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Welcome to BTSSS!

Veterans portal.

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Thank you for using the Veteran Portal to submit your travel claim to the Beneficiary Travel Self Service System (BTSSS).

In order to access the BTSSS interface you must log in using:

If you are a JAWS user, please refer to the JAWS Job Aid before using BTSSS.

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Eft information.

Claims approved for payment within this system are designed to use electronic funds transfer (EFT) to your checking/savings account or VA debit card. If your EFT information is not on file with Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Financial Management System (FMS) your approved payment may be delayed until the information is provided to process your claim or adjustments are made to allow for temporary payment by check. If you currently receive other benefit payments by EFT from the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) your EFT information is not on file with our system unless you have provided it previously to your local VA Medical Center. You can confirm if your EFT information is on file by reviewing your Veteran profile screen. If it is missing please contact your local BT office to update it. They will provide you with the necessary signature forms to have it added.

Facility for Payment

When entering claims, please identify the facility responsible for payment as the facility that provided your care or approved your care for care in the community. For example, if you submit a claim for care or services approved at a non-VA facility, you identify the care VA facility that authorized it as facility responsible for payment. In most situations this will be your preferred or home facility. If you receive care at a VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC) this location will be available for selection as an associated facility of its larger parent VA Medical Center. You will see it when you select the location of your appointment.  

The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 requires VA to notify you that this information collection is in accordance with the clearance requirements of Section 3507 of this Act. We anticipate the time  expended by Individuals who must complete this form will average 10 minutes. This includes the time it will take to read instructions, gather the necessary facts and fill out the form. No person will be penalized for failing to furnish this information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. This information is collected under 38 CFR 70 and is intended to fulfill the need for Veterans and beneficiaries to claim Beneficiary Travel benefits and for VA to determine the individual’s eligibility for the benefit.

Privacy Act Information: VA is asking you to provide the information on this form under 38 U.S.C. Sections 111 to determine your eligibility for Beneficiary Travel benefits and will be used for that purpose. Information you supply may be verified through a computer-matching program. VA may disclose the information that you put on the form as permitted by law; possible disclosures include those described in the “routine use” identified in the VA systems of records 24VA19 Patient Medical Record-VA, published in the Federal Register in accordance with the Privacy Act of 1974. Providing the requested information is voluntary, but if any or all of the requested information is not provided, it may delay or result in denial of your request for benefits. Failure to furnish the information will not have any effect on any other benefits to which you may be entitled. If you provide VA your Social Security Number, VA will use it to administer your VA benefits. VA may also use this information to identify Veterans and persons claiming or receiving VA benefits and their records, and for other purposes authorized or required by law.

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Vacation payment plans 

Jet off on your dream 2024 getaway with vacation payment plans by Expedia Affirm. From relaxing beach escapes to European city breaks, your next adventure is more affordable than you think thanks to Expedia’s book now, pay later vacations. Instead of paying the entire trip cost up front, pay-later travel deal lets you make monthly payments towards your adventure whether it’s in 2024 or 2025. Expedia Affirm gives you the option to spread the cost over 3, 6, or 12 months, with no hidden fees. This means you can bag the best travel deals with monthly vacation payment plans. 

Wondering where to take your kids for a summer break in the sun? Choose from a vast array of family vacation packages with payment plans. Your kids could soon be swimming with dolphins in Cancun or riding rollercoasters in Florida’s theme parks. If it’s a romantic retreat you’re seeking, whisk your partner away to an adults-only resort by the beach. You’ll encounter a plethora of all-inclusive vacations with payment plans to hot destinations, including the Caribbean and the Maldives. Play around with the easy-to-use search wizard to view a wide range of book now, pay later vacations. Simply select “Monthly payments” at checkout to book your pay-later travel deal. 

Worried your 2024 plans may change? No problem. Expedia Affirm lets you cancel or modify your booking at no extra cost. You’ll encounter epic vacation payment plans with flexible booking conditions for a vast array of accommodation, car rental, and travel packages. Read on for ideas and inspiration, with everything from romantic weekend getaways to all-inclusive vacations with payment plans. 

Book now, pay later vacations

1. choose your dream expedia vacation.

Take your pick from hundreds of book now, pay later vacation packages. Need inspiration for 2024? Scroll down and you’ll encounter plenty of ideas for relaxing vacations with payment plans, including short getaways and international adventures. If you’ve got somewhere in mind, tap your dates and destination into the search wizard to compare the best pay-later travel deals.

2. Select the plan that works for you

Ready to snatch up one of Expedia’s book now, pay later vacations? Then click “Monthly payments” at checkout, “Continue to Affirm”, and enter a few pieces of information. It’ll give you an instant, real-time decision and display the vacation payment plans available. Pick the one that suits you best and you’re all set – your dream escape is booked.

3. Make simple and easy payments

Once you’ve reserved one of Expedia’s book now, pay later vacation packages, create your account to set up monthly payments. You can do so through the Affirm website or by downloading the app. Whichever option you choose, you can set up automatic payments in a few quick and easy steps.

Why book now, pay later with Expedia?

Whether it’s catching a tan in the Caribbean or soaking up the culture in Europe, you can now jet off on the adventure you’ve been dreaming of for years. With a vast array of destinations and vacation types available, Expedia Affirm makes travel more affordable than ever. Here are just some of the benefits of booking Expedia’s buy now, pay later vacations. 

waiting until pay day to score the best discounts.

Frequently asked questions about payment plans to book now, pay later on Expedia

Can i pay monthly for my vacation with expedia.

Yes, you can pay monthly for your vacation with Expedia Affirm vacation payment plans. Simply choose your dream travel package and select “Monthly payments” at checkout. You’ll have the option to spread the cost over 3, 6, or 12 months, giving you financial flexibility when planning your dream getaway. These pay-later travel deals include all-inclusive escapes, family breaks, weekend getaways, and more. Thanks to Expedia’s vacation payment plans, you can now jet off on the adventure you’ve been dreaming of for years.

How to use Affirm on Expedia and where can I find this payment option?

To take advantage of Affirm’s vacation payment plans, choose your travel package and select “Monthly payments” at checkout. Click “Continue to Affirm”, enter your details, and you’ll get an instant, real-time decision. It’ll then display the final cost for spreading the cost over 3, 6, or 12 months. Choose the plan that’s right for you and you’re all set. You can then log in to Affirm or download the app to set up automatic payments.

How do I use Afterpay on Expedia?

Affirm is Expedia’s trusted partner for pay-later travel. Book with Expedia Affirm to spread the cost over 3, 6, or 12 monthly payments with simple interest and no hidden fees. You can even set up automatic payments on Affirm’s website or through the app. Expedia’s vacation payment plans are available on a vast array of packages, accommodation, and car rentals.

Is there a credit check when paying with a payment plan?

Yes, there is a credit check to see if you qualify for Expedia Affirm’s vacation payment plans. The good news is this pre-check will have no impact on your credit score. It’s quick and easy to perform, and you’ll get a real-time decision instantly. All you need to do is enter a few brief details to do the check.

Can I book all-inclusive vacations with payment plans?

With Expedia Affirm, you can book a vast array of all-inclusive vacations with payment plans. Choose to split the total cost of your escape into 3, 6, or 12 monthly installments. If you’re open to ideas and need inspiration, check out Expedia’s all-inclusive vacation packages to view some of the most popular deals. If you know where you’d like to jet off to, tap your dates and destination into the search wizard. Select the “All-inclusive” filter under “Meal plans available” to view hundreds of the best vacations with payment installments. Whether you’re craving white-sand beaches in the Bahamas or the tropical shores of Hawaii, your next getaway is more affordable than you think. 

Can I book family vacation packages with payment plans?

You can book a wide range of family vacation packages with payment plans thanks to Expedia Affirm. Once you’ve found your perfect 2024 escape, click the “Monthly payment” tab at checkout and follow the quick and easy steps. You’ll have the option to pay in 3, 6, or 12 monthly installments with simple interest and no hidden fees. Take a peek at Expedia’s family vacations for ideas and inspiration. If you’ve got somewhere in mind already, enter your dates and destination into the search wizard to view hundreds of the best pay-later travel deals. From Florida’s exhilarating theme parks to the Dominican Republic’s fun-filled kid-friendly resorts, your family adventure is just a few clicks away. 

What are the benefits of vacation payment plans?

Expedia’s book now, pay later vacations mean you can jet off on the dream trip you wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford in 2024. From romantic sunsets on Jamaica’s beaches to the elegant streets of Paris, the world is more accessible with Expedia Affirm. You’ll have the option to pay in 3, 6, or 12 monthly installments, and you’ll see the total cost up front. There are no hidden fees or late payment fees either, so you can rest assured that what you see is what you pay. Automatic payments are easy to set up and make for a hassle-free booking. Many of Expedia’s vacation packages even allow you to modify or cancel your trip at no extra cost, giving you peace of mind in case your 2024 plans change. As you no longer have to pay up front, you can nab the best travel deals before they’re gone – no need to save up or wait until payday.

How can I find great deals on vacation packages with payment plans?

If you’re keen to score the best deals on book now, pay later vacations in 2024, it’s a good idea to be flexible with your dates. You may find cheaper vacations on different days. For travel during peak season dates, be sure to book early to nab the best prices and your first choice of hotels – accommodation can fill up during busier months. If you plan to get away in low season, you may score a great deal for a last-minute escape. Another way to score great travel discounts is to take advantage of special offers, discounts, and promotions.

