I call the UK home because that’s where I’m from. I call Australia home because that’s where my husband is from and we’ve spent a lot of time there over the years. I call Phuket, Thailand home because that’s where we’ve raised her daughter and have spent the bulk of our time over the last 15 years.

No real fixed abode, no definitive place we call home, and itching to get the backpacks on and head off into the great unknown.

However, if you say the word digital nomad, it conjures up visions of 25-year-old bikini clad beauties running through waterfalls in thongs, or muscle bound gen Z’s diving off cliffs with a go pro strapped to their head.

As a 53-year-old mum of an almost grown-up daughter nobody wants to see me running through a waterfall in a thong I can guarantee you!

So what is a slomad?

Well picture this.

Rather than frantically hopping from one country to another, ticking off places as fast as you can on your bucket list, instead, you explore the places you visit, soaking in each destination, living like a local, and embracing a slower pace.

As a more mature nomad, that certainly suits my pace of life, and is more considerate to the environment, tourism and a host of other benefits we’ll explore in this article.

Let’s dive in;

What is a Slomad?

A ‘Slomad’ or ‘Slow Nomad’ is someone who chooses to travel the world at a more leisurely pace. A slomad immerses themself in each destination, not just as a visitor but as a part of the community.

The chances are you might stay 3 months, 6 months, even a year or more in one place before moving on to the next.

This lifestyle is for those who seek more than just a change of scenery; it’s for those who desire a deeper understanding and connection with the places they visit.

Digital Slomad vs Digital Nomad

Digital nomads move fast. Typically they might stay a night, a week or a month in one place before moving on. A digital slomad however, will likely stay longer and become more ensconced in the community before thinking about where to go next.

I used to work a lot at Starbucks in my local shopping mall in Phuket, and met a lovely young Russian couple who had been living in Thailand for a few months. When I saw them, they were off to Korea for 3 months, heading back to Thailand for another 6 months and then Europe.

The lady said to me ‘we like to travel a little slower, so we can create a bit of routine with our work (she’s a corporate lawyer taking a break, he’s an online startup co-founder) and truly discover a country/city’.

Slow travel is most definitely an upward trend that’s become more common since Covid. It’s easier now than ever to work remotely, whether running your own concern or working for someone else and it comes with a host of benefits.

The Benefits of Slomad Lifestyle

Expense Management and Cost Effectiveness

One of the most compelling advantages of the slomad lifestyle is how it can positively impact your wallet.

Staying longer in one place often leads to cost savings, as you can negotiate better rates for accommodation, and you’re not constantly spending on travel fares.

Plus, you get to discover local markets and eateries, which are often more budget-friendly than tourist hotspots.

Family-Friendliness and Inclusivity

Slomad living isn’t just for solo adventurers. It’s incredibly family-friendly. Longer stays mean you can establish a routine, crucial for families with kids.

It allows for stability in schooling – whether it’s online or local – and helps everyone settle and feel at home.

We pretty much raised our daughter in Thailand, but she’s also lived, and schooled, in Cyprus, Australia and the UK.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

By traveling slowly, you’re making a more environmentally sustainable choice. Less frequent flights mean a smaller carbon footprint.

Additionally, by investing time and money into local communities rather than tourist traps, you’re supporting sustainable economic growth and contributing to the preservation of local cultures and environments.

Building Connections and Mitigating Loneliness

Staying longer in one place lets you build genuine relationships with locals or other travellers.

I’ve met some incredible people from all over the world on our travels, some of whom have become lifelong friends.

Travelling can be lonely, and slow travel can mitigate that, by giving you the time to build connections as you go.

Deeper Cultural Immersion

The essence of being a slomad lies in the depth of cultural immersion. You’ll get to learn some of the language, understand local customs, and participate in everyday life.

This, in my opinion, is the secret behind tolerance, understanding and a better world. By experiencing and understanding what other cultures believe, how they live, what their world views are based on, broadens your mind irrevocably.

Your travel experiences will forever be enriched and your life more fulfilling and enlightened.

My Slomad Journey & Plans

15+ years ago, my husband and I sold everything we owned (which wasn’t much) and with our 4 year old under our arms, headed off to Cyprus for four months to house sit for a friend.

Over the last 15 years we’ve visited, explored and lived in some 40+ countries, some in typical nomad style, just for a few days or weeks, many like Australia, Cyprus and Thailand, for months, even years at a time.

My daughter is now 19, graduated last May and is now heading to London to pursue her own dreams. My husband & I will continue our nomadic lifestyle, and our intention is to do a mix of nomadism and slomadism. We’ll visit, explore and if we like the look of a place, settle for a few months before moving on.

How do we manage it? Over the years we’ve built and run multiple 6 & 7 fig online businesses, which have funded our travels, my daughters schooling and everything inbetween.

But there are a multitude of ways to generate an income on the go.

Generating an Income While You Travel

Here are a selection of options:

• Freelancing: Offer your skills online, whether it’s writing, graphic design, consulting, or programming. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can be great starting points.
• Teaching: Teaching languages online, especially English, is a popular choice for many digital nomads. Companies like VIPKid or iTutorGroup connect teachers with students globally.
• Starting an Online Business: (My favourite option) This could range from e-commerce to digital marketing. The key is to find a niche that you’re passionate about and can manage remotely.
• Working Across the Globe: Some slomads take on local jobs or temporary positions in their host countries, although this often requires specific visas or work permits.

Over the last 13 years, I’ve made money selling online courses, promoting and selling other people’s courses (affiliate marketing), coaching, email marketing, ecommerce, Amazon FBA, blogging and more.

For more ideas on creating portable income streams see this post – 190+ Online Lifestyle Business Ideas

Financial Planning and Saving

Creating a budget for your travels is crucial. How much do you actually need to fund the lifestyle of your dreams?

Chances are, it’s much less than you think, particularly when you start to travel to places like South East Asia, South America etc.

However, when getting started, consider budget-friendly options like house sitting, which can significantly reduce accommodation costs.

The beauty of the slomad and nomad lifestyle is that it allows you to travel in off-seasons, which usually results in lower costs and fewer crowds.

Do your due diligence, utilise online resources to create a realistic budget, chat with people living the lifestyle and use this budget sheet to get you started;

Packing for the Slomad Life

Packing as a slomad means balancing the essentials for daily living with the need to stay mobile.

Essentials include adaptable clothing for different climates, (although you can pick up cheap clothes in most destinations) and any small, light, personal items that make anywhere feel like home.

After many years on the road, I’m a light packer and it won’t take long before you realise you don’t need/wear half the things you take.

When it comes to your belongings back home, consider storage options, selling items you no longer need, or donating to charity shops. This not only declutters your life but also simplifies your return.

Securing Accommodations and Visas

Many countries now offer Digital Nomad visas, acknowledging the growing trend of remote work.

Some great examples include;

• Portugal: 1 – 4 years
• Croatia: 6 months – 1 year
• Romania: 1+ year
• Mexico: 1 – 3 years
• Dubai: 1+ year
• Bali: 6 month+

There are many more countries with a variety of longer stay/digital nomad visas, plus it’s a growing trend so expect even more over the coming years.

Remember though, each country has its own set of rules and duration of stay, so it’s essential to do thorough research and understand the legal requirements before making your move.

Navigating the Practicalities of Slomad Travel

Managing finances is a critical part of slomad life. Here are some practical tips:

• Track Your Spending: Use apps like Mint or You Need A Budget (YNAB) to keep an eye on your expenses.
• Set a Daily Budget: Determine a daily allowance based on your overall budget and stick to it.
• Use Local Currency: Avoid exchange rate losses by using local currency and understanding the cost of living in your destination.
• Cook Your Meals: Save money by cooking at home rather than eating out frequently.
• Choose Accommodation Wisely: Opt for long-term rentals or consider house sitting to significantly cut down on accommodation costs.
• Use Public Transport: Embrace local transportation for a cheaper and more authentic experience.
• Take Advantage of Free Activities: Explore local markets, parks, and free cultural events.
• Travel Insurance: Invest in good travel insurance to avoid unexpected medical expenses.
• Seasonal Travel: Travelling in the off-season can lead to lower prices and fewer tourists.
• Local/E SIM Cards: Use local or e-SIM cards for cheaper internet and communication.

Planning and Organizing Slow Travel

Utilizing the right tools can make planning your slomad journey much smoother.

Consider these apps:

• Skyscanner: For comparing flight prices and finding the best deals.
• Rome2Rio: To figure out how to get from point A to B using various modes of transport.
• Booking.com: Offers a range of accommodations suited for different budgets.
• GetYourGuide: Great for booking tours and experiences.
• TrustedHousesitters: Connects you with house sitting opportunities worldwide.

The Slomad Lifestyle in Depth

Building a Sustainable Daily Routine

As a slomad, creating a routine that balances work, exploration, and personal time is key.

Here are some tips:

• Set Work Hours: Establish a consistent work schedule that aligns with your most productive times.
• Stay Active: Incorporate regular exercise, whether it’s a morning jog, yoga, or joining local sports activities.
• Mindful Downtime: Allocate time for relaxation and self-care. This could be reading, meditating, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee.
• Continuous Learning: Dedicate time to learn something new related to your current location, be it a language, cooking, or a craft.
• Look for ‘Off the Beaten Path’ Experiences: Don’t just hit the tourist spots. With slow travel you have the time to seek out the path less travelled and truly experience the world around you.

Mindful and Responsible Travel Practices

Travelling responsibly is a cornerstone of the slomad philosophy.

• Respect the Environment: Practise eco-friendly habits, like reducing waste and conserving resources.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs and etiquette.
• Sustainable Tourism: Opt for activities and tours that are ethical and support conservation efforts.
• Be aware: Unless we’re going to travel everywhere by rowboat and eat roadkill off a banana leaf, we have to balance practicality with being as eco-friendly as we can. Be aware of your surroundings and do what you can to contribute to a better planet.

The Art of Slow Travel – Summary

As someone who’s walked and is walking this path, I can say it’s one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Not only do I get to truly explore and immerse myself in places and cultures, I’ve made lifelong friendships, I’ve grown as a person, and feel as though I’ve become a part of a global community.

The slomad lifestyle is more than a travel choice; it’s a transformative experience.

It offers the freedom to explore the world, the opportunity to connect deeply with diverse cultures, and a sustainable way to live and work.

If you’re yearning for more than just a change of scenery, if you crave deeper connections and meaningful experiences, then the slomad lifestyle might just be what you’re looking for.

If you’re ready, take your first step. The world is waiting for you.

The Art of Slow Travel; FAQ’s

What is the meaning of slow travel?

Slow travel is about embracing the journey at a leisurely pace, allowing for deeper connections with the places you visit. It’s not just about ticking destinations off a list; it’s about immersing yourself in local cultures, understanding the rhythms of daily life, and forming meaningful relationships with people and places.

Why is slow travel better?

Slow travel offers a more authentic and enriching experience. It allows you to explore destinations beyond the surface level, reduces travel stress, and often leads to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way of travelling. It’s about quality over quantity, creating lasting memories rather than fleeting moments.

How do you slow travel?

Slow travel involves staying in one place for an extended period, exploring it in depth rather than rushing through. It means taking the time to engage with local communities, enjoy the local cuisine, learn the language, and participate in local customs and traditions. It’s a mindset of curiosity and immersion.

What are the principles of slow travel?

The principles of slow travel include taking your time, being present and mindful, prioritising connections with local cultures and environments, minimising your environmental impact, and valuing experiences over checklists. It’s about travelling in a way that is respectful, intentional, and enriching.

Is slow travel sustainable?

Yes, slow travel is generally more sustainable than traditional forms of tourism. By spending more time in one place and engaging with local economies, slow travellers often have a smaller carbon footprint. This approach supports local communities and promotes responsible tourism practices that benefit both the traveller and the host destination.

Can I earn while I slow travel?

Yes, it’s possible to earn while embracing the slow travel lifestyle. Here are some ways to make money while slow travelling:

• Freelance Work: Offer your professional skills remotely as a freelancer.
• Remote Employment: Work for a company that allows full-time remote work.
• Teaching Online: Teach a subject or language online.
• Content Creation: Monetize a blog, vlog, or social media channel about your travels.
• Consulting Services: Provide consulting based on your expertise.
• Virtual Assistance: Offer administrative or creative assistance to businesses remotely.
• Selling Digital Products: Create and sell digital products like e-books, courses, or photography.

By leveraging your skills and the power of the internet, you can sustain your travels while contributing value to your clients or audience.

The post The Art of Slow Travel: How to Become a Slomad appeared first on The Working Traveller.

Lots of mores!

As I write this post, I am getting excited! Only 3 months to go until we set off traversing the globe again, so I’ve been researching and drawing on my own travel experiences.

Whether you’re a lifestyle entrepreneur, a digital nomad, a professional traveler, or just like planning vacations, here are 50 practical tips for traveling on a budget:

1. Set a Daily Budget

Determine a reasonable amount to spend each day and try to stick to it.

This will help you prioritize your spending. Include all your expenses, such as accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. This will make you more conscious of your expenses and less likely to splurge on unnecessary items.

2. Travel Off-Peak

Travel during shoulder seasons—the period between peak and off-peak seasons.

You will find that flights and accommodations are much cheaper, and destinations are less crowded. This not only saves you money but also enhances your travel experience.

3. Use Flight Comparison Websites

Utilize websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights to compare prices across various airlines.

These websites aggregate prices and show you the cheapest options. Sometimes they even have exclusive deals that you might not find on the airline’s website.

4. Use Travel Reward Cards

Credit cards that offer travel rewards can be incredibly valuable.

By spending on everyday items, you can accumulate points that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses. Make sure to pay off the balance every month to avoid interest charges.

5. Pack Light

Save on checked luggage fees by packing only the essentials in a carry-on.

Besides saving money, packing light also saves time, as you don’t have to wait for your luggage at the carousel, and it makes moving around much easier.

6. Travel Overnight

Opt for night buses or trains when moving from one city to another.

Not only is it often cheaper than daytime travel, but you also save on one night’s accommodation. Make sure to bring earplugs and an eye mask for a more comfortable sleep.

7. Use Public Transport

Public transportation is usually much cheaper than taxis or rideshares.

Plus, it’s a great way to experience how locals live. Before you travel, check the public transportation options of your destination and familiarize yourself with routes and tickets.

8. Book in Advance

Many transportation companies offer lower rates if you book weeks or even months in advance.

This also applies to some attractions and accommodations. Just make sure to read the cancellation policy in case your plans change.

9. Cook Your Own Meals

By staying in hostels or Airbnbs with kitchens, you can save a lot by cooking your own meals.

Visit local markets for fresh ingredients, and try making some local dishes. This is not only cost-effective but also a fun cultural experience.

10. Travel with Friends

When you travel with friends or family members, you can share expenses such as accommodation, transportation, and even meals. This can significantly reduce the financial burden on each person.

11. Free Walking Tours

Many cities offer free walking tours. These are not only an inexpensive way to see the city but also a great opportunity to learn about the local history and culture. Don’t forget to tip your guide if you enjoyed the tour.

12. Use Travel Apps

There are many travel apps designed to help travelers save money.

These range from maps and transportation apps to those that find the best local deals. Some popular ones include Maps.me, XE Currency, and TripAdvisor.

13. Use Hostels

Hostels are usually much cheaper than hotels. They’re also great places to meet other travelers. Look for hostels with good reviews and the amenities you need, like free Wi-Fi or a kitchen.

14. Haggle

In many countries, particularly in markets, prices are inflated for tourists. Don’t be afraid to bargain.

It’s often expected. Be polite, and if you feel like the price is too high, it’s okay to walk away.

15. Use Airbnb

Airbnb can be a cheaper and more authentic alternative to hotels. Staying in a local’s home or apartment can also provide a different perspective on the place you’re visiting.

16. Book Flights on Tuesdays

Many airlines release their sales early in the week, making Tuesday often the best day to find deals. It’s also said that booking around six weeks in advance can get you the best rates.

17. Use Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing allows you to stay with locals for free. It’s not just about free accommodation but also about cultural exchange and making new friends. Be respectful and considerate when staying with a host.

18. Travel Insurance

Though it seems like an extra expense, travel insurance like SafetyWing can save you money in the long run in case something goes wrong, such as a medical emergency or loss of luggage. Make sure to read the policy details.

19. Pack Snacks

Food at airports and tourist spots can be overpriced. Bring your own snacks, like nuts or granola bars for those moments when hunger strikes.

This small habit can save you quite a bit in the long run.

20. City Tourist Cards

Many cities offer tourist cards that provide free or discounted access to major attractions and public transport. If you plan to visit many attractions, this can save you a substantial amount.

21. Use a VPN

Sometimes prices for flights and accommodations can be cheaper when booking from a different country. A VPN changes your virtual location, allowing you to check prices from different countries.

22. Eat Street Food

Street food is often cheap and delicious. It’s also a fantastic way to experience local cuisine. Just make sure it looks clean and safe. Opt for busy stalls as high turnover usually means fresher ingredients.

23. Use a Water Bottle

Bring a refillable water bottle. It’s more environmentally friendly and saves you money. In countries where tap water is not safe to drink, look for water refill stations or use a bottle with a filter.

24. Walk

In compact cities, walking is often the most economical and enjoyable way to get around. You can take your time, take photos, and discover hidden gems that you might miss when using public transport.

25. Avoid Tourist Traps

Places near major tourist attractions are usually overpriced and not always the best quality. Walk a few blocks away from the tourist areas to find better and cheaper options.

26. Go to Free Museums

Many cities have museums that are either always free or have specific free-entry days. Plan your visits around these times. These cultural experiences can be just as enriching as the costly ones.

27. Travel Slowly

Constantly moving from one place to another can be expensive. By staying longer in one place, you can take advantage of weekly accommodation rates and have more time to find cheap local spots.

28. Use Currency Exchange Wisely

Currency exchange centers, especially at the airport, usually have bad rates. Withdraw money from ATMs for better rates, but be aware of fees. Also, always choose to be charged in the local currency.

29. Use Student Discounts

If you’re a student, always ask if there’s a student discount. Many places offer reduced prices for students. Just make sure to carry your student ID with you.

30. Work Exchange

Websites like Workaway and WWOOF connect travelers with locals looking for help with various tasks in exchange for food and accommodation. This is not only a way to save money but also a unique cultural experience.

31. Use Local SIM Cards

Roaming fees can be exorbitant. When you arrive, buy a local SIM card. This will allow you to use the internet and make calls at a much lower rate.

32. Choose Cheaper Destinations

Some countries are significantly cheaper to travel in than others. Countries in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or Central America often have lower living costs compared to Western Europe or North America.

33. Pack a First-Aid Kit

Having basic medicines and first-aid supplies can save you from having to find and purchase them at a local pharmacy, which can be particularly expensive in some countries.

34. Share Meals

In many countries, especially in the USA, portion sizes can be very large. Consider sharing a meal with a travel companion. This saves money and prevents food waste.

35. Research

Knowledge is power. The more you know about the place you’re visiting, the better decisions you can make about where to save money. Look for local blogs and forums for insider tips.

36. Avoid Single Supplements

Some hotels charge a single supplement, essentially penalizing solo travelers. Look for accommodations that don’t charge this fee or consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb.

37. House Sitting

Websites like TrustedHousesitters connect travelers with homeowners looking for someone to take care of their home and pets while they are away, often in exchange for free accommodation.

38. Bike Rentals

Many cities offer bike rental programs. Biking is often cheaper than public transport and gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

39. Find Free Entertainment

Look for free entertainment options such as concerts, street festivals, or public events. These can often provide some of the most memorable experiences of your trip.

40. Ask Locals for Tips

Locals often know the best places to eat, visit, and shop. Don’t be shy about asking for advice. They can often direct you to hidden gems that are not on the tourist radar.

41. Use Library for Freebies

Some local libraries offer free or discounted passes to local museums, zoos, and other attractions. Check the library’s website or ask the librarian for information.

42. Use Deal Websites

Websites like Groupon can offer substantial savings on activities, meals, and even accommodations in the country you’re visiting.

43. Alternative Airports

Sometimes flying into or out of a secondary airport can be significantly cheaper than using the main airport. Just make sure to factor in the cost and time of getting to and from the airport.

44. Carry Small Change

Having small denominations of the local currency can be handy for small purchases, and in some places, it is necessary for public toilets or local buses.

45. Flexibility

Being flexible with your travel dates and destinations can save you a lot of money. Sometimes changing your departure date by just one day can make a big difference in flight prices.

46. Avoid Expensive Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages can be pricey. Limit your consumption or buy it at a local store and enjoy it at your accommodation.

47. Use a Money Belt

Protect your money and essential documents by using a money belt or hidden pouch. This is especially important in areas known for pickpocketing.

48. Take Advantage of Duty-Free

If you need to purchase gifts or specific items, sometimes buying them in the duty-free area of the airport can save you money.

49. Volunteering

Some organizations offer food and accommodations in exchange for volunteer work. This can be an incredibly rewarding way to immerse yourself in the local culture while giving back.

50. Set Fare Alerts

Many flight search engines allow you to set alerts for specific routes. They will notify you when prices drop, allowing you to book at the best possible price.

Remember that traveling on a budget is also about making choices.

Sometimes it’s worth spending a little more on an experience that will really enhance your trip, and other times it’s better to save. The key is finding the right balance.

