Stephanie Yoder's Blog
October 1, 2021
The Best Travel Apps in 2021 To Help You Travel Better
By ALEX ESPINO With the world opening up in 2021, many people are getting some serious wanderlust and feeling excited about traveling again. If you are ready to hit the road or fly off to an exotic location, download these incredible travel apps that will save you time, money and eliminate stress.
HopperFinding cheaper flights is simple with Hopper, especially if you can be flexible with your dates. To score the most affordable airfare possible, all you need to do is enter your city’s name and let the app know where you want to go. Then, Hopper will generate a calendar of projected flight prices for the following year.
It’s color-coded, with green being the cheapest and red being more expensive. You can also set up alerts that tell you if the price increases. The price predictor feature predicts if and when airfare will change, making Hopper an excellent app for traveling on a budget.
KiwiKiwi is another great option for booking flights, but this app does so much more than just get you onto a plane. It’s almost like having a concierge right on your phone. You can book your flight, hotel and rent a car right in one place. It even lets you know what tours are available around you.
Kiwi can tell you where airport lounges and ATMs are or even find you a place to store your luggage over long layovers. It also acts as a travel agent, giving you suggestions for longer trips and flights throughout some areas of the world.
CitymapperCitymapper is a lifesaver if you’re traveling in a part of the world that you are not familiar with. This app helps you get to your hotel, major attractions, and other destinations with easy-to-follow instructions for finding public transportation. In addition, you’ll get bus and train schedules in real-time, with constant updates if there are any delays.
You can also use Citymapper’s chat to let your family and friends know where you’re traveling. This feature can give you a tremendous sense of safety while on the road.
DayuseHave you ever needed to book a hotel room for just a few hours to get through a long layover or have a work call? Dayuse is an excellent app for people who need hotel rooms and amenities for a short period and don’t want to pay full-day rates.
This app can get you discounts for up to 75 percent off the cost of the typical hotel rate. Plus, it’s got a worldwide reach, with over 23 countries participating. You can cancel right up to the last minute too. If you don’t want to spend exorbitant rates on hotels, Dayuse can save you a lot of money.
ExpediaExpedia is one of the original travel apps, and it’s stood the test of time for two good reasons; it’s easy to use and highly effective. Expedia covers all of your booking needs, including rental cars, flights, hotels, and even excursions. You can even check the prices for specialty travel, like cruises.
Expedia also partners with plenty of travel-related places, like hotels and rental companies, offering their users deals. Sign up for their rewards program to take advantage of them.
Flightradar24Flight delays are the bane of any traveler, and with Flightradar24, you can stay apprised of any potential delays or issues before they become a more significant problem. Flightradar24 keeps track of delays and cancellations but also lets you know if your gate changes.
Although the airline will generally notify you about gate changes through email or text alerts, Flightradar24 gives you access to everything you need in real-time in one spot. As a result, it can seriously minimize stress at the airport and is one of the best travel apps to have on your phone, especially if you’re dealing with short layovers.
RebtelRebtel is an excellent option for people who don’t want to use their long-distance plan to call friends and family back home. It allows you to plug into the phone lines and make calls to up to 50 countries. Rebtel saves you the trouble of getting a local SIM card too, which can be a hassle in certain places.
With this app on your phone, you can keep your SIM card from back home and simply make calls as you need to. You also don’t need to switch SIMs if you change countries multiple times during a trip.
PiperKnowing how much to tip when you’re traveling can be tricky. In certain parts of the world, it’s even considered rude to overtip. Piper is an excellent app for travel because it lets you see how much you should be tipping at a glimpse. Furthermore, it works offline.
Piper’s database includes 84 countries and has customized information about how much to tip in different circumstances. For example, the app will let you know how much you should reasonably tip at restaurants for cab fare and for beauty treatments.
LoungeBuddyLoungeBuddy allows you to find and use airport lounges in all corners of the world. While many airport lounges are usually reserved only for people flying on certain airlines or in business class, some offer access to all. You can also purchase single passes to the airport lounge of your choice.
Buy the lounge pass when you arrive at the airport, or pick it up through the app up to two months in advance.
GasBuddyWhile LoungeBuddy helps you be as comfortable as possible while you’re traveling by air, GasBuddy helps you on the ground. This mobile app finds inexpensive gas stations around you simply by using your GPS location. You can also search by city or zip code.
GasBuddy uses information provided by its users to calculate the least expensive gas prices. People log in and update the information regularly. As a reward, GasBuddy gives away free gas and other prizes to participants. This incentive assures that information is being regularly updated and is accurate.
RV Parks and CampgroundsThis app is excellent for people who love to hit the open road. If you and your family want to see some of the best RV Parks and Campgrounds in North America, download this app on your phone. It comes with 40,000 different locations, including what each park and campground offers, as well as rest stops.
The app has a lot of different options, both private and public campgrounds and parks. You can see what the extra costs are and make a reasonable assessment as to where to go.
AirbnbAny traveler should have Airbnb downloaded on their phone. It is easily the best travel app for finding budget-friendly, local accommodations all over the world. Airbnb is simple to use, and you can search through the listings to find Superhosts in desirable neighborhoods.
You can book your accommodations securely right through the app itself, as well as see a list of all the places that you had previously visited. In addition, both hosts and guests can leave each other reviews. This feature keeps both parties honest and allows new guests to access verified information about where they’re going.
TripAdvisorLike Expedia, TripAdvisor is another legacy app that lets you get detailed information on restaurants, activities, and hotels all over the world. Each property and destination comes with pictures and a detailed description of what you can reasonably expect. Additionally, there are customer reviews for every listing.
At a glance, you can look at check-in hours, busy times, and special features or menu items. There’s even a “Near Me Now” feature that lets you see what’s close by at any given time. It’s a must-have for any traveler.
PackPointPacking is often one of the most stressful aspects of traveling. PackPoint alleviates a lot of stress by letting you know what you need to take before you hit the road. Then, all you need to do is plug in information about where you’re going and what you plan to do while you are there. The app does the rest.
It analyzes your data and lets you know the must-have things to bring on your trip. You can even share your packing list with other people to help them prepare for their vacations.
LolaLola is the brainchild of Kayak founder Paul English. Essentially, it acts as a digital concierge, helping you plan every aspect of your trip and texting you in real-time. Lola’s concierge is open all day, every day, to assist you with finding flights or hotels.
One of the key things that makes Lola so effective is that it can help you make last-minute changes if emergencies crop up. For example, if you miss your connecting flight, Lola can give you suggestions for a new one based on what you need. It’s like having a personal assistant right in your pocket.
MyTSAMyTSA is one of the most helpful travel apps on our list. It’s explicitly designed to let you know how long you should expect to wait to get through security checkpoints at any given airport. The MyTSA information is updated in real-time, so there’s no guesswork involved.
MyTSA gives you total peace of mind and allows you to prepare for your travels properly. If you stress out about getting blindsided by lengthy security lines, this is undoubtedly the app for you.
HEHA! Holiday ExtrasHEHA! Holiday Extras focuses on all of the little things you might have overlooked when booking your vacation. This clever app instantly compares lounges, transfers, and parking pricing to customize a package specifically for you. Like many of the other travel apps on our list, it’s totally intuitive and considers your travel history and preferences.
The objective of HEHA! Holiday Extras is to make your travel as smooth as possible and address any little details that you might have forgotten. You can even set up preferences in their “Watch” tab to keep track of incidentals in any location on the planet. HEHA! Holiday Extras will filter through the options and give you a personalized plan.
Google MapsThe Google Maps app takes the best of online Google Maps and adds an offline spin. Although you can use this app with WiFi, you can also download maps to see when you don’t have access to the internet. This is an outstanding feature because it lets you know where you’re going even if you don’t have WiFi.
Download entire city maps and mark places of interest on them. You can save these maps and even share them with others if you want. At a glance, you can check out your trip itinerary and plan out your days based upon how close certain things are to each other. It’s a true lifesaver for those traveling in new cities.
TunnelBearTunnelBear lets you connect to public WiFi safely through a VPN or virtual private network. Since public WiFi can have serious security flaws, TunnelBear is an excellent way to keep your peace of mind while you’re connecting to strange networks on the road. Like any great VPN, TunnelBear encrypts your data and shields you from nefarious hackers.
It also gives you free data. The basic TunnelBear monthly plan has 500MB of data, and you can get unlimited data for roughly $4 a month. When you consider traditional international data plans, TunnelBear is a steal.
SkyscannerSkyscanner is another flight-search giant that’s been around for at least several years. Now that they’ve launched their Skyscanner app, you can check out amazing deals right from the comfort of your phone. One of the benefits of Skyscanner is that it allows you to tap into several different filtering options, including the length of your flight, how many layovers you have, and price.
Like Hopper, the Skyscanner app comes with color-coded calendar features so you can see when flights are the cheapest. Set up price alerts on your phone to ensure that your chosen flight isn’t fluctuating too much, or look at their “Top Offers” section to peruse cheap flights from lesser-known airlines.
WazeWaze is a must-download app for those who are hitting the open road. It lets you know where there is congestion, so you can divert your route if need be. Waze also gives you best-route suggestions and comes with voice navigation.
Waze relies on real-time data from its users, ensuring that the information you get is always as fresh as possible. This allows you to change your route quickly in case of an accident and helps you get where you need to go quicker and safer.
Culture TripCulture Trip is an excellent app to download if you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems. It functions in two ways; as a travel planning app and a place where you can get great ideas about what your new city or town has to offer you.
One thing that sets Culture Trip apart is the fact that it uses multiple different kinds of media. You can watch videos, access personalized stories, or even see complete city guides. Culture Trip’s information comes directly from local sources and is constantly being updated.
ZomatoTraveling foodies rejoice! Zomato is here to help you find the best restaurants in your destination. This app combines restaurant reviews, menus, a map function, and even collections of dining experiences all in one spot. You can tell the app what kind of food you want to try, and it will calibrate the best options possible.
Then, users can create a map of all of their preferred dining options. This map allows vacationers and travelers to maximize their time by scheduling recreational activities near the restaurants that they want to try.
Google TranslateGoogle Translate is one of the essential apps for any traveler. You use it via text or voice. Simply type or speak into the translate box, and it will convert your words to the local language in a matter of seconds. Google Translate is vital for getting around new cities, communicating dietary needs, or even making new friends while traveling abroad.
It can also translate pictures. If there’s a menu written in a language that you don’t understand, simply point Google Translate’s camera at it, and you’ll find that it’s instantly readable. The same goes for street signs. If you only download one app from our list, make it this one.
XE Currency ConverterIt can be difficult to keep different kinds of currencies straight, especially if you’re traveling to multiple countries. That’s where XE Currency Converter comes in. This converter is able to give you real-time information about your current exchange rate. Not only will it help you to understand how much you’re paying for any given item, but you will also be able to figure out how much to withdraw from the ATM.
XE Currency Converter also allows you to track and save different currencies. So download it before you go, and save up to 20 foreign currencies.
EatwithEatwith is another fantastic app that allows you to have an entirely local experience. The entire point of this app is to foster communication and camaraderie with local people from all over the planet. Local people cook different dishes at their homes, and for a minimal fee, you can dine with them.
You can browse menus through the app and see the price of the meal plus what unique pairings might come with it. For example, some hosts include wine or alcohol with their meals. Others are much more rudimentary. The key perk is that you’ll be able to eat authentically local food at a much lower price than you would typically pay at a restaurant and maybe make a new friend in the process.
HostelworldHostels aren’t just for 20-something backpackers anymore. These days, there are tons of different hostels to suit all tastes and budgets, and you can find them all on the Hostelworld app. This app encompasses 179 countries and offers 17,000 different properties, including hostels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels.
It also lets you know where there are regular meetups. This feature is fantastic for people traveling on their own or those who want to make friends on the road. As with Airbnb and TripAdvisor, Hostelworld has a user review section where people rate the hostels and give honest feedback about their experiences.
You can filter by price or rating, and you can see where your chosen hostel is on a map. Even if you never thought you’d find yourself in a hostel, this app is well worth downloading because you could come across some surprising options.
WeatherBugIf there’s one thing that can seriously derail your travel plans, it’s lousy weather. In order to be prepared and have the most comfortable time possible, you’ll want to have up-to-date information about the weather in your chosen destination. That’s where the WeatherBug app comes in.
WeatherBug has accurate, detailed weather forecasts for just about everywhere on the planet, and they update them hourly. You can look at day-to-day weather or get a ten-day forecast. WeatherBug has very detailed maps that let you know how humid you can expect the day to be, how windy it is if there are any major weather events on the horizon, and of course, when it is forecasted to start storming.
Never get caught in weather that you didn’t anticipate ever again. WeatherBug can prepare you for just about anything and keep you comfortable for your entire trip.
Before You GoNow that the world is opening up again, it’s time to set our sights on traveling. Whether you’re staying closer to home, hitting the open road, or exploring a brand new culture or country, these travel apps can help guide your way and make your trip all the more pleasant and productive.
You’ll spend less time researching flights and hotels, trying to find that perfect restaurant, or wondering just how far your dollar goes. Instead, you’ll be able to maximize every second of your vacation!
The Best Travel Gear for 2021
By ALEX ESPINO Travelling gear is an essential part of any good trip, but some travel gear is clearly better than the rest. Here are some of the best things to get, whether you’re heading out camping for a weekend or planning a months-long tour around the world.
How We Selected ItemsWe selected the best travelling gear based on several factors, including their overall quality, the reputation of manufacturers, and how important they are for travelling. This is a guide to high-quality gear, so the cost was not a factor unless we felt a product was overpriced for its value.
Also, this guide doesn’t cover most clothes or other personal items. This is not a checklist of things to bring while travelling but rather a selection of reviews and information on helpful travelling gear.
Part One: Luggage and StorageThis isn’t as important for short trips, but getting the correct storage options makes a huge difference for longer journeys. The main principle here is to make sure you can bring anything you buy with you. You can get the best luggage in the world, but if it’s too big for the plane, you have a problem.
#1: Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable LuggageSamsonite is one of the most well-known brands in luggage, and deservedly so. Their Omni PC luggage is available in three sizes (a 20-inch carry-on and 24/28-inch checked versions) and stands out as a particularly durable option ideal for longer trips.
Samsung offers a 10-year limited warranty on this product, while the exterior polycarbonate texture is durable and scratch-resistant. Side-mounted locks provide added security, while the expandable interior compartment provides a lot of added space if you need it.
Luggage is an interesting area because there isn’t much diversity in the products themselves. Luggage is, fundamentally, a rectangular box on wheels designed to hold as much as possible while you’re travelling. The real difference is in the luggage, like the high-quality wheels that can hold up under regular use.
This luggage is also surprisingly light for its size, which will help maintain your stamina if you’re taking it on longer trips.
#2: BAGSMART Toiletry Travel BagOne crushed bottle of shampoo is enough to make it clear why toiletry bags are so helpful. This particular bag is a full-sized container that unfolds into four compartments for rapid organization of all products. Various zippered compartments help keep things in place, and you can fit about five days’ worth of supplies without running low.
Transparent insides provide an easy look at where everything is, while the water-resistant exterior will hold up under rain or steam-filled bathrooms. The heavy-duty material ensures you can carry almost everything you fit in, too.
This bag also comes with a heavy-duty hanging strap. Toiletry bags are often considered more feminine, but this product is comfortably user-neutral thanks to an array of different colors that can match luggage or personal preference.
Every inch of storage matters when you’re travelling, so this bag’s ability to maximize usable space makes it a top choice for practically any trip.
#3: YAMIU Packing CubesPacking cubes are a relatively recent choice for many travelers, essentially acting as miniature compartments inside of standard luggage. This particular kit comes with a TSA clear bag for holding liquids like shampoo, an extra toiletry bag, a shoe bag, two small cubes, a medium cube, and a large cube.
The two plastic bags here are especially helpful because they’re waterproof and hold up well if you’re transporting sweaty or wet things. That happens a lot if you’re travelling in warmer areas, and isolating both the moisture and the smell from everything else is a real boon.
The storage cubes themselves have a water-resistant and durable fabric, with a mesh grid on one side so you can find things without having to open each bag. They’re available in several colors, though we recommend getting something that contrasts with the inside of your luggage.
#4: YOREPEK Extra Large BackpackLuggage is the main storage option for travel, but it’s also good to have a backpack for carrying things around during the day. For that role, YOREPEK’s extra-large bag has many advantages that most competitors don’t.
This is a multipurpose, TSA-friendly bag with an option for opening up to pass through airport security faster. It can fit one 17-inch or smaller laptop (or a bit bigger, if you get the larger bag), while the rest of the interior is spacious enough to hold clothes, food, and other travel supplies.
YOREPEK’s backpack is particularly helpful for tech-inclined travelers because it has both an earphone hole and a USB charging port for charging devices. This lets you keep several items in the safety of the bag without sacrificing your ability to use them.
The handle is unusually durable, consisting of a steel cable instead of weaker fabric or leather. Meanwhile, an airflow mesh provides ventilation and can help keep you cooler if you’re travelling in warm regions. If you’re going somewhere cold, you could realistically fit some heating pads inside and enjoy those to the fullest.
This is a great bag overall, but it is better for larger buyers. Petite travelers may want to look for a comparable smaller bag.
#5: GONGSHI Vacuum Storage BagsSpace is everything when you’re travelling and few things are more of a game-changer than using vacuum storage bags for your clothes. This 12-piece set from GONGSHI comes with four sizes of bags for even more added flexibility. They’re not necessary if you’re only bringing a few clothes, but the more you add, the more helpful these become.
Vacuum storage bags are also helpful if you want to bring a blanket, pillow, or sleeping bag on your trip. These types of items usually need some time to reinflate if you store them for a long time, but if they’re only vacuumed for a few days, they should retain their familiar comfort once you unpack them.
The bags themselves have a double-zipper seal for added strength, including a slider that helps ensure all areas get equal pressure. The air-seal is a three-layer version, while the bag itself uses a two-layer composite for durability.
It’s hard to overstate the value of these for long trips. Clothes are the bulkiest item that many people bring when travelling, so the ability to compact them down can give you several inches of additional space in your luggage. That’s enough for several new luxury items.
#6: PASCACOO Passport HolderOrganization is vital if you’re travelling internationally, and few things are more important than your passport. This leather carrying case is RFID-blocking, so it can stop people from scanning some types of information that would otherwise be available.
This security isn’t necessary for most places, but it’s nice to have. The real value of this holder is the rest of its storage, including spaces for various cards, proof of vaccinations, plane tickets, money, and even SIM cards for your devices.
The elastic band is a nice touch, too. It’s not overly grippy by itself, but it’s easy to lock the band to other things and reduce the risk of theft. That’s the feature that sets this holder apart from many of its competitors, especially if you lock it in a way that stops others from opening it.
The holder itself uses leather for general durability. You’ll need to care for the leather if you expect to use it regularly, but even without that, it should last quite a long time.
PASCACOO’s passport holder comes with a bonus pin for opening SIM slots on devices, too. That’s a tool people usually forget when travelling, and it’s often a pain to find one otherwise.
Part Two: TechnologyTechnology is the heart of modern travel, so these items have moved from luxury extras to must-haves for many people.
#7: Pxwaxpy 36800mAh Portable ChargerComplicated brand name aside, this is a top choice for travelling with technology. This unit comes with three USB-C ports for high-speed connections, as well as enough capacity to keep most devices charged throughout the day. It pairs particularly well with the YOREPEK bag described above, where the bag’s USB connection makes using this far easier.
This charger has several layers of protection, including defenses against overcurrents, overvoltage, over-discharge, and short circuits. A simple power button lets you turn it on or off as desired, while the dual Type-C and Micro USB inputs give you added versatility for how to charge it up again.
For context, 36,800mAh is enough to charge a smartphone like an iPhone 12 about six times. It may not work quite as well for power-hungry devices, but this charger should last you at least one day of continual use for most regular devices.
Pxwaxpy offers a 36-month warranty on this product, as well as lifetime technical support for solving other issues. Portable chargers are especially important if you’re planning to go places where electricity access is scarce or limited, and this is the best balance of quality, price, and performance in 2021.
#8: Hiluckey Solar ChargerPortable chargers are necessary for keeping devices charged up, but even that isn’t enough for some trips if you want to use devices regularly. That’s where Hiluckey’s portable solar charger comes into the picture.
This charger doubles as a power bank, providing even more electricity for emergencies while also letting you leave it somewhere safe and sunny if needed. It’s durable enough to hang from a bag while you walk around, too.
The exterior is built with outdoor activities in mind. It’s functionally dustproof, shockproof, and waterproof, with a built-in flashlight that has an SOS mode for nighttime emergencies. This kit is a little bulky, but it folds down to a reasonably compact size, and you can easily fit it into your luggage if you’re using vacuum bags to compress clothes.
#9: EPICKA Universal AdapterOne thing many people forget before travelling is that countries have different plugs. EPICKA’s universal adapter covers about 150 countries, including most places you’re likely to visit during your trip.
This adapter supports charging up to six devices simultaneously through four USB ports, one Type C port, and one AC socket. Several safety systems are in place, but keep in mind this charger does not convert either the current or the voltage. You may need extra devices for that, depending on what you’re bringing along on your trip.
As with all adapters, the value of this product depends heavily on where you’re going. Notably, it is suitable for most of Europe, the UK, the US, Japan, China, and Australia, but it’s not a good choice for some areas in Africa, Israel, or India. Check the store page to see if it matches your travel plans before buying any adapter.
Part Three: Daily ItemsDaily items are a little tricky because people have different needs and preferences. For that matter, size differences alone can make some travelling gear unviable for trips. However, having all of these can help make each trip far more comfortable.
#10: Saucony Men’s Ankle Socks (Male Travelers)Saucony’s ankle socks are ideal for lower shoes and when you’re travelling in warmer areas. These aren’t a good choice for travelling in cold areas, but the small amount of spandex gives them enough stretch to fit comfortably.
Most socks are fundamentally similar to each other, but these have a few features that help them stand out. Notably, they have a better-cushioned sole than some other socks, which is good if you expect to be on your feet a lot. They also have added arch support thanks to targeted compression areas.
Although not designed specifically for travel, Saucony sells these for aggressive training and workout sessions. Durability matters on trips because replacements can be hard to come by, so make sure you bring several pairs.
#11: Saucony Women’s Performance Socks (Female Travelers)These socks are similar to the male traveler socks but sized for women instead. They are slightly different from the men’s socks, though, with extra cushioning in areas that see more impact and a more comfortable toe seam for heavy use.
Like most good sock brands, Saucony sells these in a wide variety of colors and sizes so you can find something that matches your preferences. The right number of socks to bring depends on what you’re doing, but we recommend at least three that you can rotate between and wash as necessary.
