Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Palau

When you’re traveling to Palau, having the right apps can make your trip smoother and more fun. Whether you’re looking for a reliable navigation app or seeking local transport options, these tools will help you. I’ve listed both free and paid apps to fit any budget.

Google Maps

Google Maps is super handy when you’re abroad. It’s free and covers Palau well, helping you find your way around with no fuss.

You can download offline maps, so even if your phone signal is weak, you won’t get lost. It’s perfect for navigating the roads and paths of Palau.

Maps.me

If you’re going off the grid, Maps.me is a great alternative to Google Maps. You can download the entire map of Palau for offline use.

Maps.me is free and focuses on easy navigation without burning through your mobile data.

XE Currency Converter

XE is a valuable currency app for converting USD to other currencies if you’re moving between countries on your trip. You can download rates and use them offline, too, if you’re heading to remote parts of Palau with poor internet.

The free version works well, but for more detailed features, there’s a paid version.

Rome2Rio

For figuring out different travel options around Palau (and beyond), Rome2Rio rocks. It shows various ways to get from point A to point B using buses, trains, ferries, and flights.

It’s a free tool that works beautifully for planning trips, both local and regional. Just enter your starting point and destination.

TripIt

TripIt helps with keeping all your travel plans organized. Add hotel reservations, flight schedules, and any other bookings into one clean list.

The basic version is free, but the paid version offers extra features like real-time flight alerts. It’s great for staying on track without juggling multiple emails or papers.

Google Translate

Though English is widely spoken in Palau, having Google Translate handy might come in clutch when interacting with locals who speak Palauan.

Google Translate’s free and supports text and audio translations. Don’t forget to download the Palauan language for offline use before you go.

Booking.com

Booking.com is the go-to for finding accommodations in Palau. Whether you’re searching for hotels, resorts, or guesthouses, it covers most options on the islands.

The app is free, and the prices are competitive. Plus, Booking.com often lets you cancel reservations for free, making it super flexible if your plans change last minute.

Airbnb

If you prefer a more personal lodging experience, Airbnb is a good option. Apartments, homes, and single rooms are all available to rent.

The Airbnb app is free, and it’s especially useful for finding unique stays, like beachfront homes or bungalows on Palau’s quieter islands.

Grab

Grab isn’t available in Palau yet, but it’s worth noting if you’re heading to other nearby Asian countries like the Philippines after Palau. It’s a ride-hailing app much like Uber, and it’s great for catching cheap, reliable rides.

The app is free, and you can use it to book both taxis and private cars in many major Southeast Asian cities.

Skyscanner

Skyscanner is great for booking flights in and out of Palau. The app lets you compare flights from different airlines, including budget and full-service options.

It’s free to use and shows you the cheapest travel days. You can also set up price alerts to monitor if flight prices drop.

Google Flights

Google Flights is an alternative to Skyscanner. It has a simple interface where you can browse flight prices, filter airlines, and check baggage fees.

The app is also free and super reliable for finding cheap tickets at any time.

OpenTable

For food lovers, OpenTable will make dining reservations in Palau a breeze. Though Palau has many casual restaurants and local eateries you can walk into, booking ahead can be useful for upscale places, or when it gets busy.

The OpenTable app is free, and it connects you directly with popular restaurants around the islands.

Weather Underground

Want real-time weather updates? Grab Weather Underground before your trip. It provides hyper-local reports, which is crucial when planning beach trips or dives.

It’s free, but you can remove ads with the paid version. This app is great for daily weather tracking while on the water or hiking trails in Palau’s rainy season.

UberVPN

Palau is beautiful, but Wi-Fi connections may be weak outside the tourist zones. Having a VPN helps you stay connected securely, especially if you’re using public Wi-Fi in hotels or cafes.

Paid VPN services like ExpressVPN or NordVPN offer superb security and speed, but if you’re looking for a free option, Windscribe offers good service with free data plans. Just set it up before you go.

WiFi Map

If you’re looking for free Wi-Fi hotspots while traveling around Palau, WiFi Map is key. Users share passwords to countless public and private networks.

WiFi Map has a free version, but there’s also a paid version that comes with faster servers for browsing.

Flush Toilet Finder

Finding clean restrooms in rural areas can be tricky. Enter Flush Toilet Finder, a free app that points you to the nearest public bathroom.

It’s simple to use and highly useful for remote islands and hidden beaches.

Tide Apps

If you’re diving or snorkeling in Palau’s famous reefs, downloading a tide app like Tides Near Me is a smart move. These apps give you tide predictions and current water conditions.

The app is free and saves your spot by using offline data, which is useful if you lose signal out on the sea.

GetYourGuide

For tours and activities in Palau, GetYourGuide is easy to navigate and offers a range of tours suited to all budgets.

The app itself is free, and you’ll find guided diving expeditions, hikes, and historical tours.

Spotify

If you’re heading somewhere without internet, make sure you have your tunes loaded onto Spotify. You can download your favorite playlists and listen offline while relaxing on Palau’s white-sanded beaches.

Spotify is free, but the paid version gives you extra features like ad-free music and offline use.

Google Drive

Storing digital copies of your passport, itinerary, and hotel bookings can be a lifesaver. Google Drive is accessible from any device and gives you peace of mind.

It’s free for basic storage, though you can purchase extra space for a fee if you need more.

Conclusion

Exploring Palau is exciting, but having the right travel apps makes it way easier. With these tools, you can keep your trip stress-free and focused on adventure instead of logistics.

Download a few before boarding your flight, and you’ll be all set for an amazing trip!