tips

The Ultimate Travel Essentials List: What We Recommend We are excited to share some of our favorite travel essentials through our partnership with Amazon. We have personally utilized and tested most of the products listed here, ensuring they meet our stamp of approval. Please note that when you purchase any of these items through the links on our website, you’re not just getting quality gear for your travel—you’re also supporting our work. We earn a small commission from Amazon at no cost to you, helping us continue to provide valuable travel tips and insights. We appreciate your support and hope our recommendations enhance your travels!  Thule Compression Cube Set  This is one of our favorite travel essentials. We have been traveling with the Thule Compression Cube for quite some time now. Compression cubes maximize luggage space by reducing bulk and keeping clothes organized and dirt- and wrinkle-free.  Durable compression zipper eliminates excess air between clothes to maximize packing space, semitransparent fabric, size perfectly fits most carry-on luggage, small size is ideal for socks, underwear, and shirts, while medium size is great for jeans, leggings, and shirts. Zipper Pouch Zipper pouches are handy for organizing and accessing small items quickly, such as toiletries, electronics, or documents. They keep your essentials in one place, prevent them from getting lost, and help maintain order in your luggage. TSA-approved Approved Cable locks, Re-settable Combination with Alloy Body Cable luggage locks are useful for securing your bags and belongings, adding an extra layer of protection against theft. Their flexible design allows them to fit a variety of zippers and handles, making them versatile and effective for keeping your items safe. Most durable TSA-recognized and accepted TSA lock, easy to set 3-digit combination, and security with the flexibility of a cable lock. Acantha Foldable Fork and Spoon Set, Portable Folding Spoon and Fork Set with Two Plastic Storage Cases for Travel Camping Outdoors Picnic A foldable fork and spoon set is convenient for eating on the go, especially when dining in places where utensils aren’t provided. It’s also eco-friendly and helps reduce waste by avoiding disposable cutlery. Perilogics Universal In-Flight Airplane Phone Holder Mount Hands Free Viewing with Multi-Directional Dual 360 Degree Rotation. Pocket Size Must Have Airplane Travel Essential Accessory for Flying. A universal in-flight airplane phone holder mount keeps your phone secure and accessible during the flight, allowing you to watch movies, use apps, or follow travel plans hands-free. It enhances comfort and convenience, making your in-flight experience more enjoyable and organized. PACKISM TSA Approved Toiletry Bag  Clear Makeup Bag Waterproof Quart Size Bag, Travel Makeup Cosmetic Bag for Women, Carry on Airport Airline Compliant Bag, 3 Pack. A clear, waterproof makeup bag helps you easily locate your cosmetics and toiletries, especially in security screenings at airports. Its waterproof feature protects your items from spills and leaks, keeping everything dry and organized. TSA Approved: The 7.5 x 5.5 x 2.2-inch clear travel toiletry bag strictly follows TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on bag of all airlines, see-through & reinforced seams, sturdy zipper & bigger top opening, and portable & reusable.  Travel Inspira Luggage Scale, Portable Digital Hanging Baggage Scale Suitcase Weight Scale with Rubber Paint, 110 Pounds, Battery Included. A portable digital hanging baggage scale helps you avoid overweight baggage fees by allowing you to check your luggage weight before you travel. It ensures you’re within airline weight limits, making your trip smoother and preventing last-minute packing issues. Rainleaf Microfiber Towel Perfect Travel  Quick Dry – Super Absorbent – Ultra Compact – Lightweight. A microfiber towel is perfect for travel because it’s compact, lightweight, and highly absorbent, drying quickly and taking up minimal space in your luggage.  TRTL Travel and Airplane Pillow Real Sleeping Experience on Long Flights – Neck and Shoulder Support – Super-Soft, Lightweight, Easy-to-Carry, and Machine-Washable Flight Pillow. This brand and the one below are highly recommended by many travelers. Bringing a travel pillow on long flights provides essential neck and head support, making long flights or road trips more comfortable.  Cabeau The Neck’s Evolution, TNE S3 Travel Neck Pillow Memory Foam Airplane Pillow – Neck Pillow with Attachment Straps – 360-Degree Support for Travel, Home, Office, and Gaming. This brand and the one above are highly recommended by many travelers. Bringing a travel pillow on long flights provides essential neck and head support, making long flights or road trips more comfortable.  Basic Concept Footrest (Memory Foam) Adjustable Foot Hammock for Airplane Travel Accessories, Desk Foot Hammock, Travel Footrest, Comfy Foot Hanger Airplane. Traveling with a footrest can significantly enhance comfort, especially on long flights or bus rides. It helps improve circulation by elevating your feet, reducing leg fatigue and swelling, and allowing you to find a more comfortable sitting position. Gear Aid Hero Clip, Carabiner Clip   I love my hero clip. I allow me to hang my bag or other items in different places, keeping them off the ground and within reach.  MZOO Sleep Eye Mask for Men Women Zero Eye Pressure 3D Sleeping Mask, 100% Light Blocking Patented Design Night Blindfold, Soft Eye Shade Cover for Travel in black. Traveling with a sleep mask helps you block out light, making it easier to rest or sleep, whether you’re on a plane, train, bus, or hotel rooms. Hydra Pak Stow (500ml, 17oz) – Collapsible Water Bottle Ultralight & Packable Travel Bottle. Traveling with a collapsible water bottle is convenient because it saves space when not in use, easily fitting into your bag or pocket. It’s also eco-friendly, allowing you to stay hydrated on the go without relying on single-use plastic bottles. We brought this on our recent trip to Africa and used the entire time while camping in Namibia. Protect Life First Aid Kit We never leave home without a first aid kit. Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Wireless Audio Transmitter Receiver For Air Pods or Wireless Headphones – Use with Any 3.5 mm Audio Jack for Airplanes, Gym Equipment, TVs, iPad/Tablets and Auto. A wireless audio transmitter and

