Here’s a frugal confession: when I’m on vacation, I don’t like going out of my way to save money. Does that sound awful? Maybe so. But the way I see it, vacations are for relaxing; not for penny-pinching.
On the other hand, if I can save money without much effort during my trip, then I’m all for it.
Your smartphone can save you money on shopping, and it also comes in handy for globetrotting. When I’m traveling, I download a handful of apps that help me save money without too much legwork. I thought I’d put together a list of my favorites.
If you’re a budget traveler, consider downloading these apps before your next big trip.
Hotel Tonight
If you’re willing to wait last minute for a huge discount, check out Hotel Tonight. Every day, the app lists a handful of hotels that have slashed their prices in the hopes of filling their rooms. The app lists a variety of hotel classes, from Luxe to Basic.
I’ve used this app for nearly every trip I’ve taken in the past two years. It’s never failed me. (Meaning, I’ve never arrived in a city and been SOL.) There’s always a room available in my price point, and I’ve stayed in some fancy digs for cheap.
Also, you get a $25 credit for using an invite code. If someone uses your code, they get a $25 credit, too (Ahem… In case you’re interested, here’s mine: KWONG163).
Wi-Fi Finder
Always on the hunt for free Wi-Fi? This app helps you find it. It’s incredibly easy to use, and it uses your location to hunt for free and paid Wi-Fi spots near you. I’ve been using it for years, and it definitely comes in handy.
Gas Buddy
Gas Buddy is the go-to app for lots of budget travelers on a road trip. You can use it before your trip to map out the cheapest gas on your route. Of course, you can use it on the go, too.
XE Converter
Another thing I don’t enjoy when traveling? Math. This app makes it incredibly easy to convert currency when you’re traveling abroad. This makes budgeting easier, and it helps you avoid overspending.
Smart Layover
I haven’t had the chance to use this app yet, but I love the idea of it. If your flight is delayed and you have a long layover, the app lets you know what nearby activities you can squeeze in during your wait time. It also offers travel discounts, deals on day-use hotels, activities in-terminal, and flight notifications and security wait times.
You can basically squeeze a mini-trip into your vacation. Beats aimlessly wandering the terminal.
Skype is a pretty obvious one, but for the sake of being thorough, I figured I’d add it. If you’ve got free Wi-Fi, you’ve got free video chatting with your loved ones back home.
Okay, Brokepedia readers. You guys are pretty savvy. Do you use apps to save money during your travels? Share in the comments.
Managing your money is like going to the dentist or standing in line at the DMV. Nobody wants to do it, but at some point, it’s inevitable: you need to clean your teeth, renew your license, and manage your money like a grown-up.
Im so behind in the app world, I think hotel tonight and wi-fi finder are my new best friends, great post!
Thanks, Sean. Let me know how they work out for ya 🙂
I’m so behind technologically that I just recently got a smartphone a few months ago! These apps are amazing though and I have to work them into my travel in the future.
The Hotel Tonight one sounds especially interesting for people going on a road trip.
I’m still waiting for an app that helps people find the right exits off of highways for convenient food/bathroom/gas, etc. We drive I-95 often between VA and Long Island and it is so frustrating that you just don’t know if you have to drive 5 minutes or if it is an easy on, easy off stop.
Gas Buddy maps out the stations! And Google Maps should help, no?
Thanks for the tip I’m so behind in technology, I work oversea so normally I freeze my account but I do use Skype. I will try these apps out when I am traveling abroad and not working, I also need to upgrade my phone too.