Here are three top considerations for how to travel on a budget safely and healthily;

3 Top Considerations for Traveling on a Budget Safely & Healthily

1. Budget Travel Styles

Understanding and choosing a travel style that suits your budget is essential. The way you travel can significantly impact your expenses. Here are a few budget travel styles:

• Backpacking: Involves traveling with minimal luggage, often staying in hostels or budget accommodations, and using cost-effective transportation. It is popular among young and solo travelers.
• Slow Travel: Staying longer in one place to immerse yourself in the local culture. This style can save money as you can avail of long-term accommodation discounts and reduce transportation costs.
• Working Holidays: Involves volunteering or taking short-term jobs while traveling. This can offset some of your travel costs and is also a great way to immerse yourself in a new culture.
• Travel Hacking: Utilizing credit card points, frequent flyer programs, and other rewards to reduce the cost of flights and accommodations.

2. Staying Healthy on a Budget

Maintaining your health during your travels is crucial, as getting sick can be both costly and disruptive. Here are some tips:

• Travel Insurance: Invest in a good travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses. This can save you from hefty hospital bills in case of an emergency.
• Vaccinations and Medications: Ensure you are up-to-date with necessary vaccinations and carry essential medications. This prevents avoidable illnesses and the associated costs.
• Eat Wisely: Opt for hygienic eateries and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Drink bottled or purified water in countries where tap water isn’t safe.
• Stay Active and Rested: Engage in physical activities but also ensure you get enough rest. A balanced routine keeps you healthy and energized.

3. Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them

Falling victim to a scam can be a major setback for budget travelers. Here’s some travel safety tips to stay vigilant:

• Research Common Scams: Before you travel, research common scams in the destination you are visiting. Being aware is the first step to avoid being tricked.
• Keep Valuables Safe: Carry only what you need for the day, and use a money belt or hotel safe for important documents and valuables.
• Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers: Be cautious if someone approaches you with an unsolicited offer, especially if it seems too good to be true.
• Stay Calm and Walk Away: If you feel like you’re being scammed, remain calm. Often, scammers rely on pressuring you into making hasty decisions. If something feels off, it’s okay to walk away.

By considering your travel style, staying healthy, and being vigilant against scams, you can make the most of your travels while sticking to your budget.

These considerations are fundamental to having a smooth and enriching travel experience without unexpected expenditures.

How to Travel on a Budget – Summary

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean skimping on experiences; rather, it’s about making smart choices that maximize the value of each dollar spent.

The key takeaways for a rewarding budget travel experience include:

• choosing a travel style that aligns with your preferences and budget
• prioritizing your health to avoid unexpected medical costs
• staying vigilant to protect yourself from scams

Being informed and planning ahead can significantly enhance the quality of your travels while keeping costs in check.

One crucial aspect of planning is ensuring you have reliable travel insurance.

For budget travelers, a highly recommended option is SafetyWing Insurance.

SafetyWing offers affordable travel medical insurance, which is invaluable for peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen medical emergencies. It’s flexible, designed with the traveler in mind, and easy to purchase even after your journey has begun.

As you embark on your next adventure, don’t forget that smart budgeting is an enabler, not a constraint. Take that leap, explore new cultures, make lifelong memories, and do it all without breaking the bank.

How to Travel on a Budget – FAQs

What is the meaning of budget travel?

Budget travel refers to the practice of traveling while minimizing expenses and seeking ways to make the most of a limited budget. This means being cost-conscious regarding transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.

Budget travelers often look for the best value options rather than the cheapest, aiming to have enriching travel experiences without overspending. This can involve staying in hostels or budget accommodations, using public transportation, eating at local eateries, and looking for free or low-cost attractions.

How do you travel for a year on a low budget?

Traveling for a year on a low budget requires careful planning and flexibility. Here are a few steps to consider:

• Choose Affordable Destinations: Opt for countries with lower living costs, such as those in Southeast Asia or Central America.
• Plan and Save: Prioritize saving money before your trip and set a realistic daily budget for your travels.
• Work or Volunteer: Consider working holidays, remote work, or volunteering in exchange for accommodation.
• Travel Slowly: Slow travel not only lets you immerse yourself in the culture but also saves money on transportation.
• Be Frugal: Cook your own meals, use public transport, and avoid expensive tourist traps.
• Travel Hacking: Learn the art of travel hacking to utilize credit card points and frequent flyer miles for flights and accommodations.
• Have Travel Insurance: Make sure you have travel insurance to avoid unexpected medical costs.

How can I travel the world with little money?

Traveling the world with little money is challenging but possible through creativity and adaptability. Here are some tips:

• Work Abroad: Take up short-term jobs or freelancing work as you travel.
• Couchsurfing and Hostels: Use platforms like Couchsurfing for free accommodation or stay in hostels.
• Hitchhiking and Rideshares: In safe and common areas, hitchhiking or using rideshare apps can save on transportation costs.
• Earn While Traveling: If you have skills like writing, web development, or photography, you can earn money online while traveling.
• Utilize Reward Programs: Use airline and credit card reward programs to your advantage.
• Travel Light: Pack minimally to avoid additional baggage fees.

What is the cheapest way to travel around the world?

The cheapest way to travel around the world involves a combination of strategies:

• Round-The-World (RTW) Tickets: Consider purchasing RTW tickets from airline alliances, which can be cost-effective for extensive travel.
• Low-Cost Carriers: Use low-cost airlines for regional flights and always be on the lookout for promotions and deals.
• Overland Travel: Where feasible, use buses and trains instead of flying.
• Hostels and Alternative Accommodations: Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or services like Couchsurfing.
• Eat Like a Local: Shop at local markets and eat street food.
• Free Attractions: Take advantage of free museums, parks, and walking tours.
• Travel Slowly: Longer stays often mean reduced accommodation and transportation costs.

Remember that while traveling cheaply, it’s essential not to compromise your safety and well-being. Always be informed and make sensible decisions.

The post How to Travel on a Budget: 50 Practical Tips! appeared first on The Working Traveller.

Look no further!

As a digital nomad and beach lover myself, I have combed the web looking for the very best gifts for beach lovers and beach loving nomads, and have compiled a list of over 50 awesome beach related products for you to consider for their next trip, birthday, christmas, or simply just because you love them!

From fun and unique floats, chairs and coolers to accessories like beach hats and sunnies, your buddy will be sure to hit the beaches across the globe with style and convenience and have you to thank!

Enjoy hitting the surf and sand yourself? My beach-lovers gift guide is full of great ideas for you and the fellow beach-lovers in your life.

Shop wisely and have fun!

Practical Beach Gifts

In this first section of the best gifts for beach lovers, we’ll have a look at some more practical gifts which make a day at the beach both safe and comfortable.

1. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an essential item and therefore an always welcome gift for beach-lovers, especially if they want to protect their skin from sunburn, wrinkles, and cancer.

When choosing the right sunscreen, it’s important to select a formula with an SPF of at least 30 and UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection.

Ideally you also want something that’s waterproof and long lasting so you get the best protection possible when spending time in the sun.

Here’s the sunscreen I recommend;

2. SBF Lip Balm

I don’t know about you, but my lips are super sensitive to the sun and if I don’t wear factor 50 lip balm they regularly get burned. (Which is really sore and uncomfortable, especially if you then try to eat spicy food!).

I have tried every lip balm under the sun (excuse the pun) and this is by far the best! I buy it by the boatload!

3. Portable Beach Chairs

Clearly not something a digital nomad wants to lug around the world, but a great gift for a beach lover, portable beach chairs are lightweight, durable and easy to fold up, making them the ideal choice for beachgoers.

Here are some of the best options for beach lovers:

The Picnic Time Portable Beach Chair is a great option for ultimate beach comfort. It features a sturdy steel frame and an adjustable backrest, so it can conform to your preferences. The included insulated pocket and straps make it easy to carry, and this chair is perfect for long days in the sand and sun.

The Kelty Low Loveseat is a great option for couples looking for a romantic day in the sun. This low-profile chair can fit two people comfortably, and features zippered pockets for keeping drinks and valuables safe. It’s lightweight, durable, and perfect for a day at the beach.

The Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Chair is the perfect option for laid-back beach days. It features a mesh back and padded armrests, so you can stay cool while enjoying the view. This chair is lightweight and collapsible, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.

For beach lovers who want extra style and comfort, the Tommy Bahama Beach Chair is the perfect choice. It features a deep recline, a headrest, and side pockets for keeping your things close at hand. It’s lightweight, durable, and perfect for long days in the sun.

4. Floating Cooler

If your beach lover enjoys a refreshing beverage while splashing about in the surf, what could make their day even more enjoyable than a floating cooler?

The Bestway floating cooler is definitely one of the best items to bring along to a beach day since it holds up to 24 cans and keeps them cold as you swim and play.

Thanks to the insulation and thicker walls, no matter how hot the day gets, your drinks and treats will stay cool and refreshing. Plus, you won’t need to worry about sand or dirt entering the cooler.

5. Beach Umbrella

If traveling the globe, most places you’ll be able to rent a beach umbrella, however for a more localized gift, a beach umbrella is an excellent gift for any beach-goer.

A beach umbrella shades you from the sun and provides some protection if it’s raining. Beach umbrellas come in a variety of sizes and colors to fit any taste.

When shopping for a beach umbrella, look for one that’s easy to set up. Many umbrellas come with a telescopic pole so you don’t have to bend over to open it up.

Consider one that incorporates a sand anchor to keep it stable in windy conditions. If you’re buying for a person who regularly camps, look into beach umbrellas that double as a shelter, most pop open and come with a carry bag for easy storage and transport.

6. Beach Bag

Beach bags are crucial for storing your beach essentials and keeping all your items together. We love our beach bag and picking the right one is essential. It needs to be big enough to store a couple of towels plus, sunscreen and other nik-naks, but not so big, it becomes unwieldy and too heavy to carry.

If you really want to go the extra mile, consider buying a beach bag and filling it with special items such as towels, sunscreen, beach clips etc.

Here are my top recommendations for beach bags for beach lovers.

The Scout BJ Beach Bag offers a convenience that no other beach bag does. It has plenty of pockets on the outside and inside so you don’t have dig through your bag. The water resistant fabric helps to keep moisture away from your items and it’s big enough to fit a towel and ample beach supplies.

The 2 in 1 Foldable tote offers both style and functionality. It has a large main compartment that fits all of your beach essentials. Its the perfect travel bag as it folds up small and takes up hardly any room in your suitcase.

The Oscaurt Mesh Beach Bag is perhaps the most affordable option on this list. It offers plenty of interior space to fit a picnic blanket, beach towels and sunscreen — all at a great price. It’s also easy to carry with two shoulder straps and 7 pockets.

The Preppy Striped Beach Tote is a great bag for beach lovers who want to make a statement. The black and white striped pattern is eye-catching and it can fit plenty of beach supplies.

The Herschel Duffle Bag comes in a variety of fun colors, making it a great choice for those looking to stand out from the crowd. It has a large main compartment and two side pockets for easy storage and on-the-go convenience.

Finally, the Shylero Beach Bag is a fan favorite. It comes in vibrant patterns and has enough space for all your beach items. The two top handles make it easy to carry, and it even has an extra compartment for keys and other small items.

7. Waterproof Cell Phone Case

No 7 on my list of best gifts for beach lovers in a waterproof phone case.

This is one of the best beach gifts for beach lovers to protect their smart devices from the sand and from potentially taking a dive in the pool. With a variety of styles and designs available, there are plenty of options for your favorite beach goers.

From ultra-durable shockproof cases to water-resistant pouches, there’s something for everyone.

Cases that float, like the Joto Floatable Waterproof Cellphone Case, may appeal to the ocean adventurers, while a trendy and colorful option, like the Karvense Colorful Universal Waterproof Phone Case, is perfect for beachgoers with a more fashion-forward style.

8. Snorkeling Set

For beach lovers looking to explore the sea’s natural beauty, a snorkeling set is an essential tool. Snorkeling sets typically contain goggles, a snorkel tube and fins, and are perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities.

Whether you’re eyeing a basic snorkeling gear for children or a professional adult set, it’s important to make sure the material is durable and of good quality.

Look for masks that offer good visibility and are comfortable and lightweight, snorkels with no holes and adjustable straps, and fins that fit the contour of your feet.

If you’re gifting a snorkeling set to a beginner, it’s a nice touch to include a tutorial guide or video about snorkeling techniques and safety tips for the recipient.

9. Sand-Proof Beach Towel

A beach towel is essential for those who love to spend time at the beach. Whether it’s used to dry off after a dip in the water, or to provide a comfortable spot to relax and eat lunch, no day at the beach is complete without one.

But regular towels and beach blankets can get sandy and wet, making them uncomfortable to lay on. Enter the sand resistant beach towel.

The perfect gift for beach lovers, this towel will keep them comfortable and clean so they can enjoy their day at the beach without worrying about carrying damp and sandy blankets home.

This sand-proof beach blanket by Wekapo is made from durable ripstrong nylon that not only repels water but also prevents sand from sticking. It’s machine washable for easy cleaning. This blanket comes in fun colors and prints, and is large enough for two or more people.

When it’s time to leave the beach, simply fold the blanket up and attach the included strap to secure it. Measuring 7 foot” x 7 foot”, this sand-proof blanket will easily fit into any beach bag or tote. Also, it’s lightweight and comes with a convenient storage bag, so you can take it along wherever your beach adventures take you.

10. Sunglasses

No beach lover’s outfit is complete without a pair of stylish sunglasses. Whether it’s sitting in the sand, taking a dip in the surf, or venturing for a long walk along the beach, sunglasses are essential for any beach lover.

For sun-soaked days and extra protection, opt for polarized lenses. Polarized lenses reduce glare, making it easier to enjoy the sights of the beach without having to squint.

Not only that, mirrored sunglasses are an eye-catching alternative to conventional lenses and make a bold statement on the beach.

11. Rash Guard / Vest for Men & Women

When it comes to beach wear, rash guards or vests are a must-have. Perfect for those long days of fun in the sun, a rash vest will protect the beach lover in your life from UV rays.

Whether they’re looking for a long sleeved UPF 50+ swimming tee, a short sleeved protective shirt, a two piece rash guard swimsuit, or a one piece coverup for their toddler, there’s something for every sunburn conscious beach lover.

12. Sun Protection Hat

No 12 on my list of best gifts for beach lovers is a sun protection hat. I’m not a big hat wearer, but my husband swears by his!

Pick a wide brimmed hat, a cap with a wide brim, or what I call a jungle hat with a flap that protects the neck. Each will give ample protection when staying out in the sun for long hours.

Here’s some recommendations;

This hat is made of lightweight, quick-drying fabric. It comes with an adjustable drawcord and toggle on the back to help keep the perfect fit and protect against wind. The wide brim is shaped to provide complete coverage and shade, further protecting the face and neck from dangerous UV rays. There are more than a dozen colors to choose from, including classic colors and fun, vibrant colors.

This stylish sun protection hat is the perfect gift for the beach lover in your family. It’s lightweight and packable, which is great for travel. It’s also perfect for days at the pool, lake, or beach. Gift it on its own or package it with other beach accessories such as a beach chair and tow

13. Adventure-Ready Sandals

When it comes to comfort and style combined, no beach essentials list is complete without at least one great pair of sandals. For the adventure-minded beach lovers in your life, a great pair of sandals can be the best gift to give.

Whether it’s a pair of flip flops for casual beach jaunts or a rugged and supportive hiking sandal for coastal trails, comfortable footwear is key to enjoying time at the beach.

Adventure-ready sandals often feature cushioning and arch support, as well as thick rubber outsoles that offer plenty of traction on wet surfaces. Invest in a good pair of sandals and your beach-loving recipient will thank you later!

14. Swimming Goggles

Swimming goggles are a must-have for beach lovers and can turn a casual wade in the water into a full-on swimming session. Swimming goggles allow beach goers to see underwater, no matter how murky the water may be.

Not to mention, swimming goggles allow for more efficient swimming as they reduce drag in the water due to their hydrodynamic design.

Some popular models include the Aegend Swim Goggles, designed with an ultra-soft silicone seal designed to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. There are also the Zionor Swimming Goggles, which are polarised lenses and enhanced anti fog technology allowing for superior vision.

Luckily, there are swimming goggles to fit every budget and lifestyle, so beach lovers of all kinds can get a pair they will love.

15. Sunscreen Dispenser

This handy travel gadget lets you easily store and dispense sunscreen for yourself or for a group of people.

The Blue Buddies applicator is refillable, so you can keep it stocked with your preferred sunscreen at all times. Simply fill with the unscreen of choice, shake the contents towards the roller ball and apply to body.  No more waste from squeezing too much sunscreen on your hands.

It comes in a variety of colors and is made with durable materials so it won’t easily break. With a sunscreen dispenser, beach lovers can easily grab some sunscreen and be prepared for a day of outdoor fun.

16. Beach Umbrella Anchor

There’s nothing worse than trying to enjoy a day at the beach only to find that the wind has carried your umbrella away. But with the Beach Umbrella Anchor, beach lovers will never have to worry about that!

This anchor offers convenient, secure and safe anchoring for beach umbrellas of all sizes, allowing beachgoers to kick back and enjoy their time at the beach without worrying about where the wind will take their umbrella.

17. Windproof and Waterproof Jacket

If you know a beach-loving friend or family member who likes to enjoy outdoor activities no matter the weather, then a windproof and waterproof jacket can make an excellent gift!

While many waterproof jackets are heavy, uncomfortable and lack pockets, this jacket is both windproof and waterproof while also lightweight and breathable. It also has two functional pockets in which to store personal items, like keys or a phone.

Additionally, this jacket features superior abrasion and tear resistance, making it ideal for any beach activity, from swimming and surfing to hiking and snorkeling. It also comes with an adjustable hood for added protection and durability.

This jacket comes in a stylish color that makes it suitable for wearing at outdoor events as well. With this perfect gift for beach lovers, they’re sure to stay protected from the wind and water while still looking fashionable and enjoying their beach adventures.

18. Unisex Water Shoes (Boat Shoes)

Buying boat shoes was one of the best investments my husband & I made in beach gifts to each other.

Used for taking a walk on a gravelly beach, paddling in the ocean, or getting involved in marine adventures, water shoes give comfort, when you may otherwise be trying to navigate your tender under sole across rocky terrain.

Water shoes are designed to be lightweight and breathable, making them a comfortable and supportive piece of footwear suitable for wearing in and around the water. They feature a sole made of thick rubbery material which ensures excellent traction on slippery surfaces and a secure grip to help swimming. They also come with mesh material which allows for maximum breathability and quick drying.

Most water shoes feature generous padding for added comfort on the feet and a drawstring which helps to keep your feet securely in place. There are several designs available that can also fit over shoes to create an even more snug fit.

19. Wet/Dry Gear Bag

If you want to make sure your beach-lovers’ trips to the ocean stay fun and organized, then a wet/dry gear bag like the ones available from C9 Champion is a great gift idea.

Not only will it carry all of their essentials, it also has a separate pocket for separating wet items from dry items and keeps them waterproof and secure.

The Frelaxy bag is constructed of ripstop polyester and is strong and durable, meaning it can handle everything, from the shores to the boat.

All in all, this wet/dry gear bag is the perfect gift for any beach lover looking for a way to keep all of their ocean essentials organized and secure.

20. Beach Towel Clips

Beach days are all about fun in the sun, and a must-have beach essential is a beach towel. Beach towel clips are the perfect way to keep your towel securely in place, so you can relax and enjoy the day.

Whether you are lying out in the sun or playing in the waves, these beach towel clips will make sure you are taken care of.

Beach towel clips make great gifts for beach lovers, since they will add a touch of fun to any beach day. Choose from clips that have whimsical designs or go with a more classic style.

Add a bit of personality to your gifting with a beach towel clip that expresses the beach-goer’s individual style.

21. Folding Beach Wagon

A folding beach wagon is one of the best gifts for beach lovers.

This convenient wagon makes it easier to carry all of the beach supplies and other items that may be necessary for a trip to the beach. It features a lightweight aluminum frame with a total weight of just twenty-three pounds, making it easy to pull without adding too much bulk to the load.

The compartment is deep and spacious, allowing beach goers to easily store beach chairs, beach towels, umbrellas, toys, snacks and drinks, and so much more. It has solid wheels made specifically for sandy beaches.

The folding beach wagon can make a great gift for those who love to spend their days out in the sun, sand and sea. It will save them trips back and forth to the car. It also makes a great film for picnics, camping trips, or other outdoor activities or environments.

Fun Beach Gifts

In this second section of the best gifts for beach lovers, we’ll explore some fun beach gifts that will give your beach loving friends and their families hours of enjoyment.

22. Inflatable Pool Float

An inflatable pool float isn’t only a great gift for beach lovers; it’s a convenient and fun way to stay afloat in the ocean or pool.

From a classic pool lounge chair to a swan or unicorn, these floats are sure to be a hit with beach lovers of all ages. Inflatable pool floats are durable, lightweight and come in a range of styles and sizes to accommodate everyone’s preference.

23. Beach Games

Beach games are classic summer staples. Whether you’re at a family reunion or just lounging on the sand, there’s something about beach games that just livens up the party. No matter the occasion, one of our recommended best gifts for beach lovers is the perfect way to ignite some good old-fashioned fun in the sun.

From beach ball classics like bocce and horseshoes to water sports and party games, here are 14 beach games to get you started.

Bocce: One of the oldest beach games around, bocce is a great lawn game that can be enjoyed by all levels of beach enthusiasts. Best to have a set or two on-hand at all times since everyone tends to love the easy-to-learn game.

