The 13 Best Business Travel Apps In 2024

As business owners or professionals, our jobs often require extensive travel to meet with clients, attend conferences and industry events, or visit partners and colleagues in other offices. 

While travel can be rewarding, it also poses unique challenges of staying organized, managing schedules, navigating unfamiliar places, and maintaining optimal productivity even when on the go. 

Technology has made great strides in offering solutions to smooth out the bumps of business trips. In our increasingly digital world, a suite of well-designed mobile apps has become indispensable travel allies for seasoned and occasional road warriors. 

In this article, we will explore the best business travel apps that will help streamline your itineraries, book secure transportation, translate foreign languages, access travel essentials like maps and ride-hailing services, and more.

These apps help you get things done so you can focus on closing deals and deepening relationships instead of wasting time on management or logistical issues.

Read Get Things Done by David Allen to learn more about making the most of your time.

What Are The Best Business Travel Apps?

Packing for a business trip? Take advantage of these top apps to make your travel experience smoother and more productive.

1. TripIt – Best Business Travel Management App
2. Google Maps – Best Business Travel App for Public Transit 
3. Google Translate – Best Language Translation App
4. Surfshark – Best VPN App for Secure Browsing
5. LoungeBuddy – Best Business App for Finding Airport Lounges
6. TripAdvisor – Best Travel App for Finding Reviews & Things to Do
7. Airbnb – Best Business Travel App for Finding Accommodations
8. Booking.com – Best Business Travel App to Find Hotel Bookings
9. Uber – Best Business Travel App for Ridesharing
10. Krisp – Best Business Meeting App to Cancel Noise
11. Notion – Best App for Managing Your Business
12. QuickBooks – Best App for Tracking Business Expenses
13. Airalo – Best App for Getting eSIMs for International Travel

1. TripIt – Best Business Travel Management App

Overview

TripIt takes the stress out of business travel. Forward your flight, hotel, and car rental confirmations to TripIt, and it automatically builds a master itinerary for your trip.

Get real-time flight alerts, gate reminders, and even directions to your hotel—all conveniently housed in one app.

Key Benefits

• Automatically consolidates all your travel plans into one master itinerary.
• Provides real-time alerts to stay updated with flight changes, gate updates, and more.
• House travel documents to have easy access to reservations, tickets, and rental car details.
• Effortlessly share your travel plans with colleagues or family.
• Access your itinerary without an internet connection.
• It gives interactive airport maps to help people move through the airport easily and find terminals and amenities quickly.

Pricing

Experience the enhanced features of TripIt Pro starting at $49 per year. This premium plan includes real-time flight alerts, refund notifications, and reward tracking, providing exceptional value and convenience for frequent travelers.

2. Google Maps – Best Business Travel App for Public Transit 

Overview

Overview

Google Maps is a true veteran in the world of navigation apps. It helps you get around smoothly whether traveling by car, bike, or public transportation.

Its offline maps and detailed transit information make it an absolute lifesaver for business trips, especially when hopping on buses or trains in a new city.

Key Benefits

• Ensures global coverage for reliable navigation and location tracking across cities, may it be for many European cities or Asian countries.
• Provides real-time traffic updates and public transit information to optimize travel with reliable and accurate routes and reduce delays.
• Its user-friendly interface allows users to view detailed maps, street views, and business information, enhancing travel planning and decision-making.
• Provides offline maps for navigation without an internet connection, which is critical in areas with poor connectivity.
• Integrates with other services to provide a seamless travel experience, offering restaurant bookings, hotel information, and more.
• Personalized recommendations and travel history to aid in efficient route planning and discovery of new locations.

Pricing

Google Maps has a free version that covers most needs. However, if you regularly need offline maps or more detailed navigation, premium plans start at around $2 per month, depending on the type of maps needed per 1000 requests.

3. Google Translate – Best Language Translation App

Overview

Imagine landing in a country where you don’t speak the language, and signs, menus, and conversations are indecipherable. This is where Google Translate becomes your bridge to understanding. This app breaks down language barriers, making international travel smoother and more enjoyable. 

