Using Your Mobile Device on the Road

Mobile technology isn’t new, but travel providers are still finding fresh ways to use on-the-go connectivity to make traveling a little smoother. Here are a few ways you can use your mobile device on the road:

Boarding Passes

Cell phone boarding passes aren’t new, but the ability to use your mobile device both to check in and board your aircraft is becoming more widespread. Here’s a list of airlines that allows you to board with a bar code downloaded onto your mobile phone:

• American
• Continental
• Delta
• Alaska (and Horizon)
• Lufthansa
• Iberia
• Swiss
• Air France

Other airlines, such as British Airways and Southwest, have apps that let you check in from your mobile device, though you’ll still have to print out your boarding pass. Still more airlines, like JetBlue, have streamlined mobile sites where travelers can check in, select seats, or change a reservation.

**Update, March 12** American just added 19 more airports to mobile boarding pass program. United has also added the option.

Still Need a Room?

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Hotels are starting to roll out mobile apps that let people book rooms or manage reservations from the road. Hilton debuted its app last summer, and now has individual apps for seven of its brands, while Choice Hotels, Starwood, Omni Hotels, and the Four Seasons have apps as well. Intercontinental Hotels has one due this spring.

Priceline also has its Negotiator app, which lets you book on the go.

Put it All Together

Expedia recently launched TripAssist, a free iPhone app that lets travelers book, track, and change a reservation. You can also sign up for flight-specific text or email alerts.

Of course, this just scratches the surface of what your mobile device can do on the road. For more information, read our Top 10 Mobile Apps for Travelers and Ed Perkins’ take on the most popular travel apps.

Readers, do you use a mobile device when traveling? Share your tips and secrets, whether it’s a great app or simply a smart way to utilize your phone’s capabilities. Thanks!