With a small size and a powerful processor, the I-phone is much more than just a phone, it is an indispensable tool for travelers. Traveling with your I phone or I pod touch can eliminate the need to carry a bulky laptop computer with you when traveling. There are thousands of applications that can make your phone a more useful travel tool, in fact there are so many apps to choose from that it can be overwhelming to choose among them. Here are some of the most highly recommended travel-related apps that are sure to help make your next trip even better.

1. Beatthetraffic: This is an invaluable tool for someone who is on the road a lot. Beatthetraffic is an integrated app which shows real-time updates on the latest traffic and road closures, combined with current weather forecasts. It includes the ability for users to report traffic incidents as they happen, adding to the validity of the traffic information. Beatthetraffic includes the entire United States as well as much of Canada, and includes live traffic camera views from over 31 large cities. Beatthetraffic is a subscription service which costs $19.95 a year, but you can download a free two week trial to see if it is the right app for you.

2. Nextflight: For frequent fliers, this is a great application to help make planning air travel easier. For only $2.99 you get lists over over 1,000 flights so if you are bumped, you can make alternative plans quickly on the go. This app searches by day, time, and carrier so you can find the flight you need.

3. IamHere: This app is more fun than it is practical. IamHere uses the phone's integrated GPS ability to send emails to your friends with a Google map showing your exact location. Even better than sending a postcard for letting those back home know you are safe and sound.

4. Lonely Planet Phrasebook: If you plan to travel extensively throughout the world, this is a great app. You can input a phrase, then the app speaks the translated phrase out loud. For those who travel in far-flung countries, this app is well-worth the $9.99 price tag.

5. Skype: It seems like an old favorite, but Skype for Iphone is a traveler's best friend. Avoid paying high long distance call fees while you are traveling, instead download Skype and you can make calls for free any time you are in a wi-fi hot spot.