Southeast Asia is one of the best regions for travel, but navigating through ordering and getting around can be tricky, especially with the language barrier.

Discover the best travel apps for Southeast Asia that’ll make you travel like a pro, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a first-timer. With these apps at your fingertips, you can go on the trip of your dreams while staying informed and connected.

Google Maps

This is a no-brainer, but Google Maps isn’t just any maps app. Thanks to its extensive coverage, Google Maps is one of the best navigation apps for Southeast Asia as many cities in the region contain smaller side streets.

While CityMappers and Maps.Me also offer comprehensive navigation options (especially via public transport), Google Maps is also one of the best travel planning apps. You can ‘save’ places you’d like to go and easily sort them into lists whether it’s for food, attractions, and more. These icons show up on the map, giving you an overview of all your favorite picks in one place.

Afraid of running out of data? That wouldn’t be a problem with Jetpac (see below). But if you’re keen on an internet detox, you can download a map of the area so that you can still access navigation advice while offline.

Grab

Operating in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, Grab is an ideal choice for getting around. It’s especially useful when traveling in places that don’t have an integrated public transport system, as it can cut down on time spent on the road.

You can order rideshares straight from the app, and communicating with drivers is easy thanks to its auto-translate feature. There are also a number of vehicle options, from larger cars for bigger groups to premium options for those who’d like to get around in style.

It’ll also come in handy when you want food delivered – just type in your choice, hit order, and you’re good to go! You can easily track your orders through the app and pay with a linked card or with cash.

However, it’s best to set up your account and check for alternative rideshare apps before your trip. Grab may not be available everywhere and setting up your account often requires SMS verification.

Jetpac

A lot of the best travel apps require mobile data to use. Instead of relying on public wifi or local SIM cards, try an eSIM like Jetpac instead. Jetpac covers over 200+ destinations, including 6 popular countries in its regional Southeast Asia eSIM. This means you don’t have to swap out providers as soon as you cross the border!

Compared to other alternatives, Jetpac eSIM is entirely digital. You don’t have to swap out your physical SIM card and you get to save on your roaming bills – win-win! It’s easy to set up and you can track your data usage and top up via a dedicated app.

Plus, Jetpac doesn’t have any Know Your Customer (KYC) processes compared to local SIMs you’d normally find at the airport, so no personal documents are required. Just install your eSIM before you land and turn it on for instant connection.

Jetpac is also more than just a travel eSIM. You can get free lounge access in case of flight delays and other paid add-on goodies, like fast track through security. For shorter trips, you can also create your travel itinerary with Jetpac as well.

Google Translate

Just like Google Maps, Google Translate offers more than it initially meets the eye. As a translation app, it’s easy to use with user-friendly features and multiple languages available for offline use. If you want to keep your data usage low, you can just download the languages you’ll be using before your trip.

Google Translate also has a real-time translation feature through its app. Just simply download the app and point your camera at a text, and it’ll be translated instantly. You can also dictate what you’d like to be translated into the phone, and translate conversations on the fly. Want to speak the local language? You can also save phrases and words to the app for you to listen to and review later when handy.

Klook

Want to change things up with a day trip or two? Or learn more about the local culture with an expert guide? Klook is a booking platform that lets you search and book activities. From tickets to famous theme parks to all-day tours, there’s something for everyone. You can swipe through reviews and other pics submitted by fellow travelers in the app as well.

It doesn’t just stop there. Klook also lets you book accommodation and transportation, which comes in handy if you’re intent on traveling by train or by bus. You can pay via multiple payment options, so it’s also a great alternative to booking directly. However, it’s good to note that since it’s a third-party site, it’s best to ensure you’re buying from a trusted provider.

Upgrade Your Southeast Asian Trip

Make sure you have the best travel apps for Southeast Asia on your phone before your trip. They’ll help you navigate, stay connected, and explore the region with ease.

Don’t forget to get your Jetpac eSIM before you leave – it’ll keep you connected as soon as you land!