My recent purchase of an iPod Touch for use during extended travel might turn out to be the best purchase I have made thus far, and most certainly the best gadget to come along for travelers since the laptop computer. While the technological connectedness that an iPod or iPhone provides may turn off some travelers who want to get away from it all when traveling, I've come to appreciate the convenience that a centrally located and easily accessible tool box of application provides - and does Apple have such a toolbox with hundreds of thousands for download! Granted, 99.9% of these are crap and are not worth someones time, and some cases, money, but the few that are worth the common traveler's time make all the difference.
I have compiled a comprehensive list of all free iPod and iPhone applications that should be in any traveler's arsenal. In an effort to keep budget conscious travelers in mind, every application in this list will be focused on the free product available in the App Store. While most of these products have premium versions for purchase, in most instances the free version covers enough features suitable for the standard traveler! Since writing this post, I have purchased a few games that were incredibly cheap (aka $0.99). The free version is a suitable alternative for those who want to have quick fun, and is noted accordingly.
This list will be continually updated as I discover more useful tools that should accompany all travelers while exploring the world (accessible via the iPhone Applications categories link on the sidebar). Some are travel related, some focus purely on social networking and keeping in contact with home while away, and others are down right fun and great time wasters. Check through the following list and descriptions to see which ones you are missing and download them immediately!
In-depth reviews of select applications through the title links that will be added over time as a new feature on the website, so check back for reviews of the following applications! Applications denoted with * indicate internet is required for most functions. Some of these applications have features available without internet, but the primary use requires a wi-fi connection or data plan for use.
Planning and Booking Services
XE Currency* - The XE Currency app updates real time exchange rates streaming from the site XE.com for all currencies around the world. Get your exchange rates at the touch of a button.
Kayak* - My personal favorite airline booking engine for finding the most itineraries and best deals, the Kayak app is a mobile version of the same software with full search features.
Hostelworld* - The app version of Hostelworld.com with hostel searches, bookings, reviews, and pictures just like the real site.
TripAdvisor* - More hotel and site reviews in a comparable app version to the full Tripadvisor.com website!
Urbanspoon* - A great application from Urbanspoon.com which gives aggregated restaurant reviews, menus, and locations for thousands of restaurants. So far, this application is populated with restaurants in the USA, Canada, and the UK, as well as some of Australia only.
Social Networking and Connecting with Home
Facebook* - Most every feature from Facebook is offered in this application, and makes for quick updates and wall posts with friends while on the road.
Twitter* - Like the Facebook app, the Twitter application is a mini version of the full website, allowing tweets and conversations in all topics, like #rtwnow! I'll be tweeting a lot more when I find random wi-fi hotspots around the world from this app for sure.
Skype* - The Skype application was one of the largest driving factors for me to purchase the portable iPod Touch (which come with microphones in the 32GB and larger models). Just like the computer based program, you can chat with friends via text and voice conversations just like a regular cell phone, all for free.
AIM Free* and Y! Messenger* - Mini versions of the computer programs used by millions of people to chat via instant messages when online. I doubt I will use these a lot while on the road, primarily for all the blogging and Skype conversations that will be going on, but they are likely to get some use along the way anyway.
TextNow Lite*- The TextNow application transforms your iPod and iPhone into a free text message sending and receiving device when near any Wi-Fi hotspot. Within the app you can create an email address to send texts to mobile numbers anywhere in the world. Limited to approximately 30 per day in the free version!
Translation Software
Translator by Codesign*
myLanguage*
iTranslate*
Translator*
iPronunciation*
The preceding software packages all use internet based translation packages for quick on the go phrase translations when near a Wi-Fi hotspot for your burning conversation needs. The downside to all of these applications is that Wi-Fi hotspots are likely never in the same place when a quick translation is needed. But they will be great to have if the stars align at the right moment and wireless is available. In the near future I will be comparing these 5 apps and choosing the best application for those who do not want 5 unique translation programs cluttering their app lists.
World Nomads Japanese/Mandarin/Vietnamese/[Insert Language Here]
The World Nomads packages were recommended to me by Dustin over at Skinny Backpacker, and I have been pleasantly happy with their free downloads. Unlike the translation software above, the World Nomads apps are more like language learning tools and have basic phrases organized by type in concise offline packages. While only a few languages are available now, many on my own personal RTW trip are available, and I will be learning a few phrases from them as a result. These apps are so good that I am tempted into purchasing the full versions as support of the product.
Useful Tools
Flashlight - A basic but effective application that turns every pixel to their brightest output for a mini flashlight. Not bright enough to blind someone, but enough to illuminate a small space in a hostel without waking up sleeping roommates.
Alarm Clock - Many alarm clock applications exist, and all of them do the same thing, but programmable alarm clocks in the application toolbox is nice to have. Unfortunately, the device must be within sleep mode to use, and eats up battery life overnight, so this feature may be more detrimental than useful in most situations.