#12: AMMAX Squeezable Silicone Travel TubesThese brightly-colored containers hold three fluid ounces of liquid each. What sets these apart as an excellent choice for travel is the highly squeezable design. There’s no real place for liquids to get stuck, so you can get out as much as possible and get the most from your trip.
These bottles have wide openings for filling, which is vital if you’re trying to pour thicker liquids like shampoos into them. The caps feature a practical no-drip valve system to help avoid spilling out anything you don’t want to use. Although they’re not transparent, it’s easy enough to tell how full they are by squeezing the outsides.
One important thing to remember here is that some care products don’t interact well with silicone. You may see products that the silicone absorbs, and it can be hard to tell what will work and what won’t. Consider packing liquids about two weeks before your trip to be sure the containers won’t swell in transit.
#13: Eco-Friendly Shampoo and Conditioner BarMany people use liquid shampoo and conditioner, but it’s often easier to bring a solid bar that you can keep using throughout your trip. IndulgeMe’s bar is environmentally friendly, with ingredients that are generally safe to use anywhere in the world.
Bars like these also reduce the number of liquids you need and the chance of a puncture ruining your storage. As if that wasn’t good enough, this bar is also suitable for use as face and body wash. That makes it a four-in-one product where you can use as much or as little as you need each day.
Try to buy and use this bar before your trip so you know how fast you tend to go through them. That can help you estimate your usage for the trip and ensure you bring enough to last the entire time.
#14: Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Travel TowelHigh-quality microfiber towels are both durable and practical for travel. This option comes in large and extra-large versions, folding down extremely small and fitting into a convenient carrying bag.
Microfiber makes sense for travel because it dries skin quickly and dries out much faster than traditional towels. The microfiber pattern here uses interlocking stitching for added durability, which is another major consideration when you’re out travelling. An extra hang-dry strap makes it easier to dry it out after use, too.
Most products that are good for camping are also good for travel, and that holds true here. This particular towel is just as helpful for beach use as it is for drying off after using the shower, so it’s a practical choice for nearly any environment.
This towel can double as an extra layer for a blanket during an emergency, but it’s not warm enough to serve in that role full-time. The exception is if you’re staying in a warm area and want a slightly warm covering, in which case this can work quite well.
#15: JASGOOD Travel Security BeltSubtlety is key for security and few things are more subtle than this specialized unisex security belt. Unlike some other belts, there’s very little that can give this away as something for potential thieves to look out for. Even better, it maintains security regardless because it’s practically impossible for anyone to open it without you noticing.
Travel security belts don’t have a lot of space, but they’re an excellent way to carry some cash and any particularly important documents you need to have on you at all times. Keeping about $100 in a belt like this should be enough to help you get almost anywhere you need to go during an emergency.
Actual storage will vary based on things like the thickness of your country’s bills, but on average this belt can hold about four dollars folded up. Any more will make it a little too thick to wear comfortably.
As a bonus, you usually don’t need to take off your belt while going through airport security. That makes this a good way to store cash without worrying that another passenger will filch it while you’re going through security.
#16: Vapur Flexible Water BottlePeople often say you shouldn’t drink the local water while travelling, and there’s some truth to this. Most developed areas are safe enough and unlikely to hurt you, but it’s always better to be as safe as possible. That’s where this flexible, refillable water bottle comes in.
Vapur’s bottle is easily foldable and comes with a hook to stop it from unrolling. The same hook makes it easy to attach to the outside of most travel and camping gear for easy access while it’s full.
Unlike some other bottles, this one stands easily while it’s full instead of dropping over all the time. Vapur sells these in various colors to match personal aesthetics, and in various sizes to meet different needs.
All of that is great to start with, but the bottle itself is practically water-weight. That may not seem like a big difference compared to other water bottles, but every bit of weight you can remove helps out on longer trips.
#17: Travel First Aid KitSafety comes first, but you can’t always rely on having convenient transportation to high-quality hospitals in emergencies. That’s where General Medi’s miniature first aid kit comes into play. This kit includes 110 pieces covering bandages, gloves, swabs, scissors, tweezers, and other supplies that are useful in emergencies.
It’s better to carry as many emergency supplies as possible, but this kit is the best option for travel because it covers all the basics without being too large. A carabiner makes it easy to attach this to the outside of a bag if the inside is too full, though you may want to avoid that in high-theft areas.
Make sure you familiarize yourself with the layout of this first aid kit before you start travelling so you can locate things in emergencies. Taking a few classes on administering first aid can provide extraordinarily valuable experience if you wind up in an emergency and need to treat yourself.
#18: Lewis N. Clark Travel AlarmAnother way to improve security when you’re travelling is by using a travel alarm system. This particular model works for both doors and windows, which is much better than door-only lock systems. It’s easy to set up for practically any door, too, and people on the other side usually can’t tell it’s there.
When it goes off, this travel alarm rings at 91 decibels. For comparison, this is similar to the level of noise from lawnmowers, hairdryers, and many power tools. It’s also louder than the average alarm clock, but quieter than concerts or most car horns. This level of noise isn’t dangerous as long as you don’t have it going for extended periods.
Some travel alarms can hit 120 decibels, but that gets into genuinely dangerous territory if you’re listening to them for more than a few seconds. An alarm that permanently hurts your hearing is too much, so this device works at a much more appropriate level. It’s loud, but not dangerously so.
#19: EYIVIY Contoured Sleep MaskSleep masks are a great way to reduce light levels and sleep more comfortably, especially if you’re still adjusting your schedule and need to sleep during the day. Unfortunately, most masks have gaps around the bottom that can still let light in, defeating the purpose.
EYIVIY addresses that with a contoured sleep mask that uses low-bounce memory foam to hug the face better. The practical result is that far less light has an opportunity to get in, resulting in a better experience. This design also keeps the mask itself further from your eyes, making it easier to blind and move your eyelids without disturbing things like makeup.
Most companies market sleep masks towards women, but this mask is suitable for all adult travelers and most teenagers as well. It works best if you sleep on your back, but even side sleepers shouldn’t notice any particular problems while wearing this mask.
#20: EDWINN Noise Reduction EarplugsEarplugs are often paired with eye masks when you want to sleep comfortably. They can’t help with a strange bed or pillow, but drastically reducing other sensory input can turn a rough sleep into an acceptable one.
These particular earplugs are a reusable design that comes with small and large versions of silicone and memory foam heads. The memory foam is the better choice here, offering a noise reduction of about 29 decibels. This is noticeably better than many competing products, which only reduce noise by about 20 decibels.
For context, this is about the same reduction as taking a noisy restaurant or heavy vehicle traffic and reducing it to the sounds of a quiet office. Normal voices will sound like whispers instead, which means other people can probably talk without disturbing you.
These earplugs have a multi-step noise reduction process, starting with a durable outer metal shell. They should stay in most ears without trouble, especially if you use their form-fitting memory foam heads. It might be worth investing in two pairs of these just in case.
#21: BlueHills Soft Travel PillowIt’s hard to take a proper pillow with you when you’re travelling unless you use vacuum bags to shrink it down. That can alter the feel of your favorite pillow, though, and it’s not compatible with all types of pillows. The simple solution here is getting a travel pillow that can get the job done wherever you need to go.
BlueHills’ soft pillow is a great choice for most people. It’s wide enough to let you sleep in practically any position, while soft enough to feel good against the skin. However, the thing that makes this stand out is the fact that this isn’t actually a pillow.
Its real identity is a travel blanket that comes in a soft storage bag. It’s comfortable enough in pillow form, but if you unfold it, you can stay much warmer in practically any environment. That means this pillow is pulling double duty and ultimately saving you space while you travel.
For all the positives, there’s one reason we can’t recommend this pillow to everyone: it’s warm. This is a major plus if you’re going to a cold area and want to get as warm as possible, but it’s not as useful if you’re travelling to hotter parts of the world and want to stay cool instead. If you’re heading to the tropics, leave this behind.
#22: Travelbob Inflatable Neck PillowMost neck pillows on the market these days are memory foam options, which work well for both comfort and contouring. However, they’re also rather bulky when you’re not wearing them and quite a pain to store in luggage. That’s where this unusual option enters the picture.
Travelbob’s inflatable neck pillow comes with a hand pump on one side so you can rapidly adjust it to your liking. Meanwhile, airflow vents within the fabric ensure a steady supply of cooling air can circulate and stop you from getting too warm.
This is essentially the opposite of the BlueHills travel pillow above. That option is better for colder climates, while this neck pillow is a good choice for warm areas where you want head support without the risk of heating up too much.
Once you’re done using this pillow, you can deflate it to a fraction of its size and realistically store it in your luggage without displacing other things. The outer layer is removable and machine washable, while an optional chin strap can help you keep your head in place.
#23: Travel Phrase BookThis is hard to give a specific recommendation for because which book you need depends on where you’re going. No realistically sized book will cover every country, although Rick Steves’ options are good if you’re heading around Europe.
Try to read a preview of each phrasebook before you buy it. The best books include phrases that specifically tell the listener what you’re hoping for them to do, such as providing yes or no answers or pointing you where you want to go. High-quality guides also have useful input based on a nation’s culture and structure.
For example, an extremely useful phrase to know for travelling to Japan is “Watashi wa densha”. This translates to “I am (a) train”. That’s grammatically incorrect on purpose because it will immediately let the listener know your Japanese skills are very poor, but they’ll still understand that you’re likely trying to find the train and they can point you in the right direction.
This phrase works well in Japan because trains are such an important part of daily life there. Most people take a train ride at least every few days, and even if they don’t, chances are they still know where the nearest station is. Japan is heavily urbanized and relatively traveler-friendly, so you can usually find additional help for anything you need if you can get to a train station.
This type of phrase won’t work effectively in areas without a dense train network, though, which highlights how important it is to know the right phrases for each region.
Physical books are significantly better than digital ones. Having live electronic translation is useful, but if your devices run out of power, a physical book will remain useful.
Part Four: Other GearThere’s plenty of travelling gear on the market, and most of it’s acceptable for most travelers. These items aren’t as useful for every trip, but they may come in handy depending on where you’re going.
#24: LifeStraw Personal Water FilterA portable water bottle is the best choice for drinking on the go, but if you’re travelling to areas with uncertain access to water, this can be a literal lifesaver.
LifeStraw’s personal water filter allows you to drink directly out of streams and other sources of water that have bacteria and other biological organisms. The dense fiber membrane filters out practically all bacteria, parasites, and microplastics that could be in the water.
However, no personal filter is perfect. This particular choice doesn’t filter out certain metals, and it won’t let you drink seawater because the dissolved salts will still be present. Fortunately, most sources of water aren’t harmful if you’re only drinking from them once or twice.
Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly if you get a personal filter. Otherwise, they may stop filtering water at all, and that can be lethal in an emergency. This is a backup safety product, not the main thing you should drink out of on most trips.
#25: JBL CLIP 3 Travel SpeakerDon’t take this out at the airport, but a battery-powered travel speaker is a great way to enjoy music, podcasts, and other media while you’re out and about. JBL’s CLIP 3 is a waterproof Bluetooth speaker suitable for practically every environment. It also comes in a range of snazzy colors to help match the rest of your gear.
The part that makes this speaker stand out is its padlock shape, complete with a built-in carabiner clip at the top. That makes it easy to hang from clothes, hooks, and nearly anything else so you can direct the audio however you like. The interior battery is rechargeable, too, so you don’t have to worry about finding or disposing of batteries during your trip.
#26: BAGSMART Travel Cable OrganizerBAGSMART is somewhat unusual for getting onto this list twice, but that just speaks to the quality of their products. This particular bag is a cable organizer capable of holding various electronic cords and connectors in their own pouches.
It has areas for regular cords and cables, connectors, adapters, SD cards, and even small computer mice. A few pens, computer or otherwise, will also fit snugly inside it.
The exterior has a water-repellent fabric. It’s not outright waterproof and you’ll be in trouble if you submerge it, but casual moisture shouldn’t get in. Dual zippers make it easier to open and close from either side, while a non-slip interior design helps keep everything in place.
This isn’t a must-have for every traveler, for with the increasing popularity of taking electronics on trips, having a safe way to store and organize all the peripherals makes a lot of sense. Best of all, the overall container is slim enough to easily fit with most luggage.
#27: POHO Pill BoxThis is only for travelers with medical needs. Pills can be an important part of overall health and safety, and this box comes with two levels of protection to minimize the risk of things accidentally opening. Each compartment holds more than many competing products, and they’re organized into three compartments for each of seven days.
Depending on your needs, this could work for holding up to three weeks worth of pills. The one downside here is that the outer case isn’t quite durable enough to hold up under heavy use. It’s fine if you wrap it in softer items, but you may want to get a padded case or even another hardshell case for maximum protection.
Sadly, there aren’t too many pillboxes that are truly travel-friendly. This isn’t a bad product by any stretch of the imagination, but there are areas where it could be better. The upside is that the containers are intentionally easy to open on purpose, making them good for users with arthritis or similar difficulties.
ConclusionThe products above are some of the most valuable things to pick up when travelling. Not every person needs every piece of travel gear, and some people will need things that aren’t on this list. However, once you address your basic storage, safety, and health needs with your travelling gear, you’re ready for almost anything.
May 26, 2021
The 27 Best Travel Accessories for 2021
Travel accessories are a great way to improve any trip. Here are our favorite options currently on the market, as well as some additional information you should know before you go shopping.
By ALEX ESPINO Travel accessories are a great way to improve any trip. Here are our favorite options currently on the market, as well as some additional information you should know before you go shopping.
What Is A Travel Accessory?What is a travel accessory, exactly? Is it something small and portable that you can carry with you on plane flights around the world? Is it equipment for campers or boats? Can it be electrical? When does something change from being an accessory to being equipment? Does it need to be travel-related, specifically, or can it include accessories for activities at your destination?
Furthermore, how far do you need to travel for it to be an accessory? Driving three hours to a campground is travel just as much as flying halfway around the world, but both have wildly different expectations.
People have varying opinions on the answers to these questions, so it’s difficult to create a list of travel gadgets that everyone agrees with. That’s why this list of the best travel accessories sorts things by section. Not every accessory matters to every traveler, and that’s okay.
Product Selection And OptionsThis guide focuses on the best accessories, so quality is the main criteria we’re selecting them by. However, if you’re traveling on a budget, remember that many similar accessories are available at lower prices from other manufacturers. They won’t be the best option overall, but those could be better choices for you.
Necessary Travel BasicsThese are the basics that you should get for any trip, near or far.
Apadi Travel Document Organizer
A travel document organizer is arguably the single most important thing you can bring on any particular trip. Essentially a large wallet, these can fit credit and debit cards, passports, identification, cash, and even a pen.
This particular document organizer is available in several colors to appeal to different owners, which is a nice touch.
Now, the reason this product is the #1 thing to buy is that even if you lose everything else you have on a trip, having your document organizer means you can still find some way home from almost anywhere with travel options and general payment systems.
One thing to keep an eye on with a document organizer is an RFID layer. RFID tags are an increasingly popular component for credit cards and ID cards, but it’s also possible to read them from a significant distance if you have the right technology.
RFID-blocking layers in document organizers stop this from being a problem and help reduce the risk of financial theft from people scanning your stuff somewhere in the world.
As if that wasn’t reason enough to get a document organizer, remember that you might not be able to get home on time if you lose your passport. Keeping documents like that in a larger container is much better than letting them rattle around your luggage.
Jasgood Money Belt
Pickpocketing is a major threat in some regions, to the point that everyone from governments to educational institutions have guides on how to prevent it. However, few things are more effective than a good money belt.
As the name implies, money belts are essentially zippered compartments inside a belt. These are extraordinarily difficult for pickpockets to reach because the zippers face inward and are usually snug about your waist. If you want extra security, you can wear shirts that cover the belt so even people who might recognize the specific brand can’t tell if you’re wearing it.
Jasgood’s belt has no brand label on the outside, but it does have a durable nylon webbing that’s suitable for use in most travel environments. It’s also long enough to fit quite a lot of money on the inside, which is important for having a reserved cash fund in case of emergencies.
Overall, we like money belts like this over most competitors. The key difference is that the zipper here faces inward, whereas most other products like coats and bags have the zipper face outward. The best way to protect yourself from pickpocketing is to not look like a target to begin with. The more inconvenient it is to access your money, the safer you’ll be.
This belt is also compatible with non-cash items, including keys, small jewelry, and other valuables. Losing keys is almost as bad as losing all of your money, so being open enough to fit other products is a nice touch.
The one notable flaw with this product is that it has no storage options for credit or ID cards. You’ll need another type of storage for those. As far as storing cash goes, though, the Jasgood money belt is easily a top choice for travel.
Brita 20-Ounce Water Bottle With Filter
The first thing many people say about travel is don’t drink the tap water. Some countries are safe, but the truth is that many regions of the world have a lot of viruses and bacteria in their taps. If you can’t bring a bunch of water bottles with you, the next-best option is a water bottle with a built-in filter.
Brita is one of the most well-known names in water purification thanks to their line of home filtering products. However, they also produce long-lasting travel bottles, and that’s what we’re recommending here.
This particular bottle holds 20 ounces of liquid, which is enough to be useful without taking up too much space. The soft-squeeze exterior is comfortable and lets you increase the water flow as needed, while the filter itself can handle 150-300 refills. That’s enough for several trips with each filter, and replacements are reasonably affordable.
One thing to be aware of here is that the bottle filters water when you drink it, not when you fill it. That means you won’t have an especially fast water flow, so don’t expect to drink the whole bottle in a couple of seconds. However, it’s fine if you only want a few gulps of water at a time.
We like this slower-flow style because it can help stop you from going through all of your water too quickly. Even better, you can fill your bottle up almost anywhere. If the bottle itself gets dirty, it’s dishwasher safe and easy to clean out.
Larger filter bottles are available, but these can take up too much space, especially if you’re on a trip where every inch of cargo space matters.
LifeStraw
This is a lot like the previous option, but it’s for emergency use rather than daily use in most areas. The LifeStraw is a portable filter that can let you drink from most freshwater sources. It does not turn saltwater into drinkable water, so don’t expect to use it if you’re out on the ocean.
Most of the interior of the straw is one long filter, which stops anything larger than 0.2 microns from passing through. The manufacturer rates this for 1000 gallons of water, which is more than many people actually drink in each year. Even better, the filter doesn’t expire, so you won’t have to buy a new one every year or two.
This is a great emergency tool, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you buy it. First, just like the Brita bottle, actual water flow can be a little slow because you need to filter the water and that slows it down a little.
Second, this straw involves pulling all of the water up with your lung capacity, which is harder than turning a bottle upside-down and letting gravity pull it through an existing filter. That makes the LifeStraw a little more challenging to use in some areas.
Some people address this by attaching pumps. but that takes up more space and isn’t as useful for emergencies. Issues like these are why we don’t recommend the LifeStraw for daily use, but it’s still a fantastic option for regular use.
Just make sure you prove the filter before your trip. For those who aren’t familiar with the terminology, proving a filter involves soaking it in water for about ten minutes, then blowing through it and letting it dry. Once you do that, it should be ready to use. It may not work properly, or at all, if you don’t prove it before you start using it.
Ben’s 100 DEET Insect Repellent
This is mostly relevant if you’re traveling outdoors or in areas with a lot of plants where insects are likely to live. If you’re staying primarily in urban areas, ticks and mosquitoes aren’t nearly as big of an issue and you can leave these behind.
This DEET-heavy spray offers about ten hours of protection through a fragrance-free repellent system. They’re also travel-safe thanks to general TSA approval, although the link here is for a convenient multi-pack.
Now, some people worry about DEET, to the point that other manufacturers on the market specifically advertise their products as “DEET-free” or some equivalent. However, as Consumer Reports explains as part of an in-depth examination, DEET is broadly safe and extraordinarily effective when you use it as directed.
One thing that stands out here is that DEET is genuine repellent. Many other repelling products are actually poisons that kill insects on contact, but DEET convinces insects to stay away and won’t cause any disruptions to the ecosystem.
Scientists are uncertain of the exact reason DEET works. Some think that it confuses insects, while others believe it smells horrible to them and they’ll avoid it at practically any cost. However, scientists broadly agree on the effectiveness, which is why it’s one of the most-used insect repellents in the world.
The real trick here is bringing along enough for your entire trip. These bottles will provide several uses each, but they’re not particularly large and you may need at least two coats per day to maintain effectiveness. Try to bring along a few spares if possible.
Travel ElectronicsPeople don’t always bring electronics on trips, but if you do, these are vital.
SublimeWare International Power Adapter
There’s no point in bringing along electronics unless you can keep them charged up, and few products work better for that than an international power adapter. SublimeWare’s model is compatible with sockets in over 150 countries, which is about as effective as you can reasonably expect.
However, the real value of this product lies in its mix of plugs. It has four USB outlets and one AC outlet, all of which you can use at the same time. Note that this is an adapter, but not a converter, so you’ll get the same voltage out that you get in. This isn’t a big problem most of the time, but higher-voltage outlets could burn out some older devices like hair dryers.
Two of the USB sockets on this device are 2.4A smart sockets, versus the regular 2.1A that other devices use. The main difference is that the smart sockets can match power intake for compatible devices, which means faster and better charging for some things. That’s a great feature and helps this product stand out from its competitors.
The pin locking mechanism is also nice. This keeps the pins in place while you’re pushing them into the socket, ensuring overall functionality without having to push the pins back out again. Little details like these make international power adapters better, and best of all, the entire thing is compact enough to fit into almost any storage container. Just mind the knobs on the side.
Targus 4-Port USB Hub
SublimeWare’s international power adapter is a good choice for most people because it already has a lot of USB ports on it. However, those ports are clustered close together, so you may find that you can’t use all of them at once.
Whether you need more ports or just more space, the simple solution is a product like this USB adapter. As a USB 2.0 device, it’s compatible with most modern devices through their existing cables. However, the real value here is its balance of price and smart design.
Each port here is far enough away from the others that plugs shouldn’t interfere with each other, and the general build quality is good enough to hold up under international travel.
There are some USB 3.0 versions, which have higher data transmission speeds, but those often require dedicated power outlets and that’s hard to guarantee during international travel. This hub is entirely self-powered through its own connection. Between this and the international power adapter, you should have all the USB ports you need.
GL.iNET Mini Portable Hotspot
This portable hotspot is extremely impressive for its size and price, especially when you consider that it also works as a router, a repeater, and an AP system for varying devices.
Portable hotspots allow you to stay connected to the internet almost anywhere you can get a signal. Even better, this unit is OpenVPN compatible and lets you use many types of VPN software to keep your information private while you’re traveling around.
