Travellers are increasingly turning to apps for vital information and inspiration while on the road. Here are our top picks.
LoungeBuddy
If you find yourself about to spend an extended amount of time at an airport, you might as well do it in style. Many airport lounges accept travellers even if they’re not travelling in first or business class, the art is in knowing what lounge you might have access to, and that’s where Lounge Buddy comes in handy. Once you’ve completed an online profile, which includes airline, hotel and credit card loyalty schemes, the app will locate the most suitable oasis for you to settle down in comfort. The app details the amenities of each lounge, from workspaces to shower facilities, and also indicates if there are any time restraints of additional fees incurred. www.loungebuddy.com
Great for: travellers bound for unfamiliar airports.
FlightStats
If you’re meeting someone at the airport, anticipating delays, or hate leaving things to chance, FlightStats not only allows you to monitor selected flights but also check on how busy an airport is before you arrive, and check a destination’s weather forecast. Customise the app and set alerts for arrival and departure information, and read airline and airport reviews to discover their perks and weaknesses. Flying doesn’t have to be hard when you know what to expect, and FlightStats is sure to help you out. www.flightstats.com
Great for: nervous and frantic (or time-pressed) travellers.
MileBlaster
Collect and organise all those loyalty membership numbers with one handy travel app. Mile Blaster helps you collect and spend those hard-earned travel miles wisely, from hotel points to air miles. The simplistic but effective app updates travellers with the latest deals and miles-to-rewards conversions, and can even calculate the best awards you can get given your previous and current flying data. Think ahead and transfer, upgrade, cash in, or even win free tickets with your collected miles. www.mileblaster.com
Great for: points junkies with plenty of memberships