Must have apps

This is an obvious one but it is definitely the first app one should download and start exploring. This will become your ultimate tool to manage your time effectively while you are at SXSW 2014. With this app you can browse the lineup, create your personal schedule and login to sync it with your other devices. It also helps you find your way around Austin, navigate the trade show and stay connected to others attending.

AirBnB

If you snooze, you lose, this is especially the case when it comes to accommodation for SXSW. Most of the hotels in close proximity to the Convention Centre sell out almost immediately. This is where AirBnB will be your saving grace. I believe that this company is going to revolutionise the hospitality/hotel industry completely. If you don't believe me, try it for yourself.

It has an exceptionally slick and easy-to-navigate user experience, the best I have ever come across. With this app you will definitely find great accommodation for your stay during SXSW.

Clear

If you are like me, to-do lists are an integral part of life. There are hundreds of different "to-do" and "notes" apps available however, I find them either too simple or too complicated.

I have tried many but for me Clear is by far the best. It is very simple to use, has a great interface and it syncs seamlessly across all my devices. This way if I am on my iPhone, MacBook or iPad, I can always add or remove something on my list. The best feeling is the sound it makes when you tick items off the list, definitely some user psychology behind that.

TripIt

Once your entire itinerary has been finalised, it always helps having all this information in one place. TripIt does just this; you can include all your travel information, from your flights, car rental details, activities, notes and lots more.

Transit Times

When traveling abroad it is always a case of "how do I get to my accommodation?" Once you leave the airport and you can't always rely on your network provider, for example my roaming currently isn't working, so I have zero connectivity but that's where this app is great, it works offline. The only time you will need to connect is if you want to update the schedule.

These are my five apps that will definitely make your SXSW experience a great one, let me know what other apps you would recommend.

Watch this space for more updates from SXSW Interactive 2014:

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