Planning a trip can be overwhelming, and it doesn’t help that there are endless companies offering travel services and products. It can be hard knowing which one to trust. I’m an over-planner myself; I spend way too much time researching to make sure I get the best service and deals.
After years of travel, I’ve refined my choices through trial and error. Below, you’ll find my top travel resource recommendations.
Flights
Onward Ticket. Proof of onward travel is often a requirement when entering a new country. If your departure date is uncertain, use Onward Ticket to generate a temporary ticket.
Accommodations
Booking.com. This is my go-to platform since it consistently gives me competitive prices and additional discounts based on usage. It can be used for hotels as well as hostels.
Hostelworld. A great place to search for hostels. Hostelword sometimes shows properties that are not listed on other platforms.
Transportation
BusBud. This is a great platform to search for bus routes in over 80 countries and buy tickets online.
GetTransfer. Pre-book your airport transfer for stress-free travel.
Travel Insurance
Regardless of your budget, travel insurance is a non-negotiable necessity. Accidents and illness are common amongst travelers, and you don’t want to be stuck with a huge bill.
SafetyWing. The most affordable travel insurance I’ve found that also offers excellent coverage.
World Nomads. Provides very comprehensive coverage, including protection for belongings that are lost or stolen.
Tours
Organized tours are a great option if you’re on a tight schedule, don’t want to navigate the logistics of public transportation, or are not comfortable speaking the local language.
Viator. Offers extensive options for both day trips and multi-day excursions.
Get Your Guide. Explore a wide variety of tours, with an emphasis on unique and sustainable experiences.
Gear
The right gear will ensure your comfort and safety. Here are some of my favorites.
LifeStraw. This easy-to-use water filter guarantees that you always have access to clean drinking water.
Travel Accessories. The right accessories will make life on the road much more convenient.
SIM Cards
Purchase an eSIM card before leaving on your travels so that you’re instantly connected from the moment you arrive at your destination.
Airalo. Offers affordable eSIM cards.
Finances
I personally built my travel fund by living a budget lifestyle and growing my savings through investing. I also use the right credit and debit cards to get the most out of my travel expenses.
Chase Sapphire Card. This card is very popular amongst travelers, including myself. It rewards you with substantial points for travel-related expenses and a very generous bonus when opening an account.
Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor, and this information reflects my opinions. It is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as personal investment advice. Conduct your own research and seek professional advice when necessary.
Work and Volunteering
Worldpackers. This work exchange platform lets you search for volunteer opportunities globally. The strong community support makes it great for beginners.
Workaway. This platform gives you access to a huge number of paid and volunteer opportunities worldwide.
Thanks for reading and I hope these travel resources are helpful! To learn more about how to prepare and budget for your travels, head to my Travel Tips Page.
If you buy through links on this site, I may earn an affiliate commission. I only recommend products that I love and use myself or have thoroughly researched. Feel free to contact me with any questions. Thanks for supporting me in creating free content for you to enjoy!
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Hi, I’m Kristina! I’m a solo female traveler sharing my personal experiences around the world. Authentic travel is important to me; in my destination guides I emphasize not just the most spectacular sights but also the local stories and history.
Other things I’m passionate about are discovering hidden gems, budget-friendly travel, and hiking and backpacking. My goal is to show you how to seek adventurous experiences for yourself!