Not sure where to start when finding great travel deals, choosing trustworthy sites, or planning a trip without feeling overwhelmed? This post is for you. I’m sharing my favorite travel resources, along with a few things I’ve learned that could save you time and money. From booking flights to deciding what earns a spot in my suitcase, here’s what I use to make it all happen.
WHERE I BOOK HOTELS
Finding a hotel is usually the longest part of trip planning. I want a location that makes it easy to explore, a clean (bug-free), comfortable room to come back to, and strong reviews across the board. Lately, I’ve been trying to avoid Airbnb. I’ve had too many bad experiences in a row to keep supporting them.
I typically book hotels or bed and breakfasts through Booking.com or Hotels.com. They’re both third-party booking sites I trust: I’ve booked dozens of hotel stays through them and have never had an issue. If you create an account, you can start building status and get better discounts or free breakfast at the hotel.
→ BOOK WITH BOOKING.COM
→ BOOK WITH HOTELS.COM
WHERE I FIND FLIGHTS
I use Google Flights whenever I’m planning a trip. If my dates are flexible, I check the calendar to see which days have the cheapest fares. If the destination isn’t confirmed yet, I’ll search something broad like Chicago to Europe or Chicago to anywhere in the U.S. and see what catches my eye. Before getting excited about a price, I always check the layovers and airports. Some itineraries look like a great deal until you notice an overnight layover or a required airport change along the way.
When I have specific dates in mind, I search those flights, note the price, and check the “Cheapest time to book” dropdown to gauge whether the fare is reasonable. For example, I’m tracking a Madrid flight, and based on this price history below, it’s not a good time to book.
I also turn on email price tracking to be notified when it drops. I usually have a number in my head that I’m comfortable paying, based on the destination and what I’ve paid or seen in the past. I often see round-trip flights from Chicago to Europe priced around $900–$1,400 total for two people. This includes baggage fees and seat selection fees.
I try not to check the same flight too often because I still have that little worry that my searches are being tracked and the price will go up. I honestly don’t know if that’s how it works, but it’s hard to shake the habit.
Once I’m ready to book the flight, I reserve directly with the airline. I always find it’s best to book directly in case any issues come up; they’re more likely to work with you to help fix things.
WHERE I BOOK TOURS
I love exploring on my own, but I’ll book a tour when it helps me get more out of a place or makes a complicated day trip easier. I usually book city tours, unique activities, and experiences that would take a lot of planning to arrange myself. Sometimes, tour descriptions even give me ideas for what to do in a new city.
I browse Viator and GetYourGuide whenever I’m planning because they let me compare tours and experiences in one place. They are the two most popular tour sites travelers use. I love that many tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
→ BROWSE VIATOR TOURS
→ BROWSE GETYOURGUIDE
Flashback to one of my favorite tours
WHERE I BOOK CAR RENTALS
If you’re planning a scenic drive, visiting small towns, or trying to fit several places into one trip, a rental car gives you much more freedom.
DiscoverCars offers rentals in more than 160 countries, so it’s a good place to look whether you’re planning a road trip close to home or abroad. It also shows customer ratings for the rental companies, which helps me feel more confident about who I’m booking with.
Disclaimer: We get a great discount through my husband’s job and Avis. So whenever we can use that, we book directly through Avis. But if not, DiscoverCars is a good place to start.
HOW I STAY CONNECTED
Having mobile data as soon as we land abroad makes everything easier, whether we need directions, a rideshare, or a reservation confirmation. Nobody wants to spend their first hour searching for free wifi! Airalo has worked great for us, so I include it in my international travel guides. Before buying an eSIM, check that your phone supports it and is unlocked. It’s also worth checking whether your regular phone plan already covers your destination.
WHAT I ALWAYS PACK
I’m a light packer, and I know that luggage space is precious. If something comes on trip after trip, it’s because I actually use it. I’ve gathered my favorite travel essentials here so you can see what earns a spot in my bag, and maybe add it to yours!
From the things that keep my suitcase organized to the little items I’m glad to have once I arrive, these are my personal picks. I’m a planner, so I’m prepared for a lot of things, and you’ll notice that in this list.
These are the resources I reach for when I’m planning a trip. I hope they save you some time comparing options and help you find a few deals along the way. Happy travels!
TRANSPARENCY NOTE: This travel resources page contains affiliate links to booking sites and products I recommend. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you book or buy through my links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running—thank you for being a part of it!
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