Are there any additional fees or interest charges for pay monthly vacations?

You’ll be pleased to know there are no hidden fees with Expedia Affirm’s monthly payment vacation plans. What you see is what you’ll pay. Before you confirm, you’ll be able to view the total cost of your book now, pay later vacation package. While most credit cards charge compound interest that’s complicated to work out, with Affirm you’ll pay simple interest on your monthly installments. Best of all, there are no late payment fees or just-because fees. Expedia Affirm’s simple and transparent pricing make booking your dream 2024 escape a breeze.

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Uplift is the leader in Buy Now, Pay Later for travel .

When you pay monthly for a flight, a cruise, a hotel, or vacation package – you’re giving yourself the freedom to travel farther and explore more enjoyably. Millions of consumers choose Buy Now, Pay Later options for vacation and travel so that they can say “yes” to all those bucket-list items and pay over time.

Paying monthly with Uplift helps you avoid late fees or annual fees you may incur using a credit card. Not to mention you’ll never have to worry about prepayment penalties, debt traps, or compound interest using Uplift.

Whether you’re traveling for work, to visit family or friends, or simply taking that trip you’ve always been dreaming of, using Uplift to pay for flights in installments or spread the cost of your hotel into monthly payments is the perfect option.

Unlike other Buy Now, Pay Later companies, Uplift’s Customer Service Squad is available 24/7 and provides unparalleled service from purchase to final payment.

A few of our partners:

Uplift knows just how much thought, care, and planning goes into creating the most memorable experiences. Lump-sum costs shouldn’t hold you back from booking.

When it comes to paying monthly for your vacation purchases, rest easy knowing that Uplift is the original Buy Now, Pay Later for travel.

Take a look at what our valued travelers have been saying lately.

My daughter just moved from CA to TX and was not able to come home for Thanksgiving. I thought I would surprise her with a visit from myself, her brother and his wife. She will be very happy.

So excited this will be my first trip to Las Vegas an I can take it off my bucket list thanks to Uplift.

Was a great option to pre-book flights without having to pay the entire amount! We travel with a family of 5 so everything is always expensive!

Need more answers to your questions about Uplift? Start here.

Why choose Uplift?

Uplift gives you the freedom to purchase what you want now and pay with fixed monthly payments. Uplift is often a better alternative to credit cards because Uplift charges only simple interest while some credit cards charge interest on interest. Uplift also makes budgeting easy so you can manage your expenses over time rather than paying one large sum all at once.

What kind of products and services can I purchase using Uplift?

Uplift can be used to purchase a wide range of products and services from our travel partners and retailers. Click here to see a full list of our current partners who offer Uplift. Click here to see a full list of our current partners who offer Uplift.

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What is the advantage of using Uplift vs a credit card?

While some credit cards charge interest on interest, Uplift charges only simple interest. If you carry a balance on a credit card, it can be hard to understand what it will cost you. With Uplift, the cost is clear at the time of purchase, with simple interest, predictable payments, and no fees.

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20 Best Travel Apps in 2024 (Plus They’re Free)

We frequently search for the best travel apps to make travel easier. We’ve tested hundreds of travel apps over the years, and we’re often asked to recommend the travel apps we can’t live without.

So, we wrote this post on the 20 best travel apps that helped us to visit every country in the world!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

These travel apps were essential to navigating some remote places, saving money, and communicating with locals to experience unforgettable encounters and find unique places to stay.

Whether you’re looking to reserve a hotel room, dorm bed or apartment, book cheap flights, bus or train tickets on the go, translate a restaurant menu, ride local transport or chat with a local in a foreign language, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel apps you should have!

Let’s Dive In! 20 Best Travel Apps To Make Travel Easy

Table of Contents

1. Skyscanner

Skyscanner is the best travel flight app out there! It’s so easy to use and the prices are unbeatable!

Skyscanner is a metasearch engine that compares multiple airlines’ prices. To find cheap flights, enter your departure airport, destination, and date. 

You can filter results based on stops, duration, and airline. The’ everywhere’ option allows you to discover the cheapest flights from your departure airport. 

Don’t miss out on this one—it’s hands down one of the best travel apps for nabbing cheap flights! It’s worth mentioning here that the Skyscanner app is also a metasearch engine for finding cheap car hire and hotels. 

Our Favourite Feature: Skyscanner  allows you to compare multiple airlines, flight times, and prices. 

2. Booking.com

No travel app comes close to beating Booking.com for reserving accommodation for your trip.

From budget dorm beds in hostels and affordable hotels in great locations to luxury accommodations, including villas, apartments, and everything in between, Booking.com is hands down one of the best travel apps for reserving a place to stay.

Once you’ve made several reservations on Booking.com, you can reclaim awards and discounts on accommodation. Using this app has helped us reach Genius Level 3, saving us up to 15% on future reservations.

The Booking.com app makes it easy to keep all your bookings in one place, and you can impress taxi drivers with the app’s handy hotel address feature, translated into the local language.

Download this must-have travel app before you leave on your adventures!

Our Favourite Feature: Booking.com has i n-app only deals and discounts

3. Airalo eSIM

Nowadays, the best way to stay connected on your travels is with Airalo eSIM . 

The Airalo travel app has been essential for us to stay connected in multiple regions and countries as we traverse the globe. 

This travel app allows you to download an eSIM for 190+ countries effortlessly. It’s so easy, and it’s affordable too! Just download, activate and go! 

We LOVE this product. Read more about why we choose eSIM for International Travel.

Our Favourite Feature Is Discovering eSIMs that cover up to 130+ countries on one eSIM! Choose from a Data-Only eSIM or a Data, Call, and text eSIM to save you   huge $$$. View ALL Discover eSIM Packs here . 

Skype is an excellent means to stay connected with loved ones back home while you’re away.

We use the Skype app when calling a business or private number that isn’t on WhatsApp. 

One of the best things about the Skype app is the ability to make free video calls globally, provided that both parties use Skype.

Additionally, you can place calls to landlines or mobile phones for a fee. 

Keeping your Skype credit topped up with $10-20 allows seamless calling from your mobile or landline, making it a cost-effective way to communicate worldwide.

Access to a wifi signal makes the possibilities endless; you can reach any number globally with super affordable bills.

For digital nomads and business owners who are constantly on the move, Skype proves to be an indispensable app. It lets you quickly jump on work calls, making it an ideal tool. 

  Best feature:  Make free calls/video calls to any country worldwide.

5. Google Maps

Google Maps is an essential app for every traveller. It’s one of our phones’ most frequently used travel apps. We especially love that you can save cafes, hotels or places you want to visit and mark that spot with selected labels. 

We use the ‘heart’ label to add our favourite places to eat, and in the notes section, we add what dish we’d like to eat there.

We like to use the ‘green flag’ label for places we’d like to visit, including attractions and landmarks. There’s a ‘blue bag’ label to pin accommodation options, too. This is handy for saving our hotel or apartment address, and you can customise the label and add notes here, too.

Our Favourite Feature:  The option to download and save offline maps. 

6. WISE 

WISE is an online account that lets you send money, get paid, and spend internationally.

This service has saved us loads of money in international transactions & ATM fees. With a Wise account, you can get paid in other currencies and send money overseas. The app is lightning-fast and super savvy.

This is a must-have travel app for every traveller, especially if you plan to travel long-term.

Sign up for a WISE account here  and send your first International transfer for FREE!

Our Favourite Feature is that fees are transparent and generally low, with no markup on exchange rates. Leave the big fees to the big banks and switch your banking needs to Wise!

7. Google Translate

What a savvy travel app this is! Google Translate is the best travel language app for communicating with the people you meet.

The app translates languages incredibly fast! With 100+ languages to access, you’ll breeze through interactions with locals.

From ordering the best meal, asking for directions or purchasing the correct train ticket or bus route, Google Translate has you covered. 

This app was an absolute gem to help us travel in China, our fantastic trip to Taiwan and decode menu items in Japan and Central Asia. 

Our Favourite Feature: Save particular words or phrases so you can access them quickly when needed.

Imagine checking just one place for ALL your travel details and getting notifications if things happen that may affect your trip. TripIt app is your personal travel organiser, and it will make your travelling life a breeze!

TripIt can organise your travel plans no matter where you book. Simply forward your confirmation emails to [email protected] , and in seconds, TripIt will create a comprehensive itinerary for every trip.

We used TripIt to keep our flights, accommodation, bus & train tickets and even reservations for day tours organised so we could access the app anytime and quickly source the information we needed. 

Believe me, you need this in your life! TripIt is free and one of the best travel apps for staying organised and stress-free on the road.

Our Favourite Feature:  You can also sync your plans with your calendar—no copying or pasting is necessary.

9. Surfshark VPN 

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a must-have tool for protecting your privacy and increasing your internet security.

Surfshark VPN  safeguards your connection with military-grade encryption so you can log into your accounts, make bank transfers, and shop online without worrying that your data may be compromised or hacked.

It works by encrypting communications so you’ll have an anonymous IP address. Surf Shark (or other good VPNs) allows you to access websites that are inaccessible in other countries. 

If you’re in a country like China that bans many social media networks, such as Facebook, you can still access Facebook by turning on Surfshark VPN if you’re travelling there.

Download Surfshark VPN to put your mind at ease while travelling. 

