With the new near underway, we’ve rounded up a few recommendations from our favorite trips over the last couple of years. From Alpine wonderland towns to tropical islands, here are 10 amazing bucket list adventures to take in 2018!

1. Lake Como & Cinque Terre (Italy)

Resting in the spectacular shadow of the nearby Rhaetian Alps with rich, green forests growing on its shores, Lake Como is a rare mix of warm, Milanese/Alpine luxury and enchanting history. The villas scattered around the shoreline are wonderful to stay in if you want to wake up to gorgeous views of the lake each morning, or simply a pleasure to visit if you want to marvel at the historical buildings. Don’t miss out on seeing the exquisite Duomo of Como, in the town of Como itself.



A few hours south of Lake Como, you’ll find the impossibly beautiful, pastel-hue perfection region of Cinque Terre, which, if you’re in Italy, is a must visit. Lose yourself in the clusters of brightly colored villages built into the rugged, windswept cliffs and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime sunset or two!

Where to stay: I highly recommend staying at either Villa Margherita B&B or Appartamento Rio Maggiore in Cinque Terre and Il Sereno Lago di Como in Lake Como.

2. The Ring Road (Iceland)

One of the most convenient ways to explore the otherworldly sights Iceland has to offer is to rent yourself a car and traverse the Ring Road that winds around some of the most spectacular natural formations imaginable. Think rainbows set against majestic waterfalls, dramatic plains of basalt tubes littered with diamond-blue icebergs and coastal headlands made of shiny black rock.

One or two absolute must-see sights are the hidden Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, where there’s no shortage of photo opportunities and of course the renowned Blue Lagoon where you can get your soak on in warm, natural, mineral rich waters.

Where to stay: If you’re not interested in sleeping in a campervan, I recommend booking an Airbnb or staying at any of the locations I’ve listed in this post.

3. The Dalmatian Coast (Croatia)

The Croatian Coast is dotted with a seemingly limitless number of enchanting islands, some miniature and unpopulated and others enormous, majestic and home to charming ancient settlements. With so much to see, there’s a lot on offer when it comes to finding your way around the islands.

We recommend island-hopping to get a bit of variety on your trip. Hvar, for example is the most luxurious island, complete with verdant lavender and rosemary fields and full of charm. The Kornati Islands on the other hand are made up of uninhabited, wild islands and reefs where you can enjoy beautifully untouched nature and solitude.

4. Jungfrau (Switzerland)

For us, the Jungfrau region is the ultimate Alpine destination that is a hands-down a bucket list trip for 2018. Home to grand hotels and nature activities in equal number and both of exceptionally high quality, this beautiful region of Switzerland has something for everyone!

In between glacial lakes and snow capped mountains, the Jungfrau region offers everything from mouth-watering Swiss chocolate and dining in castles, to paragliding at 4000m or hiking through unimaginably perfect Alpine scenery.

Where to stay: Hotel Silberhorn is budget friendly and in THE perfect location!

5. Utah’s National and State Parks

If anywhere was to give Iceland’s surreal scenery a run for its money, it’d be the dramatic, majestic landscapes of Utah’s National and State Parks. Literally millions of years in the making, the expanses of rugged, red rock and dusty plains have been the backdrop to some of the USA’s most interesting history and some of Hollywood’s most famous Westerns!



Be sure to stop by Arches National Park, home to the highest concentrations of arches in the world and don’t miss out on Monument Valley, located in the middle of Navajo heartland and so perfectly Western it’ll have you feeling like a pioneer.

Where to stay: complete guide to Utah’s National ParksSee my to get my recommendations on where to stay!

6. The Na Pali Coast (Kauai)

Stunning Kauai is especially known for its impressive mountain scenery and tropical jungle heart. However, on the North coast of the island, you’ll find the dramatically huge and grand Na Pali coastline, a fantastic formation of towering cliffs looming over the ocean that is truly a wonder to see.

One of our favorite activities of the entire trip was embarking on a Na pali Coast boat ride along the rugged and beautiful cliffs. The Na Pali Coast is a photographers paradise and one of National Geographic’s best destinations to shoot.

Where to stay: If you’re looking to stay close to the Na Pali Coast, St. Regis Princeville is always a good choice. For more budget-friendly options, I loved Aston Islander on the Beach and Koloa Landing. Keep in mind these last two options will require an hour to two hour drive to the Na Pali Coast.

7. Baja’s Sea of Cortez

From whale sharks, to sea lions to Pacific bird colonies, the coastline of the Sea of Cortez is home to picture perfect coves, rugged rock landscapes and endless activities in between.

