Staying safe should be your top priority when traveling, whether going on a solo adventure or group getaway. With rising safety concerns, it’s essential to take precautions and utilize tools that can help keep you secure and aware. Luckily, there are a variety of innovative apps designed specifically to increase travel safety through useful features that provide protection and peace of mind. In this article, we will highlight 11 of the best apps to help you stay safe when traveling.
These apps offer advanced capabilities to keep you guarded and alert, giving you greater confidence and assurance when journeying near or far. We’ll cover apps with features like emergency assistance, travel advisories, location sharing, and more. By downloading a few of these apps before your next trip, you can travel with greater awareness and protection.
Flight View
To stay safe when traveling, having access to real-time flight details is crucial. The Flight View app is an essential travel companion that offers live flight tracking, status alerts, and airport information directly to your mobile device.
What makes this app stand out is its ability to promptly notify you if your gate changes – an important feature for staying safe and avoiding getting lost in an unfamiliar airport. I have personally used Flight View multiple times and have always been impressed by its accurate performance.
The user-friendly app is easy to navigate. Simply enter your flight number and Flight View will keep you updated on pertinent changes like gate switches, delays, and more. You can also access details about airport amenities to stay aware of your surroundings.
Another reason I appreciate this app for safety is that flight updates are available not just for the traveler, but for anyone providing airport pickups. With real-time notifications of delays or schedule changes, drivers can adapt plans accordingly and stay aware of your arrival time.
Overall, the Flight View app provides the kind of real-time information that is invaluable for staying safe during airport travel.
Alternatives: Flightradar24, FlightAware, FlightStats
Smart Traveler
Staying safe when traveling internationally requires access to up-to-date information. The Smart Traveler app, developed and maintained by the U.S. State Department, is an invaluable tool for U.S. citizens journeying abroad.
There are several important features that help you stay aware and protected. First, it provides country-specific details including entry/exit requirements, local laws, health conditions, transportation, and more.
You can also get safety warnings about protests, terrorist attacks, or natural disasters that could put you at risk. Knowing local customs is key to staying safe, and this app helps keep you informed.
I discovered the value of Smart Traveler firsthand when traveling in the Middle East during Ramadan. The app notified me of the religious fasting period, explaining that while tourists aren’t required to fast, avoiding public eating and drinking shows respect. This cultural insight was invaluable for staying aware and avoiding unintended offenses.
Another useful feature for safety is the app provides embassy contact information and locations. Although I hope to never need this, having it available gives peace of mind when abroad.
By providing real-time travel advisories and insights, the Smart Traveler app is an indispensable tool for staying aware of risks and respecting local customs when journeying internationally.
Alternatives: Geosure
Google Maps
When traveling internationally, having access to navigation tools you can rely on is key to staying safe. Google Maps is available in over 200 countries worldwide, providing turn-by-turn GPS directions whether you’re driving, hiking, biking or using public transportation.
One important feature for safety is the ability to download maps for offline use before a trip. This allows you to navigate foreign areas smoothly even without WiFi access. The voice-guided GPS works offline as well, helping you stay oriented when disconnected.
For public transit users, Google Maps shares bus and train schedules, stations and routes in supported cities – valuable insight for planning safe journeys. And if traveling alone, real-time location sharing allows selected friends/family to monitor your whereabouts and meet up easily.
With its vast global availability, offline features and connectivity, Google Maps equips international travelers with the information and tools needed to remain aware of surroundings and maintain safety on the go. Let Google Maps be your guide to staying secure on your next international adventure.
Alternatives: Mapquest, Waze, Apple Maps
Express VPN
When using public Wi-Fi, having a VPN is crucial for staying safe online. ExpressVPN is an easy-to-use app that keeps your activities private and secure on both mobile and desktop devices.
By encrypting your data, ExpressVPN helps you stay protected from hackers trying to steal passwords, credit cards, or other sensitive information on unsecured networks. It’s essential for safety to have a trusted VPN like ExpressVPN when connecting through public hotspots.
The app makes it simple to get started. Just download, install, and choose a server location from over 90 countries. Click to connect and within seconds you’ll have the green light indicating your encrypted and secure status.
