Plan Smarter: My Favorite Travel Resources

These are tools I personally use and love. Some links are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thanks for supporting my blog and future adventures!

Looking for Flights?

Flight Search Engines

Google Flights

Google Flights offers a fast, powerful way to compare airline prices and track the best time to book. You can explore flexible date ranges, set price alerts, and discover great destinations based on your budget – all with a clean, user-friendly interface.

CheapOAir

CheapOAir is a great tool for finding affordable flight deals to destinations around the world. With frequent promotions and flexible search options, it’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to score the best prices on solo adventures or last-minute getaways.

Booking.com

Booking.com is one of my go to hotel search engines for hotels in Europe, Asia and the USA. I love their Genius discounts!

VRBO

VRBO is a great tool for places that you want to make feel like home. It’s an extensive home rental platform that I love.

What’s In My Bag?

Packing Recommendations

Bags

Wittchen Medium Sized Bag

Northface Sling

Bagallini Cross Body

Tech

Sony Alpha7II with 24-70mm lens

55-210mm Lens

DJI Mini 2 SE Drone

Gear

Hydroflask Refillable Water Bottle

New Balance

Hiking Poles

Plane Essentials

Beats Wireless Earphones

Any Kind of Book

Eye Mask

How to get around

Transportation Recommendations

Rentalcars.com

I use Rentalcars.com when I need the freedom to explore beyond train lines and bus routes—especially in rural or mountainous regions. Bonus: You can filter by automatic cars (a lifesaver in Europe!), insurance options, and pick-up locations near major train stations or airports.

Welcome Pickups

If you’re arriving in a new city and want to skip the stress of finding a reliable taxi, Welcome Pickups is my go-to. I’ve personally used it for smooth airport transfers where a friendly, local driver greets you at arrivals and helps you get settled. You can even book add-ons like SIM cards or local tours in advance. It’s especially great for solo travelers who value convenience and a warm welcome.

Renting a car lets me explore those quiet villages, scenic drives, and places you just can’t reach by train. If you want that kind of freedom, it’s worth it – trust me.

Rentalcars.com

Travel Planning FAQ

I use a combination of resources depending on the trip. For flights, I like Google Flights so that I can plan my trip. I also love Omio. 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.

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.