Horseshoes: Perfect for a game or two of horseshoes. While the horseshoe court can be makeshift, a real horseshoe set, is a must.

Kite-Flying: With one of the 50+ Best Gifts for Beach Lovers, you can show off your kite flying skills to your friends. Great for both kids and adults alike!

Beach Bingo: Get your calling cards and beach bingo is a guaranteed hit. With beach-themed cards and printed images, you can have a fun time trying to be the first to BINGO!

Treasure Hunt: It’s a classic beach game with a twist. Give each team clues to uncover hidden treasures and get ready for a race to the finish.

Beach Ball: Beach ball is a classic beach activity perfect for all ages. Get a colorful ball and see who can keep it up longest.

Giant Jenga: Compete against your friends and stack the blocks as high as you can. Test your strength and see who will be the ultimate Jenga champion.

24. Bucket & Spade Set

Let’s not forget the traditional bucket and spade set! If you’re buying for a youngster (or a grown up kid), or a friend’s children, a bucket and spade set is the perfect gift to keep the kiddies occupied building sand castles all day on the beach.

25. Boogie Board

If you’re shopping for a beach lover, boogie boarding can be one of the most enjoyable beach activities around. Boogie boarding, also known as bodyboarding, is a fun way of riding a wave on a board, and requires minimal effort or technique to enjoy.

There are plenty of options when it comes to choosing the perfect boogie board for your beach enthusiast. From quality foam boards in vibrant colors to soft-top models that come with convenient carrying straps, there is a wide selection for all types of riders.

26. Beach Volleyball Set

A beach volleyball set is one of the best gifts for beach lovers! It is a great way to spend a day basking in the sun with friends and family.

This set includes a heavy-duty net, poles, steel frames and guy lines that provide added stability and durability for rough play. The set also comes with a deluxe carrying case that keeps everything organized and makes transporting your beach volleyball game easy.

The ball included is made from rubber, making it suitable for all-weather conditions. The adjustable height of the net allows for a variety of different play styles. Perfect for family days at the beach, beach volleyball can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

27. Windsurfing Gear

Does your beach lover enjoy windsurfing?

If so, why not get your windsurfing enthusiast something special with a fantastic piece of windsurfing gear? From windsurfing boards to sails and accessories, all it takes is a bit of research to find the perfect gift.

For the casual windsurfer, a basic starter set with a board and sail is a great option. Most starter packages come with everything you need, including the board, sail, boom, leash, and fins. If you want to get an even more complete setup for an avid windsurfer, look for setups that come with a mast, extension, base, and more.

For accessories, look for leashes, harnesses, fins, pad sets, earplugs, foot straps, and repair kits. There are loads of options, ranging from beginner-friendly packages to advanced and custom-made accessories.

You could also look for windsurfing themed sun protective gear, like sunglasses, t-shirts and hats, to keep them safe while they’re out on the water.

Inflatable Windsurfer

Wetsuit

Life Vest

28. Waterproof Playing Cards

Make sure your beach-loving special someone can get in plenty of games of cards even at the beach with these waterproof playing cards. These cards are brilliantly designed with a slick and stylish touchscreen design, ensuring that your hands don’t get wet and slippery whenever you use them.

Not only are they waterproof, but they’re also easy to clean and maintain, so they’re perfect for seaside gaming sessions. The cards also come in their own waterproof and durable container, keeping your deck safe and secure no matter the beach conditions.

29. Diving Fins

For the beach lover in your life, consider a pair of Cressi diving fins. These specialized fins provide the perfect way to glide through the water and explore the depths. They are durable and are designed to maximize propulsion with minimal effort.

Whether your beach lover is looking to just stay in the shallows or go deeper, a pair of diving fins are a great option for them. They are lightweight and easy to pack for a beach vacation and can come in sets for both adults and children.

Surfer Beach Gifts

30. Surfer’s Wax Comb

If your beach loving friend is a surfing enthusiast, consider a surfer’s wax comb.

Not only will it help keep their boards slick and surf-ready, but it’s affordable, compact and makes for a great stocking stuffer.

The comb is made to remove old wax and helps to prep the board before applying a fresh coat. It features an ergonomic design so it’s comfortable to hold, and it even comes with a handy hook so it won’t be left sitting out in the sun and heat. Plus, the comb is heat resistant, making it suitable for use all year round.

31. Surfboard Wax

Surfboard wax is an essential accessory for surfing beach lovers as it helps to increase the traction of their surfboard so they can ride with confidence. The wax helps to form a tight bond between the surfer and the board, allowing for finer control and a better riding experience.

Surfboard wax ranges from soft to hard depending on the temperature of the water and the conditions in which you will be surfing. Soft wax is best suited for warmer waters, while a harder wax may be necessary for colder conditions. Some waxes may even help to reduce the drag created by the surfboard, further increasing the ability to maneuver and control the board.

Whether you choose a wax that is organic, biodegradable, or made from recycled materials, you are sure to find something that meets your beach-loving loved one’s needs. Many of these waxes come in an array of colors and scents, giving them an even more unique and personal touch.

32. Surf Wax Remover

Surf wax remover is a great gift for surfers and beach bums alike. This ingenious invention helps beachgoers remove sticky, gooey surf wax from their boards without having to use harsh chemicals or solvents.

Instead, you simply have to rub the remover on the board and the sticky wax residue is removed with ease! Not only does this make the board look and feel better, but it also helps to extend the life of the board’s finish.

This inexpensive item simply requires a set of microfiber towels and some rubbing – perfect for those on a tight budget. Plus, the fast, efficient wax removal process means no more sticky fingers after those rigorous surfing sessions! So, if you’re looking for a thoughtful, practical gift for the surfer beach lover in your life, the surf wax remover is definitely the way to go.

33. Surfboard Rack

Surfboard racks are a great gift for the surfer in your life.

Not only do they keep surfboards safe and organized, but they also make transporting multiple boards a breeze. Our favorite pick is this adjustable surfboard storage rack. It’s made from high-quality steel and durable rubber lining, so it’s sure to last, and can customise to store up to five boards.

Engineered in Virginia, USA, you can be sure that this surfboard rack will provide secure storage for your boards for years to come.

34. Digital Surf Watch

The beach is the perfect place to catch some waves. Why not give the surfer in your life the perfect way to track their progress?

A digital surf watch is the perfect way to time their sessions and track their abilities. It will also help them to improve their technique as they can monitor their speed and data on spray or wipeouts.

Many digital surf watches will include detailed information on global tides, air and water temperatures, and much more. This makes it the ideal tool for surfers of all levels and the perfect gift to help them take their surfing to the next level.

A digital surf watch is practical and stylish, making it perfect for any beach enthusiast. It’s a great way to show you care and will be sure to make them feel special this holiday season.

Luxury Beach Gifts (or Larger Items)

Next on my list of best gifts for beach lovers are luxury items. What I mean by luxury is either expensive or larger items that are by default more expensive.

These gifts are reserved for the more special people in your life or for a special moment/event.

35. Binoculars

A good pair of binoculars is an essential item for any beach-going enthusiast. Binoculars allow you to see much further than with just the naked eye, and can be instrumental in spotting wildlife that resides in the local area.

We recommend the Bushnell Marine 7×50 that are both waterproof and fogproof, meaning they’ll survive even the toughest conditions while still having excellent optical performance. Plus, they come with a range of accessories, including a carrying case and straps, so they’re easily transportable.

Whether you’re looking to get closer to nature during your beach days or just want to be able to see further out into the horizon while relaxing, these binoculars can make an ideal gift for your beach lovers.

36. Beach Cruiser Bike

For the beach lover who loves to get around in style, a beach cruiser bike is an ideal gift. With a classic, laid-back look, these bikes are perfect for cruising around the coast and making the most of what the beach has to offer.

From long distance coastlines with breathtaking views to taking in the local atmosphere in nearby towns, beach cruiser bikes allow you to take in the sights and sounds of the area with ease and comfort.

With options from single-speed or even electric models, choose from lightweight frames for maximum comfort and easy storage or go for something with a bit more power and speed.

37. Underwater Camera

An underwater camera is one of the best gifts for beach lovers. An underwater camera lets users take stunning images and videos from the depths of the ocean. Not only are these cameras perfect for capturing some of the magnificence of marine life, but they can also be used for fun family shots in the pool or the ocean.

One of the top underwater cameras on the market today is the GoPro HERO 11 is a great option. This camera can take beautiful high-definition video, and even features a time lapse video mode. This camera is water-resistant up to 33 feet, and has a large rear display for reviewing footage after use. For underwater videos and pictures, this camera is hard to beat.

Overall, underwater cameras are perfect gifts for beach lovers. Whether they are looking to capture some of the beauty of the ocean and its inhabitants, or just to have a bit of fun, there is a camera for them.

38. Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board

An inflatable stand-up paddle board (SUP) is a great gift for beach lovers. This portable version of a traditional stand-up paddle board is designed for easy transport and storage.

The SUP makes an excellent addition to any beach trip and allows for a fun experience for both the novice and experienced paddle boarders.

39. Fly Fishing Rod

If you know someone who loves the beach and loves to fish, a fly fishing rod could be the perfect gift. A fly fishing rod will allow them to take their favorite hobby even further and explore the true wonders of the coastline. They can use the rod to catch a variety of fish species in shallow, sandy waters, where fish tend to hide and feed.

Fly fishing may seem intimidating and complex to those who are unfamiliar, but once a person gets the hang of it, it can be incredibly rewarding and challenging, as well! A quality fly fishing rod and some basic supplies, such as flies and a reel, will provide your beach-loving loved one with countless hours of fun and adventure.

A fly fishing rod can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the type, brand, and model you choose. Selecting the right one, though, can be tricky.

Look for an option that fits the individual’s skill level and experience. Some rods are more suitable for beginners, while others are more advanced. Additionally, consider the materials—do you want something light and durable, like fiberglass? Or something heavier and more powerful, like graphite?

Finally, be sure to choose the right length and weight based on the type of waters the recipient will be fishing in. A heavier rod will work best in fast-flowing bodies of water, while a lighter one is best for slower, calmer waters. Fishing gifts will be one of the great gifts for Beach Lovers.

40. Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the beach lover in your life, then a waterproof Bluetooth speaker is an ideal choice. Not only does it enable you to take your music with you, but it also makes a great addition to a beach day.

Waterproof Bluetooth speakers offer a number of benefits over other sound system offerings. Not only are they highly portable, but most are also designed to be completely waterproof, making them ideal for when you’re at the beach. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with some offering up to 10 hours of battery life, perfect for when the party lasts much longer than expected.

The best part about waterproof Bluetooth speakers is their sound quality. With many models offering high-definition sound, it’s an easy way to make sure that your beach day ambiance is always on point. Many speakers also come with extra features like buttons for changing songs and turning the volume up or down as well as auxiliary cord inputs for connecting other devices.

All in all, a waterproof Bluetooth speaker is an excellent gift for beach lovers. Offering both convenience and quality, it’s sure to help make any beach day better.

41. Portable Hammock

A portable hammock is a great gift idea for anyone who loves spending time at the beach!

Whether they are taking a break at the shore, enjoying a day at the park, or just want to relax in the backyard – a Wise Owl hammock is the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors.

This lightweight, compact hammock is not only easy to carry, but it is strong enough to hold two people!

It also comes with carabiner clips and straps that allow you to hang it anywhere and adjust the height according to your preference. This hammock is breathable, comfortable, and features an attractive chevron print and a durable 150D Oxford fabric, making it ideal for all types of adventures.

The construction and design of this hammock make it great for relaxing and spending time with friends or family. Plus, it comes with a storage bag for easy carrying and storage. Surprise your beach lover with the ultimate relaxation gift: a Portable Hammock!

42. Inflatable Kayak

One of the best gifts for beach lovers is an Intex Challenger Inflatable Kayak. This fun and convenient watercraft is perfect for taking to the beach, lake or river adventure. With an inflatable kayak, you can take a break from the sand and swim, explore, or just relax in the water.

These innovative kayaks are lightweight and feature an inflatable frame that provides maximum stability, as well as multiple air chambers that enhance buoyancy. The kayak also features adjustable seats, storage compartments, and inflatable adjusters, making it customizable for any user.

It is also highly durable, with a double reinforced PVC hull to handle any adventure!

Beach Themed Gifts

In this section of the best gifts for beach lovers, we’re looking at beach themed gifts. To be honest this list could have covered the entire article as there are so many different beach themed gifts you could purchase, so instead of long descriptions for these, I’ve simply recommended some great and fun themed beach gift ideas.

43. Flip Flop Keychain

44. Beach Artwork

45. Picture Frame

46. Throws/blankets

47. Candles

48. Tumblers

49. Jewelry Box

50. Coasters

51. Bags

52. Socks

53. Toiletry Bag

54. Kitchen Towels

55. Clocks

56. Drinking Glasses

57. Wind Chimes

58. Journals

59. Wall Art

60. Notebooks

61. Calendars

62. Make up Bags

63. Cushions

64. Bedding

Unique Beach Gifts

In this section of the best gifts for beach lovers are some beach unique gift ideas to surprise and delight your beach loving friend.

65. Floating Keychain

Looking for an inexpensive and handy gift to show your appreciation for the beach loving person in your life?

How about a floating keychain? Perfect for an outdoor enthusiast who needs to keep their keys safe during sport activities and beach trips, the Yahama Floating Keychain will not let them down.

Its cylindrical and lightweight design will easily attach to any bag or belt loop, and its soft, water-resistant outer layer will keep their keys safe and dry in depths of up to 20 feet.

This keychain is available in blue in color, so you can easily find something to suit the beach-loving person in your life. The floating keychain also makes a great souvenir of your beach vacation and a good reminder that tomorrow is another day of adventure.

66. Solar/USB Powered LED Light

One of the best gifts for beach lovers is the Goal Zero Solar/USB Powered LED Light. This incredible light is perfect for those fun-filled beach days that stretch into the evening. Not only is the light great for providing extra brightness at night, but it can also be used as a beautiful nightlight for relaxation and to set a romantic mood.

The light is powered either by USB or solar energy, making it both environmentally friendly and practical. During the day, the solar panel will absorb solar energy and store it in the built-in battery, allowing it to automatically turn on at nightfall. At the same time, you can also add an extra dose of brightness with the USB cable option.

This light is ideal for any beach lover as it is diverse, eco-friendly, and 100% waterproof. Not only can this be used around the beach area, but it can also be used to light up the inside of your RV or beach tent. There are several settings available to choose from, making it easy to customize. Furthermore, this LED light also operates silently and is highly durable, making it great for any beach adventure.

67. Portable Beach Bar

For the beach lover who has everything, how about a portable beach bar? It’s the perfect beach-ready addition for any outdoor gathering.

This lightweight, portable baris packed with features like the fully-stocked cup holders and ice bin. It sets up and breaks down quickly, meaning you can take it anywhere with you.  A great gift for any beach-lover or outdoor enthusiast, they’re sure to be impressed with this unique gift for beach lovers.

68. Personalized Gift

Why not personalize any of the gifts mentioned on this page by adding your beach lover’s name, or something personal to them.

You can personalize a beach towel, a journal, jewelry, travel tags, toiletry bags, notebooks, tumblers and chopping boards.

Best Gifts for Beach Loving Digital Nomads

Digital Nomads don’t need much as they’re usually trying to travel light and so don’t need any bulky gifts weighing them down.

Here are some suggestions for the beach loving digital nomad in your life;

69. Backpack

Best purchased with the nomad by your side. If they’re trekking around the world, they will want a backpack that fits them well and molds into the shape of their back. This depends on their height and weight etc. It’s best if they can try them on first.

Also backpacks come in varying weights so you’ll want to check with your nomadic pal precisely how much they want to carry on their back.

70. A Mirrorless or DSLR Camera

Perhaps your beach loving nomad friend is a photography enthusiast and loves to take photos of the ocean, sunsets and white powdery sand on their travels.

If so, you might want to consider buying them a powerful mirrorless or DSLR camera to complement their adventures.

My recommendation particularly for beginners or long term travelers is the Sony Alpha a6400.

This is a mirrorless camera and features a 24.2 MP Exmor CMOS sensor, which is capable of capturing photos and videos of extremely high quality. It also features a 180° tiltable LCD touch screen, making it easy for you to take stunning selfies for your blog and get creative with your shots. It comes equipped with a lot of powerful features, such as 4K Movie Mode, Eye AF, Interval Shooting and 4K HDR.

To summarize all the acronyms, it’s a pretty awesome camera that takes really good pictures!

In addition to its powerful features, the Alpha a6400 is lightweight, making it one of the most user-friendly cameras out there (and great for backpack travel).

71. Camera Accessories

If your budget doesn’t stretch quite as far as a camera, consider some camera accessories to go with the camera they already have.

Perhaps a small camera bag or protective case. Some extra batteries, a tripod, filters, SD cards etc.

72. Microfibre Quick Dry Towel

The last thing a digital nomad wants to be carrying is a big fluffy towel which takes up all the space and weight of their backpack.

These fast drying, lightweight, foldable microfiber towels come in a handy carry case which can slip into the side of a backpack and add no bulk to a traveler’s gear.

73. Sarong

For the female digital nomads in your life, a beach sarong can double as a towel, skirt, blanket, dress, sun dress, scarf, head scarf and more!

These versatile pieces of decorative cloth are the ideal gift for a beach loving digital nomad, and with no weight at all, fit perfectly in their backpack.

74. Travel Journal

What better way for a digital nomad to record their travels than via a lightweight easy to use travel journal.

A travel journal can help your beach loving friends, plan their trip, diarize their bookings, keep a track of budgets and record special events and memories.

Buy them unlimited access to a travel app, or purchase a beautiful personalized travel journal they can treasure forever.

75. Fun Travel Accessories

Don’t want to add to your digital nomad friends luggage weight? Here are some great ideas for travel accessories that’ll brighten up their baggage and their trip;

Baggage Tags

Passport Holder

Luggage Strap

Organizing Space Saver Bags

Toiletry Bottles

Refillable Perfume Spray Bottles

Best Gifts for Beach Lovers – Summary

Finding the perfect gift for a beach lover or digital nomad can be a challenge.

However, with this list of the 75 best gifts for beach lovers, you are sure to find something that will bring them the ultimate summertime travel joy.

Whether it’s a beach towel for basking in the sun, a sand-filled art piece to bring the beach indoors, or a kayak for a day out on the water, you’ll find something to delight your beach loving friend.

Have fun shopping!

The post 75 Best Gifts for Beach Lovers appeared first on The Working Traveller.

Great road trip games for couples can provide hours of fun on long drives, making the time spent on the road more of an adventure than a chore.

Here are a few tried and tested favorites, plus some more obscure ones where you can pretty much make up your own rules as you go along!

And if you want to make it super easy on yourself, check out the ready made road trip games for couples in the third section. My husband & I have played a few of these with hilarious results!

Road Trip Games for Couples – Tried & Tested Faves

1. I Spy

We’re starting with one of the most classic road trip games for couples and families alike, “I Spy.”

Players take turns being the guesser and the spy, and the game can last as long as you like or until you get bored!

As the spy, you say ‘I spy with my little eye something beginning with …’ and then provide the first letter of something you can see either inside or outside the car.

The guesser must figure out what you are looking at, and can guess as many times as they like.

This road trip game for couples can be made even more interesting with a little bit of imagination.

For example instead of the first letter, the spy could say something like, “I spy with my little eye, something round and red”.

Or the spy could assign point values to certain objects, making smaller, more common ones worth fewer points and trickier ones worth more points.

You can come up with your own rules and keep score throughout your road trip, creating a friendly competition!

2. 20 Questions

One of the best road trip games for couples is 20 Questions. This game can teach you a lot about each other in a fun way, and it’s easy to play on the road.

To start, one of you chooses a topic and then the other starts to ask questions about it.

For example, your partner can choose a place you’ve visited and you can come up with 20 questions about it. You can ask your partner questions about what they thought about the place, their favourite memories, and anything else you can think of.

Or to make it easier you can buy a bunch of question cards from Amazon & simply ask your partner what comes up on the cards.

This game can be an interesting way to learn more about each other while enjoying the scenery.

3. Truth or Lies

It’s tough to do truth or dare when one of you is driving, so an alternative road trip game for couples is ‘truth or lies’!

To play, one person starts by making a statement about something they have done in the past, or a funny anecdote. The other person must then determine if it is the truth or not.

The guessing partner has the chance to ask their partner any further questions to make their guess more accurate, like the location or timeframe in which the anecdote happened.

If both are in agreement about the answer, then the sharer scores a point. The person with the most points at the end of the drive wins!

4. Atlas

A simple but fun road trip game. One partner starts by naming a city, town or country. The other partner then has to name another city, town or country which starts with the ending letter of the previous name’s destination.

So for example, if your partner says ‘London’, you might say ‘Netherlands’, then they might say ‘Switzerland’ and so on.

The game continues until one or other can’t think of a place and the point is awarded to the winner. You can just play for fun or for the more competitive amongst you, for coffees, ice creams or lunch!

5. Name That Tune

No road trip would be complete without a few rounds of Name That Tune!

As a couple, you can challenge each other to a sing-off by taking turns playing snippets of different songs on your phone or car stereo.

A game like this is great for couples as it tests your knowledge of one another’s music taste. To make it even more fun, you can add a points system, with the one who names the most right genres and artists out of 10 getting to choose the next stops on the road.

It’s a great way to spend a long drive learning about the music preferences of your beloved and enjoying a laugh or two.

