Dreaming of your next adventure but not sure where to start? Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, planning a trip can feel overwhelming—but we’ve got you covered!
We started this blog back in 2014 and since then we’ve visited over 50 countries—many of them more than once!
We started out as full-time backpackers traveling on a shoestring budget. Now, as a family of four, we continue to explore the world with our toddler and baby in tow.
It’s safe to say we’ve learned a thing or two about how to travel smarter and picked up a few tips along the way.
From choosing the perfect destination to budgeting wisely, booking smart, and packing like a pro, we share expert tips and insider advice to make travel easier, more affordable, and stress-free.
No matter where you’re headed, our guides will help you travel better, smarter, and more confidently—so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.
Let us help you travel better…
Not sure where to begin?
No worries!
We’ve got the answers to all of your questions… and if we don’t we’re here to point you in the right direction (feel free to shoot us a message!).
Let’s start with the basics…
Planning a trip overseas, whether long or short, can seem overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be! In this article, we'll show you how to take the stress out of travel planning by laying out a simple step-by-step guide...
One of the most common questions people ask is how we afford to travel so often. It is a complex question with many answers, but we’re delving in and sharing all the things that have allowed us to travel...
Packing can be overwhelming, but the right travel essentials make all the difference. After years of exploring the world, we’ve narrowed down our must-have items—gear that keeps us organized, comfortable, and ready for any adventure! Over the years, we’ve...
Planning & Budgeting
Travel planning for us is one of the most exciting feelings ever! But let’s get real… it’s also downright overwhelming.
These resources cover the steps of travel planning and budgeting for your trip.
Road trips are arguably one of the best ways to really see a place while having the freedom and flexibility that comes with having your own vehicle. This article will walk you through exactly how to plan a road trip,...
Planning a trip overseas, whether long or short, can seem overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be! In this article, we'll show you how to take the stress out of travel planning by laying out a simple step-by-step guide that'll...
One of the most common questions people ask is how we afford to travel so often. It is a complex question with many answers, but we’re delving in and sharing all the things that have allowed us to travel and...
If the thought of planning a trip leaves you dazed and confused, you've come to the right place. We're covering all the most popular travel questions - from planning, to budgeting, to packing. Don't miss this article that's packed full...
If saving money for travel – or buying a house, starting your own company, or I dunno, getting wine delivered to your doorstep each day – is a priority to you, these simple tips, mindsets and lifestyle adjustments will help...
This list of resources and gear will save you money and time on your next trip. They have saved us hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars during our travels. Start saving money today!
Going into our travels with no plan at all has been one of the exciting parts about this journey, but there have been some unique challenges that we weren't exactly prepared for.
Got any upcoming trips planned with your gal pals or college buddies? Read on for some questions you'll want to be sure to ask before you pack your bags!
Travel Booking
Booking your travel should be exciting, not stressful! Whether you’re searching for the best deals on flights or choosing the perfect place to stay, we’ve got the tips and resources to help you book smart.
Learn how to find cheap flights, uncover hidden accommodation gems, and discover how travel credit cards and travel insurance can save you money and protect your trip.
We’ll show you how to make the most of your budget while ensuring peace of mind every step of the way.
Airbnbs are a great way to stay like a local in the place you’re visiting and do so on a budget! Alternatively, Airbnb has some unique stays — like yurts, tiny homes, and treehouses — that are great for a...
Don’t you dare get on a plane without this! Travel insurance is just as important as your passport and contrary to popular belief, it is NOT expensive! We're sharing a story about why you NEED trip insurance, which travel insurance...
Finding a super cheap flight is one of the most exciting feelings. Not only have you saved money, but you’re about to plan an adventure! We’re sharing all our tips and secrets for how to find cheap flights all over...
Our Favorite Travel Booking Resources
- Flights: To search for the best price on flights we use Skyscanner. (Note: To avoid issues, we always book direct with the airlines. We just use Skyscanner as a tool to compare prices.)
- Accommodation: Our go-to is usually to stay in Airbnbs. However, Booking.com has quickly become our favorite booking platform to search for hotels and apartments around the world (without the crazy fees!).
- If we are traveling through Asia, we’ll take a look at Agoda.
- When we were traveling on a budget, we used Hostelworld.
- Travel insurance: We currently have an annual plan with Allianz Travel Insurance.
- For short trips that involve any sort of “extreme” activities like high altitude hiking (hello Machu Picchu!) or scuba diving, we purchase a short term plan with World Nomads.
- For long-term travel and digital nomads, we highly recommend SafetyWing.
- Rental cars: For rental cars, our go-to platform is Booking.com (formerly RentalCars.com) and Discover Cars.
- Campervan rentals: Our go-to site for searching for campervan rentals around the world is Motorhome Republic.
- Outdoorsy is another great resources that’s like “Airbnb for campervan rentals” in the US.
- Bus transportation: We like to use Bookaway to search bus routes around the world and purchase tickets.
- If we are anywhere in Asia or the Middle East, we use 12goAsia for buses and ferry tickets.
- Ferries: For booking ferry transfers such as the Cook Strait Ferry between the North and South Island of New Zealand, we use Direct Ferries.
