Moving to abroad can be challenging, stressful and time-consuming initially. It involves adapting to new surroundings, adjusting to a different climate, and getting familiar with local culture. Thankfully, in this digital age, we can access various apps to help us streamline the process and reduce stress. Some apps can help you find the best deals on moving services, others can assist you in organizing your belongings, and some can provide helpful tips and advice. Whatever your needs are, these eleven applications can make your transition smoother and less nerve-wracking. I’ve been using all of these applications regularly ever since I moved to Canada. These apps make my life so much easier by simplifying various tasks and activities.
Download a local banking app to improve your financial habits
This is one of the most essential apps newcomers must have on their phones. This application provides a secure and user-friendly platform. It enables you to perform various financial activities quickly and conveniently from the comfort of your home or on the go. Using the app, you can make transactions, transfer funds, deposit money, start investments, and pay rent and bills all in one place.
Some of the suggested banks in Canada are:
- Royal Bank of Canada,
- Toronto-Dominion Bank,
- Bank of Nova Scotia,
- Bank of Montreal, and
- Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
Download the Transit App to plan your transportation easily
When you arrive in Canada, transportation becomes a critical aspect of your daily life. While renting a car is an option if you have an international driver’s license, most people find public transport the most convenient and affordable way to get around. Public transport routes can be confusing and challenging to keep track of schedules, especially if you’re new to the city or country.
I recommend the Transit app to help you navigate the public transport system easily. This transportation application provides real-time information about the arrival schedule of buses. It also offers you the best transit options based on your destination. You can view the transit time, price, and the number of transfers required to reach your destination.
But that’s not all. The Transit app also allows you to save the routes you find and add them to your calendar. You can even set time alarms, GPS destination alarms, and other features to help you stay on track. With the Transit app, you can be sure you’ll always catch a bus or get lost on your way to your destination.
Download the Presto App to reload your Presto card
If you plan on using public transportation in Ontario especially in Greater Toronto Area, having a Presto card with you is essential. This card is a convenient payment method for all bus and train fares. Plus, when you have a Presto card, you’ll pay a slightly reduced fare compared to the regular price.
You have two options if you need to add money to your Presto card. The first is to use one of the machines available at bus stops and railway stations. However, not all bus stops have these machines, so you’ll want to plan and know where to find them. Alternatively, you can use the Presto app to add funds to your card. This is a convenient option for those who are always on the go. Similarly, in most of the provinces there is different card is to be used for transportation so check it before you moved.
Flipp App-Download for coupons and discounts
Are you someone who likes to save money by using coupons and discounts? If yes, then the Flipp app is perfect for you! You can save money by taking advantage of multiple deals and promotions. The app uses your location to find the best deals from stores near you, including grocery, pharmacy, home and garden, electronics, pet supplies, and more.
It’s an easy and convenient way to save money on essential items and household goods. This is a great way to save money especially when you are a student. If you are interested to know about how to save money in Canada while studying then read this blog How International Students Can Save Money in Canada.
Remitly- Download to send money safely and conveniently
Remitly is a fast, secure and convenient online money transfer service. It enables you to send money from Canada to anywhere in the world. I personally use this app to transfer money and I liked a hassle-free experience with its user-friendly interface and reliable service. Its trusted reputation and competitive exchange rates make it the best choice for individuals and businesses.
KIJIJI-Download for secondhand deals and cheap rent
I am sure you heard about Facebook market place. This app is just like that you can sell or buy items from the comfort of your mobile phone.
KIJIJI also an excellent app for accommodation in Canada. you can easily find affordable rental properties and other necessities on the app. It is an essential tool for anyone starting fresh in a new place.
Uber or Lyft – Download for transportation
These apps are reliable, convenient, and cost effective way to get around. These apps are designed to deliver an excellent and seamless experience for riders and drivers, making it easy to find a ride that suits your preferences.
One of the main advantage of ride-hailing apps is their affordability. You can get a ride for a little of the cost of traditional taxi services.
Duolingo-Download for language learning
Duolingo is an exceptional language-learning app that offers exciting and interactive tools to help you improve your English or any other language skills. The app is available on mobile phones and tablets, making it easily accessible and convenient for users on-the-go.
With its comprehensive language courses, engaging exercises, and personalized feedback, Duolingo is the perfect platform for anyone who wants to enhance their language proficiency in a fun and convenient way. Recently, I’ve started learning French language and this app is an excellent for beginner.
Splitwise- Useful to split expenses
Splitwise is an easy-to-use and free mobile app that allows you to split your expenses with friends, family, or colleagues. If a group of people needs to share the cost of a bill, Splitwise ensures that everyone who pays is reimbursed the correct amount with minimal transactions. The app also tracks how much each person owes or is owed and sends reminders to help ensure that all expenses are settled promptly. With Splitwise, you can quickly and fairly split expenses with anyone, whether you’re sharing the costs of a meal, a trip, or any other shared expense.
Grammarly app-Download to improve your writing skills
It is an excellent app for students to improve their writing skills. The Grammarly app can be a handy tool. This app offers advanced grammar and spell-checking capabilities, including suggestions for sentence structure, vocabulary, and more. It can help you correct errors in your writing and also provides insights to help you improve your overall writing. With the Grammarly app, you can quickly improve your grammar errors and produce high-quality work that will impress your professors. As i am not a native English speaker, I use this app frequently such as to build a strong resume. I believe that quality matters and that’s why I also use it for my blogs to improve my grammar and writing skills.
DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, and Uber Eats
DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, and Uber Eats are online food delivery platforms allowing customers to order food from different restaurants and deliver it right to their doorstep. These apps have become increasingly popular beacause of great deals, convenience and efficiency. Customers can browse restaurants and menu items, order, and track their delivery status in real-time. It’s a convenient way to enjoy your favorite meals from the comfort of your own home.
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC)
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) is a national news organization in Canada that operates under government funding. CBC News is a comprehensive source of news and current affairs, covering many topics, including politics, business, sports, entertainment, and more. Whether you’re interested in breaking news, investigative journalism, or in-depth features, CBC News is an excellent resource for staying informed about what’s happening in Canada.
I would love to hear about the apps that you use the most. Share your thoughts with me in the comment section below. Also, let me know if you think there are any other apps that I should add to the list.
