Travel and Tinsel contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read my disclaimer for more information.
I’ve put together this list of go to travel resources to help you plan your next trip. It includes hotels, experiences, and packing essentials, making it an easy checklist to reference before you go.
👉 These are the exact resources I use when planning my own travels.
My Go To Sites for Booking Hotels
When I am booking hotels, I find these sites especially useful, particularly in Europe. I use them to compare options, read reviews, and find well located hotels that fit my travel style.
- Hotels.com – one of the first places I check when booking hotels. I like how easy it is to filter by location, price, and amenities. It is especially helpful when I want something walkable to the main sights. The reviews are helpful and give a good sense of what to expect before booking. I also use the map feature to quickly see where each hotel is located, which makes it easier to choose the best area to stay. It is a simple way to compare options and find comfortable hotels that fit my travel style.
- Booking.com – I also use Booking.com when planning trips to Europe. It consistently has a wide range of options, from boutique hotels to larger stays. It also often shows more availability in smaller cities. I rely on the detailed reviews and ratings to narrow things down and find places that are well located and highly rated. It has become one of my go to tools for finding great hotels across Europe.
- Expedia.com – I also use Expedia when planning trips. It is especially helpful for comparing prices across hotels, airfare, rental cars, and package deals. It is quick to use and lets me see everything in one place. I also use it to check flight prices instead of going directly to airline websites. This helps avoid airfare price fluctuations. It is a simple way to get a good overview and find options that fit my travel plans.
- VRBO – is a great option when I want a little more space or am traveling for a longer stay. It lists apartments, condos, and full homes. It is a great option if you want a kitchen or extra space. I like using it to find comfortable stays in good locations that feel a bit more like home.
I usually check at least two sites before booking to compare options and make sure I am getting the best fit.
Booking Experiences
When I am planning a trip, I like to book a few experiences in advance to make the most of my time. These sites make it easy to find tours, skip the line tickets, and unique activities. They are especially helpful in Europe. I use them to read reviews, compare options, and book experiences that fit into my itinerary.
- Viator – I use Viator to find a wide range of tours and experiences. This includes walking tours, day trips, and unique activities. The reviews are helpful. I also like how easy it is to see what is included and how long each experience takes. It is a reliable way to book tours in advance and plan out your days.
- GetYourGuide – is another site I check when booking experiences, especially in Europe. It often has a great selection of tours, including skip the line tickets and smaller group options.
💡Pro Tip: I always compare GetYourGuide and Viator. Sometimes the same experiences are listed on both. Other times, you will find options on one site that are not on the other.
Travel Essentials
When I am packing for a trip, I focus on the travel essentials I use every time. These items help keep things organized and make travel days easier. They also add a little extra comfort along the way. I keep this list simple and practical, with only the items I actually use on my own trips.
👉 For a full seasonal packing list, including what to wear for winter travel and Christmas markets, check out my detailed guide here: https://travelandtinsel.com/christmas-market-packing-list/
- 40L Travel Backpack (Carry On) – This backpack opens like a suitcase and fits easily under the seat. It is a great carry on option. It includes a laptop pocket and packing cubes. I am always amazed at how much it can hold, with plenty of room left for souvenirs on the way home.
- Venture Pal Day Pack Backpack – I love this ultralight backpack because it folds into its own pocket and takes up almost no space. It is water resistant and durable, with compartments that make it easy to stay organized. Even though it is lightweight, it still has plenty of room for layers, snacks, and small items. It is a practical and affordable option for day trips and flights.
👉 I have even used the Venture Pal Backpack as a second carry on for the trip home when I buy too much and end up checking my roller bag.
- Universal Travel Adapter – This compact travel adapter works in more than 150 countries, including Europe, the UK, Japan, China, and Australia. It’s the only one you’ll need no matter where you go.
- Inflatable Neck Pillow – I spent a long time searching for a neck pillow I actually liked, and I finally found it. Since it’s inflatable, it barely takes up any space, and the higher design gives my head a comfortable place to rest while the front stays open around my neck. The built-in privacy hood and travel pouch are thoughtful extras I really appreciate.
- Anker Portable Charger – This small charger was great to have on hand. It holds its charge for a long time and powers devices quickly. I love that it doesn’t drain when it’s not in use. The digital display showing the remaining battery life is an added bonus.
- Apple AirTag – They are one of my favorite travel essentials and a simple but powerful tool for stress free travel. They let you track your luggage or backpack right from your phone. If your bag gets delayed or misplaced, you can see exactly where it is in the Find My app. They are small, lightweight, and incredibly reliable.
👉Android Users will like these highly rated air trackers. - Leak Proof Silicone Travel Bottles Set – Spill proof travel bottles are a game changer for keeping your toiletries organized and mess free. This set includes twenty one pieces in a variety of sizes. The silicone containers are leak proof, easy to fill, and TSA approved.
These are the items I use on every trip and they have made travel so much easier.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, travel planning does not have to be complicated. Having a few go to resources makes it easier to book hotels, find great experiences, and stay organized along the way.
These are the exact tools and items I use on my own trips, and they have helped me plan everything from quick getaways to longer itineraries across Europe and the United States.
If you are just getting started, start simple. Pick one or two sites to compare options, book a few key experiences in advance, and bring the essentials to make your trip more comfortable. From there, you can build a travel style that works best for you.
The goal is to spend less time stressing over logistics and more time actually enjoying your trip.