Travel Toolkit
Travel Resources I Use & Trust
These are the platforms, tools and resources I share with my neighbors. These resources make DIY traveling 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.
Expediađź’›
- 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.
Travel Insurance!!!
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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.
Transportation Tools
Living outside Atlanta, I usually book directly with Delta, and I sometimes use Google Flights to compare fares. Sometimes bundling can save you a surprising amount. These tools below are excellent for package deals and one-stop trip planning.
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.
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Booking.com đź’›
- 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 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.
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.
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.
Viator đź’›
- 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.
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.
SquareMouth
- 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.
More Detailed Breakdown of Expedia
Sometimes you can save a surprising amount by bundling flights, hotels and rental cars.Â
- Good for:
- Vacations
- Quick getaways
- Mainstream destinations
- Comparison shopping
- Especially useful when:
- You're flexible
- You don't care about elite hotel perks
- You want convenience in one checkout
- Hotel Browsing Excellence
- Expedia is excellent for:
- Reading reviews
- Filtering amenities
- Its map interface is still one of the better ones.
- Comparing neighborhoods
- Seeing cancellation policies quickly
- Perfect for Travel Planning Beginners
- For people who don't travel constantly, don't want 12 browser tabs open, and don't want to learn airline/hotel loyalty systems — it's very user-friendly.
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
DIY Travel Made Simple
How to Plan and Book Your Own Vacation Like a Pro
Planning your own vacation doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive.
The truth is, you don’t need to be a travel expert to create an unforgettable trip. If you can browse the internet, compare prices, and follow a checklist, you already have everything you need.
That’s exactly why I created Next on the List.
Think of this website as your friendly travel neighbor. I’ll provide the tools, resources, checklists, and insider tips so you can confidently plan your own adventure from start to finish.
Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend getaway, a family vacation, your first cruise, or the trip of a lifetime, you’ve got this.
Let’s get started.
Free DIY Travel Guide
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Step 1: Decide Where You Want to Go
Start with the fun part. Ask yourself:
- Beach, mountains, city, or countryside?
- Domestic or international?
- Relaxation or adventure?
- Road trip, cruise, train, or flight?
- Solo, couple, family, or group?
Don’t overthink it. Sometimes your next destination starts with one photo,
one story, or one conversation.
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Step 2: Pick the Best Time to Travel
If your schedule allows, travel during the shoulder season (just before or after peak tourist season). You’ll often enjoy:
- Lower airfare
- Better hotel prices
- Shorter lines
- Smaller crowds
- More authentic local experiences
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Step 3: Set a Budget
Decide how much you’re comfortable spending before booking anything. Include:
- Flights
- Hotels
- Transportation
- Food
- Activities
- Souvenirs
- Emergency money
A simple budget helps prevent vacation stress later.
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Step 4: Search for Flights
Use several flight search engines instead of relying on just one. Compare:
- Prices
- Layovers
- Flight times
- Baggage fees
- Cancellation policies
A slightly more expensive nonstop flight may actually be the better value.
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Step 5: Find the Right Place to Stay
Think beyond price. Ask yourself:
- Is it close to the attractions?
- Is public transportation nearby?
- Does it include breakfast?
- Are parking fees extra?
- Are the reviews consistently good?
Sometimes spending a little more on location saves money on transportation.
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Step 6: Plan Your Daily Adventures
You don’t have to schedule every minute. Choose one or two “must-do” activities each day and leave room for unexpected discoveries.
Some of my favorite travel memories were never on the itinerary.
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Step 7: Protect Your Investment
Travel insurance isn’t exciting… until you need it. Unexpected illnesses, weather delays, cancellations, and lost luggage happen.
Travel insurance can save you thousands of dollars—and a lot of stress.
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Step 8: Use the Right Credit Card
If you travel regularly, consider using a travel rewards credit card. The right card can help you earn:
- Airline miles
- Hotel points
- Free checked bags
- Airport lounge access
- Travel credits
- Trip protection
The goal isn’t to spend more. It’s to earn rewards on purchases you’re already making. Always pay your balance responsibly to avoid interest charges that can outweigh the value of the rewards.
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Step 9: Book with Confidence
Once everything looks right… book it. Waiting too long can sometimes mean paying more. Before clicking “Purchase,” double-check:
- Passenger names
- Passport information
- Travel dates
- Hotel location
- Cancellation policy
Five extra minutes can prevent expensive mistakes.
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Step 10: Stay Organized
Create one folder (digital or printed) for:
- Flight confirmations
- Hotel reservations
- Rental cars
- Cruise documents
- Travel insurance
- Passport copy
- Emergency contacts
- Tickets
Having everything in one place makes travel much less stressful.
Use My Free Travel Toolkit Resources
I’ve gathered many of the travel search tools I personally use into one
convenient place. Use them to compare prices and book:
- Flights
- Hotels
- Vacation rentals
- Cruises
- Rental cars
- Activities
- Airport transportation
- Travel insurance
They’re free to use, and comparing several options often helps you find the
best value.
My Favorite Money-Saving Tips
- Travel during the shoulder season whenever possible.
- Book flights on flexible dates.
- Pack light to avoid baggage fees.
- Use points and miles whenever you can.
- Compare several booking sites before purchasing.
- Read recent reviews—not just the overall rating.
- Leave room in your itinerary for spontaneous adventures.
- Always keep copies of important travel documents.
- Purchase travel insurance for major trips.
- Check passport expiration dates well before international travel.
Remember...
The best trip isn’t always the most expensive one.
It’s the one filled with meaningful experiences, memorable people, and stories you’ll be telling for years.
Travel has taught me that the world is full of kind people, incredible places, and unforgettable moments.
I hope this site gives you the confidence to plan your next adventure—and maybe even inspires you to venture past your comfort zone.Â
After all…
there’s a whole world of neighbors out there you simply haven’t met yet.
Download these free checklists and guides to help you plan smarter, pack better, and travel with confidence.
Free Travel Planning Downloads
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.