If you want to be mistaken for a local at any destination you visit, make sure you have the hottest travel apps on your phone. From Google Trips to Maps.me and Currency, we give you the low down on our favourite apps so you can bear them in mind when preparing your next trip.

We all like travelling and discovering different places by ourselves, but let's face it, nowadays apps make our life easier in this sense. Especially when we're on holiday, when we have to make the most of the little time we have.

Besides, now that roaming charges in Europe are regulated, it's easier to use data when you travel without having to pay a fortune or buy a SIM card in the destination country.

These are some of my favourite apps.

1. Google Trips

   The latest invention from Google, this app combines the potential of Google geolocation with a fairly intuitive user experience, and you don't even need an internet connection. Best of all, you can find all the details about your trip in one place—bookings, confirmation numbers, etc.—because the app gathers them directly from Gmail. It can also design itineraries automatically and show you things to do near the places you visit.

2. Maps.me

   Another app that doesn't need an internet connection to tell you how to get to a place or simply point you in the right direction. With Maps.me you can download maps of cities all over the world and check them offline, so you don't need to use any data or carry around those huge folding maps full of adverts that hotels give away. (Free for iOS and Android)

3. Citymapper

   This app helps you to know how to get around using transport in the city: you say where you want to go and Citymapper will tell you the best option to get to your destination as soon as possible. Right now Citymapper is available for major European cities: Rome, London, Paris, Barcelona, Madrid, etc. Try it out at one of our destinations! (Free for iPhone and Android.)

4. Weather & Radar

   There are lots of weather apps, but we like Weather & Radar, a complete and detailed app that tells you the weather at your destination (obviously), and also lets you check the weather hourly, for the next eight days, and information on the wind speed and snow. You can also install a widget on your home screen so that you can check the information directly. (Free for iPhone and Android.)

5. Currency

   It's so annoying to have to convert prices in your head when you travel to other countries with a different currency… Currency helps you to get the right price: you'll know exactly how much you're paying and you won't be unpleasantly surprised. (Free for Android.)

6. AroundMe

   Where is the nearest cash machine? Where can we park? Where can we go for a drink? AroundMe has all the answers to these questions. It's an app that tells you all about the most interesting and useful places around you... hence the name! It's ideal if you don't like improvising. (Free for iPhone and Android.)

7. Splitwise

   Whether you're travelling as a couple or with friends, the best way to figure out costs is by using Splitwise, a very convenient and well-designed app where you can record what everyone spends and it's easier to share bills. A good way to get everyone to cough up! (Free for iPhone and Android.)

And if you like planning every last detail when you travel and you don't want to forget anything, check out our "Tips for flying". Have a good trip!