TripIt Review 2024: Best Business Travel App & Trip Planning Tool?

Have you ever shown up for a business trip, ready to conquer the world?

But, only to scramble around at the last minute trying to remember where you were supposed to stay and what time you needed to leave for the arrival airport?

Or you’ve planned a meticulously scheduled multi-city itinerary only to have your flights canceled at the last second due to weather, throwing all your plans into disarray.

If any of that sounds familiar, then you’ll definitely want to read this TripIt review.

As a road warrior entrepreneur who’s spent more time airborne than most birds, I can confidently say that TripIt Pro is the Swiss Army knife for frequent travelers! It will save you countless headaches and make you look like a travel pro, no matter how complex your travel itinerary is. 

Keep reading to discover how this little app became my secret weapon for seamless business travel!

TripIt Pros & Cons

When considering the best travel and trip planning app, it’s essential to weigh TripIt’s pros and cons against your specific needs and preferences to make the right decision.

TripIt Pros

• Unmatched Itinerary Organization: TripIt shines when it comes to organizing your travel plans. With this app, you can consolidate all your bookings into one easy-to-follow itinerary, making your travel experience smoother and less stressful.
• Real-Time Travel Updates: Stay informed with real-time updates on flight delays, gate changes, and other crucial travel-related information. This feature allows you to adapt quickly to changes and avoid unnecessary hiccups during your journey.
• Seamless Integration with Travel Services: TripIt works harmoniously with various travel services, allowing you to manage all aspects of your trip in one place. This feature saves time and reduces the hassle of switching between multiple apps or websites.

TripIt Cons

• Potential Miscommunication: While TripIt Pro aims to provide accurate and timely travel updates, there might be instances where information may not be fully up-to-date or accurate. However, these instances are rare and generally quickly resolved.
• Premium Features at a Cost: The basic version of the TripIt account is free, but some of its most compelling features, like real-time flight alerts and seat tracking, are reserved for the Pro version, which requires a subscription fee. Nonetheless, the investment can be worthwhile for frequent travelers who value these advanced functionalities.

Quick Verdict – Is TripIt Worth the Money?

After spending countless hours organizing trips and experiencing the convenience of the TripIt app, I can confidently say that, yes, it is worth the investment.

TripIt Pro stands out for its ability to simplify and streamline your travel planning. It brilliantly consolidates all your travel details, from flights to hotel bookings, into one cohesive itinerary. Its real-time alerts ensure you’re always up-to-date with flight changes or delays, a feature that has personally saved me from missing important meetings more than once.

You may think paying for a travel app isn’t necessary when free alternatives are available. However, consider the amount of time and stress you’ll save with TripIt. The peace of mind knowing that all your travel details are in one place and up-to-date is well worth the small investment.

One minor critique of TripIt Pro is that getting used to the app’s layout and features takes some time. But don’t let this deter you. Once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll find it intuitive and user-friendly.

If you’re ready to simplify your travel planning and stay informed every step of your journey, try TripIt Pro. You’ll be glad you did!

Who is TripIt for?

You’ll love TripIt if:

• You’re a frequent business traveler: If you find yourself constantly moving for work, TripIt will be your ally. It keeps all your travel plans neatly organized and accessible, making it easier to juggle multiple trips.
• You value timeliness and efficiency: If punctuality and well-coordinated plans are paramount for you, the real-time updates and alerts from TripIt ensure you’re always in the loop about your travel schedules.
• You enjoy hassle-free planning: If you prefer having all your travel details in one place without the hassle of sifting through emails and papers, TripIt’s automatic itinerary generation from your booking emails is a game-changer.

You won’t love TripIt if:

• Flexibility is your travel philosophy: TripIt excels at streamlining pre-planned trips, but it’s not a genie for spontaneous adventures. Consider more adaptable solutions if unplanned detours and a free-spirited approach are your travel style.
• Technological fluency is a challenge: While user-friendly, TripIt thrives in the digital realm. If technology gives you pause, consider alternative methods that align with your comfort level.