With support for over 100 languages, text translations, and even real-time voice and image translations, Google Translate is like having a personal interpreter in your pocket. Whether for deciphering road signs or engaging in basic conversation, It is an essential tool for any business traveler.

Key Benefits

• Instant text translation in over 100 languages, enabling effective communication in diverse environments.
• The voice translation feature allows real-time conversation in multiple languages, bridging communication gaps.
• Image translation helps you understand signs, menus, and documents, ensuring you’re never lost or confused.
• Offline translation support for key languages, providing essential assistance even without internet access.
• Phrasebook to save and organize commonly used phrases, optimizing your communication during travel.
• Handwriting recognition allows you to draw characters or words on your screen, which is ideal for languages with non-Latin scripts.

Pricing

Google Translate’s core feature is that it is entirely free. Subscription plans start at around $10 per month for additional translation capacity and advanced features.

4. Surfshark – Best VPN App for Secure Browsing

Overview

Surfshark is a leading VPN app that prioritizes user security and privacy. With its advanced features and affordable pricing, it has become a top choice for many individuals and businesses looking to protect their online activity.

Surfshark offers military-grade encryption to ensure that all of your internet traffic is secure and cannot be intercepted by hackers or other malicious entities. It also has a strict no-logs policy, meaning it does not track or store any of your online activity.

Key Benefits

• Uses AES-256-GCM encryption, the same level of protection used by governments and militaries around the world.
• It does not keep any records of your online browsing or activity, ensuring complete privacy.
• Offers unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can protect all of your devices, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets, with just one account.
• Has a built-in ad blocker and malware protection to keep your devices safe while browsing the internet.

Pricing

Surfshark offers three different pricing plans: monthly, annual, and bi-annual. Further, the app has three different tiers: Starter, One, and One+. Depending on your needs and budget, you can get premium VPN protection for all of your devices without breaking the bank.

5. LoungeBuddy – Best Business App for Finding Airport Lounges

Overview

Traveling for business often means spending hours at airports, and finding a quiet, comfortable space to work or relax can transform your travel experience. Enter LoungeBuddy, the app that unlocks the door to luxury at the airport.

With LoungeBuddy, you can discover and book access to airport lounges worldwide, no matter your airline or class of service. It’s the perfect companion for those long layovers, offering tranquility and comfort amidst the hustle and bustle of airports.

Key Benefits

• Access to a vast network of airport lounges worldwide, providing peace and comfort during your travels.
• Detailed information on lounge amenities, entry requirements, and user reviews will help you make the best choice.
• No subscriptions or memberships are required to book access to lounges directly through the app.
• Tailored lounge recommendations based on your specific travel itinerary and preferences.
• Seamless booking and payment process within the app for hassle-free lounge access.
• 24/7 customer support to assist you with any inquiries or issues during your travel.

Pricing

LoungeBuddy allows you to access its vast directory and detailed lounge information for free. Lounge access starts at a specific price point; no subscription is necessary. Purchase lounge access as you go, choosing only the lounges that fit your needs and budget.

6. TripAdvisor – Best Travel App for Finding Reviews & Things to Do

Overview

TripAdvisor is like having a seasoned travel buddy at your fingertips. It helps you find the best places to eat, stay, and explore and tailor your trip to your personal preferences, making every business trip memorable.

Whether you need to find a reliable hotel, a highly rated restaurant, or some exciting activities near your business meeting, this app covers it all. Its massive database of traveler reviews helps you make informed decisions wherever you go.

Key Benefits

• Access to millions of reviews, opinions, and photos from a global community, offering diverse perspectives on accommodations, restaurants, and attractions.
• Personalized recommendations based on your preferences and past activities, ensuring relevant suggestions that enhance your travel experience.
• An easy-to-use interface that allows you to discover, compare, and book hotels, flights, and experiences all in one place.
• Interactive maps and search filters help you find exactly what you’re looking for, whether near your hotel or in a new city.
• Travel forums where you can ask questions and get advice from experienced travelers, providing you with insider tips and practical information.
• Trip planning tools that enable you to organize your travel itinerary, save favorite spots, and create custom travel guides.

