Summer is in full swing, and so are your warm-weather travel plans. And while packing clean socks and a bikini are a must, so too is toting along your iPhone. Because while socks will keep your feet cozy, and a bikini promises a nice tan, neither can entertain during that six-hour ride like your beloved hand-held device.
So whether you are traveling by plane or car, charge up your iPhone and download the following apps. You will be there before you know it.
If you enjoy board games or word jumbles, then the Words With Friends app ($1.99) is definitely for you. The app mirrors the game of Scrabble, but allows you to compete digitally with friends and acquaintances. Users can log in via Facebook, or they can create an account using their email address. Test your vocabulary with a little bit of healthy competition.
There is no more classic time-killing activity than solitaire. But as the solo card game requires a flat surface and a bit of elbow room, it is ill-suited for a plane or a car. With the Solitaire app (99 cents) you can get busy right on your phone, and not worry about cards slipping between seats, or flying out the window.
In their recent trip to North America, the Duchess of Cambridge mentioned that her new husband likes to play iPhone favorite Angry Birds (99 cents). What is good enough for Prince William is good enough for you. And who doesn’t want to help defend the angry birds against the egg-stealing pigs? This game will keep you entertained for hours. Just remember to keep your shouts of frustration to a minimum.
Tetris is to video game lovers what solitaire is to playing cards enthusiasts. And with the TETRIS app ($2.99) prepare to get your fill. The app includes varying versions of the game, the principals remain the same – line up the bricks evenly to eliminate lines. You tap to the left to turn the object left, and right to turn it right. To drop it, tap and drag down. It takes a bit of practice to master the controls, but once you do you are ready to log a highest score!
When you grow weary of playing games, put your Netflix account to use and check out the free Netflix app. You will instantly have access to television shows and movies galore. If you need to catch up on old episodes of “Gossip Girl,” “Breaking Bad,” or “30 Rock,” this is the app for you. You can stream your whole queue if you want – and you might need to depending on the length of the ride.
Good music is a must for travelers, and that is why you should take advantage of the free Pandora Radio app. The listening options are endless. Headed to Cancun? There is lots of cumbia, salsa and bachata. Going to Grandma’s in New Jersey? Go with a “Born in the USA”-themed channel. And if you just want to fall asleep, there is music for that too.
Download the free Appolicious iPhone app
