My phone is probably one of my most important travel companions.

The apps I use can change depending on where I’m travelling. When I travelled through China, for example, having a translation app on my phone made such a difference. It meant I could explain what I wanted, ask for recommendations, order something and still have those fun little interactions with locals, even when we didn’t speak the same language. Those moments are part of travelling for me, and sometimes one simple app makes them possible.

Before a trip, I also spend quite a bit of time researching and comparing hotels, because finding the right hotel, at the right price, can easily become a little research project of its own. And I actually love that part. Exploring the options, comparing places and discovering what’s out there genuinely brings me joy, and the right apps make that whole process even more enjoyable.

Then there are all the practical things: managing an eSIM, booking an experience, converting currencies when I’m trying to work out what something actually costs me in euros, and of course… navigation.

Because as much as I love travelling, naturally knowing which direction I should walk in is not exactly one of my superpowers. So yes, Google Maps telling me very clearly where to go has saved me more times than I’d like to admit.

Some of these apps permanently live on my phone, while others I specifically look for and download before visiting a new destination. These are the ones that have genuinely helped me research, plan, explore, communicate and find my way around the world.