Hello, my lovely readers! If you’re planning to visit India, keep reading this blog post, as I’ll share SIX essential apps to help you travel better while still being easier on your pockets. India is infamous for charging extra money to tourists, especially if you’re traveling from abroad.
Thanks to the blooming Tech scene in India, traveling has become better than ever. You’ll find an app for everything. Plus, they are reliable, come with no additional charges, and provide faster access to information. These apps have not only made our lives easier but efficient for travelers. You can also check out my article, where I share 6 tips to plan your first solo trip.
Hence, I highly recommend downloading these apps before traveling to India. To use these apps, you would require an Indian phone number. I recommend buying a SIM card from the airport instead of using your number with a roaming plan. It will be cheaper and more efficient. Here is a list of apps you should download once you land in India.
1. OLA/ UBER
Finding a ride is a hassle in foreign lands, especially when there’s a language problem. Not everyone understands English. Plus, there are safety concerns that we can’t ignore. Therefore, I recommend downloading both OLA and UBER when traveling in India. You can book cabs to autorickshaws. Plus, these apps do regular background checks of their drivers, which is good from a security point of view.
OLA also offers interstate cabs and day rentals. These are reliable and cheaper, I have used these services several times in different cities, and I’m super satisfied with the service.
2. Your network provider’s App
Every mobile company in India has a dedicated app that will help you keep track of your data and balance. So that you never run out of internet. Being online and keeping in touch with your loved ones is very important, especially when traveling abroad.
3. Paytm
Paytm is a digital payment app used across the country. Even the tiniest vendors accept digital payments making it easy to pay and roam freely without the fear of theft. You can add money to the wallet using your credit card and pay using QR codes available in the shops. Plus, it will help you keep track of your payments and allow you to limit the use of your physical wallet. Particularly in a place like Chandni Chowk, that’s infamous for theft.
4. Zomato/ Swiggy
Food ordering apps are another essential application that will make your life easier. You can check restaurant reviews, order food, book a table, and whatnot. Plus, you won’t miss out on great deals and discounts.
5. Make My Trip/ Viator
Always trust reliable websites like Make my Trip and Viator to make your bookings. Make my Trip is one of India’s oldest travel websites that allows you to book hotels and flights, and Viator for tours and activities. I regularly use this to book hotels and flights in India and highly recommend it. Other companies that you can consider are Travel Triangle, Airbnb, and Booking.com.
6. 112 India
The 112 is an SOS Mobile App, part of the Indian Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) developed by the Government of India. This newly launched application is available in almost all Indian states. I recommend downloading this for safety reasons. Plus, if you’re a woman traveling solo in India, here are a few more apps you can consider.