The Best Time to Go: Choosing Your Perfect Travel Season Some people have the flexibility in their jobs and lifestyles to choose the perfect time to take their vacations, while others have less control over their schedules. There is no ideal time to travel; the best time is when you’re ready to take that trip! Whether you’ve just decided to take a leap or have been planning for years, the world awaits you once you’re prepared. Fortunately, our beautiful world is open to visitors all year round, and each season presents its own unique atmosphere and experiences. In travel industry terms, the year is divided into three distinct seasons: peak season, shoulder season, and off-season. Each period has its advantages and disadvantages. Regardless of when you decide to visit, the world is always lively with people, offering ample opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture and embark on new adventures. Peak Season Traveling during peak season, when popular destinations are bustling and prices are at their peak, is an adventure. This is when the weather is usually at its best, and many cities and towns host their most significant festivals, concerts, and events, adding a vibrant touch to your travel experience.  Pros:  The best weather conditions usually align with peak season in most destinations, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and beach visits. Many cities and towns host their most significant festivals, concerts, and events. Immersing yourself in local culture and traditions can enhance your travel experience. Peak season often brings longer daylight hours, giving you more time to explore and enjoy your chosen destination. Many attractions and services operate at their fullest, offering visitors the complete experience, including museums, special tours, performances, and seasonal menus. With more travelers and locals out and about, there are more significant opportunities for social interaction and meeting new people. Peak season presents ample chances to make connections, whether you’re exploring a big city or at the beach. Peak season often brings a vibrant nightlife scene, with clubs, bars, and restaurants buzzing with activity late into the evening. Cons: Popular destinations can become crowded, making it necessary to book accommodations and attractions well in advance. Prices increase because of the heightened demand for travel and accommodation during peak season.  Planning is essential for securing reservations and ensuring you can get the most out of your trip. Traveling during peak season can be incredibly rewarding. I recall our visit to Rome in the summer. Despite the heat, the city was pulsating with energy, and there were countless exciting events and activities. With careful planning and realistic expectations, you can create unforgettable memories and truly experience the essence of the places you visit. Shoulder Season Stepping into the shoulder season, between the busy peak season and the quieter off-season, is like entering a peaceful oasis. The pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices create a serene atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed and intimate travel experience.  Shoulder season typically features pleasant weather, making it ideal for comfortably exploring outdoor and indoor attractions. As tourist numbers decrease after peak season, you’ll encounter fewer crowds at popular attractions, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience. With demand lower than during peak season, accommodation and airfare prices are more affordable, helping you save on travel expenses. There will be greater availability for hotels, restaurants, and activities, giving you more flexibility in planning your itinerary and making reservations. Shoulder season often coincides with lesser-known local events and festivals that offer an authentic taste of the destination’s culture. In some regions, shoulder season aligns with seasonal transitions such as autumn foliage or spring blooms, offering stunning natural scenery and photo opportunities. Traveling during the shoulder season allows you to experience a calmer and more budget-friendly destination. I remember when I visited Paris during this time, the weather was perfect for outdoor activities, and I didn’t have to worry about long queues or crowded attractions. I was able to enjoy a unique, less-crowded travel experience and immerse myself in the local culture. Off-Season Traveling during the off-season, typically when tourist numbers are at their lowest, offers many advantages for those seeking a different travel experience. While some destinations may have cooler or wetter weather or fewer daylight hours during this time, there are numerous benefits to embracing off-season