Traveling to Samoa is an incredible adventure. Whether you’re planning your trip, navigating the islands, or finding the best local food spots, these travel apps and tools will make your visit simpler and more enjoyable.
1. Google Maps
Cost: Free
Google Maps is a must-have for finding your way around Samoa. While the islands are small, many places are spread out, and public transportation is limited. With Google Maps, you can easily navigate between villages, find tourist spots, and even locate the hidden beaches. I suggest downloading offline maps since cellular coverage can be spotty in remote areas.
2. Maps.me
Cost: Free
If you need a reliable app that works without internet access, Maps.me works like a charm. The app lets you download maps in advance and navigate while you’re offline. It’s great for those days when you’re hiking deep in Samoa’s beautiful nature and have no service. Plus, it highlights points of interest that are off the beaten path.
3. XE Currency
Cost: Free
XPF (Samoan Tala) is the local currency of Samoa. XE Currency is the best app to quickly get accurate exchange rates. The prices for things like food, transportation, and souvenirs can fluctuate, so you’ll want this app to make sure you’re not getting overcharged. It even works offline if you download the rates before venturing out.
4. Rome2Rio
Cost: Free
Figuring out how to get from one place to another in or around Samoa is easier with Rome2Rio. The app shows all available transportation options, from buses, boats, taxis, and more. It gives you full route options and estimates on how long it will take to get there. Plus, it helps you compare transport prices, so you know what to budget for each trip.
5. Talofa Pass
Cost: Free
This app is designed specifically for Samoa and is required for entry as part of Samoa’s border protection measures. It helps you fill out your personal information and submit health declarations before you arrive in the country. It’s a smooth way to make sure you’ve got all your paperwork ready and avoid any last-minute issues on arrival day.
6. Google Translate
Cost: Free
English is widely spoken in tourist areas of Samoa, but outside the main villages, you’ll run into people who speak Samoan more often. Using Google Translate can help you understand signs, menus, or conversations. You can download the Samoan language for offline use, so you won’t need internet access to translate key phrases when you’re out exploring.
7. Moovit
Cost: Free
Sam’s public transport system is a bit limited, but if you find yourself in Apia, Moovit can be a helpful app for checking bus routes and schedules. While it might not cover every corner of the islands, it’s reliable in the more populated areas like Apia, helping you figure out when and where to catch the local buses.
8. Booking.com
Cost: Free
When it comes to booking accommodation in Samoa, you’ll find plenty of options on Booking.com. Whether you’re looking for basic beach fales or more luxurious stays, this app gives you access to reviews, pricing, and last-minute deals. It’s easy to filter by your preferences and find the best spot for your stay.
9. Skyscanner
Cost: Free
If you’re trying to find the best flight deals to or from Samoa, Skyscanner is a solid choice. The app compares different airlines and booking platforms to give you the lowest ticket prices. You can even set up alerts if you’re flexible on dates and wait until the price drops to book your flight.
10. Grab (Samoa Taxi Service)
Cost: Free
While taxis in Samoa don’t run on meters, Grab is a useful ride-hailing app that allows you to book a taxi or private car directly, so you don’t have to worry about haggling over the price with drivers. You can plan your trips and get a better estimate of what the ride will cost.
11. TripIt
Cost: Free/Paid Version Available
This app is a lifesaver when it comes to organizing your trip details in one place. TripIt automatically imports your flight, hotel, and activity bookings from your email, creating a simple itinerary. Even better: it works offline. So, when you’re somewhere without internet (common in Samoa), your travel plans will still be easy to access.
12. Visa Checker (iVisa)
Cost: Free
If you’re not sure whether you need a tourist visa to visit Samoa, iVisa’s Visa Checker is a great tool. It takes only a few seconds to verify visa requirements based on your nationality, so no need to dive into confusing government websites. If you need a visa, it also helps you apply directly through the app.
13. PocketEarth
Cost: Free/Paid version available
PocketEarth is another fantastic offline map app that is known for its topographic maps. If you’re into hiking, this app can help you track trails and plan your walk through Samoa’s lush rainforests and waterfalls. The detailed offline topography is a major plus for adventurers who want to trek off-grid without worrying about losing their way.
14. Trail Wallet
Cost: Paid
Managing travel expenses while on vacation can be difficult, so if you want extra help keeping track of every tala, Trail Wallet is great. It’s a user-friendly expense tracker designed primarily for travelers. You can set a daily budget, categorize expenses, and receive daily updates on how much you’ve spent or saved.
15. WhatsApp
Cost: Free
WhatsApp is one of the best apps to use in Samoa for keeping in touch with friends or family back home. It uses WiFi or cellular data to send messages or make voice and video calls. Many travelers and locals in Samoa use WhatsApp because it’s accessible and reliable where cellular signals might be weak.
16. Airbnb
Cost: Free
If you’re not interested in the usual hotel options, Airbnb can help you find unique stays in local homes, guesthouses, and beach cottages. This app is worth checking for more personal and authentic Samoan experiences. Sometimes, locals also offer to show hidden spots when you stay with them, adding to the charm of your trip.
17. Snapseed
Cost: Free
You’ll want to photograph the stunning Samoan beaches, mountains, and villages, and Snapseed is one of the best free editing apps available to adjust your travel photos for social media. It’s super easy to use, and you can quickly enhance your shots with just a few taps while relaxing on the beach.
18. Uber (or Samoa’s equivalent)
Cost: Free
Uber isn’t widely available in Samoa, but some local equivalents are popping up. Keep an eye out for apps like SafeBoda or other local ride-hailing services as they launch. These services are generally cleaner, more reliable, and can be a safer way to find transportation across the islands.
19. AllTrails
Cost: Free/Paid version available
If you love hiking, AllTrails is another useful app that has coverage for trails across Samoa. It’s great for finding nearby hikes, checking elevation, and reading reviews from other travelers. The free version has basic features, but the paid version gives you access to download maps for offline use, making it ideal for those remote trails.
20. Klook
Cost: Free
Klook is perfect for booking activities, tours, and attractions in advance. You can grab passes for island tours, boat trips, and cultural experiences. It’s an easy-to-use app with a wide array of activities in Samoa, so you can always find something fun to do next.
These travel apps and tools will help ensure you have an incredible experience in Samoa. From finding accommodation and transportation to discovering new spots, these apps cover everything you need for a smooth and adventurous trip. Safe travels!
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