Driving is one of the most popular ways to travel. It provides a unique experience for millions of people all across the world. Whether it involves journeying across the country, traveling around a city, or driving to work, there are many apps to help you get to where you’re going efficiently. From gas to parking, check out the following apps for your drive:
1. GasBuddy
Depending on where you’re traveling, gas prices can be expensive. For instance, California has seen gas prices over $4 per gallon — and other states are catching up. However, GasBuddy helps you save on those pesky prices.
You can check the prices of each gas station in your area with its interactive map. You can also use its insights to see how cost trends have changed recently. Other features include a log for gas miles and a cost calculator to stay on top of your trip spending.
You can download GasBuddy for iOS or Android. You can also opt to use the desktop website.
2. Waze
Navigation has evolved past the standard directions-based interface. You’ll find that modern apps have much more to offer. Waze, especially, goes above and beyond.
With traffic updates and route suggestions, you can plan your trip from start to finish. The app’s real-time updates keep you in the loop the entire time. Plus, it warns you about dangers ahead like potholes or broken-down vehicles to help you stay safe. It can even notify you when there is a hidden police car ahead.
You can download Waze for iOS and Android. You can also download Waze Carpool — the platform’s new ridesharing app — for iOS and Android as well.
3. Wavyn
Safety on the road is everything, and driving comes with many dangers. Accidents, aggressive drivers, and car troubles are common troubles you may face when driving. Wavyn, however, helps you to stay safe while on the road. With your Android’s cameras and sensors, the app detects traffic, speed, and phone usage.
With warnings and alerts about collisions, speed limit notifications, and traffic scanning, you’ll fully prepare yourself for any dangers or emergencies on the road. Plus, you earn safe driving points as an incentive to keep up the good work. Wavyn is currently available for Android.
4. AAA Mobile
AAA is a popular resource for all things car-related. The service is there for you when you get a flat tire, need a tow, or have any questions regarding your car’s performance. Roadside help is just the beginning, though, of what this app can do.
If you have a membership or are thinking about getting one, it comes with many benefits. The roadside assistance is fast and efficient — it gets you the help you need quickly. As a member, you can also get discounts on rental cars or hotels that offer deals. Membership fees start at $59 per year.
5. HONK
One of the worst-case scenarios on your journey is when your vehicle breaks down. You can get a flat tire, an engine failure, or a battery dying out. These instances are a pain and can seriously ruin your ride. Luckily, HONK helps you get through it efficiently and quickly.
For whatever car trouble you’re having, you can use HONK. No matter the time of day, you can get assistance with this app. You simply request the service, describe the issue, and wait for help. Paying is also easy since you can complete it all through the app.
HONK is available to download for iOS and Android.
6. MileIQ
Have you ever needed to account for your miles while on a work trip so your employer could reimburse you? Sometimes, it can be a convoluted process to figure out exactly how many miles you traveled on work time. Coming to your phone from Microsoft, MileIQ is an innovative app that simplifies that tedious process.
MileIQ optimizes the setup. All you have to do is start the trip and sit back as the app automatically logs your miles. Additionally, you can categorize your trips into different groups. In the end, you’ll have the exact amount of mileage you need to present your employer with. Download MileIQ now for iOS or Android.
7. Roadtrippers
Do you love adventure? Do you yearn to get in your car and see where the road takes you? There’s an app for this desire. Roadtrippers is the all-inclusive destination app that helps you find the best sightseeing and scenic locations on the way to your endpoint.
First, you plan your trip with the app — find out where you want to go and how you’re going to get there. Then, you use the navigation to get going. Last, you find all the cool spots that the app recommends. These memorable moments are the ones worth stopping for. Download Roadtrippers now for iOS and Android.
8. ParkMobile
The last part of your driving journey — regardless of where you’re going — is to put the car in park. Sometimes, this task is easier in theory. Parking can be difficult, especially in crowded cities or near stadiums and airports. Luckily, ParkMobile covers every parking need you can think of.
Use this app to find a street, garage, or lot parking in over 250 cities in the United States. Search for parking near you, enter the location, and pay from your device. It’s that easy. You can extend the time you need from your phone, too — no going back to put money in the meter. You can also use the “Find My Car” feature just in case you forget where you parked your car. ParkMobile is available for download on the Apple and Google Play app stores.
Stay safe
When you’re the driver, make sure you take care of your own wellbeing. Eat well, drink enough and certainly don’t drink alcohol or use any drugs that would have an effect on how you drive. Give your vehicle a thorough check before going on a longer ride. To avoid getting into an unpleasant situation with a flat tire, take care of purchasing a portable tire inflator such as these ones on TheDrive.com that enables you to do the job quickly and efficiently.
Enjoy the ride
These apps are the gateway to a smoother, safer journey. No matter if you’re going to work or trekking across the country, these apps make the ride more enjoyable while you focus on the road ahead.
Photo credit: The feature image has been taken by Fernanda Caroline Souza Silva.
Sources: Nathan Bomey (USA Today) / Andrea Clariss Hernandez (PolicyAdvice)