Our Favourite Feature:  Fast connection, easy-to-use app

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10. Trainline

Trainline  is an international rail and coach booking platform. The user-friendly app allows you to buy instant train tickets and railcards and gain free access to live train times and railway station information. 

It’s so handy; we use the Trainline app to book all our train tickets . It’s beneficial for those wishing to travel around Europe by train .

Our Favourite Feature:  The app has a section called ‘my tickets’, which is helpful for quick access to your already purchased train reservations.

RELATED POST –  7 Best Tips for Traveling to Europe

11. Rome2Rio

This app is excellent for comparing transportation options between destinations. 

Once you enter your origin and destination, the Rome2Rio app searches for train, flight, bus, and ferry options between locations. Cleverly, it also shows the driving distance for trips by car so you can quickly and easily see which option is best for your timing and budget.

We use this app frequently to get a quick idea of the options available to get from A to B anywhere in the world. 

Our Favourite Feature:  If you see a journey you’d like to book there and then, the Rome2Rio app connects you with transportation providers to make a reservation.

12. GetYourGuide

Travel with ease! GetYourGuide is great for discovering excellent experiences and tours. Just enter your city, and the app does the rest! 

Find the best food tours, city tours, cruises, wildlife safaris, island hopping adventures, private transfers, skip-the-line entrance tickets and more! 

GetYourGuide offers city passes like the ‘Vatican City & Rome’ Pass . This sightseeing pass provides free entry to Rome’s most popular attractions and museums, saving you up to 55%!

They’ve got everything from thrilling motorcycle tours in Vietnam to invigorating 14-day hikes in Nepal; reserve your spot here .

Book excellent activities, compare prices and read past guest reviews for peace of mind.

The best part is their flexible cancellation policy, no hidden fees, and mobile-friendly tickets.

Our Favourite Feature:  GetYourGuide offers a flexible free cancellation policy.

The ultimate activity and tour booking companion! Viator is a top-notch travel app with a stellar reputation.

Like GetYourGuide, Viator is one of the best travel apps for booking day tours, multi-day adventures, local experiences, entrance tickets, and more!

Viator offers excellent customer service, free cancellation, flexible payment options, and an overall excellent product.

Explore 300,000+ experiences across the globe – USA, Asia, Europe, Australia, and beyond! 

Need travel inspiration about where to travel next? Our guide on the cheapest countries to visit this year will help you decide. 

Our Favourite Feature:  Viator app offers 24/7 customer service & support.

Moovit provides travellers with a one-stop-shop journey experience to help them get from point A to B most quickly and efficiently. 

You may be surprised at how savvy this travel app is; a game-changer in my opinion.

Get train, metro and bus times, maps, and real-time arrival information in cities and destinations worldwide to plan your trip confidently and get mooving!! 

Our Favourite Feature:  The app allows you to add a line (frequent journey) to your ‘favourites’ section for quick access and instant information.

15. Grab (and other ride-sharing apps)

Ride-sharing apps have been a saviour for us as we’ve made our way around the world. 

As I understand, Uber was the first ride-sharing app to launch, but now there are many fantastic apps that can make your life so much easier on the road.

Depending on what country or region of the world you plan to travel to, we recommend downloading the ride-sharing apps below.

• Grab – For travel in Southeast Asia.
• Bolt – For travel in Europe, Tunisia (read these 10 Best Tips for Independent Travel in Tunisia ) and other nations in Africa too. 
• Uber – For travel in the USA, Canada, Europe & Australia
• FreeNow – Travel in Europe (up to 150+ cities)
• BiTaksi – For travel in Turkey.

And there are many more!

Most ride-sharing apps allow you to add your bank card to your profile to take care of the payment. We like this feature because you don’t need any local currency, and it cancels the chance of getting scammed by a taxi driver. Unfortunately, scams do happen.

Read our post about how to avoid 6 common tourist scams in China .

Our Favourite Feature:  Seeing the estimated price and journey time before you make a booking.

16. WhatsApp

Looking for a reliable way to stay connected with friends and family? Look no further than WhatsApp!

This is one of the best travel apps out there, and it’s used worldwide to keep people connected. 

WhatsApp offers a range of features, allowing you to send messages, make calls, and even video call other WhatsApp users for free, as long as you have a wifi connection.

Not only is WhatsApp perfect for keeping in touch with friends and family, but it also comes in handy while travelling. Nations worldwide communicate easily with WhatsApp, so it’s our top choice for the best travel apps to download to your device.

WhatsApp helps you to easily stay in contact with locals, tour operators, hotels, and companies, as many of them are readily available on WhatsApp. 

WhatsApp pairs perfectly with an international eSIM . An easy, reliable and affordable way to help you stay connected with the world.

Stay connected and travel easier out there – choose WhatsApp!

Our Favourite Feature:  The ability to video call, voice call or message other numbers for free, providing you’ve got a wifi connection (or an Airalo eSIM ) 

17. Xe Currency Converter

Use the Xe Currency Converter app to instantly check live market rates for every world currency on your Smartphone or device. 

That’s 170+ currencies that you can convert on the go. If you need to check the conversion of what 1 USD will give you in AUD, you can get your answer on this app within seconds.

We use this app to quickly check the latest exchange rates, handing over any currency in an exchange office or even to a money changer on the street. We frequently used this during our overland travels across Central & West Africa . 

If you’ve ever wondered about what it’s like to travel in this region, here are 17 ESSENTIAL Things to Know Before Travelling to West Africa from our experience.

18. Maps.me

Maps.me app is similar to Google Maps in some ways, but it’s much better for navigating rugged terrains!

Whenever we go hiking, we ensure we’ve got our map downloaded on Maps.me; it rarely lets us down. It does a great job of showing the small trails that Google Maps doesn’t usually pick up. 

It covers six continents, making it essential for unexplored or remote spots.

This travel app was handy in Africa, particularly when directing a taxi driver to our nominated address. Maps.me allows you to set up the navigation and press speak on the app, a voice will then guide you in the selected language. You should see the look on the taxi drivers’ faces when we do this; it’s pure amazement.

Maps.me is a must-have travel app for all travellers, especially those hoping to take off-the-beaten-track adventures.

Our Favourite Feature:  Maps.me offers a bookmark collection that allows you to build your ultimate trip!

19. Trusted Housesitters

If you’re planning to travel long-term, Trusted Housesitters is one of the best travel apps I’d recommend you download right now.

Every traveller finds out that accommodation is one of the most significant expenses on the road, and this app can help cancel that out entirely! 

Being a housesitter means free accommodation for you in return for looking after different homes around the globe. Choosing to join Trusted Housesitters was one of the best things we ever did!

Trusted Housesitters  is a fantastic website for saving money and house-sitting worldwide. 

Join now with our invitation  and receive a massive 25% off your membership!

Our Favourite Feature:  Use the filters on the app to set alerts for preferred cities or countries you know you’ll be visiting in the coming months. 

Omio  is the best travel app and booking platform for travellers on the go.

The Omio easy-to-use app is seamless for booking tickets for trains, buses, flights, ferries, and airport transfers so you can focus on the journey.

They’ve got 1,000+ trusted travel partners listed across the platform, giving you many choices and options to book the most direct route at the best price.

It’s quick and reliable, and most importantly, Omio offers the best deals. 

Our Favourite Feature:  The Omio app keeps your list of ‘upcoming journeys’, which is helpful to ensure your travel plans are organised.

More Travel Tips

We have so many tips to help you travel more!

These 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you stretch your hard-earned dollars further.

Read our top 6 travel hacks to save money and the  20 best travel apps to make travel easier! 

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies. And, if history is your thing, these 30 amazing historical places worldwide will fascinate you!

We have many tips to save money for travel and consider these 20 jobs that PAY YOU to travel the world to help you travel longer.

If you become a trusted housesitter , you can also get FREE accommodation worldwide. Read more about how this works .

Check out our ultimate packing list for travellers , and remember to pack travel insurance! We recommend these two travel insurance companies for excellent coverage.

Our  12 essential tips for safe travel in any country are worth a read. 

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling the world. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual countries , or consider  a Global eSIM if you travel to multiple countries or regions. This eSIM connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM .

The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Get the best deals on worldwide group tours with Tourradar .

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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1 Comment .

Heyy, very useful article, thanks! Perhaps to add on your list might also be this super useful app – ATM Fee Saver – gives ATM fees and withdrawal limits in many countries, really needed needed these days as atms abroad can become so expensive. Never seen anything like this before – it us sure to help lots of other international travellers like me!!!

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New GSA SmartPay Travel Card App Helps Take Some Worry Out of Official Travel

Being on official travel in an unfamiliar city is stressful enough without the added burden of trying to find a gas station when you’re already running on fumes.  With location based service offerings including gas stations, restaurants, hotels and more, the inaugural GSA SmartPay Travel Card App takes the worries out of official government travel. It also stores Agency/Organization Program Coordinator (AOPC) information, making it easier than ever for travelers to report any issues that occur with their cards while on the road. The Travel Card App also contains tax exemption information, so travelers will know when their business lodging and rental car costs are exempt from state sales tax and if there any forms that must be filled out.

“The GSA SmartPay Travel Card takes some of the worry out of official government travel by letting  cardholders manage their travel needs with the touch of a button,” said David Shea, director of GSA’s Center for Charge Card Management. “They’ll always have tax exemption information and travel related services at their fingertips. Most importantly, cardholders can store AOPC information in the App, so reporting a lost, stolen or non-working card can be done immediately. No more waiting to fire up the computer.  GSA is pleased to offer this innovative technology to our cardholders.”