travel. Off-season brings lower demand, often resulting in savings in airfare, accommodations, and attractions. Popular destinations become much quieter during the off-season, allowing you to explore landmarks and attractions at your own pace. Traveling during the off-season can offer the chance to experience a destination from a different perspective, often with seasonal activities such as winter sports or holiday markets. With fewer tourists, you’ll have greater chances to engage with locals and experience the genuine facets of a destination. The lower demand for travel during this time of year means you have even more flexibility in planning your itinerary and securing reservations, often on shorter notice. Traveling in the off-season can offer a calmer and more tranquil environment, perfect for those seeking relaxation and a break from the crowds. Traveling during the off-season presents different challenges, such as potential changes in weather and limited availability for certain outdoor activities. However, it can also be a rewarding way to explore new places, offering a quieter, more affordable, and often more authentic experience. You can make the most of your off-season travels by planning and being open to adventures. Note: My family traveled to Kenya for a safari during the off-season. This is the only time we can travel due to school and work schedules. During my research and while planning the trip with the companies I talked to and the websites, I repeatedly heard that it is the rainy season and that there is no guarantee of seeing the animals. The animals don’t look for food when there’s plenty of water. Well, what happened during this trip was nothing short of spectacular. It only rained for one day, and it was our travel day! During our game drives, there were fewer

Travel Insurance 101: Essential Tips for Peace of Mind   Ensuring your trip with travel insurance is not just a good idea; it’s a source of peace of mind. A comprehensive trip insurance policy acts as a safety net, protecting your nonrefundable, prepaid plans—such as flights, hotel stays, and excursions—if your trip is canceled for a covered reason. If you’ve already paid for something and can’t get your money back, travel insurance can help you recover those costs. While travel insurance is a wise investment, it’s only sometimes necessary. It’s about having the flexibility to choose. For instance, you may not need additional coverage if you travel domestically and have comprehensive health insurance. Similarly, travel insurance might not be worth the cost if you’re booking a last-minute trip and can easily change or cancel your plans. Understanding your scenarios can help you save your hard-earned cash and feel empowered in your travel decisions. Whether you need to purchase travel insurance depends on your specific circumstances. Travel insurance is an excellent way to safeguard the money you’ve invested in your vacation. But remember, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. You can choose the level of coverage that suits your needs, giving you peace of mind without breaking the bank. Understanding your specific circumstances is vital to making an informed decision. A comprehensive travel insurance plan safeguards your nonrefundable reservations, including prepaid excursions, flights, and accommodations. However, if your trip does not involve any nonrefundable bookings, travel insurance may not be necessary. International travel medical insurance policies typically include emergency medical expenses such as medical treatment, an ambulance, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, and prescription medications. In the worst-case scenario, it will also cover an emergency evacuation. The emergency evacuation benefit is significant in extreme situations where you need to be transported back to your home country for medical treatment that is not available locally.  Most domestic medical insurance policies do not cover medical expenses incurred outside the U.S. If you want medical coverage during an international vacation, purchasing a separate travel medical insurance policy is a good option. International trips. Consider this:  You’re on a two-week trip to Nepal to hike the Annapurna Circuit and then wrap up your journey in India. An unforeseen injury, such as altitude sickness, could require urgent medical attention and even force you to return home earlier than planned. In such scenarios, comprehensive travel insurance, which includes trip interruption and emergency medical coverage, becomes essential. For those who enjoy thrilling adventures, if your travel itinerary includes exciting activities like skydiving, mountain biking, scuba diving, or bungee jumping, opting for a plan that covers adventure sports is a wise choice. Additionally, if your trip involves carrying valuable items such as expensive jewelry, sports equipment, or tech gadgets, it’s prudent to invest in travel insurance for added protection. These are just a few examples of the types of things and activities that travel insurance can cover. Here are two scenarios when Travel Insurance is a great idea. True stories! Scenario 1: A friend of a friend recently traveled to Central America on a hiking trip. This group of travelers consists of experienced hikers who are physically fit and have explored extreme trails worldwide. During one of their hikes, the friend unfortunately fell and suffered a hip fracture. She was taken to the hospital immediately for urgent medical attention and was later airlifted back to the United States for surgery. Without travel insurance, she faced