With its multi-platform availability, strong encryption technology, and simple setup, ExpressVPN is an ideal tool for travelers to stay safe when using public Wi-Fi. By encrypting your network data, ExpressVPN provides an essential extra layer of protection that gives peace of mind when connecting on-the-go.
Alternatives: NordVPN, IPVanish VPN, Surfshark VPN
TripWhistle Global SOS
Navigating foreign places independently can be daunting, but having quick access to emergency help provides peace of mind. TripWhistle is an essential app for solo travelers, offering a one-button SOS to instantly connect with local first responders worldwide.
Though currently iOS only, TripWhistle is packed with critical safety features. Don’t know the language? The app’s multilingual support provides translated scripts and phrases to effectively communicate with authorities.
Stay informed on potential hazards with real-time travel risk notifications. Location sharing lets selected friends/family monitor your whereabouts when adventuring alone. With embassy information and emergency calling capacity, TripWhistle helps you stay vigilant and get assistance off the grid.
If journeying internationally solo, don’t go without this app’s vital features at your fingertips. TripWhistle keeps you prepared with translated emergency scripts and direct access to first responders, empowering independent travelers to explore safely and confidently.
Devices: iPhone
Geosure
Staying aware of potential risks is key to staying safe when traveling internationally. The GeoSure app aims to empower travelers by providing safety scores and insights for destinations worldwide.
GeoSure assigns color-coded safety ratings to neighborhoods and areas based on real-time data and risk factors. Green denotes generally safe regions, while red flags unsafe zones, with yellow and orange indicating moderate caution needed.
Users can access details on specific concerns like crime, health hazards, political stability and more that factor into an area’s score. This helps travelers make informed decisions to avoid undue harm when journeying to unfamiliar places.
With its wealth of up-to-date safety insights, GeoSure is an invaluable tool for travelers seeking to explore new destinations confidently and responsibly. By staying informed on local conditions, you can plan your travels wisely and take precautions where needed to ensure your well-being abroad.
GeoSure provides the safety awareness that is essential for staying vigilant, avoiding unnecessary risks and enjoying travels to the fullest.
Alternative: Smart Traveler
HostelWorld
Finding secure lodging is key to staying safe when traveling on a budget. HostelWorld is an invaluable app for booking trusted hostels worldwide with thousands of affordable options and honest reviews.
Whether you prefer a private room or lively social setting, HostelWorld has a huge selection of top-notch yet inexpensive accommodations globally. Reviews from fellow travelers help identify secure and reputable places to stay within your means.
With just a few taps, you can book unique hostels off the tourist track and immerse yourself in local culture while maintaining safety. By living affordably like a local, you can stay open to rich experiences abroad while being wise with expenditures.
HostelWorld enables budget-savvy jetsetters to securely experience authentic local living through vetted, inexpensive accommodations anywhere on the globe. Stay open to adventure abroad knowing you have access to safe lodging options for every need and budget.
Alternatives: Hostelz.com, Booking.com, Airbnb.com
Flush
When traveling, finding clean, easily accessible restrooms helps you stay healthy and avoid unpleasant situations. Flush is an app that can make locating bathrooms while on the go much simpler.
Flush allows you to search for nearby restrooms based on proximity, cleanliness, accessibility, ratings and amenities like baby change tables. With listings around the world, it’s easy to find a suitable bathroom no matter where you are.
Additional features like digital door keys for train station bathrooms can be critical for staying safe when urgently needing a restroom. Though I haven’t yet used this capability, it’s reassuring to have in a bind.
By helping travelers conveniently find reviewed restrooms worldwide, Flush enables you to stay comfortable, clean and healthy while exploring new destinations. Having quick bathroom accessibility gives peace of mind that basic needs can be met respectfully while on the move.
Flush takes the stress out of bathroom breaks, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying new places. It’s an essential tool for maintaining health and hygiene when far from home.
Alternatives: Sit or Squat, Bathroom Scout
SafeUp
Feeling secure while traveling solo as a woman can be challenging, but the SafeUp app provides access to a crowdsourced network for safety.
If you find yourself in an environment that seems unsafe, simply tap the SafeUp icon to instantly connect with nearby “guardians” by call or video chat. Explain your situation and location, and guardians can assess the scene, provide guidance, or even travel to your exact GPS coordinates if needed.