Pricing

TripAdvisor offers free access to its extensive library of reviews and recommendations, ensuring you can plan your trips without any additional cost. 

7. Airbnb – Best Business Travel App for Finding Accommodations

Overview

Airbnb has shaken up the world of accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment, a spacious house, or something unique, Airbnb offers a broader range of options than most traditional hotels.

It’s a game-changer for business travelers who want a comfortable place to stay that feels more like home.

Key Benefits

• Wide selection of properties across the globe, catering to various tastes, budgets, and business travel needs.
• Detailed listings with comprehensive photos, reviews, and descriptions to help you make informed choices.
• Flexible booking options, including last-minute reservations and long-term stays, to accommodate unpredictable business schedules.
• Convenient search filters to narrow down choices by location, amenities, price, and more, ensuring you find the perfect match.
• Direct communication with hosts for any inquiries or special requests, offering a personalized travel experience.
• Airbnb Experiences provide opportunities to explore local culture or participate in team-building activities, enhancing your business trip.

Pricing

Airbnb offers a wide range of price points to fit any budget, with the cost varying wildly depending on the location, size, and accommodation type. There are no subscription fees for travelers; you only pay for the bookings you make. For hosts interested in listing their property, Airbnb charges a service fee for each booking, calculated as a percentage of the reservation subtotal.

8. Booking.com – Best Business Travel App to Find Hotel Bookings

Overview

Booking.com is a giant in the hotel booking space. Whether you need a no-frills crash pad near a conference or a luxurious suite, you’ll likely find it on this platform. 

Its vast selection, user-friendly experience, and valuable perks make it an indispensable tool for planning your next business trip.

Key Benefits

• Extensive selection of accommodations worldwide, catering to all preferences and budgets.
• User-friendly interface with detailed filters to help you find the ideal hotel based on location, price, amenities, and reviews.
• Secure and straightforward booking process with immediate confirmation, ensuring peace of mind.
• Flexible cancellation policies, allowing for adjustments in your travel plans.
• Integration with maps and location services to help you find accommodations near your business venues or points of interest.
• Access to exclusive deals and discounts, maximizing value for your business travel budget.

Pricing

Booking.com offers competitive pricing across various accommodations to suit every budget. Prices vary depending on the property, location, and time of booking. There are no upfront costs or subscription fees to use the app; you pay for your stay at the property, often with options for free cancellation.

9. Uber – Best Business Travel App for Ridesharing

Overview

Uber changed how we think about getting from point A to point B.  With just a few taps on your phone, you can have a car at your doorstep within minutes. Whether getting to an early meeting or zipping from the airport to your hotel, Uber makes ground transportation a breeze.

Key Benefits

• Wide availability across cities worldwide, offering reliable transportation wherever your business is.
• User-friendly app interface, allowing quick and easy booking of rides within minutes.
• There is a variety of vehicle options to choose from, catering to different preferences and group sizes.
• Transparent pricing with fare estimates provided upfront helps you manage your travel expenses better.
• Ride tracking for safety and coordination, giving you peace of mind during your travels.
• Business profile option, enabling you to separate business and personal rides for easier expense tracking.

Pricing

Uber’s pricing is dynamic, adjusting based on demand, traffic, and other factors. There are no subscription fees; you pay per ride. The app provides an estimate before you confirm your booking, giving you control over your travel expenses.

10. Krisp – Best Business Meeting App to Cancel Noise

Overview

Finding a quiet space for calls and meetings can be challenging in the bustling business travel world. Enter Krisp, your noise-canceling app that ensures your communications are crystal clear, no matter where you are.

Using AI to filter out background noise from both ends of a call, Krisp lets you focus on the conversation without distractions. It integrates seamlessly with any conferencing app, making it a must-have tool for professionals who demand quality and clarity in their communications.

