Resources.
Over the past eight years that I have been on and off traveling (mostly on), I’ve used a ton of different travel resources. I’ve gone through a few backpacks, torn up and used plenty of clothing, worn out almost a dozen pairs of sandals, and used hundreds of different companies to book flights, accommodation, and tours. Below are some of the companies, gear, and travel items I use or have used on a regular basis. These are all things that I end up mentioning to everyone when I talk about my travels.
Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Cheers!
Luggage & Gear
Osprey Exos
The Osprey Exos 38 lasted me more than 8 years and 30 countries. It was the perfect size and comfort for a long term backpacking trip.
Evrgrn Kickback
I've had this for 5 years now and it looks the same as the day I bought it. It also has just the right amount of pockets.
Carabiner
You never know when you'll need to hang something from your backpack.
Clothesline
It beats having to pay four dollars per dry in most western countries.
Doorstop
When a room doesn't have a lock, this is the best safety alternative. I always try to travel with a doorstop.
Hammock
For lounging at the beach. Also, there have been a few hostels I've been that will let you throw up your hammock and stay for a discounted price.
Waterbottle
It's not fun searching for a water fountain in 40 degree heat (Celsius).
Coffee Mug
I really do enjoy a cup of coffee.
Notebook
For writing, drawing, planning my trip. I always bring a notebook with me.
Lock
It beats renting a lock for a locker at most hostels. Plus it keeps me safe at mind.
Pretravel Stores
REI
They have pretty much anything you could think of for your trip. They also have an amazing loyalty card program.
Half Price Books
It's a large chain second hand bookstore.
Clothing
Sarong
I have a full article on why you should always bring a sarong on your travels.
Rainbow Sandals
I normally go through a pair of sandals every six to twelve months. These lasted me four years, and if it weren't for an unfortunate kayaking accident in Laos they would have lasted longer.
Sperry Top-Sider
These are ridiculously comfortable. Also there is no need for socks, and they are slip on.
Lightweight Down Jacket
These take almost no room in a backpack and handle the coldest countries.
Happy Socks
The only socks I ever buy. They are funky and unique and are always a conversation starter.
Electronics
Adaptor
An essential for anyone going on a long trip in foreign countries.
Smartphone
They are pretty much mini computers nowadays, and Maps.Me has helped me out of a ton of situations.
Power Adaptor
A little heavy but worth it when traveling by train and plane.
Headphones
Maybe the most essential thing to have when staying in a dorm room.
Laptop
A must have for any travel blogger.
Flights
Skyscanner
I always start my flight search by checking Skyscanner. Their choose a month and to anywhere functions are awesome.
Momondo
Probably my second favorite flight search engine.
Kayak
When I first started traveling this was the only flight engine I would use.
Transport / Tours
Seat 61
The best site for booking train tickets.
BlaBlaCar
I used this so much while in Europe. Also the checkpoint from Serbia to Bosnia & Herzegovina has never gone so smooth.
Rome 2 Rio
This is the site I use whenever I'm trying to figure out the best way to get from point A to point B using trasportation.
Get Your Guide
A website to book guided tours and activities. They cover almost every region of the world.
Viator
Another tour and activities website. There are tons of options here.
Accommodation
Hostelworld
An awesome site for backpacker's and really easy to use.
Booking
The best site for both private rooms and hostels. If I could only choose two sites to use while travelling, this would be one of them.
Agoda
This had the cheapest accomodation prices in quite a few of the countries I visited in Southeast Asia.
AirBNB
The best option when traveling to lesser known places in Europe. Also a great options for couples.
Work & Travel
I-to-I
The company I received my English Teaching Certificate through. They have awesome and affordable online teaching courses.
Workaway
A great site for finding work and volunteer options abroad. There are tons of options in most countries.
Charles Schwab
If you are American this is an awesome bank. They have great customer service, and pay you back ATM fees every month. No need to worry about those eight dollar fees in Thailand anymore.