The Wanderer's Guidebook: Essential Travel Resources
Arm yourself with the essential resources needed for a successful trip. Discover my top travel resources, planning workflow, favourite apps and handy travel hacks!
Welcome, fellow explorers 👋🏾 Over the past year I’ve been fortunate enough to visit 20+ cities and take 25+ flights. From researching destinations and creating itineraries to securing great deals on transport and accommodation, and from managing finances and data to exploring travel apps and essential items, this guide will take you through every step of the planning process.
Section I: Researching Destinations and Creating a Travel Itinerary:
When planning your travels and seeking valuable insights and recommendations, there are several helpful online resources available. Typically my workflow will look something like this:
Smart Traveller: Smart Traveller is a tool created by the Australian Government that offers valuable information on visa requirements and the risk profile of specific destinations. I'll use this to determine what paperwork I need and how safe it is to enter a country.
TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor is a popular travel platform that provides a wealth of information, including user-generated reviews, ratings, and rankings for accommodations, attractions, and restaurants. I typically utilise TripAdvisor to identify the main interests of a city when determining whether to visit or not.
WikiTravel: WikiTravel is a comprehensive website offering peer-reviewed information on destinations worldwide. It provides practical advice, local transportation details, taxi fare tips, and must-visit attractions recommendations. Once I've settled on a city, it gives me the logistical information to plan my trip.
Time Out: Time Out is a reputable platform that offers recommendations for activities, food and drinks, arts, and culture. Whether you're looking for trendy restaurants, local events, or unique experiences, Time Out provides curated suggestions to help you make the most of your destination. This will help me pick out some interesting spots for food and unique activities there.
Wanderlog: Wanderlog combines the functionalities of Trip Advisor, a personal diary, and a budgeting tool. With Wanderlog, you can easily plan and organise your trips, keep track of your itinerary, and manage your expenses. Additionally, it offers a convenient feature where you can forward attachments, and the platform will automatically populate relevant information. I'll typically take all the research I've undertaken from steps 1-4 and populate a basic itinerary with the information.
Section II: Securing Great Deals on Transport and Accommodation
Finding great travel and accommodation options can be challenging. Here are my top resources when it comes to planning the two:
Travel:
Google Flights: Regarding finding affordable flights, Google Flights is an excellent choice. I love the map feature, which shows travel prices for flights to each location. Additionally, it provides a helpful graph displaying price fluctuations over time. If you are flexible with your travel dates and willing to wait for a good deal, Google Flights can be a valuable tool.
Kayak: Kayak is another fantastic option for finding inexpensive flights. The platform utilises travel agent rates, which are sometimes more budget-friendly than booking directly with the airline. One of Kayak's notable features is its colour-coding system, which makes it easy to identify the cheapest travel days.
Rome2Rio: Rome2Rio allows you to compare prices for flights, trains, buses, and ferries, giving you a comprehensive view of various travel choices. It's beneficial if you're seeking the most economical way to reach your destination or travelling to a location without an airport.
Accommodation:
Hostel World: If you're on a budget and looking for affordable accommodation options like hostels, Hostel World is your go-to website. Similar to booking.com, it specialises in sorting out inexpensive lodging for travellers.
Booking.com: Booking.com is a reliable platform that assists travellers in finding and booking various accommodations. Whether you're searching for hotels, resorts, or even hostels, this website offers a wide range of options to suit your needs. It's an excellent resource for exploring accommodation choices for your trip.
Section III: The Nitty Gritty - Finance and Data
Finance:
Here are some of the top financial products personally used by my friends and me:
Wise: Wise is a top choice for international money exchange, offering competitive exchange rates. With a user-friendly interface and a seamless experience, it has become my go-to platform for handling financial matters while travelling. It also provides a hassle-free way to transfer money between friends. Keep in mind that there are withdrawal limits and fees may apply for larger cash withdrawals, so if you need to withdraw a lot of cash, this may not be the best option,
UP Bank: With UP Bank, you can access your funds without worrying about ATM charges, even abroad. Additionally, all foreign transactions can be conducted without incurring any fees.
Western Union: Western Union can be a reliable solution when travelling to a destination experiencing economic crises with fluctuating exchange rates. It offers the option to send yourself USD and collect cash at your home currency to USD rate, bypassing the official rates offered by ATMs and other channels. This is particularly beneficial for long-term travellers who cannot carry USD with them or prefer not to.
