More Travel Apps

Not too long ago, I blogged about a few of the more basic travel apps that I have found particularly useful on the road and in the air. But as anyone who has visited an app store on their smartphone will know, the choices for travel apps seemingly multiplies by the hour. Since my last post, I’ve received email suggestions and uncovered a few more useful travel apps for an iPhone or an Android smartphone. Have you found one that you like in particular? If so, share your thoughts here. In the meantime, here are several more interesting apps to consider.

Hipmunk

I like this app (and website) for its name alone: Hipmunk. Like Kayak before it, this app’s catchy name doesn’t signal to the user its purpose as a one-stop shopping spot for your flight and hotel needs. Its simple user interface has received rave reviews. Flight options are displayed on a visual “timeline” grid, while hotel options are displayed on a map, allowing travelers to easily understand where their room is in relation to the airport or other destinations and sites. Actor Ashton Kutcher is also listed as one of the investors in this San Francisco-based startup, which can’t hurt in spreading the word about this useful app.

Traveling with Kids

While I don’t have children of my own, I know friends who use their iPhones, iPads and other Android phones as a way to keep young children entertained during a long flight or ride in the car. Many apps designed for children on the go mimic the car games that families used to play “off-line.” One such app is Travel Bingo. Children of all ages can keep a careful watch for livestock, road signs, cars and other roadside attractions on your way to Bingo. For even younger travelers, some smartphone apps can allow children to learn while having fun (without loosing the puzzle pieces). Wood Puzzle Family apps created by Tropisounds recreate the timeless wooden puzzle apps that have taught children everything from ABCs to the names of states. For more family friendly travel apps, check out this post from Travel Mamas.

DishPal

The last app to come to my attention this week probably isn’t a travel app per se, but it can be fun to use while on a trip. As any foodie could attest, dining is an essential part of travel. Now frequent diners can share their favorite culinary finds with this simple app called DishPal. Use this simple, photo-based app any way you see fit. Share photos of your favorite dishes, look for others recommendations, or search for cuisine from your favorite category. You can attach notes, like and recommend others’ photos, or simply organize your own best dishes from your many travels. A “magazine” feature allows users to organize photos into creative themes.

One More App for the Road

With gas prices at such a high for this time of year, GasBuddy is the simple app you need to find the best fuel prices. Simply enter your zip code and the app will list and map nearby gas stations according to the price.

Again, this list of travel applications doesn’t even begin to highlight the myriad options available for both iPhones and Android smartphones. For more useful travel apps, check out this feature from last summer at Travel and Leisure. Don’t forget to download Explore Minnesota’s travel app to find your favorite regional activities. And if you have a favorite app, we’d love to hear about it.