travel Resources

My Favorite tools that I use to plan trips

Planning your next adventure? This curated list of travel resources is here to simplify your journey. From finding the best tours and experiences with Viator and Walks Tours to booking accommodations on Booking.com or securing hassle-free transport through Omio, these are my go-to tools for seamless travel planning. Explore, book, and enjoy your trips with confidence!

While you are here, don’t forget to head on over to my Recommended Accommodations & Experiences to see all my recs for tours and hotels!

Flights

Flights, rental cars and train tickets around the world. I have had major success with this database and I highly recommend using it!

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Hotels and Accomodations

Ever since I have lived here in Europe this is the one database I trust for finding hotels and accommodations. This is the one place I have the best success rate with!

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Italy and Select Walking Tours

Omio is one of my favorite ways to find flights as their database can search thousands of routes.

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For all the best Tours

Viator happens to be one of my favorite databases to find tours all over the world. They have such a great selection!

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Travel Planning FAQ

I use a combination of resources depending on the trip. For flights, I like Google Flights and Skyscanner. Accommodation searches often start with Booking.com or Airbnb. For trains in Europe, Trainline or Rail Europe is my go-to. I also check tourism boards and blogs for local insights and itineraries, including my own resources at www.kimberlykepharttravels.com.

I consider factors like location, reviews, and sustainability practices. Staying near public transport or major attractions saves time, and I always read recent reviews for cleanliness and service. Look for properties with eco-certifications if sustainable travel is important to you.

This depends on the destination and time of year. For popular destinations or high seasons (like Christmas markets or summer in Europe), book flights and accommodations 3–6 months in advance. Flexible travel? You can wait for last-minute deals but still research your options early.

Set a daily spending limit and prioritize what’s important—whether that’s luxury accommodations, dining out, or activities. Use budgeting apps like Trail Wallet to track expenses, and look for free or low-cost activities like walking tours. Booking in advance can also help lock in lower prices.

Travel insurance is essential for unexpected events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Look for policies that cover your specific needs—whether that’s adventure activities, international healthcare, or COVID-19 coverage. Popular providers include World Nomads, Allianz, and SafetyWing.

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel dates. Check visa requirements for your destination, and research health guidelines, such as vaccinations. Download maps, save important documents offline, and notify your bank about international travel to avoid card issues.

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