Must Have Travel Apps

Smartphones, iPads, iPods, and just about any device that can support apps are widely popular. While there are some apps that can be used for social networking or gaming, there are also apps that can really be useful, especially for those who are traveling.

Here's a list of the best (mostly free) apps for all of your travel needs.

Gas Prices

The free GasBuddy app allows you to search for gas prices by city, state, zip code and provides directions to nearby gas stations. With this app, you can see which gas stations nearby offer the best prices while you're on the road.

Last minute deals on hotels

Hotel Tonight (free) provides you with same-day deals on hotel rooms in major cities. They'll post specials at noon, giving you enough time to find a deal for a hotel to check into that day. This app provide information, photos, and price information about the hotels and allow you to book a room right from the app. They categorize hotels through their own labels of Luxe, Hip, Solid, Basic, and Charming.

Wi-Fi Finder

If you want to stay connected with your Wi-Fi-based devices, the Free Wi-Fi Finder app will provide you with a list of free Wi-Fi locations such as hotels, restaurants, airlines, stores and others around the country and the world.

Alternative Wi-Fi

If the Wi-Fi connection you're using at an airport or restaurant doesn't suffice, download Skype Wi-Fi, which will provide a Wi-Fi connection at millions of locations including hotels and airports around the world. Prices start at 6 cents per minute and you are only charged for the minutes that you are connected. There is no data limit, so you can upload or download anything you like.

Avoid Roaming Charges

If you want to use your cell phone abroad for texting and calls, you might return home to an overly expensive phone bill. Skype's app allows you to make free phone calls and send texts through a Wi-Fi connection.

Shopping Locations

MapMuse's Shopping and Outlet Mall locator app($2.99) will find you the nearest malls and outlet centers all around the country. It also provides directions and lists store directories and hours.

Currency Exchange

If you're not sure how many Euros are equal to a dollar, or you're wondering about any other currency exchange, the free Currency app provides you with up-to-date exchange rates for up to 200 countries.

Public Bathrooms

When you gotta go, you gotta go, but you might not be quite sure where when you're away from home. SitOrSquat: Restroom Finder, (free) tells you where the nearest public bathrooms are and even allows you to search for specific facility features such as handicap access or changing tables. If the restroom is clean and decent, they'll rate is as a "Sit" spot or they'll tell you to "Squat" and look for a better location.

Translation

Google Translate (free) provides you with a translations of words and phrases in more than 60 languages. Some languages allow you to speak into the app and hear a translation.

Flight Delays

The free Flightboard app will turn your device into an Arrivals and Departures board and provide you with up-to-date times so you can know if your flight is delayed and when it will leave or arrive.

Packing

Pack the Bag (free) breaks luggage down into categories and includes even the little things like sunscreen and sunglasses. It also allows you to set a reminder to tell you when to start packing for your trip.

Trip Organizer

The Tripit travel organizer app (free) is like your own personal travel agent. Email them confirmations for flights, rental cars, train tickets, and hotels, and the app will provide you with a detailed itinerary that is accessible through your device. You can also forward the plan to your family.