According to David Shea, Director of GSA’s Center for Charge Card Management, user feedback will be key to the further development of the Travel Card App. “We want to give cardholders as much helpful information as possible when they are in travel status. We look forward to hearing from users about what they would like to see further developed with the App.”

The GSA SmartPay Travel Card App is designed primarily for use in the United States and is available for iOS, Android and Blackberry devices through the Apple App Store , Google Play and Amazon App stores .

For more information about GSA SmartPay, visit the program’s website at: https://smartpay.gsa.gov

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PER DIEM LOOK-UP

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Error, The Per Diem API is not responding. Please try again later.

No results could be found for the location you've entered.

Rates for Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. Territories and Possessions are set by the Department of Defense .

Rates for foreign countries are set by the State Department .

2 Choose a date

Rates are available between 10/1/2021 and 09/30/2024.

The End Date of your trip can not occur before the Start Date.

Traveler reimbursement is based on the location of the work activities and not the accommodations, unless lodging is not available at the work activity, then the agency may authorize the rate where lodging is obtained.

Unless otherwise specified, the per diem locality is defined as "all locations within, or entirely surrounded by, the corporate limits of the key city, including independent entities located within those boundaries."

Per diem localities with county definitions shall include "all locations within, or entirely surrounded by, the corporate limits of the key city as well as the boundaries of the listed counties, including independent entities located within the boundaries of the key city and the listed counties (unless otherwise listed separately)."

When a military installation or Government - related facility(whether or not specifically named) is located partially within more than one city or county boundary, the applicable per diem rate for the entire installation or facility is the higher of the rates which apply to the cities and / or counties, even though part(s) of such activities may be located outside the defined per diem locality.

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Tap to Pay on iPhone

Open iphone. close sale..

From small shops to large operations, now your business can accept in‑person, contactless payments with just an iPhone. * It’s easy, secure, and private — and  no extra terminals or hardware are needed.

Take payments. anytime, anywhere..

When you accept payments on an iPhone you can do business in more places. That means reaching new customers, selling on the go, and exploring new setups — like pop-ups and line busting.

Accept all kinds of contactless payments.

Customers can pay in a variety of ways — with debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets. And all you need to accept payments is an iPhone.

Easy to set up. Easy to use.

To set up Tap to Pay on iPhone, enable it in the payment app of your choice. To accept a payment, open the app, enter the amount, and present your iPhone to your customer. To pay, the customer holds their card horizontally or places their device directly over the payment symbol.

Lower your overhead.

There’s no need to invest in or manage card readers and terminals, whether you’re expanding or just starting out.

Protects PINs, payments, and personal data. **

• iPhone is designed with privacy and security built in.
• Apple doesn’t store card numbers or PINs on iPhone or Apple servers.
• Designed to block camera and screen captures during transactions.

Works with your favorite payment app.

Tap to Pay on iPhone works with hundreds of payment apps, so no matter what business you’re in, there’s an app that’s right for you. Simply enable Tap to Pay on iPhone in the payment app you already use or download a new one.

Find out how businesses everywhere use Tap to Pay on iPhone.

WooCommerce

Streamlined checkout goes from stores to street fairs.

WooCommerce launched as an e‑commerce platform that helps businesses build and grow their websites. Businesses also wanted to increase in-person sales, so Woo expanded its platform to integrate Tap to Pay on iPhone.

These businesses can now offer shoppers a more flexible buying experience. And Woo can offer businesses a platform that syncs between online and in-person purchases. With that support, they can set up shop at events such as farmers markets, pop-ups, and street fairs to sell their wares just as easily as they can online.

“Accepting payments so soon after signing up for Woo means anyone with an iPhone can get a business started in minutes.” Doug Aitken, Payments Operations Manager, WooCommerce

By enabling Tap to Pay on iPhone, Woo merchants can offer their customers a more streamlined checkout and accept payments anywhere they take their iPhone. No additional hardware needed.

Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo

Simple payments. For business owners and brides.

Since opening in 2013, Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo owners Franco Salerno and Wendy Ianieri-Salerno have regularly updated their store to meet customer needs. They strive to stock the latest fashions and use the latest technologies. So when they faced a demand for contactless payments, they turned to Square and Tap to Pay on iPhone.

Tap to Pay on iPhone is popular with Darianna’s young, digitally savvy customers who frequently shop without their wallets. They’re pleasantly surprised to be able to pay using their phones from anywhere in the store.

“Customers are fascinated by the ability just to hold the card over my iPhone to pay.” Franco Salerno, Co-Owner, Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo

Tap to Pay on iPhone has allowed Franco and Wendy to seamlessly adapt to changing customer preferences by using a technology that’s already on hand — their iPhone. And simplifying checkout has enabled Darianna’s employees to focus on the most important part of their job: finding the perfect dress.

Easy to set up. Easy to settle up.

Jobox was created to give home service professionals — such as electricians and locksmiths — powerful digital tools that make their jobs simpler and more efficient. These workers are always on the go, and they need customers to pay for services onsite. So Jobox added Tap to Pay on iPhone.

Tap to Pay on iPhone was implemented in the Jobox app in less than two days. And it’s a breeze for Jobox professionals to set up their account and begin accepting payments. Within six months of launch, 60 percent of Jobox users had integrated Tap to Pay on iPhone into their account.

“Being able to use a seamless payment solution on an iPhone eliminates so much friction when accepting payments.” Yossi Shemesh, Director of Product, Payments, Jobox

Now Jobox professionals can easily take payments onsite at the time of service with only an iPhone. Tap to Pay on iPhone is integrated directly into the Jobox app and is so easy to set up that new users can take payments on day one.

Reach more donors. Do more good.

Bloomerang is a software provider that helps nonprofits drive giving, create a smooth customer experience, and manage donations. To create a better in-person fundraising experience, Bloomerang added Tap to Pay on iPhone to its platform. Now its nonprofits can accept contactless payments — from physical debit and credit cards to Apple Pay and other digital wallets — with just an iPhone.

By integrating Tap to Pay on iPhone into its existing platform, Bloomerang widened its donor demographics to younger, mission-driven people who can now give in a way that’s easier for them.

“Expanding payment methods through Tap to Pay on iPhone helps us lower the barriers to giving for potential and existing donors.” Tammy Hammond, Chief Product Officer, Bloomerang

Tap to Pay on iPhone integration brought Bloomerang the most mobile downloads in a single day since the company’s launch. And nonprofits can easily accept frictionless donations anywhere they meet donors, with only an iPhone.

More resources to grow your business.

Pay the Apple way.

Business Connect

Put your business on the map.

Business Essentials

Make IT easy.

Build support in your payment app.

Questions? Answers.

Which devices work with tap to pay on iphone.

Tap to Pay on iPhone requires iPhone Xs or later.

Which operating systems can I use Tap to Pay on iPhone with?

Tap to Pay on iPhone works best with the latest version of iOS. To update to the latest version of iOS on your iPhone, go to Settings > General > Software Update. Then tap Download and Install.

Which payment service providers support Tap to Pay on iPhone?

Review the full list of payment service providers that support Tap to Pay on iPhone.

Which payment types can I accept?

With Tap to Pay on iPhone, you can accept all types of in-person, contactless payments right on your iPhone — from physical debit and credit cards to Apple Pay and other digital wallets, including Android. Ask your payment app provider to confirm the contactless card brands you can accept with Tap to Pay on iPhone.

How do I accept payments?

Accepting payments with Tap to Pay on iPhone is easy. First enable Tap to Pay on iPhone in the payment-enabled app of your choice. Then open the payment app, enter the purchase amount, and present your iPhone to your customer. Customers can hold their card horizontally or place their payment device directly over the contactless payment icon. They can pay with a physical debit or credit card, Apple Pay, or other digital wallets, including Android. For more information, review the Tap to Pay on iPhone instructions.

Where can I get resources to support sales associates?

If your sales associates need more information on accepting payments with Tap to Pay on iPhone, they can refer to merchant education videos and access additional resources including merchant signage.

Where can I get more information?

Additional information about using Tap to Pay on iPhone, integrating Tap to Pay on iPhone with your business, and troubleshooting Tap to Pay on iPhone is available on the Tap to Pay on iPhone Merchant Frequently Asked Questions page.

Dreaming of moving to Italy? Tuscany will pay you up to $32,000 to buy a home in a village

• The Tuscany Region is offering between 10,000 euros and 30,000 euros to those willing to move to a Tuscan town with 5,000 residents or less.
• The payment is meant to go toward the purchase of the home and renovation costs, but cannot exceed more than half of the home’s price.
• The application window opened June 12 and ends on July 27 at 1 p.m. local Tuscan time.

If you've been dreaming about living out your own “Under the Tuscan Sun,” now’s your chance. The rustic Italian region, known for wine and rolling hills, recently announced it will pay people to move to its rural towns.

Called the “Residenzialità in Montagna 2024” – which translates to “Residentiality in the Mountains 2024” – the new initiative by the Tuscany Region offers between 10,000 euros (about $10,715.10) and 30,000 euros (about $32,145.30) to those willing to move to a Tuscan town with 5,000 residents or less. 

