Apps are vital to the travel industry, whether checking flight status, using a mobile key to unlock hotel rooms or sharing thoughts on a destination with the world. However, some apps are certainly better than others, and all travelers have opinions. ARC from Applause, an app data compiler and researcher, sifted through 3 million Apple App Store and Google Play reviews to determine which apps are the favorites out of eight different categories — booking, cruising, driving, exploring, flying, navigating, riding and staying. Booking apps are used most frequently and are the second-highest rated category of apps overall. Most booking apps are well-designed and function in a user-friendly way. The top three booking apps are Booking.com, Cheapflights and HotelTonight. The cruise industry is sorely lacking in app-focused passenger engagement. There aren’t many apps on the market, and few travelers use them. The top cruise line-affiliated app is Disney Cruise Line Navigator, followed by Carnival HUB. Driving apps include those created for rideshares, rentals and taxi services. Surprisingly, Lyft and Uber don’t make an appearance in the top three, and neither do any car rental companies. The top spots go to Hailo, Easy Taxi and Zipcar. Explore apps are used to discover new places, attractions and helpful spots in a particular destination. Quite a few recognizable travel apps are grouped under this broad category. The top app, however, probably isn’t what you think. GasBuddy took the first spot, followed by Groupon and Triposo. Airline apps brought in some surprising winners. The airlines with the best-rated apps are Alaska Airlines, which wins by a large margin; Turkish Airlines; and British Airways. At the bottom of the pack are Aer Lingus, Hawaiian Airlines and RyanAir. Navigating and riding apps are closely related, as they help get around a destination, whether using one’s own vehicle, bike or public transportation. The top-rated category overall is Navigate, with winners like Citymapper and Waze. Favorite riding apps are more specific, such as Rail Planner by Eurail Group and Trainline. Hotel apps have seen a large improvement over the last year, and it’s no surprise Hilton and SPG lead the group, with perks such as mobile entry and partnerships with other travel brands to make your stay as convenient and enjoyable as possible. What’s your favorite travel app? Email us and let us know. Please include your full name and location with your email.