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Off grid but not offline

No signal? These great apps have you covered.

We live in a hyper-connected world so occasional disconnected time is no bad thing. Think campsites deep in the wilderness, train journeys with dramatic mountain tunnels or long transatlantic flights.

That being said, being off grid doesn’t mean you can’t stay entertained (even if you’re isolated in a remote Antarctic research base). Whatever’s on your next itinerary, these are the essential travel companions that prove going offline doesn’t mean going out of touch.

Nothing induces travel anxiety quite like needing to ask for the nearest petrol station in a language you don’t speak when your tank is almost empty... right as your signal drops. That won’t happen when you have iTranslate Translator installed on your device. The app lets you download 41 language packs ahead of time so you always have a fluent translator in your pocket, regardless of your connection status.

Editors’ offline tip: Create a Custom Phrasebook with predefined expressions that you can access easily no matter where you are.

You’ve chosen your next adventure – a hidden waterfall, an isolated beach, a hike to the highest peak in the area – so the last thing you want is to lose your route because you lost your connection. AllTrails allows you to download trail maps in advance so you always know exactly where you are, even in the most remote corners of the planet. With the topographical trail maps you can track your GPS location even offline.

Editors’ offline tip: Before going offline, ensure you’re logged into the app so you can access your downloaded maps when entering a cellular dead zone.

It’s not all about solitary hikes and astonishing views. Even on an off-the-grid adventure you can still enjoy moments of leisure by watching your favourite content creators. YouTube Premium subscribers can download videos, playlists and even entire channels directly to their device before heading out for uninterrupted offline viewing. Sit back, press play and say goodbye to buffering wheels.

Editors’ offline tip: Can’t find the download button? Log in, subscribe if you’re not a premium user and find it under the three-dot menu below videos.

Enjoy a pocket-sized library

Fiction lovers, romance addicts, self-improvement devotees and podcast enthusiasts will love how Audible turns every trip into an opportunity to get lost in a great story. The app’s audiobooks and podcasts are lovely companions for long driving hours along remote country roads or while solo hiking, bringing a little extra drama to the scenery around you.

Editors’ offline tip: Need to travel light? Download your favourite titles directly to your Apple Watch.