Going abroad without the right apps on your phone is exposing yourself to unnecessary hassles. After several trips to the four corners of the world, here is the ultimate list of applications that I systematically install on my phone before closing my suitcase.

Orientation & Getting Around

• Google Maps : Essential for finding directions, schedules, and reviews.
  Tip : Always download a map of your destination area for offline use before you leave.
• Maps.me : My number 1 backup alternative when I have no network connection. The offline maps are very detailed, especially for hiking trails or small streets.
• Moovit : Ideal for local public transport (buses, trams) when Google Maps does not cover the network of the city you are in well.

Urban transport (VTC & Taxis)

• Uber / Lyft : The classics of on-demand transport. Convenient for avoiding taxi scams at airport exits and paying directly via the app.
• InDrive : An excellent and very popular alternative in several countries (especially in Latin America). The app allows you to negotiate the fare directly with the driver.

Organization and Logistics

• TripIt : My digital logbook. You forward your confirmation emails (flights, hotels, car rentals) to it and the application centralizes your entire itinerary in one place.

Finance & Payments

• Your everyday banking app : Essential for keeping an eye on your main account and authorizing secure remote transactions.
• Wealthsimple (+ Wise optional) : La combinaison parfaite pour payer sur place sans frais de conversion exagérés et bénéficier de taux de change avantageux. Wise reste mon meilleur second choix en soutien.

Connectivity & Security

• eSIM apps (Airalo, Ubigi, Saily, etc.) : No more searching for physical SIM cards at the airport. I use apps like Airalo, Ubigi, Simeo, Airhub, Kolet, Firsty, or FlexiRoam to buy and activate a local data plan in just a few clicks.
• VPN with a server in Canada : An absolute must-have. It allows me to access my banking services, streaming apps, and some Canadian websites that sometimes block foreign IP addresses.

Comfort & Translation

• MasterCard Travel Pass / Visa Airport Companion : A small but very welcome luxury for accessing airport VIP lounges during long layovers or flight delays.
• Google Translate : Essential for breaking down language barriers. Consider downloading the local language file for offline use, and use the camera option to instantly translate restaurant menus.

Communications & Messaging

• WhatsApp & Messenger (Facebook / Instagram) : Essential for staying in touch with loved ones, but also with numerous accommodations, local guides or drivers at your destination.
• A VoIP app with a Canadian number (e.g. VoIP.ms) : The principle is simple: before leaving the country, I configure all my calls from my main cell phone to be forwarded to my Canadian VoIP number.
  • How does it work when travelling? Simply disable data roaming on your Canadian SIM card, but do not put it in airplane mode.
  • The advantages:
    1. Your incoming calls are redirected to the VoIP application and ring via your local data (eSIM/Wi-Fi), saving you call roaming charges.
    2. By keeping your Canadian cellular network active (without airplane mode), you can continue to receive free SMS messages worldwide (extremely useful for two-factor authentication/MFA codes). Important: Do not reply to SMS messages, as sending them will trigger roaming charges!
    3. You can make calls to Canada for a fraction of a cent.
  • Once back? Simply disable call forwarding on your cell phone and everything will return to normal instantly.

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