Business trips can be exciting, especially when you combine them with a couple of days of rest after a meeting or a conference. But let’s face it — they come with their fair share of challenges. From juggling flight schedules to finding your way in an unfamiliar city, the stress can quickly pile up. This is the reason modern travelers cannot get along without apps to use during business trips.
There are hundreds of apps on the market that help navigate these hurdles. They help you keep your itinerary organized, alert you to last-minute flight changes, or find a quiet spot to work in an unfamiliar city. The apps can definitely make the entire experience smoother, more productive, and yes, even a little fun.
An experienced travel agent is always aware of the apps that work in different countries, and Levon Travel always recommends some apps to make things easier. The list will recommend the apps that are easy to download and use.
Airport Apps
Airports can be chaotic, but the right apps can make your experience much smoother. Start by downloading your airline’s app—it’s a lifesaver for tracking flight updates, gate changes, and delays in real-time. For a broader view, tools like Flightradar24 let you monitor flights globally, keeping you in the loop even before you take off.
The other option is to choose a specific airport app. If you’re heading to Paris, for example, the Paris Aéroport app is packed with handy details like terminal maps and airport services.
Meanwhile, LoungeBuddy helps you find lounge access tailored to your travel perks, making layovers feel like mini vacations.
Train and Bus Apps
Train and bus apps are game-changers for business travelers, making ticket booking seamless and stress-free. Apps like Omio, Trainline, and TrainPal allow you to compare prices, schedules, and routes in seconds, helping you find the best option.
Imagine wrapping up a meeting in Vienna and needing to catch a train to Prague. With just a few taps, you can book your ticket, check departure times, and even secure discounts. These apps often support multiple languages, offer e-tickets for convenience, and send real-time updates on delays. They’re perfect for saving time and staying organized while traveling for work.
Currency Exchange Apps
Managing currency exchanges during business trips can be streamlined with the right apps. For example, XE Currency Converter is a popular choice, offering real-time exchange rates for over 130 currencies, historical data, and offline access. It’s ideal for travelers needing up-to-date information without constant internet connectivity.
There are also apps like Currency Converter Plus providing real-time rates for 170 currencies, including cryptocurrencies and precious metals, or Easy Currency Converter, supporting over 200 currencies and cryptocurrencies. It has a built-in calculator and offline functionality making quick conversions effortless, even without internet access.
Online and Offline Maps
Navigating unfamiliar cities is a breeze with apps like Google Maps and other offline mapping tools. Downloading maps ahead of time ensures you’re never stuck, even when your internet connection drops.
Google Maps offline feature allows you to access detailed directions, landmarks, and even restaurant reviews without Wi-Fi. Apps like Maps.me and Here WeGo go a step further by offering offline navigation with turn-by-turn directions for driving, walking, or cycling.
For example, if you find yourself in a remote area with spotty coverage having your route preloaded can save you from unnecessary stress. Offline maps are essential for smooth, worry-free business travel anywhere.
Open Table and Other Reservation Apps
One of the challenges during a short business trip may be finding a place to eat. This may be even more complicated when searching for options for a business meeting.
Table ordering apps, like the popular OpenTable, are a must-have for business travelers who value convenience. OpenTable lets you browse restaurants, check real-time availability, and make instant reservations. The app also provides reviews, menu details, and rewards for regular users.
If you’re looking for alternatives, apps like EatApp and Resy offer similar features with unique touches. EatApp focuses on streamlining group bookings, while Resy highlights exclusive dining experiences and hard-to-get reservations.
Translation Apps
Translation apps are a lifesaver when you’re traveling and don’t speak the local language. Tools like Google Translate and iTranslate allow you to translate text, speech, or even images instantly. Need to read a menu or communicate with a taxi driver? Just point your phone’s camera or speak into the app. Some apps, like SayHi, even let you record conversations and translate them on the spot.
While ChatGPT isn’t a traditional translation app, it can certainly act as an alternative in many scenarios. It can help in translating a phrase or understanding cultural nuances. Besides, it provides context to make your speech more accurate and conversational.
Taxi Apps
Taxi apps are essential for business travelers. While Uber operates in many countries, it’s not always available everywhere, and local apps can often be a better fit. For example, in Armenia, gg and Yandex Go are popular choices, providing affordable rides with easy-to-use interfaces. These apps also include features like fare estimates and multiple payment options.
Looking for alternatives to Uber globally? Apps like Lyft, Bolt, and Grab (in Southeast Asia) offer similar services tailored to their regions.
Expense Tracking
Staying on top of their budgets is essential for business travelers. Luckily there are some apps that can help in tracking your expenses and spending limits.
Expensify, for instance, simplifies managing travel expenses by letting you scan receipts, track mileage, and categorize spending. The app also automates preparing an expense report for you.
Other great options include Trail Wallet, which focuses on daily spending limits, and TravelSpend, designed for group trips with expense-sharing features.