Apps for smartphones and tablets have reshaped the travelscape. Michael Gebicki selects 10 no savvy traveller should leave home without, all available for iOS and Android platforms.
SKYPE Make free calls to another Skype user, send messages and make calls to landlines and mobile phones for just a few cents per minute. Download Skype, hook into a Wi-Fi connection and say "Sayonara" to expensive call charges.
XE CURRENCY EXCHANGE Simple and intuitive, this free app converts prices in local currency into any other currency in offline mode.
KINDLE All the travel guides, maps, novels and magazines you could possibly wish for.
WEATHERBUG This is the pick of the weather-watch apps with an easy-to-read interface plus seven-day forecasts.
URBANSPOON Urbanspoon puts the bite on the food choices in your neck of the woods.
Search by cuisine or price with selections pinpointed on a map.
GOOGLE TRANSLATE Just key in the word or phrase in English and back comes the text in any one of more than 60 languages, many with voice.
DROPBOX This free, Cloud-based storage app lets you store your scanned passport, insurance policy, itinerary and any other vital documents for instant access. Mark essential files as "Favourite" to view offline.
CITYMAPS2GO Thousands of city and regional maps you can download with no data roaming charges, all for a low one-off fee. In offline mode, the app will find your current location, search for streets and pinpoint restaurants, cafes, attractions and hotels.
SYGIC Transform your smartphone or tablet into a GPS navigator, with turn-by-turn voice commands and super graphics, at a decent price. Once downloaded, Sygic operates from satellite signals rather than expensive data connections.
FLASHLIGHT Whether it's the keyhole to your hotel room or menus by candlelight, these free smartphone apps shed light on your subject matter.
Flashlight by Rik for iPhone, Brightest Flashlight Free for Android.
