Apps Every Brisbane Driver Should Have

Navigating Brisbane's roads can be a challenge, from the daily commute and weekend traffic to finding a park in the city. But with a smartphone in your pocket, you have a powerful tool to make your driving life a whole lot easier.

Here are the essential apps every Brisbane driver should download:

1. For Navigation and Traffic: Waze & QLDTraffic

• Waze: The ultimate community-driven navigation app. Waze uses real-time reports from other drivers to give you the most up-to-date information on traffic, accidents, roadworks, and even police locations. It's a game-changer for avoiding unexpected delays and finding the fastest route.
• QLDTraffic: This is the official source of live traffic and travel information from the Queensland Government's Department of Transport and Main Roads. QLDTraffic provides alerts for crashes, hazards, road closures, and roadworks. You can even save your favourite routes and receive personalised push notifications, so you'll know about issues before you even leave home.

2. For Saving Money on Fuel: RACQ Fair Fuel Finder & Fuel Map Australia

• RACQ Fair Fuel Finder: With Brisbane's fuel prices constantly fluctuating, this app is a must-have. Backed by the Queensland Government's fuel price reporting system, it provides live data directly from service stations, helping you find the cheapest petrol near you. It also gives you advice on the best time to buy based on the Southeast Queensland price cycle.
• Fuel Map Australia: This app is a great companion for the RACQ app, especially for road trips. It uses a combination of government data and community updates to provide a comprehensive map of fuel prices across the country. It's a fantastic way to compare prices and ensure you're getting a good deal, no matter where you are.

3. For Parking: CellOPark & Wilson Parking App

• CellOPark: With the increasing use of mobile payment for street parking in Brisbane, CellOPark is an essential download. This app allows you to pay for your parking session from your phone, and you can easily extend or stop your session to avoid overpaying. Some premium features even remind you to end your session if you forget.
• Wilson Parking App: If you're heading into the city or a specific precinct, the Wilson Parking App can save you time and money. You can find and pre-pay for a parking spot, often with an online discount. No more circling for a park or waiting in line at the ticket machine!

4. For Toll Roads: Linkt

• Linkt: If you use any of Brisbane's toll roads like the Clem7, Airport Link, or Go Between Bridge, the Linkt app is the easiest way to manage your account. You can view your trip history, top up your balance, and track your monthly spend all from your phone.

5. For Learner Drivers: Queensland Learner Logbook

• QLD Learner Logbook: For those on their L-plates, the official Queensland Learner Logbook app is the modern way to record your 100 supervised driving hours. It makes tracking your progress simple and ensures you have a valid record when it's time for your test. It's a digital solution to the old paper logbook.

These apps won't just make driving in Brisbane less stressful; they'll also help you save time and money. So, before you hit the road, make sure your phone is loaded with these essential tools. Safe driving!