Make sure to come up with a shortlist of songs from various genres, from classic rock or old-school punk to chart-toppers of recent years.

Taking this game a step further, you can also use popular children’s music or TV show theme songs as a source of inspiration.

6. The Alphabet Game

The Alphabet Game is a great way to pass the time on a road trip for couples.

To play, one partner starts by saying “I’m going on a road trip, and I’m bringing…” while naming an item that begins with the letter “A.”

The other partner then follows with an item beginning with “B,” and the back-and-forth continues until someone can’t think of an item beginning with the appropriate letter.

You can easily customize the game by specifying items that fit the theme of your road trip destination – such as “I’m going to the beach and I’m bringing an anorak” or “I’m going to the Rockies and I’m bringing a – zipper.”

Alphabet Games are also recommended for couples who struggle with communication issues, as it encourages laughs and conversations about topics that don’t necessarily have to do with the relationship. Enjoy the game!

7. Kiss, Marry, Kill

Kiss, Marry, Kill is a classic road trip game for couples!

Start off by thinking of three people that both you and your partner know. They can be celebrities, friends or family members. Be sure to pick people you both know!

Then take turns and decide who you would “kiss”, “marry” or“kill” of the three people.

This game is a great way to get to know your partner on a deeper level, by finding out their likes, dislikes and general opinion of certain people.

It is also a great way to laugh together, as oftentimes the answers can be hilarious and out of the box.

Have your partner go first, take your turn and then discuss why you both chose these people. This can be an interesting and enlightening conversation that can provide further insight into the thoughts and opinions of your partner.

It’s important to make sure the game is kept light-hearted and meant to be fun though. This means not criticizing each other’s answers, especially with celebrities.

Put yourself in your partner’s shoes and don’t take it too seriously. Enjoy the game together and you’ll have a great time!

8. Two Truths and a Lie

Two Truths and a Lie is a classic game to play while on a road trip with your significant other.

Similar to Truth or Lies, but different, the game is simple.

Each partner takes turns telling two truths about themselves and one lie.

The other partner has to guess which is the lie.

You can make the game more interesting by adding a reward for correct guesses!

Some possible variations for two truths and a lie include guessing the truth about a destination you’ll be stopping at on your road trip, or about the people you’ll be visiting.

This game is great for getting to know more about your partner and building communication and trust. Try to make your truths and lies as creative as possible and you’ll keep each other entertained for hours!

You can even make a game out of guessing why each other lies or the meaning behind each lie. Fire up that car, grab a map, and get ready to Road Trip!

9. Would You Rather

If you’re looking for an easy and fun game to spice up your road trip with your significant other, you’ve got to try “Would You Rather?” This game is sure to get you giggling, if nothing else!

All you need to do is ask your partner a “Would You Rather” question, and they have to choose between two options.

For example, you can ask, “Would you rather go skydiving or swim with dolphins?” or “Would you rather camp in a tent or sleep in a luxury hotel?”

This game provides for a lot of interesting conversations, and will definitely bring up some unexpected answers.

You can use current events, locations along your road trip, or experiences from past trips: the possibilities are endless!

10. Celebrity Trivia

Celebrity Trivia is a great road trip game for couples. Test each other’s knowledge of famous people and entertainment with this game!

To play, one person asks a question about a celebrity and the other has to answer correctly.

You can keep score if you like or just see who knows the most. If your partner is stumped, Google is your friend!

Whenever you catch sight of a celebrity’s name or picture, ask each other questions and get to guessing!

Who knows, maybe you’ll even learn something new about each other as you go!

11. Don’t Yes or No

Don’t Yes or No is a fun and simple game that can make a long drive go by quickly.

This game involves asking questions in pairs and receiving a response other than yes or no. Players can even go so far as to make up a few of their own rules; the crazier, the better!

To start the game, one player begins the conversation with a question that their partner must answer with something other than a yes or no. This can be as outlandish as they like, but the reply must include more than one word.

For example, if one partner asks, “Do you want to go for ice cream?” the other partner must come up with a response such as, “I suppose we could stop for an ice cream” or “Chocolate fudge is my favorite!”

The conversation can go on for as many turns the couple wants, with each partner continuing to ask questions that cannot be answered with yes or no. Couples can even introduce rules like having the other partner respond with a song or using their hands to mime the answer.

Don’t Yes or No is a great game for couples to play on a road trip, as it will definitely liven up the journey!

12. Word Association

Word association is a classic road trip game that is perfect for couples, since it requires great communication and team work to progress.

The objective is to have both partners think of creative words that are associated with one another.

To start, one partner will begin by saying one word, then the other partner will have to come up with a word that is somehow related to the first one.

This can be a noun, verb, or adjective. The game can then continue with both partners getting their turn to give words, with the goal being to establish some sort of pattern between the two words.

For example, the two words might be related in a certain way; they might share the same root word, or be opposites of each other. After a certain number of turns, the couple can pick a new pattern to follow and repeat the game.

Besides being a fun way to keep the conversation flowing, this game is also a great way to practice valuable communication skills, such as finding the right words, listening, and understanding the other person’s perspective. With this game, couples can gain greater insight into their relationship and have a great time in the process.

13. Movie Game

The Movie Game is an entertaining road trip game for couples and great for livening up a boring drive.

Start the game by choosing a movie genre – it could be science fiction, comedy, romance or anything you fancy.

Take turns picking out a movie title from that genre, and writing it on a piece of paper that you fold up in front of you. (This is to stop cheating!)

The other person has to guess the movie by asking yes or no questions. For example, perhaps you chose ‘epic romance’ and wrote “Titanic” on the piece of paper.

Your partner could ask, “does the movie include a boat?” or “Does it feature Leonardo DiCaprio?”.

For each right answer, the guesser is awarded a point. Then switch to the other person and keep playing until you reach the best of 3 or the best of 5.

The Movie Game is a fun game for couples as it forces them to think quickly, plus it also helps improve your trivia skills.

14. Music Challenge

This is one of the most popular road trip games for couples. One person selects a song and then turns off the volume on the radio or their phone.

The other person has to try to guess the song by singing it, humming it, or just describing the song. This game will continue until the other person correctly guesses the song or gives-up after five guesses.

15. Charades

This classic game is always a fun way to pass time and make the ride more enjoyable. All you need to do is pick a person, place, or thing, and then act out the selection.

The other person has to guess the selection. This is a great way to practice your acting and facial expressions!

But be careful if you’re driving!

16. Spell It Out

This is a great game to help practice your spelling skills. One person will start off by saying a random word, and then the other person has to spell it out.

If the person spells the word correctly, they earn a point. To make this game more challenging, the person that spells out the right word can select a harder one for the next turn.

Try this one on for size;

“Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”

17. Song Talk

Song Talk is a great way to keep the conversation going during a long road trip.

In this game, each partner takes turns playing a song of their choice and then discussing why it has significance to them.

All topics are open to discussion, ranging from memories of a past trip to the feeling of connection to a certain artist. This game can be helpful for couples that may have different opinions on music.

This is a great opportunity to share some of your innermost feelings with your partner.

For example emotional songs might open up honest conversations about emotions and relationships, while upbeat songs might evoke positive memories or funny stories from your past.

This is both a fun game & a potential bonding experience. Enjoy!

18. Car Bingo

Car Bingo is a super fun road trip game!

All you need is a road trip bingo game sheet that you can print out online, purchase from Amazon or make your own.

Before the game starts, each couple chooses a row, column, or diagonal line they want to play and agree on the prizes. Like who drives next, who pays for lunch or who gets a big sloppy kiss!

During the road trip, every time one of you sees something on the bingo sheet, you cross it off your game card.

If you get a bingo, the game is over and you can claim your prize.

19. Guess Who

Guess Who is a great game for couples to play on the road. This two-player game involves guessing the identity of a mystery person based on a series of questions. To play Guess Who, each player selects a mystery person, and the other player must try to determine that person’s identity by getting as close as possible through yes-or-no questions.

This game is perfect for couples on a long drive, as it’s easy to set up and can be played with almost any kind of person or object.

To start the game, one partner thinks of a well known person or someone you both know. To stop any cheating they can write the name of that person on a piece of paper or a note app.

Then the guesser asks obvious questions, such as “Is this person a movie star?”, “Are they your best friend?” or “Does this person call you everyday?” until they narrow down the options and can make a good guess. If they guess correctly, they win the point. If they give up, you win the point!

Keep going, taking turns until someone wins, or you get bored!

20. Never Have I Ever

“Never Have I Ever” is usually a drinking game reserved for a group of friends on a night out, but you can adapt it to a road trip game with your partner.

The idea is that one person states something they have never done, and those who have done it must raise their hands. All those with their hands up take a “drink”.

Instead while in the car, one partner starts by saying “Never Have I Ever X” and if the other partner has done it, they can have a sweet or a chip, or some kind of treat and tell their story!

If they haven’t done it you can discuss whether it’s something you want to do together and add it to your bucket list!

Some examples of “Never Have I Ever” statements might be: “never have I ever visited a foreign country”; “never have I ever seen an opera”; or “never have I ever won something significant”.

Make sure to think of as many fun and lighthearted questions as possible.

More Fun Road Trip Games for Couples

21. Naming Game

The Naming Game is an enjoyable and creative road trip game for couples. The idea is to take turns coming up with a creative and unique name of an object that combines two words.

For example, a stoplight could become a “stoplightnin’” or a tree could be a “treelight.”

Take turns pondering and coming up with imaginative ideas by combining words that form a whole new object. When playing the Naming Game, set rules or “odds” that need to be followed to ensure you’re both on the same page.

For example, if the first person decides on “showermirror”, the other player must then come up with an object that starts with the same letter as the last letter of “showermirror” – like “ranchbowl.”

Through this game, think outside the box and explore creative concepts and ideas that you can share with each other that may inspire a project you’re working on or provide insight on an everyday object you’ve taken for granted.

Have fun, be creative, and see where this game takes you!

22. This or That?

The classic car ride game, “This or That” is a great road trip game for couples.

It’s simple to play, but can give rise to interesting conversations and debates.

To start, one person will ask a “this or that” question, such as “Do you prefer tacos or burritos?”

The other person must choose one of the two options. They can elaborate on their answer, but it’s not necessary.

The opponent will then get a chance to answer the same question, continuing back and forth between the couple.

This game can cover topics like books, movies, cuisine, cars, and more.

There is no set structure for the length of the game, so couples can take as much time as they want to contemplate each answer.

“This or That” is one of the more fun road trip games for couples and can help two people get to know each other better in a lighthearted way.

23. True Confessions

True confessions is a fun way to pass the time on a long road trip.

In the game, one partner will share something that the other partner didn’t know about them. (If there is anything – I’m a bit of an open book in my relationship!)

It could be something from the past, a guilty pleasure, or a funny quirk. The other partner can then take a guess and see if their partner reveals the truth. This game can be fun and lighthearted, or it can get deeper, depending on the couple’s comfort level.

It could be as silly as, “I once got stuck in a tree!”, or as serious as, “I’ve always wanted to move to a different country.” Regardless, it can be a great way to get to know each other more while on the road.

True confessions can also give couples the chance to ask each other questions that are difficult to ask, and talk about topics that they may not bring up in everyday conversation. It could give insight and clarity on things that weren’t as clear before, and also deepen their understanding of each other.

24. Storytelling

We all love a good tale and it’s even better when you share it with someone else.

Storytelling is a great way to keep things fun on a road trip and while it is important to listen to your partner, you can also take turns recounting stories.

Storytelling can range from tales of your childhood to stories about the places you are visiting.

You can even come up with silly stories together, telling a sentence each until the tale is complete.

Road Trip Games for Couples are all about creating shared experiences, so this can be a great way to break up long hours in the car and keep you both engaged with each other, while creating some hilarious moments along the way.

25. License Plate Game

This is a game that takes various forms depending on which version you want to play.

There’s the

• Read a plate and make up a word game – Example JFD 70 might be – Jolly Fat Dad ate 70 pies
• How many different license plates do you see on your travels – you can use different styles, colors, countries, states etc.

But my favorite is the – ‘guess where the plate is from’ game.

You might be road tripping through the US, so you can guess the state. If you’re traveling through Europe, you can guess the country. Even here in Thailand, I try to guess the province by reading the Thai words on the plates (yep I’m sometimes that bored!)

Use social media to help you research the right answers and have fun!

26. Compliment Game

The Compliment Game encourages couples to give positive feedback to each other and motivates them to focus on the positives in their relationship.

To begin the game, one person starts by giving a compliment to their partner. The partner then responds with a compliment of their own which leads to an alternating exchange of compliments.

The goal of the game is to see how long you can go without repeating a compliment.

The game also allows couples to focus on areas of their relationship they may overlook, as finding new compliments each time encourages players to dig deep into their partner’s best qualities.

This game beautifully showcases the appreciation and gratitude you have for each other and supports your goal of having a happy and exciting road trip. It’s a fun and lighthearted way to share compliments and make the most out of your shared travel experience.

27. Odd Color Cars

This is a bit of a random game, but remember that bright yellow tesla you recently saw or that turquoise blue sedan?

Yep that’s what I’m talking about. If you’re on a road trip in quite a busy area, this is more fun as you see more cars and can spot the truly odd colored ones.

If you’re driving across Australia, this could actually take days to just spot one, so choose your environment!

For an extra challenge, see if you can find unusual objects or natural phenomena in odd colors also. This can be things like the color of the sky or walls of a building passing in the background.

28. Finish It

This game is all about experimentation and coming up with creative phrases. One person starts a sentence or phrase, and the other person has to finish it with their own special style and spin.

You can come up with phrases such as “I love you because…” or “I wish we could…”. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and have fun with this game.

29. Name That State

Another popular game if you’re on a road trip in the US, is to name the states that you pass by. One partner can name the state and then give the other partner a hint as to which state is next.

This game can help pass time and also help you understand the various geographical regions of the United States. However, depending on where you’re driving it could take forever, so some alternatives include;

• Name the biggest cities in this state
• Name the Governor of the state we’re driving through
• Name all the states!

30. Word Formation

Similar to word association but with a twist, word formation will test your literacy skills!

One partner will say the beginning of a word, such as “tele” and the other person has to come up with words associated with it. Examples can include “telephone”, “teleportation”, “television”, and so on.

The more words you can think of the more points you get!

31. Trick Taking Card Games

Trick taking games can provide hours of card game fun. In Hearts, the objective is to avoid accumulating points by steering clear of certain penalty cards, like the Hearts and the Queen of Spades. In Spades, players aim to win a certain number of tricks based on their bids, working either individually or with a partner.

Both games are excellent for road trips as they are engaging, encourage strategic thinking, and can be easily played with a single deck of cards. Probably best played when taking a break, camping overnight or lunching on route!  

Ready Made Road Trip Games for Couples

32. So Cards

So Cards are a great way to skip shallow conversation and dive straight into the deep end.

If you think you know everything about your partner, think again! So Cards will ask questions you may never have thought off, eliciting responses from your partner you will definitely not have heard before!

Each deck comes with 52 question cards, 2 blanks, and 2 rule cards. It’s the perfect size to fit in your pocket or purse, making it an ideal road trip game for couples.

Use them to get closer with your partner and learn new things about them. The cards are designed to spark connections and encourage deeper conversations.

33. Carpool Chaos

Carpool Chaos includes 160 large, action-packed cards with games, challenges, hypothetical situations and all sorts.

If you’re looking for some fantastic prompts for road trip games and challenges this games pack is for you!

Plus, the box fits perfectly in the seat back pocket or door, making it easy to take on the road with you wherever you go.

34. License Plate Bingo

A ready made version of the License plate game, if you’re traveling through the US, this is a fab road trip game!

This set includes 4 reusable bingo cards. The cards each have finger tip shutter windows, which you’ll use to mark off your squares as you spot license plates from different states.

Whether you’re on a cross-country road trip or just driving to the beach, the License Plate Travel Bingo Set is a great way to make the journey more fun.

35. Road Trip Trivia

If you want to test your trivia skills this Travel Trivia Game is for you!

This fun and easy game is perfect for couples on road trips and for anyone who wants to learn more about interesting destinations around the world.

With 80 questions featuring multiple choice game play and bonus facts, this game is sure to wile away the hours, while teaching you a thing or two!

Got a ‘know it all’ husband who always wins trivial pursuits and happens to be driving? Just make up the answers and tell him he’s wrong (he can’t drive and check! )

36. Travel Puzzles / Riddles

Think Outside The Box is the perfect game for couples road trips!

Not only is it entertaining, but it also boosts your creativity and makes time fly. The portable size makes it great for on-the-go, and the simple gameplay and rules make it easy to pick up and play.

You will hear 40 stories with unexpected endings. Asking Yes/No questions only, try to restore the chain of events and find out what happened in the story. There will be 3 clues to use if you reach a dead end. The puzzles are challenging yet fun, and will require thinking outside the box to find creative solutions.

37. Shotgun Road Trip Game

This hilarious card game is great for couples road trips.

To play, one player is nominated as the card reader, and they will read the cards aloud. The other players must then respond to the prompt on the card. The game can be played until you reach your destination or until you stop for fast food… whichever comes first!

Shotgun contains 200 cards, a drawstring pouch for easy storage, and instructions. So, whether you’re on a long road trip or just looking for something to keep you entertained, Shotgun is sure to deliver plenty of laughs.

Road Trip Games for Couples – Summary

There’s no need to sit in silence or sleep all the way to a destination when you have all these options at your fingertips.

Road trip games for couples offer a great way to break up the monotony of a road trip and inject some fun and playfulness into your journey.

Whether you’re a competitive couple who love a good challenge or an easy-going pair who just want to pass the time, these games are sure to bring some much-needed entertainment.

Plus some of them will kick start some deeper conversations and you may learn things about each other which bring you even closer!

Now that you’ve explored some of the best Road Trip Games for Couples, get ready to make some lasting memories and have a blast on your next adventure!

The post 35+ Hilarious Road Trip Games for Couples & Digital Nomads appeared first on The Working Traveller.

You may want to write extensively about your experiences and feelings and keep them private. If so, you are probably better off with a paper journal and a pen.

Or maybe, you want to log the most important moments, photos, and travel routes and share them with your family and friends. In that case, a digital travel journal makes more sense.

Perhaps you’re an Instagram Influencer or blogger and want to keep copious notes for future posts/reels.

No matter your reason, if you’re looking for a travel journal app to maintain a digital log, this list of the 10 best travel journal apps will help you find the one that suits your needs.

Let’s start!

10 Best Travel Journal Apps

1. Day One Journal

With a Twitter-like interface, the Day One Journal is about capturing the important moments of your trip. The app can collect data such as location, weather, and music, for your travel photos and videos.

You can use this app as a digital diary and write using your finger or Apple Pencil and quickly comb through the entries using photos, timeline, or calendar. It even accepts voice commands.

This travel journal app can record fine details such as temperature, moon phase, weather, address, etc.

A free version is available, but upgrading to the premium version gives unlimited journal entries, photo storage, cloud sync, audio recording, and 25% off on book printing (if at some point you’d love to create a printed book of your adventures).

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android
• Mac
• Apple Watch
• Safari and Chrome browser extensions

Cost: $2.92 per month billed annually.

Perfect for: Anyone looking for an online version of a standard journal that can also include images, voice recordings and track your locations

2. Find Penguins

One of the top digital travel journals, Find Penguins uses GPS tracking and AI to automatically track your journeys.

It also updates temperature, weather, altitude, etc., giving you a quick snapshot of the conditions on a particular day.

All the data that the app gathers is then displayed in a fun way on an interactive map as a trail and posts.

Find Penguins refers to those posts as footprints that are essentially blog posts where you can attach photos, videos, and texts as diary entries.

If you want, you can order a printed photo journal complete with maps, photos, and footprints.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android

Cost: Free with in-app purchases. You can buy a monthly or yearly subscription for $4.99 a month or $29.99 a year respectively.

Perfect for: Anyone who needs the best travel journal app for automatic journey tracking.

3. Polarsteps

If you need a completely free travel journal app that not only helps you to plan and track your journeys but also doubles up as a digital travel diary, Polarsteps is one of the top travel diary apps you can find.

It comes complete with an editable itinerary planner and transport planner. It even plots and automatically tracks your path on a digital world map.

You are free to add thoughts, videos, and photos. If you want, you can leave tips for the traveling community, or retrace your steps by scrolling through your travel stats, photos, and places.

The app also supports printing a hardcover travel book with just a touch of a button. The best part? It works offline and allows you to manually add journal entries that can later sync when the internet is available.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android

Cost: Free

Perfect for: Anyone looking for a free travel tracker app that can track the travel route and keep the family informed!

4. Momento

Momento is more than just a travel journal app. It can double up as a project/work journal, pregnancy journal, or private journal.

This app can organize and streamline your social network activities from 11 social platforms. You can add photos & videos, tag your fellow travelers and places you visit, and even record your pregnancy journey!

Momento can also give daily, monthly, or yearly visual summaries, and allow you to explore past timelines.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS

Cost: Free with in-app purchases for paid upgrades.

Perfect for: People who need a multi-purpose digital journal that works not only as an online travel journal but also as a private and/or work journal.

5. Journi Blog

Journi Blog is a unique photo journaling app that you can use to record your travel experiences as timelines and maps or even have them printed as a photo book to show off to your friends and family members.

Whether you have a travel blog where you write about your vacations and travels, or whether you are maintaining personal travel diaries or recording your kids’ photo album, Journi Blog helps to capture all the moments and stories.

