These Free Google Tools and Apps Can Make Travel Easier
Few search engines are as popular as Google. Perfect for researching how to complete a task, where something is located, or getting answers to a random question, Google’s search feature is unmatched.
The tech giant is not just a one-stop for answering questions or sharing information, it’s also a great place for travelers. Many of its tools are extremely useful for travel and can make trip planning easier. These four Google tools can help you plan your next trip.
Search via Google Flights
The Google Flights tool is a must-try for travelers. The tool cross-searches multiple airlines around the world and offers trip planners flight options in one place. It’s one of the best tools for finding flights and lists most of the world’s major airlines, including all the major United States-based airlines.
To use it, travelers just enter their desired destination, along with dates, and Google displays a list of available flights that match the criteria. It’s easy to compare flight times, prices, and layover options. The tool also allows users to set price alerts so that if and when a price drops, Google notifies the traveler.
Google Travel Explore
Google Travel Explore is a powerful tool that allows travelers to discover destinations based on their date or destination. Instead of refining the when and the where the explore tool allows users to choose one and go from there. For example, if a person wants to travel for a week in September, but is open to destinations, the Explore tool will share which destinations fit their budget.
To use Google Travel Explore, travelers simply enter their departure city or desired travel dates, and then use filters to narrow the budget.
Maps
Google Maps features can be a helpful must-have for any traveler in several scenarios. The tool offers detailed maps and directions that can help a person navigate unfamiliar or new locations and also displays traffic in real-time.
Google Maps also shares information about public transportation and offers a street view for a more clear and accurate depiction of the area. Travelers can even find lists of recommendations from locals as well as expert-curated lists of local places to eat in many major cities. Another great capability of the tool is the option to download any map. This can help travelers avoid getting lost in times when connectivity is low or unavailable.
Translate
Language can be a challenge while traveling, especially for international travel. Google Translate is an app that helps lessen that barrier by allowing users to translate speech and text. Travelers can utilize the tool by opening the translate tab in Google and typing or saying what they want to have translated. Once the language and “translated to” language are set, the tool is pretty simple to use.
Travelers can use it to communicate with locals in their preferred language, translate and better understand road signs, order food from menus in other languages, and more.
Google offers several useful tools that travelers can bring along on their next trip. Each of these tools and travel-centric apps can make planning easier, helping you feel more confident and prepared for the journey.
