La Vie de Jacquelyn contains affiliate links and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This means I may receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.
As someone who knows what it’s like to be unprepared for a trip, I’ve compiled a list of incredible travel resources I wish I had when I first started traveling. Where to look for flights, top travel essentials, where to find lodging, etc!
Best Items to Pack for a Smoother Trip
Luggage Scale – Having a luggage scale on deck is essential when traveling. It helps me know whether I have exceeded the allowed weight limit for my checked bag. With this luggage scale, I can tell how heavy my bag is before leaving the house, so I know whether I need to discard something.
Beis Luggage – The key to smooth travel is investing in quality luggage. Beis Luggage is the best luggage on the market, even better than the Away suitcases.
Portable Phone Charger – Believe it or not, I did not have a portable charger when I first traveled & let me tell you – a HUGE mistake.
What to Use to Find Transportation
Skyscanner – This flight search engine is one of the best to find affordable flights. You can search an entire month for the cheapest flights.
Kayak – Another flight search engine that’s good for finding cheap flights. You can also find lodging & car rentals.
Rail Europe – Traveling around Europe? Rail Europe is hands-down the best company to use when traveling by train in Europe.
Uber – Rideshare app that is perfect for getting around a city.
Lyft – Another excellent rideshare option for traveling around a city.
Best Navigating Apps
My family can tell you I am the worst with directions. I still get lost in my hometown. I’m not kidding…
Being lost is not fun, so here are some of my favorite apps for navigating new cities.
Google Maps – My go-to app for getting around in the States. (Unpopular opinion – I prefer it over Apple Maps.)
Citymapper – One of my favorite apps for traveling in Europe. However, Citymapper has several other destinations outside of Europe.
Best Tools to Find Lodging
Booking.com – This site has millions of accommodation listings, from hotels to apartments & houses.
Hostelworld – If you’re looking for a hostel, then Hostelworld is the best place to look!
Vrbo – The best place to look for rental vacations, with properties in over 190 countries.
Where to Book Your Tours
Tripadvisor – One of the best sites (mostly in the US) to find things to do.
Viator – As a Tripadvisor company, Viator is an excellent option to find things to do. This site is usually used when outside the States.