Apps to Install Before You Fly

A short checklist of apps worth installing on your phone before you leave the U.S. Most are free. All of them will save you time, money, or a small panic at some point during the trip. Set them up at home on familiar Wi-Fi rather than fumbling at the airport.

The essentials — install all of these

• WhatsApp — most of Europe (and much of the rest of the world) uses WhatsApp instead of regular text messaging. Your drivers, tour guides, the Getaways team, and locals will almost always reach you over WhatsApp. Free.
• Google Maps — with the destination downloaded for offline use. Before you fly, search for your destination city (Albufeira for Portugal, Cabo San Lucas for Cabo), tap the city name, and download an offline map. Now Maps works even when you have no signal.
• Google Translate — with the destination’s language downloaded for offline use. Same idea: tap the language, tap the download icon. Now you can translate menus, signs, and conversations without a data connection.
• Uber — works in both Portugal and Mexico. Cheaper, easier, and safer than hailing a random taxi.
• XE Currency — quick conversions between U.S. dollars and Euros (or Pesos for Cabo). Handy when you’re wondering whether that’s a fair price.
• Mobile Passport Control — free U.S. Customs & Border Protection app. Skip the long Customs line when you re-enter the U.S. Underused and well worth the 5 minutes to set up.
• Your airline’s app — American, United, Delta, whoever you’re flying. Mobile boarding passes, real-time gate changes, easy rebooking if a flight gets delayed.

Useful but optional

• Airalo or Holafly — eSIM apps that give you cheap international data plans without dealing with your U.S. carrier. Great if your carrier’s international plan is expensive or your trip is longer.
• The Kimpton Atlântico Algarve app (for Portugal) or the Pueblo Bonito app (for Cabo) — some on-property services and reservations can be handled directly from the hotel’s app.

Quick setup checklist

• Install all of the above on home Wi-Fi.
• Open each one once and sign in (so you’re not creating accounts at the airport).
• For Maps and Translate: download offline data for your destination city/language.
• For your airline app: add your trip and download your boarding pass the night before.
• For WhatsApp: confirm your phone number, set up your name and a profile photo, and verify it’s working by messaging a friend.