What is TripIt?

TripIt is a comprehensive travel organizing app that simplifies travel planning and management. It’s particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently, whether for business or leisure.

What is the key benefit of having TripIt?

The unique selling point of TripIt Pro is its exceptional itinerary management feature. It collates all your travel details into one streamlined, easy-to-access itinerary that’s available even when you’re offline. This means no more frantic searching through emails for flight details or hotel bookings.

How does TripIt work?

Once you’ve booked your travel – flights, hotels, car rentals, and more – you simply forward your confirmation emails to TripIt Pro. The app then automatically creates a master itinerary for each trip, which you can access anytime, anywhere, on any device. It also provides real-time alerts for flight delays, gate changes, and other critical travel information.

How is it different from competitors?

While there are many travel apps out there, TripIt stands out with its automated itinerary creation and real-time updates. Unlike other apps that require manual input, TripIt Pro simplifies the process by doing the work for you. 

Plus, with its Pro version, you get additional features like VIP travel benefits, alternate flight suggestions during delays, seat tracking, and a point tracker for various loyalty programs. It’s a comprehensive tool that caters to the needs of both casual vacationers and frequent business travelers.

Reasons I Recommend TripIt to Everyone

#1) Manage Your Travel Itineraries With Ease

Remember the days of juggling paper confirmations, frantically searching for boarding passes, and sweating through flight delays? 

TripIt Pro throws those worries out the window. It’s like having a personal assistant who magically transforms your travel emails into a real-time, dynamic itinerary. 

No more sifting through endless inboxes – everything is beautifully organized, with flight updates, gate changes, and essential details readily available at a glance.

Just forward your travel confirmations (flights, hotels, car rentals, you name it!), and TripIt Pro does the rest. I recently had a trip with four flights, two hotels, and a rental car, and TripIt seamlessly integrated everything into a single, easily accessible itinerary. It was a game-changer!

Speaking of game-changers, remember when I was stuck in a massive airport delay, stressed out, and lost? TripIt to the rescue!

It instantly notified me about the delay, offered alternative flights, and even provided a map of the airport with nearby restaurants to chill in. It was like having a calm, collected friend guide me through the travel turbulence.

#2) Your TripIt Account Can Be Accessed Offline

Let’s face it: Airport Wi-Fi is not so reliable. But with TripIt, you’re never left stranded. Your entire itinerary, including boarding passes, directions, and even maps, is stored offline, accessible anytime, anywhere. No more panicking about losing internet access or watching your phone battery die just as you need to board.

I once transferred through a busy airport with notoriously spotty internet. TripIt was a lifesaver! I had everything I needed downloaded beforehand, from my boarding passes to the directions to my hotel. It was like having a travel guide in my pocket, guiding me through every step of the way, even without a signal.

No more printing out those bulky boarding passes that always seem to get lost in the abyss of my carry-on. With TripIt, it’s a simple tap on the screen, and voilà!

Your boarding pass is displayed and ready to be scanned. The little things make a big difference, and TripIt is full of them.

#3) TripIt Pro Unlocks the Ultimate Travel Experience

While the free version of TripIt is fantastic, the Pro version takes things to the next level. Real-time airport alerts, seat tracker upgrades, lounge access information, and even fare refunds – it’s like having a travel fairy godmother at your fingertips.

As a frequent flyer, the real-time airport alerts have been a game-changer. No more nervously checking the departure board every five minutes. TripIt lets me know if my flight is delayed and which gate to head to, and it even suggests alternative options if needed. It’s like having a personal airport concierge looking out for me.

And let’s talk about those lounge passes! I recently used my TripIt Pro credit to access an airport lounge during a long layover. Comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and delicious snacks – it was a travel oasis in the midst of the airport chaos.

TripIt Pro has definitely made my travel experiences more enjoyable and relaxing.

What You Might Not Like About TripIt

#1) Boring User Interface Compared To Other Apps

One of the less impressive features of TripIt is its user interface, which can feel outdated and plain, especially compared to some of the more visually appealing travel apps out there. 