What really makes this device stand out is its overall versatility. Plenty of devices work exclusively as hotspots, but since this unit can do anything from extending the range of an existing hotel signal to transforming existing ethernet connections into wireless networks, you can use it to adapt to your existing environment.
This unit offers data speeds of about 300 Mbps, which is plenty for streaming videos from services like Netflix or Disney Plus. Of course, that assumes the network you’re connecting to supports those speeds, but that’s not a problem in most developed areas.
The other thing we like here is the bright yellow coloring. That helps this device stick out so you can quickly locate it when you need it. Most portable hotspots are either white or black, which means they blend in with all of your other electronics and can be hard to fetch in a hurry.
Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Canceling Headphones
Active noise cancellation is one of the best features in modern headphones, and few sets do it better than Sony’s travel-focused headset. This option is usable both wired and wirelessly, with comfortable over-the-ear cups and a carry case that fits the adapter plug and cable.
However, active noise cancellation alone isn’t enough to make a headset stand out. It’s all the other features that make this option worth considering for your travel.
A built-in microphone lets you take calls without having a long mic sticking out by your face, while Alexa compatibility means you can get music, information, and more sent straight to your headphones from compatible devices. Touch controls on the ear cup make it even easier to take precise control.
The part we like the best is the quick attention mode. Holding your hand up to the right ear cup instantly turns down the volume for a conversation, and removing your hand returns the volume to its original setting. That’s especially useful in busy environments.
The main drawback of these headphones is their price. These are at the higher end of what you should ever pay for a set of headphones. If you just want the active noise cancellation, cheaper options will get the job done. Most cheap headphones aren’t nearly as comfortable on long flights, though.
Long-term comfort matters when you’re on a plane for anywhere from six to eighteen hours, so don’t skimp on getting good headphones.
Make sure to get an adapter if necessary, though. This is particularly relevant for Apple products, whose Lightning connectors may need an additional adapter to work with regular headsets.
Jelly Comb Electronics Organizer
Getting all of your cables jumbled up is a bad idea when you’re out on a trip, but fortunately, options like this electronics organizer can keep everything in order. This two-layer bag has enough room for well over a dozen different cables, as well as larger items like portable power banks and tablets.
The outside shell isn’t hard, but it does have plastic bones that give it a semi-rigid structure and help prevent crushing in your bag. As a bonus, the square design fits well in most suitcases and makes it easier to organize things.
The outside of this organizer is waterproof nylon. While it won’t keep water out if you totally submerge things, the premium zippers and tightly woven surface will protect the interior from rain, mist, and most other realistic threats. For added security, you can padlock the zippers, although this isn’t a true security product and won’t stop a determined thief.
This electronics organizer is most useful for wires and cables, but it’s flexible enough to store numerous other types of products as needed. Creativity is always useful when space is tight for a trip, and that definitely helps this stand out as one of the best travel accessories currently on the market.
RAVPower 32000mAh Portable Power Bank
Portable power banks are a great way to keep your devices charged when access to electricity is uncertain. This particular device offers 32000mAh of energy and three ports for connecting devices, allowing you to charge several things all at once.
10000mAh is the smallest any travel bank should be, but going well above that helps ensure you’ll have the power to keep things running in emergencies. The obvious downside here is that it’s relatively large and heavy, which can be a problem if you’re treading close to a weight limit for flights.
This isn’t a high-speed charger, but it will still charge up most phones in about two hours, which is fast enough for most travel. It does take some time to charge up this power bank, but that’s normal for anything with such massive capacity. This gets more useful the more devices you have, so it’s definitely worth considering for an electronics-focused trip.
Tranmix Portable Solar Power Bank
This unit also stores electricity, but that’s not the main reason to buy it. No, the real reason to get this is the fact that it’s solar-powered, which means you can use it practically anywhere in the world to recharge a proper power bank and, through that, any electronic device.
This isn’t the same as having a generator and you may not generate enough power for uninterrupted use of any device, but this product essentially guarantees that you cannot run out of electricity long-term.
There are plenty of other portable solar panels on the market, but this one stands out somewhat thanks to its compact folding design. That makes it much easier to pack and store when you’re getting on a plane, which is fundamentally better.
Other features here include a rainproof, shockproof, and dustproof design, as well as a bright flashlight with a built-in SOS flashing option in case you need to call for help.
For context, expect about 40 hours of sunlight for a full charge, or 12 hours if you can plug it into the wall. This is an emergency power bank, versus the regular-use option above, so try to avoid depleting the charge on this one unless you have to.
If 12 hours sounds like a long charging time, remember that this unit provides about 8 full charges for most smartphones. It has a vastly higher storage capacity than they do, so it naturally takes much longer to charge. The built-in battery is better than a solar panel without that, though, since it means you can use your stored electricity anytime.
Storage AccessoriesWhile minimalist travel is possible, most trips are going to require some storage.
OEE Packing Organizers
Every inch matters when you’re planning a longer trip, but using packing organizers is a great way to subdivide your suitcases and make things easier to find. OEE’s six-piece set includes three cloth bags in different sizes, as well as extra bags for underwear, shoes, and toiletries to keep them apart from everything else.
The regular bags come with transparent tops so you can see exactly what’s inside them without having to open them, and that’s the kind of touch we like seeing. There are plenty of larger packing organizers on the market, but most of those work better outside of suitcases instead of fitting inside them, which disqualifies them in our view.
One other thing that sets these packing organizers apart is the variety of colors. These organizers come in about a dozen different colors, which means they’re more likely to appeal to your aesthetic preferences than products that only come in one color.
Under Armour Adult Duffle Bag
Duffle bags are great for shorter trips at your destination, as well as 1-2 day stays where you don’t need to bring too much. These bags also collapse extremely well, making them easy to pack into suitcases and other storage items.
Notable features on this bag include a water-resistant finish, abrasion-resistant panels on the bottom and sides, and an organization pocket for quick access. A vented pocket helps store smellier laundry and shoes, too, which means this bag can double as a laundry tote on some trips.
The overall build is 95% polyester and 5% elastane. For those who aren’t familiar with it, elastane (also known by brand names like Spandex and Lycra) is an extremely elastic fabric that helps this bag stretch without tearing. Durability is crucial when you’re on trips because finding replacements on short notice can be difficult, so it’s always nice to see things like that.
Under Armour’s bag is one of the most cost-effective options on the market, offering a good balance between its performance and its price. It’s also available in a wide variety of colors, so you can match it to the rest of your luggage or just get a bag that’s bright and easy to see.
Travelon Anti Theft Classic Backpack
Day backpacks are a good alternative to duffle bags, but come at the cost of somewhat less storage space. Either way, it’s certainly easier to carry around a small bag than a full suitcase, so we recommend getting at least one of these products.
Travelon’s anti-theft bag stands apart from other backpacks thanks to its focus on practicality for travelers. It includes RFID-blocking slots for cards and passports, as well as a slash-resistant body and strap pair to resist knives.
That’s pretty good all by itself, but this bag also has locking compartments so people can’t simply unzip them when you’re not paying attention. The locks will typically take at least a few seconds to figure out and undo, which is enough time to notice the tugging and respond to any theft attempt.
Travelon’s bag is significantly better as an anti-theft option than Under Armour’s duffle bag, so if you’re only getting one, this is the better of the two choices. It’s not quite a full-size backpack, though, so don’t expect this to have enough room if you’re going hiking and need to bring a lot of stuff.
Spacesaver Vacuum Storage Bags
When space is at a premium, the easiest way to get more room is to remove air from the equation and flatten your items. That’s where vacuum storage bags come in. These are great for storing towels, blankets, pillows, shirts, and more.
Spacesaver claims that you can get up to 80% more space through their vacuum bags, although the reality is that it depends on what you’re storing. Regardless, using these can often get you several more inches of space in your luggage, and that’s huge when you want to pack as much as possible.
As a bonus, this set comes with a manual travel pump. Sadly, that means you’ll have to devote some of the space you saved to storing the pump, but you’ll usually come out ahead regardless. These are especially useful if you want to bring your own sheets or pillows on a trip.
One thing to keep in mind here is that the vacuum bags are available in several sizes. It’s generally better to get the smallest bags necessary for storing certain items, so you may need to get several different packs.
That can increase the cost of these fairly significantly, though. In short, vacuum bags are a great choice if you have money to spare but need more room in your bags. They’re a little harder to justify on a tighter budget, though.
Letsfit Portable Luggage Scale
One thing that’s always difficult is estimating how heavy your bags are for a return trip. Airlines often charge more if your bags weigh too much, so the best way to thwart that is getting a digital luggage scale that you can use to weigh your belongings.
Letsfit’s digital scale is a straightforward example of these products, capable of weighing bags accurately up to about 110 pounds. That’s heavier than most luggage ever gets, so it’s more than good enough for the job.
A clear backlit LCD provides an easy-to-see readout, while the zero/tare function immediately resets the scale whenever you’re not using it. The slim design will fit into nearly any bag without trouble, while the metal connections to the scale itself provide outstanding durability.
This isn’t as important if you don’t plan to buy anything or aren’t close to weight limits for your flights. If there’s any question, though, investing in a digital scale can help you avoid unexpected charges.
Cleanliness & HygieneCleanliness is a vital part of any trip, from the shortest to the longest. These are some of the best travel accessories for staying clean.
OlimpiaFit Microfiber Towels 3-Size Pack
Microfiber towels are generally better than traditional towels for travel. They’re soft, anti-slip, and can clean electronics as well as people. OlimpiaFit’s three-pack includes towels in different sizes to suit different needs, all with outstanding moisture absorbing qualities so you can dry yourself off quickly.
One thing you may notice is that these towels are significantly thinner than standard towels. That’s also great for travel because it means they’ll take up less space in your bag. Less obviously, it means they have drastically more surface area and can dry off several times faster than towels made from other materials.
These towels are surprisingly durable for their size, too, thanks to an exterior ring that stops tears. Whether you want to wipe off some sweat or dry off after a shower, this three-set of towels gets the job done and even works for sharing towels in a pinch.
Purell Hand Sanitizer, 36-Pack of Travel Size Bottles
We don’t truly need to go into why hand sanitizer is so useful. Between helping prevent the spread of Covid-19 and disinfecting from other bacterial and viral threats, having hand sanitizer is good for everything from visiting the store to traveling around the world.
Purell is a better-known brand, which means their formula is demonstrably reliable. This 36-pack comes with handy 1-ounce travel bottles, which are small enough to fit on practically any flight without problems. You can also get large bottles and empty small bottles if you want, but we think it’s easier to just get the travel-ready pack yourself.
One thing that sets this pack apart from other hand sanitizers is the mix of other ingredients. Purell has a surprisingly long history, but it stands out from some other hand sanitizers thanks to the thickening agents that make it easy to use without waste. Purell also has moisturizers in it, which is ultimately more comfortable than products that only clean.
Purell is about 70% ethyl alcohol, which is the best recognized concentration for killing most pathogens. It’s not quite as good as proper washing with soap, but it’s generally good enough when you’re on the move.
Breezeo Laundry Detergent Sheets
Most people are familiar with laundry dryer sheets, but did you know that companies also sell detergent sheets? These are a great, lightweight option for travel thanks to their small size and easy storage. These are generally safer than using pods or powders, and Breezeo’s strips are certified bio-based products that are safe to use in most areas.
Each of these laundry sheets comes in four perforated sections that you can tear apart to get as much soap as you need. While they’re mainly intended for use with washing machines, these also work well for washing garments by hand. That’s a vital consideration for travel because you can’t always be sure you’ll have access to machines.
As a bonus, these detergent sheets are much lighter than liquid containers. Every ounce matters for travel on planes with tight weight limits, and even small savings on weight in different areas can lead to a big impact.
The one thing to keep in mind here is that you shouldn’t let these detergent sheets get too warm or too wet. We recommend storing them in a waterproof plastic bag, regardless of whether or not you’re keeping them in their original container.
HOMEST 2 Pack XL Travel Laundry Bag
Laundry bags have two purposes during travel. First, they hold dirty laundry so you know what needs to be washed and what doesn’t. Second, you can keep everything together when you’re washing it, which helps stop you from losing your laundry somewhere along the way.
HOMEST sells these nylon bags in several sizes, although the XL is the most useful if you have a lot of laundry and want to do it all at once. They’re also a great choice for washing your laundry by hand, which you can do with products like the Breezeo detergent sheets above.
HOMEST uses double-stitched seams and thick nylon for durability here, while the locking drawstring can tie shut to keep everything inside the bag. The extra large options hold about 3-4 average loads of laundry each, while most travel bags hold closer to two loads of laundry.
Finally, we like the “wash me” text on the outside of the bags. These provide a useful reminder of what they’re for. It’s easy to lose track of the purpose of every bag and item during a long trip, so little things like that make products significantly more useful.
Cottonelle Flushable Wet Wipes
While these are technically flushable, you shouldn’t flush them, even though the manufacturer encourages it. Just throw them away instead.
With that said, wet wipes are a useful sanitation measure when you’re out on a trip. Whether you need to clean your hands or other parts of your body, they’ll get the job done when you don’t have access to anything else. This is especially useful if you plan to camp out in places with no access to running water.
Cottonelle’s 252-pack of wet wipes is more than enough for most trips, although you may want to bring two packs for longer trips just in case. These contain no alcohol, parabens, or dyes, just mild amounts of cleaners that can get dirt and other debris off of your body.
Safety And Security While TravelingA little extra safety and security can go a long way when you’re traveling the world.
Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Locks
No locks will stop a sufficiently prepared thief, but these are more than enough to prevent casual theft. This affordable four-pack comes with a pop-up indicator to let you know if the TSA inspected your luggage, as well as a durable zinc body that will resist basic opening tools.
With a closed length of 1.5 inches, these locks have enough space to go through almost anything on your bags and still shut snugly. They also let you set your own combination, which is much better than having to stick with whatever the factory decides.
Even better, these locks don’t use keys. This means you’ll need to remember the combination, but it also means there’s nowhere for thieves to use lockpicks or other basic tools. There’s no plastic on this lock, either, which would be easy to break with a little pressure.
Again, these are not perfect locks by any stretch of the imagination. You’d need to pay a lot more for something truly secure. They’re more than good enough for their real role, though, and that’s all we really want to see from a travel lock.
Lewis N Clark Travel Door Alarm
Travel door alarms are easily among the best travel accessories if you want to secure places where you’re not confident in locks alone. This system is easy to set up and comes with a built-in flashlight so you can even attach it in the dark.
If it goes off, this device makes noise at about 91 decibels, which is about as loud as a welder and extremely likely to wake you (and everyone else) up if it goes off out of nowhere. This alarm is also compact and lightweight, with an adjustable cord lock to help it fit over different handles.
While this is technically a door alarm, it works just as well in windows. It might be worth bringing two of these if you’re especially uncertain about the area or plan to sleep near ground level.
Travel ComfortablyFinally, what’s travel without a little comfort? Most people don’t get ultra-luxurious accommodations every step of the trip, but you don’t have to pay a ton of money to make a trip easier on yourself.
Restorz Melatonin Gummies
Melatonin is a widely-used sleep supplement, and it’s particularly helpful for travel when you want to adjust to your new time zone quickly. For those who aren’t familiar with it, melatonin is a chemical that tells your brain when it’s time to sleep and having more of it means your brain will get ready to go to bed.
These gummies work best when you take them 30-60 minutes before you want to go to sleep. This particular package is a four-pack of fourteen gummies each, and two weeks is about right for longer trips. You can always bring more packs if necessary.
As a bonus, melatonin is non-addictive and doesn’t form habits. The main reason for this is that Melatonin is a natural chemical that your body already produces every day. You might appreciate the restful sleep enough to keep using them even after your trip, though, so keep an eye out for that.
ANBOW Reusable Silicone Earplugs
Earplugs aren’t as much fun as using noise-reducing headphones to listen to music, but they’re much lighter and you can wear them in practically any environment. These earplugs reduce noise by about 32 decibels, which is enough to turn regular conversation into whispers.
Sadly, small items are easy to lose and that can ruin an otherwise-great trip. That’s why this particular pack comes with three pairs of earplugs, including a connecting cable and a convenient travel pouch to keep all of them together.
Earplugs are especially valuable for people who are sensitive to environmental noises. Suddenly being in a new place can be overwhelming, but these soft silicone plugs are definitely worth considering as a way to mitigate sensory input and focus your mind on other things.
Sunany Inflatable Travel Pillow
Travel pillows are a common sight at airport stores, and with good reason. However, this particular pillow stands out from the crowd thanks to an unusual H-shaped design that doesn’t push your head forward nearly as far. That’s a big deal when you’re in a plane for hours at a time, or worse, trying to get some sleep.
As a bonus, this inflatable pillow is easy to adjust to your preferred firmness and comes with a simple hood to help block light coming in from above when you’re trying to sleep. Both of these are rare features on travel pillows, and they’re ultimately the deciding factor that puts this ahead of the competition.
For convenience, this pillow also comes with a durable travel bag. This reduces the risk of accidental pokes and punctures, which are the main weakness of an otherwise-excellent pillow. Memory foam pillows are also decent options, but they tend to have thick middles that push the neck forward. That makes them a little harder to recommend over Sunany’s design.
36 Best Travel Jobs to Make Money Traveling the World
If you dream of ditching your cubicle for a life of working and traveling the world, you’re not alone—according to MBO partners, the number of digital nomads increased by 49% from 2019 to 2020. Between industries that require travel, the uptick in digital jobs, and more companies than ever making remote work possible for their employees, it’s a great time to search for a travel job.
By ALEX ESPINO If you dream of ditching your cubicle for a life of working and traveling the world, you’re not alone—according to MBO partners, the number of digital nomads increased by 49% from 2019 to 2020. Between industries that require travel, the uptick in digital jobs, and more companies than ever making remote work possible for their employees, it’s a great time to search for a travel job.
Whether you have a doctorate degree or are fresh out of high school with little work experience, we’ll share 36 amazing travel jobs that fit practically any ability.
Below are the categories that we’ll be covering:
Travel jobs that don’t require experienceJobs requiring travel and no degreeRemote jobs for globetrottersHigh paying jobs requiring travelJobs with international travelMiscellaneous travel jobsThat said, some of the jobs we’ll cover have overlap with other categories. Ready to pack your bags? Let’s begin!
Identifying a Travel JobThe jobs within the categories that we’ll be covering vary in the amount of traveling you’d be doing. You may have heard of the terms digital nomad, backpacker, and ex-pat. It’s common for people to use these words interchangeably when referring to jobs abroad. However, as you gear up to find a travel job, let’s define this lingo. That way, you’ll sound savvier when meeting fellow travelers.
Digital NomadA digital nomad is a person who is 100% location independent. That means that as long as they have WiFi and a laptop, they can work from anywhere. For many, becoming a digital nomad is the cream of the crop kind of lifestyle—you can work at airports in between flights, at cafés, coworking spaces, or anywhere else you desire. Your time is your own unless you have the kind of job with a boss and set hours.
BackpackerWe’ve all heard the phrase “backpacking through Europe,” but the truth is you can backpack through anywhere. Backpacker jobs involve hands-on ways to earn income that usually don’t require a degree. You might even get paid under the table. Examples include musicians, working in agriculture, and selling art on the street. The bottom line here is that if you can’t stand the thought of working on a laptop all day, a backpacker travel job may be a good fit for you.
ExpatExpats are people who live and work in another country long-term. You may work for a company in that country or work remotely in another country for a business in your homeland. In either case, most expats obtain residency in the country they’re living in since most countries only allow foreigners to stay up to a few months on a tourist visa.
Career-Based TravelIn addition to the three terms we just covered, there’s another important category that some of the jobs we’ll be sharing with you fall under—career-oriented jobs. These are jobs that keep you based in your home country but involve domestic or international travel. Examples include pilots and travel agents. Often but not always, career-based travel jobs require a college degree.
Now that we’ve got that covered let’s dive into these amazing jobs that will help you see the world.
Travel jobs that don’t require experienceWhether you’re entering the working world for the first time or are doing a mid-life career change, you might be needing a travel job that you can learn on the spot. We’ve compiled some great employment options for you here that won’t ask for a resume packed with experience.
HousekeeperPotential income: Varies depending on the country, starting at minimum wage or free accommodation.
If keeping a clean house is in your blood, being an international housekeeper could fund your travels. It’s unlikely that you’ll get rich doing so, but there are plenty of people willing to hire housekeepers with good work ethics.
Some people might hire you under the table to keep their house clean or to manage the cleaning of their Airbnb rentals. In these cases, you might receive free board in exchange for your time. In other instances, you could housekeep for a hostel or hotel.
Websites like Workaway and Worldpackers are a great starting point for dipping your toes into the international housekeeping world.
Hostel Temporary EmployeePotential income: Free accommodation or potentially an hourly rate around minimum wage.
While a hostel may hire you to be a housekeeper, they offer lots of other opportunities. Jobs you could do include being a receptionist, developing and executing hostel activities, or working at an onsite bar/restaurant.
Hostels don’t usually expect their workers to stick around for long; they most commonly “pay” you by offering an (often shared) room and (sometimes) board. However, if you sign a longer-term contract, you might get an hourly wage.
Often, the best way to find hostel jobs is by visiting them in person. You can also keep an eye on the aptly named Hostel Jobs for listings. Do you need a little more substance before signing up for a hostel job? Hostelz illustrates how such work can boost your resume.
Bartending and WaitressingPotential income: $1,000 – $3,000+ per month, depending on tips.
Bartending and waitressing is not only a great way to keep you financially afloat while traveling, but depending on where you work, you could make out well with tips.
Touristy areas are more likely to hire foreign bartenders and waitresses since they want people who speak English. However, having a grasp of the local language and any other languages will boost your chance of getting a job.
Australia is a popular place to work in the service industry because they offer special work visas for people up to 30 years old. Regardless of where you are in the world, some restaurant owners may pay you under the table if you don’t have a work visa.
Join a Geological ExpeditionPotential income: $20+ per hour if a U.S. company hires you.
Taking part in an archaeological or geological undertaking is a great way to work alongside scientists and perform meaningful work. You’ll have the chance to get close to historical places and artifacts, all while getting paid for it.
The competition can be fierce for this line of work, and it’s critical that you’re in good physical condition. You also need to be comfortable working in potentially extreme climate conditions and enjoy working as a team and on your own.
Environmental Science is a great resource for understanding the different fields in this line of work. If you’re PADI certified and interested in underwater expeditions, this website might inspire you for the marine geological field.
Jobs Requiring Travel and No DegreeFor self-taught people or those who want to skip the hefty loans that often come with a college education, searching for a travel job that doesn’t ask for a degree is key. Thankfully, there are many travel jobs out there that you can turn into a career without a college degree, provided that you have a little experience under your belt.
