Posted on May 29, 2009 by Fiona Hilliard

iPhone and ‘smart phone’ applications are revolutionising the way we travel.  From keeping track of airport delays to finding out where the nearest petrol station is, there’s no excuse for travel nightmares these days.  The following are what we consider to be ‘must haves’ – click on the links to download. 

Weather Channel:  Your iPhone comes equipped with a pre-programmed weather feature but its accuracy tends to be a bit hit and miss.  Users can download the Weather Channel through iTunes, complete with a GPS locator for receiving current weather updates, no matter where you are in the world.  You can also pre-program destinations with this application which makes upcoming trips much easier to prepare for.

Currency:  The currency calculator is pre-loaded in your iPhone.  It will automatically calculate the local currency exchange, based on current exchange rates.

Translator:  There’s nothing worse than getting lost in your rental car and not being able to ask for directions.  You can learn a number of simple phrases before you go but trying to remember them when you’re high and dry is another thing.  It’s by far easier to consult your online translator for help, when and wherever you’re stuck in a jam.  This application is a saviour.  Not only does it translate for you, it also tells you how to pronounce the phrases you’re looking for.

Airport Status: Flying to/within the US? Keep up-to-date with ground delays and gate changes at US airports with this free travel application.  A quick log into the system and you’ll know immediately what airports in your US destination are delayed, why they are delayed and how long they the delays are expected to last.

Around Me: Hardly any free applications offer you ‘things to do’ based on your location.  This one does exactly what it says on the tin.  AroundMe points out the nearest ATM or bank, petrol station, hospitals and restaurants.  You enter your query either by distance or alphabetically by business name.  A Google map appears to give you street by street directions to your destination.