In my opinion, there are many benefits to layovers. Yes, it is wonderful to arrive in your destination after fighting for overhead bin space only once. However, in instances like today, where I had no chance of a direct flight (oh Northwest Florida International Airport, when will you live up to your full moniker?), I’m taking the opportunity to indulge in some enthralling people watching and play on my iPad.

I don’t have an iPhone, so I’m taking great joy in exploring travel apps. Here are just a few that I think are highly useful:

Tripit: I started using this when it was only online and I really enjoy having access through an app. You can link your email address so that when you receive confirmations from airlines, hotels, rental cars or other plans, Tripit will automatically create an itinerary for you with all of the details.

Delta: I like the Delta app so far. Tracking flight status, checking in and searching for new flights in the advent of changes are just a few of the options. The real test will be the baggage checker: I’ll see if it confirms that my backpack is heading to the same destination that I am.

WorldNomads language apps: I was so excited to find these apps. Featuring helpful phrases, vocabulary and even a link to an online Q&A forum, I’ve downloaded apps for Thai, Vietnamese, Laotian, Cambodian and Simple Chinese. I won’t be fluent, but I’ll be able to get around!

What are some of your favorite travel apps?