The wheels of progress continue to turn, and whether you’re an iPhone type or Google Android or Windows 8, smartphones can make traveling a whole lot easier. If you’re planning a fall trip, or if you want to know what the latest apps are to enable better gas-efficient driving, these five apps can be helpful to any traveler. Even better, the price is right, because they’re all free.
1. Trapster
Created in 2008, Trapster is a free app that helps you avoid speed traps and other roadway hazards. Trapster users submit a tip anytime they spot speed traps, enforcement cameras, road hazards, or other such ”traps,” and those tips then alert all Trapster users in the area. Trapster is advertised as “a high-tech version of flashing your headlights to alert drivers of potential road hazards.”
2. Waze
Waze is a free GPS app that features turn-by-turn voice directions and updates based on traffic conditions. OK, I know what you’re thinking: “I don’t need a GPS app, I already have one…” Well, stick with me here, because what Waze does is a little more sophisticated. Beyond all the basic stuff, Waze users can also manually send in traffic updates, and those appear as pop-up alerts to fellow drivers. Think of it as the GPS version of Trapster. So, if you’re driving along the highway, you may get a Waze pop-up notification from a driver two miles ahead of you who sees an accident. From the app, “Wazers” can report anything that might cause a slowdown in traffic: traffic jams, speed traps, construction, you name it. This definitely isn’t your everyday GPS.
3. GasBuddy
The GasBuddy app is the mobile version of the GasBuddy website, which helps you find the best deals on gas with one click—or one touch, as the case may be. The app shows you gas prices from all the stations in your area, as well as the distance to each. It couldn’t be simpler, and it couldn’t be handier. Get this one right away.
4. TripTik
TripTik is a road trip app from AAA, but you’ll find it useful even if you’re not a member. TripTik will locate office locations and AAA-approved attractions such as restaurants, hotels, and campsites. If you’re a member, you can also contact AAA’s roadside assistance from within the app. It also offers rudimentary driving directions and gas prices, but these features aren’t as robust or accurate as some of the other apps on this list.
5. Gas Cubby
My list wouldn’t be complete without an app that helps you keep track of all your automotive costs. Gas Cubby stories your car-related expenses in one place. The interface is streamlined and user friendly, you can manage multiple vehicles easily, and it even helps you stay on top of service intervals. All you need to do is enter service dates, costs, locations, and the other details of your ongoing maintenance expenses. You can also track your gas mileage and fuel costs by inputting the date, odometer reading, and gas cost each time you fill up; you can even include specifics like locations, brand, octane rating, and fuel types. I like Gas Cubby because it’s a very robust little app that lets you track only the information you care about in as much or as little detail as you’d like. If you have a keen eye for automotive finances, this app is definitely for you, and it’s free (for iPhone only).
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