Tech Edge takes a look at today's top technology tools for salespeople. This time around, we check out the TripIt App.

What Is It?
TripIt is a travel organizing app that creates a master itinerary for every trip. It allows on-the-go salespeople and others to access their travel plans on any device with a Web browser. The app is compatible with iOS (including Apple Watch), Android (including Glass), BlackBerry and Windows Phone 7.

Features
TripIt neatly organizes your travel itinerary within the app. The basic version empowers users to add or edit plans manually, sync travel plans with their calendars, selectively share schedules and store travel documents in one place. You get more when you upgrade to TripIt Pro, including real-time flight alerts, fare refund notifications and reward program point tracking. With Pro, you’re also able to share plans with your inner circle automatically, find out when better seats are available and more.

Price Tag
The basic version of the app costs nothing. An ad-free version goes for $0.99 in the iTunes and Google Play stores. You can upgrade to TripIt Pro via the Web or in-app purchase for $49/year.

Why You’ll Like It
Let’s face it: You’re busy, and travel is stressful. This app provides a bit of balm to both those irritations by reducing the organizational hurdles involved in traveling and making it easier to stay on schedule. The harried traveler with Gmail, Yahoo or Outlook.com email accounts will especially appreciate that TripIt automatically imports all travel-related confirmation emails. If you don’t have such accounts, forwarding flight, hotel, car rental and other travel confirmation emails to plans@tripit.com gives TripIt what it needs to compile a comprehensive itinerary. You’ll also like that TripIt makes it simple to share your whole itinerary or specific travel plans with friends, family or colleagues.

Why You Won’t
The ads in the free version can get irksome. Critics say TripIt doesn’t work as well with international itineraries. Some see a security risk in allowing the application access to their email, while others complain the app doesn’t deliver all it promises. Still, a majority of online reviewers on Amazon and iTunes give TripIt positive ratings. TripIt’s Amazon rating is 3.9 stars out of 5, with 53% of reviews being five-star. The iTunes rating was 4.5 out of 5.

Our Advice
It’s free, so why not give it a spin on your next trip? The app helps keep you organized and less stressed, which sets the stage for a successful business trip or more enjoyable personal travel experience. If you don’t find TripIt useful, simply stop using the app; it costs you nothing. The basic version will work well for most business travelers. We’d suggest holding off on upgrading your account until you’re sure you need the additional features offered in Pro.