Traveling with a Smartphone: Helpful Tips for Your Vacation with a Phone

Many travelers just want to unwind on vacation - even putting their smartphones away. However, modern smartphones prove to be useful helpers in many situations. For young travelers, the photo function is the most important. The high-resolution images are sent to family and friends and shared on social networks. But smartphones can also help in other ways: online bookings, GPS, and language apps have fundamentally changed our vacation experiences in recent years. We will show you which apps and phone features will truly benefit you during and before your vacation and how you can capture the most enviable vacation photos with little effort.

Apps that show the cheapest flights, search the surrounding area for suitable hotels, or suggest trendy bars make vacations easier. Of course, constant connectivity can also take away spontaneity for travelers and, in some cases, even cause more stress during relaxation time. But the good thing about digital travel companions is: if you truly want to unplug, you can do so with just the push of a button. For everyone else, traveling with a smartphone becomes an adventure trip with fewer unpleasant surprises. Even before the journey begins, the many functions and apps of smartphones prove their worth. With just a few clicks, you can find not only the cheapest flights and suitable accommodations but also book them immediately - vacation planning has never been easier. Packing lists and tips for your chosen vacation destination are also available. Local apps are particularly popular. For many, like the sought-after Spotted by Locals, locals share tips on where to find the best views of the city and which bar has the best bartender. GPS also makes navigation in unfamiliar surroundings easier. Smartphone apps have long replaced oversized fold-out road maps. Are you traveling by car on the roads of America? An app will show you the nearest gas station. Looking for a tapas bar in Barcelona? Apps will definitely help you here. Nature lovers also find these apps useful in certain situations. GPS ensures proper navigation on extensive hiking tours and keeps you on the right path despite challenging terrain. Major travel companies, from Thomas Cook to Marco Polo, have recognized the importance of digital travel assistants and now offer offline travel guides with helpful tips as well.

Additionally: phone calls and surfing the web abroad are becoming increasingly affordable. The EU Commission reached an agreement on this last year. In particular, roaming fees abroad are set to decrease. Those who have free bundles of SMS or phone minutes can use them in EU countries without incurring additional charges. Starting April 30, the limit on roaming charges will significantly decrease. More interesting for many travelers might be the introduction of the long-awaited open internet, which is expected to guarantee affordable internet surfing, regardless of which EU country you are in.

Many travelers do not just use their phones for planning and navigation. Modern phones are also replacing classic cameras. Instead of expensive photography equipment, all you need today is your smartphone to capture stunning vacation pictures. Phone cameras are getting better and more functional. There are also specific apps for post-editing. Here are 10 tips that will guarantee you impressive vacation photos:

Before you capture those unique vacation impressions, ensure that image quality and resolution are set to their best. Only then will you end up with truly impressive pictures.

The digital zoom of most smartphones significantly decreases image quality when zooming in. If possible, you should try to get closer to the subject instead of relying on your phone.

At least when it comes to smartphone photography. Instead of taking one shot, it's worth taking multiple shots. This increases the chances of finding a perfect picture in the end.

Always hold your phone horizontally. This gives you more space for your subject. Additionally, this orientation provides more stability and ultimately results in fewer blurry pictures.

At least when it comes to capturing good images. Proper lighting can save a picture. The light source should ideally be behind you. This ensures that the main subject is well-lit and grainy pictures are avoided. One of the most beautiful light sources and a popular photo subject are sunrises. Extra bonus: in the early morning hours, you can avoid tourist crowds and take even more beautiful pictures.

Even though the trend seems omnipresent, it is worth skipping the selfie stick. Mainly because the angle taken with it isn't very flattering. Moreover, they are being banned in more and more tourist spots. So better stick to classic handling! Incidentally, the most popular selfie spot is the Eiffel Tower in Paris, closely followed by Disney World in Orlando, Florida, and posing in front of the Burj Khalifa.

Exposure apps provide variety. In some cases, an over- or underexposed photo can appear quite appealing. So, it's worth experimenting with exposure and finding the best light for each subject. Depending on the camera app, the exposure level can already change when clicking on the brightest or darkest area of the image.

Often, the perspective makes a picture special. Unusual angles can turn a mediocre subject into an exciting image. Hobby photographers frequently appreciate that the small smartphone is so flexible in movement and handling. Try different perspectives and choose the perfect angle for your vacation shot.

Find the most beautiful subjects, even in the world's tourist hotspots. Always try to get in front of larger groups of visitors. This way, heads or hands won't end up in your dream shot.

Even professionals often can't do without image editing software. There are many practical apps available for smartphones that assist in post-editing vacation pictures. Right after capturing the shot, adjustments to exposure, contrast, brightness, and color saturation can be made and improved. In this way, you end up with enviably beautiful vacation photos.

These clever travel counterparts immensely ease the vacation experience. Nowadays, there are practical apps for every area, from road maps to online booking platforms and portals with useful insider tips. And if you've had enough of digital abundance: just unplug!

You can find suitable vacation destinations for your next trip here. And we will keep you informed of the latest trends in the travel industry at this point.