Unique Travel Tips for Every Budget

No Monkeying Around!

Here’s a compilation of my top 10 11 12 travel suggestions... In this guide, I'll concentrate on advice you won't commonly find on standard travel websites.

1. Track Your Travel. Utilize the app Been to monitor your travel history. I owe this tip to one of my Aussie pals I met on a free tour in Bratislava.

2. Free Tours. That reminds me, always check out free tour companies!

3. Finding Cheap Flights. If you're flexible about your travel destinations, consider using the "fly anywhere" feature in Google Flights or Kayak.

4. Finding Cheap Places to Stay. To find affordable yet excellent accommodations, check out Google Hotels, Agoda, and Airbnb. On Google, search for places with 4+ reviews; on Agoda, spots rated 8+ typically work well, but aim for places with ratings over 9 if possible - don’t forget to check the reviews on Google to ensure they meet the 4+ standard. On Airbnb, filter your searches to book the entire home (unless you’re okay with sharing a room or bathroom). Look for ratings close to 5.0 - I wouldn’t book anywhere with a rating below 4.5.

5. Finding Cheap Rental Cars. I recommend Autoslash.

6. Dress Comfortably, but Nice. Dress comfortably but steer clear of looking too casual, especially while traveling in Europe where appearance does matter. Among my travel outfit favorites (bear in mind, I'm 5'2"): joggers, hoodies, and matching sets.

7. Sleep! Neck pillows haven’t worked for me. I suggest purchasing an inflatable pillow that lets your head naturally lean forward. How many times have we dozed off on a plane only to be repeatedly jolted awake when our heads tip forward?

8. Free Global Entry Hack. Enroll in Global Entry to ease your airport security experience. If you can’t afford it or simply prefer not to pay the fee, I feel you! Consider acquiring the United Airlines credit card - and let them cover it - just remember to cancel after the first year to bypass the annual charge.

9. Lounges. Have a lengthy layover? Treat yourself to lounge access. Generally, it costs around $50, and you’ll be treated to unlimited drinks, snacks, meals, dependable wi-fi, and a cozy, calm space to await your flight. Make sure to use the lounges that are affiliated with your airline unless you’re fortunate enough to have Centurion access, among others. Just a note - besides complimentary Global Entry, the United Airlines credit card also grants you 2 complimentary lounge passes when you register for their card.

10. Google Maps is (mostly) your Friend. Use Google Maps to assist in planning your journey. Select the city or country you plan to visit and hit "attractions." Click on any that are nearby or appear intriguing to help structure your itinerary. Remember to save it as a favorite!

11. Comfy Kicks. Don't wear just any sneakers. Choose ones that are comfortable to walk in for miles without causing pain or blisters! These are my preferred brand and style for travel - as well as daily wear.

12. Forgettable Items. And don’t forget to pack a swimsuit - you never know when you might need it unexpectedly! Bringing an extra pair of your prescription glasses is also not a bad idea.