However, there are also compact notebooks, tablets and laptops where handy applications and programs can be installed to help you during your travels
As a solo traveller you may need help with everything from navigation to communication and safety, there’s an app or gadget for almost every need. There are even applications to help you translate different languages.
Here's a list of essential tech to enhance your solo adventure and most of these will be found in the Apple and Google App stores for your convenience.
These Should Be Your Essential Apps
1. Navigation and Maps:
>Google Maps: Offers comprehensive maps, public transportation options, and even offline maps. You can even store these maps for navigation offline
>Maps.me: Another indispensable application that provides detailed offline maps, so perfect for areas with limited internet.
>Citymapper: If you will be visiting different cities during you travels consider install this app which is ideal for navigating complex urban transportation systems.
2. Communication:
>WhatsApp: We all know by now that this is a r reliable messaging app for staying in touch with friends and family.
>Google Translate: Your handy application in foreign countries that will help bridge language barriers with real-time translation. *You can also take along mini guide books for specific languages and destinations with simple to use phrases.
>Skype or FaceTime: handy if you love video calls rather than text messages to stay in touch with loved ones’ back home.
3. Accommodation and Transportation:
>Booking.com: This application is widely used and offers a wide range of accommodation options with easy booking. Great for finding hostels and bed and breakfast accommodation where you are travelling.
>Airbnb: Similar to the above app this one provides unique lodging choices, from apartments to entire fully furnished homes.
>Hostelworld: This app is ideal for the budget-conscious travellers seeking shared accommodation that is simple and affordable.
>Uber or Lyft: Well-known and in most countries now, these apps are convenient ride-sharing options for easy transportation.
4. For Safety and Security:
>BSafe: This is a handy personal safety app with features like fake calls and location sharing. *You can also add find my phone which is useful.
>ICE Contact: ‘In Case of Emergency’. Most emergency personnel will look for this on your phone. Here you will store emergency contact information for quick access.
>VPN: This handy app and there are a few ones with limited free features will encrypt your internet connection for added security, especially on public Wi-Fi.
5. Your Money Management:
>Currency Converter: Don’t get cheated by not being aware of currency rates. This important application helps track exchange rates, does conversions, and assist with budgeting.
>Mobile Banking: useful to manage your finances on the go but use all necessary security features at all times.
6. Social and Community:
>Couchsurfing: You feeling lonely? This app is useful to connect with friendly locals, and even find free accommodation or company.
>Meetup: What’s hip and happening is useful while travelling solo. Use this app for identifying local events and groups based on your interests.
6. These Essential Gadgets can Be Take Long too:
>Smartphone: Your primary tool for navigation, communication, and information. Install your apps on these and if you have another device do the same there
>Portable Charger: You need this to ensure your devices stay powered up. Get one with solar charging options.
>Travel Adapter: Plug points can be different in many countries so this device is essential for charging electronics in different countries.
>Noise-Cancelling Headphones: If you want to chill and listen to your own beats get these and alternative headphones which are perfect for relaxation and blocking out distractions.
>E-reader: If you like reading in quiet moments then this will carry a library of books without the weight. Or take along the kindle device if you prefer
>Action Camera: Your smartphone may have great phot features but perhaps an additional camera may be useful to capture your adventures with high-quality HD video and photos.
>Travel Drone (optional): If you can afford it perhaps mini drones can be taken along when you want to take stunning aerial shots of your destinations.
Some Additional Tips for Optimal Use
Research suitable apps before your trip: Familiarize yourself with their features, security accesses, and how to use them.
Download offline maps: Sometimes there may not be internet access so ensure you can navigate even without being connected.
Charge devices nightly: During the night make sure you are all plugged to avoid running out of battery when you need it most. Make sure you have all the charging wires suitable for each device
Back up your data: Always do everything to protect your precious memories and information. Today they can even be uploaded into Google Cloud.
Be mindful of data usage: Staying connected in foreign destinations can be expensive. Therefore, avoid hefty roaming charges by using free Wi-Fi whenever possible.
Solo travellers should try and combine the right apps and gadgets, to enhance your solo travel experience, stay connected, and feel more confident exploring new places.