Free Wi-Fi Locator* - This feature has both an online and offline mode with accessible databases, although the online mode will instantly search for free Wi-Fi locations in the city you are in with one click. Even though many sites are updated continually, over 200,000 spots have already been identified.
Convert Units - A basic unit converter that allows for easy comparison between all units of measure. I would have loved to have this application on hand while completing my engineering degree before they became ingrained in my mind, but are useful on the go for those who are not as broken as I am.
Having Fun While Bored
Google Earth - The mobile application of Google Earth, great for zooming in and out on locations you want to visit. A bit of a learning curve to get used to the controls with finger touches rather than a mouse, though.
BubbleWrap- The Bubble Wrap game is a timed game of popping bubble wrap. Pure and simple.
Pandora*- I am a big fan of Pandora.com on my computer, which allows you to search music channels based off artist to listen to a streaming mix of songs within that particular artists style. The mobile app is exactly the same, and one of my favorites when I'm tired of listening to my own music.
FingerLite - FingerLite is an electronic piano with some playable by aid songs such as Fur Elise programmed in. I'd love more songs in the free version, but I'll take what I can get. Other comparable programs have other songs for those who want a larger collection
Drum Kit Lite - As the name implies, a full drum kit is at your disposal in this app for some random finger beatings.
MyGuitar - Although not as well thought out (and I am searching for better substitutes), my guitar allows for strumming of 3 chords in random combination for some musical beats.
Mood Pad - The days of color changing items are at a return with the mood pad, as the degree of pressure from your fingerprint (or contact time, maybe?) changes the color on the screen accordingly in some neat designs.
iColoring Book Lite - Let your inner 5 year old out with this coloring book application for a great 5 minute time killer
Finger Sprint Free - Run your fingers as fast as possible over this bare bones track in 100cm to be a great finger sprint runner! Try to beat my 3.01 seconds personal best!
FS5 Hockey - A basic air hockey table game versus a computer or wireless with another user.
PAC-MAN - Namco offers a free app version of the iconic Pac-Man, although the controls are a bit difficult
Defend Your Castle - The application version of the online Defend Your Castle game, the entire point is to stop invading stick figure men from destroying your castle. Mindless, and pure fun. I'm already into round 55+
Angry Birds - A great game where you slingshot birds into forts built by pigs who stole the birds eggs. Mindless, yet addictive. The free version offers around 20 levels and the pay version ($0.99) has almost 200!
Solitaire - Yes, solitaire has made its way into the iPod app collection. Let the addiction begin.
Cirque du Soleil* - Readers of this blog will undoubtedly know of my obsession with this French-Canadian circus group. This application lets you check performance dates, order tickets, log the ones you've seen, and more! I'll be checking this frequently to see if any are coming to cities I happen to stumble into.
Dots/Chess/Checkers Free - Freeware games of Checkers, Chess, and Dots for hours of mindless entertainment.
Daily Puppy* - As described, pictures of puppies every day, from DailyPuppy.com
Other Apps Not Suitable For Use During Travel Found on my iPod
IMDb* - The online movie database in application form for quick on the go movie references and actor searches. Great for settling movie arguments in a pinch
Fandango* - Useful best when at home, book your movie tickets in a few touches for your favorite show!
Redbox* - Becoming popular in the USA, Redbox is conveniently located DVD rental dispensing stations for $1/night movie rentals. The application allows you to search for the nearest unit, see what movies are in stock, and even reserve a copy all within a few clicks.
Chipotle* - The bane of my existence, Chipotle is my favorite quick burrito restaurant, and they have an ordering app that allows you to put an order in at the nearest location to you. Absolute heaven.
Betty Crocker Cookbook/All Recipes/Epicurious* - Tons of great food/cooking applications for on the go recipes. My personal favorite is epicurious which has more interactive choices (regions of the world!). Great for bored searches of recipes for a few minutes
Groupon* - A new coupon style application that is sweeping the nation. Groupon offers daily deals specific to localities around the USA. Most are like "Buy $25 in vouchers get $25 free" and are designed to entice you to buy more. While a shady tactic, I've had a few for places I actually go to frequently in Pittsburgh and its worth while for a 30 second check each day
New York Times* - A few clicks while online and the most recent articles from New York Times are saved to the iPod for offline reading! Great stuff! Thanks to Adam from Travels of Adam for the suggestion.
The Onion* - The mock newspaper company that creates all news stories on the spot. Hillarious
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I am always looking for more free applications (key word: free) to download to add to the travelers application toolbox. If you have one that should be added to this list, please comment below and I will add it with your credit onto the list after I evaluate it for the travelers iPod toolbox!
To learn more great tips for your upcoming long-term trip, check out our first book, The Long-Term Traveler's Guide, available in print, Kindle and iPad formats, as well as a comprehensive digital package aimed at making planning your adventure a breeze!
19 comments:
Oh man this rocks so hard core thank you! I'm getting an ipod touch for my travels as well so this is going to be sooooo useful.
