Planning a trip? We’ve gathered our favorite travel resources and tips to help you plan smarter, travel more comfortably, and stay on budget – without sacrificing the experience. These are the practical tools and services we personally use to make every journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Disclosure: Our travel recommendations are based on our own experiences over the years. Some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of the links, we may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Please see our Disclaimer for additional information.
✨ Need Help Planning Your Trip?
Planning travel can be overwhelming – especially with new rules, logistics, and endless choices. If you’d like personalized help creating a smooth, stress-free itinerary, I offer custom trip planning services.
👉 Learn more about working with me or contact me here to get started!
✈️ Transportation Resources
From flights to ground transport, these tools make getting from A to B easier and often more affordable.
WayAway – flight comparison site that helps you find the cheapest airfare from hundreds of airlines – and you can earn cashback on bookings when you subscribe to WayAway Plus. Great for frequent travelers looking to save on every trip.
Expedia – A reliable online travel agency (OTA) where you can book flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages all in one place. Great for comparing options and bundling for extra savings.
Google Flights – A powerful flight search tool that helps you find cheap domestic and international flights with flexible filters and real-time pricing. Look for flights marked with the Price Guarantee badge – if the fare drops after you book, Google will refund the difference via Google Pay (up to $500 per year). This feature is available on select U.S.-originating flights booked through Google Flights.
Rail Europe – A convenient platform for booking train tickets across Europe, including high-speed, regional, and scenic routes. Ideal for planning multi-country trips or securing seats in advance – especially during peak travel seasons.
Rome2rio – A super handy tool for figuring out how to get from Point A to Point B anywhere in the world. It compares travel options like flights, trains, buses, ferries, and driving – all in one place – so you can plan the most efficient route. I always use it to check travel options, especially when we’re in Southern Italy navigating between smaller towns and regional transport.
✈️ Economy Class Survival Kit – My go-to essentials for staying comfortable, calm, and maybe even getting some sleep on long-haul flights. From noise-canceling earbuds to cozy leggings, these little comforts help make economy feel almost like first-class.
🛋️ Airport Lounge Access Programs
Relax before your flight with these programs that offer access to airport lounges around the world.
Priority Pass – We have this and use it whenever possible! Priority Pass gives you access to a global network of airport lounges, offering a quiet space to relax, enjoy complimentary food and drinks, connect to Wi-Fi, and recharge between flights. It truly makes travel days more comfortable and enjoyable.
🚗 Car Rental Resources
Compare rates, understand insurance options, and find tips to save money on car rentals.
DiscoverCars.com – An international car rental comparison site that lets you search, compare, and book rental cars in over 145 countries. It’s easy to filter by price, vehicle type, and rental company – perfect for finding the best deal wherever you’re headed.
🏨 Accommodation Resources & Tips
Discover our go-to hotel booking platforms, plus tips for choosing the best stay – whether it’s a boutique hotel or vacation rental.
Airbnb – economical alternative when more space is required. Do your research and read the reviews for selected properties. Communicate with the property contact before, during and after your stay. Establishing a relationship can make things go a lot smoother.
Booking.com – My go-to site for finding hotels around the world. This trusted online travel agency makes it easy to compare prices, read verified reviews, and book everything from boutique stays to major hotel chains. Many listings offer free cancellation, which is great for flexible travel plans.
Expedia – A well-known online travel agency where you can book hotels, cruises, flights, car rentals, and vacation packages. It’s a good place to look for bundled deals and special member pricing, especially if you’re planning a full itinerary.
Hotels.com – Another one of my go-to sites for booking hotels worldwide. It’s easy to search and compare properties, and the Loyalty Rewards Program lets you earn a free night after every 10 nights booked. A great option if you prefer to stick with one platform and rack up rewards.
Vrbo – A trusted platform for booking vacation rentals around the world, from cozy apartments to full homes. Similar to Airbnb, but focused exclusively on private stays (no shared spaces). Vrbo also offers a Loyalty Program, making it a great choice for families, groups, or longer getaways.
