The Best 11 Apps for Backpacking

Backpacking and traveling often require a lot of planning, but with the right resources, it can be much simpler and more enjoyable. Through my travels, I’ve discovered several apps that have been absolute lifesavers, helping me book accommodations, find activities, and even meet people. Having these tools at your fingertips is incredibly convenient, especially as travel becomes more accessible worldwide. Here’s a list of my go-to travel apps that I regularly use while on the road.

Booking.com

First on the list is Booking.com, one of the most-used apps on my phone. I rely on it to book both flights and accommodations, and there are several reasons why I find it so helpful.

For one, the platform offers hundreds of reviews, photos, and detailed descriptions, making it easy to pick accommodations that suit your vibe. It has an extensive range of filters that allow you to narrow down options by price, type of stay, location, or amenities.

Another huge advantage of Booking.com is the option to prepay with a credit card. In many countries, especially in Asia and South America, cash payments are the norm, and some places charge extra for card payments. Booking.com almost always has an option that lets you avoid this hassle by prepaying online, which is a lifesaver for travelers who want to earn credit card points or prefer the convenience of cashless transactions.

Lastly, frequent users of Booking.com benefit from discounts. The platform rewards loyalty, offering larger discounts as your account status improves. These deals can make a significant difference, especially for budget travelers. Booking.com is a one-stop shop for booking flights, accommodations, car rentals, and more!

Hostelworld

If you’re staying in hostels or homestays, Hostelworld is a fantastic app to explore your options. I often use Hostelworld to research hostels and then cross-check the options on Booking.com to make my final booking.

What sets Hostelworld apart is its focus on backpacker-friendly accommodations. The reviews and insights are often from like-minded travelers, giving you a clearer picture of the vibe and community at each location. Hostelworld also offers a unique group chat feature. When you book a hostel, you’re added to a group chat for the hostel and the city two weeks before your stay. This helps you connect with other travelers, discover activities, and get recommendations before you even arrive.

Hostelworld’s flexible payment system is another plus. You can secure your booking with a small deposit and pay the rest in cash or by card upon arrival. This is perfect for travelers who might have last-minute changes to their plans.

Transportation Apps (Grab, Uber, Bolt, Gojek)

Transportation can vary widely depending on where you are, so knowing the go-to app for your destination is key. Apps like Grab, Uber, Bolt, and Gojek are essential for getting around and even for food delivery.

For example, in Thailand, Grab is the most popular choice. Whether you need a taxi, a motorbike ride, or a meal delivered, Grab makes it easy to book and pay with cash or card. Each app is region-specific, so it’s worth researching the best option before you arrive. Having these apps ready ensures smooth, hassle-free transportation wherever you go.

12GoAsia

When it comes to booking transportation in Asia, 12GoAsia is my go-to app. It’s incredibly reliable for arranging buses, trains, ferries, and more. What I love most about 12GoAsia is the level of detail they provide. After booking, you’ll receive a comprehensive itinerary with departure times, seat assignments, and precise meeting and drop-off points. This level of organization is invaluable in regions like Southeast Asia, where transportation options are abundant but can sometimes be confusing to navigate.