Travel in your 50s, 60s and beyond is one of life’s greatest pleasures – a chance to explore new places, revisit favourites, and enjoy more freedom to roam. But planning a trip can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with so many things to organise.
The good news? There are plenty of easy-to-use travel apps that can simplify your journey, keep you informed and connected, and help you get the most from every moment.
We’ve selected the best travel apps for over 50s – chosen for their simplicity, practical features, and real-world value. Whether you’re navigating a foreign city, managing your medication, or just trying to find the nearest toilet, these apps are here to make travel smoother.
9 Best travel apps for over 50s
These apps are handpicked for their user-friendly design, practical benefits, and everyday usefulness – especially for travellers aged 50 and above.
1. TripIt – keep all your travel plans in one place
TripIt is like having a personal travel assistant in your pocket. Simply forward your booking confirmation emails – flights, hotels, car hire, even restaurant reservations – and TripIt creates a simple, master itinerary. You can view all your plans in one place, even when you’re offline.
Why over 50s love it:
Its clean interface makes it easy to follow, with large fonts and visual timelines. No more flipping through emails or stressing over paper documents at check-in desks.
- Free version available: Yes
- Paid upgrade (TripIt Pro): Optional, offers extras like real-time flight alerts and seat tracking
2. Google Translate – communicate with confidence
Best for: Breaking down language barriers
Benefits:
Google Translate supports over 100 languages and works in multiple ways – type, voice, or even using your camera to translate menus and signs. Download the language offline for use without mobile data.
Why over 50s love it:
The voice and camera functions are a lifesaver for those who find typing on a small screen difficult. It’s also helpful if you’re hard of hearing – just let the app speak for you.
- Completely free
- Works offline: Yes (with pre-downloaded language packs)
3. Medisafe – stay on top of your medications
Best for: Managing medication while travelling
Benefits:
Medisafe sends discreet reminders when it’s time to take your tablets. You can track doses, log how you feel each day, and even allow a trusted contact to be notified if you miss a dose.
Why over 50s love it:
It’s perfect for travellers managing long-term conditions. The intuitive interface and customisable reminders reduce stress, especially when changing time zones or breaking routine.
- Free version available: Yes
- Paid upgrade: Optional premium features and advanced tracking
4. XE Currency – know what you’re spending
Best for: Currency conversion
Benefits:
XE Currency gives live exchange rates and easy currency conversions, even offline. Great for budgeting or avoiding confusion at restaurants and markets.
Why over 50s love it:
No need for mental maths or conversion charts. The app’s simple layout and big buttons are ideal for travellers who want quick answers at a glance.
- Free version available: Yes
- Paid version: Available without ads and with more features (not essential)
5. Google Maps – find your way anywhere
Best for: Navigation
Benefits:
From walking routes to public transport and driving directions, Google Maps is your reliable travel companion. Save maps offline, see local attractions, and use voice-guided navigation to get around confidently.
Why over 50s love it:
Easy-to-follow directions and real-time updates take the stress out of exploring new areas. If you struggle with small street signs or confusing layouts, this app keeps you on track.
- Completely free
- Works offline: Yes (with downloaded maps)
6. WhatsApp – stay in touch with loved ones
Best for: Free calls and messaging over Wi-Fi
Benefits:
Send texts, voice notes, photos and make video calls – all for free over Wi-Fi. You can even share your live location if needed.
Why over 50s love it:
No roaming charges or tricky phone cards. Simple to use and trusted by millions, it’s the easiest way to stay in touch with friends and family back home.
- Completely free
- Requires an internet connection
7. Flush – find toilets quickly
Best for: Locating public toilets
Benefits:
Flush uses your location to show nearby public toilets, with details on accessibility, opening hours, and even user ratings. It’s available on both Android and Apple devices.
Why over 50s love it:
It removes the anxiety of unfamiliar places, especially for those with bladder or mobility concerns. A must-have for city breaks or long sightseeing days.
- Free
- Requires mobile data or Wi-Fi for best results
8. Sitata Travel Safe – stay ahead of travel disruptions
Best for: Travel alerts and health updates
Benefits:
Sitata monitors global news, health risks, outbreaks, and travel disruptions. It sends real-time notifications and maps areas of concern. It also lets you track local hospitals and emergency services at your destination.
Why over 50s love it:
It helps travellers feel safe and prepared, especially in uncertain destinations. The clean interface is easy to use, and it works well alongside travel insurance for managing health-related risk.
- Free version available: Yes
- Paid plan: Optional travel protection services
- Some features are available offline
9. Red Panic Button – quick access to emergency help
Best for: Emergency contact alerts
Benefits:
The Red Panic Button app allows you to send an instant emergency message – including your GPS location – to a pre-set list of contacts with just one tap. You can customise the alert text and choose who receives it (e.g. a family member, friend, or carer).
Why over 50s love it:
Whether you’re travelling solo, have health concerns, or just want a simple backup plan, this app offers reassurance and quick communication in case something goes wrong. There’s no need to find numbers or dial – help is just a tap away.
- Free version available: Yes
- Paid upgrade: Adds extra features like audio/video alerts and location tracking
- Works offline: Limited functionality; panic message requires internet or mobile signal
Bonus tip: download your apps before you go
Many of these apps work offline – but only if you download the necessary data in advance. Before your trip, set up each app, download any maps or language packs, and customise reminders to suit your routine.
Don’t forget your travel insurance
Even with the best apps, travel doesn’t always go to plan. That’s why it’s essential to protect your holiday with travel insurance for over 50s from InsureandGo. Whether it’s a delayed flight, lost baggage, or unexpected medical treatment abroad, we’ve got you covered – so you can travel worry-free.