Hello there! Looking for some helpful travel resources? Below is a curated list of some of my favorite websites, tools, and gear. From looking for flights to knowing what to pack with you, it’s all here!
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Cheap Flights
Skyscanner – These days, flights can be so dang expensive! Skyscanner works by scouring the internet and finding all the good travel deals. You know what’s even better? If you’re flexible with where you want to go, you can type “Everywhere” into the search box and Skyscanner will give you a list of all the cheapest places you can fly to.
Google Flights – Also a great one. Since we all know that Google knows everything (duh), it makes sense why their flight software would also have some of the best deals. Try using Google Flights in comparison to Skyscanner and see which one comes out cheaper. Pro tip: try looking for one-way flights. Sometimes they’re cheaper that way.
Accommodations
Hostelworld – We are no longer living in the days where “hostel” = YUCK! Hostelworld is great if you’re on a budget but still want to stay somewhere nice. Their site lets you filter by price, location, and even overall rating.
Booking.com – Want to book a place to stay but not sure if you want a B&B, hotel, hostel, or something else entirely? Booking.com has any and everything. All you have to do is put in your destination, travel dates, and voila!
Airbnb – Want more of a local feel for your destination? Airbnb is a great way to do that. You’ll get to stay in the homes of people who live in your destination (ps they often have the BEST tips for food and things to see). Airbnb has also upped its game. They now offer “Experiences.” Think of these like tours and events run by locals. Click here to get up to $40 off your first stay and $10 towards an Airbnb Experience.
Travel Insurance
World Nomads – Travel insurance is a must when you’re traveling abroad. It covers you for anything that could go awry while you’re off seeing the world: emergency medical needs, lost baggage, delayed flights…you name it.
Must-Have Travel Gear
Money Belt with RFID Protection – Every traveler, whether your solo or not, needs one of these! It’s basically a secret pouch that you wear under your clothes to store credit cards, money, your passport, anything. Best part? You get to feel safe and protected…and like a spy…lol.
Personal Safety Alarm on Keyring – My sweet coworker gave me one of these before I left for my solo adventure. While I never personally had to use it on any of my travels, this little guy gave me HUGE confidence. This keychain acts as an alarm system. Someone getting too close or freaking you out? Pull the little pin and it makes a screeching noise, giving you time to get away.
TSA Approved Locks – These locks may be small, but they’re durable. They’re really good for securing your bags when you put them onto the plane. Since they’re TSA approved, they won’t get cut off during inspection. These locks also help secure your locker or safe when staying at a hostel, hotel, or Airbnb.
Packing Cubes – Can I just say…Travel. Saver. Ever wonder how these travelers manage to pack a lot in just one little backpack or suitcase? Packing cubes. They come in various sizes and shapes. Use them to organize your clothes and easily pack your bags efficiently.
Reusable Water Bottle – Having a reusable water bottle is good for two main reasons: it saves the environment AND it saves you money. Not only will you decrease your footprint as a traveler, you’ll be able to save tons of money by simply refilling your bottle instead of buying new ones every day.
Collapsable Reusable Water Bottle – Want something a little more compact? This water bottle is wonderful! When you fill it up, it’s a full standing water bottle. After you finish drinking all the water, it squashes down into a tiny little disk that easily fits into your day bag and even purse. It does get a little wonky when the bottle is only half full (speaking from spillage experience here haha), but it gets the job done.
Kindle eReader – An eReader gives you the flexibility to have tons of books while you travel, but only have one physical device. I personally am a fan of real, in-your-hands books…but when I’m traveling, I like options. Not big into books? Getting an eReader is also a great way to rent travel guides and books from the library (um yes please).
Universal Converter – If you’re traveling internationally, you will most likely need one of these. Each country uses slightly different plugs. This converter allows you to plug your devices into it, and then you can plug the entire converter into the wall. It protects your devices from exploding basically and also ensures you have the right number of prongs to fit into the wall socket.
Itch Relief Stick – These should really be higher on the list. Not gonna lie…I bought like 5 of these before traveling to Asia and Central America. Mosquito bites are a real thing. And if you’re anything like me, mosquitoes LOVE you. Pack a few of these sticks and you’ll feel instantly relieved…or at least less miserable! They’re also really small so you can fit them anywhere.
Travel Journal – It’s always nice to have a way to capture your thoughts and memories while traveling. Grab a journal before you leave and you can use it in lots of different ways: as a traditional journal, a scrapbook, a way to keep track of your budget…the options are endless. All I have to say is…every time I chose not to bring one with me, I often looked back and wish I had.