Key Benefits

• AI-powered noise cancellation technology that works in real-time to eliminate unwanted background noise.
• Compatibility with a wide range of conferencing apps, ensuring clear communication on any platform.
• Easy-to-use interface, allowing you to activate noise cancellation with just a click.
• Personal and room echo removal, enhancing the clarity of your voice.
• Voice leveling feature that balances the sound volume, making every participant audible.
• Option to record meetings with clean audio, ideal for review or documentation.

Pricing

Krisp offers a free version with basic features. The first paid plan starts at $12 monthly and offers additional features like AI unlimited noise cancellation time and meeting transcriptions.

11. Notion – Best App for Managing Your Business

Overview

Imagine having an all-in-one digital software workspace that seamlessly blends your notes, tasks, databases, and project management tools all in one place. That’s Notion for you—a versatile app designed to keep you organized and boost productivity, especially when moving. 

With its customizable templates and intuitive interface, you can tailor Notion to fit your work style. This makes it easier to stay on top of your business needs, collaborate with your team, and manage projects from anywhere worldwide.

Key Benefits

• A comprehensive workspace that integrates AI note-taking, task creation, database maintenance, and project management tools in one place.
• Customizable templates that cater to various business needs, allowing you to streamline your workflow.
• Collaborative features that enable real-time teamwork and sharing, keeping everyone on the same page.
• Cross-platform compatibility ensures you can access your workspace from any device anywhere.
• Powerful organizational tools, including tagging and sorting, make managing large amounts of information easy.
• Seamless integration with other tools and services enhances functionality and connectivity.

Pricing

Notion provides a free version with basic features for personal use. The first paid plan starts at $10 per month per member, which unlocks advanced features like unlimited file uploads and access to version history.

12. QuickBooks – Best App for Tracking Business Expenses

Overview

Keeping track of receipts, invoices, and expenses on the road can be a significant headache. QuickBooks gives you a comprehensive set of features to ensure that managing business finances, no matter where you are, is both efficient and simple.

Quickbooks allows you to easily snap photos of receipts, track mileage, and categorize everything, ensuring you’re ready to file taxes without breaking a sweat.

Key Benefits

• Streamlined expense tracking: Allows you to record expenditures on the go, ensuring no transaction is missed, especially for tax purposes.
• Easy invoice creation and management help you bill clients promptly and professionally, even while traveling.
• Comprehensive financial reports give you insights into your accounts payable and receivable at any time.
• Integration with bank accounts and credit cards automates expense categorization and reconciliation.
• Mobile accessibility ensures you can manage your finances anytime, anywhere, keeping you informed and in control.
• Robust security measures protect your financial data, giving you peace of mind.

Pricing

QuickBooks offers a range of plans, with the first paid plan starting at $15 per month. This plan includes basic features suitable for small businesses looking to manage their finances efficiently.

13. Airalo – Best App for Getting eSIMs for International Travel

Overview

Airalo is a revolutionary app that offers eSIMs for international travel. Instead of having to purchase a physical SIM card or switch out your current one, eSIMs allow you to download a digital SIM directly onto your phone.

This means no more dealing with expensive roaming charges or the hassle of switching out SIM cards when traveling abroad.

Key Benefits

• Offers eSIMs from over 100 countries, making it easy to stay connected while traveling internationally
• Easy activation and management through the Airalo app
• No need to wait in line at a store or deal with physical SIM cards

Pricing

Airalo offers affordable pricing for their eSIM plans, starting at just $3 per GB for local plans. They also offer regional and global plans for those traveling to multiple countries.

What Are Business Travel Apps?

Apps for business travelers are like your digital travel assistants. They help you tackle every step of planning and managing your work trips – from booking flights and hotels to tracking expenses and even translating languages. 

These apps aim to smooth out the wrinkles of business travel so you can focus on the actual work, not the logistics of getting there. Think of them as tools designed to make those out-of-office experiences less stressful and more productive!

How Can Business Travel Apps Benefit You?

Business travel apps can be a lifesaver!  They streamline the entire travel process, saving you time and energy. Instead of juggling multiple websites and apps, you’ll find flight options, compare hotels, and even grab a ride from the airport all in one place.

