SnapTrail

SnapTrail is a Web3 travel-to-earn platform built on the Hedera blockchain that transforms real-world exploration into digital rewards. The platform allows users to capture and upload photos from different locations, where each image is automatically tagged with GPS data to verify authenticity. Once uploaded, the system stores the photo securely on decentralized storage using Lighthouse (IPFS) and mints a unique NFT on the Hedera Testnet as a proof-of-travel collectible. These NFTs serve as digital travel badges, representing each user’s journey and achievements on-chain. By connecting their Hedera wallet (such as HashPack), users can seamlessly interact with the platform, earn reward points or tokens for every verified upload, and view their NFT collection through a personalized dashboard. SnapTrail combines the thrill of travel with blockchain technology, creating a transparent and immutable record of exploration while promoting sustainability through Hedera’s eco-friendly network. In future versions, the platform plans to integrate PayPal USD for redeemable real-world rewards and Avail or Envio for scalable data indexing and analytics, turning travel experiences into a decentralized, gamified, and rewarding digital adventure.

🧩 Tech Stack Component Tool / Platform Purpose Blockchain Hedera Testnet NFT minting & rewards Smart Contracts Solidity + Hardhat NFT logic Frontend React + TailwindCSS User interface Storage Lighthouse (IPFS) Photo storage Wallet HashPack Wallet User login & transactions Optional Later PayPal USD / Avail / Pyth Real-world reward or data layer 🏗️ High-Level Architecture

Frontend (React App)

User uploads photo → system reads GPS → sends data to backend or smart contract.

Lighthouse Storage

Stores photo → returns IPFS CID (hash).

Smart Contract (Hedera)

Mints NFT containing CID + GPS metadata.

Frontend Dashboard

Displays user’s NFTs + reward points.

🌟 Innovation

Turns real-world travel into digital, verifiable achievements.

Bridges Web2 experiences (travel, photos) with Web3 ownership (NFTs).

Supports eco-friendly blockchain (Hedera is carbon-negative).

Potential for sponsors (like airlines, travel brands) to reward real explorers.