📶 Wi-Fi & Connectivity on the Go
Stay connected abroad with international SIMs, eSIMs, and portable Wi-Fi options.
Ryoko Pro – When traveling, the Ryoko Pro portable mobile Wi-Fi is an essential companion. Ready to use with a 500MB SIM pre-installed, it works in 112 countries, fits easily in your pocket or purse, and requires no contract. With a battery life of at least 8 hours and the ability to connect up to 10 devices, you can enjoy secure and protected internet access anywhere.
We used the Ryoko Pro on a one-month trip to Europe and found it indispensable, especially for using Google Maps. It fit perfectly in my crossbody bag and worked flawlessly wherever we went. Adding data online as needed was effortless, eliminating worries about connecting to public Wi-Fi or paying roaming charges. Staying connected was incredibly easy, and we highly recommend the Ryoko Pro for anyone traveling abroad.
Airalo – A popular eSIM provider that lets you buy digital SIM cards for 200+ countries and regions. No need to swap physical SIMs – just download the eSIM, activate it, and stay connected while you travel. Great for avoiding high roaming fees and staying online from the moment you land.
🧭 Tour & Activity Resources
Find trusted tour operators, skip-the-line tickets, and unique local experiences.
Get Your Guide – A go-to site for booking guided tours, skip-the-line tickets, and unique experiences around the world. Whether you’re looking for a cooking class in Italy, a day trip from Paris, or a walking tour in NYC, you’ll find tons of well-reviewed options to enhance your trip.
Go City – A great way to save on top attractions in major cities around the world. Choose between the All-Inclusive Pass (unlimited attractions for a set number of days) or the Explorer Pass (pick a set number of attractions to visit over 60 days). Passes are fully digital – just download to your phone and skip the paper tickets.
Gray Line Tours and Transportation – Looking for reliable airport transfers or professionally guided tours? I’ve personally used Gray Line for transportation, and their service was punctual, friendly, and stress-free – just what you need when arriving in a new destination. Whether you’re booking a shuttle, mini-van, private car, or an excursion, Gray Line offers a wide range of options in destinations around the world. They’ve been in business for over 100 years and are a trusted name in travel.
GuruWalk – Offers free walking tours led by local guides in cities across the globe. Tours usually last 2–3 hours and run on a tips-based system – so you pay what you think it’s worth. It’s a fun, budget-friendly way to explore a city, learn from a local, and meet fellow travelers along the way.
ResortPass – Enjoy Resort Amenities Without Booking a Room! Want a day of luxury without an overnight stay? ResortPass lets you book day access to pools, spas, and amenities at top hotels and resorts – perfect for a relaxing escape or adding a little indulgence to your travels.
Viator – My go-to site for booking sightseeing tours, city experiences, and day trips worldwide. Whether you’re planning a guided food tour, a museum visit, or a full-day excursion, Viator offers a huge variety of options with verified reviews and flexible cancellation on most bookings.
🛡️ Travel Insurance Resources
Learn why travel insurance is essential and how to choose the right plan for your trip.
VisitorsCoverage – Travel insurance is more important than ever, whether you’re going abroad or staying within the U.S. VisitorsCoverage offers a wide range of customizable plans, including medical coverage options for Europe and beyond. It’s a smart way to protect your trip – and your peace of mind.
InsureMyTrip – makes it easy to compare travel insurance plans from top providers, so you can find the right coverage for your trip. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive protection with trip cancellation, interruption, delay, and medical benefits, travel medical insurance for emergencies abroad, or specialized policies for cruises and student travel, InsureMyTrip has options to fit your needs.
If you have questions or need assistance, their licensed insurance agents are available to help you before, during, and after your trip.
👉 Get an InsureMyTrip quote and compare plans here
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🧳 Practical Travel Tools & Tips
Our favorite travel apps, gear, and planning tools that make travel easier and more enjoyable.
