Usually I write about travel to Germany, but in this sponsored post, Julie shares some great tips on the apps Germans might want to put on their phones before traveling to America. And they don’t just work for Germans! Everyone traveling in the US can use these.
The United States is a land of immense diversity and scale, a country where a simple road trip can take you through vastly different landscapes, cultures and even climates. For German travelers accustomed to efficient public transport, compact cities and a more uniform infrastructure, navigating the sprawling American landscape can feel like a grand adventure and sometimes, a little daunting. Thankfully, your smartphone can be your most powerful tool. So let’s take a look at the must-have apps for German Travelers exploring America.
Your personal navigator
Unlike many European countries, the U.S. is heavily car-centric, and knowing how to get from A to B is paramount.
- Google Maps (iOS/Android): This is your absolute non-negotiable. Google Maps offers incredibly accurate turn-by-turn navigation for driving, public transport (where available in major cities), walking and even cycling. Its ability to download offline maps is a lifesaver, ensuring you can navigate even without a data connection, which is particularly useful in national parks or rural areas. Beyond directions, it’s brilliant for finding gas stations, restaurants, supermarkets and opening hours.
- Waze (iOS/Android): For those planning to rent a car, Waze is a game-changer. It’s a community-driven navigation app that provides real-time traffic updates, alerts for road hazards, accidents, and even police presence. This can save you valuable time stuck in traffic jams and potentially help you avoid unwanted tickets.
- Uber / Lyft (iOS/Android): In most American cities, these ride-sharing apps are your best friends if you don’t have a car. They offer a convenient, cashless way to get around, especially when public transport is limited or you’re out late. You can see your fare estimate before booking and track your driver’s arrival, adding a layer of security and transparency.
Bridge the miles, not the bills
Staying in touch with family, friends, and handling bookings requires reliable internet access.
- WhatsApp (iOS/Android): While perhaps not as ubiquitous for local US communication as it is in Germany, WhatsApp remains vital for connecting with your contacts back home. It’s the standard for many Germans, allowing free messaging and calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data, making international communication effortless.
- Holafly global eSIM (eSIM-compatible devices): To avoid the shock of international roaming charges, an eSIM is a smart solution. Holafly offers global eSIMs that provide dedicated data plans for your travels in the USA. This means you can keep your German number active for calls/texts from home while enjoying consistent, affordable internet access on a local network, all without the hassle of buying or swapping physical SIM cards. It’s perfect for seamless navigation, sharing photos, and staying updated on the go.
Accommodation at your fingertips
Booking your lodging in advance or on the fly is made easy with these apps.
- Booking.com / Hotels.com / Expedia (iOS/Android): These are the powerhouses of hotel booking. They offer vast inventories of hotels, motels and resorts across the US, allowing you to compare prices, read thousands of user reviews, and filter by amenities, price and location. Loyalty programs can also offer perks and discounts.
- Airbnb (iOS/Android): If you prefer a more unique, local experience or are traveling with family/a group, Airbnb is an excellent choice. It allows you to book apartments, houses, or rooms directly from local hosts, often providing more space and amenities like kitchens, which can help save on food costs.
Dining made easy
America’s food scene is incredibly diverse. These apps help you find exactly what you’re craving.
- Yelp (iOS/Android): This is your ultimate guide to finding local businesses, especially restaurants, cafes and bars. Yelp provides millions of user reviews, ratings, photos, and filters (e.g., cuisine type, price range, outdoor seating) to help you discover everything from a quick bite to a fine dining experience.
- OpenTable (iOS/Android): For popular restaurants, especially in major cities or during peak dining times, reservations are often recommended. OpenTable allows you to quickly find available times and book tables directly from the app, avoiding long waits.
- DoorDash / Uber Eats / Grubhub (iOS/Android): If you’re tired after a long day of sightseeing and just want to relax at your hotel, these food delivery apps are incredibly convenient. They bring meals from a wide selection of local restaurants directly to your door.
Smart spending abroad
Keeping track of your budget and exchanging currency is crucial for stress-free travel.
- XE Currency Converter (iOS/Android): While credit cards are widely accepted in the US, it’s always good to have a quick way to understand prices in Euros. XE Currency Converter provides real-time exchange rates, helping you instantly convert prices and manage your budget effectively.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise) / Revolut (iOS/Android): Many German travelers use these services for their competitive exchange rates and multi-currency accounts. Their apps allow you to manage your funds, transfer money, and spend directly in USD with linked debit cards, often saving you money on foreign transaction fees.
- Your German Bank’s App: Don’t forget your primary bank’s app! This allows you to monitor your account activity, check balances, and potentially manage security features for your debit or credit cards while you’re abroad.
Before you fly, make sure to download these apps, set up accounts and familiarize yourself with their features. Enable international usage for your German bank cards, inform your bank of your travel plans, and consider carrying a portable power bank for your phone, as constant app usage can drain your battery. With these digital tools in your pocket, you’re well-equipped to experience the best of America!