With this travel diary app, you can create a public travel journal or create a private journal entry.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android
• Web

Cost: Free with in-app premium membership purchase options. Membership costs €9.99 for one month, €43.99 for 6 months, and €53.99 for one year.

Perfect for: Those who want a photo journaling app.

6. Penzu

Penzu isn’t particularly designed to be a travel journal app. In fact, it is more of a reflective journal meant for note-keeping and milestone tracking. However, it can be used as a pregnancy journal, a food diary, and even a travel diary.

It will give you the feel of maintaining an online travel blog with the ability to add images, add photos, and write your travel stories. You can use custom tags to categorize your travel logs.

Penzu has an incredibly simple interface where you can record beautiful memories of your entire trip.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android
• Web

Cost: Free, Pro for $19.99 a year, and Pro+ for $49.99 a year.

Perfect for: Anyone who needs a private online journal or a digital diary with syncing ability across the web and multiple mobile devices.

7. Tripcast

Tripcast is one of the favorite travel journal apps for many users worldwide. The app is perfect to keep your friends and family members updated about your journey.

With Tripcast, you can create shared photo albums where your fellow travelers can upload and share photos they click and store them in a single place.

The app uses photo geotagging to create a map of the places you visit.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android
• Web

Cost: Free!

Perfect for: Those who are on a group vacation, or participating in volunteer projects.

8. Journey: Diary, Journal

Journey was listed as the Google Editors’ choice in the best travel apps category. Just like other travel diaries, Journey will help you to maintain a travel journal complete with texts, audio files, images, and videos.

You can also use this dedicated app to add location and weather details to all your journal entries.

If you want, you can download and keep your entries private on your computer. Alternatively, you can export them as PDF or DOCX files for easy sharing.

Journey is not just a simple travel journal app. It is a multi-purpose app that allows users to record anything they want such as a stress management journey, sleep journey, better habits development journey, and so on.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Mac
• Android

Cost: Journey is a free app, but there is an in-app membership purchase option for $3.99 a month or $29.99 a year.

Perfect for: Those who need a multi-purpose journal app that can also be used as a digital travel diary.

9. Diarium

Diarium is another great app that allows maintaining a travel journal using a calendar interface.

You can quickly attach texts, audio files, and images, and even tag multiple entries in a single day.

There is an option of adding a sitemap with location info. Plus, the app will display a wide range of data including your fitness data, weather info, and calendar events.

You can easily export entries in HTML or DOCX formats. Journal entry is possible using a laptop, PC, mobile, or tablet.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Mac
• Android
• Windows

Cost: Diarium is free, but offers in-app purchases. You can purchase a lifetime pro version for $5.99.

Perfect for: Those who want a travel journal app without committing to a monthly or yearly subscription.

10. Worldee Trip Planner & Journal

Worldee is a popular digital travel diary that not only allows you to organize and store your travel memories.

You can mark the countries visited on an interactive world map, add timelines, photos, and maps, and even share your trips.

You can share your stories with other travelers or you can keep everything private. The app will also help you to plan your next trip using the integrated trip planner.

With the trip planner, you can set your itinerary and travel map on the same screen and then share your trip details with your travel partners.

Platforms Supported:

• iOS
• Android

Cost: The app is completely free to use.

Perfect for: Those who want a completely free digital travel journal.

More Journal Apps to Consider

1. Trotter It

Trotter It is a digital travel journal app that allows you to create and share travel stories with travelers across the world. It also doubles up as a social networking app for travelers. The app is available only through Google Play Store and is completely free to use.

2. Jauntlet

A mix of a travel journal and a free travel blog, Jauntlet allows you to present your trips in a neat timeline. The app connects with Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, and imports photos from different profiles.

You can add the location to a post to add it to the map and write your story. Jauntlet is a web application that offers a platform-independent mobile site.

3. Esplorio

A beautiful and interactive travel journal app, Esplorio can record trips even without a data connection. You can choose what to share publicly and what to keep private.

It easily integrates with social platforms to retrieve previous journeys. The app is free but there is a pro plan available for $49.99 per year. It is available on iOS devices and through a web app.

4. Traverous

Traverous is an automated travel journal application that uses GPS data to track and record your trip. It also records media and location to create a personalized animated travel diary. The app is free to use but to unleash its full potential, you will need a premium account that costs $4.99 a month or $54.99 a year. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices.

How to Choose the Best Online Journal App

Choosing the best online journal app can be tricky. They’re all so good and you need to pick one that does everything you want it to.

Here are a few tips on choosing the best online journal app:

• Ease of use: The app you select should be straightforward and easy to use. An overly complex app will only make your life difficult.
• Mobile apps: Since you will mostly be traveling with your phone or ipad, the app must have versions for either iOS or Android or both. However, digital nomads traveling with laptops can always use web apps.
• Social features: The app you select must be able to integrate with social platforms. If the app has a built-in community feature, it is even better, especially for group tours and backpackers.
• History: The company developing the app must have a proven history of offering digital journaling services. You will not want to use it only to see that it is no longer under development.
• Cost: The app you select must be cheap. Expensive subscription plans can put budgetary pressure.
• Security: If you want your journal entries to be private you need to ensure the app has end to end encryption services.

Best Travel Journal Apps FAQs

Is there a free journaling app?

Yes, there are a few free travel journal apps available today. While some are dedicated digital travel diaries, others are all-purpose digital journals that can be used for keeping travel records.

Day One Journal has a free version, Polarsteps is completely free, Penzu has a free version and Tripcast is free. Try them out and see which one you like the best!

What’s the best app to track everywhere I’ve traveled?

Most of the digital travel diaries listed above can track every place you have traveled. Apps like Day One Journal and Find Penguins can not only track the places you visit but also add additional data like weather, temperature, altitude, address, and more.

Best Travel Journal Apps Summary

Digital travel diaries or journal apps are immensely beneficial (and fun) as they help to organize your travel experiences and keep your memories stored in a single place.

They will allow you to add written notes, images, videos, audio files, tags, etc., and help you to easily share your experiences with friends and family, or other users.

For digital nomads or influencers, some come with customizable layouts for enhanced personalization and some will even allow you to blog automatically and share moments of your trips with your readers.

Try a few out and select the one that is within your budget and meets your needs the best. Hopefully, this list of the best travel journal apps will assist you in finding an awesome journal for your travels!

The post 10 Best Travel Journal Apps to Organize Your Travel Memories appeared first on The Working Traveller.

My husband used to say if I packed it I’d have to carry it, and so after a couple of trips where I’d take way more than I needed and didn’t wear/use half of it, I started to pack less and less.

It was only after backpacking across India with my sister in 2019 however, did I learn the true art of packing light.

We took only one carry-on bag each, weighing 7kg for a 3 week trip from Nepal, through India and on to the Maldives.

Something about packing light for that trip and being able to travel light across a huge country like India, taking my bag on and off planes, and avoiding the long waits at the airport baggage claim was truly liberating!

Plus I realized we really don’t need as much as we think we do and it’s just about being savvy, exploring all options for how to travel light and using the best travel gear available to minimize how much we pack.

These days there are so many fantastic gadgets, tools, alternatives and tech gear to help us pack lighter.

So let’s get cracking, here are my top tips for packing light;

19 Tips & Hacks for Packing Light

1. Make a packing list

Much like going to the supermarket, you’ll be far more efficient if you make a list of absolute necessities first.

Here’s an example of my packing list which rarely weighs more than 7KG;

Clothes

• Swimming costume or bikini / Light Beach dress
• 2 x pairs of shorts / 2 x light summer skirts / 3 x t-shirts
• 1 x ‘going out’ dress
• 2 x night shorts & tee
• 14 x underwear (I always take a lot as I hate washing underwear in hotel sinks)
• 1 skin color plunge bra (can wear under black or white, and with posh dress or t-shirts)
• 1 x flip flops or thongs or sandals (depending where you’re from in the world)
• 1 x trainers / sneakers (which I generally wear when traveling from place to place or hang off the back of my bag
• 3 x trainer socks / 1 x leggings / 1 x light cardigan

Toiletries

• Travel size all in one Shampoo/Conditioner (sacrilege to some women, but hey I want to travel light) / Travel size shower gel
• Mascara / Bronzer
• Makeup wipes
• Small battery powered toothbrush / 50ml toothpaste
• Travel size sun lotion / 50SPF lip balm
• Hairbrush / Hair scrunchies
• Travel size body moisturiser / Deodorant

Medical

• Antihistamines / Paracetamol / Ibuprofen
• Tiger Balm / Plasters
• Ear Plugs / Face mask /
• Mask / Hand Sanitizer

Technical

• Adapter / Phone/ Kindle/ Computer & Fitbit chargers
• Phone – iPhone / Computer – Macbook 12” Notebook
• Kindle

Useful Extras

• Ziplock bags & spare plastic bag – for anything and everything!
• Travel Bags – for separating tops/shorts/underwear etc, and also great for laundry
• Combination padlock

My husbands bag usually weighs less than mine and he takes;

Clothes

• 2 x shorts (Both double as swim shorts) / 2 x tees
• 7 x socks / 7 x boxers
• 1 x ‘going out’ shorts & tee
• 1 x croc flip flops / 1 x trainers/sneakers
• Travel size shampoo / 1 x razor / Deodorant / Toothbrush
• Phone / Kindle / Computer

Write down details about your trip and make a list of what you’ll need for each activity. Then work out how you can make some of your clothes dual purpose (shorts can be swim shorts for example) and lay everything you think you need out on your bed.

If it’s still too much, be strict! Do you really need that extra tee?

2. Choose a light bag

A big mistake many travelers make is by choosing a heavy suitcase or backpack.

Sure it would be great to get that back that doubles as a backpack and wheely case, but remember if you’re going carry on bags, every extra feature weighs a little more and means less stuff in your pack.

Pick a backpack or suitcase that’s ideally under 2kg (2.2lb) and around 40L capacity to fit everything neatly inside.

I personally use either my Firetrap backpack which unzips like a suitcase or the Matein gray backpack, which is sturdy, water resistant, comfortable to wear and has lots of pockets and storage areas, so I can organize my packing super efficiently!

Another recommended bag is the Fendong 40L lightweight backpack.

If you’d prefer a suitcase with wheels, your best bet is the 21 inch Travelpro Maxlite expandable case. Weighing in at 5.4lbs (2.5kg), you’ll need to be more efficient with what you pack, but if you want the luxury of wheeling rather than carrying, this case is one of the lightest around.

3. Use packing cubes/bags

Packing cubes or bags are to help you organize your clothes more efficiently.

Just because you’re packing in smaller bags, does not mean your luggage is lighter! Compression merely means smaller. I know that sounds obvious but some of the marketing language on these products can be a little misleading.

You also don’t need to pay through the nose for fancy packing bags. On my recent 3 week trip across Europe and then Dubai, I used these bags which only cost $7.99 and did a fantastic job of helping me to separate tops, shorts, underwear, dirty clothes etc.

If you’re looking for more colorful bags, I recommend this 8 cube set in multiple colors.

4. Roll, don’t fold

Rolling your clothes doesn’t necessarily save space. Your clothes will take as much space as your clothes will take, whether you roll, fold or throw in!

However, to keep your clothes crease free and to be able to maximize bag space without leaving lots of gaps, your best bet is to pack clothes by rolling them rather than folding.

I had a dress I wanted to wear in Dubai that I carried with me through Europe for 19 days rolled up in the bottom of my backpack. When I pulled it out, there was hardly a crease to be seen!

5. Take minimal toiletries in small containers

I don’t know about you, but my toiletries are always what weighs the most!

Once I’ve included my favorite body spray, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, deodorant, contact lens solution, electric toothbrush, etc, etc!

So it’s time to get strict! Almost everything you want to take can be bought along the road. Even countries in far out places will sell basic essentials and any personal item you may need these days.

Stop being a hair product snob and buy a two in one shampoo/conditioner, then transfer it to a small bottle. Take a small travel size shower gel. Leave the electric toothbrush and charger at home and buy a cheap disposable battery powered toothbrush. Ladies, wear less makeup!

Here’s what’s in my toiletry bag;

• Travel size all in one Shampoo/Conditioner / Travel size shower gel
• Mascara / Bronzer
• Makeup wipes
• Small battery powered toothbrush / 50ml toothpaste
• Travel size sun lotion / 50SPF lip balm
• Hairbrush / Hair scrunchies
• Travel size body moisturiser / Deodorant

Here is the best invention ever for those of us who like to smell nice – portable mini refillable perfume atomizers! Easily fill with your fave perfumes and throw in your bag!

Also I regularly buy packs of travel bottles to take a variety of liquids in handy, safe for carry on, containers.

6. Only pack for a week to 10 days

No matter how long you’re going to be traveling for, the secret is to only pack for 7 – 10 days.

Take a small wash powder for washing essentials in a sink when you need to and be prepared to head to a launderette on route.

On my recent trip across Europe, my sister & I found a launderette in Venice and sat at a cafe opposite drinking wine while our clothes washed and dried. Then again in Luxembourg, where I sat in a cafe next door drinking a hot, sweet macchiato latte!

Who said washing couldn’t be fun!

7. Use a luggage scale

If you’re determined to take only hand luggage, a luggage scale is essential.

You’ll want to be sure your carry on size bag is no more than 7kg or 12kg, depending on your airline limits.

I’ve used a multitude of scales over the years for carry on and some seriously heavy bags (before I worked out how to pack light!)

It may sound silly, but it’s important to use scales which fit well in your hand and are designed to help you lift your luggage easily while being able to read the weight!

One set of scales I had, you had to be a contortionist to be able to lift a 20kg bag and see the weight on the side of the scale!

Here are the luggage scales I use and recommend. Easy to lift and easy to see the weight. Plus super lightweight themselves if you plan on doing some shopping while overseas and need to take them with you!

8. Take dryer sheets to keep everything smelling nice

Inevitably you will have to wear the same clothes several times between washes. A great way to keep your clothes smelling nice is to add in the sheets generally used for tumble dryer washes.

This keeps your clothes, bag and shoes (stuff them inside the shoe), smelling fresh and lovely!

9. Ladies! Take a skin color bra for all color clothes.

I used to pack a black bra and a white bra to cater for different color clothes. I would even take a separate plunge bra for lower cut dresses and tops.

Nowadays, a skin colored plunge bar caters for all occasions & outfits!

I also take a super light skin colored non wired t-shirt bra, which folds up to almost nothing for slouchy or low exercise days.

10. Fold underwear into a small cuff shape

A great way to save space and take as much underwear as possible, is to fold your underwear up into a small cuff like shape. This works for womens knickers/panties & mens briefs/boxers.

Simply lay your underwear flat facing up. Fold the sides into the middle, left to middle right to middle. Then starting at the bottom, roll the underwear up and tuck into the waistband.

It takes some practice, but the end result is a tight small oblong shape that can be neatly added to a packing bag or cube.

11. Use the same moisturizer for body & face

One for the ladies, if you apply moisturizer daily use the same one for your face and body.

Clearly if you tend to use ridiculously expensive face cream, this isn’t a tip for you. However, to save space and weight this is a great hack and these days there are some fantastic products which will work just as well no matter where you apply them!

12. Wear trainers, pack sandals

I spend my life in flip flops (thongs/sandals) or trainers/sneakers.

For big walk days I’ll want to wear my trainers. For more relaxed days I’ll want to wear my flip flops.

When traveling from place to place, always wear your heaviest shoes and pack your lightest!

13. Use clothes for dual purpose

On a hike last week, my good friend rocked up in some awesome hiking trousers which doubled as shorts. All she had to do was to unzip the trouser just above the knee and hey presto, shorts!

You can use your clothes for multiple purposes if you’re clever.

• Shorts can double as swim shorts.
• A sports bra can double as a bikini top.
• A sarong can be used as a skirt, a cardigan/throw or a makeshift towel.
• A day t-shirt can easily be made into an evening shirt with a necklace and belt.

As you pack, ask yourself how you might be able to use an item of clothing for a second or third purpose, rather than taking something extra.

14. Quick Drying Clothes

Ditch the jeans my friend! Not only are they heavy, bulky and actually not that comfortable to travel in, they’ll also take hours to dry if you’re caught in a rainstorm!

Your goal is to take lightweight clothes that dry fast. This helps when out and about and if you have to do a quick wash in a hotel bathroom.

15. Take a lightweight fast drying towel (optional)

To be honest this is an optional item.

Most hotels and hostels will provide small shower towels, so if you’re desperate and need a towel for the beach you can usually grab one of theirs, albeit it might be very small!

However, if you’d prefer to have your own towel on hand, something light and quick dry is preferable!

Microfibre is the way to go and here’s the towel I recommend.

16. Take a jewelry organizer (optional)

To be honest I don’t wear a lot of jewelry, and if you’re the same, then don’t even bother.

However, every now and again a nice necklace or dangly earrings adds to a plain t-shirt and turns it into evening wear!

Depending on the type of trip I’m taking sometimes I will opt to take some extra necklaces and jewelry with me, however simply throwing a necklace into a toiletry bag generally means half an hour of trying to untangle it at the other end!

A jewelry organizer is a game changer!

Here’s the one I use – Becko Jewelry Organizer – small, lightweight, stores 6 – 8 necklaces, loads of earrings, rings and bracelets, it’s easy to slip into your backpack and ensures your necklaces don’t get all tangled up.

17. Post souvenirs home

Looking to do some shopping while abroad? Consider sending souvenirs home rather than lugging them around with you.

Many shops will package up bulky items and happily send them for you, at a cost of course!

18. Take a small foldable rucksack for days out

Even as a digital nomad or long term traveler, you’ll likely be staying at a hotel or hostel, leaving your main backpack and heading out exploring for the day.

At the very least you’ll want to head out for dinner without having to take your luggage with you.

I recommend a small foldable rucksack or small bag, you can put your essentials in, such as a purse or wallet and phone, your water bottle and of course your passports or valuables you don’t want to leave anywhere.

When you’re ready to travel again, you simply fold it back up and slip it into your main backpack until the next time you need it!

19. Take a tech kit

Being a digital nomad, I always take a tech kit containing my charger cables, power bank, my adapter, extra camera battery etc.

This is the handy pouch I use to organize all my cables etc.

And this is the excellent universal adapter I use, which covers every country you can think of and includes USB ports and a USB type C port.

5 More Tips for Packing Light for the Cold!

So what happens if you’re going to a cold country, but still want to travel light?

Here’s some tips and tricks for packing light for the cold.

1. Take leggings instead of jeans. Men take Chinos instead of jeans
2. Wear leggings under light walking trousers
3. Wear your heavy stuff like your main jumper & coat & pack your lighter clothes
4. Layer clothes with multiple thin layers
5. Pack light thermals!

Tips for Packing Light Summary

As you can see there are so many ways to make packing light easier and more efficient.

Even if you want to take checked baggage as opposed to carry on, packing light means less risk of excess baggage fees, less creased clothes, less space used in your hotel wardrobe, less washing and more flexibility if you want to explore different areas of the country you’re visiting.

For digital nomads or long term travelers packing light is a skill which must be mastered!

As silly as this may sound it’s also a liberating experience to travel more minimally, focusing only on the essentials.

I hope this article has given you some great ideas to pack light for your next world expedition. Happy packing!

The post Packing Light; 24 Expert Tips to Travel Light (From a Fellow Traveler) appeared first on The Working Traveller.

Helping to plan, track, and then record your journeys, activities, experiences, and memories, your travel journal becomes both your guidebook and keepsake.

But what kind of travel journey is best for your trips?

That’s what we’ll be exploring in this post.

Travel Journal Features to Consider;

1. What’s it for? (Memory, blog notes, places to revisit)

When choosing a travel journal the first thing to think about is what’s it actually for?

I write travel blog posts, so for me, it’s a tool to help me highlight the best experiences, and the best places to visit and make notes about the best points of interest to include in my posts.

It also serves as a bit of an activity planner, and a reference guide should I return to somewhere I’ve been before and want to remember the best hotel, restaurant, etc.

So what will you use your journal for? If it’s more of a pre-trip planner, you’ll want to make sure it includes packing lists and pages for dates, times, trip reference numbers, etc.

If it’s for drawing or writing poetry about the places you visit perhaps you’ll want plain pages with nothing on them to fill them with your creativity.

Perhaps you want somewhere to load or stick photos, or simply want a beautiful notebook to journal your days.

2. Vacation or Long Term Travel

Secondly, are you a long term traveler or digital nomad like me? If so, the type of journal you’ll need will likely be very different than if you’re heading off on a 2 week vacation from work.

As a long term traveler, you’ll want more sections to split the countries, the journal will need to be digital or at least light enough to fit in a backpack and it will need to last a long time as you traverse across the globe.

If it’s a keepsake of a wonderful holiday, it can be bigger – to fit inside a suitcase, lean more towards a photographic memory book, or a journal of your activities and best experiences.

3. Format (Digital, Printable or book)

Once you know what your travel journal is for and the kind of size, and type you want, it’s time to decide the format of your journal.

As a digital nomad, if you have an iPad, a digital journal is ideal. You can use goodnotes or notability and keep track of as many countries, trips, and experiences as you like without ever running out of space!

Perhaps you’re someone who enjoys putting pen to paper and if this is the case a printable or physical travel journal is a better choice for you.

4. Size

If you go down the physical journal route, you’ll need to consider the size and weight of your travel journal. You don’t want a journal that’s too big and heavy and yet, it needs to be big enough to be useful.

