Look, we just hit 80-degree weather this week in D.C., and although the official summer kick off isn’t really until Memorial Day weekend, that doesn’t mean you can’t start planning your summer getaway now.  The goal of technology is to improve things, or make something easier, so here are some apps to make planning and enjoying that trip much easier.

Where in the world to go?

First thing’s first, deciding where you want to go.  Do you want to go somewhere warm, out of the country, kid friendly, or maybe no kids allowed.  Perhaps you saw this beautiful monument or landmark that you had to see.  Well to help you why not try Tripnary?  This  little app is like a digital bucket list, you can save things that caught your eye like restaurants, landmarks, whatever comes to mind really! Oh and not only that but when you decide you’re ready to take a trip it’ll help you compare flight prices.  Who doesn’t like a good deal? This app is only available for iOS.

 Sort your itineraries

Now that you’ve booked your trip you’ve got a dozen emails with confirmation numbers floating around in your inbox. Why not have all that information in one place? With TripIt installed on your phone then you will.  Forward your confirmation emails to plans@tripit.com and it compiles an itinerary for you.

Vacation Fashion Finds

PackPoint Packing List Travel Companion sreenshot

Packing for a trip has to be everyone’s favorite part, right after TSA check-in (*really wish there was a sarcasm font). But the last thing you want to do is not have everything for your trip.  What if it rains, what if it’s hot or even worse what if that isn’t the case while you’re on your vaca?  Well, PackPoint Packing List Traveling Companion is a lifesaver!  Tell it your destination, how long you are staying, your dates of travel, and whatever activities you have planned while you there and it makes a packing list for you!  So it cuts out the stress of packing, considering packing for most of us is done the night before we leave.

 Check-In before you get inside

Here’s a little tip: most airlines have apps, and allow you to check in from from your mobile phone. This is also handy for checking flight updates, delays, etc.  So if you’re running a little late, this helps to cut down on the time wasted in airports. One more little thing, all of these apps are free, so clear out some space on your iPhone or Android, download them and happy traveling!