The payment is meant to go toward the purchase of the home and renovation costs but cannot exceed more than half of the home’s price. The home will also need to become a residence or habitual residence, not just a vacation home. 

The initiative's launch is “to favor and encourage the repopulation and socio-economic revitalization of mountain areas, acting in contrast to the marginalization of these areas,” according to the application’s official website . 

Want to go to Europe this summer? Here are some expert tips for flights, destinations

Learn more: Best travel insurance

A 2016 study by Italy's Ministry of Environment found 5,627 towns across the country had fewer than 5,000 residents, noted as “perilously depopulated.” Due to dwindling populations, just under half of those towns were at risk of not being able to survive the next 25 years. The pandemic exacerbated the problem, shrinking Italy’s entire population by 384,000 in 2021 – the highest amount in nearly a century, according to a 2021 report by the Pulitzer Center . 

Potential residents have their choice of 76 Italian towns that qualify for the population maximum, according to 2022 data by the Italian National Institute of Statistics. The town with the lowest number of inhabitants with just 510, Careggine dates back to 720 A.D. and sits on the slopes of Monte Sumbra along the eastern side of the Alps, making for an ideal location for skiers. 

A short train ride from Florence, the ancient village of San Casciano dei Bagni is home to 1,495 people, and known for its healing – or at least very relaxing – thermal baths. Or perhaps art aficionados want to live in the birthplace of Michelangelo, which would be the eponymous village of Caprese Michelangelo . Its surrounding region also boasts a rich artistic heritage. 

The region said it had allotted a total of 2,800,000 euros (about $3,000,524) to hand out via the initiative. 

Unfortunately, you’ll need to move quickly to take advantage of the initiative: the application window opened on June 12 and ends on July 27 at 1 p.m. local Tuscan time. 

There are also some strict requirements: Americans must apply for a residence permit “lasting no less than 10 years,” register as residents in an Italian town or city and not already live in a mountain village. 

Applications can be completed online at the Tuscany Region website. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

How-To Geek

I paid for google's drive storage. here's why i don't regret it.

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Why upgrade to paid google storage, is google drive worth the cost, how i use my google drive storage, is there anything to be worried about with google drive, is a paid google drive subscription worth spending money on.

Google Drive offers 15 GB of free storage, but what happens when you run out of space? Since your storage is shared between your email, your photo and video backups, and other services, running out unexpectedly can be a hassle. Here's why you should upgrade.

I try to my monthly subscriptions down to a minimum. Even so, I was more than willing to spend money on paid Google Drive storage. Among the reasons I opted for paid Google storage include:

Ability to Store More Files, Photos, and Videos

Upgrading to a paid Google Drive plan significantly increases your storage capacity. For example, the basic plan offers 100 GB of storage for $1.99 per month, while higher-tier plans provide even more space. At roughly two dollars per month, it's hard to beat 100GB of cloud storage. Additionally, it's super easy to download files and folders through Google Drive.

Personal Use Cases: Travel Writing and TabletopRPGs

As a travel writer , the increased storage capacity allows me to save more photos from my adventures. I no longer need to worry about deleting older pictures to make room for new ones. Additionally, my involvement in TabletopRPGs means I use Google Docs extensively to plan and keep notes. The extra space makes it easy to have all my plans and notes in one place, accessible anytime. I'm sure most other users have hobbies or work that they'd appreciate cloud storage solutions for.

Seamless Sharing of Large Files with Others

When I'm working on personal projects (like that game I built with ChatGPT ), I can easily share them with other indie game developers like myself to get feedback, no matter how big the files are. The same goes for beta-testing tabletop rule systems. What makes this even more enticing is that I can link Google Drive directly to Windows Explorer .

Convenience of Having All Files in One Place

I work when I travel, and as a result, I'm constantly on the go. With a significantly large Google Drive, I can work on stuff while in transit and sync it to my drive once I have a connection. That means things like a 13-hour layover in Panama aren't wasted but instead can be used to get some work done on my mobile device.

Syncing with Google Photos, Gmail, and Other Apps

The biggest benefit of having paid Google Drive storage is its seamless integration with Google Suite. I have a lot of things stored on my Google Drive, from the thousands of travel pictures I've taken to the hundreds of lines of code I've written. While I could (and do) also use GitHub for coding, it's nice to have Google Drive as a backup that syncs automatically from my desktop.

Google Drive offers several pricing plans that cater to different needs. The 100 GB plan costs $1.99 per month or $19.99 per year, while the 200 GB plan is priced at $2.99 per month or $29.99 per year. For those with even greater storage needs, the 2 TB plan is available for $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year. Each plan offers a significant increase in storage capacity, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their requirements. Personally, I don't need more than 100GB and if I manage to fill that space up, it's time to start backing up excess things off-site.

From my perspective, the value gained from upgrading to a paid Google Drive plan is substantial. The small monthly fee is justified by the convenience, enhanced productivity, and peace of mind that comes with ample storage. For instance, paying $1.99 per month for 100 GB of storage means I no longer have to spend time managing files or worry about running out of space.

While Google Drive is my preferred choice, it's worth noting that other cloud storage services offer similar features. Services like Dropbox, OneDrive , and iCloud also provide paid plans with various storage capacities. However, Google's integration with other services (especially Google Suite, which I use extensively) makes it the obvious winner for me.

So, what's the best way to utilize this storage? According to my current storage amount, I've used nearly 30GB of that 100GB storage space. Where are all my files? Hands down, the majority of my storage is taken up with high-quality destination photos and videos. I also have a folder dedicated to work (divided up into personal and business projects) and a large array of tabletop PDFs with rulesets I'd like to try out with my gaming group. Easy sharing of Google Drive files means I can collaborate easily with others.

One of the features I particularly enjoy is the ability to use the Google Docs app on my phone . This allows me to write and save documents directly to my Google Drive, enabling me to work seamlessly, no matter where I am or what I'm doing. This feature has been a game-changer for my productivity and flexibility. Getting a paid Google Drive subscription changed how I approached work immensely.

One of the shadows that looms over those of us who use cloud storage is the idea that our data is going to be leaked . I don't store anything sensitive, like unencrypted passwords, on my drive, but I still would be concerned about the security of the system.

Google Drive addresses privacy concerns with robust security measures. All files are encrypted during transfer and while at rest. Additionally, Google provides detailed information about its privacy practices and complies with global privacy standards, ensuring that your data remains protected.

Another potential concern is the flexibility of the subscription . Google makes it easy to cancel or downgrade your plan if your storage needs change. You can manage your subscription directly from your Google account settings, ensuring that you only pay for what you need. If, for example, I realize I'll need more storage for HD drone footage, for example, I can just expand the subscription to a 200GB one without any fuss.

The answer to this varies depending on your personal considerations. At $1.99 a month, it's far less expensive than a Spotify Premium or Xbox Live subscription. It's useful with a variety of other apps. Portability and easy access through the internet means that you always have access to your files. However, if paying a monthly subscription seems like too much of a hassle, the 15GB free tier still offers a lot of usage. The downside is that you'll have to clear up the files inside them far more often. With all the things I do with my paid Google Drive subscription, it's well worth the price I pay for it.

• Google Drive

• Best Budgeting Apps

Compare the Top Budgeting Apps

• Budgeting App Reviews
• Introduction
• Features to Look for
• How to Choose an App
• Setting Up and Using an App
• Pros and Cons
• Alternatives
• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Budgeting Apps of July 2024: Manage Your Finances Efficiently

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us and terms apply to offers listed (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate products and services to help you make smart decisions with your money.

Budgeting can already feel difficult, but with the right money management tool, you should be able to track your spending habits, find ways to spend less and save more, or budget effectively as a couple.

50% off for new customers (offer ends July 14, 2024)

$3.99 monthly subscription or $47.88 annual subscription

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Connect all your bank accounts, investments accounts, and credit cards
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Help you save for individual savings goals
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create a budget
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track expenses
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 30-day money-back guarantee
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Must buy a subscription (no free option)

Quicken Simplifi is a great budgeting tool if you want to create a detailed monthly spending and savings plan and don't mind paying for a subscription. If you would rather get a budgeting app that doesn't have a subscription fee, you'll have to consider other options.

• Up to 50% off on Simplifi for all new customers
• Stay on top of your finances in under 5 minutes per week.
• Check your custom budgeting plan — anytime, anywhere!
• Track your spending
• See where your money is going and discover places to save.
• Keep your bills in check
• Find subscriptions you don't use and start saving from day one.

Check out our picks for the best budgeting apps, and read more about how we chose the winners.

Best Budgeting Apps of July 2024

• Rocket Money : Best overall for reducing spending and creating a budget
• Monarch Money : Best for saving toward financial goals
• Quicken Simplifi : Best for robust budgeting features
• Honeydue App: Best for couples

The top budgeting apps have a straightforward sign-up process, a decent fee structure, strong budgeting tools, and an overall positive user experience. Learn more about the best budgeting apps, below.

Free to create a budget. Subscription fee applies to premium services.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Connect all your bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts to track spending
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Bill negotiation feature
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Free plan available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited features available with free plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited customer support availability

Rocket Money is featured in our best budgeting apps guide. While the Rocket Money app is free, there is a subscription fee if you want to use Premium features, like concierge services or premium chat.