Be sure to look at the weight when looking at listings on Etsy or Amazon and in particular note what the cover is made of. A hardback book will always be more bulky than a paperback for example.

5. Guided or Freestyle

Lastly, do you want a guided travel journal with pre-scripted pages including packing lists, trip itineraries, journal highlight pages, etc? Would you rather have a simple lined notebook for you to fill with your thoughts and memories, or is a plain art style scrapbook more to your liking?

There are travel journals for every type of traveler, so be sure to try out a few and pick the style that works for you!

Here are 10 recommended travel journals to get you started.

Best Travel Journals

1. The Clever Fox Travel Planner

Embark on your travel dreams with the Clever Fox Travel Planner, your essential companion for adventure and exploration. With its eco-leather hardcover and compact A5 size, it’s durable and portable, designed to fit seamlessly into your travel gear. Its premium 120gsm paper ensures a smooth writing experience, capturing your memories and plans without the worry of ink bleed-through.

Features include:

• Bucket List & Itinerary Planning: Dedicated sections for crafting your ultimate travel bucket list and detailed daily itineraries, ensuring you make the most of every trip.
• Travel Essentials: Includes safety tips, a packing checklist, and helpful travel information to keep your journeys smooth and worry-free.
• Document Your Adventures: Ample space for journaling, sketching, and storing ticket stubs or photos, turning your planner into a cherished keepsake.
• Premium Paper Quality: Thick 120gsm paper that’s perfect for a variety of pens and pencils, ensuring your writing stays crisp and clear.
• Functional Design: Features a pen loop, elastic closure, and a bookmark for convenience, along with a pocket for loose notes and stickers for personalization.
• Satisfaction Guarantee: Backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee, providing peace of mind for your purchase.

Designed for every type of traveler, from weekend wanderers to seasoned nomads, the Clever Fox Travel Planner is the perfect tool to fulfill your wanderlust and keep your travel memories alive.

2. The Moleskine Traveller’s Journal

The Moleskine Traveller’s Journal is your dedicated companion for every kind of trip, designed to capture the essence of your travels, from quick getaways to epic journeys. Its structured format not only helps you plan meticulously with practical tips and an extensive calendar but also serves as a canvas to record and preserve your travel memories. With its high-quality hardcover and acid-free paper, it’s built to withstand the rigors of travel and time, turning into a cherished collection of your adventures.

Features include:

• Comprehensive Planning: Intro pages with an 8-year calendar, timeline, and sections for up to 20 Short Trips and 6 Long Trips, allowing for detailed pre-trip planning including checklists, budgeting, and must-see recommendations.
• Travel Memories & Wish List: Ample space to reflect on past travels and dream up future destinations, ensuring your wanderlust is always fueled.
• Scrapbook Ready: Transform the journal with tickets, photos, and mementos post-travel, creating a personalized scrapbook of your adventures.
• Quality Craftsmanship: Features ivory-colored 70 g/m² acid-free paper, a hard cover with themed debossing, rounded corners, elastic closure, and 2 ribbon bookmarks for durability and ease of use.
• Organized Note-Taking: Tabbed sections and themed introductory pages guide your journaling, with 400 pages for extensive note-taking and themed stickers to customize your journal.
• Elegant Presentation: Comes in a premium box with themed graphics, making it a perfect gift for travel enthusiasts and a splendid addition to your travel book collection.

3. Travel Journal by Duncan & Stone

A premium travel notebook, this beautiful travel journal measures 7.75 x 9.25 inches with 100 pages, making it easy to carry around in your backpack or travel bag.

Features include:

• Traveling Scrapbook with Prompts – Fill out basic details, favorite memories, & photos from each trip to remember the specifics that made the trip unforgettable
• Personalize your memory organizer by writing down your bucket list & special memories from 15 trips
• Adventure Journal Made to Last – A high-quality heirloom journal with a linen-bound hardcover diary and an embossed title made to last a lifetime
• Create a family keepsake journal to capture all your important travel memories
• Close the flap pocket in the back for additional keepsakes

4. Page a Day Artisan Leather Travel Journal

A beautiful vegan leather travel notebook with a handsome page-a-day journal design features travel and cloud motifs, decorative stitching, embossing, and soft, leather-like cover material.

Features include:

• A page a day with just enough space to take note of memorable places you’ve visited and explored, but brief enough for you to have more time to experience those places, rather than spending time writing about them.
• Each page provides space for you to note the Date, Location, and Weather, and jot down your own notes.
• Smooth-finish paper takes a variety of pens or pencils beautifully.
• Dotted lines subtly guide your writing.
• The paper is acid-free and of archival quality.
• A ribbon bookmark keeps your place.
• An elastic closure secures your writing.
• Tuck maps, tickets, and other flat travel mementos within the inside back cover pocket.
• Complementary cloud-pattern design endpapers.
• Sturdy bookbound-style binding.
• Rounded corners for reduced wear.
• Measures 5” wide x 7” high.
• Compact size fits easily into most bags and backpacks.
• 176 writing pages.

5. Papier Travel Journal

Set off on your adventures with the Papier Travel Journal, an essential accessory for every travel enthusiast. With its elegant foiled cover and meticulously designed pages, this journal is perfect for planning your trips and preserving your most cherished travel memories. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an epic journey, this journal ensures that every detail of your travels is captured and treasured.

Features include:

• Structured for Six Journeys: Organize up to six separate trips, with dedicated sections for budgets, itineraries, packing lists, and all your essential travel planning needs.
• Memory Preservation: Ample space to journal, scrapbook, and highlight your favorite travel memories, ensuring every moment is recorded for posterity.
• Engaging Extras: Includes travel games and a world map to color in, perfect for entertainment during those long journeys.
• High-Quality Construction: Boasts 192 pages of 85gsm paper with a silk finish, ensuring durability and a smooth writing experience, all encased in a 3mm hardback cover.
• Unique Designs: Choose from a selection of eclectic designs to find one that resonates with your personal style, making your travel journal as unique as your adventures.
• Ideal Gift: A thoughtful choice for a Christmas stocking filler, a colleague’s farewell, a teacher’s thank you, or a personal treat to fuel your wanderlust.

6. Everywhere You Go Compendium

This unique guided planner holds unexpected daily journal prompts to help inspire thoughtful reflections from any travel adventure. It includes breakout spreads with uplifting quotes to help frame your thoughts and experiences, along with space for packing lists, notes, addresses, and things you want to remember.

Features include:

• Foil stamping on a soft cover and a ribbon marker. Printed with soy and metallic inks.
• 5.75″W x 8.5″H, 112 pages
• Quick snapshot pages to record important memories
• Unique travel pages to list trip highlights
• Creative prompts and inspiring goal-setting quotes
• An elegant gift to celebrate a travel adventure, retirement, bon voyage party, or big vacation

7. Leather Journal Notebook & Sketchbook for Women

A premium leather notebook, made of high-quality soft leather, comfortable in your hands and suitable for pockets or bags. Durable for outdoor activities, travel, and storage. Exquisite printing on the front cover makes it more retro and attractive.

Features include:

• Notebook Inserts – good quality craft paper, sturdy but smooth for most pens and pencils, such as fountain pens, and ballpoint pens, with no bleed-through.
• Comes with 6 card slots and a zipper pouch.
• Freestyle traveler notebook including 180 blank pages, perfect for writing, drawing, sketching, quick notes, sticking ticket stubs, or other memorabilia.
• Refillable diary, super-easy to remove or replace and make as thin or as bulky as you want.
• Multifunctional vintage travel journal – works well for journaling, spiritual or gratitude journals, bullet journaling, art journaling, daily planner, adding notes, doodles, and to-do lists.
• Perfect for all travelers whether vacationing or a digital nomad.
• A lovely gift for yourself, your family, or friends for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Birthday, etc.

8. Handcrafted Vintage Leather Journal for Life with Accessories

A High-quality full-grain 100% leather journal that looks, smells, and feels beautiful. Naturally tanned leather will age with character and develop its own unique patina. A lifelong keepsake for your travel thoughts and expressions.

Features include:

• Refillable travel journal. Buy this leather notebook once and use it for a lifetime.
• Fountain Pen-friendly paper for writing.
• Blank and un-lined.
• 90 double-sided sheets (180 total). Refills available online
• Contains 1 Standard-size travelers notebook with three BLANK inserts, Wanderings leather notebook conditioner, Kraft paper card holder, and PVC pouch, a binder clip to help stay organized, with 2 elastics for replacements or to add additional inserts. Almost a $50 value if purchased separately.
• A stunning leather travel journal, carefully handcrafted for quality with a rustic, vintage look, soft and supple feel, and the durability of leather journals.
• Also available on Amazon in sizes A6 (B083JYG6VR), A5 (B07JNPNKKJ), Pocket (B01N24BYQ7), and Large (B079K8GS6W).
• Money back guarantee – If for any reason you don’t love the Wanderings leather notebooks please let them know and they’ll send you a refund – no questions asked

9. Travel Journal for Teens

Features Include:

• Pages for documenting trip itineraries and calendar overviews of travels
• Six pages for each day of traveling, or for each stop on their itinerary: Three pages with writing prompts and three pages for additional journaling, sketching, and attaching items such as photos, tickets, postcards, etc.
• Prompts for location, weather, mode of travel, favorite activities, people met, favorite foods, funny experiences, and much more!
• Packing checklist
• Ideal for teens and tweens!
• The compact 6″ x 9″ size is perfect for taking along on travels
• 120 prompted pages, providing space to document 19 days or 19 destinations on your trip
• Colorful, fun cover design
• Matte, softcover paperback

10. Travel & Activities Journal for Kids

Features Include:

• Over 100 games, puzzles, mazes, mad libs, journal prompts, scavenger hunts, and other activities
• Reduce screen-time with interactive activities that both kids and families can enjoy on the road
• Take a road trip to get away from it all, while the kids are happy, occupied, and engaged
• Enjoy the journey as much as the destination, no phones, apps, computers, or screens required
• Create the Ultimate Playlist
• Photo Scavenger Hunt
• You’re a Poet
• Car Yoga
• Rainbow Cars
• Interview with a Passenger
• Learn to Write in Code
• Make a Grass Whistle
• Daily Journal Pages
• Rebus Puzzle
• Car Maze
• Travel Log Pages
• Match the Signs
• Logo Quest
• And much more!

Best Travel Journals Summary

As a traveler, not keeping a track of your journeys, activities and events means hours of searching through your photos to remember where you’ve been!

Instead, start journaling now, note down all the important things that happened and enjoy hours of leafing through old entries remembering all your fun times.

As a digital nomad it’s an imperative planning & learning tool! With each experience you’ll discover something new which can help with future travels, so purchase or download your travel journal right now and start tracking your trips!

Have fun!

P.S. Do you have a specific question you’d like me to answer in a blog post, podcast or in my weekly newsletter? If so click below and ask away!

The post 10 Best Travel Journals to Inspire Your Wanderlust appeared first on The Working Traveller.

Travelling is an amazing adventure and offers many once in a lifetime experiences. Whether you’re traveling to a foreign country or are looking for a destination just a few hours away, you can never have enough travel planning tips.

In this post, I have collated some of my best travel tips I’ve discovered over the last 14 years to alleviate stress, save time and money, and help ease travel burdens.

Whether you want to eat street food in Asia, journey off the beaten track in Central America, or simply want to check out the tourist attractions in Europe, this is the ultimate travel tips guide for you!

Travel Planning Tips

1. Make Sure Your Passport is Up To Date!

Obvious I know, but many countries won’t let you in if there’s less than 6 months on your passport. So double check your dates and make sure you’re good to go!

2. What Visas Will You Need?

Over the last few years as remote work has accelerated, more and more countries are opening up their borders and offering digital nomad visas. That’s not to say you need one.

The visa you’ll need depends greatly on where you’re from, how long you intend to stay in your destination, and what you plan to do while there.

Resources such as ivisa.com or atlys.com can help you determine the type of visa you need.

3. Get Your Shots

These days whenever we talk about vaccinations the first thing that springs to mind is the dreaded C word. However if you are traveling a fair distance, you should really think about what other shots you may need.

Your local healthcare provider will be able to advise you on what vaccinations you need for what countries. Also google is your friend!

Don’t risk Malaria or Yellow Fever. Get vaccinated!

4. Get Some Local Currency

It won’t be long before we live in a cashless society, but for now, even if you have payment systems all setup on your phone, it’s a good idea to get a small amount of local currency.

Particularly if you’re traveling to a developing nation.

Many local taxi’s, tuk-tuks, or cheap sim card providers will want cash, so don’t get caught out trying to find an ATM on arrival. Plan ahead and stash a little local cash in your purse or wallet.

5. Get Travel Insurance

Essential travel tip: Get insured!

No one ever expects the unexpected but it’s always great to have a safeguard just in case. Whether it’s to protect you should any of your belongings get stolen or if you have any medical emergencies abroad, the peace of mind having travel insurance is really priceless.

Getting insured won’t break the bank.

Recommended travel insurance companies include;

World Nomads

IM Global

Safety Wing

6. Arrange Car Insurance Excess

Hot travel tip! If you think you might be doing a lot of car hire, take out car excess insurance.

Car hire firms notoriously charge astronomical damage excess fees. But with car excess insurance you’ll only ever pay up to the amount of excess you’ve stipulated, and the car hire insurance company will pay the rest. We use reducemyexcess.co.uk.

7. Use Social Media for Free Travel Agent Advice!

These days, your friendly high street travel agencies are getting fewer and fewer but fear not! One of my top travel tips is to use your social network online for first-hand experiences and advice.

Try places like Facebook and Reddit to ask questions, get opinions and check out other travelers’ experiences for the ultimate travel experience! Also Pinterest & Instagram are Your Travel Planning Friends. I have an entire folder of ‘saved’ images from destinations I’ve seen on Instagram.

When thinking about and planning future trips, creating Pinterest boards and saved IG folders will be your inspiration for places to go and sights to see!

8. Take Your Original Passport, Passport Photos AND Copies

It’s always the question we ask ourselves as we are leaving for a trip “have I got my passport?”. For me, I ask myself at least 20 times before setting off, twice en-route and another five or six times at the airport!

Great stuff, but in terms of top travel tips, don’t forget the other important stuff! In addition to your actual passport, take; copies of your passport, passport size photos, travel insurance documents, and copies of any and all important documents!

Travel Booking Tips

How you book your travels, very much depends on your personality.

You might be a forward planner, wanting to plan out in detail your entire trip day by day, ( like my husband). Or you might be more of a fly by the seat of your pants person, preferring to just ‘head out’ and see where the wind takes you (like me!)

Either way, here are some top travel tips for booking your adventures.

9. Try Not to Plan Too Much

While it’s great to have a semblance of a travel plan, in my experience more often than not, things easily get off track.

Don’t let it stress you out, take it as it comes and enjoy. Some of the most interesting adventures I’ve had are unexpected and “off-plan”

10. Be An Early Bird When Booking Flights

There are two schools of thought here and you can get a good deal either way. The first is, to book flights early.

The chances are by booking early you’ll find the best prices on both short and long-haul flights. I usually check out these sites as a starting point:

• Skyscanner
• Google Flights
• Agoda
• Kayak
• Booking.com
• Expedia

11. Book Flights Last Minute for Some Great Deals

By the same token, you can also get some crazy deals by booking at the absolute last minute!

One of my top travel tips (even when you aren’t actively out on the road) is to register with travel sites for upcoming deals (you can tailor these to specific locations too!).

You will receive a ton of information about offers on flights, hotels, destinations, and events right to your personal inbox and may even find some inspiring destinations that were not previously on your radar.

Check out sites like;

• ​​Momondo
• Secret Flying
• The Flight Deal
• Fareness
• Next Vacay
• Wego
• Cheapoair

12. Remember Direct Flights Aren’t Always Best

If you’re looking for cheap flights and are trying to save money make sure you shop around.

Sometimes a schedule with a connecting flight can be much cheaper than direct (assuming you have a little extra time for the layover).

13. Book Refundable Accommodation

Personally I like to book just 1 or 2 nights initially. There have been too many times I’ve disliked the accommodation I’ve booked or the area, but by the time we’ve booked, paid and arrived, it’s too late.

My recommendation is to use an app like booking.com (my personal favorite) and pick only refundable rooms. Then check out the room and the area to see if you want to stay longer or move on. It’s the ultimate in flexible travel!

14. Sharing Sites Are A Game Changer

Sites like Couchsurfing.com and Tripping.com have literally changed the travel game.

If you are looking for a more intimate and boots-on-the-ground travel experience, these sites provide home-sharing and free hosts who can help you find everything you need with their local knowledge!

15. Best Booking Apps

There are so many travel apps right now that can make your next trip awesome! Whether you want to book cheap flights, a place to stay or local trips and experiences, there is most certainly an app!

Here are some of my favorite booking apps;

• App in the Air
• Rome 2 Rio
• Trip Advisor
• Booking.com
• Agoda
• Airbnb
• Klook
• Viator
• Flight Aware

16. House Sit Your Way Around the World

If you love pets and don’t mind the responsibility, house sitting could be for you.

Sign up to sites like trustedhousesitters.com and apply for house sits in your chosen destination at the times you’ll be there. In return for free accommodation you’ll look after the owners furry companions while their away.

17. For The Novice: Start With an Easy Foreign Country

If you are just starting your wanderlust adventure and haven’t had much travel experience you might want to consider somewhere that’s newbie-friendly.

For example, try to find somewhere with a common language, that caters to foreign visitors, and has a fairly easy route to your final destination. Once you have mastered this bit, you’ll have the confidence to be a bit more adventurous.

Travel Packing Tips

18. The Right Luggage is Critical

It’s super important to pick the most suitable luggage for your trip. A 2 week family vacation is very different from a 12 month backpacking trip which is also different from a 3 month staycation! Whatever you buy, you’ll want decent quality so it doesn’t fall apart when being thrown into the baggage hold!

For longer or multi-destination trips, if you can, only take a carry on bag as it will save you time in airports and make it easier to move around your destination.

If you do have to check-in luggage, pick something lightweight, ideally with an inbuilt combination lock and of course something that stands out for easy ID at the luggage belt!

19. Pack Light

Save luggage costs and time waiting at the carousel by packing light and taking only what you need!

Packing cubes help organise your clothes and save space like these ones on Amazon.

See my post on how to pack lightly here for more tips!

20. Be a Carry-On Connoisseur

If you can master the art of traveling with a carry on, your travel life will be so much easier.

Remember these rules:

1) Roll up your clothes (save space and clearly see everything in your luggage)

2) Put your passport, copy of your passport, and important documents in a separate zip pocket.

3) Pick comfort over style (remember you will be carrying the same bag all trip!)

21. Pack For All Seasons

The most challenging part of traveling is packing for a multitude of seasons.

If you’re heading off on a long trip, it might be that you’re starting in Asia and ending up in Iceland, who knows!

Packing for the sun is easy, a couple of pairs of shorts, a t-shirt, swimmers and a summer dress and bob’s your uncle. But cold weather means weight! Bulky jumpers, long trousers, socks, scarves, etc.

My best advice is to shop on route. Take maybe a cardigan or light jacket for when you first arrive in a colder climate, but most countries will have a bargain shopping store for you to pick up a pair of sweatpants, socks and gloves.

And if you’re going the other way, give back to the world and donate your cold weather gear to someone in need as you swap them for shorts and tees!

22. Take a Bag for Dirty Clothes & Shoes

Always take a spare bag to keep shoes & dirty clothes separate from the rest of your luggage. You won’t want smelly clothes or sweaty shoes impacting your clean clothes.

You can also douse a cotton pad with essential oils and pop it in your laundry bag to eliminate any nasty smells.

23. Separate Your Stuff

Try to compartmentalize all of your belongings.

This will make life so much easier especially if you are visiting multiple locations and won’t have time to properly unpack.

You can get cheap suitcase dividers or packing cubes to help keep everything in place whilst on your travel adventure!

24. My Recommended Packing List (Accessories)

Minimize Toiletries But Take Conditioner – Hotels always have shampoo or some form of 2-in-1. But rarely have a decent conditioner. Always take your own for soft silky hair! Hot Tip! I take spray in conditioner also, if I know I’m going to be swimming a lot!

Ultralight Microfibre Towel – Even if you plan to stay somewhere that has towels available for guests, it’s always handy to have a lightweight towel with you for day trips.

50+ Chapstick & Sunscreen – This is a biggie on any top travel tips list! For health, comfort and to avoid the lobster effect, wear sunscreen (even if it’s not scorching hot… the rays will get you!) Also my lips are always getting sunburnt! It’s such a sensitive area and incredibly painful. After a long search here’s the chapstick I buy, which keeps my lips from getting burned even in the hottest of climates.

Face Mask & Sleeping Masks – Whether you’re for or against the face mask, Asians have been wearing them for years to protect against low air quality. Since wearing a mask on trains and planes I haven’t picked up so much as a cold. Do yourself a favor, wear a mask when traveling. A sleeping mask for planes, goes without saying!

A Light Jacket/Cardigan & Sarong/Shawl – Whether you are going somewhere temperate or a more tropical climate… take a jacket. There is always air-con running in public places such as airports, hotel lobbies, and cars so better to be safe (and toasty!) Plus a sarong or shawl will come in handy when visiting culturally sensitive areas like temples etc and you need to cover those shoulders or knees!