International FarmingPotential income: Room and board.
With organizations like WWOOF, people interested in the agriculture industry have more opportunities than ever to experience agro-tourism. In almost all cases, agricultural work abroad offers you room and board in exchange for your labor.
You can sign up for long or short-term stays and projects ranging from beekeeping to pineapple picking. Work is typically abundant, but there’s a catch—you’ll have to pay a small annual fee to use websites such as WWOOF, as do the farmers who list their properties.
Although WWOOF is the dominant agro-tourism platform, you can also take a look at WorkingTraveler and Helpx.
Au-PairPotential income: $200+ per week, plus room and board.
If you love kids and being in a family environment, working as an au-pair could be a great opportunity for you. Au-pairs live in a family’s residence, taking care of their children and doing housework, as specified in your agreement.
Being an au-pair isn’t for the casual traveler; it can be an around-the-clock kind of job, depending on the children’s ages. However, you’ll receive free room and board in addition to a stipend.
The beauty about being an au-pair is that you can work for a family abroad or work for a family in your home country that travels frequently and would take you with them. While you don’t need a degree, having childcare experience and CPR training is a plus.
Tourism EntertainmentPotential income: Ranges from tips to minimum wage to a large sum, depending on the country and host location.
Entertainers in a tourist setting host events harnessing their unique talents. Examples of tourism entertainment include running shows on cruise ships or at hotels, hosting fun corporate programs, and entertaining at children’s parties.
You could be a comedian, musician, or any other talent type that brings a smile to people’s faces. The most successful people in the tourism entertainment industry keep their audiences engaged by performing unusual or awe-inspiring acts.
A hotel might offer you a contract to be a tourist entertainer for a set amount of money, or you might work a popular tourist street, garnering tips. You can find entertainment positions at places like Animajobs.
Travel PhotographerPotential income: $50 to $2,000+ per month
Don’t expect to attract many travel photography clients by uploading a few shots from your iPhone on Instagram. However, if you have a high-quality camera and skills under your belt, you can build a freelance travel photography business.
Travel photographers make their living by different means, and they often combine these methods to create multiple sources of income. For example, you could shoot photos on your travel trips and then upload them to places like Adobe Stock and Shutterstock, where you can license and sell them.
Alternatively, with the right networking and marketing, you could attract clients who will pay you to go abroad with them, such as for destination weddings.
Cruise Ship EmployeePotential income: $1,000 – $3,000+, plus room and board.
Cruise companies are always looking to hire talented people. With high pay and the chance to be at a new destination nearly every day, this is among the best jobs for people who want to save as much as possible while seeing as much as possible.
From housekeeping to guest services to entertainment and managers, cruises offer jobs for many different skill levels. Life onboard isn’t all glamorous, though—you’ll be on your feet a lot, privacy is scarce, and you’ll often (but certainly not always) have to work when docked at gorgeous destinations.
There’s no shortage of places to find cruise jobs. Websites like All Things Cruise and All Cruise Jobs are a great place to get you started.
Truck DriverPotential income: $3,700+ per month.
If you’re the type that prefers to drive to your destination to see the sights along the way instead of flying, then truck driving may be a good fit for you.
While you don’t need a degree to be a truck driver, you will need to get your commercial driver’s license, be at least 21 years old, and keep a clean drug and alcohol record. You could stay stateside or head over to Europe, where private trucking companies in the European Union hire truck drivers.
Are you interested in learning more about how truck driving jobs work? Check out the steps to becoming a truck driver and learn about a truck driver’s personal experience.
Remote Jobs for GlobetrottersOf all the jobs that allow you to travel, remote jobs are currently the most fashionable. These jobs are some of the most flexible when it comes to you deciding where you want to work and when you want to leave to explore a new city or country.
Social Media ConsultantPotential income: $30,500 – $69,000+ per year.
Social media is one of the most valuable modern-day resources for companies wanting to market their business. And lucky for people with a knack for social media, they’re willing to pay good money for you to manage their accounts for them.
As a social media consultant, being disciplined and consistent is critical to success. You don’t necessarily need to have a degree in this field. Still, you should build a portfolio of your social media successes, even if it means offering to do social media consulting work for free at first.
You can choose to work as a social media freelancer or for a company. Websites like Indeed and Shine are excellent places to look for social media consultant opportunities.
BookkeeperPotential income: $39,000 – $54,000+ per year.
Let’s start with this—bookkeeping and accounting are not the same. Bookkeeping doesn’t require anything more than a high school diploma and excellent organizational tools, although taking a licensing course will increase your chances of getting a job.
Many businesses seek bookkeepers to avoid the high costs of paying an accountant. As a bookkeeper, you’ll use online software to manage a company’s income and expenses and keep basic tax-related paperwork in order.
To be a bookkeeper, you’ll need to be detail-oriented. While you can work for a set company that offers a set salary, many other businesses hire freelance bookkeepers. That way, you have more control over your time and how much you earn.
Teaching English OnlinePotential income: $10 – $40 per hour.
There are two kinds of international English teaching—teaching online and teaching in person. Teaching English online is a great fit for people who have a 4-year college degree but don’t want to go through the process of getting TEFL certified (although being certified will boost your income).
Other requirements to teach English online include a strong Internet connection, a headset, and a laptop. The students you teach will vary based on the company and your experience. Most new teachers start teaching young children, while more experienced teachers may work with college students or adult professionals.
Most online teaching English jobs are in Asia, so you’ll need to be willing to work early in the mornings or late in the evenings. You can find these jobs at places like VIPKid and Whales English.
Virtual AssistantPotential income: $3 – $15 per hour.
As a virtual assistant, you’ll help a business perform routine tasks that they want to outsource. Examples include answering emails, scheduling phone calls, putting together presentations, doing light accounting work, etc.
In some cases, a business may want you to have experience in a particular field. But most of the time, a positive attitude and strong work ethic are all you need. The downside to being a virtual assistant is that, depending on the type of work, you might be up against people from lower-income countries applying for jobs, driving the price per hour down. However, some companies value hiring virtual assistants with English as their native tongue.
Upwork, Freelancer, and Flexjobs are all great places to start your virtual assistant job hunt.
IT JobPotential income: $65,000 – $100,000+ per year.
It’s no secret that IT jobs are careers that bring in a lucrative income while offering the chance to work from anywhere. That said, not all IT jobs are remote.
So, if you’re planning on working for a company, check to make sure they’re okay with you traveling the globe. Otherwise, picking up freelance work on websites like Remote.co and We Work Remotely might be a better fit for you.
Getting a job in IT requires either a degree or a lot of experience in a set field. Specialties like web developers, DevOps engineers, Mobile app developers, and more are all excellent careers for remote work.
BloggingPotential income: $500 – $20,000+ per month.
You don’t need to have a blog specialized in the travel industry to travel the globe; you can blog on any topic from anywhere. While blogging can bring in a huge sum of money, you’ll need to practice patience and consistency, for it takes time to build up authority on search engines and a following with your readers.
Websites like WordPress allow you to build a blog for a low fee. You’ll need to choose a domain name and sign up for website hosting, which you can do through companies like Bluehost and HostGator.
Once your blog is up and running, you can run paid advertisements, accept sponsorships, and do affiliate marketing to get income. You can even create and sell your own product.
Digital Content ExpertPotential income: $38,000 – $56,000+ per year.
A digital content creator is a broad term to describe a person who supports a business with their digital marketing and outreach. Examples of digital content you can produce include videos, photos, articles, and movies.
When hiring a digital creator as a freelancer or full-time employee, most companies look for a person with set specialties. Therefore, you should work on harnessing your skills by taking some low-cost courses on websites such as Udemy.
While it might sound like an easy job at first, the most successful digital content creators dedicate many hours to creating pieces of work their clients will be happy with. You can find these jobs on websites like Fiverr, LinkedIn, and SimplyHired.
TranscriptionistPotential income: $15 – $30+ per hour.
A transcriptionist is a person who turns a voice recording into a written document. It requires an immense amount of concentration but is an excellent job to do from anywhere in the world.
You don’t need a degree or even previous experience to become a transcriptionist. However, you will need to have a keen ear for understanding people who mumble or have heavy accents. You’ll also need a laptop, headphones, and a foot pedal.
Often, transcriptionists work for doctors or lawyers. Therefore, you may need to look up terms that you’re unsure how to spell. You can find transcription jobs on websites like GoTranscript and Upwork.
Fitness InstructorPotential income: $25 – $70+ per hour.
If fitness and coaching run in your blood, becoming an online fitness instructor could help you make a difference in people’s lives while you explore the world. Most online fitness instructors run their own businesses, so having a background in marketing is useful (although certainly not necessary).
You can opt to run group or private fitness lessons, coaching your students as you would if you were in the gym with them. Often, classes that don’t require fancy equipment are best, so specialties like yoga are an excellent option for online lessons.
A lot goes into determining the price to charge for your classes, so this pricing structure guide should help. The PTDC also offers a great resource for people thinking about becoming an online fitness trainer.
High Paying Jobs Requiring TravelYou have bills to pay—we get that. Or, you might even have a family that’s traveling around with you, relying on your income to keep a roof over their head. Luckily, many jobs that require travel and pay well. Ready to boost your bank account? Check out the jobs below.
SAP ExpertPotential income: $83,000 – $150,000+ per year.
SAP is an abbreviation for “Systems Applications and Products in Data Processing.” In short, this is a branch of the IT industry where you manage the software that supports business operations and customer relations.
There are two kinds of SAP professions: technical and functional. The article here describes this field better than we ever could. The beauty of SAP work is that companies often need support on a short-term basis.
Therefore, you can work as a remote consultant from your laptop, or you can apply to work on short-term projects at in-person offices throughout the world. We Work Remotely is a great place to kickstart your SAP consultant job search.
Traveling NursePotential income: $35 – $50+ per hour, plus room, board, and other benefits.
If you have a nursing degree, you’re in luck. There’s a huge demand for traveling nurses who sign up for specific projects in a set destination around the world for a predetermined amount of time.
Because of how in-demand traveling nurses are, the contracts often come with phenomenal benefits like housing, continuing education, and competitive salaries. Some nurses even enjoy working for a portion of the year, saving up money, and then taking time off to explore the globe on their own.
One of the most common ways to secure traveling nurse jobs is by applying through a staffing agency. Companies like Fastaff and Aya Healthcare are excellent places to start your search.
VIP Flight AttendantPotential income: $50,000 – $100,000+ per year.
You can be a regular flight attendant and travel the world, but being a VIP flight attendant takes it to a whole new income level. VIP flight attendants work for private flights and corporate jets.
The job comes with many perks that commercial flight attendants don’t always have access to, such as the possibility to spend longer amounts of time in a set place. However, it has its drawbacks—you’ll need to tend to unique requests and potentially difficult clients that you’ll likely work with on a recurring basis.
You can search for VIP flight attendant jobs on websites like AviationJobs and AviationCV.
VIP NannyPotential income: $68,000 – $200,000+ per year.
People may laugh at you when you tell them that you’re a professional nanny, but they won’t laugh once they look up your salary. High-profile parents are willing to pay large sums of money so that experienced nannies can watch their children.
To become a professional nanny, you’ll need to have CPR and First Aid certification along with a resume thick with experience and references. When applying for a VIP nanny position, you’ll have to go through an agency, such as VIPNannies.
The benefits of being a VIP nanny go beyond caring for children and the salary. You’ll often have access to free accommodation, meals, health care, vacation time, and traveling with the family.
Event CoordinatorPotential income: $40,000 – $85,000+ per year.
If planning is in your blood, being an event coordinator might be a great fit for you to jump into the international travel sphere. As an event coordinator, you can work for a company that will send you to locales throughout the world to run events, or you can run your own business.
Opportunities in the event planning space are immense—you may coordinate trade show events, travel conferences, or weddings. Event coordinators don’t need a degree to make a high salary, although experience in management, marketing, and sales is helpful.
You can start your search for event coordinator jobs on Indeed. Alternatively, if you’re thinking about starting your own business, Eventbrite’s blog will show you how to begin networking and finding clients.
Foreign Service ProfessionalPotential income: $45,000 – $694,000+ per year.
Foreign service agents work abroad on behalf of the United States. You can choose from several branches of the foreign service, according to your interest and experience. These include consular, economic, management, and political and public diplomacy.
Positions with the foreign service often last for a couple to a few years before you move on to a new country. As you would expect from a government job, you’ll receive excellent benefits, including paid holidays, health insurance, and sick leave. Additionally, they’ll give you a living allowance and retention incentives.
Ready to start your career in the foreign service? The U.S. Department of State is where you can see current job listings.
Luxury Travel AgentPotential income: $50,000 – $83,000+ per year.
Since you love to travel, starting a career where you plan other people’s trips could be a great option for you. Luxury travel agents design high-end trips to rich—and sometimes famous—clients. That could include setting up getaways to private islands, a yacht expedition around the world, and all-inclusive luxury resorts.
Planning a trip as a luxury travel agent means being able to respond to unique requests. Your clients might want to have a restaurant to themselves or arrive at an archeological site before it opens to the public, and they’ll rely on you to make it happen.
If you work for a travel agent company such as Virtuoso, you may receive a salary. Other travel agencies may offer a base salary or commission-only pay to their travel agents. You can also perform your own luxury travel agent work if you have the right connections.
In-Person English TeacherPotential income: $600 – $4,000+ per month.
Being an online English teacher is great for maximum travel flexibility but being an in-person English teacher is where the real money is. Asian and Middle Eastern countries are notorious for offering huge perks for qualified teachers who sign contracts with them.
To land one of these teaching jobs, you’ll need a TEFL certification, some experience under your belt, and the ability to commit to contracts that often average one year. In return, you may receive a free roundtrip flight to the host country, free accommodation, and meals in addition to your salary.
There is no shortage of places where you can search for online teaching jobs. Dave’s ESL Café, Tandem, and EF Education First are some great starting points.
GeologistPotential income: $92,000 – $117,000+ per year.
Geologists are one of those lesser-known kinds of travel jobs. You’ll need a degree to be a geologist, where you’ll learn to study the Earth’s development and analyze past and current geological trends.
Not all geologist work involves travel, so you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for government agencies, civil engendering companies, and oil companies who offer travel as part of the job. Being a traveling geologist requires a love for the outdoors, the ability to withstand harsh climates, and the possibility of rural living.
You can find international geology jobs on Indeed. You could even consider becoming a geology professor where you might lead international student geology trips.
Jobs With International TravelMaybe you’re the type that vacillates between enjoying being a homebody and traveling. In that case, choosing a job that involves part-time international travel could be a great match for you. Below are some great jobs involving travel to get you started.
AuditorPotential income: $43,000 – $83,000+ per year.
Auditing may not seem like the type of job that involves travel, but if you work for the right company, you could end up living for weeks or months at a time in different countries.
That said, don’t leave your current job for a career in auditing just yet—you’ll need to devote years to get a degree, and you need to make sure that you can handle the stress that often comes with the job. More often than not, you’ll need to get some experience working at local companies before you land a job that’ll have you traveling abroad.
Once you’ve prepped yourself for the auditing world, you can check out job boards like UNjobs and Audit International for international listings.
Yacht Crew MemberPotential income: $2,000 – $6,000+ per month, plus room and board.
Take one look at yacht job listings, and you’ll get a feel for how diverse they are. Yacht owners and companies that rent out charter yachts hire a crew that ranges from captains to chief engineers to chefs to masseuses and stewardesses.
As you can imagine, such jobs are competitive. To put your resume ahead of the crowd, consider undergoing STCW training, in addition to any other degrees and qualifications you’ll need for the position you apply for.
Yacht life isn’t for everyone, but those who embark in this field of work will enjoy free room and board along with frequently waking up to new destinations.
Seasonal EmploymentPotential income: Usually pays by the hour. Varies dramatically according to the country and job.
Seasonal employment is an umbrella term for anyone who works in a field that revolves around tourists. You can get jobs as tour guides, zip-lining instructors, and hiking expedition team members during the tourist season. However, it can also mean working at a restaurant that only hires during the high tourist season.
Whereas some people might balk at the job inconsistency that seasonal employment offers, others thrive off it. By being a seasonal employee, you can gain lots of references and always be in an area where the weather is ideal.
CoolWorks and Fruit Picking Jobs are great places to research seasonal employment opportunities.
Miscellaneous Travel JobsSometimes, jobs that pay you to travel don’t fit well into the categories we’ve discussed. They are just as great opportunities, though. So, check out the travel jobs below to see if any strike your fancy.
PerformerPotential income: $15+ per hour.
The performance industry can be a tough career to get into without connections, but if you have outstanding theater, drama, or dance skills, you stand a chance of being able to secure an international job.
Companies that hire performers include amusement parks, cruise ships, and summer camps. Often, these jobs are seasonal, allowing you to stock up on some cash before making your next move to a different part of the world.
Performers usually don’t receive high pay, but you could consider supplementing your work by doing street performances. You can check out Entertainers Worldwide and StagePool for job listings.
Freelance Travel WriterPotential income: $0.10 – $1.00 per word.
Combining travel and writing for those who enjoy putting words together is a wonderful way to make part or full-time income abroad.
Options for freelance employment include writing for blogs, newspapers, magazines, and guidebooks. You don’t need a degree to become a freelance writer, although having strong communication and editorial skills are a must. You should also have a portfolio showcasing your work; many people launch their first pieces via a personal blog.
Although your preference may be to write about travel, you’ll have more writing opportunities if you’re open to writing on other topics as well. There are loads of freelance writing opportunities out there—you can start by visiting sites such as Freelance Writing Jobs and Upwork.
Scuba Diving InstructorPotential income: $18,000 – $36,000 per year.
One of the best ways for nature enthusiasts loving an active lifestyle to earn a living abroad is by becoming a scuba diving instructor. That said, you need to be ready to put in some hard work to get to that point—PADI scuba diving instructors must undergo a minimum of 100 dives and pass numerous safety and technical tests.
Once you become a scuba diving instructor, though, the world literally becomes your oyster. Many scuba diving jobs are seasonal, so diving centers usually expect divers to work for limited periods of time before heading off to a different part of the world.
Being a scuba instructor won’t make you rich, and it involves long days and a lot of physical work. However, it’s a fulfilling type of job, and there are opportunities to specialize within the diving sector.
Skydiving InstructorPotential income: $46,000 – $62,000+ per year.
Being a skydiving instructor isn’t for everyone, but those who love the adrenaline rush that comes with jumping out of a plane will enjoy great compensation while globetrotting.
Understandably, there are strict conditions you must meet to become a USPA D License skydiving instructor. The most significant ones include a minimum of 500 skydives over the course of a minimum of three years.
Another factor to consider is the expense. You’ll need to pay for the practice skydives and certification courses, which will cost you thousands of dollars. You can find international skydive jobs on websites like The Wilds.
Day TradingPotential income: Negative to thousands per day.
It’s a risky business, but stock day trading is how some people make a living while traveling abroad. The advantages of day trading are numerous, including only having to hover around your computer when the stock market is open. That said, the best day traders use their free time when the stock market is closed to study up on companies that they want to invest in.
The biggest downside to day trading is that it’s high-risk; you could lose all your earnings in a day. Additionally, depending on where you’re at in the world, you might have to be up at strange hours if there’s a large time zone difference.
It’s best to find a mentor when you start your day trading endeavor and begin with a small investment. There are many resources out there to help you get started, such as Nerdwallet and Investopedia.
Got Your Suitcase Packed?As wonderful as travel jobs are, they have their downsides—like having to worry about sand getting stuck in your laptop if you’re working from the beach. Needless to say, we think anyone with the travel bug should give working and traveling a try. With many of the job options we covered, you’ll get to immerse yourself in the culture more than being a regular tourist. You’ll also get to try new food and be the envy of your friends and family back home.
May 19, 2021
47 Ideas For the Cheapest Ways to Travel the World
Want to learn how to travel cheap? You’re in the right place because I have a lot of advice for you today. Before we get into the cheapest ways to travel, though, there’s one thing I want to talk about.
By ALEX ESPINO Want to learn how to travel cheap? You’re in the right place because I have a lot of advice for you today. Before we get into the cheapest ways to travel, though, there’s one thing I want to talk about.
What Does It Mean To Travel Cheaply?This is the biggest question I have to answer here, and it’s hard because people have so many different answers for it.
For some travelers, traveling cheaply means taking economy seats instead of first-class, and staying at hotels that are merely good instead of great. For other people, taking a flight at all is too expensive, and camping is the cheapest way to spend a night.
The problem here is that it’s difficult to write a guide for how to travel cheap unless we establish a common baseline for what being cheap means for your budget. Worse, prices change all the time, so even trying to write a budget here would only result in something that goes out of date almost instantly.
With all that in mind, I’m going to show you how to travel cheap, save money, and get the most bang for your buck wherever you go.
Part One: DestinationsPart Two: IncomePart Three: Planning The TripPart Four: Managing Your MoneyPart Five: FlightsPart Six: LodgingPart Seven: FoodPart Eight: TransportationPart Nine: Entertainment And ActivitiesPart Ten: SuppliesFinal Thoughts
Part One: DestinationsPicking a destination is one of the biggest things that will affect your budget. Let’s look at how this plays out.
#1: Find Places With Affordable VisasMany countries require visas if you want to visit them on vacation, regardless of how you enter. For example, the United States offers tourism visas (often known as B-2’s), which normally cost around US$160 and involve filling out paperwork, attending an interview, getting a passport, and so on.
Costs for visas vary widely, and may even differ depending on your country of origin. The US State Department has a guide for entering other countries; if you’re not in the United States, look for your country’s equivalent.
Some areas may allow you to stay visa-free, assuming you meet any other criteria. For example, Japan allows people to stay for up to 90 days without a visa but has requirements like having a valid passport and a valid onward or return ticket for travel back out of the country.
#2: Understand Exchange RatesExchange rates change moment to moment, although rarely more than a small amount at a time. It’s generally easier to travel to places that have a weaker currency than your home country, which means you’ll be able to buy more with the same amount of cash.
Areas like southeastern Asia (including India), eastern Europe, and Central America typically have good exchange rates, so these are a good place to start looking if you want to travel but don’t have a specific region in mind.
#3: Stay In One RegionIn this context, a region is a few countries that are next to each other, and that you can travel between by land instead of air or sea. For example, you can often take trains between different countries in Europe.
Limiting each trip to one region of the world can cut down on travel costs and let you spend more of your budget on fun.
Alternatively, stay in one country for the whole trip. That’s hard to define as “traveling the world”, but it will allow you to spend far more time seeing your destinations and less time just passing through them.
