Google Maps
If you’re not using Google Maps, you’re really missing out. This
is probably Google’s most popular app, next to Gmail. Google
Maps is reliable and precise, and features everything you need
to get from point A to point B safely and efficiently. The app’s
turn-by-turn navigation is detailed and accurate—it's hard to
believe we ever lived without such a luxury. The map compass
feature shows you which way you’re pointing your device, which
is useful when you’re walking around unfamiliar cities. Lastly, the public transportation
instructions are a godsend for navigating big cities like New York or San Francisco.
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For Navigating
Apple Maps
(Free)
Apple Maps comes second to Google Maps in
our roundup, but not by
much. After a highly publicized, buggy
rollout, Apple Maps has redeemed itself
with a reliable and beautiful interface.
Waze Social GPS, Maps
& Traffic
(Free)
Waze uses crowd-sourced
information from its users
to bring you real-time mapping, traffic, and
navigation information. Join its 70 million
users in the fight to outsmart traffic!
Hip Trip – Offline Maps
& Guides
(Free)
Specifically designed for
travel, HipTrip features
offline maps for thousands of places all
over the world and includes corresponding Wikipedia information about each city.
Pocket Guide
(Free)
Want an audio tour of
Paris, Shanghai, or Rio
de Janeiro? Pocket Guide
has audio tours for more than 100 major
cities worldwide. Specific tours are available for $5.99 via in-app purchase.
Everplaces
(Free)
Everplaces is a personal
memory tool that helps
you create your own customized city guides, bookmark memorable spots you find in your travels, and
share tips and maps with friends.
Uber
(Free)
Give this innovative car
service app a try. Once
you request a ride, you’ll
see how far away the driver is from you.
When you’re done, you can pay, tip, and
rate your ride through the app.
Zipcar
(Free)
Reserve a car for temporary use with Zipcar. You
can reserve and pay for a
car near your location, and even honk its
horn and unlock its doors with the app if
you’re having trouble finding it!
Lyft
(Free)
This transportation network is highly active in
many U.S. cities. It’s a
great way to find an affordable ride from
community members (all drivers undergo
background checks).
Gaia GPS
($19.99)
Gaia GPS hosts outdoor
maps with detailed hiking and backpacking
trails that are continually updated. You
can sync your tracks, photos, and maps
across different devices.
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Use Google Maps Street View to familiarize yourself with the neighborhood you're visiting.
When you arrive at your destination, you’ll feel a little more situated and be less likely to get lost. Pr; Tip