Wear Trainers (Sneakers), Pack Flip Flops (Thongs) – It doesn’t matter if your activities include anything from mountaineering to chilling on the beach. To make it anywhere you will need to get in some steps! But trainers means extra weight, so wear those and pack your light beach shoes. Hot Tip! Remember to find a pair that are easy to get on and off for the pesky security controls when traveling through airports!

Tissues, Wipes & Hand Sanitizer – Never underestimate the power of wet wipes! Especially awesome if your final destination is somewhere a little more remote and has limited sanitary facilities.

Teabags & Travel Mug – I’m a typical Brit and love my English Breakfast Tea. Most places supply it now, but I like to take my own supply anyway, plus my good old reliable travel mug. So many hotels still provide silly little tea cups for tea or coffee, but I like a good sturdy mug of hotness! If you’re anything like me, take your own mug. You’ll thank me later!

Ear plugs – An awesome travel tip for (of course) helping you sleep during your flight, but these handy little gems are also great for any traveler even those of you not taking to the skies. Being in a new place throws up new sights, smells, and importantly, sounds. Having a set of earplugs will help you get a great night’s sleep in an unfamiliar place so you are rested and ready to tackle the day of adventuring ahead!

Take Your Own Water Bottle – Wherever you are traveling you will need to stay hydrated but buying bottled water can be both costly and bad for the environment. So, one of my top travel tips is to go green and save money by bringing along your own water bottle. In a foreign city or the airport, most places have drinking water fountains for you to fill up your own container.

A Flashlight Can Come on Handy – Most of us have a light on our phones these days, but a mini flashlight (ideally that can fit on your keyring), is super handy especially if you are traveling off the beaten path.

First aid kit – I couldn’t write a travel tips blog without this key item! I’m not saying bring a whole operating theater with you but a few simple items in a first aid kit could make your whole journey easier. Band-aids, painkillers, indigestion tablets, antihistamines and the all-important Imodium are essentials.

Jewelry bag for long necklaces – If you’re fed up trying to untangle long necklaces after fishing them out from the bottom of your jewelry bag, I found a fantastic solution just last year! A jewelry bag specifically for long necklaces. It’s awesome! Here’s the one I bought and highly recommend.

Laundry Detergent Packets – If you are taking a long trip but taking my “travel light” travel tips on board then your best friends are detergent packets! Small, lightweight and will have you feeling as fresh as a daisy throughout your trip. Not to mention, hotel laundry services can be super expensive and can take 48 hours if you hand them in at the end of the day. Hot Tip! Laundry services in Asia are super cheap, so this is less of an issue if you’re planning a trip around the Asian tropics.

Purse/wallet – of course, although be careful with a money belt. Once upon a time having a money belt was a great idea, but more recently they have proven to be a target on travelers’ backs. Thieves are great at spotting money belts on tourists (even if you feel like it’s hidden well) and will potentially be more unsafe than walking around with a shoulder bag or secure backpack that looks a little less conspicuous.

Passport/document holders – We’ve carried around the same passport and document holder for almost ten years! Don’t just fling your passports in your bag and start fishing around for visa docs etc at the airport. Get organized. Have all your passports, docs, extra passport photos for visas on arrival, vaccination certs, etc all in a document holder for easy reach at the airport check in/document check areas.

Padlocks – Even if your luggage has a built-in lock, you never know when you might need to secure personal items. Pick a padlock with a combination because keys tend to get lost easily!

25. My Recommended Packing List (Electronics)

Universal adapter – Unless you’re going only to one country and you know exactly the adapter you need, universal adapters are handy little items to throw in your bag.

Laptop – If you’re simply traveling for pleasure you may not need your laptop, however if you’re reading this as a digital nomad or long term traveler, my 12 inch macbook pro has been the best travel computer I’ve ever owned. Sure ipads are great, but if you’re working online and need a computer, as opposed to an oversized phone, at only 2lbs (less than a kilo) the little 12 inch is an ideal traveling companion!

AirPods – You gotta love Apple for creating noise canceling teeny weeny wireless headphones. Gone are the days of wires (which by the way can be spotted by flight attendants when you’re trying sneakily to continue watching your movie). Gone are the days of bulky over your head noise canceling headphones. Do yourself a favor and invest in the latest version of airpods. They’re worth their weight in gold on a long trip!

Phone – Had to include it, but goes without saying

Portable charger – Tablets, phones, and kindles can be fabulous while you are on your travels. But they are dead weight if you don’t have a power supply handy. Take a power bank with you. They are not so expensive these days and can be a lifesaver if you find your batteries in the red zone.

Headphone splitter – If you have airpods, a headphone splitter isn’t needed anymore as you can connect two pairs of airpods to one device so you and your spouse, child, friend etc, can watch the same thing. However, if not a headphone splitter is a great way to share a movie!

Charging cables – Don’t forget your charging cables. Phone, computer, portable charger, headphones etc. Hot Tip! Always check the plugs when you leave a hotel! Many a charging cable has been left behind.

USB Wall Charger – Your electronics aren’t much good if you can’t charge them! I use this 4 port USB wall charger. Cheap, reliable and with plugs that fit any country, it goes with me everywhere!

HDMI cable for TV’s – Many hotel TV’s these days have an HDMI port, meaning you can connect your computer to the main screen. Most TV abroad is horrible, so this is a great way to stream Netflix directly on the main TV!

Phone holder – Don’t you just hate it when you’re trying to watch a movie on a plane but you can’t stand your phone up! This little gadget is a crazy handy little tool. Watch movies, chat with friends, all hands free (I even use it when I’m cooking!).

Electronics holder for wires – This little bespoke bag is ideal for housing all your cables, chargers, headphone splitters, etc. Here’s the one I bought and recommend.

26. Halve What You Pack!

My sister & I trekked through Nepal, India & the Maldives for 3 weeks with just one 7kg bag, and that included clothes, toiletries and electronics, and I still came home with a t-shirt I didn’t wear.

I guarantee you pack too much. We all do! How many times have you come home from a trip with unworn clothes. If you’ve got 4 pairs of shorts take 2, 2 dresses, take 1, 4 t-shirts, take 2. Test yourself to see just how light you can pack.

27. Roll Up Roll Up!

Another one of the best travel tips that I use wherever I go is to roll up your clothes for optimum space-saving.

You also have the benefit of seeing all your stuff side by side instead of in a big pile which makes picking things out much easier.

28. Pick Somewhere Safe to Store Car Keys/House Keys

Avoid that dreaded, ‘wear did I put my keys’ moment when you get back from a trip. Pick a spot within your luggage that makes the perfect storage spot for your house and car keys. Just don’t forget where that is!

29. Document Your Belongings (Before You Go)

Although this is a bit tedious, it’s a great measure to take as a just in case precaution. Take a sec to photograph all the belongings you are packing including gadgets, clothes, bank cards and clothes. It will help in the unlikely event you need to make a claim for something stolen or lost via your travel insurance.

30. Back-Up Bank Cards Are a Must

However you have prepared your budget for your next adventure, it’s common sense to bring along a backup of funds! In my experience, an extra credit card can always give you a little security, and don’t forget to let your bank know if you are traveling abroad to avoid security blocks.

31. Bring Emergency Funds

There is nothing worse than an unexpected bill when you are on a trip. Even if you have great travel insurance sometimes it takes a while to process claims and you have to front some cash for any medical bills or lost/stolen items.

Be prepared and make sure you have a backup. Most banks will allow you to withdraw cash abroad even if you have lost your card using a pin number. Do some planning and make sure you don’t find yourself short!

32. Get A VPN

Depending where you travel, access to certain sites may be restricted or unavailable depending on local policies. In addition, there are a ton of open networks you could be using when on public wifi which can open up a can of worms in terms of risk to your personal information and data.

So it’s a great plan to install a VPN on your devices giving you privacy and the ability to remain anonymous. There are literally hundreds of services that can provide a VPN but the one I recommend and that I’ve used for years is ExpressVpn.

Airport & Flying Travel Tips

I must admit, I’m a bit of an airport junkie! There’s something about the sounds, the energy, the atmosphere that gets me super excited.

However, they can also be a huge source of frustration, as can flying.

Here are my top airport and flying travel tips for a smoother journey.

33. Check In Online

Where possible, check in online, particularly if you only have hand luggage. In many cases you can print your docs off and go straight to the departure gate!

34. Spot The Business Traveler

Business Travelers are awesome! Slick, prepared, and most of the time know exactly where they are going. If you spot one of these wonderful creatures in an airport: get in behind them. Checking in, going through security and passport control is much quicker behind a business traveler versus a family or tourists.

35. See Airports as a Travel Experience In Their Own Right!

So many airports now are like mini theme parks! Singapore, Doha, Tokyo, Dubai, are all amazing sights to behold. Get there early and walk around the entire airport exploring everything on offer. It’s a huge part of your travel experience!

36. Pack Healthy Snacks

Most food on airplanes is terrible! Be sure to pack some healthy snacks for your trip so you don’t feel heavy, tired and full of rubbish on your arrival.

37. Board Early

Particularly if you’re on a budget airline, it’s a great idea to board as early as possible so you can stow your bag exactly where you want to. There’s nothing worse than having to put your bags behind you, due to the bag holders being full and then having to wait for everyone to leave the plane to get your bags!

38. Take a Comfy Travel Pillow

Travel pillows are the bane of my life. I am yet to find a truly comfy pillow that’s small enough to pack, but big enough to make a difference. Let me know if you have any recommendations. In the meantime, keep searching, a comfy pillow on a long trip in coach, can make all the difference. Here’s one I’m going to be trying next!

39. Drink Lots of Water

Traveling dehydrates you. I don’t know why. Something to do with the pressure. But feeling dehydrated can leave you feeling lethargic and sleepy and can also give you a huge headache. Drink lots of water and get an aisle seat!

40. Minimize Alcohol

Although it’s tempting to order a holiday glass of wine or beer, alcohol will only dehydrate you further. Best bet is to avoid it until you have your toes in the sand!

41. Always Ask for an Upgrade

It can never hurt to ask for more leg room, a front row seat, an emergency seat or even a bump up to business or first if they’re not busy. On many occasions I’ve been given extra leg room at no further charge. And once, my daughter and I got bumped up to first! (I can’t remember why).

42. Sleep in the Time Zone of Your Destination

The simplest way to avoid jet lag is to sleep in the time zone of the place you’re visiting. This can be tough, especially if you’re on a night flight and you’re desperate to sleep. But download a couple of movies before you leave or take a good book and force yourself to stay awake until it’s the appropriate shut eye time. Then utilize that sleeping mask!

43. Take a Chill Pill

My husband and I are entirely different travelers. I meander through the airport taking in all the sights and sounds while he strides ahead, always in a rush. As you can imagine this makes for interesting discussions! My advice…take a chill pill. The plane won’t leave without you (that’s not strictly true), but you get my meaning. Enjoy the experience, have fun and don’t panic! It’ll all work out ok.

Safety Travel Tips

44. Lock your bags

Most travel bags have an inbuilt combination lock, but if not make sure to lock your bag with a separate combination padlock. It’s highly unlikely anything will happen, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!

45. Research Crime Rates

Unfortunately this is a necessary evil. If you know your dream destination has areas of high crime it’s always best to check out where to avoid! You don’t really want to find yourself driving or walking into an area you shouldn’t be in. For this google is your friend as are the local hotel staff.

46. Hide your valuables

A good friend of mine had her diamond necklace ripped off her neck while walking down a street in Johannesburg. It goes without saying, she shouldn’t have been wearing a diamond necklace in a place with such high crime rates. Be sensible! Research where you’re going and put your valuables away.

47. Take Essentials Only When Out For The Day

It’s often tempting to take your most valuable items on your person when you leave for a day trip but it’s where most travelers lose their most important items. Figure out roughly how much cash you need, take a backup card just in case and only take electronic devices you really need. For everything else either leave it in your room safe or, if that’s not available, most hostels and hotels will accept valuables to keep in their back-office safe for guests.

48. Stay In Touch (When You Can)

Whether you are traveling alone or with a partner(s) it’s really important to let friends and family know your plans. If you are super organized, send a couple of people your rough itinerary, so they know when you should be contactable or when you may be unable to reach them. You should also check in on facetime or a call when it’s convenient, just to let people know of any changes to your schedule and also what an amazing time you are having!

50. Be Culturally Aware

I’m as self righteous as the next person about being able to wear what we want, where we want, but different cultures have different written and unwritten rules and attitudes. It’s simply common sense not to walk around a primarily strict muslim culture with a tiny tee and up your bum shorts! Just like it’s forbidden to go topless here in Thailand. Just be respectful and culturally aware and you won’t go far wrong.

51. Be Friendly But Aware

No matter where you go, as a traveler you will get approached by locals. Some will simply want a photo with you or to have a chat, most will want to sell you something. Always be friendly, but also be on your guard. You don’t want to suddenly realize you signed up to a timeshare or bought a silk scarf for money you can’t afford!

52. Get Your Hotel Address Written On The Hotel Card in Local Language

When you arrive at your hotel, get the concierge to write the address on the back in local language. Super helpful when grabbing a cab or bus back to the hotel.

53. Select ATMs Carefully

There are a couple of issues to consider when choosing an ATM machine abroad. Firstly Security: Make sure you find an ATM in a well-lit place with no cameras or loose frontage. If anything about the setup looks off to you, trust your gut and find somewhere else. Usually, ATMs located in or outside of a bank are safest.

Secondly: Charges! Here in Asia, I have come across anything from no charges up to $30 per transaction. It’s often similar all over the world with private ATM machines that are 100% focused on the tourist trade. Make sure you double-check what the charges are before you hit the green button!

54. Get A Heads Up On Healthcare

None of us really like to think about getting sick or injured when on our dream trip, but as a precaution, you should try to get an understanding of available healthcare facilities and the best spots for travelers. Medical care varies from country to country so do a little research beforehand just in case you need it. Although hopefully, you won’t!

55. Be Vigilant

It goes without saying that safety is a number one priority when traveling and the easiest way to stay out of danger is simple, just be vigilant. I am not talking about a James Bond-level of reconnaissance, just be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.

Chances are, if you feel like something isn’t quite right, you are probably right. In this situation, head to a well-populated, well-lit area until you feel safe to continue.

A couple of other things to consider when thinking about safe travel are: Avoid wearing any super expensive jewelry, drink responsibly (& and stay in control) and always know the local numbers for emergency services.

Fun Travel Tips; Make Your Travel Experience the Best Ever!

56. Learn A Little of the Lingo

Learning a local language is a little daunting and of course, no one expects perfection! However, if you get a chance, learn basic phrases in the local language and you will be amazed at just how far it can take you. Not only will you make everyday interactions more fun, but most locals will really appreciate your effort and be willing to offer advice and help if needed.

If you are planning to wander off the beaten path, this is even more essential as in some more remote areas, there could be limited spoken English. You can also consider downloading a language-learning app where you can learn Spanish, Thai, French, or whatever language you like. Trust me, if you know how to ask where the bathroom is, you will not regret making the effort to pick up some of the local lingo!

Google translate is your friend! It’s also had some serious upgrades in the last few years making it an absolute god send!

57. Read Up on Local History

This is especially true if you are going on a cultural quest! It’s such a shame to visit historic landmarks and not have a bit of background on the attraction.

On all my trips I like to learn about their history and culture. Not only does it lead to a much richer experience, it broadens your mind and gives you an understanding of different histories, struggles, values and beliefs.

For example, visiting Cambodia and learning all about their recent tragedy (only a generation ago), Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge, has had such a deeply lasting effect on me and has shaped the way I view the world.

Foreign countries often have some amazing cultural history so doing a bit of research is definitely one of my top travel tips!

58. Take LOTS of Pictures

Of all my essential travel tips, this is definitely up there!

You will make some wonderful memories on your travels so it’s a great idea to make sure you have incredible photos to relive your adventures. You could even take up a “travel hobby” and learn a little about photography before your trip.

Invest in a decent camera (with an extra camera battery!) or learn how to use your phone camera properly and have some fun taking epic shots of your travels!

59. Seek Out Info From Hotel or Hostel Staff

Most hotels have local if not seasonal staff who have great knowledge about tourist attractions, free walking tours, and the local tourism office. When you are in a foreign country, it’s always a good idea to check in with the staff to make sure you have a great trip with no hiccups along the way.

60. At Least Once, Fly Solo

Solo travel can be a bit daunting, but if you get the chance, go for it! Sometimes the thrill of going on an adventure without travel partners is a real eye-opening experience (plus you can eat, sleep and explore on your own schedule).

Safety travel tip : if you do take the leap and travel solo, ALWAYS let your family or friends know your schedule and try to touch base as often as convenient.

61. Eat Out But Also Cook!

In these wonderful days of Airbnb, which offers you a real apartment with kitchen facilities, your vacation just got way more inclusive.

Wherever you are in the world, if you get the chance, taste the local cuisine when eating out but another one of my favorite travel tips is to get your chef hat on! It’s not just about the cooking… Explore local food markets, shop in local grocery stores and get a real feel for the culture and the wonderful cuisine that goes with it!

It’s also a great chance if you bump into any other travelers or even friendly locals to get together and really get the full experience of traveling.

62. Be Respectful Of Other Cultures

This is one of the most important travel tips for those planning international travel.

The diversity of cultures in this big wide world of ours is amazing so make sure wherever you are going, you check out any local customs that are important. For example here in Thailand, we greet each other using a Wai (like a prayer with our hands) and must cover our shoulders in places of worship and government offices. Take a minute to understand the culture you are visiting and show respect for the local customs.

63. Street Food is Fabulous

Street food doesn’t always mean eating insects and avoiding stomach problems!

In most foreign countries, local street food is amazing and will definitely save money! The key is to look for the places where locals are dining. If it’s good enough for the residents it will be a great new experience for you to try on your travels.

64. Learn The Art Of Negotiation

If you are looking forward to shopping in local markets and searching for the best souvenirs you really need to get your bartering skills sorted! In most destinations, especially those off the beaten track, there is an expectation that you will haggle for the best price (which means things are usually marked up).

Try to find a good balance between negotiating the best price and causing any offense. Everyone has their limit so learn to recognize when someone really is offering the cheapest they can. You can even go online before your trip and shout out to your social network for advice on pricing if they have visited the same place!

65. Try Not To Think “Stranger Danger!”

Although we should all be observant when visiting new places, try not to be fearful of meeting new people. When you are in a public place, especially during the day, have a chat with some of the locals who will likely be interested in you too!

This will give you a much more rounded cultural experience and is a great way to meet new buddies.

66. The Tourist Office: Clue Is In The Title!

Wherever you find yourself in the world, always try to drop into the local tourism office. The staff are there to help you find the right activity and give advice based on your interests, abilities, and general requirements.

In addition, you will probably find they have access to some great deals and price reductions for famous attractions.

67. There Is No Shame In Finding The Familiar

Even for the most seasoned traveler, being away from home can sometimes feel a little lonely.

Don’t worry about looking for a brand that you know and like that has international locations. For example, Starbucks has a really consistent product and usually English-speaking staff. It’s just a coffee and a chance to take a breath from all the exploring! (Bonus: They usually have free Wifi too!)

68. Get Involved

Whether you are wandering the streets of a European City, trekking in the jungle or even enjoying a lazy beach holiday, there will always be something new to try.

If you get a chance to eat with locals, dance with a street parade or join a group of beach volleyballers the chances are most people will be just as open-minded and keen to see you have a blast.

Go wild and have some fun!

69. Network

One of the joys of travel is meeting a bunch of amazing people with whom you wouldn’t usually get the opportunity to speak. Whether it is other travelers or local friends, connect on social media, exchange email info and boost your network.

You never know when you may cross paths again. I personally have made some great friends on my many years of travel and those lasting relationships are still going strong to this day!

70. Patience Is A Virtue

On any trip, always expect some kind of delay. Whether at the airport, in a busy restaurant or waiting for transport at your destination. Traveling takes time! With that in mind, take a breath and try to be patient. Different cultures move at different paces.

For example, if you are visiting a vibrant city like New York, you will find a much livelier and rushed vibe than if you are visiting a village in Cambodia! So be patient!

71. Try Some Volunteering

Lots of places offer fantastic volunteering options with local animal shelters, orphanages or even beach clean ups. These are an awesome way to get to know other people and also feel great about yourself.

You can find some cool volunteering opportunities with VolunteerWorld who have a massive network of programs internationally!

72. Stay Active

One of the best things about travel is all the opportunities to be active (and it not be a chore!)

If you are going to a big city, walking is an awesome way to see the sights as well as burning calories. If you are heading to a tropical paradise there is nothing better than a swim in the ocean.

Even small decisions like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or doing an hour of yoga whilst relaxing on the beach, staying active will keep you energized and healthy for your entire trip!

73. Be Eco Friendly

These days we are all a little more environmentally conscious and can definitely contribute even whilst traveling. This could mean anything from finding more local experiences to reduce your carbon footprint, or choosing to book your hotel on an eco friendly booking site like bookdifferent.com

74. Free Walking Tours

Wherever you can, take a walking tour! Many of them are free and it’s a fantastic way to explore a new city. Also download the app GPSmyCity – great for downloading self guided walking tours and getting some info about the local area.

75. Wake Up Early

When heading out for the day on tours or sight seeing, wake up early to avoid the crowds and sometimes get the most amazing lighting for your burgeoning photographic career!

76. Get a Tour Guide

There are some places only a tour guide will do. You’re not only supporting the local economy, but also learning a lot more about the country and area you are in that you might find out on your own.

They’ll also know where the best places to eat are, the best views, the best sights, etc.