a staggering out-of-pocket expense totaling around $40,000. This situation underscores the importance of having travel insurance, particularly for those engaging in adventurous activities in foreign countries, as it can offer essential financial support in case of unforeseen injuries or emergencies. Scenario 2: Nathan and I were lucky to survive a car accident while traveling in Cape Town, South Africa. On the way back to the hotel, our rental car overturned, a sudden and unexpected turn of events. We were grateful no one was hurt, but the two vehicles were totaled. Our experience with travel insurance in a car accidentin a car accident in Cape Town, South Africa, highlighted its value. We were reassured and felt secure knowing that our medical expenses were covered and that we didn’t have to worry about the financial implications of the accident. This incident underscored the importance of travel insurance in providing peace of mind during unforeseen circumstances when traveling abroad. Another thing to note is that buying insurance when renting a car is a great idea! Advantages of Travel Insurance: Trip Cancellation Coverage: Travel plans can change unexpectedly for various reasons, such as illness, natural disasters, or emergencies. Travel insurance can reimburse you for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses if you must cancel your trip for a covered reason. Emergency Medical Expenses: If you fall ill or get injured while traveling, especially in a foreign country where healthcare costs can be high, travel insurance can cover your medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, and medications. Medical Evacuation and Repatriation: In a severe medical emergency where local medical facilities are inadequate, travel insurance can cover the cost of medically necessary evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility or repatriation to your home country. Lost or Delayed Baggage: Travel insurance can cover lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, helping you recover the cost of essential items or compensate for the inconvenience. Travel Delay or Interruption: If your trip is delayed or interrupted due to severe weather, natural disasters, or transportation strikes, travel insurance can reimburse you for additional expenses, such as accommodation, meals, and transportation. Emergency Assistance Services: Many travel insurance plans offer 24/7 emergency assistance services, providing access to a helpline for medical referrals, travel assistance, legal assistance, and other emergency support while traveling. Coverage for Adventure Activities: If you plan to engage in adventurous or high-risk activities such as skiing, scuba diving, or mountain climbing, travel insurance can cover potential injuries or accidents related to these activities. Financial Protection for Travel Investment: Travel can involve significant financial investments in flights, accommodations,

Essential Travel Tips: How to Plan the Perfect Itinerary Although it may initially sound daunting to the inexperienced, creating a day-by-day itinerary for a trip is a fulfilling task. This process, which I find very enjoyable, allows you to research the details of your destination, transforming your travel wish list into a tangible plan. It’s a form of armchair travel that paves the way for real adventures, giving you a profound sense of accomplishment and control over your travel plans.  A well-structured plan is not a constraint but a tool that enhances your travel experience. Before going on a trip, I meticulously plan each day, which I find pleasurable and reassuring. This approach allows you to be flexible and adjust as needed while providing you with a clear understanding of how any changes impact the rest of the trip. An itinerary is not a rigid schedule; it’s a roadmap that allows you to be spontaneous and confident as you navigate unforeseen disruptions.  While crafting your itinerary, it’s crucial to remember the need for flexibility. Many factors, such as weather, crowds, geography, timing, and personal preferences, will inevitably influence your plans. Whether you crave new experiences or are someone who prefers to get lost and wander in a place for a few days, it’s essential to be adaptable. This mindset will help you make the most of your trip and prepare you for any changes that might come your way. Before your trip, consider learning about your destination’s local customs, traditions, and etiquette to handle culture shock. This way, you can avoid unintentional cultural faux pas and feel more comfortable and respectful during your visit. Itinerary Considerations:  When planning a trip itinerary, consider the weather, culture shock, health needs, fatigue, public holidays, and local festivals to enhance your travel experience.  Make a logical transatlantic flight plan.  If your trip covers a large area, flying into one airport and departing from another is always a good idea. This strategy can save time and money by avoiding a round-trip return to your starting point, streamlining your plans, and reducing unnecessary travel time and costs. For example, if you’re planning to visit multiple European countries, flying into one city and departing from another is more efficient than backtracking to your original destination. This way, you can maximize your time and spend less on transportation. I originally planned to fly from Nairobi, Kenya, to Windhoek, Namibia, during our recent trip to Africa. But with no direct flights available, I would have lost a day in transit with several layovers. By exploring different flight options, I chose to fly from Nairobi to Cape Town instead, saving time and money. This approach reduced the hassle and expense of traveling to our next destination. Match your destination with your interests.  