The thing about traveling is that it prevents you from sitting down at a desktop computer — and laptop use can be limited if you’re already en route and without Wi-Fi. Smartphone apps, meanwhile, keep you connected wherever you are. Sequestered on a bus without a place to sleep that night? There’s an app that lets you book hotel rooms last-minute. Wake up to an unexpected storm just hours before departure? Another lets you quickly check the status of your flight and notifies you of delays and gate changes. Travel + Leisure editors track and test new releases to find the best mobile apps, so you can travel smarter, safer, and cheaper.