77. Rent a Car/Moped

A car or moped is an easy way to explore your surrounding areas and finds places a bit further afield.

78. Go Off the Beaten Track

The Atlas Obscura website is an amazing resource to find the weird and wonderful wherever you are in the world.

79. Slow Down!

Remember to enjoy your travel by taking a minute to be in the moment!

It’s great that we can capture so many memories on our devices now, but every so often take a minute to watch a sunset, or see a cityscape without looking through a screen!

Money Saving Budget Travel Tips

80. Eat Locally

If you want to save money, local food is the way to go! It’s so much cheaper than touristy restaurants and cafes.

I’m not saying you will like everything but it will definitely give you some insight into the local culture as well as some great stories to tell upon your return. During my many trips around the world, eating local food has not only helped me to save money but has given me some favorite dishes I just couldn’t live without now!

81. Go to Local Markets

Local markets are so much fun. You can pick up some amazing bargains to take home as presents for your friends and family and even the latest designer bag for next to nothing for you!

82. Book Rooms With Breakfast

Where possible book a room inclusive of breakfast. The chances are fruit will be on offer, so you can have tea, toast and eggs for breakfast and slip a banana or two in your bag for later!

83. Never Use Airport Exchanges

It’s really tempting when you arrive somewhere after a long flight to just stop to change currency at the airport when you land. Dont!

These exchanges are notoriously bad for their rate and are located conveniently to catch you when you are tired and maybe feeling a little lazy. Try to buy currency beforehand or alternatively find a local exchange where the rate will be fair.

84. Don’t Give Up on Hostels

Even if you like your home comforts, you really don’t need to be spending a fortune on fancy brand hotels to make your trip memorable. Hostels are no longer the bunk bed, dirty shared bathroom, and sometimes dangerous nightmare they once were!

Nowadays there are tons of amazing boutique hostels that will help save money whilst giving you a cool place to lay your head! Although now many mainstream platforms are hot hostel destinations, you can also find some great information at HostelWorld which is the oracle of all things hostel!

85. Choose The Fancy Restaurants at Midday

If you come across a high end restaurant that is maybe a little over your budget but you are dying to try, go at lunchtime. More often than not they have a “lunchtime special” menu that is slightly cheaper but contains much of the a la carte options.

Plus make sure to search Groupon or lookout for local apps for deals in your local area. In the UK for example we just downloaded tastecard.co.uk which offers hundreds of two for one or discount deals on dining, days out, cinemas etc.

86. Points Are There To Use!

Ahh, the beauty of points! I have used points on so many of my adventures I am sure there is no better way to save money as a frequent traveller!

Whether it’s Airmiles or even points from using your credit cards, make sure you know what you have and check out deals regularly. You may even get a few free flights if you stay on top of the status of your points! Most awards programs have an email sign up option so you will get information about deals on where you can use points straight to your inbox.

87. Don’t Be Stingy (But Frugal is OK)

It’s always good to be thrifty, but make sure you don’t get too obsessed and ensure you have made the right budget for your own style of travel. When exploring all around the world you will find if you are constantly penny-pinching and worrying about money, you may miss a lot of the awesome experiences available out there.

88. Whenever You Can: Pre Book!

When it comes to flights, hotel bookings, walking tours, tourist attractions, and events, pre-booking is the smart way to plan. More often than not, you will find it more convenient and better value for money than paying on the spot once you arrive. These days there are literally hundreds of online sources for pre-booking. So get googling and enjoy!

89. Use XE App for Exchange Rates

Download the XE exchange rate app to see instantly how much things cost on your home currency.

90. Use Credit Cards/Bank Accounts That Save Money

Overseas banking/withdrawal fees and exchange rate differences can stack up pretty quickly if you’re not careful. Thankfully these days there are lots of cards and online bank accounts that offer overseas cash and credit fee free and exchange at an extremely fair rate.

Here’s some of the best;

• Wise – My No 1 Choice. Makes exchanging currencies a breeze at real exchange rates, plus every month you receive cashback on purchases.
• Revolut – Offers all sorts of extra travel perks, including lounge access on certain packages
• Monzo – Fee free overseas banking & money transfers
• Barclaycard Rewards – No fees for purchases or cash withdrawals
• Halifax Clarity – (what I use) no fees for purchases or cash withdrawals, but they do get a bit antsy when you use your card abroad. We have had many rejected transactions followed up by a phone call from the fraud department. It’s a pain, but on the other hand their security is rock solid!
• Schwab Bank Debit Card – automatically reimburses you for all ATM fees worldwide
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card – no transaction fees, redeemable points on travel and dining, access to airport lounges. The card costs $550, but you get $300 in travel credits. Happy days!

91. Say No To Local Taxis (Unless Absolutely Necessary)

In many foreign cities the most expensive way to get around is by taxi (especially of they turn the meter off!). Nowadays with apps like Uber, Indrive or Grab, you can get around with ease and usually save some cash. Alternatively, you can explore more using local metro and train services as well as more unconventional bicycle and moped taxis.

You will always find a friendly taxi driver in a tuk-tuk! This always makes me feel more immersed in the local culture and is a great way to chat to local people.

92. Research Free Tours and Attractions

Most countries around the world that have any kind of tourist attraction offer some sort of free tours and entry passes. All you need is to get on google before you travel and check out some of the local attractions, most tourism offices have a “free section”.

Another great resource is GuruWalk where you can pre-book free tours (if you really like the tour you can donate money to your guide at the end!)

93. Google Maps: Use Offline to Save On Data

If your destination country has unreliable cell phone service or you simply don’t want to drain your data, this is a brilliant function for traveling around the world seamlessly.

94. Find Free Wifi

So you may have a great internet data plan or even a local sim card on your journey, but you can’t beat free! There are always tons of great places to find free wifi including Airports, Local Businesses, Hotels, and Free Hotspots.

Alternatively, you can download an app such as WeFi which shows you all of the free wifi locations in your area.

Business Travel Tips

95. Start a Lifestyle Business

A lifestyle business is simply an online location independent business you can run from anywhere in the world.

Examples include, blogging, freelancing, becoming an influencer, e-commerce, selling on Amazon, affiliate marketing & loads more.

You can read my post on how we built and sold a 7 figure Amazon FBA business while traveling around the world.

96. Become a Digital Nomad

A digital nomad is what it says in the tin. Someone who travels the world generating an income digitally as they do so!

Here’s my top tips for becoming a digital nomad.

97. Start Freelancing

Without doubt the fastest route to working your own hours and generating an income online is freelancing.

Freelancing is basically using your skill sets to work for other people, but completely remotely. You also get to pick and choose the jobs you bid for, meaning you only do the jobs you want to do and are suited for.

98. Start a Travel Blog

If you’re going to be traveling extensively, it makes sense to start a travel blog! Especially if you love to share your experiences, document everything with photos or videos & help out other travelers looking for inspiration.

Here’s my step by step guide for starting your own travel blog today!

99. Invest in Photography/Videography Training

An image says 1000 words! An amazing photograph can capture a mood or experience perfectly, plus it’s fun! If you enjoy snapping away on your phone, enhance your skills & get some photography training.

I recommend Emil Parkarklis iPhone photography school.

It goes without saying that video is huge now. And with all the fab video apps on offer, it’s easier than ever to make stunning travel videos of your trips.

Follow me on TikTok for some inspiration!

100. Become a Travel Influencer

Whether you write, snap or video your experiences, travel is a huge niche.

Every experience you have is unique to you and can inspire or inform fellow travelers.

Becoming a travel influencer is both a fun & rewarding career move. Simply pick your favourite social platform & start posting!

101. Last But Not Least – Travel Often!

There is so much to see all over this wonderful planet of ours so whenever you can, go and explore!

Whether it’s a beach, a city, mountains, or ancient ruins, go see the world and enjoy as often as you possibly can!

Travel Tips Summary

So there you have it! 101 Top Travel Tips which I hope have inspired your wanderlust!

Travelling is one of my absolute passions and I have learned a lot of do’s and don’ts while on my travels. But my biggest takeaway has to be to relax, enjoy the moment and see as much of each new country as you possibly can!

There are a lot of things to remember when traveling and your own list of “to do’s” will depend entirely on your choice of destination.

Hopefully these helpful tips will get you started on your next adventure!

Good luck & Bon Voyage!

The post 101 Travel Tips To Save You Time & Money! appeared first on The Working Traveller.

Quite simply it’s designing your life choosing to live exactly how you want to.

Right now, as I write this post, I’m a Brit living in Phuket, Thailand as I have done for a few years now. When my daughter finishes school in May, as a family, we’ll head off around the world again to explore new countries, new cultures, and live life to the full.

I work on my laptop, and choose travel as my lifestyle.

The operative word being ‘choose’.

That is Lifestyle Design.

What is Lifestyle Design?

Lifestyle design is about choice.

It’s about choosing with purpose & intention the kind of life you want to live, including what you do, where you do it, who you do it with, and making it happen.

How to Design Your Life – TL;DR

Before I get into the nitty-gritty of dispelling myths surrounding lifestyle design, giving you the reasons to design your life, and walking through the critical steps for designing your own path, let me give you the quick and dirty version.

1. Know what you want. Create a compelling vision for your future. It’s imperative you’ve envisioned the kind of lifestyle you want to live. You can’t possibly take action towards your dream life if you don’t know what it is! So, start with the end in mind.
2. Create a lifestyle design budget. Nine times out of ten, it costs much less than you think to live your ideal life. So make a budget and get clear on what you need every month to live the life of your dreams.
3. Make a plan. What do you need to learn/do to make it happen? Start a side hustle? Build a lifestyle business? Renegotiate terms with your boss? Create a plan of what needs to happen to make your dreams a reality.
4. Have the difficult conversations. Perhaps you’re going to be leaving your family for a while. Maybe you and your spouse are going in opposite directions. You might be saying goodbye to your job. Who do you need to consider in your journey, and what decisions do you need to make?
5. Make It Happen! Nothing happens without action, so take it and go for your dreams.

Let’s get into the details now and start by dispelling some myths.

Lifestyle Design Myths

Myth 1 – You Have to Travel the World

Though many lifestyle designers love to travel and, I highly recommend it, travelling the world is not a prerequisite for lifestyle design.

The point of lifestyle design is that you’re designing the life you want to live, not how you see others on Instagram or TikTok living their life.

If you love where you live, have a big group of friends and a great community, and simply want to design into your life more time freedom, or more love for what you do, so be it.

That’s your ideal life, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Myth 2 – You Have to Start Your Own Business

If you follow my brand, chances are you want to start your own business, as that’s what I recommend to fund your travels, give you purpose, and create a saleable asset.

However, as with travel starting your own business is not a prerequisite for lifestyle design.

If you love your job, thoroughly enjoy going to work every day, and can’t see yourself doing anything else, then that is your concept of lifestyle design.

Of course, the point of starting your own lifestyle business is that you can work your own hours, be location independent and become a master of your time & place.

However, in this day and age post-pandemic, it’s far more likely that you may have a job that offers these options also.

The critical thing to remember is that lifestyle design is all about designing the life of your dreams.

Myth 3 – You Have to Become a Millionaire

Not only is this a complete myth, but lifestyle design is the antithesis of working hard to become a millionaire.

The whole point of designing the life of your dreams is about chasing experiences and living life to the full now, not working to the bone to make millions you don’t get to spend until you’re too old to enjoy it.

Whether you choose to start a lifestyle business, travel the world, or work from your kitchen table. The chances are to live the life of your dreams you’re going to need much less than you think you need.

When we first came to Phuket, we were financially free at just $3000 a month.

Even now, we don’t need much more to experience ultimate financial freedom, travel the world, and write blog posts at the beach.

Myth 4 – You Have to Buck the System

When Tim Ferriss first wrote the ‘Four Hour Work Week‘ in 2007, the idea of running an online business and gallivanting around the world seemed to be something only truly progressive thinkers would do.

These days it’s far more common to run a small business entirely online and be able to do it from anywhere in the world.

Instagram influencers, travel bloggers, global online business owners are no longer ‘bucking the system’. Instead, they are making the system work for them.

And you can too.

Why Focus on Lifestyle Design?

So why design your life?

Why not just go to school, get good grades, get a degree, get a good job, meet the partner of your dreams, have kids, buy a house, car, pets, etc., and let the chips fall as they lay?

As long as you’re happy, that’s all good, right?

Well, yes and no.

Apart from the obvious, such as, you’re likely paying too much tax to corrupt governments who rarely spend tax dollars wisely, (I’ll save my political opinions for drunken evenings with friends), here are 5 reasons you should be designing your life;

1. You Only Have One Life

As I’m sure you’re more than aware, you only have one shot at life on this planet. As Steve Jobs says, ‘why spend it living someone else’s life‘.

Designing your life ensures that you’re living with intention and that the choices you make every day are yours and yours alone.

It means doing what you want to do, when you want to do it, and from where you want to do it.

If you live for 80 years, that’s only 4000 weeks. When you put it like that, our whole life is a lot shorter than we think, so we need to be grabbing the juice out of every single day.

2. Freedom of Choice

The ‘Four Hour Work Week’ inspired me to change my life and start travelling the world, as I’m sure it did for thousands of other solopreneurs and digital nomads.

In a section that struck home with me, Tim muses about the possibility that;

‘The 80-hour-per-week, $500,000-per-year investment banker is less ‘powerful’ than the employed NR (what he calls new rich or in my terms solopreneur) who works ¼ the hours for $40,000, but has complete freedom of when, where, and how to live.’

The fact is that when you compare lifestyles, the solopreneur earning only $40k/year may actually have a far better life than the financially wealthy investment banker.

And that’s because real wealth (or power, as Tim puts it) is in the ability to choose.

Ultimate freedom comes from being able to make the life choices you want to make.

Whether you want to work in a 9 – 5 job or travel the world, wealth, freedom & happiness is more about choice than money. (Although money certainly aids choice!)

3. Opportunity

It’s easier than ever to create an online lifestyle business you can run from anywhere in the world.

Do you love to bake? These days you can spend your days baking, making videos about it, building an audience and making money from your passion.

Do you love to make jewellery? Do you love health and fitness? Do you enjoy talking about sports with your friends? Are you obsessed with yoga? Do you wish someone had given you the parenting advice you’d now love to give others?

It doesn’t matter what your passions are these days; you can make money from them online, meaning you can talk about, create content around, make videos about and live your passions every single day when you want to and from where you want to.

Case in point I am (writing) speaking this blog post while walking back and forth in the Andaman ocean in Phuket, Thailand, and I have to say, avoiding a jellyfish that just got quite close to my leg.

4. Security

If the pandemic has shown us anything, it’s how insecure jobs are.

It’s time to take control of your financial destiny.

Once you know how much your ideal lifestyle costs, you can purposely set out to ensure that you can generate that monthly income with the ultimate flexibility. You are now in control of your financial destiny rather than leaving it in the hands of someone else.

Whether you need to add side hustles, start a lifestyle business, or invest fully into becoming an entrepreneur.

The beauty of lifestyle design means it’s entirely up to you. You choose what you do.

5. Time

Time is our most precious asset.

The one thing that we can never get back is time.

That is why you need to be making the most of every minute of every day.

For example, I got up at 4 am this morning to complete two posts that I wanted to publish on Medium before coming to the beach to relax and record this post.

When we leave at 12, that will be the end of my working day. I will spend the rest of the day with my husband & daughter.

That is the ultimate in mastering your time and having complete freedom.

That is lifestyle design.

Why Lifestyle Design is Easier Now Than Ever

Social Media

Due to the transparent social media led global world we now live in, designing an exciting lifestyle is much easier than it was a generation ago.

If travel is your thing, it’s not unusual to throw on a backpack and head off around the world, plus there are a million videos, blog posts and podcasts telling us where to go and how to be safe when we get there.

Countries that were entirely insular years ago now expect and welcome tourists, with better facilities, more English speakers, and great WiFi!

Even exploring our own countries or moving to a new town is made easier by the plethora of online information, plus the connectivity we now have no matter where we are in the world.

Staying connected to our family & friends while halfway across the world or country makes travel or migration less daunting, and we’re more likely to embark on the adventure.

Technology

The changes I have witnessed in just the last 13 years building online businesses are phenomenal! We have made some amazing friends like other Amazon FBA sellers and travel bloggers we’ve met along the journey.

With Instagram, TikTok & publishing sites like Medium, it’s far easier these days to start an online lifestyle business with no money, no technical knowledge, and just an iPhone.

The advances in the blogging world, video world, social media world and ecommerce world have been such that these days, literally anyone (and I mean anyone) with an idea and a dream could start generating a healthy monthly income online today.

Remote Working

The upside of the pandemic has been the rapid onset of remote working. While I realise it also has its setbacks, like isolation and loneliness, as someone who’s been working remotely for over 13 years, there are routes around this, such as groups and meetups.

I’ll save those details for another post, but many more people have now developed the skills to work remotely.

For example, how to conduct Zoom or google meets. How to use online chat and organisational platforms like Slack. How to prioritise their time. How to strike a balance between home life and work life and crucially why it’s imperative to get up and get dressed and not work in your PJ’s all day! (Although I’ve been there and done that!)

More importantly, companies have discovered the benefits of employees working from home, both in costs and productivity.

If you love your job but would enjoy more location independence, there’s every possibility over the coming years, if you’re now working from home more often, that you could take your job on the road with you!

At the very least, depending on the kind of work you do, work your own hours at the times of day or night that suit you, giving you the freedom to pursue other hobbies and interests.

It’s an exciting world right now with a plethora of new opportunities!

So, by now you’re hopefully enthused about the idea of lifestyle design.

Let’s start your new profession as a lifestyle designer and walk you through designing your life.

5 Steps to Designing The Life Of Your Dreams

1. Know What You Want!

Start with knowing the kind of life you want to live.

What are your priorities?

• Do you want to travel?
• Do you want to work from home?
• Who do you want to spend more time with?
• What do you want to spend more time doing?
• Do you want more free time to do the things you love to do?

Starting with the end in mind is always an excellent strategy as it gives you the vision to work towards.

How can you know which direction to go in if you have no idea where you’re going?

Stop ambling through life and live with purpose. Decide what your ideal life looks like. Where you live, who you’re with, what you do, how you spend your time.

Get granular and create a vision board on your phone or Pinterest account, or write a letter to yourself, one year, five years, ten years from now, describing the amazing life you’re living in detail!

The more emotionally invested you are in your future, the more likely you’ll take steps to get there.

2. How Much Do You Need to Live the Life of Your Dreams?

I love this one!

So many people believe they have to become millionaires to be financially and physically free. Not so!

In most cases, you need far less than you think you do.

Do a cost exercise to discover precisely how much you’ll need every month to live the life of your dreams.

​​Create your own table similar to the one below with the categories relevant to your lifestyle vision, and start calculating your freedom budget!

Hot Tip!

Talk to people currently living the lifestyle you’d like to emulate and get some numbers from them.

For example;

• How much does it actually cost to house sit my way across Mexico?
• How much does it actually cost to move and live in Thailand?
• How much does it actually cost to rent an apartment in (insert ideal city)?
• How much does it actually cost to rent a boat and sail around (insert dream location) for 6 months of the year?
• How much does it actually cost to (insert your dream lifestyle here)?

Once you know your number, you’re so much clearer about what you’re working towards.

This exercise is a game-changer. It takes your dreams out of the clouds and makes them a reality.

Do this, and you’re halfway there!

3. What Do You Need to Learn/Do?

Now you know your monthly lifestyle design budget, what do you need to do to get there?

Do you need to create a lifestyle business? Do you need to add a side hustle? Do you need to renegotiate your contract?

What skills do you need that you may not currently have and what’s your plan to get them?

It’s time to take action and make a plan.

4. Who Do You Need to Consider?

Is your ideal life to travel the world but you’re worried about leaving family behind?

Perhaps you have school-age children and are unsure about schooling.

Do you need to chat with your boss about renegotiating your contract to suit you better?

Maybe you and your spouse have different ideas of what an ideal life looks like. Or perhaps the goal is to move closer to and spend time with the ones you love.

It’s time to sit down, have difficult discussions if necessary and make some decisions.

To live the life you dream about, there may be some compromises and agreements along the way. But the critical point is that you’re taking the reins and being responsible for your own choices.

NB: If I had my time again, I would world school my daughter; you can read more about that here.

5. Make It Happen

If I’ve said this once over the last 13 years, I’ve said it a thousand times. The only difference between people who are living their dreams and those who aren’t is that those who are, are.

In other words, they’re out there doing it, making it happen.

Nothing can be achieved from just dreaming, thinking and talking. You have to do!

Know what you want, how much money you need on a monthly basis to achieve it, what you need to do to get there and make it happen!

You can!

Lifestyle Design – Summary

We should all be lifestyle designers, no matter what we do or where we do it.

Remember the John Lennon quote, ‘Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other plans’? You need to become a master of your destiny. A captain of your own ship. Otherwise, you’ll be living a life planned out for you by others.

Make today the defining moment in your life when you chuck out the status quo, choose to move out of your comfort zone and start designing your life.

Imagine how you’ll feel if you completely own your time? How much extra energy will you have living your passion every day?

By choosing to become your own lifestyle designer today, in just a few months, you could be so much closer to living the life of your dreams.

Get started today and give yourself the opportunity to make better choices because you have more money, more time and more passion for what you’re doing than ever before!

Good luck!

The post What is Lifestyle Design and How to Live the Life of Your Dreams appeared first on The Working Traveller.