Travel apps to get you there with ease

Written by Sonya Davidson 

I know, the winter has been brutal and it’s only January. Luckily I’ve got a few dangling carrots to keep me from spiraling into the deep bowels of back-to-back episodes of Modern Family. I think I’ve seen every episode …four times.

If you're like me and in travel planning mode, it's a good time to download some useful apps that may make your journey a little more efficient and pleasant!

FLIGHT TRACK 5 – Before you leave for the airport, find out if your flight is on time and what gate it will be arriving at. Great for those times when you need to play driver to pick up someone as well or share the information with other travelers in your group. The app is straightforward and reliable. By default the app refreshes information every 5 minutes when you’ve got wi-fi. ($4.99) at iTunes and Google Play.

GATE GURU –  This app give you estimated time to you’ll have to wait in the airport security line up, what time your flight is departing, and where you can grab a bite to eat before boarding your flight. It also offers handy tips by other app users and an airport map so you can make your mad dash to the washrooms. (FREE) at iTunes, Google Play, and Windows.

SEAT GURU – Ever wonder how to score a better seat on the plane? Do you want to find out just how big (or small) that jet is? On SeatGuru you can check out your flight based on model and airline. See how your seat on the plane rates is it good or bad? There’s even a “be aware” advisory on some seats. Find out what in-flight amenities are there as well as what extra charges you’ll be facing should you forget to bring your own headset. You can get right down to the specifics about the pitch and width of your seat as well. Travelling with a baby and you’ll want to know if there’s a baby bassinet available. If you want to help future passengers out you can input your tips including seat photos with your recommendations…or not. (FREE) iTunes and Google Play.

LOUNGE BUDDY – If you’d rather spend time in a lounge this app is for you even if you’re not one of those lucky elite, super elite, golden ticket types. With this app you select the airport and it will tell you what lounges are accessible to you with, or without, status or fancy credit cards. The app tells you if there’s a fee, what amenities are available, and where the lounge is located. Lounge users also have the opportunity to post up photos, offer tips and let you know if the hummus is worth eating or if you have a place to shower. (FREE) iTunes and Android to come.

AROUND ME -  How many times do you find yourself wondering where the nearest bank or gas station is? Or where the best coffee hotspot is located if you’re in desperate need of a caffeine fix? What if you need to get to the nearest hospital? Hopefully never! But just in case, this app is great at home or away and is simple to use. The latest app redesigned for iOS 7 also offers enhanced visuals and GPS driven directions to your desired destinations. Sharing information with friends and family are now easier with the new AirDrop feature. (FREE) iTunes.