The functionality is top-notch, but if you appreciate a more modern and vibrant travel planning app aesthetic, TripIt’s interface may be lacking. 

During my use, I sometimes wished for a more engaging and visually stimulating experience, especially since many apps today emphasize design as much as functionality.

#2) Requires Confirmation Emails & Manual Inputs

Another aspect that might be a downside for some is TripIt’s reliance on confirmation emails and occasional manual inputs. 

To get the most out of the travel organizer app, you must ensure that your booking confirmations are sent to the email account linked with TripIt. Sometimes, the app doesn’t automatically capture every detail, requiring manual input.

This wasn’t a significant issue for me, as the overall time saved by the app outweighed these moments of manual updating. However, this might be inconvenient for you, especially if you prefer a completely hands-off approach to itinerary management.

TripIt Pricing

TripIt Free Version

TripIt operates on a freemium model, which means you can use the basic version of the app at no cost. The free version offers features such as creating itineraries by forwarding confirmation emails and accessing these itineraries offline.

TripIt Pro Subscription

If you’re looking for more advanced features, consider TripIt Pro, which costs $49 per year. With TripIt Pro, you get real-time flight alerts, reward program tracking, VIP travel benefits, and more. This is a great value, especially if you travel frequently.

TripIt App: Key Features Breakdown

Let’s break down the key features of TripIt and delve into the details of each feature:

Trip Itinerary & Information

TripIt’s core feature is its itinerary-organizing capability. Simply forwarding your confirmation emails to the app creates a detailed, easy-to-follow itinerary for your trip. This includes flights, accommodations, car rentals, and even restaurant reservations. It’s like having a personal travel assistant in your pocket.

What makes this feature special is its simplicity and efficiency. There’s no need to switch between multiple apps or search through dozens of emails to find your booking details. Everything is consolidated into one streamlined itinerary.

As for my own experience, this feature has been a game-changer. It’s saved me so much time and stress, especially when I’m juggling multiple bookings. Plus, having all my information in one place has helped me stay organized and focus more on enjoying my travels rather than worrying about logistics.

Travel Details & Reservation Details

One of the standout features of TripIt is its ability to consolidate all your travel details and reservation information. This includes everything from flights, hotels, car rentals to restaurant bookings. It organizes all your booking confirmations into a single, easy-to-access itinerary.

The special aspect of this feature lies in its integration capabilities. It smoothly pulls together information from various sources, eliminating the need to manually organize all your travel details. This seamless organization is something that sets TripIt apart in the crowded travel app market.

Speaking from personal experience, this feature has made a significant difference to my travel experiences. It has relieved the stress and confusion of managing multiple bookings.

By having all my details in one place, I’ve been able to focus on the joy of travel rather than getting bogged down by logistics. It’s like having a personal travel assistant that ensures I never miss a beat during my trips.

Flight Status Alerts & Information

Flight Status Alerts and Information is a real-time feature that updates you about your flight details. It sends you alerts regarding any changes in the flight schedule, gate changes, or delays. This ensures you’re always up-to-date with your travel plans and can adjust accordingly.

What sets this feature apart is its proactive nature. Unlike other apps where you might need to check for updates constantly, TripIt sends alerts to keep you informed. This means less time spent worrying about changes and more time enjoying your trip.

In terms of personal experiences, this feature has made travel much smoother. I remember a time when there was a sudden gate change, which I was unaware of.

Thanks to TripIt’s alert, I could reach the correct gate on time. It saved me from the stress and potential missed flights – making my travel experience seamless and hassle-free.

E-mail Address Forwarding

E-mail Address Forwarding is a unique feature of TripIt that allows you to forward your travel confirmation emails directly to the app. This includes flight bookings, hotel reservations, car rentals, and more. Once you forward the email, TripIt automatically organizes the information into a comprehensive and easy-to-navigate itinerary.

This feature is special because of its ease of use and convenience. Simply forward an email, and all your travel plans will be sorted and presented in order. You don’t have to manually input any details, saving you precious time and effort.