Many apps also help you navigate new places confidently.  They can provide directions, help you communicate if you don’t speak the local language, and even point out the best restaurants and things to do during your downtime.

Ultimately, business travel apps give you back precious time and reduce the stress of being away from the office.  They let you focus on what matters most – making your business trip successful!

What Features Should You Look For In Business Travel Apps?

When you’re on the move for business, having the right travel apps at your disposal can transform your experience, making it more productive and less stressful. The best business travel apps offer features that streamline your travel processes, from planning to expense tracking, ensuring you stay organized and focused on your business goals.

Here are some of the features you should look for in business travel apps:

1. All-in-one solutions: The best apps consolidate tasks like booking trips, tracking itineraries, and managing expenses – saving you from switching between different tools.
2. Offline access: Spotty Wi-Fi on planes or in unfamiliar cities can be a nightmare. Look for apps that offer offline maps, travel information, and the ability to view essential documents without an internet connection.
3. Integration: If you already use tools for accounting, calendar apps syncing, or customer management (CRM), look for travel apps that integrate seamlessly with your existing business processes.
4. Ease of use:  The app should be intuitive and easy to figure out, even when you’re tired and jet-lagged.  A cluttered interface will only add to your travel stress.
5. Customization: Some apps allow you to personalize your experience to match your travel preferences or align with your company’s policies. This helps you find exactly what you need quickly.

Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research

Finding the right business travel apps can save you much time and hassle. Here’s how we dug in to find the best ones:

1. Understanding your needs: First, we considered business travelers’ biggest pain points. These include finding affordable flights and hotels, staying organized, and overcoming language barriers.
2. Hands-on testing: We downloaded and tried out a bunch of popular apps. This gave us first-hand experience to see which ones are genuinely helpful and easy to use on the go.
3. Real-world reviews: We combed through reviews and feedback from other business travelers. This helped identify apps that consistently deliver great experiences (and ones to avoid!)
4. Features vs. cost: We looked for a balance between valuable features and pricing.  After all, the fanciest app isn’t helpful if it blows your travel budget.
5. Reliability and support: Business travel can throw curveballs your way. We prioritized apps from companies with solid reputations and good customer support in case you need help while on the road.

Final Thoughts on Business Travel Apps

Choosing the right business travel apps can transform your work trips from chaotic to streamlined. Whether you need help snagging the best flight deals, conquering language barriers, or simply keeping your receipts organized, there’s an app to make your life easier.

Remember, the best apps save you time, reduce stress, and help you stay focused on what truly matters – a successful business trip! If you’ve followed the tips in this guide, you’re well on your way to becoming a travel tech pro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How secure are business travel apps?

Understand the security measures these apps have in place to protect your personal and business information. This is crucial given the sensitive nature of the data you might enter.

Can business travel apps help with expense reporting?

Yes, many business travel apps include features specifically designed to simplify expense reporting. They allow you to track spending in real-time, categorize expenses, and even scan receipts, making it easier to stay on top of your finances and ensure accurate reporting.

Can I use business travel apps offline?

Some of the best apps do indeed offer offline functionality. This is crucial for accessing travel itineraries, maps, or translation tools when you don’t have internet access.

Can business travel apps handle last-minute changes?

Yes, one of the major advantages of using business travel apps is their flexibility in managing last-minute changes. Many apps offer the ability to quickly modify or cancel bookings, adjust itineraries, and even find alternative accommodations or flights in real time, helping you adapt on the fly without missing a beat.

Do business travel apps offer loyalty rewards?

Indeed, some business travel apps integrate with various loyalty programs or have their own rewards system. By booking through these apps, you can accumulate points or miles for flights, hotels, and other travel services, which can be redeemed for discounts, upgrades, or freebies, maximizing the value of your business trips.

Are there business travel apps that cater to group travel?

Indeed, there are apps specifically designed to streamline the planning and coordination of group travel. These apps allow you to manage multiple bookings in one place, share itineraries among team members, and even track expenses collectively, making group business trips more organized and less stressful.