5 Underrated Travel Apps That Work Best With a Reliable SIM

Travelling the world is an incredible experience, but staying connected is key to making the most of your adventure. While a local SIM or eSIM is your golden ticket to seamless connectivity, did you know that pairing it with the right apps can elevate your travel game even further?

Beyond the usual suspects, there are some truly underrated gems that become indispensable when you have a reliable data connection. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe, travelling with family, or on a whirlwind business trip, these apps thrive with strong, real-time connectivity — exactly what a good travel SIM delivers.

Here are five such apps that will make your next trip smoother, more enjoyable, and truly connected:

1. Rome2Rio – Your Multi-Modal Transport Maestro

Getting from point A to point B in a foreign country can be a puzzle. Enter Rome2Rio, an app that takes the guesswork out of travel planning. It’s more than just a map — it’s a comprehensive global transport search engine.

How it works with your SIM:
Rome2Rio shines when it can access real-time data. Input your starting point and destination, and it will instantly show you all possible ways to get there — by plane, train, bus, ferry, rideshare, or even a mix of all. It includes estimated travel times, prices, and even links to book tickets.

With a reliable SIM, you get up-to-date schedules, fare comparisons, and route changes on the go — making it easy to pivot your plans when needed, especially in countries with constantly shifting transit timetables.

2. Flush – Never Be Caught Off Guard Again

This one might sound trivial, but trust us: when nature calls in an unfamiliar city, Flush becomes your best friend. The app features a global database of public toilets.

How it works with your SIM:
Imagine the relief of quickly finding the nearest clean toilet when you’re exploring a new neighbourhood. With your SIM providing instant GPS data and internet access, Flush can pinpoint facilities nearby — indicating whether they have disabled access, require payment, or need a key.

No more desperate searches in unfamiliar streets — just quick, reliable relief thanks to your constant connection.

3. iTranslate – Break Down Language Barriers Instantly

Communication is essential when travelling, and iTranslate is a powerful tool for bridging language gaps. While many travellers know of translation apps, iTranslate’s real magic appears when paired with a strong data connection.

How it works with your SIM:
Beyond text translation, your SIM enables iTranslate to perform real-time voice translations, which are incredibly helpful during live conversations with locals. The “Lens Mode” lets you scan signs or menus using your camera for instant translations — a lifesaver when ordering food or navigating new streets.

While offline packs are handy, having a live connection ensures more accurate translations and access to premium features like voice-to-voice and regional dialect recognition.

4. Xe Currency Converter – Stay Smart with Your Spending

Managing your budget in different currencies can be tricky. Xe Currency Converter provides live, accurate exchange rates so you can make smart spending decisions on the go.

How it works with your SIM:
The key benefit of Xe with a SIM is access to live mid-market exchange rates — meaning you’ll always know the true value of what you’re paying for. Whether you're browsing markets in Vietnam or buying coffee in Paris, your SIM keeps Xe updated in real time so you can spend confidently and avoid nasty surprises on your bank statement.

5. Google Maps Offline – And Why Your SIM Still Matters

Google Maps is a travel staple, but its offline features are often underrated. While you can pre-download maps before your trip, a reliable SIM makes the initial setup and updates far easier — and more powerful.

How to sync them with your SIM:

1. Connect to your SIM's mobile data.
2. Open Google Maps and tap your profile picture.
3. Select “Offline maps” > “Select your own map.”
4. Pan and zoom to the area you’ll visit.
5. Tap Download.

Once saved, you’ll get turn-by-turn driving directions — even without signal. But here’s the secret: with a SIM, you can still access real-time traffic, public transport schedules, business hours, and reroutes based on road conditions. So you’re never really “offline” unless you want to be.

The Bottom Line: Good Apps Deserve a Great SIM

These five apps — while powerful on their own — truly reach their full potential when paired with a reliable travel SIM or eSIM. From navigating complex transport systems and avoiding tourist traps to communicating confidently and managing your travel budget, a strong data connection is the invisible backbone of every smooth journey.

So before your next adventure, make sure your phone is equipped with a trustworthy SIM and these incredible tools. You’ll travel smarter, stress less, and discover more.

Ready to connect effortlessly across borders? Explore our Travel SIMs here