Through the beauty of technology, apps and software have connected travelers from all over the world with resources they need. The tricky problem of traveling without a data connection—being severed from the Internet—has started to be resolved by forward-thinking developers who build in offline features to new apps.
These apps, or functions of these apps, can be used without data. This saves desperate travelers, who need a connection when they’re out of their data plan’s range, from exorbitant data bills.
Five Travel Apps to Download for Your Next Getaway
Google Translate
With the introduction of language packs, Google gave users the ability to download a language for offline use. While read back and other voice features aren’t available offline, the language pack will still allow users to translate basic phrases. More than 50 languages are available for offline download, with the download packs getting smaller and smaller with almost every update to make downloading language packs quick and compact—leaving more room on the device for amazing travel photos. Available on iOS and Android
XE Currency
Plug in the currencies that need to be exchanged and this handy app will tell you the exact exchange rate without WiFi or a data connection. Enter the amount and currency type at the top of the converter. The rate is then converted and displayed for four to five other currencies that can be changed based on desired locations. Also, read the top news on current market analysis, downloaded over WiFi. The rate advisor feature compares two currencies with an up-to-date currency converter. If texts are a possibility, users can sign up for text alerts regarding specified currencies. The paid version of this app allows monitoring for about twice as many currencies in addition to being ad-free. Available on iOS and Android
Duolingo
Yes, this app is technically a game, but it’s also a language-learning tool. Activate the offline mode on the app for roughly an hour’s worth of lessons and content. Identify pictures, translate phrases and sentences, practice writing and more in the desired language on this app. For regular Duolingo users, this data is uploaded when there’s a WiFi connection so all days are counted in the streak—Duolingo’s motivation for daily use—and streak count can be uninterrupted. Available on iOS and Android
Solitaire
Our game of choice is Solitaire: Fairly easy, repetitive and satisfying when all the cards are matched up right. Whatever game app works for you that doesn’t require a data connection should absolutely be in your arsenal for long flights and delays to keep from feeling anxious and listless. Available on iOS and Android
First Aid by American Red Cross
Watch videos and demos that showcase lifesaving techniques on this app. While no one plans to have a medical emergency while traveling, accidents and unplanned issues pop up: This app is all about proactive education on treating simple first aid issues in addition to those lifesaving tips in an emergency. Available on iOS and Android
