As someone who has travelled extensively for over 15 years, to over 50 countries, I’ve learned the value of top travel resources.
Since I mainly travel on a budget, I’ve always used these resources to find the best deals on flights, hotels, tours and more to make sure I get the most value from my trips.
These are the resources I personally use and I would never recommend you something unless I believe it will genuinely enhance your travel experience.
The Best Travel Accessories
Osprey Farpoint Backpack – Often known as the best backpack for travellers, this has been my travel companion for the best part of over 10 years. I normally travel with a 55L but the 40L is the most popular. The newest range is now all carry-on compliant with most major airlines! They have a Fairview range designed specifically for women and have some of the best daypacks too.
Thermarest Pillow – I was completely hooked the first time I used a Thermarest product! I never self-inflatables could be packed down into such a small package. Whether it’s on a plane, hostel or on an overnight bus in SE Asia, these pillows will add some extra cosiness to your little adventure.
LifeStraw Water Bottle – This is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. The 2-stage filtering system in LifeStraw bottles and straws means you don’t have to worry about getting sick when you drink the local tap water on your travels. It also means you don’t have to rely on buying bottled water.
Anker Power Bank – One of the most useful items I have in my backpack. You won’t see a traveller without one these days as our smartphones and gadgets seem to be a staple in our carry-ons. Anker makes some great ones with the 20,000mAh pack giving the most bang for your buck.
Best Travel Resources – Cheap Flights, Hotels, Tours and Rental Cars
Skyscanner – I’ve always used Skyscanner to book my flights. It scans all the major travel agencies and airlines to find the best deals. If you’re flexible, use the ‘whole month’ or ‘everywhere’ options for even lower prices!
Expedia – Expedia is a great resource if you’re looking for a one-stop for all the best deals. Not only do they have great deals on hotels but you’ll find flights and car rental comparisons there too.
Booking.com – My favourite hotel booking resource. Not only do they have the best deals on accommodation, but they reward loyalty with a Genius membership that can lead to special member rates, free breakfasts and even room upgrades.
Hotels.com – Similar to Booking.com, I always double-check to see if Hotels.com has a better deal on certain hotels (which it does quite often.) The best thing about Hotels.com is that you get a free stay after 10 nights of bookings!
Airbnb – We’re all familiar with Airbnb. But what you might now know is the number of unique stays that are now appearing on the platform as well as experiences (usually led by locals in the area.)
Viator – The no.1 site for tours in any country. Use Viator to find the best deals on tours, tickets and experiences.
GetYourGuide – Another site for tours similar to Viator but there are some wonderful off-the-beaten-track tours you won’t find anywhere else at GetYourGuide.
Discover Cars – This car rental search engine has some of the lowest prices and is one that I use regularly. Their search results are often the ones you find on other comparison sites such as Skyscanner and Expedia to name a few!
12Go – Travelling to Southeast Asia? 12Go has everything you need with trains, buses and even ferries to get you around at the click of a button.
Uber – People forget that you can use Uber in many locations and it’s safe and you get reliable prices which is useful when you’re in a country where the local taxi drivers are known to give the ‘tourist price’.
Grab – Grab is Uber for Southeast Asia. The fares are usually lower than Uber (if it’s even available.) I always check both for the best fare.
SafetyWing – This insurance company offers low-cost policies and is an excellent choice for budget travellers and digital nomads.