the calendar feature to compare flight prices by date.
Skyscanner.This is our second favorite because you can select “anywhere” as your destination. Just input a starting location and explore the best deals worldwide. You can also find hotels and activities within the app, so it’s a very convenient option.
For International Transportation
Uber. We use Uber in most countries that we visit. Availability and ride options vary by city; check the app for your destination before relying on it.
Free Now. Free Now is another ride-share option to consider in Europe. Its service area and available rides vary by city, so check its current coverage.
Grab. Grab offers services in participating Southeast Asian locations; availability and ride options vary by city. It works similarly to Uber.
Google Maps. We love Google Maps because you can compare several different transportation options within the app. Simply input your destination, and Google Maps will show you directions for walking, biking, driving, and public transportation.
Apple Maps. If you have an Apple iPhone, be sure Apple Maps is downloaded. Depending on your country, it can sometimes work better than Google Maps and vice versa.
For International Communication
WhatsApp. If you download nothing else from this list, WhatsApp is a MUST to have internationally. Its availability and whether your contacts use it can vary by destination. Check your mobile provider’s current rates for international calls and texts before traveling.
If you are traveling to China, download and set up WeChatbefore you go. This is their messaging, social media, and mobile payment app.
Facebook Messenger. A bit old-school, but still used in many places. During the Covid lockdown, this is how we ordered takeout in New Zealand!
For Travel Food
Uber Eats. If our hotel doesn’t offer breakfast or we haven’t made it to a store to stock our Airbnb, we frequently order Uber Eats for the hungry kids. We are known to be slow to get out of bed! Haha. There are many local food-delivery apps; availability and restaurant options vary by location. Check whether Uber Eats serves your destination.
TripAdvisor. You can find restaurants, tours, and hotels on TripAdvisor, along with traveler reviews.
Other Helpful Apps for International Travel
Express VPN. A VPN routes internet traffic through a VPN server, but it does not guarantee a safe connection or access to any particular website or service. Sometimes we even use the app to switch up our IP address and compare flight costs! Comparing prices this way does not guarantee savings.
Chrome. If you aren’t a Chrome fan, you don’t need to convert, but at least download it. Some websites may work differently across browsers; check a site’s current requirements before relying on a particular browser.
Google Translate. This app is absolutely invaluable! It will facilitate communication and come in handy more than you can imagine. You can use the camera feature to try and read signs or labels; the dictation feature is decent at communicating with someone else and more. We use this app daily when traveling! Again, be sure this is downloaded before your travels.
TripAdvisor. As mentioned above, this is a great resource, no matter where you are at. You can plan your entire trip using the forum. Book flights and hotels, find out where to eat, what to do, how to do it, and reviews of the experience. It is extremely valuable.
PayPal. In a pinch, if we are low on cash, we’ve used PayPal to pay our tour guides and other vendors.
Booking.com. Program benefits and eligibility vary; check current terms. If you are interested in a flight-and-accommodation bundle, confirm current availability and details.
Skyscanner. We love the “anywhere” feature to see where it is cheap to fly to.
Kiwi.com. Itineraries may include connections on different airlines. Review the itinerary and the booking’s current change and assistance terms before purchasing.
Expedia. We have used Expedia for flights with different airlines. Rewards, offers, and prices vary by region, account, and booking; compare current terms and the final price.
These platforms allow you to put in the dates and locations and allow you to book top activities in the area straight from the site.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
As a large, full-time traveling family, travel insurance is a must for us. It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance in case something goes wrong. We love World Nomads for our travel insurance. Eligibility and policy options vary by residence and product. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states, or provinces; carefully read current policy wording for a full description of coverage.
TRAVEL NECESSITIES:
For a comprehensive list of all the 7 Wayfinders Travel Must-Haves, ClickHere.
Tip: If you are making an online purchase (airline tickets, hotels, clothing…basically anything you can imagine), consider checking Rakuten for a current offer. Cashback rates and eligible stores vary; check current terms before purchase. On mobile, you can use the app; on desktop, open a browser and search for the store before shopping. For us, it’s a no-brainer.
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