Travel Toolkit
Travel Resources I Use & Trust
These are the platforms and resources I share with my neighbors. These tools can make DIY traveling, one-stop trip planning and package deals more manageable.
Transparent Travel Note: There are six affiliate links on this page. If you use them, I’ll earn a small commission at absolutely zero extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and marketplaces that I trust to help you build your own personal, budget-friendly itineraries. Thanks for supporting my blog and keeping the DIY spirit alive! My affiliate partners are designated with a 
heart.
Window seat or aisle? Solo escape or family affair? No matter your travel style—or your budget—there's a seat here just for you. Browse below and find the journey that fits you best.
Expedia💛
- It is usually better to look up flights on Expedia to compare prices instead of having 15 tabs open, but buy the ticket directly on the airline's website for fewer headaches. Expedia is better for cars, hotels, and bundles. For brand hotels like Marriott, use Expedia for research and then book direct, especially if pricing is similar.
Google Flights
- A resource I use regularly, including for my AmFund travel work. I like having plenty of hotel options in one place when comparing locations and rates.
Lounging
When your favorite airline lounge is not available, Priority Pass often has nice alternatives.
Priority Pass
- Priority Pass is an independent global airport lounge program that gives members access to more than 1,700 lounges and airport experiences in 725 cities across 145 countries, regardless of airline or ticket class. Membership includes amenities such as Wi-Fi, food, and seating, and is available directly or through many premium credit cards.
Hotels & Places to Stay
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We usually choose hotels within a major chain. Staying loyal to one brand helps us earn points more quickly and gives access to perks such as complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, free nights, late checkout, and lounge access.
Booking.com 💛
- I’ve used Booking.com over the years, and it remains a popular option among fellow travelers for comparing hotels and other places to stay around the world. Of course it's also a handy platform for booking airfare, etc.
Vrbo
- While I have never used Vrbo, I have many friends, family and neighbors who have been satisfied with route for years. Vrbo has mansions, houses, treehouses, tiny houses, cabins, condos & villas for singles to large groups.
For Our Military Heroes
Armed Forces Vacation Club
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You can enjoy great rates on resorts and the same access to vacations worldwide. Membership is free!
veteran, and retired U.S. military members, including the National Guard, Reserves, and all service branches; Gold Star families; DoD civilian employees, including appropriated, non-appropriated, and retired employees; AUSA members; and immediate family members, including spouses, parents, and children.
Where to Find Military Discounts
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Military members and families can save on concerts, sporting events, theme parks, and more through trusted programs like GovX, Vet Tix, Ticket Club, and on-base ITT offices. Service is a legacy and so are the benefits. Eligibility often continues for qualifying family members' retirement or passing.
Vet Tix
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Provides free or low-cost event tickets donated to current
service members and veterans.
GovX
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Offers verified discounts on concerts, sports, and theme park tickets for current military, veterans, and military spouses.
Ticket Club
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Offers verified discounts on concerts, sports, and theme park tickets for current military, veterans, and military spouses.
Cruising
My family has been booking cruises via USAA's travel team for years. However, if you do not have a military/veteran connection, CruiseDirect.Com is a reliable resource.
CruiseDirect.Com
- I’ve used CruiseDriect.com over the years, and it remains a popular option among fellow travelers for comparing cruise fares and grabbing deals. Still, if possible use USAA's travel team!
USAA's Travel Team
- I love that USAA will match the cruise line's rate if it drops after it's booked. And, sometimes they offer a Friends & Family rate.
Memory Making Activities
- Memories are made regardless of the activity, but depending on your destination, the trip is extra special with unique activities, tours, and experiences from must-see highlights to local favorites.
Viator 💛
- I’ve used Vrbo for vacation rentals over the years, especially when a little more space and the comforts of home make sense for the trip. It’s also a popular choice among fellow travelers.
TripAdvisor
- I’ve used Booking.com over the years, and it remains a popular option among fellow travelers for comparing hotels and other places to stay around the world.
Locals
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We love booking with reputable local operators. Sometimes the best destination guide is one of your neighbors who actually lives there. Not recommended for certain locations.
Travel Insurance!
SquareMouth 💛
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Please don't skip your travel insurance. We always use USAA's travel team's insurance, but if you are not eligible for that, there are reputable options out there. No matter what, please don't leave home without it!
DIY travelers can easily compare specific coverage needs. Squaremouth’s search engine lets users filter for details such as severe weather, pre-existing conditions, and adventure sports with clear side-by-side results.
- A massive driver of their customer satisfaction is their "Zero Complaint Guarantee." If my neighbors (you) purchase a policy through Squaremouth and face a claim dispute down the road, Squaremouth's internal team will step in to investigate and advocate on your behalf with the insurance carrier. This safety net gives me immense peace of mind to endorse them on my site. Plus, I have fellow neighbors that have vouched for Squaremouth and are satisfied with their coverage and customer service.
Rental Cars & Getting Around
The right transportation can make all the difference — especially when exploring beyond major cities.
Getrentacar.com
- Compare multiple rental car companies in one place to find competitive rates and flexible options.
Navigating Once There
- Keep the Uber app, Waze (really helpful with unlabeled streets), and international driving rules and tips in your travel toolbox.
Connection Wear & Lifestyle
Travel is about people as much as places. These pieces are designed to spark connection, conversation and kindness wherever you go. And, a portion of each purchase will be donated to GlobalGiving, a non-profit based in Washington, D.C. that supports philanthropy worldwide.
More Ways to Relax & Explore
Not every journey requires a plane ticket. These ideas are for slowing down, dreaming, and exploring in new ways.
Staycation Ideas Worth Staying Home For
You don't have to go far to get away! Once a month, an inexpensive staycation challenge will be suggested. We're kicking off this month with...
- Check Into Your Own Home Spa
Turn off the notifications, light some candles, put on a relaxing playlist and declare yourself officially unavailable. Break out the fluffy robe, face masks, foot soak, favorite lotions and cucumber water—or something a little more celebratory. 🥂 Go solo for a peaceful reset, or invite a few friends and turn it into a spa party with snacks, robes and plenty of catching up. For extra indulgence, book a mobile massage therapist to come to you.
Neighbor rule: No laundry, email, errands or “while I’m sitting here, I might as well…” allowed. You are at the spa. Act accordingly.
Virtual Vacations
Explore the world from anywhere through food, culture, music, film, and storytelling. Travel with your mind when your body can't go far.
- Virtual museum tours from world-class institutions
- International film festivals from your couch
- Cultural playlists and global music experiences
- Cook authentic recipes from around the world
Free Travel Tools
Access my complete collection of free, practical planning worksheets, checklists and guides to help you get your next adventures on the calendar with confidence.
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to book or purchase on this page — at no additional cost to you. I
only recommend resources I or my trusted neighbors genuinely use. Your support will help keep this site going and allow me to continue sharing thoughtful, practical travel inspiration. Thank you for being here.