From my own experience, E-mail Address Forwarding has been nothing short of a lifesaver. I’ve found myself in situations where I had multiple bookings and confirmations to manage.

Being able to forward these emails to TripIt and have them organized instantly relieved me of great stress. It’s like having a personal assistant handle the tedious parts of my travel planning.

FAQs about TripIt

Does TripIt integrate with other apps?

Yes, TripIt seamlessly integrates with other apps like Google Maps, Airbnb, and more. This makes it easier to access all your travel information from one place.

Can I share my TripIt itinerary with others?

Absolutely. You can share your itinerary with others directly from the app. This feature is handy if you’re traveling in a group or want to keep family and friends updated about your travel plans.

How safe is TripIt?

TripIt employs several security measures to keep information safe, including storing data in highly secured data centers, data encryption, and passcodes.​

Can TripIt handle complex itineraries with layovers and multiple destinations?

Absolutely! TripIt thrives on complexity. It seamlessly weaves multi-city journeys into a cohesive itinerary with layover details, onward flight information, and even transportation options. No more juggling multiple apps or deciphering cryptic airport maps.

Where can you use TripIt?

TripIt is designed for global use. You can access all your travel details and receive updates anywhere worldwide. It’s also available offline through Android, iOS, and Mac apps, although internet access is needed to update the app information.

Also, TripIt supports various languages, including U.S. English, British English, French, German, Japanese, and Spanish, with language preferences easily adjustable on their website.​

Final Verdict – to Buy TripIt or Not to Buy TripIt?

After thoroughly experiencing and reviewing TripIt, I wholeheartedly recommend this app to any frequent, especially business travelers. The convenience of having all your travel plans in one place cannot be overstated.

TripIt excels in organizing and managing travel itineraries, a feature that I personally found invaluable during my numerous business trips. The ease of having all travel details in one place, combined with real-time updates and alerts, significantly enhances travel efficiency. While the user interface might not be the most visually appealing and depends on confirmation emails, these are minor issues compared to the overall benefits.

However, the cost of upgrading to TripIt Pro for additional features like real-time flight alerts and reward program tracking might not be worth it. But considering the peace of mind and convenience it offers, especially for frequent travelers, it’s an investment worth considering.

If you’re still hesitant, considering the subscription cost or the occasional need for manual input, remember that the time and stress saved by this app can be invaluable, especially when juggling multiple travel plans.

Stay tuned for our next section to explore alternatives to TripIt if you want to weigh your options further.

TripIt Alternatives

If $49 is too much for you to stomach right now or you need a different solution, you might like one of these alternatives.

#1) Wanderlog

Wanderlog positions itself as a comprehensive travel planner that’s free to use. While TripIt shines in itinerary organization and real-time updates, Wanderlog takes it a step further by incorporating a feature that allows you to plan and visualize your trip on a map. This can be a game-changer for you if you’re a visual person who likes to see your entire trip at a glance.

However, Wanderlog falls short compared to TripIt in its automatic organization features. With TripIt, you simply forward confirmation emails, and the app does the rest. Wanderlog requires a bit more manual input, which might be better if you’re after efficiency.

Wanderlog may be more suitable for those who enjoy detailed planning and are okay with spending a bit more time inputting information. If you’re a casual traveler who values cost over convenience, Wanderlog could be an excellent pick for you.

#2) TripCase

TripCase is another robust travel app that offers itinerary organization similar to TripIt. One key difference is that TripCase provides a feature called “Alternate Flights,” which shows other flight options when your current flight is delayed or canceled. This could be a lifesaver in stressful situations and is a feature that a trip TripIt lacks.

On the other hand, TripCase doesn’t offer the same level of integration with other travel services as TripIt. For instance, you won’t be able to sync your Airbnb bookings or Google Maps with TripCase, which could be a deal-breaker if seamless integration is important to you.

TripCase is best suited for frequent flyers and would benefit from the “Alternate Flights” feature. It’s also a good choice if you are okay with manually adding other travel details outside of flight information.