- Airport transfers: When we need a comfortable shuttle to or from the airport, we turn to Welcome Pickups.
- International data: We use Airalo to download a local eSIM before each trip.
- Unique experiences & tours: To search and find unique experiences and tours with local guides, we always check Get Your Guide and Airbnb Experiences.
Packing for travel
Packing doesn’t have to be a hassle!
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, we’ve got packing tips to help you travel light, organized, and stress-free.
From must-have items to efficient packing hacks, we’ll show you how to pack like a pro—so you can focus more on the journey and less on your suitcase.
Packing can be overwhelming, but the right travel essentials make all the difference. After years of exploring the world, we’ve narrowed down our must-have items—gear that keeps us organized, comfortable, and ready for any adventure! Over the years, we’ve traveled...
Packing your carry-on like a pro can make all the difference between a smooth flight and a stressful one. After years of traveling and countless flights, we’ve perfected the ultimate carry-on packing list to keep you comfortable, entertained, and prepared...
We’ve created the ultimate guide to what to wear on safari. Plus, we’re sharing a complete packing list that has all the essentials, as well as what NOT to pack for your African safari.
We’ve created the ultimate Norway packing list that has all the essentials, as well as what NOT to pack. Plus, we’re sharing what to wear in Norway and how to curate a perfect capsule wardrobe.
We’ve created the ultimate Winter in Europe packing list that has all the essentials, as well as what NOT to pack. Plus, we’re sharing what to wear to Christmas Markets and how to curate a perfect capsule wardrobe.
We’ve created the perfect Japan packing list that has the essentials (many of which you might not think about) and what you should NOT pack for a trip to Japan. We’re also sharing what to wear in Japan for all...
If you’re wondering what to wear in Japan, this is the guide you need! We’re going over what to wear in each season and how to create a perfect capsule wardrobe. We’re also divulging some items you should not wear...
This is the ultimate Havasupai packing list that has been curated for this specific backpacking trip. We’ve included all the essentials to bring, what to leave at home, the lowdown on food at Havasupai, as well as insider packing tips.
Make your tiny home life easier with this campervan gear packing list. We'll show you our favorite travel products for the road from camping gear to kitchen supplies to creative storage. Are you ready for the van life?! This packing...
Packing for any trip can be overwhelming. But packing for a long term trip can be downright rip-your-hair-out stressful! After years of traveling for extended periods of time, we have learned a lot about what to pack and what to...
Are you packing for a 3 month backpacking trip? If so, we've got you covered. Here is our travel gear we brought to South America on our first long term backpacking trip. Learn from your packing mistakes and only bring...
Traveling
Once you’re on the road, the adventure really begins!
Our travel tips cover everything you need to know for smooth travels, whether it’s staying safe in a new destination, capturing the perfect photo, surviving long-haul flights, or adjusting to jet lag.
From expert hacks to must-know advice, we’ve got you covered to help you make the most of every moment of your trip.
If you’re planning some long distance travel, these expert jet lag tips will help you adjust to a new time zone faster, so you can feel refreshed and make the most of your trip. From in-flight hacks to post-arrival strategies,...
Traveling is one of the best gifts you can give yourself, but we know it can be a little nerve wracking sometimes. How do I stay safe in a foreign country? How do I avoid getting pickpocketed? Whether you’re traveling...
If you dream of traveling but don’t know how you can afford it, you’ve come to the right place! We’re sharing all our cheap travel tips that have allowed us to explore the world, even while paying off student loans!...
Thinking of taking your dog along on your next adventure? The truth is flying with a dog isn’t as complicated as it sounds. This ultimate guide will break down the fundamentals of flying with a dog, both in-cabin and in...
If you want to improve your photography skills so you can take better travel photos, you've come to the right place! Whether you’re a total newbie to taking pictures, or you’re an experienced photographer trying to polish your skills, this...
Travel Inspiration
Whether you’re dreaming of tropical beaches, rugged mountains, or vibrant cities, our travel inspiration will help you discover new destinations and unique experiences.
From hidden gems to bucket-list wonders, let us spark your wanderlust!
From quaint mountain towns to bustling metropolises and intimate urban sprawls, Europe is home to some of the most impressive and influential cities in the world. We’ve rounded up the best cities to visit in Europe that will have you...
With so many ideal babymoon destinations, it can be hard to choose just one. This guide will help you plan your babymoon from start to finish, including where to go, things to do, our top recommendations, and helpful tips to...
I've taken 4 (and counting!) trips to Europe during Christmas time to explore all of the quintessential European Christmas markets. In this article I’ve ranked my very favorite ones to help you choose the best Christmas markets in Europe!
When planning the honeymoon of your dreams, it can be overwhelming choosing the perfect location. Every couple’s idea of romance is different. We’ve rounded up a list of super romantic getaways for couples in destinations around the world that are...
We are always looking for ways to stretch our travel budget to the fullest. We put together this list of the cheapest countries to visit in every region of the world, including money-saving tips from our personal experience.
Based on our experience, and some very specific criteria, we’ve put together this list of the best cities for digital nomads around the world. We added our own research, advice, and practical information to make this comprehensive guide a starting...
Other travel categories…
What if the hard part was already done for you?
All you have to do is pack your bags!
