Travel has been a big part of my life for decades though I’ve never traveled for more than six months at a time. By fall 2025, I’ll have visited 70 countries. And there’s probably another 30 I’d like to visit, so I’m not planning to stop traveling anytime soon. I’ve finally gathered a list of favourite travel resources you might find helpful for your own travels.
As any traveler knows, it takes a lot of time to research and book trips. My list of travel resources draws from those me, or friends personally rely on. They change from time to time with advances in technology, and companies going in and out of business.
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Keeping in touch
In Canada Airalo seems to be the eSim card of choice. I haven’t personally used it yet but my friends that have traveled to Europe swear by it. Think about how much data you’ll need and how long you plan to travel as both of those factors affects the pricing.
Other trending apps for travel eSim cards are UBIGI, Nomad eSIM and AloSIM.
Numero eSIM is an app that lets users buy a second phone number to use while traveling. It’s a good option if you want to keep your main number private.
Travel gear
Packing cubes – Nothing beats packing cubes for staying organized. I love the different sizes but don’t find the mini-mini ones useful – and nor the extra large, but maybe that’s just me.
Noise cancelling headphones – If you’re sensitive to noise – whether on an airplane or in a hotel with thin walls, the noise canceling headphones might just save your sanity.
Chaco sandals – Once every six to seven years I purchase a new pair of Chaco sandals. I like the fact they have arch support; good traction & they are never stinky.
Kipling Women’s Travel purse – I’ve been using this slim profile purse for years. I love the two front zip pockets that are big enough to hold my passport and reading glasses. The 12-24 inch cross-body strap will fit many body types.
30 L Backpack – I love a 30L backpack as it can carry all my 10 hiking essentials and if I’m traveling, I can put my computer in it. The Mountain Warehouse option also comes with a built-in rain cover, which is a huge plus in my books.
Expandable carry-on – My go to for about 20 years as been my TUMI bag – but they have changed the inside, and the newest ones aren’t as roomy. Check out the hard side Samsonite Freeform with double spinner wheels that expands.
Kindle paperwhite – The lightest and most compact Kindle with glare free reading. A must for travel. Long battery life too.
Universal Travel Adaptor – Four conversion plugs for more than 210 countries. Can be used for 110-240 voltage. Comes with 4 normal USB ports, and one fast charging Type C port.
Travel insurance
Safety Wing – Affordable travel insurance starting for as low as $US38 per month, but it all depends on your age and how long you will be out of country.
Travel resources related to flights
When it comes to flights, I usually book directly with the airline as I feel like I have more clout. But I do check other websites for deals and to learn what airlines fly between various cities. Watch out for all the hidden baggage and cancellation charges going forward.
Seat Guru – This is one of the top travel resources that I recommend you check out before you purchase seats. It shows you which ones to avoid.
Kayak – It is one of the largest and most used search engines for airfares. Check them out before going to individual airlines.
SkyScanner – A flight tool that is especially useful for flights from or within Europe.
Car rentals
Expedia – I use Expedia frequently for car rentals. I fine their website easy to navigate and they are very upfront about whether its prepaid or pay when you pick up.
Enterprise – My go to car rental company especially when John and I are traveling together – as there is no extra cost for adding a spouse as another driver.
Discover Cars – Lots of good deals and free cancellation but most car rentals on their site are prepaid. Great for last minute rentals.
Travel resources related to booking accommodation and campsites
Campsite reservations – If you’ve missed out on a campsite reservation in many of Canada’s national and provincial parks, sign up with Schnerp. Their program scans for campsite cancellations and lets you know immediately. Another option is Campnab. It monitors cancellations in both Canadian and US parks.
Trusted Housesitters – If you’re looking for a housesitting gig or you want to put your home up for housesitting, this is one of the most popular platforms.
Nomador – Another site I’ve used as they have a rating system for each house sitter – which helps with trust.
Housecarers – I have used Housecarers multiple times for both house and pet sitting house with great success.
Hostelworld – I am past staying in hostels, but I stayed at my fair share of them when I was younger. They are great for saving money and meeting kindred spirits.
Booking.com – This is my go to booking website for accommodation – and a top travel resource. You get good discounts on some hotel properties if you consistently book with them. There cancellation policies are plainly laid out too.
Expedia – I occasionally book hotels on Expedia I don’t find on other sites. I use them more frequently for car rentals and flights.
Airbnb – I use them occasionally though I know they are a much beloved booking site, especially for unique properties.
Agoda – Check them out if you’re heading to Asia as their pricing is usually very good.
Getting around
International Driver’s License – Have a driver’s license? Then you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in another country – like the ones listed here – without having to take tests or submit other applications. In Canada it’s quick to do it through CAA and AMA Travel.
Rome2Rio – I use this website when I’m trying to figure out all my options for getting from point A to B. It’s especially useful when you’re visiting countries for the first time.
Travel resources – Money Tools
Wise – This is the best way to send or receive money overseas in 2025. Fees are low and exchange rates are good.
Cash – I always carry small denomination cash when I travel. The best rates in Canada are not usually with your bank but with Calforex.
Miscellaneous travel resources
The Points Guy – Figure out how to maximize all your points and miles earned through car rentals, hotels, flights, credit cards and more.
Free Walking Tours – Book budget and free tours with local guides.
Nike Training Club – Called the best free fitness app with classes labeled by intensity.
Centr – The best overall fitness app in 2025 comes at a price of $29.99 per month. It’s got a huge library of strength training, HIIT, and cardio sessions.
Useful links
- 100 of the Most Useful and Practical Travel Tips
- Tips for Staying Safe in Bear Country
- Tips on How to Get Campsites Without Reservations in Alberta
- Driving Across Canada: 40 Places You Shouldn’t Miss
- 35 Top Day Hikes in Canada – Personally Tested
Do you have any travel tips or resources that would be a good addition to this post?