Remember to conduct your own research, as better deals may be available at the time of reading.
Sims:
For short-term adventures, check out eSIMs like Airalo. These virtual installations provide data for specific countries and regions, making them perfect run-and-gun solutions. With easy installations and hassle-free usage, eSIMs from Airalo are ideal for those who need data during their short stays.
While they may be slightly more expensive than local SIM cards, their convenience and simplicity make them viable. And here's a pro tip: consider converting your home SIM card into an eSIM before you leave. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of both your primary SIM and the travel eSIM, keeping you connected on multiple fronts. And here's a little something extra: if you're feeling kind, you can use my referral code, VARUN9629, when you check out on Airalo.
Local SIM cards are the way to go for those planning longer journeys. They offer a range of advantages, with one standout feature being the ability to make calls to local numbers. This feature is handy for making reservations, contacting local businesses, and even reaching emergency services.
Section IV: Digital Trailblazers
These are my top travel apps that can revolutionise your journey and enhance your travel experience. These apps offer unique features and functionalities to assist you in various aspects of your trip.
Polarsteps: Create a digital travel journal effortlessly with Polarsteps. This app automatically tracks your trips using GPS, allowing you to document your journey, add photos, write captions, and share your travel progress with friends and family. It's a fantastic platform for visually showcasing travel experiences and preserving cherished memories.
PackPoint: Simplify your packing process with PackPoint. This app takes the hassle out of packing by generating personalised packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, activities, and even the expected weather. Stay organised and ensure you have everything you need for your trip.
Citymapper: Seamlessly explore new cities with Citymapper. This app offers detailed navigation guidance, including public transportation routes, schedules, and real-time updates. With Citymapper, you'll navigate unfamiliar cities like a local, making the most of your travel experience.
Google Translate: Overcome language barriers with the help of Google Translate. This app enables you to translate text, speech, and even images in real-time, making communicating and navigating unfamiliar environments easier. I typically used it for basic phrases as well as translating menus!
Google Maps: Navigate your way through cities using Google Maps, which provides comprehensive mapping and navigation services. In many developed countries, it also includes real-time public transit information, helping you efficiently plan your journeys using various modes of transportation.
Section V: Travel smart!
My top ten travel tips include safety, navigation, health, and cultural awareness, to help you make the most of your trip while staying secure and informed.
Secure Your Luggage with Airtags or Chipolo: One essential travel tip is investing in Airtags or Chipolo for your luggage. These tracking devices can be a lifesaver, especially when travelling with stopovers. Luggage often goes missing during transit, and having a tracking device can significantly increase the chances of recovering your belongings.
Stay Vigilant Against Pickpocketing in Foreign Cities: The homeless population and theft rates can be high in some foreign cities. To protect yourself from pickpocketing incidents, consider carrying a bumbag (a fanny pack) to secure your valuables. Be particularly mindful around big tourist attractions and crowded transit, and keep valuables out of your back pockets.
Carry Emergency Cash in Off-the-Beaten-Track Locations: When venturing into remote or less safe areas, carrying a small amount of cash in case you run into trouble is advisable. Enough to pay for a taxi or ticket back to your hotel is advisable.
Make Copies of Your Passport: Before travelling, make a colour photocopy of your passport and keep it with you while leaving the original document in your hotel safe. This practice ensures you have a backup in case your passport gets lost or stolen. A copy can expedite the replacement process at your country's embassy or consulate.
Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language: Learning a few simple words in the local language can significantly enhance your travel experience. Knowing greetings like "hello," "goodbye," and "thank you" at a minimum can make locals more friendly and receptive towards you. It shows respect for their culture and can lead to more positive interactions.
Pack a Travel Medicine Kit: Prepare a travel medicine kit with essential items such as paracetamol (pain reliever), indigestion tablets, and antihistamines (for allergies). These essential medications can come in handy when faced with common travel-related ailments, allowing you to address minor health issues quickly and continue enjoying your trip.
Pack Fresh Underwear, Socks, and a T-Shirt for Long-Haul Flights: On long-haul flights, having a change of fresh underwear, socks, and a T-shirt can make a significant difference in your comfort level. Changing into clean clothes during the journey can help you feel refreshed and more at ease, especially on extended flights with limited access to showers.