Whether you’re a fan of Renaissance art, a lover of big-city vibes, an avid hiker, or a shopping enthusiast, there is always a destination that’s perfect for you. The key is choosing places that resonate with you and sparking excitement in your travel plans. Your trip should reflect your passions and interests, making it all the more memorable and enjoyable. Plan for (or around) festivals. Many countries host festivals worth planning your trip for. Want to run with the bulls in Pamplona? Celebrate Diwali in India. Experience Taiwan’s Lantern Festival. Or perhaps join the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro? Our beautiful world offers many vibrant festivals yearly, from massive city celebrations to tranquil, scenic traditions. Experienced travelers know to look for festivals that can create unique, unforgettable experiences—good and bad. To find the best festivals, consider using travel guides, local tourism websites, and social media platforms to stay updated on upcoming events and plan your trip accordingly. Similarly, watch out for public holidays that could lead to closures or limited options for dining, which can be avoided with careful planning. We spent Christmas in Seville, Spain, when the kids were young. Most restaurants were closed on Christmas Day, and we only found a few open tourist spots, meaning a hefty price tag for only mediocre quality. To handle public holidays, consider checking the local holiday calendar of your destination and planning your activities and meals accordingly. This way, you can avoid any inconvenience and make the most of your trip. Consider your mode(s) of transportation. When planning your itinerary, decide how you will move around. Are you on a road trip? Check on rental cars and driving times to ensure each leg of the trip is realistic. If taking the train, verify train schedules and plan your route. Avoid booking until you know the schedule and timing and have enough time to travel from point A to point B. Always be sure to check local public transit options, too.  Minimize one-night stays. Even the fastest itineraries should include two-night stays. An early morning drive or train ride can help you settle into a town for two nights, giving you a full day to explore without interruption. Depending on the distance, using one town as a home base for day trips is more time-efficient than frequently changing locations and hotels. Leave wiggle room in your itinerary. Avoid overloading your schedule (a common pitfall, and I am sometimes guilty). Daily errands, work-related tasks, travel hiccups, and planning missteps can warrant allowing about a day of flexibility per week in your itinerary. Plan a “downtime from your vacation” in the middle for extended trips. Most people benefit from a few days in a spot without feeling pressure to visit museums or go on tours. A stop in the mountains or on an island, a friendly rural town, or even staying with a friend can refresh your enthusiasm for travel. Assume you will return. Don’t stress about not seeing everything—just savor the moment. The memories you create will stay with you longer than taking too many photos on a hurried tour. Your Best Itinerary in Seven Steps:  Choosing between travel destinations can be like being a kid in a candy shop—there are so many tempting options, but trying to

Hotels to Hostels: Tips for Choosing the Best Accommodations When organizing your travel accommodations, consider your budget and preferences to explore various options. For those on a budget, hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels offer basic amenities at affordable rates. Vacation rentals and platforms like VRBO provide cost-effective solutions, particularly for family or group travel. Mid-range options include boutique or reputable chain hotels, offering comfort with added perks like breakfast and Wi-Fi. Luxury seekers can indulge in upscale hotels with premium spas and gourmet dining services. Secure the best deals by booking in advance and watching for promotions. Tailor your experience by reading reviews, booking ahead, and staying informed about policies. Flexibility and confirmation before your trip ensure a smooth journey.  Here’s a checklist for effective planning: Establish your accommodation budget to guide your selection process and eliminate options outside your financial range. You can choose between hotels, hostels, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, or other options based on your budget, desired amenities, and preferred experience. Research your destination to identify available accommodations and determine the best areas to stay, considering factors like proximity to attractions, safety, and access to transportation. Check reviews and ratings on reputable websites and booking platforms to assess the quality and reliability of potential accommodations. Book your accommodations early to secure favorable rates and ensure availability, particularly during peak travel times. Opt for accommodations near your planned attractions and activities and consider proximity to public transportation for added convenience. Compare options and select those that align with your preferences to prioritize amenities such as free Wi-Fi, breakfast, or fitness facilities. Take advantage of promotions and package deals offered by hotels and travel sites, which may include discounted rates on tours or complimentary