#4: Budget For ActivitiesMany people who want to travel cheaply focus on the travel part of this equation, but less so on the prices for activities, food, and so on at the destination. That can wreck a tight budget, so it’s important to research the costs for each destination before you go there.
One way to help cut down on costs is focusing on tropical travel. Warm environments don’t require as much in the way of clothing and other basic survival supplies. This means you can pack fewer clothes and more of anything else you need, or even reduce the number of bags you need for the trip.
#5: City Tourism CardsThese aren’t available everywhere, but they are pretty common in most major destinations. Most city tourism cards give you either free or lower-cost entry to bigger attractions in the area, such as museums and galleries.
Some city tourism cards also include unlimited transportation by bus or subway systems. If you want to see a lot of attractions in a small area, these are often the most cost-effective way, especially if you can stay for at least a few days.
Rail passes are a national version of transportation cards and usually allow unlimited trips over a set period.
Part Two: IncomeTraveling the world cheaply gets a lot easier if you can make money no matter where you are. This works best if you don’t need to worry about time, but you can make money while traveling even if you’re only going for a week or two.
#6: Go Au PairAu pairs are live-in caregivers who stay with a family for a moderately extended period, usually 6 months to 1 year. Most au pairs help raise children and do some housekeeping. Unlike traditional live-in caregivers, this is more of a part-time role and you’ll get significant amounts of time off.
Availability for this position depends on culture. Some societies simply don’t hire strangers very often, although it’s somewhat easier in Europe. This is also easier for women, as most families look for female caregivers to raise children, although experienced male caregivers can also make it work.
#7: BartendingBartending is a skill that can make you money almost anywhere in the world. Experience with a wide variety of drinks is key here, as well as familiarity with the local language and buying habits.
Some bars will also hire for other roles, such as washing dishes or cleaning tables. Unsurprisingly, this job tends to be most common in larger cities. This isn’t as good a strategy for income if you want to visit rural areas or see things at night.
#8: Cruise Ship WorkThis is a much more structured role than other ways of earning income, but working on a cruise ship is an extremely good way to see the waters of the world and, in many cases, enjoy the sights of various destinations.
This pays better than most other options, but it also has longer hours, so don’t expect it to feel anything like a vacation. If nothing else, though, this is probably the best option for tight budgets because you’re getting paid to travel, rather than the other way around.
A similar role is being a yacht worker. This usually involves working close to a wealthy or famous person. It usually doesn’t pay as much as cruise ship work, but also tends to be less work while taking you to some truly gorgeous destinations.
#9: Write ArticlesWriting articles is a great way to earn money as long as you have a computer and internet access. There’s always demand for writing on the internet, and topics range from marketing and transcription to translating and more.
Best of all, you can get paid over the internet and it’s easy to convert that into local currency each time you arrive in a new area. You can even start writing as a side-job and get used to it months before you start your trip, then keep working throughout. Just don’t forget to do your taxes properly.
Part Three: Planning The TripPlanning a trip is the key to traveling cheaply. You can make spur-of-the-moment decisions, but expect that to cost you over time.
#10: Get A Travel AgentWhile hiring someone to help with your trip may sound like the opposite of traveling cheaply, the truth is that travel agents can save you a lot of money on complicated trips.
The main reason for this is that travel agents can offer insider deals that you can’t get elsewhere. Most of them have a near-encyclopedic knowledge of possible destinations that can fit your budget, and they coordinate with groups like airlines and hotel companies to get better rates.
The result is that you’ll often pay much less for a trip if you book it through a travel agent instead of taking care of everything yourself. The only reason to avoid a travel agent is if you want to go for ultra-low-cost travel, which means camping and foraging.
#11: Research PricesLocal prices vary, but knowing what things should cost is key to avoid getting ripped off. Prices can change within a few streets of popular destinations, so just minutes of walking can cut many expenses in half.
For example, Broadway in New York City is essentially a luxury destination for wealthy residents and travelers who want to enjoy the fine arts. All of the restaurants in that area have prices to match. Move out of the luxury area, though, and you’ll find prices that are far more reasonable for the area.
#12: Obtain Travel InsuranceTravel insurance is a key part of safe, affordable travel. Like travel agents, this can seem counterintuitive at first. After all, the point is to spend less money, right?
The problem is that you can’t predict every expense. Issues like sudden illnesses overseas can cost tens of thousands of dollars for travel and treatment, and you can’t pick and choose when things like that happen. Travel insurance is reasonably affordable and can protect you from many high-cost scenarios.
One of the best ways to get travel insurance is by doing a side-job like one of those described above before you go traveling. If you can pay for the entire cost of your travel insurance ahead of time, you won’t have to worry about the rest while you’re on the trip.
#13: Plan By NeighborhoodsCriss-crossing a city to reach destinations burns a lot of time. Instead, try to figure out every destination you want to visit in a particular area, then use a tool like Google Maps to create a custom route. You can plan how long you want to stay in each area, or simply list them in order and go through them at your own pace.
A good plan for seeing the area can save you hours each day, so the more you plan ahead, the easier it will be.
#14: Know Your PrioritiesWhat do you want to do on your trip? Some people enjoy visiting tourist attractions while others enjoy trying local foods or going camping out in the wilderness.
Knowing your priorities can help you save money by identifying areas where you can be frugal and areas where you’ll want to spend more. I recommend having one high-priority objective and one medium-priority thing to do.
As an example, a Food Tour of Europe is very different from a Trip Across Europe. Knowing you want to eat different foods can help you figure out which cities to go to, which restaurants to visit, and even how you want to travel between each area.
The reason to have a medium-priority goal is that it offers some variety on your trip. Just traveling, eating at a restaurant, going to a hotel, and repeating in a cycle could get pretty old, pretty fast. Detours help keep things fresh and exciting.
#15: Pick Your Travel SeasonThe best times to travel cheaply are known as the low season and the shoulder season. The shoulder season is between the low and high seasons when crowds are getting bigger but aren’t yet at the maximum capacity.
Traveling during the quieter times of the year can save you quite a lot on airfare and hotel costs, but it also means you’re limited in when you can go. That means you might not get to enjoy the bright summer sun or certain local festivals.
Part Four: Managing Your MoneyManaging money once you arrive is another key part of traveling cheaply. This helps ensure you can get the most from your cash without risking the rest of your trip.
#16: Get A Credit Card With NoForeign Transaction Fees
Seriously, you don’t want to pay a foreign transaction fee every single time you use a credit card. Those costs add up quickly.
However, you do want to use a credit card in the first place. Credit cards offer significant account protections while you’re traveling, including fraud prevention and reimbursement options that you may not have with debit cards or travelers’ checks. Just make sure to tell your card provider when you plan to start traveling.
If you plan to travel regularly, you might be able to get additional rewards for using your credit card. That’s not reducing your costs, exactly, but reimbursements and rewards can help lessen the overall cost of traveling.
#17: Withdraw Money From ATMsThis works best if you have an account that lets you avoid ATM fees worldwide, either by not having them at all or by getting reimbursed for them.
In most cases, ATMs let you withdraw in the local currency without having to pay the extra costs for exchanging cash. Exchange services always have a fee because that’s how they make their money, so the more you can avoid those fees, the better.
#18: Use A Money-Tracking AppMoney-tracking apps let you know how much you’re spending each day and can help you stay within your budget for travel. It’s easy to have small extra costs and fees snowball into bigger expenses when you’re traveling, so using modern technology can help you keep all of these expenses over control.
#19: Claim RefundsDid you know you can get refunds on some taxes you pay while traveling? It’s true! Many countries don’t require foreigners to pay certain fees and taxes, so you’re eligible for a reimbursement if you file a claim before leaving. This can end up saving you a lot of money.
Claim Compass has a great guide for claiming VAT refunds when you’re leaving the EU. The value-added tax can go as high as 20% in some areas, and it’s particularly applicable to larger purchases.
Similar rules may be in effect in other areas. The key point to keep in mind here is that if you’re leaving the tax area with something you bought, you’re technically exporting that product, and most products sold for export follow different tax rules.
Make sure to verify that you won’t get charged for bringing something in as part of your trip, though. That can be a nasty hiccup in some countries. Nations usually have guidelines for what you can bring in while traveling.
Alternatively, you can contact embassies in the nation you plan to visit. They can usually provide a lot of information on import-export issues and associated fees.
#20: Find Deal SitesThis is something most people already know, but I’m including it here for the sake of completion. Deal sites can help you find discounts on lodging, food, rentals, sightseeing, and more. In some cases, you can reduce these all the way down to free, which is great if you’re on a particularly tight budget.
One thing to keep an eye on is private camping opportunities. These can let you camp in areas where you’re not normally allowed to, such as inner-city areas, and often at a much lower price than you’d pay anywhere else.
Part Five: FlightsFlights are a key part of most international travel, or even within a country in some areas.
#21: Get A Good Travel CardA travel credit card can earn you bonus points for using it on flights, hotel stays, and other international purchases. Combine this with no-fee exchanges and lower rates and you’ve got a reliable tool for making payments almost anywhere in the world.
Travel cards have a wide variety of policies for rewards, and there are too many for me to go into here. However, there are a few common things to look for.
The biggest bit is looking for ways to maximize the points you earn on regular purchases to save up points and get rewards before your trip. If you earn enough points, you might be able to get free flights to and from your destination. That can save hundreds of dollars, mostly through things you were buying anyway, and it’s a top way to cut expenses for travel.
#22: Book At The Best TimesSkyscanner is one of the best ways to find cheaper flights and, more importantly, they track information from over a thousand sources. They also have a recently-updated guide for finding the best times to book flights.
Certain months, including January, March, July, August, and September, are often lower than other times of the year. Even changing which day of the week you book on can save you money. They recommend booking several weeks in advance of your trip, rather than buying at the last minute.
#23: Use The Cheap SeatsIt’s obvious that an economy-class seat for an early-morning flight will cost much less than a first-class seat on a comfortable afternoon flight. You can save a lot of money if you’re willing to set aside the luxuries while you travel.
Personally, I’m happy with economy seats on most flights up to six hours, although it can get a little rough if you’re doing a long international flight and staying on the plane for twelve hours or more.
Noise-canceling headphones are particularly useful here, and they’re even more so when you can plug them in and watch movies or television on one of the plane screens. Those may have small costs associated with them, but if you’re already saving a lot of money by getting a cheaper seat at a specific time, there’s room in the budget for fun here.
#24: Consider Getting Two One-Way TicketsSometimes, getting two one-way tickets is cheaper than getting a single round-trip ticket. Round-trip tickets may have restrictions on when you can use them, such as going back exactly one week after, whereas one-way tickets can let you change to a cheaper airline traveling from your destination.
Try to be flexible with your airport choices, too. Sometimes taking a bus from the airport to your destination is cheaper than flying to a closer airport that’s right at the place you want to be. Don’t hesitate to check your options. If you have the time to spend, you could end up saving dozens or hundreds of dollars this way.
#25: Get BumpedBumping occurs when airplanes sell more tickets than they have seats and too many people show up to the plane, or when there’s a special situation like needing to provide a seat for a Federal Air Marshal.
While you can’t predict exactly when this will happen, it’s much more common if you’re flying from a busy airport at a busier time. Airplane companies usually offer vouchers or other incentives that can be worth hundreds of dollars for each bump, and you can often catch the next available flight to your destination if you’re willing to wait.
If you want to take advantage of this process, talk to the agents at the desk when you check-in and let them know you’re willing to volunteer. You can often earn extra points if you have a card with that airline or even free flights instead of cash.
#26: Use Free StopoversA stopover is essentially an extended layover, and some airline companies are willing to let you take them with no change in your ticket price. Here’s how it works.
Layovers are waiting periods when you need to change planes to complete a trip. Layovers are usually less than four hours for domestic flights and less than 24 hours for international flights.
A stopover is when you’re waiting longer than this period between flights. For example, you might be able to stay two or three days in one city before taking the second part of your flight and continuing to your final destination. If you wait too long, companies will sell it as a separate flight instead, so there are limits to this.
However, stopovers are a pretty easy way to increase the number of destinations you can visit on a trip, especially if you don’t have to worry about deadlines or getting back at a specific time. You’ll still need to find food and lodging, but otherwise, it’s almost a free trip.
#27: Use Budget Airlines (Carefully)Budget airlines are often a good way to save money but could be more uncomfortable than economy seats with different airlines. The important thing here is to read the fine print and know what you’ll be getting.
Keep an eye on baggage pricing. Most budget airlines do not include the cost of anything except a carry-on in their basic price, so if you need to bring more bags, you’ll be paying more out-of-pocket and won’t get the actual budget advantage here.
This is basically an extension of using cheap seats, and it follows the same philosophy. You can save a lot of money if you’re willing to put up with inconvenience during your travels.
Part Six: LodgingLodging is the second thing most people look at to save money, right after airfare. Here’s what to pay attention to when you’re trying to keep costs as low as possible.
#28: Know What You’re GettingHotels and other lodging areas are not created equally. Some offer meals and drinks, others don’t. Some provide kitchens where you can make your own meals, breakfasts, free internet access, airport transfers, and more.
The key here is to figure out what’s important to you in your lodging and what you can do without. In most cases, meals at the hotel are more expensive than buying local food and cooking for yourself.
Beyond pricing, though, you should also look at where your lodging is. It might be worth spending more on a hotel if it means you’re an hour closer to everything you want to do. Transportation costs can eat away at any savings you get for a cheaper hotel, so location matters almost as much as the cover price.
#29: Consider Alternative LodgingAlternative lodging arrangements cover a wide variety of options, but here are some of the most common ones.
One of the best alternatives is staying the night with friends who live in other countries. This can drop your lodging costs to little or nothing and often comes with people willing to be tour guides and spend time with you during your trip. Making friends in other countries can be hard, but you can do it online.
Another option for alternative lodging is house swapping. This is when you borrow one person’s house and let them sleep in yours. Naturally, the better your lodging is, the easier this will be to do. However, you can manage this even with relatively basic housing if you have a good location.
House swapping does require some measure of trust, though. It’s best to limit your search to friends of friends. People are much less likely to cause problems if they have a personal stake in things.
Some nations have special housing options for travelers. For example, Japan created capsule hotels, which are essentially bed-sized rooms with minimal accommodations, but rock-bottom prices to match. These are showing up in other places around the world, too.
(As a bonus, capsule hotels are among the most structurally sound options in earthquake-prone Japan. They have so many internal reinforcements between pods that they can survive things other buildings couldn’t. Safety and affordability make for an attractive combination.)
Depending on where you go, you might find lodgings like yurts, hostels, cabins, and more. These offer very different experiences from traditional hotels, and they’re often cheaper as well.
#30: Go CampingIf you enjoy hiking and living outdoors, you can try camping at your destinations instead of getting traditional lodging. However, this often requires a lot of gear and equipment, so expect to see your flight costs go up. Camping gets more viable the longer you stay in a particular area.
Costs for camping can vary, though. You might be able to set up somewhere outside of a city, but you can also look for regulated camping grounds or even private camping opportunities.
#31: Travel In GroupsThere’s nothing quite like traveling at your own pace, but everything is more affordable when you split it with companions. Larger groups may even be eligible for group discounts, which can further reduce the amount each of you pays.
I particularly like this for some luxury destinations that are too expensive to get alone. For example, there are many castles in Europe that you can rent for a little while. Arranging for a group rental could reduce the cost to you to 5% or less of the full booking price, which means you can visit places you could never afford otherwise.
#32: Long-Term Stay OptionsIf you want to stay in an area for a while, apartments are often cheaper and more comfortable than hotels for extended stays. Apartments won’t be as cheap as camping in the wilderness, but they will be considerably safer in most areas.
You can also look into co-living options, where you can stay with one or more other people for extended periods. These can be more affordable than renting apartments.
#33: VolunteerVolunteering is an interesting way to get accommodation. This is more work-oriented than other strategies, but it’s also quite effective for seeing places you might not visit otherwise.
Volunteering opportunities can range from helping at local schools to staying on a farm or a ship. In most cases, food and lodging are included, though you may have to provide your own accommodations.
Many volunteer opportunities are mission-focused. These can range from religious visits to providing humanitarian aid. If the need is particularly important, you might be able to get sponsors and cut your costs down to practically nothing.
While anyone can apply for this role, it’s better if you have useful or relevant skills. Teachers and healthcare workers are relatively valuable, but physical strength alone can be helpful if you’re providing disaster relief or similar help.
Part Seven: FoodEveryone needs to eat. Knowing how to eat well for cheap can make the difference between a costly trip and an affordable one.
#34: Eat Where The Locals DoNobody knows where to find better deals than the locals. In most cases, these places won’t be in travel guides or get highlighted online. Some may not even have websites.
However, looking for local food stores often means you can find far more options than restaurants offer, and at a fraction of the price. This gets even easier if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen that you can use.
Local food stores also have the benefit of letting you experience more of local cultures. This works best if you have experience making your own food, but you can get by with prepackaged food sold in local stores.
It can be hard to tell what you’re buying in some areas, though. Some smartphones have apps that can translate text for you and give you a much better sense of what you’re looking at. Don’t hesitate to download and use those as needed.
#35: Try Street FoodStreet food is usually affordable for its area because it’s fast and casual, unlike the expensive sit-down restaurants. Street food also tends to have stronger flavoring, which is great if you enjoy that.
However, the real reason I recommend this aside from the low cost is the way it can help you save time on your trip. There’s too much else to do on most trips around the world unless you’re specifically focusing on eating, so the less time you need to spend waiting around, the better.
#36: Avoid AlcoholSipping a nice wine while you’re relaxing on the beach on a pleasantly warm evening sounds like a great time, but it’s better to totally avoid alcohol on most trips. (Unless you’re bartending, anyway, but that’s different.)
Alcohol can lead you into trouble when you’re far away from home, and worse, the price can add up quickly if you’re drinking all the time. If you can’t totally go without, try having just a small amount of alcohol before bed to prevent withdrawals and focus on enjoying your days sober.
#37: Limit Your OrdersThis one is harder than it looks. It’s easy to fall prey to the fear of missing out when you’re only in a country for a few days and don’t know if you’ll ever return. With that kind of pressure, it can literally be now or never for some foods.
However, ordering too much food increases costs and might not even let you finish everything. That doesn’t help your situation because you’re still missing out, so there’s no sense in trying to order everything on the menu.
If you truly want to experience different foods, try looking for restaurants that have sample platters. These can be a more rational and affordable way of trying many different local specialties.
Alternatively, if you’re traveling with a group, order your meals buffet style so everyone can get a little of many different dishes. This can keep everyone fed for a reasonable price while still letting you enjoy the full variety of cuisine available in that nation.
#38: Bring SnacksSpecifically, bring healthy, filling snacks that won’t go bad easily and don’t take up too much space. Protein bars are a good choice for this. Having a light snack when you’re hungry is better than visiting a restaurant or cooking at your lodgings for every meal and can save you quite a lot of money over the course of your trip.
Try to avoid perishable foods like fruits unless you plan to consume them immediately. These foods can be harder to take across national borders, but inspectors will rarely look twice if you’re carrying well-packaged foods that aren’t a risk for introducing new species.
(If that sounds like a weird thing to worry about, remember that people often bring invasive species to new areas by accident. Something as simple as a seed can end up causing a lot of ecological damage, so nations can be quite strict about this.)
Part Eight: TransportationYou can’t travel the world if you can’t travel at all. Understanding your transportation options beyond the airplane is another important part of a frugal journey.
#39: Give Yourself Lots Of Extra TimeIt’s easy to try and schedule things so you can see as much as possible, but in practice, it’s hard to follow schedules like that. Worse, it’s hard to enjoy yourself if you’re constantly looking at the clock and counting down the time until you have to leave.
Rushing can be expensive, too. It’s easy to fall into the temptation of ordering an expensive taxi “just this once”, but that can snowball because of an increasing fear of missing out.
It’s better to stop this problem before it starts, and the best way to do that is by giving yourself enough time between activities so that you can enjoy them and visit each new thing with a comfortable margin of error.
#40: Know Your Transportation OptionsOptions for getting around vary throughout the world. You may be able to use planes, rental cars, ferries, or more to get around. Japan famously has both above-ground and underground rail options that can get you almost anywhere in their cities in short order. Larger nations like the United States, on the other hand, could require days of travel.
Overnight trains are a good way to save money on lodging. These usually include a sleeping area as part of the package, but without an excessive cost associated with it. Saving money and reducing the time needed to reach and use lodging is always great in my book.
Alternatively, in some areas, you can rent a camper van. These are similar to motorhomes but usually smaller in size, capable of housing several people in reasonable comfort on longer journeys. You’ll spend a fair bit on gas, but since you won’t need to buy lodging elsewhere, they’re not as expensive as they can seem at first glance.
Try using apps or websites to look up transportation options in each area well before you get there. It’s much easier to plan your trip when you know what your options are.
#41: Try To Use Public TransportationPublic transportation is usually quite affordable compared to other options, though this is at the expense of having essentially no control over the exact destination. However, the low price isn’t the only reason I recommend this.
To put it simply, driving in other countries is hard. Aside from possibly using vehicles you’re totally unfamiliar with, other nations can have completely different regulations for their roads. Trying to follow the laws you know can result in breaking local laws, leading to fines or even jail time for something particularly egregious.
Public transportation neatly avoids these problems. The drivers know what to expect from local traffic, and the transportation itself is more-or-less predictable. Schedules may slip a little here and there, but frankly, that’s a small thing to worry about if you’re giving yourself the extra time I suggested earlier.
Part Nine: Entertainment And ActivitiesWhat’s the point of traveling if you can’t enjoy yourself? Knowing how to get the most from all of your activities is crucial to each trip.
#42: Learn How To HaggleHaggling is a time-honored art in some parts of the world, but not in others. In the United States, for example, most prices are fixed and you’ll just get weird looks if you try to bargain. In other areas, nobody actually expects you to pay the sticker price and might laugh behind your back if you do.
The guide linked to above goes into more detail on this, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you want to start haggling.
First, determine if you can haggle at all. The best way to do this is by researching the local culture and seeing if it’s common, but if not, you can ask a few leading questions and hint that the price is too high. If a shopkeeper makes any sort of lower offer, haggling is acceptable.
Any place with unpriced items probably allows haggling and may have different prices. Try to find out the real price that locals pay and use that as a starting point. Don’t feel bad about paying a bit more than locals do, though. Merchants are more likely to price high if you look rich, so dressing casually can help you save money.
Don’t forget to try and figure out the real value of the item, either. Most pricing is basically arbitrary to begin with, so people may price things artificially high to make you feel like you’ve gotten a good deal.
Finally, remember that haggling is a negotiation on price, not a fight. Merchants are people trying to make a living, so don’t try to push them towards anything ridiculous or you may find all of the locals shutting you out. Remember, if either of you accepts the other’s offer, the haggling is over and that’s what you should pay.
#43: Know The Activities In The AreaMore importantly, know how much each of those activities costs. Many places have free activities that you can go through at your own pace, such as walking tours of city districts.
Many activities aren’t easy to find online, though, so take a look around coffee shops or anywhere else with a community board. These can help you find activities to do in your area. Remember that guides at hotels and other places are mainly for paid tourism, so you won’t get many good deals there.
The main problem with this strategy is that it only works if you can read the local language. If you only speak English and you’re visiting India, for example, it might be harder to find activities locally.
#44: Look At Official Tourism SitesMany cities and countries have official tourism websites that contain a lot of information on the area. This includes notable attractions, restaurants, festivals, and more. Better yet, these are run by the government, and they can also have information on free programs and initiatives.
Tourism websites are a good place to go even if you don’t plan to use them for scheduling activities. This is because they tend to have information on public transportation options and helpful purchases you can make, such as all-access passes.
#45: Inquire With Local EmbassiesEmbassies are particularly good sources of information on activities and entertainment. They often have ties to local governments and might be able to offer special passes or discounts on certain things.
Even better, embassies often have a lot of experience in knowing what visitors consider fun, where you can go to save money, and what sorts of things you might not find on the internet. Embassies can also help warn you about any specific dangers in the area.
Consulates are essentially the same thing as embassies, but smaller in size. They’re equivalent to the branch offices of a company, whereas a proper embassy is a headquarters.
Some countries don’t have embassies in certain destinations. In these cases, you may be able to find an embassy from an allied nation that can help you instead. Most embassies are willing to provide basic information and support to anyone who asks, so don’t hesitate to write an email or call ahead if you want to get help.
Part Ten: SuppliesHow many supplies you can take depends on what you’re willing to spend, but chances are you’ll want at least one backpack of stuff.
#46: Get Travel CleanersLaundry charges can get expensive over longer trips. Travel cleaners, including some types of soap, are more than good enough to wash most of your clothes and you can get them at a fraction of the price. The downside is that you’ll need to spend time cleaning them, but if you can let things dry when you’re out for the day, even that’s not a big deal.
#47: Take Advantage Of Sales On Travel GearMost companies have sales throughout the year, and this is a great way to save money while planning ahead for trips. Try to buy at least mid-range brands whenever possible. One backpack that lasts a long time is better than three backpacks that break quickly.
Final ThoughtsAs you can see, there are countless ways to save money while traveling the world. They range from the time-consuming and energy-intensive (like working on cruise lines) to casual savings on small tasks, but they add up quickly.
Realistically, you can save hundreds to thousands of dollars on many trips if you’re willing to put in some time and effort. Not every trick is suitable for every trip, but the more you know about your options, the easier it is to find other ways to save.
Finally, try to make a habit of implementing these strategies before your trip. If you can do many of them in your daily life, you can save up money for your trip that much faster.
Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
When you’re planning your next adventure, there are so many exciting details that go into arranging the perfect trip. From brainstorming your itinerary to hunting for once-in-a-lifetime deals to learning more about the areas you’re traveling to, planning your travels is a fun part of the trip, and it helps build the excitement for the adventure to come.
By ALEX ESPINO When you’re planning your next adventure, there are so many exciting details that go into arranging the perfect trip. From brainstorming your itinerary to hunting for once-in-a-lifetime deals to learning more about the areas you’re traveling to, planning your travels is a fun part of the trip, and it helps build the excitement for the adventure to come.
Notice how we didn’t mention shopping for travel insurance as one of the awesome parts of trip planning? Travel insurance can be expensive, you probably won’t need it, and it’s money you could easily spend on a night in the town or a once-in-a-lifetime experience during your trip.
So, that means you should save time and money and skip travel insurance, right? Not exactly. In fact, that’s probably the last thing you should do.
Flights and reservations get canceled. Accidents happen. Emergencies arise. The only thing worse than having your trip ruined by unforeseen circumstances is losing thousands of dollars in the process.
Read on as we discuss the pros and cons of purchasing travel insurance, the ins and outs of what it covers, and any other facts you’ll need to know to answer the question is travel insurance worth it for me.
What is Travel Insurance?What Does Travel Insurance Cover?What Isn’t Covered By Travel Insurance?When to Avoid Travel InsuranceWhen is Travel Insurance Worth It?Types of CoverageWhere to Purchase Travel InsuranceTop Travel Insurance ProvidersAlternatives to Travel InsuranceWhy is Travel Insurance Worth it? Peace of Mind and Protection What is Travel Insurance?Travel insurance is a supplemental insurance plan that protects you from some of the inherent financial and personal risks of travel. Insurance may cover minor inconveniences, like a late or lost suitcase, as well as significant issues, such as a last-minute cancellation, or an emergency in a foreign country.
Besides insulating you from potential financial and health risks while traveling, insurance also provides you with access to emergency services that can make it much easier for you to navigate unforeseen situations while on vacation.
Depending on your insurance, your plan may provide you with access to travel and medical professionals available day and night to assist with any issues. Services they offer may include medical care, consultations, logistical support such as translation or helping to replace a stolen passport, and more.
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?Like other types of insurance, what your policy covers and the extent to which you’re covered can vary significantly. As you’d imagine, more affordable coverage typically offers fewer benefits than expensive plans that are more comprehensive.
Regardless of the policy you choose, travel insurance offers three types of protection. A travel insurance policy protects you, your belongings, and your trip experiences.
HealthcarePerhaps most importantly, traveler’s insurance offers medical coverage to protect you in an emergency. Coverage includes medical treatment, transportation to receive treatment, and may include insurance against death or dismemberment.
Depending on the policy, the coverage may be primary or secondary. Primary insurance is the first policy billed by the care provider, while secondary insurance works as a supplement. All bills will first go through your primary provider, so any co-pays or deductibles can be applied. The balance of the bill is paid by the secondary insurance up to your coverage amount.
For travelers with pre-existing medical conditions, pay close attention when shopping for a policy, as many don’t offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. Some policies do extend coverage to pre-existing conditions, provided that you purchase your policy within 15 days of booking your trip.
Personal BelongingsAnother significant benefit of travelers insurance is protection for your belongings if your luggage is lost or stolen. Most plans offer fairly comprehensive coverage for your personal effects; where they differ is in how easy it is to file a claim and receive reimbursement.
Top insurance plans will reimburse you for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage while you’re on your trip with very few hoops to jump through. This way, you’re not stuck in a foreign country with little more than the shirt on your back. You’ll be compensated for your lost or stolen goods in short order, so you can purchase replacement items during your trip.
More affordable plans may offer similar coverage for your belongings, but filing a claim is a more involved process. Cheap insurance plans commonly require you to submit an itemized list of lost or stolen items after you return from your trip, and some companies require you to submit original receipts for the lost items.
Excursions and ExperiencesTravel insurance also protects if circumstances force you to cancel your entire trip, a portion of your trip, or excursions and experiences you had planned as part of your trip.
If you’re forced to cancel your entire trip because of a covered reason, your insurance policy will reimburse you for the non-refundable costs you’ve already incurred in the booking. If you’re forced to return home early because of an emergency, your coverage may also reimburse you for the portion of your trip you’re forced to abandon.
Many plans also provide significant benefits if a travel delay forces you to make changes to your plans. Say you miss a connection, or a flight delay forces you to cancel an excursion you’ve booked. Your insurance plan may cover lodging, transportation, and activity costs.
Many travelers purchase insurance coverage for their air travel along with their flight, but it’s also offered as a supplement to many standalone travel policies. With air travel coverage, you’ll be compensated if your flight is delayed for any reason, or if you miss a connection.
Additional BenefitsBeyond protecting your health, belongings, and your trip, travel insurers also offer a helpline that you can call into for emergency services while on your trip. When something goes wrong far from home, it can be helpful to have a team on your side to help you navigate through the problem.
It’s common for fairly minor inconveniences to occur during your trip, and when you’re far from home in a foreign country, it’s easy for that minor issue to snowball into a major problem. A dedicated service number comes in handy more often than you’d think, and they can help you sort out lost documentation, help with paperwork, provide translation services, and more.
CFARIt’s common for a travel insurance policy to offer a CFAR policy add-on, which stands for Cancel For Any Reason. A CFAR add-on can be a bit pricey, but it provides unprecedented coverage should you decide to cancel your trip. CFAR add-ons usually pay around 75% of your trip costs, and they allow you to cancel the trip for literally any reason.
What Isn’t Covered By Travel Insurance?While travel insurance is fairly comprehensive, the terms of your agreement will dictate certain events or situations that won’t be covered by your travel insurance. What a provider omits from coverage will vary depending on the company, and the level of coverage your plan provides.
We discussed pre-existing conditions above, which are the most common exclusions from traveler’s insurance. But, less obvious situations may also be excluded from travel insurance. For example, if you plan on skydiving or climbing a mountain while on vacation, don’t expect your travel insurance to cover you if you’re injured or killed during the activity.
Many plans also restrict coverage if it’s determined that your claim occurred as a result of drugs or alcohol, or if you’re traveling somewhere for medical reasons, such as elective surgery. You’ll also see that many insurance providers restrict coverage to certain countries that are deemed to be more dangerous for travelers.
CoronavirusThe Covid-19 pandemic has turned the world on its head, and it’s made travel more difficult and dangerous for everyone. The pandemic is unprecedented, and for travel insurance providers, much of the playbook on navigating the pandemic is still being written.
Some providers exclude coronavirus completely from coverage. This means your travel insurance will not cover costs incurred as the result of contracting coronavirus while on vacation, or if you’re forced to cancel a trip because you contracted coronavirus before you leave.
When to Avoid Travel InsuranceWhile accidents and illnesses can wreak havoc on any trip at any time, there are many instances where the costs of travel insurance aren’t worth the potential benefits.
If you’re traveling domestically, you’ll need to carefully weigh whether or not travel insurance is worth it. If you already have health insurance, you’ll be covered through your current insurance in the event of an emergency.
Most hotels and airlines allow you to purchase trip protection at a lower rate than a comprehensive insurance policy, and you can buy ala carte coverage to protect yourself from cancellations or delays. The insurance offered by a hotel or airline may also cover your belongings if anything is lost or stolen.
Or, if you’re taking a particularly inexpensive trip, it may not be worth taking any insurance at all. If the greatest risk is losing the money you spend on a discounted flight or a cheap hotel stay, you may be better off rolling the dice with no insurance.
When is Travel Insurance Worth It?Unless you’re traveling domestically or the trip you’re taking is inexpensive, it’s almost always a wise choice to carry travel insurance. Even if you never file a claim, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind knowing that you’re protected should anything go wrong with your trip.
Many travelers look at travel insurance as something that will reimburse them if they have to cancel their trip, but the benefits insurance provides are more crucial than that. In the grand scheme of things, reimbursing you for the few thousand dollars you’d lose missing your trip pales in comparison to the health and safety benefits of travel insurance.
While you or your loved ones will probably never require medical attention while you’re traveling, the costs of a visit to a foreign hospital without health insurance can be exceptionally high, even for a relatively minor visit. A more serious medical emergency could be a crippling blow to your finances.
When you consider worst-case scenarios, the cost of travel insurance is a sound investment for any traveler.
Types of CoverageTravel insurance providers offer various types of coverage to suit the needs of different travelers. Virtually any policy allows you to select coverage for an individual or a family. Policies are available to cover a single trip or multiple trips, and there are also annual policies available for frequent travelers who take multiple trips each year.
The most expensive policy will always be one that provides comprehensive coverage for a single trip. The total cost of a plan that covers multiple trips or an annual plan will be more expensive. Still, it’s less costly in the long run because you’ll be covered across each trip you take.
Where to Purchase Travel InsurancePurchasing travel insurance is a straightforward process, and there are several different ways you can obtain coverage. Depending on how you booked your trip, it’s likely you can add your insurance at the time of booking. If you’re booking through a travel agent or a service such as Expedia, you can purchase your coverage when you book the trip.
If you’re booking coverage after your trip is purchased, there are a few options for insuring your trip. You can buy insurance directly from a provider, or you can use an aggregator like Insuremytrip. Aggregators search for the best rates from over twenty travel insurance providers.
It’s crucial to remember that insurance coverage for travelers is time-sensitive. Most providers allow you to purchase your insurance coverage within 15 days of booking your trip. After that period, you’ll find it challenging to find insurance for your trip.
Top Travel Insurance ProvidersThere are many providers you’ll come across when shopping for travel insurance. Here are a handful of the most reputable companies in the business.
IMGIMG is perhaps the largest travel insurance provider, and they offer an impressive array of different insurance plans. The selection is ideal for travelers who want to pick and choose plan benefits to keep their insurance costs low.
They also offer general health insurance policies for ex-pats and people traveling to another country for work reasons.
SafetyWingSafetyWing is among the most affordable and straightforward insurance providers. If you’re on a budget or you’re looking for comprehensive coverage as fast as possible, SafetyWing could be ideal for you.
SafetyWing provides travel and health benefits from as low as $10 per week, and they also extend coverage to one child under 10 for each parent traveling.
SafetyWing’s coverage is reasonably comprehensive for any traveler under the age of 65, and they also provide coverage for coronavirus. Insurance is also available for travelers as old as 84, but the premiums are more expensive.
MedJetMedJet offers comprehensive medical insurance for overseas and domestic travelers, and they offer annual plans and short-term options that cover you from 8-30 days. For medical transportation, MedJet is second to none.
MedJet offers two different plans, MedJet Assist, which offers comprehensive health coverage for individuals under 75 years old. MedJet Horizon provides the same extensive health benefits while also providing travel security, evacuation, and crisis response services in the event of a worst-case scenario on your trip.
TravelexTravelex is a well-known travel insurance provider that offers two different insurance tiers to suit the needs of all travelers. Both the Basic and Select packages provide similar benefits, with the Select package providing larger payouts or more flexible terms. Travelex also has a domestic option for travelers staying inside the United States.
Travel Insurance AggregatorsWhile the companies above represent some of the most popular travel insurance options, you may be able to save money by purchasing your insurance through an aggregator site such as InsureMyTrip or SquareMouth.
These sites are similar to booking sites for trips, except instead of planning for a vacation, they show you different insurance options. Tell them when you’re going and where, and they provide real-time quotes from a broad selection of providers, with dozens of policies from which to choose.
Alternatives to Travel InsuranceTravel insurance is the most effective way to protect yourself from trip cancelations, interruptions, or emergencies. But, many credit cards offer travel benefits that may provide sufficient protection for your trip at no additional cost to you. All you’ll need to do is use that credit card to pay for the trip and you’re protected.
Credit card travel benefits won’t provide you with any protection against medical emergencies. But, many cards offer significant benefits for unforeseen circumstances that interrupt your trip or force you to cancel it. Many travel cards also offer compensation if your checked luggage is lost or stolen.
Why is Travel Insurance Worth it? Peace of Mind and ProtectionWhen it comes to travel insurance, it’s impossible to put a price on the peace of mind that travel protection provides. Whether you’re traveling by yourself or enjoying a relaxing vacation with your family, travel insurance allows you to worry less about the what-ifs so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Whether you opt for single trip insurance, an annual plan, or if you’re relying on travel protection from a credit card, be sure to plan for all scenarios when creating your itinerary. Most importantly, enjoy your trip!
May 16, 2021
Best Time to Visit Japan
For travel enthusiasts, Japan is a bucket-list destination. With budding cherry blossoms and high-spirited festivals, there is no bad time to visit Japan. However, this does make choosing the best time of year to travel challenging and maybe even overwhelming.
By ALEX ESPINO For travel enthusiasts, Japan is a bucket-list destination. With budding cherry blossoms and high-spirited festivals, there is no bad time to visit Japan. However, this does make choosing the best time of year to travel challenging and maybe even overwhelming.
Japan features four distinct seasons, each boasting its own exclusive sights, events, interests, and other special highlights. And as with any tourist destination, there are peak travel seasons, which cause airfares and hotels to spike in price.
In 2019, approximately 15.2 million people traveled to Japan. Throughout each year, tourism varies from month to month, depending on local attractions and events happening at that time.
However, with the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the upcoming 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, travel has become much more restricted, and tourists are looking to stay away from large crowds.
In this article, we’ll delve into the best—and safest—times of year to travel to Japan, depending on your style and interests.
Understanding Japan’s GeographyFirst, we must understand the distinct regions of Japan and how they differ from one another. Choosing the best time to visit Japan largely depends on where you want to go.
While Japan isn’t exactly a large country, the island’s geography is spread over 2,300 miles from north to south, stretching over 147,100 total square miles (comparable to the size of California or Germany).
With such a large distance, the weather varies from region to region. From the frigid regions of Hokkaido to the subtropical island of Okinawa, you can either enjoy the ski resorts and hot springs or spend a warm day at the beach.
In the areas in between—like Tokyo and Kyoto—the weather tends to be less extreme.
It’s also important to consider the fact that Japan is a particularly mountainous island. Using common sense, you’ll discover chilly temperatures when you travel to higher elevations.
Several continental plates meet in the region of Japan, which results in frequent earthquakes year-round. For this same geographical reason, the country experiences many natural hot springs and volcanoes. Mt.Fuji, Japan’s most famous volcano and highest mountain, is a famous tourist destination.
Technically, Japan is made up of thousands of islands, but the largest and most notable are Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku, and Honshu.
HokkaidoHokkaido (translates to “Northern Sea Circuit”) is Japan’s second-largest and least developed of the country’s four major islands.
While the summer doesn’t get as humid as other islands of Japan, Hokkaido’s winter months are particularly frigid with large amounts of snowfall, frozen seas, and below zero temperatures.
With its untouched natural beauty, rural landscapes, and national parks, Hokkaido attracts many outdoor enthusiasts—from snowboarders and skiers in the colder months to campers, cyclists, and hikers in the warmer months.
KyushuLocated southwest of Honshu, Kyushu (translates to “nine provinces”) is the third-largest island in Japan. One of the earliest known centers of Japanese civilization, Kyushu offers various modern cities, historic gems, and natural treasures.
Best known for its sunny beaches, volcanoes, and hot springs, Kyushu features a subtropical climate. The island also includes many museums, such as the Atomic Bomb Museum. Visitors can travel to Nagasaki Peace Park, which commemorates the devastation left by the 1945 atomic bomb.
ShikokuShikoku (translates to “four countries”) is the smallest of Japan’s four major islands, southwest of Japan’s main island Honshu. Much like its name suggests, Shikoku is split into four prefectures.
The island’s most notable cities include Matsuyama, home to 8 of the 88 Buddhist pilgrimage temples, and Dogo Onsen, one of the country’s most ancient hot-spring spas, and feudal mountainous Matsuyama Castle.
Shikoku features a mountainous center with whitewater rapid rivers and various hiking trails.
HonshuHome to many of the country’s main cultural sites and cities, Honshu is where Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo reside. For most international travelers, your trip is likely to begin and end in Honshu.
Located in the center of Honshu, Kyoto is known for its traditional geisha entertainment, Zen temples, and cherry blossom gardens. Other popular cities include Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima.
To keep things simple, we’ll mostly be covering travel on Honshu, Japan’s main island.
Beautiful sakura with gold color temple in Japan When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?Now that we’ve touched on the main regions of Japan let’s dive deeper into the Land of the Rising Sun’s spectacular seasons and what each has to offer.
Japan in SpringDepending on the geographical location, spring in Japan generally starts in mid-March and extends to May. The weather during the spring is famously changeable, and temperature can range from 4 to 18 °C (40 to 65 °F).
While some days may make you break a sweat, other days might demand a heavier winter coat.
For most of the country, the most popular time to visit is during the spring, or hanami season, while the cherry blossoms, or sakura, are fully blooming.
The one downside of traveling during the spring is large crowds. Most tourists plan their trips to the island around this season, which causes airfares and hotel prices to spike.
It’s also difficult to predict when exactly the Hanami season will begin. Sometimes, the sakura flowers blossom earlier than expected. Other years, the blossoms bloom much later. Additionally, a particular windy season could blow away all the blossoms, thus shortening the Hanami season.
The question here isn’t whether or not cherry blossoms are a beautiful sight to see. Rather, the question is whether the unpredictability is worth the expense.
As a traveler, there are four key factors you’ll have to consider when traveling during spring in Japan:
Higher accommodation pricesLower accommodation availabilityMore touristsPlanning far in advanceOther than their uncertainty, cherry blossom season has nearly become too popular.
More specifically, cherry blossom season, in general, is an enchanting time to visit Japan. But over the recent years, the country has experienced a constant record-breaking amount of tourists (mainly from Asia, the U.S., Europe, and Australia).
The most crowded time of cherry blossom season is primarily from the middle of March to the middle of April. When it comes to numbers, the crowds are comparable to that of summer vacations in Europe.
Golden WeekFrom April 29th to May 5th, Japanese locals celebrate “Golden Week” each year, including several national holidays that all occur in a single week.
April 29, Showa Day: Commemorates Emperor Showa’s (commonly known in English as Emperor Hirohito) birthday, who ruled Japan throughout World War 2 (from 1926 until 1947).May 3, Constitution Day (Kenpo kinenbi): The celebration of the ratification of the Constitution of Japan in 1947.May 4, Green Day (Midori no hi): Celebrates the environment; Set aside as the day to commune with nature.May 5, Children’s Day (Kodomo no hi): Commonly called “the Boy’s Festival” or “Feast of Banners,” this day honors young boys by flying Koinobori, or carp streamers, outside houses to wish young boys success in their life.For young girls, the “Girls’ Festival” (Hina Matsuri) occurs on the 3rd of March.Since these are observed as national holidays, the majority of Japanese residents have a week off work. Many tourists take this opportunity to visit the country.
If you’re planning your trip during or near this time, you’ll undoubtedly have an open window to explore and partake in some of Japan’s most famed celebrations.
But it’s important to take accommodation into account before settling on a date. Hotels and other establishments of accommodation—particularly in Kyoto—to be booked far in advance, so start reserving your room as soon as possible.
We also advise booking train tickets ahead of time. Otherwise, you’ll have no mode of transportation.
In summary, cherry blossom season and Golden Week are beautiful and celebratory times to travel to Japan. However, they’re also some of the busiest and crowded.
If you’re not a fan of huge crowds, we advise against traveling to Japan in April or May since huge crowds tend to gather during this time.
If you still want to enjoy the budding cherry blossoms and beautiful weather, instead visit Japan in early March, where crowds and prices are much lower.
During the last half of May, crowds tend to disperse, and warmer temperatures emerge. Though this month is starting to become more popular for this reason, there are still significantly fewer tourists than at the beginning of the season.
As May comes to a close, the warm spring weather slowly transitions to the humid and hot summer months, which brings us to the next season.
Higashiyama district in Kyoto during spring Japan in SummerSummers in Japan reach temperatures of 21 to 32 °C (70 to 90 °F) and offer a lot of fun, warm activities.
From June-August, summer in Japan includes all sorts of festivals and celebrations. Perhaps the busiest time of year to travel is August, when school is no longer in session and the Obon holiday commences, so planning your trip around June or July is recommended.
In June, the weather is comparable to May: not as humid, but still fairly warm. However, the rainy season (tsuyu) begins around the middle of June, in most cases lasting until mid-July.
While it doesn’t rain all day, the skies are rather gloomy and cloudy. As the month continues to pass by, temperatures rise, and it gets more humid.
Due to tsuyu, July starts fairly drizzly but starts to dry up towards the middle of the month. Humidity and temperature continue to increase. In general, July is the second hottest month each year in Japan.
But despite the heat, travelers have the opportunity to witness festivals, including Kyoto’s celebrated Gion Matsuri festival.
In August, temperatures can reach up to 90 °F—making it Japan’s hottest month. To dodge the heat, tourists can explore the mountainous regions of Japan. Since the 13th through 15th of August is considered a national holiday, it’s best to avoid large crowds.
During summertime, Japan hosts some of the most colorful, entertaining, and exotic festivals in the world. Tourists love to travel to Japan during this time for this reason.
Some of the most notable festivals include the Awa Odori festival in Tokushima, Aomori’s Nebuta Matsuri, and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri. Additionally, travelers can enjoy several neighborhood matsuris (traditional festive occasions) across the country.
For fireworks lovers, summer is one of the most “explosive” times of year to travel to Japan.
Fireworks, or Hanabi, are serious Japanese events, and attending the Sumidagawa Hanabi Taikai Festival is both a cultural and entertaining experience. It was created to honor the dead and ward off evil spirits. This annual festival takes place on the last Saturday of every July.
Tokyo’s Sumida River Fireworks is another considerably famous pyrotechnic display. During the summer months, numerous firework shows happen over the island.
While the weather is generally hot, humid, and sticky, it’s not as bad as people make it seem. Both central and mountainous regions of Japan enjoy cooler temperatures in the evening, especially in Kyoto and Tokyo. In Japan, summer is the prime time for outdoor activities of all kinds.
If you plan on visiting Japan in June, July, or August, but you’re not a fan of the heat, we recommend traveling to Tohoku, Hokkaido, or the Japanese Alps, where temperatures are much cooler and less humid.
There will still be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fireworks displays, outdoor excursions, and maybe even some scuba diving, but just in a less extreme way than if you were traveling to the primary cities and hot spots.
TyphoonsDepending on where you’re traveling, Japan typically experiences typhoons (or tropical storms that take place across the Atlantic Ocean) which generally begin in May and last through October. The peak for the rainy season is through June and July.
While typhoons can affect all regions of Japan, Okinawa and southwestern parts of the country experience the highest volume of rain.
During the summer, it’s somewhat expected for typhoons to interfere with travel plans, specifically transportation. However, this doesn’t happen as often in other regions of Japan.
Still, for travelers, typhoon season is something to be aware of in any case.
Seigantoji, Temple in Nachikatsuura, Japan Japan in FallDepending on the location, the changing of the leaves in Japan begins around mid-September, as the temperatures cool down, and end in early December. For most travelers, fall is considered to be the most enjoyable time to visit Japan due to the pleasant weather conditions, which range from 10 to 21 °C (50 to 70 °F).
Besides the clear weather and comfortable temperatures, Japan is one of the most famous countries known for its vibrant fall foliage, known as koyo.
In the beginning, to mid-September, the weather is generally still warm, whereas the weather in late September/early October begins to drop in preparation for the winter. Depending on where you travel in Japan, you may even find September to be more of a summer month.
Now that the weather has cooled down, tourists can partake in various fall activities while enjoying the comfortable temperatures. For this reason, October is one of the most popular seasons to travel to Japan and is even considered the “Goldilocks” of months, where the weather is not too hot and not too cold.
However, the peak season for travel starts in November, when fall is in full swing. Large crowds begin to gather to watch the fall foliage.
Because of this spike in tourism, travelers who are looking to stay away from large crowds might want to consider visiting in early December, where crowds are lower, and koyo is still in session.
Relaxing in an outdoor hot spring, or onsen, while witnessing the changing autumn leaves is an experience to be remembered.
The excitement surrounding Japan’s fall season is similar to the excitement surrounding Hanami, or the transient blooming of cherry blossoms. Unfortunately, this eagerness causes prices in airfares and hotels to increase, and large crowds of tourists flood into the country.
Consequently, this enthusiasm also demands the need to plan much further in advance. So if you still plan on visiting Japan in the fall, we recommended booking trains, flights, and accommodations as early as possible.
Beautiful Daigoji temple with colorful tree and leaf in autumn Japan in WinterFrom December to early March, winter in Japan reaches cold temperatures, ranging from -1 to 7 °C (30 to 45 °F).
While some people have love-hate relationships with the cold, wintertime in Japan has a lot of opportunities, including festivals and celebrations. Once you get past the fact that this season demands chilly temperatures, you can enjoy all Japan has to offer during “the most wonderful time of the year.”
Throughout early December, Japan receives very few visitors (depending on where you plan to visit) since the winter season is in full gear.
Most tourists prefer visiting during the fall or spring seasons, where the weather is pleasant, and the foliage is spectacular. But winter in Japan can be just as beautiful as any other season—if you know where to look.
In the Japanese Alps, there’s an abundant amount of snowfall, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. In fact, Japan has some of the best powder skiing than any other country.
The island of Hokkaido offers some of the highest-rated ski resorts in the country, including Rusutsu, Niseko, and Furano Prince Snow Resorts. After you’re done skiing, feel free to warm yourself up in one of Japan’s famous hot springs, which many tourists consider to be a major perk to visiting Japan in the winter.
The Japanese hot springs are available to use all year round, but there’s something special—and almost magical—about soaking in onsens as you watch the snowfall.
Winter FestivalsFor the most part, the winter season is a less crowded time to visit Japan. However, there are a few notable celebrations that take place throughout December-January that tend to bring in travelers.
Specifically, during the New Year’s holidays, the island hosts various festivals and celebrations. While this is certainly a joyous time to visit, you may want to consider the potential downsides.
Since New Year’s is generally a prolonged holiday in many countries throughout the world, the days in preparation for the festivity become busy with tourists, traveling families, and locals who are off school or work.
For instance, along the generally quiet Kyoto streets, people from all over the world suddenly flood the roads to take in the festive atmosphere.
However, if you’re a person who prefers quieter and less crowded areas, you may want to consider traveling to Japan outside this time of year.
Accommodations during the holidays are typically hard to reserve, as well. In Japan, most people receive multiple vacation days for New Years’ celebrations, whereas places in the U.S. and Europe typically only receive one day. And since many Japanese people travel inward to visit their families, most hotels are booked far in advance and for prolonged periods. This demand results in higher-than-usual prices and low availability.
Starting at the last half of December and extending on through early January, many places remain closed off to the public, including shops, museums, restaurants, and more.
Over the past few years, there have been some exceptions. But going into it, it’s wise to assume that most places will remain closed during this time. For most parts of the country, the majority of restaurants stay closed from December 31st until January 2nd or 3rd.
However, there are some department stores and luxury restaurants that specifically stay open to cater to tourists.
While people are hustling and bustling throughout the major cities, travelers can use this time to visit more secluded parts of Japan. You can also tour shrines and temples, which generally remain open to tourists before and after New Years’.
Kanazawa Winter Gardens Celebrations and National Holidays in JapanJapan is one of the few countries that host celebrations and festivals throughout the year. For travelers, knowing when these holidays occur can significantly impact travel plans, either negatively or positively.
To provide travelers with a clearer understanding of these holidays, we’ve detailed a list of annual Japanese holidays, celebrations, and other annual public occasions.
Note: If a publicly observed holiday takes place on a Sunday, the succeeding Monday also becomes a holiday. In the same regard, if two public holidays surround a regular day, that day also becomes a holiday.
January 1: “New Year” (shogatsu)
For Japanese natives, New Years’ is the greatest celebrated holiday. Businesses typically remain closed two days after the holiday.Second Monday of January: “Coming of Age” (seijin no hi)
This holiday celebrates the “coming of age” of young men and women aged 20 years.February 3: Beginning of spring (setsubun)
The beginning of spring isn’t observed nationwide as a holiday—however, many temples and shrines throughout the country honor Setsubun.February 11: “National Foundation Day” (kenkoku kinenbi)
This national holiday celebrates the founding of Japan and the first crowning of the Japanese emperor.February 14: “Valentine’s Day”
In the U.S. and Europe, men typically give women gifts on Valentine’s Day. However, in Japan, men actually receive goodies, like chocolates and cakes, from women.Valentine’s Day isn’t a national Japanese holidayFebruary 23: “Emperor’s Birthday” (tenno no tanjobi)
Nationally observed as a public holiday, Japanese locals celebrate the current emperor’s birthday.March 3: “Doll’s Festival” (hina matsuri)
Families display peach blossoms and traditional Japanese dolls throughout their homes to wish their young daughters a happy and successful life.March 14: “White Day”
Considered the counterpart to Valentine’s Day, Japanese men honor this day by gifting women chocolates and cakes.Around March 20: “Spring Equinox Day” (shunbun no hi)
Japanese natives honor this day by visiting graves throughout the week on which the Equinox Day falls.Golden Week
April 29: “Showa Day” (Showa no hi): Celebrates the birthday of Japanese Emperor Showa (Hirohito), who ruled during WW2.May 3: “Constitution Memorial Day” (kenpo kinenbi): Observed nationwide as a holiday to celebrate the enactment of the new Japanese system of law after WW2, the 1947 Constitution of Japan.May 4: “Greenery Day” (midori no hi): The last holiday of Golden Week. Due to Emperor Showa’s love for nature and foliage, the Japanese celebrate May 4 as Greenery Day.May 5: “Children’s Day” (kodomo no hi): This national holiday is set aside to celebrate a young boy’s life and wish them ongoing success and happiness.July/August 7: “Star Festival” (tanabata)
According to ancient Japanese myths, the Vega star and Altair star (symbolizing deities Orihime and Hikoboshi) travel across the Milky Way each year of the 7th of July, renewing their age-old commitment of love.Japan celebrates the ancient lovers with lively decorations, stories of Vega and Altair, and wishes written on long strips of colorful paper and attached to bamboo trees.Third Monday of July: “Ocean Day” (umi no hi)
First observed in 1996, Ocean Day is a national holiday to honor the blessings of the ocean and consider the economic wealth of maritime Japan.August 11: “Mountain Day” (yama no hi)
The most recent accepted public holiday, Mountain Day, celebrates the island’s blessing of mountains.July/August 13-15: “Obon Festival”
This festival celebrates the Buddhist Obon event designed to honor one’s, deceased ancestors.Third Monday of September: “Respect for the Aged Day” (keiro no hi)
This Japanese national holiday is set aside to pay respect to elderly citizensAround September 23: “Autumn Equinox Day” (shubun no hi)
On this day, families reconnect with one another and visit the graves of their ancestors.Second Monday of October: “Health and Sports Day” (taiiku no hi)This national holiday commemorates the opening of the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo.To this day, Japan honors this holiday to promote healthy and active lifestyles.
November 3: “Culture Day” (bunka no hi)
Schools and the government celebrate this day of promotion of arts, education, and culture by awarding specific people for their academic endeavors or unique cultural accomplishments.November 15: “Seven-Five-Three” (shichi-go-san)
This “rite of passage” event honors young boys aged three and five and young girls aged three and seven.This national holiday celebrates the well-being and health of children.November 23: “Labor Thanksgiving Day” (kinro kansha no hi)
Previously celebrated as a harvest festival, this national public holiday honors production and labor.Families gather together and take time to give thanks to one another.December 24th and 25th: Christmas
Though Christmas isn’t a nationally observed holiday in Japan, shop owners decorate their stores leading up to the famous celebration.Similar to other parts of the world, many Japanese families partake in Christmas dinners.December 31: New Year’s Eve (omisoka)
The night before New Years’.
Cherry-Blossom Viewing (Hanami) Festival Plan Your Next Trip to JapanIf there’s one thing you’ve learned from this article, it’s that there is no wrong time to visit the beautiful island of Japan. The best time to visit Japan depends on your budget, where you want to go, and what you want to do.
Japan is a year-round dream destination for many, and the country offers a wealth of opportunities. From skiing in the winter, vibrant and colorful cherry blossoms in the spring to warm adventures in the summer, and vivid hues of changing leaves and festive activities in the fall.
Most seem to agree that the best time to visit Japan is either late May or mid-September to early December. But regardless of the time you choose to visit, there’s guaranteed to be plenty of activities to enjoy.
Maybe you’ve dreamt of visiting Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine, the Todaiji temple, or other architecturally beautiful ancient buildings. Or perhaps you want to take a snowboarding trip to the chilly northern island of Hokkaido.
Below, we’ve detailed a list on when the best time to travel to Japan, depending on some of the most popular activities, so you can see what time of year best coincides with your interests.
Beating the crowds: WinterSkiing/Snowboarding: WinterHiking: Spring, Summer, or WinterSeeing Mount Fuji: Late Fall, Winter, early SpringHot springs/Onsens: Winter, Spring, or FallPhotography: Spring or FallBeaches: SummerScuba Diving: SummerCelebrations and Festivals: All year roundWhatever your travel style or interests, we hope we’ve helped you identify the best time to visit Japan.
May 6, 2021
Best Travel Backpack for Women
Preparing to travel through rough terrain means purchasing a reliable backpack. You may be hiking the Appalachian trail, trekking across sand dunes in Colorado, walking across Death Valley, or even just backpacking through a new country; still, you will not make it far without a sturdy and spacious backpack.
By ALEX ESPINO Preparing to travel through rough terrain means purchasing a reliable backpack. You may be hiking the Appalachian trail, trekking across sand dunes in Colorado, walking across Death Valley, or even just backpacking through a new country; still, you will not make it far without a sturdy and spacious backpack.
We’ve compiled a list of the very best backpacks for women, so you can choose one that best suits your needs. Every backpack is placed into a size category to help you determine which gear you should purchase before you embark on your next adventure.
Being informed about the details of your backpack is essential. At the end of each description, you will find three product details: the product’s capacity, its weight, and its dimensions. Every backpack on this list is a high-quality backpack, but some contain features that others do not possess.
As you peruse the list of the best travel backpacks for women, make sure to consider your specific needs and requirements. By being informed about your needs and the details of each bag, you will be able to choose the best gear for your upcoming hikes and explorations.
Carry-on Size: 30-40 Liter PacksGoing on a flight? These backpacks are under 40 liters, and most airlines will allow them on planes.
These are the best backpacks under 40 liters, which (while plenty large!) may not be big enough your particular needs. For other bags with higher capacities, please see the groups of packs below this particular list.
If you need two backpacks with different capabilities, you should compare and contrast the features of the packs on each list. The entire list divides the bags into groups based on specified features.
Now, let’s take a closer look at backpacks that are between 30-40 liters!
Fjallraven Travel PackThe Fjallraven Travel backpack is a functional backpack. The pack contains cotton and recycled polyester. Every inch of the Fjallraven travel backpack features water-resistant material. This backpack’s most significant features are its strength and durability.
A secure laptop case inside the backpack fits laptops up to 15 inches in size. Also, the pack contains pocket sleeves for tablets, documents, and folders. If you are traveling through many airports, open the laptop compartment, and this will allow you to move through customs without digging through the other items in your backpack.
Primary sections of the back open up in shell style. These sections separate into multiple pockets. On the backpack’s bottom, a compartment contains a zipper pocket. Two small cases separate the backpack’s top area.
The easy organization promotes efficient traveling. The Fjallraven travel backpack contains two front pockets which help you access essential items.
Also, the Fjallraven backpack suits the female body. The men’s version is larger. The men’s version contains more extensive shoulder straps. Mesh covers the harness, and the shoulder straps can be removed and placed inside one of the pockets.
Pros
Optimized for organizationShell shaped opening TSA friendlyCons
The Backpanel includes no ventilationThe price is highProduct Details
Dimensions: 46 x 32 x 27 cmWeight: 1.65 kgCapacity: 35 litersSWISSGEAR 1900 Scansmart TSA Laptop BackpackThe SwissGear backpack is a great carry-on backpack. This pack contains several components that can help you travel with electronics and other valuable items. The Swissgear 1900 Scansmart contains a specific container for electronics. The container can hold laptops up to 17 inches.
Users can adjust the ergonomic shoulder straps. The shoulder straps are padded and contain placeholders for sunglasses or eyeglasses. An Airflow panel with extra padding provides greater comfort to the user.
The Swissgear 1900 contains an excellent system of compartments and pockets. A headphone jack and a media section rest inside the main compartment. Small and large zipper pockets line the main area. These features will help users organize wireless accessories and batteries.
Four large compartments adorn the Swissgear 1900. These extra pockets will help you carry small and large items on your upcoming trips.
Pros
Strong organizing compartmentsTSA friendlyComfortable Airflow panelCons
No sternum strapSmaller sizeProduct Details
Size: 31 litersWeight: 3.2 lbsDimensions: 18.5” x 13.5 x 9”The North Face RouterThe North Face Router is a superb backpack for traveling and adventuring throughout many different environments. Users will be able to use this backpack on airplanes and camping sites. The North Face Router contains many valuable compartments and pockets. The North Face Router is a versatile backpack and performs well in all weather conditions.
The North Face Router contains no features specifically designed for women, and the backpack is not excessively large or heavy. Some women may prefer to find a pack more suitable to their specific needs.
A 17” compartment for laptops rests in the backpack. Substantial padding surrounds this compartment.
One internal zipped pocket rests inside the North Face Router’s central section. Users can place clothes or bulky items in the central section. The front compartment is also roomy and versatile. The North Face Router also contains a smartphone holder and a sleeve for your tablet.
Every North Face Router features FlexVent suspension. The North Face Router is a well-ventilated backpack that will not strain the body while users are hiking, climbing, or walking.
Pros
Endorsed by the American Chiropractic AssociationTSA friendly laptop sleeveSuperb organizational toolsHynes Eagle Carry-On BackpackThe Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack is one of the most inexpensive options on the list. This unisex backpack has a retail price of $50.
Polyester is the main component of the backpack, and the back panel is well ventilated. Mesh covers the shoulder straps.
The Hynes Eagle is one of the most undersized backpacks on the list. Users will begin to see marks and tears on the backpack after using it for two to four months.
The laptop sleeve holds laptop computers up to 15.6,” and some 17” laptops may fit if their bodies are slim and narrow.
The Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack opens up like a suitcase. The main compartment is big enough to hold several large personal items. Holding your items in a stable condition is easy with the internal straps included with the Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack.
The Hynes Eagle helps users travel with many different items and tools. Although the Hynes Eagle is not the largest bag on this list, it is one of the most versatile and dependable.
The front compartment in the Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack contains an organizational tool. A large sleeve inside can hold a tablet and files. Slip pockets and zip pockets are also included with the Hynes Eagle carry-on backpack.
Pros
Great for organizing itemsBackpack strapsInexpensiveCons
The backpack is not very durableNo hip beltProduct Details
Size: 38 litersWeight: 1.76 poundsDimensions: 13” x 7.9” x 19.7” Carry-on size: 40-50 litersSome of the most excellent women-specific bags have an average size of 40 or 50 liters. A few of these can be carried on airplanes even though their capacities are quite large.
Prospective users should make sure to find out the weight and capacity requirements for their new travel backpack. Some travelers will need to double-check their airline requirements. Unfortunately, the more significant-capacity travel backpacks will not be able to function as carry-on luggage.
Specific airlines will have the details regarding weight limits for carry-on items. The travel backpacks in this area are more extensive than those in the previous section, and additional features of these travel backpacks may also add to the total weight of the travel backpack.
That’s why it’s important for you to weigh your pack after you’ve filled it with whatever you’re taking with you on your journey. After all, a 50 liter backpack stuffed with paper and socks weighs much less than a pack of similar size that’s full of, say, workout equipment.
Gregory Mountain Products Proxy 45The Proxy 45 is a backpack specifically designed for females. Gregory Mountain Products creates valuable and durable outdoor travel items. Gregory Mountain Products manufactures some of the best outdoor gear available on the market.
Water resistance is a vital feature of Proxy 45. Nylon protects from the elements. The Proxy 45 is female-specific, and this is evident in its air mesh harness and sternum strap. The sternum strap can be removed and stored in its compartment.
The Proxy 45 features an adjustable harness, and this versatility enables any female to wear the backpack comfortably.
Suitcase style opening distinguishes Proxy 45. The large main cases can hold five to seven outfits. A front compartment includes an organization panel and a laptop sleeve containing padded sections. Laptops 15.6” inches and smaller will fit inside the laptop sleeve. The Proxy 45 also contains pockets for a tablet and a smartphone.
The zippered pocket on the top of the Proxy 45 is deep and can hold several items. The zippers on the Proxy 45 contain locks, and this safety feature is not available on the majority of the backpacks on our list. These compartments and zippers will help any woman organize her items efficiently and quickly.
Pros
The exterior is strongThe harness is adjustable and sturdyA variety of compartmentsCons
Not capable of being a carry-on when completely packedNo TSA friendly laptop sleeveProduct Details
Size: 45 litersWeight: 3.39 lbsDimensions: 23.5” x 13.75” x 10”Osprey Porter 46The Osprey Porter 46 is the best mid-sized backpack on the list. Although it is too big to carry-on many airlines, users can store the Osprey Porter 46 in the cabin. The harness and back panel both contain heavy padding, and the Osprey Porter 46 features HDPE suspension.
The Osprey Porter 46 contains no ventilation. Users will need to take this into account if they are searching for a backpack that features ventilation.
The Osprey Porter 46 features a main section that opens after the user stretches the backpack. The front-loading design is convenient and efficient, and users can pack the Osprey Porter 46 in just a few minutes.
The front compartment contains an organization panel. The external pockets are large enough for items that you do not want in the main packing compartment.
The Osprey Porter 46 features an extensive compression system allowing users to tighten the backpack when it is not entirely full. The compression system also reduces the size of the pack.
The padded laptop sleeve will keep laptops and tablets safe from the elements. The Osprey Porter 46 is a great mid-sized pack suitable for many different environments.
Pros
Laptop sleeveHipbeltNumerous pockets and compartmentsCons
No ventilated back panelHeavyTimbuk2 WandererThe Timbuk2 Wanderer hybrid model features elements of both a backpack and a duffel bag. The backpack features 420D Ripstop. Every inch of the Timbuk2 Wanderer is water-resistant. A ventilated back panel and upper armbands are suitable for the summer heat.
The Timbuk2 Wanderer does not feature hip belts or sternum straps. Users should keep this in mind if they plan on filling the Timbuk2 Wanderer to capacity.
However, users can set the shoulder straps down and transform the Timbuk2 Wanderer into a duffel bag. The Timbuk2 Wanderer does not contain a laptop sleeve. But a 15” laptop will fit inside the Timbuk2 Wanderer if users possess laptop sleeves.
The primary compartment is quite large and opens up shell style. A large central compartment and tough arm pads will help your items remain stable.
The Timbuk2 Wanderer contains pockets for shoes. Organizational tools sit on the front of the Timbuk2 Wanderer.
Strong belts are included with the backpack. These can help reduce the size of the backpack.
Pros
Easy organizationDouble as a duffel bagIncredibly versatileCons
No laptop sleeveNo hip belt or chest protectorProduct Information
Size: 40 litersWeight: 3.7 lbsDimensions: 22.8” x 15” x 7.48”Osprey Fairview 40Three different sizes of the Osprey Fairview backpack are available. The smallest version of this backpack functions as carry-on luggage. The Osprey Fairview 40 is specifically designed for women. The Osprey Fairview 40 has ergonomically shaped backpack straps and a torso that is shorter than most men’s backpacks.
The Osprey Fairview 40 is a front-loading backpack. This women-specific backpack contains laptop and tablet sleeves in the main content section.
210D Nylon keeps the Osprey Fairview 40 strong and durable. No additional coating is needed because the backpack is water-resistant.
Every woman can adjust the harness on the backpack. This harness features breathable mesh, and therefore ventilation is an essential element of this backpack. A 3.5mm peripheral frame maintains the backpack’s contour and shape. The weight of the backpack moves from the shoulders to the hips.
The Osprey Fairview 40 contains a padded hip belt. The hip belt is comfortable, adjustable, and padded. These features make this particular backpack good for hiking and walking.
Scratch-resistant pockets will protect sunglasses and smartphones. The internal pockets provide more space for storing sensitive items.
Pros
Ventilated back panelTablet sleeves and laptop sleevesCarry-on sizeCons
ExpensiveHeavy and cumbersome 50 or More LitersThese are the most oversized travel backpacks on the list. Many adventurers, hikers, and climbers may require larger travel backpacks if they will travel for long periods over rough terrain. Similarly, you may need to carry a good deal of things if, say, you’re going to be making a cross-country road trip and want to store everything conveniently in one place!
Larger loads often are not capable of being categorized as carry-on luggage. That means they likely won’t be able to fit into an overhead bin on a plane if they’re packed full. However, if you leave some room, they may fit just fine.
Let’s take a look at the best travel backpacks for women that are over 50 liters!
Thule Landmark Travel PackThe Thule Landmark Travel Pack is a large, women’s specific backpack with a 70-liter capacity. The main bag is 50 liters and the detachable day backpack has a 20-liter capacity.
The day backpack is excellent for backpacking. When you leave your heaviest luggage behind, you are taking only essential items on your hike.
The Thule Landmark Travel Pack has a ventilated back panel and harness. The hip belt and sternum strap will help you comfortably carry your items. Users can easily adjust the shoulder harness.
Many containers and pockets are great for packing any item users need to take on their trips. Smaller compartments help users protect headphones and small items which can be easily misplaced or lost. A laptop sleeve and an organization panel make this backpack an excellent place for storing essential items.
The daypack backpack can connect to the shoulder straps of the leading bag. The daypack protects a user’s back while walking over rough terrain.
The Thule Landmark Travel Pack is an excellent choice for a large backpack.
Pros
Adjustable harnessMany pockets and compartmentsA detachable daypackCons
ExpensiveProduct Details
Size: 70 litersWeight: 4.56 lbsDimensions: 19.3” x 13” x 24.8”Osprey Aura AG 65+The Osprey Aura AG is a women’s specific backpack. The harness and back panel use Anti-Gravity technology. Suspended air mesh covers the harness and the back panel. This backpack is breathable and comfortable. The manufacturer lists important details regarding the Anti-Gravity material used to create the Osprey Aura AG 65+
Users can adjust the whole harness and make the backpack fit many different body types. The Osprey Aura AG weighs only 4.26 lbs. The Aura 65 hip belt padding is adjustable and is extendable. These features will help climbers who want to use this travel backpack on their climbing excursions.
The Osprey Aura AG is a top-loading hiking backpack. The main compartment can easily hold 14 days’ worth of clothes. This backpack contains a floating pocket that functions as a daypack. A FlapJacket cover makes the Osprey Aura AG an incredibly diverse bag.
Hydration sleeves, ice ax loops, and trekking pole attachments are essential features on the Osprey Aura AG. Several side pockets and mesh pockets help users organize essential items. The Osprey Aura AG is a large backpack, and users will have several spaces in which to store their backpacking items.
Pros
Adjustable harnessSuspension systemsSuitable for extended backpacking tripsCons
No carry-on sizeProduct Details
Size: 65 litersWeight: 4.26 lbsDimensions: 31” x 15” x 16”Kelty Redwing 50This unisex backpack is affordable and durable. Users can choose two sizes: a 50-liter version and a 44-liter version. These backpacks are not capable of being used as carry-on bags.
The greatest strength of the Kelty Redwing 50 is its versatile nature. The main compartment section is enormous, allowing you to store whatever you need on your trip. You can even place several weeks’ worth of gear into this large section, if you know how to manage your space!
The back panel features Dynamic AirFlow. Ridges covered in the breathable mesh feature foam ridges. This backpack is comfortable and is ideal for serious hikers and adventurers.
The front compartment contains an organization panel. The front section can hold a tablet. The dual sleeve inside the main packing section holds a laptop or a hydration bladder. The Kelty Redwing 50 contains many pockets as well as a front stretch pocket.
Pros
Versatile and dynamicVentilated back panelOrganizational toolsCons
No Hip belt pocketNo carry-on sizeProduct Details
Size: 50 litersWeight: 3.69 lbsDimensions: 26” x 16” x 12”AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel BackpackThis bag is an inexpensive and high-quality backpack. The large capacity AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack is a reputable backpack anyone can buy. This inexpensive option is a durable and sturdy backpack.
The AmazonBasics Carry-On Travel Backpack can be carried on a plane, and it has a 50-liter capacity. It is a robust and durable backpack. Shoulder straps with good support and strong lining make this backpack convenient and tough.
This backpack contains a hip belt and a sternum strap. These features help shift weight from the user’s shoulders to the hips.
Long shoulder bands accompany the extensive main section on the backpack. The expandable capacity feature helps users pack more items for their trips and adventures.
The shoulder bands can be used to reduce the size capacity of the backpack. The front compartment contains a tool for storing items. Pen holders and slip pockets help users organize important items and information.
Pros
AffordableExpanding capacityOrganizing toolsCarry-on sizeCons
Slightly heavyProduct Details
Size: 50 litersWeight: 3.64 lbsDimensions: 15” x 6.5” x 20.1”Pacsafe VentureSafe EXP45 ECONYL Travel PackPacsafe is an eco-friendly company specializing in anti-theft travel accessories. This backpack protects users’ electronic information and helps when users travel in areas with excessive security risks. These safety features may be more useful for adventurers and explorers engaged in international travel.
ECONYL fiber made from discarded fishing nets is the main component in the material used to make the Pacsafe VentureSafe EXP45 ECONYL Travel Pack backpack. The backpack is light, durable, and rugged. It features a guard of stainless steel wire to protect it against someone slicing your backpack with a knife.
Zippers with locks and a steel cable help users lock their backpacks to non-moving objects, like a pole or cubby. It also has a 15” laptop sleeve that can be used as a hydration pouch. The laptop sleeve is also capable of housing tablets and other thin electronic devices.
This backpack meets carry-on size dimensions.
Pros
SafeSteel CableCarry-on sizeCons
HeavyProduct Details
Size: 45 litersWeight: three lbsDimensions: 14” x 7.5” x 20.1”EBags TLS Mother Lode WeekenderThis 54-liter travel backpack features ten different colors, and it’s packed like a suitcase. The EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender is an inexpensive option for a strong travel backpack. Although the purchase price is higher than other travel backpacks on the list, the EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender is one of the best travel backpacks listed here.
The TLS Mother Lode Weekender only costs $110.00. The backpack features many pockets, an adjustable sleeve, and an expanding zipper that adds extra volume for more oversized items.
The features of this backpack are unique. At three pounds, the 54-liter EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender is not as heavy as one would expect after considering the extra volume and pockets available in the backpack.
Being able to choose from ten different colors gives you a choice to coordinate your outfits with your backpack, if you want. Some hikers and climbers prefer specific backpack colors for different reasons, and the EBags TLS Mother Lode Weekender provides prospective users with many color options.
Pros
InexpensiveAdjustable laptop sleeveExpansion zipperCons
The waist belt is flimsyProduct Details
Size: 54 litersWeight: three lbsDimensions: 19” x 11.75” x 1.5”Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel PackThe Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack is the biggest and strongest travel backpack. It is a functional and sturdy carry-on-sized bag. The travel pack features a nylon shell and polyester, and the travel pack will not tear or wear down under rain or excessive moisture.
Mesh compartments provide easy storage solutions. Also, three padded tablet and laptop sleeves protect devices, all while providing easy access to you as you go about your day. These features are standard on the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L Travel Pack.
The travel pack and be worn on the back or carried on the shoulder. An included rain cover will help protect your items from the elements. Users can detach the rain cover from the Cotopaxi Allpa 42 L Travel Pack. If this feature is essential to prospective purchasers, they should make sure it is listed on their purchase summary when they check out on the manufacturer’s website.
Travelers and hikers will love the strength and transportability of this travel pack. It is an excellent option for serious hikers, backpackers, and climbers.
Pros
StrongOptimum organizationMultiple laptop sleevesCons
Waist Belt is not very supportiveProduct Details
Size: 42 litersWeight: 4lbsDimensions: 21.5” x 13” x 9”Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32LThe Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32L is eco-friendly, water-repellant, and lightweight. This travel pack features 100% recycled nylon and polyester. Although the bag is not heavy, it is solid and capable of withstanding rough environments.
Two laptop sleeves with padding protect your computers. A zipper on the top of the bag helps you access necessary items quickly. The daisy chains included with the travel pack help users clip hats, sandals, or water bottles to the travel pack.
The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32 L is a great travel pack for people who need to carry a lot of gear but do not want a heavy weight on their bodies. The Patagonia Black Hole Pack 32 L can help backpackers and hikers go further without feeling exhausted by excessive weight.
Pros
LightweightSturdyWater-repellantCons
ExpensiveProduct Details
Size: 32 litersWeight: 1 lbDimensions: 22” x 10.5” x 6.75” Purchasing a Travel BackpackTravel backpacks come in various sizes, shapes, and weights. After reviewing this list, you should choose a travel backpack that will enable you to engage in whatever outdoor activities you are most fond of! By focusing on the exact dimensions of the travel backpacks, you can make the best decision for yourself and your travel companions.
Many of the items contain women-specific features, but some travel backpacks on this list are not designed only for the fairer sex, so to speak. It is crucial for you to double-check the product details of your travel backpack before making a final purchase. Some of these travel backpacks may not meet all of your needs, so you should make your decision with care.
Without a doubt, these are the best travel backpacks for women on the market right now. We’ve laid out 15 options for you, highlighting the different features and specs that you may need. Whether you want something that you can take on an airplane with you or a backpack that will be able to hold a whole week’s worth of goods, you’ll find the perfect satchel for your next voyage!
May 4, 2021
How to Pack a Backpack for Travelling
Packing a backpack is a task that seems to have a straightforward concept. Depending on the situation, there is more than one way to pack a backpack. You may be wondering how to pack a backpack for travelling.
By ALEX ESPINO Packing a backpack is a task that seems to have a straightforward concept. Depending on the situation, there is more than one way to pack a backpack. You may be wondering how to pack a backpack for travelling.
Multiple factors go into the process of packing a backpack for travel. Ultimately, you want to be as comfortable as possible throughout your trip. Learning to pack wisely is important.
The skill will come in handy if you are taking a camping trip. It can also come in handy even if you are just visiting a friend.
Choose Your BackpackThe type of backpack that you choose can make a huge difference while traveling. Not every backpack shares the same goal, and some are not big enough to handle a traveling load.
Before you embark on your journey, you will want to do some backpack shopping. Even if you already have a backpack, it’s worth it to stop at a department store.
Wearing a backpack for short periods doesn’t allow you to understand how the bag will hold up after hours of wear. As a result, your current backpack may not be suitable for traveling.
If you are going to be wearing a backpack for a long time, you will want the experience to be comfortable. Depending on your physical state, you may find that certain backpacks work better than others.
The type of backpack that you choose is ultimately a personal choice. However, you will want to make sure that whatever bag you choose is high-quality.
Select Your BelongingsPart of packing for a trip means selecting what you are going to bring. If you are relying on your backpack to store your items, you will need to plan carefully.
Excess items will add weight to your backpack. A heavy backpack is the fastest way to tire yourself out within the first few hours of your trip. To avoid tiring yourself out, you should only bring your necessities.
Try to bring a water bottle and some snacks with you if you are traveling on foot. Traveling for a long time can cause you to tire out, and having nourishment is important to help you regain your strength. Even if you are traveling on a bus or a train, snacks, and water is still important in case of emergencies.
Cape Dyrholaey Position Your BelongingsOnce you select your belongings, it is now time to pack them. How you place your items in your backpack can change the way it feels on your back.
The biggest goal of packing a backpack for travel is to avoid injuring your back. Carrying around heavy items all day can tire you out. Heavy items can also cause strain on your body. If you pack and wear your backpack incorrectly, you can even injure yourself.
To avoid a back injury, there is a method that you can follow. This method is to properly distribute the weight of your items. You should place your heaviest items closest to your back. The heaviest items should also be in the center of the backpack. You can achieve this process by packing light items on the bottom of the bag.
First, establish a bottom layer of your things in the backpack. You can then pack your heaviest items. You can wrap the heavy items in clothes or blankets to prevent the larger items from hitting your back. Your lightest items can go on top of the rest of your belongings.
This method allows for the weight of your belongings to be even. Placing the heaviest items in the center can prevent the weight of your bag from straining your back.
Protect Your BelongingsProtecting your belongings is the next critical step in preparing your backpack for your trip. You will want to protect your backpack from various things. Your method of protection may change depending on where you are going.
If you are going on a camping trip, you will want to waterproof your belongings. Mud, rain, and other environmental factors can quickly ruin your things. When your items get wet, they can also become heavier and harder to carry around.
Getting a backpack that features waterproof material is a great first step to take in protecting your things. You can also take steps to provide an extra layer of protection for your fragile items. Paper materials, such as books and maps, are especially prone to getting water damage.
Wrapping books and other fragile items in plastic can help keep out rain and debris.
You can also take measures to protect your items from other people. Investing in a small lock for your bag can keep wandering hands away from your items.
ConclusionTaking the time to pack your backpack correctly can help you improve the quality of your trip.
Best Time to Visit Iceland
Are you looking for a top-notch, jaw-dropping vacation destination? Are you in the process of planning a fabulously romantic honeymoon but haven’t picked a place yet? Or maybe you’re searching for the best spot for a family trip and aren’t sure where to go. No matter what you’re planning, you might want to consider Iceland as your next getaway.
By ALEX ESPINO Are you looking for a top-notch, jaw-dropping vacation destination? Are you in the process of planning a fabulously romantic honeymoon but haven’t picked a place yet? Or maybe you’re searching for the best spot for a family trip and aren’t sure where to go. No matter what you’re planning, you might want to consider Iceland as your next getaway.
Top Reasons Why You Should Visit IcelandYou may have never considered Iceland as a prime location for a relaxing and fun-filled trip. However, you might want to think again! This small country has a lot more to offer, from stunning landscapes and scenery to more rich history and unique culture than you might think.
Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should pay Iceland a visit:
The Northern LightsThe Northern Lights are by far one of the most amazing phenomenons that occur in Iceland. The aurora borealis attracts thousands of tourists each year, wowing them with a magical light display. This fantastic show can be viewed over the months of September to April.
This fantastic show is caused by electrically charged particles traveling through Earth’s atmosphere at supersonic speeds. Once these particles collide with the atoms and molecules in the upper layer of the atmosphere, they create rings of light.
Geothermal BathsAlthough you can’t take a dip in the freezing ocean, you are more than welcome to soak in one of Iceland’s many nature hot tubs, also known as geothermal baths. Take your pick from among the many different natural hot pools scattered around the country!
One of the most popular bathing spots is the Blue Lagoon, where you can relax your body and mind as you’re submerged in pure geothermal seawater.
Beautiful, Untouched NatureIt’s been said that adventure is out there, and that certainly rings true when it comes to Iceland. From mountains and waterfalls to glaciers and volcanoes, Iceland is a nature lover’s dream.
There are countless nature trails to explore and so many pristine landscapes to view. You can quickly fill up your schedule with hikes and explorations. Check out the Svartifoss waterfall or hike right into the heart of the Thrihnukagigur volcano. You’ll be amazed at the magnificent Landmannalaugar mountains and the vastness of the giant icebergs floating in the Arctic Ocean.
Intriguing Black BeachesHave you ever seen a black beach? If you head to Iceland, you’ll get that chance! Iceland has some of the most interesting-looking beaches, filled with beautiful black pebbles and lined with black basalt cliffs. One of the most popular beaches is Reynisfjara near the village of Vik.
Icelandic HorsesIt really doesn’t get any better than seeing cute, fluffy horses. Iceland is the place to be if you’re a horse (or animal) lover. They are known for their vast array of wildlife, including the Icelandic horse, which is actually one of the oldest horse breeds in the entire world.
The Midnight SunChances are, you’ve only heard stories about how certain areas of the world get 24-hour sunlight. But have you ever wanted to experience the Midnight Sun for yourself? Iceland is located right beneath the Arctic Circle, which allows for bright summer evenings that never grow dark.
This unique event is a result of the Earth’s axis being tilted toward the sun during the summer months. This incredible summer solstice peak happens between June 20th and 22nd. Residents experience 24-hour daylight between May to August.
Cape Dyrholaey When Should You Take a Trip to the Land of Fire and IceTiming is everything when it comes to planning a trip. It impacts the weather conditions and the specific activities you want to participate in once you’re there. Certain seasons may not be best suited for what you want to do. So, it’s essential to know the best time to visit Iceland.
Many other things can impact your visit, such as how many tourists are visiting, when you can see the Northern Lights, and when particular activities or events are happening.
If you’re considering Iceland as a possible vacation location, you’ll want to consider the country’s seasons and climate. However, you really can’t go wrong visiting Iceland, as each season is beautiful and offers a unique experience.
Here are a few of the best times to visit Iceland and some expectations to help you plan your trip:
Spring (March through May)Although the country is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit Iceland is probably during the spring season. The days start getting longer, and the grass begins to grow, creating marvelous scenery wherever you look. It’s also the low season, which will help you avoid the big crowds.
The weather may be rainy and windy, but temperatures should be comfortable. You might not need them, but bring layers! Spring is the perfect time to check out the thawing waterfalls and take a drive around Ring Road for some incredible views.
If you’re interested in viewing some incredible artwork, you can visit Reykjavik in mid to late March for their annual DesignMarch festival. If music’s more your style, check out Aldrei For Eg Sudur and Tectronic music festivals.
You can also go watch adorable Puffin penguins, take a hike, go whale watching, horseback riding, kayaking, go golfing, or take a trip out to explore some lava fields. You can even visit an Icelandic farm to see some cute baby lambs!
Summer (June through August)Everybody and their brother wants to visit Iceland during the summer months due to the mild weather. This means it’s peak season, and you’ll definitely be joining the other thousands of intrigued tourists.
During this season, you’ll be able to catch the Midnight Sun if you visit during the summer solstice. You’ll be presented with a variety of fun outdoor activities to choose from, such as visiting the black sand beaches, snorkeling, visiting Blue Lagoon for a quick dip, volcano hiking, and so much more.
A few festivals to check out include Culture Night in Reykjavik and The Great Fish Day in Dalvik during the month of August; make sure you come hungry for some delicious seafood! You can also sing and dance your heart out at Secret Solstice, one of the biggest festivals Reykjavik has to offer, in mid-June.
One tip you’ll appreciate is to pack an eye mask. The Midnight Sun has a way of keeping you up at night.
Fall (September through November)The best thing about autumn is the dazzling colors. From deep reds and bursting oranges to subtle yellows and a remnant of lush green, fall is one of the best times to travel to Iceland. With adequate daylight and moderately cool temps, you’re sure to enjoy a refreshing visit.
You’ll have a slight possibility of seeing the Northern Lights if you plan your visit in November. Most of what you can do in the summer months, you can also do in the fall. You’ll just benefit by paying slightly lower prices since it’s an off-season for tourists.
In addition, you can hike through the Golden Circle and see the Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir or hike through a variety of volcanoes scattered around throughout the country. If you’re looking for a thrill and are dive-certified, you can go diving between the North American and European tectonic plates. Plan a day trip to go sightseeing and stop by one of the most photo-worthy churches in the country – Hallgrimskirkja. Or, if you’re feeling like a warm swim, head over to the Lake Myvatn geothermal area and enjoy a relaxing soak.
Fall is also a great time to enjoy an alcoholic beverage or two. Stop by the Olgerdin Brewery and grab yourself some authentic Icelandic beer or schnapps.
Winter (December through February)Although many people usually try to escape the cold, you can enjoy a variety of great activities in Iceland during the winter. Just make sure you pack plenty of warm clothes!
You can expect to endure some cold and dark days. December 21st marks the winter solstice, resulting in only three hours of daylight. However, this is prime time to witness the gorgeous northern lights! You can also check out the Winter Lights Festival the first week of February if you’re visiting then.
Due to the cold weather and poor driving conditions, you’ll enjoy more privacy and solitude, away from tourists. There are still plenty of things to do in the winter season in Iceland, from snowmobiling and taking a tour of the beautiful landscapes to exploring ice caves and hiking glaciers.
Wave movements around Ice blocks What Are You Waiting For? Start Planning Your Trip to Iceland!Now that you’ve learned about all these fantastic things and the best time to visit Iceland, what are you waiting for? Book your flight, snag a nice hotel room, and make your traveling plans! There are countless things to do, places to see, and people to meet when visiting this beautiful country.
No matter what season you choose, you can rest assured you’ll make countless memories that will surely last a lifetime.
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