Get Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is crucial for protecting yourself against unexpected events during your trip. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance that suits your needs and destination.
Research Local Scams Before Arrival: To avoid falling victim to scams, take the time to research common scams specific to your travel destination. Search online for information about scams prevalent in the area you plan to visit. This knowledge will help you stay alert and prepared, enabling you to protect yourself and others from potential scams.
Consult Your Doctor for Travel Vaccinations: If you're visiting developing countries or regions with specific health risks, consult your doctor to determine if you need travel vaccinations. Your healthcare provider can advise you on the necessary immunisations to safeguard your health during your trip. Be proactive in ensuring you're protected against any potential diseases.
Section VI: My favourite travel items
When it comes to travelling, having the right essentials at your fingertips can make a world of difference. In this section, we'll explore some must-have items you should consider including in your everyday carry, ensuring convenience, safety, and peace of mind throughout your journey.
Universal Travel Adapter: A universal travel adapter is crucial, allowing you to charge your electronic devices no matter where you are in the world. With compatibility for various plug types, this adapter ensures you can stay connected and powered up wherever your travels take you.
Airtags or Travel Trackers: Keeping track of your belongings, precious items or important documents is essential while travelling. GPS trackers can provide an extra layer of security by allowing you to monitor the location of your items through a mobile app. This technology can help give you peace of mind, knowing your possessions are safe and traceable.
Airfly: If you enjoy using wireless headphones while travelling, an Airfly device can be a game-changer. This handy gadget lets you connect your wireless headphones to in-flight entertainment systems or other devices with a wired connection, ensuring you can enjoy your favourite movies, music, or podcasts without hassle.
Luggage Scale: Avoid the stress and inconvenience of overweight luggage by carrying a portable luggage scale. This small device allows you to weigh your bags before heading to the airport, helping you stay within the weight limits set by airlines. Accurately measuring your luggage's weight can avoid unexpected fees and ensure a smoother check-in process.
Battery Pack/Portable Charger: Keep your electronic devices powered up on the go with a reliable battery pack or portable charger. I love Anker’s range of portable chargers, personally.
Bum Bag (Fanny Pack): A bum bag, also known as a fanny pack, is a convenient and secure way to carry your essentials while exploring. Multiple compartments allow you to keep your valuables, such as your phone, wallet, and passport, close to you, reducing the risk of theft or loss. Here is an affordable one from Uniqlo.
Packing Cube: Stay organised and maximise space in your luggage with packing cubes. These lightweight and compact organisers help separate and compress your clothing, making it easier to find what you need and keep your suitcase neat and tidy throughout your trip.
Hand Sanitiser: Promote good hygiene and protect yourself from germs with a travel-sized hand sanitiser. Keeping your hands clean is essential, especially when you're on the go and may not have immediate access to soap and water.
Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste by carrying a refillable water bottle. Look for a bottle with a sturdy and leak-proof design that can be quickly filled at water stations or fountains throughout your journey. Just remember to empty your water bottle before security.
Earplugs/Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Block out unwanted noise during flights, train rides, or noisy environments with noise-cancelling earphones or earplugs. These handy accessories help create a more peaceful and restful travel experience. Here are some great budget and high-end headphone options.
Passport Holder: Safeguard your passport from damage or loss using a passport holder. They keep your passport secure and provide additional storage for cards, tickets, and other essential documents. My pro tip is to put a tracker in your passport holder so you don’t lose your passport.
Conclusion
I hope you've found valuable information and tips to help you plan your future adventures. From researching destinations and creating travel itineraries to securing great deals on transportation and accommodation and managing finances and data to embracing digital trailblazers, we've covered many essential aspects for an enjoyable journey. Our clever travel tips and must-have travel items will ensure you stay safe, prepared, and connected throughout your trips. Remember, every journey is unique, and personal preferences may vary, so adapt these tips to suit your needs and enjoy the thrill of exploration. Bon voyage and safe travels!
Special Mention
Also a special shoutout to my friend (and amazing photographer) Kevin Huynh for his contributions to this article.
What am I reading/listening to?
Own the Day, Own Your Life by Onnit founder Aubrey Marcus is an all-in-one guide for optimising your day. It provides helpful evidence-based advice on how to make the most out of your day. Whilst I personally don’t agree with everything it provides great food for thought!
Words of Wisdom
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb