Every little resource counts when it comes to air travel.
Videos by TravelAwaits
Thanks to mobile technology, we have more options at our fingertips than ever before.
Still, with dozens of apps in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store promising to streamline trips to the airport, you’d think spotting the most important apps would be a breeze.
In reality, knowing which apps are worth downloading takes time and experience. I personally recommend downloading an airline’s app, for example. While some are more helpful and usable than others, having an airport’s app in your back pocket is one of the best options for navigating problems like delayed and canceled flights.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
If you want to ensure you’ve got your ducks in a row the next time you have a multi-leg air travel journey ahead of you, then download these airport apps. They’re guaranteed to help you out whether you’re in a bind or just looking to streamline your trip.
Want advice on other helpful travel apps?
Airport apps that make your trip smoother
#1: Priority Pass lets you locate airport lounges that offer day passes
Once upon a time, LoungeBuddy was the end-all in terms of finding great airport lounges open to non-members.
Unfortunately, LoungeBuddy will shut down for good in January 2025—which makes Priority Pass the best choice for locating airport lounges that allow non-members to purchase day passes.
You can shop around for lounges at over 1,600 airports worldwide.
#2: TripIt lets you stay organized at 35,000 feet
Want a single place where you can upload and organize all of your travel documents? TripIt is one of the highest-rated travel apps in the world thanks to its clean design and functionality.
The app lets you easily sift through bookings, flight numbers, assigned seats, and more. On top of keeping track of your flight information, you can also use TripIt to store car rentals, tour bookings, train tickets, and more.
#3: Flightly gives you the updates you need
Billed as a ‘ticket to stress-free flying’, Flightly’s goal is to stay hyper-focused on all the updates from your flights. Just upload the relevant information, then let Flightly keep you updated on the latest alerts, predictions, delays, and more.
What I like about Flightly is the immediacy of the app. It gives you immediate updates that let you know when something has gone awry, empowering you to rebook flights, contact customer service, and more straight from the jump.
#4: MyTSA lets you check in on security waits
The goal of the MyTSA app is to alert American flyers about security. The app lets you look into airport security at all domestic locations, whether looking for information on potential delays at security or how to prepare to get through checks faster.
Though the design is basic, it’s easy to use and accurate.
#5: Mobile Passport Control gets you past customs faster
Mobile Passport Control is another app from the US government. While MyTSA lets you check on security lines at domestic airports, Mobile Passport Control is designed to streamline customs.
Mobile Passport Control lets Americans re-entering the country upload their customs forms digitally, which usually lessens the time they need to wait in customs lines.
But keep in mind that this is not the same as Global Entry. Anyone can download Mobile Passport Control without applying for enrollment.
Download Mobile Passport Control
#6: SpotHero lets you find a parking space at any airport
Do you often leave your car at the airport? SpotHero is designed to help frequent flyers find and book parking spaces.
Not only can you reserve a spot, but you can also use their handy maps to shop around for preferred parking spaces. Oh, and it works for parking concerns beyond the airport, helping you find parking whether you’re heading to work, a concert, or beyond.