🌐 Enence Instant Two-Way Language Translator
Traveling somewhere new and don’t speak the language? This little device makes it simple. The Enence Instant Two-Way Language Translator lets you communicate in 60 different languages and works in just 1.5 seconds. Press the button, speak, and you’ll hear the translation almost instantly.
What I really love is that it doesn’t require Wi-Fi once you’ve downloaded the language packs – so you won’t have to worry about spotty internet or high data charges. With just two buttons, it’s easy to use and perfect for smooth conversations on the go.
I’ll be taking mine to Japan, and I know it’s going to come in handy!
👉 Order your Enence Instant Two-Way Language Translator Now!
📦 Packing Tips for Real-Life Travelers
Tried-and-true advice for packing light without sacrificing what you need – perfect for carry-on travelers. Learn how to pack like a pro!
How to Pack for a Two-Week Trip: Travel Light with Just a Carry-On & Personal Item!
Want to see what I actually pack when I travel? I’ve put together a Travel Light | Carry-On Essentials list on Benable with my favorite luggage, packing organizers, toiletries, tech gadgets, and even clothing and shoes. It’s everything I use to keep trips simple, organized, and stress-free.
🧳 See What’s on my Travel Light | Carry-On Essentials List!
🌍 New Travel Rules for Europe & the UK
Important changes that could affect your next trip, including visa waivers, ID updates, and more.
✅ UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – Effective January 8, 2025
Starting January 2025, visitors from the US, Canada, and other visa-free countries must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK. This digital travel permission, linked to your passport, costs £10 and is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. The ETA is required for everyone, including infants, and applications can be completed quickly via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK, with most approvals granted within hours.
✈️ EU Entry/Exit System (EES) – Effective October 12, 2025
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) officially launches on October 12, 2025. This new digital system replaces traditional passport stamps for non-EU travelers entering the 29 Schengen Area countries (including Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain).
When you arrive at a Schengen airport, seaport, or land crossing, you’ll use a self-service kiosk to:
- 🛂 Scan your passport (biographic data recorded)
- 📸 Provide a photograph
- ✋ Submit fingerprints
Your entry and exit dates will be logged digitally to ensure compliance with the 90 days in any 180-day period rule for short stays.
Key things to know:
- ✅ Applies to all non-EU nationals, including U.S. citizens
- ✅ Free to use – no pre-registration required
- ✅ Data stored for up to 3 years (5 if no exit recorded)
- ⏱️ Allow extra time at border control, especially in the early months
- ⚠️ Travelers who refuse to provide biometric data will be denied entry
💡 Tip: The EES is separate from ETIAS, which will be the electronic travel authorization you’ll need before departure (expected in 2026).
🛂 European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) – Likely 2026
Visitors to the Schengen Area’s 29 European countries will need ETIAS, a pre-travel authorization designed to enhance safety and streamline border processes. Valid for three years or until your passport expires, ETIAS costs €7 and can be applied for online before your trip, with approvals typically granted within hours. While ETIAS simplifies travel, entry remains at the discretion of border officers, so ensure you follow the 90-day rule and carry all required documentation. For more information on ETIAS requirements, learn more here.
🪪 What You Need to Know About the REAL ID
Deadline: REAL ID rules in the USA are in effect since May 7, 2025. You need a REAL ID or another accepted form of identification, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, to:
- Board domestic flights
- Enter federal facilities or military installations
🔍 How to Check If You Have a REAL ID
Look at your driver’s license or state ID card. If you see a gold star in the top-right corner, your ID is already REAL ID-compliant.
📝 How to Get a REAL ID
When applying for or renewing your driver’s license or state ID, you can request a REAL ID-compliant card. To do this:
1. Visit your state’s driver’s licensing agency website.
2. Review the list of required documents, such as proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.
3. Bring these documents with you to your appointment.
Your new ID will include the gold star marking at the top-right corner, confirming it meets REAL ID standards.