Offers a 7-day free trial

Premium Plan with a 7-day free-trial, then $14.99 per month or $99.99 annually

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Link bank accounts
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create unlimited budgets and make customizable categories
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Track individual savings goals
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Graphs and charts that track your spending and savings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No free plan

Monarch Money is an overall solid option if you prioritize creating monthly budgets and saving for individual savings goals. The main downside of the app is that it doesn't offer a free plan. You'll have to a monthly or annual subscription fee.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Budgeting app for couples
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can have individual and shared finances
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Create monthly bill reminders
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can discuss finances through chat feature
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only available through mobile app

Honeydue is featured in our best budgeting apps guide as the best option for couples. It's a great option if you don't want to pay a fee. It also allows you to have individual and shared finances.

Top Budgeting App Reviews

Budgeting looks different for everyone, so we selected four picks for budgeting apps. We selected a well-rounded budgeting app, one designed for couples, another that's appealing for setting goals, and lastly one with more detailed budgeting features.

We have a mix of free budgeting apps and ones that have premium plans with subscription fees, so you can choose an option based on your financial needs and priorities.

Best Overall: Rocket Money

Rocket Money (previously known as TrueBill) is our best budgeting app overall because it has a variety of tools to help you save and limit spending.

Rocket Money has both a free plan and a premium plan. With the free plan, you'll be able to link bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts to track spending and you'll also be able to create a budget .

The premium plan includes concierge services, which review your bills and subscriptions to help you cancel or get refunds for these services on your behalf. It also includes premium customer chat, unlimited budgets, customizable budget categories, a savings account, real-time updated syncing, and a credit score report.

The app's standout feature is Bill Negotiation. You'll upload a copy of your bill, and Rocket Money will determine whether you can get the same service with the company for a lower price. Rocket Money may also help you get refunds if you're charged bank overdraft fees or late fees.

When Rocket Money negotiates a bill, you'll have to pay a percentage (you may choose any amount from 30% to 60%) of whatever it will save you for the year. If you plan to change your internet, cable, phone, or wireless provider in the next year, you could end up losing money, though.

Pricing: You may choose how much to pay each month through a sliding scale. Rocket Money has a free plan that's $0. The Premium plan has a 7-day free trial; after the free trial, you'll have to pay around $6 to $12 per month (the lower-price plans are billed annually instead of monthly).

Rocket Money Review

Best for Couples: Honeydue App

Honeydue is a budgeting app designed specifically for couples. The sign-up process is short and simple — you'll create an account by setting up your email, then invite your partner to Honeydue.

Honeydue allows you to see both your individual and shared finances in one place. You also have to option of setting limits to how much your partner can see. When you connect a bank account to the app, you may choose to share both balance and transaction information, share information only, or share no information.

With Honeydue, you can organize your finances by creating monthly bill reminders or discussing personal financial information through the app's chat feature.

If you would like an additional place to store money for a common goal, like a holiday budget or a couple's vacation.

You won't be able to access Honeydue through your computer; it's only available through a mobile app. Some of our other top picks have both online and mobile platforms for more convenience.

Regular Pricing: Free

Best for Saving for Financial Goals: Monarch Money

Monarch Money may be worthwhile if you are looking for a budgeting app that helps you save for financial goals and create a budget. It's also become one of the most hyped-up Mint alternatives among Redditor users since Mint shut down.

Through Monarch Money, you'll be able to make unlimited personalized savings goals . You can customize goals, organize them by order of importance, and link them to bank accounts. The app also helps you create a zero-based budget, track your net worth, and analyze your cash flow.

Monarch Money doesn't have a free plan. You can try out a 7-day free trial. However, after that, you'll need to pay a subscription fee. If you do not want to pay a subscription fee for a budgeting app, you'll want to consider one of our other picks.

Regular Pricing: Premium Plan with a 7-day free-trial, then $14.99 per month or $99.99 annually

Best for Robust Budgeting Features: Quicken Simplifi

Quicken Simplifi might be a good choice if you want a budgeting app that provides a detailed breakdown of your spending and savings.

In addition to letting you create budgets with customizable categories and make individual savings goals, Quicken Simplifi analyzes your spending and savings through charts and data.

You can receive monthly reports for spending, general income, income after expenses, savings, and net worth . You can also now check your credit score through the web application if you have early access (This feature is currently only available to U.S. residents). Checking your credit score through Simplifi won't affect it.

The one major downside to this app is that it doesn't have a free plan. You'll have to pay a subscription fee, although you can try the app for 30 days with a money-back guarantee.

There's also a special promotion available right now — 50% off for new customers (offer ends July 14, 2024).

Regular Pricing: $3.99 monthly subscription or $47.88 annual subscription

Quicken Simplfi Review

Budgeting App Trustworthiness and BBB Ratings

We review the ethics of each company so you can see if a specific financial institution aligns with your values.

We also include the settlement history of the last 3 years so you're aware of any recent public controversies involving the bank.

We include ratings from the Better Business Bureau to evaluate how companies address customer issues and handle transparency.

Rocket Money has a B rating due to a high volume of customer complaints.

Honeydue has an F rating because it hasn't responded to three customer complaints and it hasn't been in operation for a long time.

Quicken has an F rating because it has received a high volume of customer complaints filed, and failed to respond to 13 customer complaints.

A good BBB rating won't guarantee you'll have a good relationship with a company. You also might want to read customer reviews or talk to current customers before making your decision.

Intuit does have some public issues surrounding its tax-filing software, TurboTax.

Introduction to Budgeting Apps

Why use a budgeting app.

A budgeting app can help you understand where you spend your money. It's also useful for building and maintaining an effective budget.

The top budgeting apps let you create a monthly budget using customizable categories.

Many also help you save money effectively . For example, budgeting apps use your transaction history to make charts and graphs. You can use this information to analyze your spending patterns and figure out where to make adjustments in your budget.

Key Benefits of Budgeting Apps

The primary benefit of using a budgeting app is that it gives you a big-picture view of your financial situation.

Many budgeting apps let you link different types of bank accounts, investment accounts, credit cards , and loans. You'll be able to see all your accounts in one place and see how you're spending versus saving.

Budgeting apps also help you build better money habits. If you've struggled to maintain a budget in the past, it might be easier to track your spending on an app than completely on your own. Budgeting apps do the work for you by syncing all your accounts — you just need to make sure everything is synced correctly and make small adjustments when they aren't.

Features to Look for in a Budgeting App

User-friendly interface.

A good budgeting app has a design format that's easy to use. The app should load quickly and make it easy to get started. You should be able to create a budget on your own without much help. If you encounter technical difficulties, you should also easily be able to contact a customer representative through the app.

Syncing with Bank Account

Many easy-to-use budgeting apps for beginners allow you to sync savings accounts, checking accounts , investment accounts, or credit cards.

Apps often use Plaid to link bank accounts. Plaid can connect more than 11,000 U.S. banks and credit unions, including the best banks .

Expense Tracking

Once bank accounts are linked, your spending will be updated on the app so you have up-to-date information. A strong budgeting app will provide updates frequently, and during the same day so you can stay on top of your budget.

Customizable Budgeting Categories

Many budgeting apps allow you to create a zero-balance budget. With a zero-balance budget, you're figuring out where every dollar of your income is going. You can create budget categories for every expense. You can also create savings goals if you're setting aside money for a specific purpose, like a down payment on a home or a future vacation.

A good budgeting app allows you to make customizable budgeting categories rather than pre-set categories. That way, you can make a budget that's tailored to your life and make categories as broad or specific as you want.

Charts and Visual Analysis Features

A top budgeting app analyzes your habits so you can see how you manage your money over time. Some apps provide charts of your monthly budget so you can see how your categories compare to one another. Others might have visuals to indicate how much money you have left to spend in a certain category for that month.

Several budgeting apps also provide reports for broader areas of your finances. For example, you might be able to view your cash flow balance over several months or how your money in your retirement plans has grown over time.

How to Choose the Best Budgeting App for You

To find the right budgeting app, you need to know what features you're looking for. Are you looking for ways to cut back on spending? Do you want a free plan or a subscription plan for your budgeting app? Do you want a detailed breakdown of your finances or more of a general overview? Knowing the answers to these questions can help narrow down your options.

If you have your eye on a few budgeting apps, you can try out the free trials or free versions of each before settling on the right one. That way, you can see if the interface is also user-friendly and manageable for the long-term.

Setting Up and Using a Budgeting App

Step-by-step guide to setting up your budgeting app.

To use a budgeting app, you'll have to download it through the Android or Apple store. To set up most budgeting apps, you'll enter your name and email address. If the app charges a subscription fee, it will prompt you to sign up for a plan or free trial.

The best budgeting apps will walk you through the app's different features and help you get started. You'll typically be prompted to link accounts. Then, you can create a budget or set savings goals.

Tips for Effective Budgeting with the Apps

If you're new to budgeting apps, it may be helpful to start off with some structure.

For example, you could use a popular savings method like the 50/30/20 rule or pay-yourself-first strategy.

The 50/30/20 rule breaks down your budgeting, so 50% goes to needs, 30% goes to wants, and 20% goes to debt or savings. The pay-yourself-first strategy focuses on savings — you'll automatically transfer money from your paycheck to some of your savings and then distribute what's left over to your expenses.

Another tip for effective budgeting is to look at your expenses to see if they reflect your financial goals and values. If you have certain goals that are of higher priority than others, find ways to reduce spending in categories that aren't a priority for you. That might mean waiting before making a purchase, creating a meal plan or grocery list to limit spending on food, or auditing your subscriptions to see if there are any you can cancel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Budgeting Apps

Experts recommend trying out a budgeting app's free plan or free trial before committing to an annual plan.

