If you’re already stressing about all things holiday, there’s an app for that.
Well, not really (at least we don’t think so), but there are apps to help make your life easier when you’re shopping, cooking, traveling and doing everything else this holiday season.
Cooking
How to Cook Everything ($9.99). It’s pricey, but with more than 2,000 recipes and 400 how-to illustrations, this best-selling cookbook turned app will help you look like a top chef this year. With built-in timers, recipe variations, skill tutorials and more, you’ll have all the tools you need to conquer holiday meals.
AnyList Grocery List (free). This new app will make holiday grocery shopping a snap. The sharing feature allows you to pawn off your list to the kids if you don’t have time to swing by the store. You can also browse recipes that use a certain ingredient to get ideas.
Martha Stewart Makes Cookies (free for a limited time). Want unlimited access to Martha’s recipe library? You’ve got it! Save your favorites in your own library, browse recipes by category and use the built-in timer during baking. Then submit your best creations to our cookie contest.
Shopping
Nextag Shopping (free). Rather than scouring every major site for deals, use this app to find the products you want for the best price. Scan a barcode or type in an item to find the best deal in seconds, or snap a photo of the item to identify and find it. You can even get price alerts and see tax and shipping costs based on location.
Target (free). This one keeps making our list of best apps for a reason. Navigate Target with ease as you scan prices, redeem special deals and create lists to remind you of things you need. Another cool feature allows you to find hot new products and seasonal specials.
Shop Style (free). Shop for even the most difficult of teenage girls using this product-finding app. If she has her heart set on a certain item, simply search for the broad term—like cognac boots or yellow dress—or brand, and browse through matching products from more than 300 retailers. Scan through the results and make your purchase right from the app. Done.
Travel
WhatsApp Messenger ($0.99). If you’re traveling out of the country this holiday season, or have kids who are heading off to study abroad, WhatsApp is a must-have. This cross-platform app lets you message other smartphone users with the app from anywhere in the world—for free!
TripIt Travel Organizer (free). Easily store all of your travel plans in one place, so you’re not holding up the line at the airport as you fumble through your email. Forward your confirmation emails to plans@tripit.com and they are instantly recognized and saved on the app.
FlightTrack – Live Flight Status Tracker by Mobiata ($4.99). If you’re on duty for picking up family from the airport, or want to ensure your own flight is on track, this app is a lifesaver. Check flight status, gate information, delays, cancellations and more.
Just for Fun
Christmas Tree Decorator ($0.99). If one tree just isn’t enough, this app lets you decorate your own virtual tree while festive tunes play in the background. Set up your tree next to stockings over a roaring fire or outside in a winter wonderland, and use the Christmas countdown feature to pump up the family.
Where is Santa Lite – Santa Tracker (free). This year when the kiddos ask where Santa is, give them answers! This fun app let’s you accurately track St. Nick’s moves as he delivers gifts around the world. You can even determine the exact time of his arrival at your house.
Hanukkah Activity Center ($0.99). This fun app was created by kids for kids for the ultimate Hanukkah experience. Give the dreidel a spin, cook latkes and light colorful candles on the menorah while you sing along to your favorite Hanukkah songs.
Other Noteworthy Apps
OpenTable (free). With family and friends in town, this app will help you snag that last-minute reservation.
Embark Metra (free). Shuttling back and forth between downtown and the ‘burbs is way less stressful when all the information you need is right at your fingertips.
Gift Plan ($2.99). This app makes planning gifts for everyone on your list a piece of cake. Mark special occasions on the calendar, list gift ideas and prices and check items off your list when you finished shopping.