Whether you feel threatened walking alone at night or are in an uncomfortable social setting, SafeUp guardians can be a virtual companion or send help. Travelers can also set emergency contacts to be alerted if an alarm is triggered.
With country-specific safety tips and user-submitted hazard reports, SafeUp keeps women informed and empowered to navigate safely. For women traveling independently, SafeUp provides comfort knowing you have support at your fingertips if you feel endangered abroad.
Sitata
Travel disruptions are inevitable, but staying informed helps you handle them smoothly and safely. This is where the Sitata app shines. By providing key travel guidance, Sitata empowers travelers to navigate changes and avoid hazards.
Sitata helps organize itineraries, plan trips, monitor for delays, and access vaccination info and safety advisories. By keeping travelers aware of potential disruptions and unsafe areas, Sitata enables you to steer clear of trouble spots and have contingency plans when the unexpected occurs.
I’ve used Sitata to effortlessly pivot my plans when faced with flight delays or sudden destination risks. Its real-time travel insights allowed me to quickly make alternate arrangements and avoid challenging situations.
With Sitata’s free guidance, travelers can feel confident handling whatever curveballs arise. By staying knowledgeable and prepared, Sitata users can adapt their journeys seamlessly and reach their destinations safely when disruptions emerge.
TimeShifter
Adjusting to time changes can be tough, but the TimeShifter app helps travelers combat jet lag and stay alert. By providing a personalized sleep schedule, TimeShifter keeps you rested, avoiding safety risks from fatigue.
Based on your itinerary and sleep patterns, TimeShifter creates a customized jet lag plan with suggested times for sleep, sunlight, caffeine, etc. Alerts help you stick to the regimen and smoothly transition your body clock.
It’s invaluable not just for jet setters, but also shift workers, with a tailored feature for irregular hours. By optimizing your sleep schedule, TimeShifter helps you avoid exhaustion-induced hazards.
Arriving well-rested and adjusted to a destination’s time zone is key for awareness and quick reflexes in unfamiliar settings. For smooth transitions across time zones or shifting work schedules, TimeShifter is an essential tool for staying energized and safe.
Stay Safe with Smartphones For Use In Traveling Safe
In today’s digital age, smartphones have become indispensable companions, revolutionizing the way we navigate the world, especially when it comes to ensuring our safety during travel. These compact devices have evolved beyond mere communication tools, now housing a plethora of applications that are designed to keep us secure in unfamiliar environments.
Pictured below are two popular smartphone models on the market today that are ideal for travel and making the most of safety apps. With the right device and apps, you can feel confident handling whatever situations may arise during your journeys.
Summary
Staying secure should be a top concern for every traveler, whether jetting overseas or journeying close to home. While exploring new destinations is exciting, it’s crucial to take precautions and use tools that can help monitor risks, access emergency help, and avoid hazards.
The 11 apps covered in this article offer invaluable features to give travelers greater awareness, preparedness and peace of mind when on the move. By equipping yourself with a few of these smartphone tools before your next excursion, you can focus more on creating memorable experiences, and less on worrying about safety.
With knowledge of local conditions and quick access to assistance, you can handle whatever situations arise smoothly and confidently. Travel should broaden horizons, not induce stress. So stay smart and stay safe on your next adventure with help from these traveler-approved safety apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are travel safety apps?
Travel safety apps are mobile applications designed to help travelers stay safe while on the road. They can provide a range of features, such as emergency assistance, safety alerts, and location tracking.
How do travel safety apps work?
Travel safety apps work by using your smartphone’s GPS and other sensors to provide real-time information about your location and surroundings. They can also connect you with emergency services and other resources in case of an emergency.
What are some common features of travel safety apps?
Common features of travel safety apps include emergency assistance, safety alerts, location tracking, and local safety information. Some apps may also offer translation services, currency conversion, and other travel-related features.
Are travel safety apps free?
Many travel safety apps are free to download, but some may require a subscription or in-app purchases to access certain features. It’s important to read the app’s description and reviews carefully to understand what features are included and whether there are any costs involved.
Do travel safety apps really work?
While no app can guarantee your safety while traveling, travel safety apps can be a useful tool for staying informed and prepared. It’s important to use them in conjunction with other safety measures, such as staying aware of your surroundings and following local laws and customs.
