TRAVEL APPS

Tips for some popular travel apps for when you’re next on the road

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDA BLOFFWITCH

As RVers, most of us treat space in our RVs as though it is prime real estate. So by the time you pack a few good books to read, the weight quickly adds up. In today’s world of technology, there is an app for almost everything! Whether you’re tech savvy or relatively new to the world of “apps”, let’s look at some popular travel apps that may help lighten your load.

WIKICAMPS AUSTRALIA

This widely used app amongst RVers is very comprehensive and includes campsites, caravan parks, points of interest, and dump points. Information is recent as it is user generated. The app is available for download to IOS, tablets and Windows 8.1 devices. Cost –  less than $10.

THE MICHAEL MORCOMBE AND DAVID STEWART EGUIDE TO AUSTRALIAN BIRDS

An excellent app for bird enthusiasts with detailed descriptions, photos and sounds covering 750+ species. Good search and filtering options are available when you want to narrow down on a specific location. Available for both IOS and Android. Cost – $30 approx.

PHOTO ACADEMY

If you are new to photography or looking to increase your knowledge, this app will help you take better images in no time. It’s full of tips covering everything from the basics through to camera setting recommendations. Available for both IOS and Android. Cost – less than $5.

HEMA EXPLORER

Hema produces a couple of apps – this one is useful for both navigation and points of interest. Additional functionality includes online weather forecasts and rain radar. You can even share your trip information with your Facebook and Twitter accounts. Available for both IOS and Android. Cost – less than $30.

WILLY WEATHER

Would you like a simple app to know what the weather forecast is going to be where you are? This popular app provides a seven day forecast with detailed information including wind, rain, tides, warnings, sunrise and sunset times. Available for both IOS and Android. Cost –  Free.

FIRST AID

This easy-to-navigate app by St John Ambulance provides step-by-step information with accompanying images for a wide range of first aid topics. The app is available for both IOS and Android platforms. Cost –  Free.

There is no doubt travelling has been made easier with app technology available at our fingertips – but I still like to pick up a paperback novel every now and then! Apps may not replace all the books you carry, but if they help you to reduce even a small amount of RV weight, then that’s a good thing. “Appy” travelling!