The advancement of technology during the last twenty years is truly astounding. Machines that used to occupy entire rooms now fill less space than the top of the desk, and what used to fill a desk can now occupy only a few inches. Computer and micro-circuitry improvements have filtered into telecommunications and the portability of smartphones—those cellular devices that few are without these days.

The smaller dimensions and portability have not diminished capability, however. Not only can we talk with other from virtually anywhere, small computer program applications or apps that can be downloaded onto smartphones have expanded our abilities exponentially. When traveling, smartphone apps can replace so many other functions that it’s almost unheard of to “leave home without them.” Below are only a few of the handy travel apps many people take along.

FlightTracker

This $4.99 app helps track domestic and international flights. You can check whether a flight is on time or delayed in either departure or arrival. In transit, you can check the progress of the flight almost anywhere in the world right up to the minute you board the plane. For people awaiting your arrival, additional track options are available.

Clear, easy-to-use lay outs and displays make this a very desired app for both travelers and others interested in when family and friends are arriving. Don’t rely on airline doublespeak: Check for yourself for the most accurate information right from your iPhone or iPad.

As an additional enhancement, this app is available in English, Danish, Chinese and Spanish! And as a bonus, if you have the app on your smartphone, you can download again for free for your iPad!

Smart Traveler

The US Department of State developed this free app for US citizens traveling internationally. It won’t help you clear a foreign nation’s Customs, but you can register with the State Department before or after arriving in a country. Should any change to safety conditions or a natural disaster or other alert notification, the State Department would contact you directly with information and instructions as necessary.

The app also provides general information about the country you are visiting in addition to the advisory information disseminated, making this a handy app to have as well as a high-priority one for the international traveler.

TripIt

Whether you are traveling to another country or across the United States, TripIt helps keep you organized and on time. You upload your travel plans and details, and TripIt keeps track of it for you. You receive reminders and notifications when a scheduled event is approaching, and you can share that information with friends and family or other travelers to keep everyone well informed and current on status and travel conditions.

You can store your travel information not only on your smartphone but also on your laptop or tablet and on your electronic calendar for maximum convenience and versatility.

Never forget or mistake your schedule details again. Never again will those expecting you wait at the wrong gate from changed arrival details. Stay informed, and stay on time with the free TripIt app.

About the Author: Article written by Holly Miller, who writes for Coupon Croc. Stay in touch, even when you travel, with a reliable international service plan. Use Virgin Mobile discount codes and save on the coverage you need.

Share and Enjoy:
  • Digg
  • del.icio.us
  • Google Bookmarks
  • BlinkList
  • Diigo
  • Faves
  • Ping.fm
  • Reddit
  • Technorati
  • Yahoo! Buzz
  • connotea
  • StumbleUpon
  • Facebook

Related Posts:

Tagged with: •

Filed under: Travel Gadget

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!