Favorite Travel Companies

These are the travel companies and resources that I personally use, love and recommend. Please note that many of the links below are affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Looking for some specific travel gear? Click here to see lots of great options you can use on your next vacation.

Travel Research & Planning

Follow us on Pinterest to dream about your next trip and also find practical travel tips and ideas: We have organized Pinterest boards for tons of domestic and international destinations. You won’t regret starting your travel research here.

Bookseller

Purchase guidebooks for your favorite destinations, travel essays about far off places, coffee table books of travel photography and much more. Browse online or in-person or take advantage of curbside pickup if it’s available in your area.

Recommended Guidebooks

My go-to travel guidebooks for vacations in U.S. cities and countries throughout the world. Print and e-books available.

Accommodation

Stay at an Airbnb

Use Airbnb to find a unique place to stay on your vacation, a comfortable apartment for work remotely, or just somewhere with more space than a small hotel room. Check out our blog post with essential tips for booking an Airbnb or hire us to do the search for you.

Hotels and more…

This search engine provides an easy way to find lower-priced lodging (and transportation) in cities all over the world. Sign up for an account so you can accumulate points that offer dollars off future bookings.

Marriott Bonvoy.png — Stellar hotel stays

Encompassing multiple hotel brands, they have properties all over the world and a great rewards program.

Glamping!

“Safari inspired glamping accommodations” in more than six locations across the U.S. My first glamping experience was at Under Canvas outside of Zion National Park and it was amazing. You will not be disappointed by your glamorous camping experience with this company.

Vacation Rental by Owner

One of the most popular vacation rental platforms with homes available in the United States and all over the world.

Compare these worldwide hotel brands (and book direct) to find a wonderful place to stay on your vacation: Hilton | IHG Hotels & Resorts | Radisson

Related Blog Posts:

8 Essential Tips for Booking on Airbnb: Advice from a Superhost

Airbnb vs. Hotel: Choosing the Right Accommodation

Airbnb Tips: How to Be a Great Guest

Transportation

Transportation Search Engine

“Discover how to get anywhere by plane, train, bus, ferry & car.” It’s a great starting point when you’re trying to plan a more complicated trip or you want to assess your options via different modes of transportation.

Car Sharing App

It’s like Airbnb but for cars. If you’re not finding what you’re looking for with the typical rental car companies, give Turo a try. Multiple car types are available in cities across the US, Canada, Germany, and the UK.

Rental Cars and more…

This search engine provides an easy way to find lower-priced transportation (and lodging) in cities all over the world. Sign up for an account so you can accumulate points that offer dollars off future bookings.

National Car Rental.png — Rent a Car

If you’re having trouble finding a rental car at a good price, give National a try - sometimes they have better deals!

Sixt rental car.png — Rental Car

Offering unique cars at reasonable rates, they may offer discounts if you book direct. If you haven’t searched their site yet, give them a try!

Uber App

Easier than a taxi, download this app to get around tons of cities in the U.S. and all over the world.

Rental Cars in Europe

An international company when looking for a car to rent in Europe and all over the world (over 140 countries).

Lyft App

Download this app onto your smart phone for an easy taxi alternative. Connect your Delta Sky Miles or Hilton Honors accounts to earn extra points and miles.

Going on a road trip? Be sure to download this awesome audio guide that will narrate your route (and it works offline too)!

Airfare

Step 1: Use a search engine like Orbitz, Expedia, Skyscanner or Google Flights to identify options for your flight path.

Step 2: Book direct on the airline’s website - this will allow you to easily utilize or accumulate frequent flyer points and miles and also have an easier time with seat selection. If you are flying through Amsterdam, search KLM Royal Dutch Airlines or if you’re headed to Africa or through the Middle East, check out Qatar Airways. Before you fly, download the app for your airlines so you can conveniently check in and receive notifications.about your flight status.

Need to leave your car at the airport? Check to see what companies like Park N’ Fly or Park N’ Go are available at your airport.

Related Blog Post: How to Have Fun on Your Long Airport Layover

Discounts

Cash Back for Travel Purchases

It seems too good to be true, but I have earned a lot of cash back using this website! Using THIS LINK you will receive $10 into your Rakuten account after you join and shop. Many travel brands (and regular shopping brands) offer cash back through this site.

Travel Discounts

Not just for roadside assistance…if you’re a member of AAA you have access to special deals at some tourist attractions and hotels. Book direct on hotel sites and look for the AAA discount to save.

Activity Deals

Search on the website or app to find activities for your upcoming vacation (or even in your own city). Deals are available for everything from museums and cooking classes to water sports, golf or photo gifts.