There are many budgeting apps out there, so you want to try to find the one that best aligns with your financial needs. Testing a few apps can help you decide the best one, and it also keeps you from paying too much for a budgeting app that you won't end up using.

Pros and Cons of Budgeting Apps

Alternatives to budgeting apps, budgeting apps vs. spreadsheet or diy budgeting methods.

You may prefer building a spreadsheet budget if you don't want to link all of your bank accounts or credit cards in a mobile app. However, setting up and maintaining your budget will primarily hinge on how much work you're willing to put into it.

A budgeting app does the tracking for you. With a spreadsheet, you'll have to either start from scratch or use a template. Either way, a budgeting app still offers more comprehensive features.

Budgeting Apps vs. Personal Finance Software

Budgeting apps and personal finance software share the same features. The best option for you will depend on whether you have preferences on the tool's accessibility.

A budgeting app is primarily designed for mobile experiences. Some apps also have an online dashboard which you can access through your computer, but it is always something that's offered.

Meanwhile, personal finance software is designed for computer access. You'll either download the software to a desktop or use an online platform. Some will also have apps, but some features might not be available.

Budgeting Apps vs. Savings Accounts with Goals Features

Some of the best online banks have added unique features to their savings accounts to help customers with goal-setting.

If you're specifically looking for a way to save for goals, it may benefit you to get a savings account with buckets . Buckets are customizable tools that separate your savings so you can save for specific goals. Since they are an integrated bank account feature, they also might be easier to manage than a budgeting app.

If you would rather have more robust budgeting tools, a budgeting app will likely still stand out to you. Budgeting apps also connect investment accounts, credit cards, and loans, so you'll be able to see everything in one place.

Budgeting App FAQs

A budgeting app is beneficial for tracking expenses and sticking to a budget. It can also help you save for financial goals and prevent lifestyle creep .

To choose the best budgeting app for your needs, consider what your financial goals are and how a budgeting app can best help you achieve them. If you need help cutting back on expenses, you might consider a budgeting app with bill negotiation features. If you need help with savings, you might prioritize an app that helps with goal-setting features.

Most budgeting apps have encryption to store data, making them secure to use if you're linking your accounts. To keep your username and password safe, budgeting apps might also have multi-factor authentication so they can verify your identity when you're logging in.

A budgeting app can help you understand your financial situation so you can create a budget that saves you money over time. These apps can help you find areas where you can reduce your spending. Some also offer a bill negotiation feature so you can see if you can save money on subscriptions.

Yes, there are free budgeting apps available in the Apple and Android stores, though they typically have more limited features than apps with paid subscriptions. The best free budgeting app is Honeydue, which is specifically for couples.

Mint shut down in March 2024. You'll have to switch to Credit Karma if you want to continue using an Intuit personal finance platform, or you can switch to an alternative budgeting app.

In most cases, the best budgeting app for beginners will be one that makes budgeting easy — this means it has an easy-to-use interface and links to your accounts, so you don't have to enter every transaction manually. It can also be good to have an app that teaches you about money.

Rocket Money is our best budgeting app overall, and it has a free plan. If you're in a couple, our top pick is Honeydue which is also free to download.

Why You Should Trust Us: Experts' Advice on the Best Budgeting Apps

We consulted banking and financial planning experts to inform these picks and provide their advice on finding the budgeting app for your needs.

• Sophia Acevedo, banking editor, Business Insider
• Mykail James, MBA, certified financial education instructor, BoujieBudgets.com

Here's what they had to say about budgeting apps. (Some text may be lightly edited for clarity.)

What should I look for in a budgeting app?

Mykail James, MBA, certified financial education instructor, BoujieBudgets.com :

"My best tip for people who are looking to start using a budgeting app is to figure out what you're missing in your financial system. For example, if you are a person who knows that you want to stick to a zero-based budget, and you've been doing that manually, but you need maybe a little bit more help with the organization, then you can center your focus on searching for apps specifically solve your problem."

Sophia Acevedo, banking editor, Business Insider :

"I would look for features that would help me with my goals. Like if I'm trying to curb spending, I would look for a budgeting app that helps me minimize payments in certain spending areas."

How do I know if a budgeting app is right for me?

Mykail James, MBA, CFEI:

"Give it time. Every budgeting app is going to feel uncomfortable during the first month. Give it at least three months before deciding if it's not something for you. Actively try and use it before considering a switch."

Sophia Acevedo, CEPF:

"I would first try out the free version and see how it works. Some budgeting apps are entirely free, while others have different plans or trials at a variety of price points."

Methodology: How Did We Choose the Best Budgeting Apps?

At Business Insider, we aim to help smart people make the best decisions with their money. We understand that "best" is often subjective, so in addition to highlighting the clear benefits of a financial product, we outline the limitations, too.

First, we compiled a list of 18 popular budgeting apps available in both the Google Play Store and Apple Store.

Then, we reviewed each budgeting app for a week. To determine our top picks, we reviewed the initial sign-up process, pricing, budgeting tools, and user experience. We also considered whether each app accomplished everything it advertised, and how regular users reviewed the product on the Apple and Google Play store.

• Bank accounts
• Savings and CD rate trends
• How banks operate

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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• Main content

Europe’s pay-to-pee culture, explained

Paying for public toilets is the norm in Europe, but free bathroom advocates are bringing relief to tourists and locals.

Two summers ago, Pauline Frommer was at the train station in Dijon, France, when she had to run to the automatic bank machine for an emergency withdrawal. Her purchase couldn’t wait.

“ I needed a euro so I could pay for the toilet,” said the co-president and editorial director of Frommer Media , which publishes Frommer’s guidebooks.

As temperatures rise in Europe , travelers will need to stay hydrated to avoid heat-related illnesses. The more liquids they consume, the more bathroom breaks they will need. To avoid the wiggly dance, they should familiarize themselves with Europe’s restroom practices. While the mechanics are similar, the experience might cause culture shock.

“It is a surprise to have to pay,” Frommer said.

Public toilets are often affiliated with the local government or municipality. Visitors can find the facilities in train and bus stations, parks and gardens, and touristy areas. The restrooms can be traditional, with a row of stalls and bank of sinks, or a stand-alone cabin with a basin activated by a foot pedal. Look for the universal symbols: a pair of male and female figures. “WC,” the abbreviation for “water closet,” or some variation of “toilette” are also common.

During a recent trip to Europe , I found a slew of public toilets requiring a small fee — in the Berlin and Zurich train stations, by a cruise ticket booth on Lake Zurich, near the beach in Positano, Italy, and off the main square in Ravello, also on the Amalfi Coast.

“Europe has more public restrooms than we do,” said Kate Storm, a New York-based travel blogger who covers bathroom culture on her site, Our Escape Clause , “but you generally have to pay for them if they’re not owned by a private business.”

Pay-to-go facilities are typically cared for by an attendant or are self-cleaning. The fee, which helps cover maintenance, supplies and labor, is typically small change: 50 cents or a euro in a European Union country, one or two Swiss francs or 20 pence to a pound in the United Kingdom. Restrooms with additional amenities, such as changing rooms or showers, might charge a bit more.

Many destinations are moving toward a cash-free economy, and a growing number of lavatories accept credit cards. For the ones that don’t, you will need coins. Otherwise, you will get stuck on the wrong side of the turnstile or bathroom attendant.

Access fees for public toilets varies. Several cities have free facilities, such as London, which offers restrooms at National Rail stations ; Copenhagen , which eliminated the charge in 2013; and Paris , which has 400 “sanisettes,” or automatic public toilets. As of last year, Berlin has relaunched 100 renovated and complimentary toilets, according to the city’s official website.

Raymond Martin, managing director of the British Toilet Association , advocates for free and inclusive toilets. However, without government oversight, he said the toilets come with risks, such as a lack of safety, sanitation and functional equipment.

“Unfortunately in this country, like many countries, we have some miscreants … people who just can’t see anything bright and shiny,” he said. “So things start to get broken.”

Businesses adopt open-bathroom policies

Using a bathroom in a private establishment, such as a restaurant, cafe or shop, is trickier. Some businesses, especially in busy tourist areas, deter non-customers with “no public restroom” signs. However, cities facing a crush of visitors and a shortage of public lavatories are nudging businesses to open their restrooms to the general public.

A German initiative called Nette Toilette , or Nice Toilet, pays restaurants and stores a monthly subsidy of $64 to $107 in exchange for allowing people to use their toilets. The program, which launched in 2000 in the German town of Aalen, has expanded to more than 200 cities and 2,500-plus businesses in Germany and Switzerland. Participants place a red sticker with a smiley face in their storefront window. Visitors can also find the locations on the Nette Toilette app.

In London , the Community Toilet Scheme is a collection of businesses that grants people access to their bathrooms with no purse strings attached. The map includes such establishments as the Old Doctor Butler’s Head pub, Shaws Booksellers and a Nando’s, plus several UriLifts, a pop-up urinal.

Travel experts recommend shopping malls, restaurants and cafes that are so busy or big, they won’t notice you slipping inside to use the toilet. In his book “Europe Through the Back Door,” travel guru Rick Steves suggests dining spots with outdoor seating or fast-food joints. He said buying a token soda or fries is not necessary, though sometimes the bathroom door code is printed on the receipt.