meals, to enhance your travel experience while saving money. Before committing to your choice, thoroughly review the accommodation’s policies regarding cancellations, check-in/out times, and other regulations to ensure peace of mind. Familiarity with these terms can prevent surprises, guaranteeing a seamless and stress-free stay. Maintain flexibility with travel dates and lodging selections to uncover better deals and explore more options. Contact the accommodation a few days before departure to confirm your reservation and inquire about any special requirements or updates. For instance, they may inform you of altered check-in procedures or upcoming events during your stay. Staying informed about these changes aids in trip preparation. Travel accommodations cater to diverse preferences, budgets, and styles. Here are some of the most common types: NOTE: I like HOTELS.COM and EXPEDIA when researching for a good rate for hotels. They usually have a competitive rate and have bought from these websites before. Hotels: Spanning various budgets, hotels provide a range of amenities from economical to luxurious, including housekeeping, room service, and dining options. Travelers who want comfort and convenience favor them.  Budget Hotels: Offering essential accommodations at affordable rates, budget hotels feature clean rooms, private bathrooms, and minimal services. Though lacking in luxuries, they present excellent value for budget-conscious travelers. Mid-Range Hotels: Balancing cost and comfort, mid-range hotels offer more amenities than budget options, such as complimentary breakfast, fitness centers, and on-site dining. Rooms are well-appointed with features like flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges. Independently owned hotels are known for their attention to detail, distinctive designs, and individualized service. Often found in trendy or historic areas, they prioritize creating a memorable guest experience. Luxury Hotels: These hotels provide premium accommodations and exceptional service. They offer spacious, elegantly decorated rooms with top-notch furnishings. Amenities include fine-dining restaurants, spas, and concierge services. Extended-stay hotels cater to long-term guests like business travelers or relocators. They offer apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, separate living areas, and laundry facilities for a homely feel. Resort Hotels: Designed for comprehensive vacation experiences, resort hotels boast amenities like pools, spas, golf courses, and dining options on-site. Situated in scenic locales, they cater to leisure and relaxation travelers. Conference and Convention Hotels: These hotels are tailored for business travelers and large groups attending events. They feature extensive meeting spaces, business centers, support services, and amenities for leisure guests. Apart from these designated categories, hotels typically offer a range of amenities, such as: Housekeeping: Standard daily cleaning and upkeep services keep rooms fresh and comfortable for guests. Complimentary Wi-Fi, breakfast, fitness centers, and on-site dining options often accompany these services. Room Service: Many hotels extend room service, enabling guests to order meals directly to their rooms for added convenience. On-Site Dining: Hotels commonly have one or more restaurants and bars offering guests dining and beverage options. Fitness and Wellness: Some hotels furnish fitness centers and occasionally include spas, pools, or wellness classes, aiming to enrich the guest experience by facilitating fitness routines or relaxation opportunities. Concierge Services: High-end hotels offer concierge services to aid guests with reservations, recommendations, and tailored requests, enhancing the overall stay experience. Overall, hotels present a comprehensive and convenient lodging choice for travelers, catering to various needs and preferences through diverse categories and amenities. Hostels: Popular among backpackers and solo travelers, hostels offer economical accommodations, often featuring shared rooms and communal spaces conducive to social interaction. Vacation Rentals: Homes, apartments, or condos available for short or extended stays provide a more homelike experience, suitable for families or groups seeking flexibility and comfort. NOTE: I like using VRBO and have used them on many occasions. The most recent booking with them was at Diani Beach in Kenya. The house we stayed in had 3 bedrooms, a pool, air conditioning (which was very important in the Kenyan summer) and came with a maid too.  Bed and breakfasts (B&Bs): B&Bs frequently have local owners who provide individualized hospitality in a comfortable, homey setting that typically includes breakfast. Inns: Resembling B&Bs, inns are frequently situated in picturesque or rural locales, providing a charming retreat for guests seeking tranquility and scenic surroundings. Campsites and RV Parks: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, campsites and RV parks offer spaces for tent camping or parking recreational vehicles, often located amidst natural settings such as national parks. Agritourism Stays: Set on working farms, these

