PITTSBURGH (CBS) – Going on vacation is supposed to be relaxing, but air travel can be anything but.

Crowded flights, delays that make connections nearly impossible and let’s not forget the weather, they are all inevitable for frequent fliers and they can all do a real job on your travel plans.

To help ease all that stress, the editors of SmarterTravel.com came up with a list of the top five travel apps.

Flyers Rights: (99 cents)

This app will give you the full rundown of all the new government regulations designed to protect travelers. Including the fact that airlines can no longer leave you stranded in a plane on a tarmac for more than three hours. It won’t make your flight take off any faster, but at least you will know where you stand.

Next Flight: ($2.99)

This app will help when your carrier cancels your flight and you are stuck at the airport. “What it will do is allow you to find the next available flight for that day and up to 2 days. That way when you are stranded you’ll be the first to be rebooked,” explained SmarterTravel editor Anne Banas.

SkyScanner: (free)

This app will help you find the best deal in a flight. It searches both the airlines and online travel agencies like Expedia and Kayak. “That will give you a great way to search for things based on how much you want to spend, your destination and your departure airport,” Banas said.

B4 You Board: (free)

This is a new app that is only available in a few airports right now. It’s perfect for the traveler who feels too stressed out to take the time to stop and wait in line for a bite to eat. It will allow you to purchase meals and have them delivered right to the gate. The developer hopes to expand this app to more airports in the company months.

Priority Pass: (free)

This app is for those who like to wait in comfort. It will find airport lounges that will allow you to wait in a bit of luxury if your flight is delayed or if you have a long layover. There is usually a fee associated with the use of the lounge, but it may be worth the money if you have a long wait ahead of you.

RELATED LINKS:
More Consumer News
More Featured Stories