Heading to an unfamiliar city for spring break this year? Download a few of these apps before you go for an easier and more exciting family vacation.
Heading to an unfamiliar city for spring break this year? Download these free apps before you go.
Plotter (free, iPhone) is a map app mixed with the benefits ofsocial media. Before heading out for the day, you can plot yourfamily’s full itenerary on a map so you always know where to gonext. Then, create paths so you know the best route to get there.Save each map in your own personal map room in case you need toreference it later.
And if you need recommendations, you can ask your Facebook orTwitter friends for ideas.
The History Channel’s History Here app (free, iPhone, Android)is great if you’re trying to sneak in an educational twist for yourkids over break. The app is map based and filled with info, photosand video for the historic locations you’ll encounter on your trip.We tested it out on our iPhone around some of our favorite Chicagospots and loved it. The app is easy to use so even the kids canplay tour guide for a while.
We all know family vacation can be a bit hectic. Field Trip(Free, iPhone and Android) is great because you don’t have toremember to use it. Instead of keeping your phone out and the appopen waiting for something interesting to happen, Field Trip willalert you when you’re close to something your family mightlike.
We tested out Field Trip in Chicago and liked that we couldchoose what kinds of “interesting” alerts we wanted. Categoriesrange from historic places and museums to food deals. Our favoritethough? “Cool & Unique”. The kids will love it.
Sometimes we need a break from the museums, amusement parks andtourist hot spots. Try Oh Ranger! Park Finder (Free, iPhone andAndroid) on your next vacation for a little bit of time in nature.We love Oh Ranger! because you can search for parks that fit theactivities your family wants to do, whether that’s boating, fishingor just picnicing.
Sure, we always think to use deal sites at home, but don’tforget to use those apps when you’re on vacation to save a fewbucks.
One of our favorites is Living Social (Free, iPhone and Android). Simply switch your location to wherever you’re
spending your time off and look for deals. We like Living Social
because it is easy to navigate and tends to have more
family-friendly activity and meal deals, but Groupon and Google Offers are
good apps to have downloaded, too.
