9 business travel apps for road warriors
Want a number five with extra fries, but don’t feel like getting it yourself? There’s an app for that.
Do you wonder what your cat would look like if you swapped faces? There’s an app for that.
Looking for a new way to manage your business travel? There’s an app for that, too.
Actually, there are A LOT of apps for that.
In today's digital age, there's an app for just about everything – even corporate travel. But with the plethora of options available, the question isn't whether there's an app for business travel; it's how to identify the right ones.
Lucky for you, we have a few favourites. But first…
Are business travel apps really worth it?
YES! A million times, yes.
Business travel apps have revolutionized the way we approach corporate travel, offering a range of benefits that make the entire experience smoother and more manageable than your corporate travel booking software alone. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a travel manager looking to improve your arsenal, these 9 apps can save you time, reduce stress, and enhance your overall travel journey.
Ready to business travel like a pro? There are 9 apps for that:
1. Melon
One platform. A world of travel.
Imagine a world of travel management where tech and people work collectively. Where you can look, book and report, all in one platform. Now imagine you can access that platform anywhere, anytime, from any device.
Meet Melon.
Melon is a comprehensive travel planning and management app that goes beyond the basics. With features like real-time flight status tracking, itinerary organization, and instant updates on delays or gate changes, Melon gives you all your travel needs on one simple business travel platform.
Whether you're hopping between time zones or coordinating multiple meetings, Melon ensures that you stay on top of your schedule.
Wherever you are in the world, Melon does the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: English
- Pricing: Included for Corporate Traveller customers, free to download.
2. LoungeBuddy
Elevating comfort and productivity
Long layovers can be exhausting, but LoungeBuddy transforms them into opportunities for relaxation and productivity. This business travel app finds airport lounges that match your preferences, allowing you to unwind, catch up on work, or network in a comfortable and quiet environment – no memberships, elite statuses, or first-class tickets required. Starting from $25, you can purchase a lounge and board your next flight refreshed and ready to crush your business goals.
- Platforms supported: iOS
- Languages supported: English
- Pricing: Free to use, booking lounge incurs lounge fees (location specific)
3. TripAdvisor
Your ultimate travel companion
TripAdvisor is a household name when it comes to personal ventures. But did you know it also offers valuable tips and insights tailored to the needs of professionals on the go?
With authentic first-hand reviews, valuable suggestions, and transparent star ratings, business travellers can effortlessly uncover local hotspots and make informed decisions about where to dine, relax, or explore during downtime.
When time is of the essence (and let’s face it, on business trips, it often is) this common yet powerful travel app streamlines the process, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience even in the midst of a busy itinerary.
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: English, Arabic, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Bokmål, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Serbian, Simplified Chinese, Slovak, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Traditional Chinese, Turkish, Vietnamese
- Pricing: Free to browse, 5-20% booking fee added automatically when booking
4. GetYourGuide
Putting the leisure in bleisure
Business travel doesn't have to be all work, no play. GetYourGuide allows you to infuse leisure and cultural experiences into your corporate journey. With GetYourGuide, you can book local tours and activities, exploring the authentic essence of the destinations you visit after a long day of meetings and conferences.
This business travel management app reminds us that life doesn't pause just because you’re somewhere on business. You might as well enjoy your stay – GetYourGuide is here to help you make the most of it.
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: English, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Norwegian Bokmål, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swedish
- Pricing: Free to use
5. CityMapper
Your navigational expert
Navigating public transit in a new city can be daunting, to say the least. That’s where CityMapper comes to the rescue.
This app isn't just about getting from point A to B; it's about optimizing your route.
Available in major cities across North America, Asia, and Europe, CityMapper finds the quickest and most convenient routes to your destination(s). With real-time updates on transit options, estimated travel times, and even the number of stops you're willing to make, CityMapper is an essential companion for business travellers on the move.
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Spanish, Traditional Chinese, Turkish
- Pricing: Free to use (with ads).
6. iTalki
The virtual city of Babel
In the global business landscape, effective communication is key. iTalki connects you with native speakers for language learning, allowing you to enhance your language skills and bridge cultural gaps without relying on Google Translate. Whether you're brushing up on your negotiation tactics or simply aiming to connect with locals on a deeper level, iTalki prepares you to navigate language barriers with confidence.
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: Trust us...there are a lot.
- Pricing: Pay per lesson, prices vary by instructor
7. Google Maps
Needs no introduction
You’ve probably used this one before! A familiar favourite, Google Maps remains a go-to navigation app for business travellers and average commuters alike. Beyond offering online and offline navigation, it enables you to pin destinations, share locations, and compare transportation options. Google Maps is an essential tool in your business travel arsenal. After all, it’s popular for a reason!
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: Over 30 languages, including English, Arabic, Catalan, French, Spanish, Turkish, German, Hebrew, Hindi, and Simplified Chinese (just to name a few!)
- Pricing: Free to use
8. Ride-sharing
The modern way to travel
Let’s be real – cabs are as good as obsolete and public transport isn’t always a feasible (or favourable) option. In 2023 and beyond, a reliable ride-sharing service is a must-have in any selection of business travel software.
However, there’s no obvious winner here. The “best app” varies by city and/or country. For example, Uber and Lyft have international notoriety that promises reliable, efficient transportation just about anywhere. The issue is they’re not legal everywhere.
Jetting overseas to an event in Geneva or Brno? You’ll have better luck sticking with FreeNow, a leader in many European cities, including those where other apps, such as Uber, are not available.
| Uber | Lyft | FreeNow | |
| Platforms supported | iOS, Android | iOS, Android | iOS, Android |
| Languages Supported | Over 40 languages, including English, Arabic, French, German, Spanish, Hebrew, Hindi, Simplified Chinese, Russian, and Greek | English, French, Portuguese, Simplified Chinese, Spanish | English, Catalan, French, German, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Spanish, Ukrainian |
| Pricing | Free to use, no subscription needed. Pay per trip. | Free to use, no subscription needed. Pay per trip. | Free to use, no subscription needed. Pay per trip. |
9. SpotHero
Park like a pro
Finding a parking spot in unfamiliar terrain is not for the faint of heart – especially in bustling metropolises like New York (shudder).
Luckily, SpotHero allows you to secure your parking space before you even set foot in the city.
No more circling around in search of a vacant spot – now you can browse and book parking options conveniently in advance and easily compare rates for parking lots, garages, and nearby public facilities. Although not your traditional business travel management software, SpotHero still empowers you to take control of your parking needs, transforming what used to be a source of frustration into an effortless part of your business travel experience.
It’s safe to say SpotHero has earned the last half of its name.
- Platforms supported: iOS, Android
- Languages supported: English
- Pricing: Free to use, pay per parking session
Ready to elevate your business travel game?
Not only does Corporate Traveller have the best travel talent around, but we’ve gone and upgraded our corporate travel management platform.
We’re all about making business travel easier. Book a meeting today to find out why you’ll love Melon.
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