Ultimate Travel Lodging Guide: Stories and Tips for Every Budget Accommodations are a significant expense on any vacation, but you don’t have to break the bank to find a comfortable place to stay. Depending on when you go, you may find great deals on lodging if you plan accordingly.  Let me share some personal experiences. I used to travel without reservations. Wandering from city to city in Europe, Asia, South America, and India at that time was relatively ramshackle; things were cheaper, and fewer people could afford to travel for fun, so there was less competition for budget rooms. I could make itinerary decisions on the fly, show up in a new town, browse a handful of lodging choices, and pick affordable, perfectly acceptable rooms. There’s only one place in India where this go-with-the-flow did not work out for me. No rooms were available, and the entire city of Bangalore was booked. It is a long story, but it has a happy ending. But we’ll get to that story later. Once, I met a few European and American travelers while traveling alone in India. We were all traveling to Hampi, so we decided to go together. We found only one small hotel, and no rooms were available when we arrived. However, they offered to let us stay on the rooftop! We camped out on the roof and paid $1 a night—to this day, I’ll still brag about that deal! Solo Travel If you travel solo or during the low season to less-crowded destinations, there is room for spontaneity. Book your lodging as you go! However, plan and make the reservations beforehand if traveling with family or a group. If you’re planning to travel during peak season, such as a visit to Europe during the summer, booking accommodations in advance for the first few nights is a good idea. This strategy helps you avoid the stress of finding a room while you’re still jet-lagged and also ensures you start your trip on a comfortable note. After your initial stay, you can book your next hotel once you have a more precise itinerary. Secure a room in the morning to ensure you have a place to stay that night; this way, you can enjoy your day of sightseeing and travel with peace of mind. Your neighborhood choice, especially in a bustling city like Rome, is a crucial factor that can dramatically influence your overall travel experience. A little research can go a long way toward finding the perfect location. What are your interests? If you travel with kids, find places they want to visit. Do you want to stay where all the main attractions are within walking distance? Check out a guidebook from your local library and see what aligns with your travel philosophy. Or check out travel blogs and review sites offering firsthand insights and experiences.  Family Travel or Group Travel If you’re traveling with your family or a group, a vacation rental, Airbnb, or VRBO may be more cost-effective. However, I read the fine print and asked questions. I booked an Airbnb when we spent four nights in Dubrovnik. The rental description stated it is a “10-minute walk from the Old Town and has a terrace with a great view.” Although we had a fantastic view overlooking Lokrum Island, the 10-minute walk was a bit of a stretch. The Airbnb was on the western wall above the Old Town, and going up and down the steep, near-vertical stairs got old after the first day. It was tiring then, but it was a fun story in retrospect! In addition to standard booking methods, some websites, like HotelTonight, specialize in last-minute rooms. You can also ask your current hosts for recommendations on accommodations at your next destination. They may even call around to check availability. The best time to contact your next hotel is around 9 or 10 a.m., when the receptionist will know who is checking out and which rooms are available. Most places, especially Europe, provide diverse accommodation options, including hotels (ranging from small to large and simple to luxurious), cozy bed and breakfasts, distinctive guest houses, budget-friendly hostels, and rental apartments. Additionally, you can find unique accommodations such as monasteries, campgrounds, house swaps, airport sofas, and even free couches (if you look hard enough!). No matter your preference, there’s likely a perfect home away from home for you. While Europe is no longer exclusively a budget backpacker’s paradise, budget-conscious travelers can still access thousands of hostels offering inexpensive beds where you can share a room with others for, on average, less than $50 per night. Short-term vacation rentals Apartments, houses, or rooms in private residences are popular alternatives to hotels, especially for families or groups planning to stay in one location for several nights. Rental choices range from French gîtes and Tuscan villas to big-city apartments and basic rooms in a local’s home. Rentals often offer comparable or even cheaper options than hotels with similar amenities. Opting for a rental gives you an authentic experience, but it’s only for some. You will usually handle most logistics independently in rentals, as the property owner or manager may provide limited support. If you prefer daily amenities like fresh towels and breakfast served to you, a hotel may be a better choice. Rentals often require longer booking commitments and offer limited cancellation flexibility. Hostels Don’t hesitate to consider “youth” hostels because you’re older than their typical clientele. As long as you’re alive, you’re young enough to stay in a hostel anywhere in the world, as most hostels do not enforce age limits. Many seniors and families are discovering the benefits of hosteling. Hosteling can be a cost-effective way to travel and cater to various age groups if you are okay with communal living and dorm-style accommodations. Access to a kitchen can also help reduce your food budget. Many travelers, including solo older adventurers, appreciate hostels for the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers worldwide.  Hosteling embraces a communal and affordable approach to accommodation, allowing