Updated May 2025
Originally published March 2017
Backpacking is way easier (and way more fun) than it used to be – and that’s largely thanks to travel apps. Whether you're hunting down a cheap flight, finding a last-minute hostel, or just trying to locate a decent public loo, there's an app to help.
This post was first published in 2017 – but in the fast-moving world of travel tech, a lot has changed. We’ve reviewed and rebuilt the list from the ground up to reflect the best apps for backpackers in 2025. (Some originals didn’t make the cut – RIP SitOrSquat and Trail Wallet – but we’ve found stronger replacements.)
Here are 11 must-have travel apps for backpackers in 2025 – tested, relevant, and 100% worth the download.
No more lost email confirmations or dodgy note-keeping. TripIt builds a master itinerary from your bookings – just forward your emails to plans@tripit.com. You’ll get instant updates, gate changes, and flight delay alerts. Think of it as your free, pocket-sized travel agent.
Standing in front of something cool but have no idea what it is? Open Wikitude, point your phone, and the app pulls info from Wikipedia, TripAdvisor, and more. Perfect for spontaneous city explorations and cultural deep dives.
maps.me lets you download entire country or city maps for offline navigation – a game changer when you're off-grid, in the outback, or battling dodgy hostel Wi-Fi. Includes walking trails, points of interest, and directions without the data drain.
When nature calls, Flush helps you find the closest public bathroom – no matter where you are. It’s fast, free, and updated by users around the world. You’ll thank yourself when you’re deep in a city you don’t know and time is of the essence.
More than just a vegan app, HappyCow helps you find top-rated dishes and cheap eats anywhere. Browse photos, filter by cuisine or diet, and avoid tourist traps. Ideal if you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free – or just hungry.
Whether you’re in a hostel common room or parked up in a van with new mates, Picolo is the ultimate drinking game app. It throws out hilarious dares, challenges and drink commands – and gets everyone talking fast.
WiFi Map shows free Wi-Fi spots all over the world – cafes, libraries, airports, and more. It even lists passwords shared by other travellers. A must-have for anyone travelling on a budget without a roaming SIM.
Plan beach days, hikes or transport around real-time radar maps and forecasts. MyRadar is simple, accurate, and includes cool features like storm tracking and wind animation. You’ll never be caught in a surprise downpour again.
One of the best travel planning tools around. Rome2Rio finds the best way to get from anywhere to anywhere – and compares buses, trains, ferries, flights and driving routes. Perfect for building itineraries or solving travel puzzles on the go.
Forget the spreadsheets. TravelSpend tracks your expenses by category, supports over 200 currencies, and helps you stay on top of your daily budget. It’s easy to use and stops that awful end-of-trip “where did my money go?” moment.
Travello is a social network for travellers. Find people nearby, join local events or meetups, and swap tips. Great for solo travellers, new arrivals, or anyone looking to meet road trip or hostel buddies.
Whether you’re off on a New Zealand roadie, chasing sun on Australia’s East Coast, or wandering through Southeast Asia – these apps will make your trip smoother, cheaper and more connected.
Got another must-have app we should add to the list? Drop us a message – we’re always up for discovering the next travel game-changer.
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