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Essential smartphone, tablet apps for frequent fliers

These mobile apps will help you keep track of expenses, stay connected, and make the most out of your trip abroad.
By Charlie Osborne, Contributing Writer
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1 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

Skyscanner

Before taking off on your next trip, it's worth checking out different deals to make sure you're making the most of your money.

One of the most efficient apps out there is Skyscanner, which scans hundreds of airline booking systems to find deals, times, different dates and connection choices for fliers, whether booked in advance or at the last minute.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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2 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

KAYAK

KAYAK is another app for finding flights, in addition to booking a car or hotel. The app has a useful itinerary section to keep your next trip organized, and can be set to issue an alert if your flight is subject to delays.

As a 'one-stop shop' for travel bookings, the app also includes handy features such as price predictions and terminal maps.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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3 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

FlightAware

For frequent fliers to the US and Canada, FlightAware is a good app to have installed on your smartphone or tablet.

The app allows users to track departure and arrival flights in real-time through aircraft registration, route, airline, flight number, city pair, or airport code. The maps are quite addicting to watch.

Price: $Free (in-app purchases)

OS: Android | iOS

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4 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

Seat Alerts

No-one likes being allocated the middle seat when aboard a packed plane, and if flying is a common occurrence, you may want to know if another seat becomes available.

Seat Alert will monitor your flight right up to departure. You can use the app to look up maps of your flight's seating areas and receive alerts when other seats can be booked.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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5 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

LoungeBuddy

The LoungeBuddy app takes out the confusion when it comes to booking airport lounges and allows users to pay for access on the go.

Once your travel plans, memberships, and card details have been submitted, the app will tell you which lounges you can access either for free or for a fee.

Price: $Free

OS: iOS

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6 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

MyTSA

MyTSA is a useful application for those flying to the US and taking domestic flights. The app can be used to check security procedures and items allowed in carry-on bags, how busy an airport's security lines generally are based on historical data, keep an eye on any reported delays, and users can also access a live TSA assistant if they have questions.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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7 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

TripIt travel organizer

TripIt is a travel and itinerary organizer which may be useful for frequent fliers. As you book flights, hotels, and services, you can forward confirmation emails to the app which will create a detailed itinerary comprising of the information you need -- such as addresses and booking numbers -- to simplify your trip.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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8 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor is an excellent app for finding local hotspots of note, tourist feedback, hints and tips, and is also a platform for booking hotels, tours, restaurant recommendations, and more.

The TripAdvisor community is worldwide and photos, commentary, and review ratings can help you make the most of your spare time on your next trip abroad.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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9 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

Yelp

Yelp has an active community which offers reviews for millions of local establishments and services worldwide. You can check reviews for local restaurants and takeaways, in particular, and can also order meals directly from the app.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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10 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

Google Maps

Google Maps can be a lifesaver when you are abroad and in unfamiliar areas. You can use the app not only to direct you on the go, but you can also download local maps ahead of time.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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11 of 11 Charlie Osborne/ZDNET

XE Currency

XE Currency is a key app for frequent travelers. The mobile app can be used to convert currencies used across the world, making sure you understand how much you are paying for services and products abroad.

Price: $Free

OS: Android | iOS

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