5 Tips for Using Technology While You Travel

5 Tips for Using Technology While You Travel

Twitter

While many people still consider Twitter a place to post pictures of their lunch and hear from their favourite celebrities, the site has become an invaluable tool for communicating with large companies who keep a close eye on any negative PR. The best examples are airlines, who are often faster in responding to tweets than via phone or even in person! If your flight gets cancelled or you have problems with online check-in, don't be afraid to voice your complaint.

Facebook

Heading to Cape Town to take in the view from Table Mountain? Did you know you can win free tickets on their Facebook page? How about the Minnesota State Fair, who's page offers giveaways for the nightly concerts? Check out your destinations and events before you go, and even if you can't score free stuff, you'll get the heads up on anything new and exciting and have the chance to ask questions.

Groupon

You've probably used Groupon (or similar group-buying sites) at home, but have you considered using it while you're on vacation? Sign up for email alerts for the cities you plan to visit, and you may come out with a half-price dinner or discounted amusement park ticket. Best to do this a few months in advance, but look carefully at terms and conditions... especially expiration dates!

Skype

Skype has always been a great tool for communicating with people halfway around the world, and with the rise of smartphones and tablets it's become even more convenient. Take advantage of the free wifi offered in many coffeeshops, bars, and other places to say hi to loved ones, or check in at the office.

Apps

We've done several posts on terrific travel apps, but the best ones are often specific to your location. Have a connection Amsterdam Schiphol? Download their free app to check your departure gate and flight status. There are also great nightlife and event apps available for most major cities, and even tour guides for museums and historical sites. It pays to check out the attraction's website (or contact them on Facebook) to find out if they have one... it can be a great freebie!

Top 5 iPhone Travel Apps

There's no denying technology is changing how people travel, and there are new and exciting advances every day that make seeing the world easier... and more fun! Here's our favourite iPhone travel apps to help you on your next trip:

TripIt Travel Organiser – This handy app organises all your itinerary info into one place for easy access throughout your trip. (Free)

Flying Without Fear – Virgin Atlantic’s highly regarded course to help nervous travellers overcome their fear of flying has a 98% success rate. ($5)

FlightTrack – This is the most recommended app out there for keeping track of your flights with real-time updates on gates, delays, and cancellations in more than 5,000 airports worldwide. ($5)

Currency – You’ll always know how much you’re spending when you use this no-frills money calculator. It provides up-to-date exchange rate info at your fingertips. (Free)

Trip Journal – A great way to keep friends and family updated (and jealous) on your holiday activities. You can track your route, tag locations, and insert photos and notes into real-time updates. ($3)

Got a Blackberry or Android phone? Click on the links for their best travel apps!

(photo by Gonzalo Baeza Hernández)