Glad you like it Stephanie! I'll be looking forward to hearing if you find any apps I might have missed once you get your iPod Touch. I was initially worried about buying one, considering they cost more than my netbook, but I am absolutely addicted to it. How something can be revolutionary with much of the same is...impressive!
I see so many people using Skype off their iPods and it looks so convenient. I'm jealous.
I can say that Skype from a computer is great for use of a webcam, but on the go Skype is so dang appealing for voice calls. I'll likely have my iPod on me at all times and the aspect of making a free call anywhere there is Wi-Fi is amazing to me. (assuming someone is on a computer at home for the free call) If only the iPod had a webcam too!
We used Skype with our Ipod in Oaxaca and it was awesome. All you need is internet connection (free wifi at the hostel) and a little microphone to plug in. It worked like a charm and the best part - no monthly cell phone bills. The Ipod touch is truly an amazing invention and we could not travel without it. Thanks for this list because we really need to add some travel apps to it and these will be really useful!
Glad you found the list helpful! If you find any that I havent looked through yet, please let me know!
Great stuff, we're getting an Ipod touch just before we leave and this list is going to save us a lot of research! Thanks a bunch!
lol I love Chipotle.
Might want to check out the Wordpress app as well. I've done several entire entries because of it. Also a great way to just jot down entry ideas.
Ya it is really nice. i also used iphone application but there is a some drawbacks in this. we are not say that it's secure device and so many problems i faced during surfing on a net. i can mostly used teamviwer and skype
on my Laptop. so it is very easiest for me.
http://www.northamericavoyage.com
Oooh, good timing fella. A friend showed me his ipod touch yesterday and I've spent the past 24 hours trying to convince my girlfriend why this is worth spending a chunk of our travel funds. This article will be a great help. Thx.
@Poi - Thanks! Glad this will help. Please let me know which ones you like/dont like. Some of the games are hit or miss, but the travel related ones are top notch.
@Michael - Glad I'm not the only addict out there. I'll look into the Wordpress app. Running this blog on Blogspot might make it difficult, but you made me think of finding some good related apps to look into!
@Shailesh - I do believe there are security issues too. Gotta put on lock and immediate lock after a minute of not being used. Otherwise if someone gets ahold of your iPod.. they got your life. I'll look into teamviwer!
@Shane - I spent a lot of time debating with myself on whether or not an iPod is a good purchase considering they're more than my netbook. Not having put it to use overseas yet, I can't say 100% on if it was good or not.. but all signs point to yes.
I've used a lot of these apps since I travel a lot. I use the google earth app to see where I am and where a place is and I use a lot of the restaurant apps to see where to eat and such however the skype app, I believe, is completely useless. I also use the Career Test as a fun way of discovering myself and my career aspirations. I've been traveling a lot to really find out what I want to do with my life so this little app has helped point me in the right direction. The app has been scientifically validated so I know it's not just a bunch of BS. http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/career-test/id353721150?mt=8
How did I just now see this?! I've got a lot of the same apps. I'll throw in my two cents: Hostelworld app is amazing & you can download content for offline use. Also, I use the NYTimes app every single day.
I ONLY use Skype on my iPod as well. More privacy, even if there's no video.
Didn't know about the World Nomad language apps. Definitely downloading those now.
I really like the Skype ipod version, so I could see why you would use it over the traditional video conference. It is very clear even on bad signals.
The world nomad apps are great. The first few chapters of the free edition it will even pronounce the words for you!
Fantastic tips. Some of them seem so obviously important but I never would have thought of them.
It is a great set to have, but unfortunately I barely used any of them while traveling! I am going to have a revisit to this post in the future and comment on why I did or did not use some of the apps on the road.
If I had to say though, they are all important to have just in case, however. So I am glad I downloaded them.
great post- I am leaving for a 4 month whirlwind trip on Monday and I am curious what your thoughts are on the ipod touch vs the ipad? I got a touch as a gift, but am thinking the ipad will be better for taking photos off my camera, and general blogging. the touch is smaller so obviously that's handy, but the ipad will eliminate my need to bring a laptop. HELP!
-Katy
Hi Katy,
I do not want to call myself an expert on the iPad - I do not have one and only know of some of the limitations.
Personally I think that I would not get an iPad for travel, mostly because some technical limitations would irritate me when doing day to day browsing and the touch screen may be easily damaged or difficult to use in a pinch unless you are comfortable with the touch already.
I also would be afraid of it being stolen over a cheapy netbook. My general principle is to not take anything traveling that I wouldnt be afraid on losing... so that implies me going cheap.
I've been meaning to update this post series more, but there were only a limited number of apps I used abroad. Primarily Skype and Facebook to no surprise. One of my best moments was pulling out my iPod and using skype and calling home on the side of the road in Nagano as my ryokan did not have wifi. But even then, my use over a netbook was limited even for listening to music.
Just my opinion, but you really should judge by your own thoughts on it all and what you intend to use it for.
Also... I just have to say.. Angry Birds was my most used app by far. I now own all 3 versions for a grand total of $2.97
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