Frommer has no qualms about sauntering into an establishment and asking to use their toilette, baño, banheiro or loo.

“If I needed to go, I would walk into a cafe or restaurant and just ask,” she said. “I’ve never been turned away in Europe, especially if you learn the phrase in the language of the place you’re in.”

Apps that map bathrooms

When you gotta go, you don’t really have time to waste time on a toilet scavenger hunt.

Thankfully, many tourist offices and information booths print or post maps with the bathroom locations. Some municipalities also provide this information online or in an app, such as Oslo and Rome , which has compiled a list of P. Stops that welcome tourists. Many of the maps also highlight accessible toilets for travelers with disabilities.

Companies that specialize in restroom development as well as tech entrepreneurs have created navigation tools for restroom seekers. JCDecaux, which designs free public toilets in more than a dozen cities in Sweden, unveiled an app called ToaSverige in 2021. It lists 100 toilets in Stockholm alone. HogeNood claims more than 9,500 sites in the Netherlands.

A few apps, such as Bathroom Scout and Flush , offer a broader sweep of the lavatory landscape. However, the crowdsourced data might be outdated, so don’t use these on a full bladder.

BYOTP and other tips

If you are traveling on a budget, strategize your bathroom visits. Use the restroom (twice if necessary) at every museum and cultural attraction you visit — the entry ticket includes the bathroom. At the train station, wait and use the latrine on board, though it might not be as pleasant as the one in the depot. Listen to your inner parent and use the bathroom after every meal.

Martin said some U.K. service stations on motorways and in train depots include a perk with their toilet admission: a discount on a candy bar, cup of coffee, doughnut or other small snack item. So, hang onto your receipt and cash in your coupon.

“I think only 20 percent of those tickets are redeemed,” he said. “So, it’s actually a very clever scheme.”

At some facilities, attendants resupply the rolls of toilet paper or hand out sheets. Spots with a less rigorous maintenance schedule might run out of the paper product. As insurance, Strong always carries a small packet of tissues.

“Bring some change, bring some toilet paper,” she said, “but don’t overthink it.”

Also, don’t go overboard with the toilet paper. Europe plumbing can be old, and you don’t want to be the traveler who clogs the public toilet.

“Americans are notorious for using half a roll of toilet paper at a time,” said Bob Cromwell, who runs Toilets of the World , an online resource.

You may see signs inside the bathrooms urging visitors to be thrifty with the toilet paper. The PSAs are typically written in English.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: Take our destination quiz to choose your own adventure. Then read about 12 dream destinations at the top of our wish list — without the crowds.

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: Explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Trace a route along the southern coast of Puerto Rico . See how jamón gets made in the heartland of Spanish pork .

9 Best Apps for Finding Cheap Flights

The best flight apps help you score a deal with a few swipes on your smartphone.

Getty Images

With the help of technology, you may be able to save by booking at the right time, snagging a mistake fare or flying into a different airport.

Key Takeaways

• Airfare can be one of the most expensive parts of traveling.
• Apps make it easy to track trends in fare prices, look for deals and book flights.
• Some apps are completely free to use while others may charge a fee.
• While some apps charge a fee, there may be a free version available with limited features.

There’s good news for travelers: airfares dropped 5.9% during the past year as of May 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That means taking that dream vacation may be more attainable now than in the past.

You may be able to save even more by booking at the right time, snagging a mistake fare or flying into a different airport. To find the best deals, you can use an app designed to help people find cheap flights.

The best flight apps offer features that will alert you to price drops, let you search for cheaper travel times or help you find special pricing not found elsewhere.

Try one of these nine discount airfare apps and services that frequent flyers say work for them:

A good flight alert program can simplify the process of finding a deal. These services send emails or notifications whenever there is discounted airfare available to selected destinations, and Going is a favorite source for flight alerts. The company notes that most deals are 40% to 90% off normal prices and says most members save an average of $550 on economy flights.

“(It) is one of the best apps to use when searching for cheap flights,” says Alex Miller, CEO of UpgradedPoints.com. “It can narrow down what city you're located in and then alert you when a qualifying airfare, based on criteria that you set, is found.”

Users can choose from three tiers of service:

Free limited accounts receive alerts about deals on continental U.S. flights.

Premium plans cost $49 a year and include international and domestic economy flights as well as mistake fares and points and miles deals.

Frequent globetrotters may want to spring for the elite plan that provides alerts for economy, business and first-class flights as well as mistake fares from all U.S. airports. It costs $199 per year.

2. Skyscanner

Skyscanner has a free flight app that is compatible with both Apple and Android devices and provides pricing alerts when a good deal becomes available. The app is easy to use and allows you to set alerts for specific dates or routes.

Travelers can also use Skyscanner's calendar and charts to compare hundreds of flights for both international and domestic destinations. The app highlights flights that emit less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, lets users mix and match flights from different carriers and offers a search option that allows travelers to find the best prices for flights originating from their chosen airports.

When you find a flight you like, Skyscanner will direct you to a third-party booking app to make the purchase. In addition to flights, users can search for hotels and car rentals using Skyscanner.

3. Dollar Flight Club

Dollar Flight Club is similar to Going, but it structures its plans differently.

Free accounts get alerted to deals from one departure airport while premium members can choose four departure airports for deal alerts on domestic and international economy flights. Premium membership costs $69 a year. There is also a Premium Plus+ membership that runs $169 per year and includes premium economy and business class deals as well.

The service says booking a single flight using Dollar Flight Club can provide a return of 10 times your investment and that the average savings on a Premium Plus+ flight deal is more than $700.

4. Google Flights

While not currently available as an app, Google Flights offers a simple online interface that allows you to search for flights to specific airports and then see a calendar view that shows when flights will be cheapest. It also has a price graph that allows you to see pricing trends over time.

“You can plug in your start city and then let Google Flights make suggestions on where to fly from there based upon the cost of airfare,” Miller says. That’s a useful tool for travelers with flexibility.

Once you find the right airfare, you'll need to find and book it directly with the carrier or through a third-party booking service.

The Hopper app comes with a variety of tools that can help you find and lock in the best price. It is free to download and use although some features, such as price freezes and the ability to cancel for any reason, come with a fee. However, its core service is to predict future travel prices, something Hopper says it can do with 95% accuracy.

That’s one reason it’s among the best flight apps, according to Kevin Raposo, founder of KnowTechie. He used it to book a vacation to Saint Lucia and says it couldn’t have been easier. “You can do it all at the push of a button,” he says.

For those just browsing on the app – which is available for Apple and Android devices – Hopper will color code flights using green, yellow and red to indicate which flights are most and least expensive.

Compatible with Android and Apple devices, Kiwi promises its app will provide travelers with exclusive offers and prices. It searches for the best rates from all available airlines to piece together the lowest-priced itinerary.

The free app also offers the opportunity to search for all deals from a specific airport, which can be handy for those who are ready to take a vacation but don't have a particular destination in mind. Within the app, users can get price alerts, access mobile boarding passes and view airport maps.

Kiwi also offers travel hacks that can save money, such as bookings with “hidden cities” and a Nomad tool for those who want to visit multiple cities. What's more, the app offers other travel services such as destination guides and the location of Wi-Fi hotspots.

7. ExpertFlyer

The ExpertFlyer website won’t win any design awards. It looks like something from the early days of the internet and even references now-obsolete Blackberry devices. But frequent flyers say that shouldn’t deter you.

“ExpertFlyer is another great tool, though admittedly it's for the more advanced flyer,” Miller says. “Rather than perform ordinary searches to uncover good airfare deals, you can set alerts and search by specific inventory on flights.”

That means that this service is intended for those who know where, when and with which airline they want to fly. If you have a specific route that you travel frequently, ExpertFlyer can help you find discounted fares.

A free version provides seat alerts while a paid pro subscription, which starts at $4.99 per month, comes with additional features such as the ability to search for awards and upgrades.

Airfare apps aren’t only for those booking vacations. Business travelers and their employers are often searching for a good deal as well. That’s the niche Onriva fills.

“We’ve built a platform to bring everything in one place (so) you don’t have to hop from site to site,” says Onriva founder and CEO Vajid Jafri. “This has never existed before.”

While other apps may make it possible to book from multiple companies, they typically serve as a digital travel agency. With Onriva, all bookings are made directly with an airline or other vendor through the app’s platform, which it says can provide savings of 20%. For added convenience, Onriva also provides customer service.

The app brings together travel options from more than three million suppliers and then uses artificial intelligence to learn user preferences and make recommendations.

Anyone with a business email address can sign up for an Onriva account, but you’ll have to request a demo to get pricing information.

9. Your Favorite Airline’s App

In your search for cheap flights, don’t overlook your favorite airline’s app. Booking direct can sometimes be the best option, according to Sandra McLemore, a travel industry expert and TV host.

“While these (third-party) apps may feel convenient and more user-friendly than other online booking options, buyer beware,” McLemore says. If you buy your tickets through that third-party app, you may find it difficult to receive customer service should any issues arise.

“An airline will send you right back to the app or online booking engine to receive service,” McLemore points out.

Also, by focusing your spending with a specific airline you may find it easier to accumulate frequent flyer miles, which you can redeem for free flights and therefore save more money in the long run.

Drive or Fly This Summer?

Jessica Walrack May 7, 2024

Tags: money , personal finance , Travel , Airlines , personal budgets

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Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

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