Travel has been a big part of my life for decades, although I've never traveled for more than six months at a time. By the fall of 2025, I will have visited 70 countries. There are probably 30 other places I'd like to visit, so I don't plan to stop traveling anytime soon. I've finally compiled a list of my favorite travel resources that you might find useful for your own travels.
As any traveler knows, researching and booking flights takes a lot of time. My list of travel resources is drawn from those I or friends personally rely on. It changes from time to time as technology advances, and companies go in and out of business.
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In Canada Erallo It seems to be the eSim of choice. I personally haven't used it yet but my friends who have traveled to Europe swear by it. Think about how much data you'll need and how long you plan to travel as both factors affect pricing.
Other popular applications of eSim cards for travel are water, Nomad eSIM and Hello Sim.
Electronic chip number It is an application that allows users to purchase a second phone number to use while traveling. It's a good option if you want to keep your main number private.
Travel equipment
Packing cubes – Nothing like packing cubes to stay organized. I like the different sizes but I don't find the small sizes useful – nor the very large ones, but maybe that's just me.
Noise canceling headphones -If you're sensitive to noise – whether on a plane or in a hotel with thin walls, noise-canceling headphones could save your mind.
Chaco sandal – Every six to seven years I buy a new pair of Chaco sandals. I like the fact that they have arch support. Good traction and they never stink.
Kipling women's travel bag -I have been using this slim wallet for years. I love the two front zippered pockets, which are large enough to hold my passport and reading glasses. The 12-24 inch cross body belt will fit many body types.
30 liter backpack -I like the 30L backpack because it can hold all 10 of my hiking essentials, and if I'm traveling, I can put my computer in it. the Mountain warehouse The option also comes with a built-in rain cover, which is a big plus in my books.
Expandable – I've been using two TUMI bags for about 20 years – but they changed the interior, and the newer bags are not as roomy. Check the hard side Samsonite Freeform With double spinner wheels that expand.
Kindle Paperwhite – The lightest, most compact Kindle with glare-free reading. A must for travel. Long battery life too.
Universal travel adapter – Four conversion plugs for more than 210 countries. Can be used for voltage 110-240. It comes with 4 regular USB ports and a Type-C fast charging port.
Travel insurance
Safety suite – Affordable travel insurance starts from US$38 per month, but it all depends on your age and how long you will be abroad.
When it comes to flights, I usually book directly with the airline because I feel like I have more leverage. But I check other websites for deals and to see which airlines fly between different cities. Watch out for all the hidden baggage and cancellation fees in the future.
Teacher's seat -This is one of the best travel resources that I recommend you check out before purchasing seats. It shows you which ones to avoid.
Kayak It is one of the largest and most widely used search engines for airline ticket prices. Check them before going to the individual airlines.
SkyScanner – A particularly useful flight tool for flights from or within Europe.
Car rental
Expedia – I use Expedia frequently Car rental. I find their website easy to navigate and they are very upfront about whether payment is in advance or cash on delivery.
project – I go to the car rental company especially when John and I travel together – as there is no additional cost to add the husband as another driver.
Discover cars – Lots of good deals and free cancellation but most of the car rentals on their site are prepaid. Great for last minute rentals.
Camp reservations – If you've missed your campsite reservation at many of Canada's national and provincial parks, sign up with us Schnerb. Their software scans for campsite cancellations and tells you right away. Another option is campnap. It monitors cancellations at both Canadian and US parks.
Trusted house sitters -If you are looking for a home care service or want to prepare your home for home care, this is one of the most popular platforms.
Bedouin – Another site I used because it has a rating system for each house sitter – which helps with confidence.
Home care providers -I have used Housecarers many times for both home and pet boarding with great success.
Hostelworld -I've outgrown hostels, but I stayed in my fair share of them when I was younger. It's great for saving money and meeting kindred spirits.
Booking.com – This is my accommodation booking site – one of my top travel resources. You can get good discounts on some hotels if you book with them frequently. Cancellation policies are clearly laid out as well.
Expedia – Sometimes I book hotels on Expedia and can't find them on other sites. I use them frequently for car rentals and flights.
Airbnb -I use it occasionally although I know it is a very popular booking site, especially for unique properties.
Agoda – Check them out if you are heading to Asia as their prices are usually very good.
Wandering around
International driving license -Do you have a driving license? Then you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in another country – e.g Those listed here – Without the need to take tests or submit other requests. In Canada, this is done quickly through the CAA and… AMA Travel.
Rome2Rio – I use this site when I'm trying to figure out all my options for getting from point A to point B. It is especially useful when you are visiting countries for the first time.
wise – This is the best way to send or receive money abroad in 2025. Fees are low and exchange rates are good.
monetary -I always carry small bills when I travel. The best rates in Canada are usually not with your bank but with Calforex.
Diverse travel resources
The man points – Find out how to maximize all the points and miles you've earned through car rentals, hotels, flights, credit cards and more.
Free walking tours – Book budget and free tours with local guides.
Nike Training Club – It is called the best free fitness app with categories categorized by intensity.
center – The best all-around fitness app of 2025 comes at $29.99 per month. It has a huge library of strength training, HIIT workouts, and cardio sessions.
Useful links
Do you have any travel tips or resources that would be a good addition to this post?
