8 Must-Have Travel Apps for Sports Parents
If you’re a sports parent, you know that traveling for tournaments, games, and team events can feel like a full-time job. From booking hotels to splitting expenses, keeping track of payments, and staying organized, there are so many moving parts. The good news? There are apps that can make your life a whole lot easier.
Here are eight apps I rely on to keep travel stress to a minimum.
1. TripIt – Your Travel Itinerary in One Place
Keeping track of hotel bookings, rental cars, and flight details can be overwhelming. TripIt simplifies everything by compiling your travel plans into a single itinerary. Just forward your email confirmations, and the app organizes all the details for you. No more digging through your inbox to find check-in times or reservation numbers. I’ve used this app for 15 years, and it’s a game-changer.
2. Splitwise – Easily Track Shared Expenses
When traveling with other families or teammates, expenses can add up quickly. Splitwise keeps everything organized by tracking who paid for what. You can split costs evenly, by percentage, or by portion. At the end of the trip, everyone knows exactly how much they owe, making settling up simple and stress-free.
3. Venmo – Quick and Easy Payments
Venmo makes it easy to pay or request money from anyone. One of my favorite features is the ability to create a group for your team parents, so you can handle payments easily throughout the season. Whether you’re collecting money for team meals or reimbursing a parent who covered gas, this app makes it simple.
4. Rover – Find a Reliable Pet Sitter
If you have pets at home, leaving for a weekend tournament can be stressful. Rover helps you find a trusted pet sitter in your area. One of the things I love most is that sitters send pictures and a report card after every visit, so you know your pets are in good hands.
5. Evernote – Stay Organized on the Go
Evernote is like an external brain for all your important information. You can save notes, websites, to-do lists, and even documents. I use it to keep digital copies of important travel documents like medical cards, passports, and driver’s licenses. It’s a lifesaver when you need access to essential information on the road.
6. White Noise – Sleep Better Anywhere
Traveling means sleeping in different hotels, with unpredictable noise levels. A good white noise app helps drown out background sounds so you can sleep better. My go-to is the air conditioner sound, but there are plenty of options to choose from.
7. Hotel Apps – Skip the Front Desk Hassle
If you’re staying in a hotel, download the app for the hotel chain. Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy, and IHG all have apps that allow you to check in early, choose your room, and even use your phone as a key. No more keeping track of room key cards or standing in long lines at the front desk.
Hilton Honors | Marriott Bonvoy | IHG
8. Travel Team Hero Membership – Your All-in-One Team Management Hub
Managing a travel team is a huge job, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Travel Team Hero’s MVP Membership is a one-stop hub for team coordinators and coaches, offering templates, resources, and a supportive community. Whether you need fundraising ideas, team budget tools, or a place to connect with other sports parents, everything is in one place.