One of our favorite trips was heading out on an Un-Cruise island hopping experience where we had the opportunity to kayak, snorkel and paddle board in the crystal clear waters surrounding the many beautiful islands around Baja Sur. On land, we were taken on guided hikes, rode mules to desert oases or just kicked back with a cocktail on the pristine beaches!

8. Scuba Dive in Bonaire

A lesser known spot amongst the scuba diving destinations in the Caribbean, Bonaire is known for its abundant marine life below the surface of the warm, clear water. There are 86 different dive sites in total!

What I loved about Bonaire was that there was a little something for all different abilities and interests. Besides the diving and snorkeling options, there are also a number of sandy and stony beaches to explore, mountain hiking and windsurfing.

9. New Zealand

Another one for the photography lovers, New Zealand is best explored by road with the freedom to stop as you please and get those unforgettable pictures along the way. You could start with the Thermal Explorer Highway, a much-loved route that begins in Auckland and takes you past the island’s largest lake and the impressive Haka Falls.

Or for a change of scenery, try the drive between Queenstown and Glenorchy where you’ll be treated to towering, Lord of the Rings-esque mountainscapes and snow peaks.

10. Cuba

Home to the best mojitos on the planet and sizzling hot salsa dancing, Cuba is one of those places that can steal your heart within the first day of arriving. If you’re travelling from the USA, we highly recommend booking a place on the newly approved Holland America Cuba cruise, where you’ll get treated to the best bits of Cuba.

With two days on the island — in two different ports — you’ll get to experience the buzzing culture of Havana as well as the history of Cienfuegos and its surrounding towns.

Here are 20 of the best travel hacks I’ve gathered after 15 years of traveling the world. Use these to save money on your next trip!

1. Book In The Afternoon

Though it’s well known that flight prices are likely to fluctuate during the week, not many people know that they also change during the day. To save some money, book in the afternoon as prices tend to be higher in the morning when business travelers book most of their flights.

2. Check Prices On The Less Popular Booking Sites

Online Travel Booking Agencies allow you to search for the best price across a number of different airlines at once. Oftentimes, the less popular sites offer bigger discounts compared to the major OTAs. These are a few of our favorite sites to check prices: Momondo, Vayama, and Skyscanner. Tip: Be sure to read the change/cancellation fees carefully before you book.

3. Set Up Flight Alerts

If there’s a particular place you want to go, sign up for flight alerts with AirfaireWatchDog. You’ll get emails whenever there’s a drop in price from the departure location you set. Also, sites like Scott’s Cheap Flights offer deal alerts to your email for a small fee — these are often the mistake fares that you only have a small window to purchase but they save you hundreds of dollars. I’ve found some great deals with his service!

4. Choose Affordable Accommodation

Other than flights, hotels end up being the next most expensive thing when planning a trip, but if you’re willing to sacrifice homogenous roadside enterprises for something a little more economical, you can spend more on activities.

Hostels, both backpacker, and luxury are excellent alternatives that often provide the same quality of service as hotels. We use booking.com to find the best prices on hostels and hotels.

5. Earn Money While Traveling

In today’s market, there are a hundred different ways to make money while you’re on the road. Teaching English to children or adults or freelancing on platforms like Upwork are just a few of the options.

6. Become A House-Sitter

House-sitting is not something many people consider when traveling, but it’s a great way to not only get FREE accommodation, but you’ll also get a better idea of what it’s like to actually live in the destination you’re visiting.

Trusted Housesitters is the best website to connect with homeowners looking for people to house-sit and care for their pets while they are away. They have the largest selection of houses all over the world. I recommend becoming a member to get the best selection of house-sit gigs and have the opportunity to apply for the most popular locations as soon as they are listed!

7. Roaming Charges

After my first international trip, years ago, I came home to a huge cell phone bill. Luckily, nowadays, you can either switch out your SIM card for a local one to avoid international fees or purchase an international package with your current carrier.

If you’re based in the United States and you travel often, T-Mobile includes free international data on their basic plans, which has literally changed my life. I no longer have to worry about going without service or scrambling to find WiFi. I’m actually surprised at how many frequent travelers don’t know about this feature with T-Mobile.

8. Shop Like A Local

When it comes to everyday items like fruit and coffee, find your local market and head there instead of the nearest supermarket chain. Especially in places like Asia and South America, you’re guaranteed to find everything you need at a reduced cost.

9. Make Use Of Your Carry-On Luggage

Virtually every airline offers you one free bag of hand-luggage, so if you’re in doubt about the weight of your larger cases, cram as much of it into your hand luggage as possible (within the dimensions restrictions) to avoid paying extra fees at the airport. Even better, travel with a carry-on only!

10. Don’t Change Currency At The Airport

You’re bound to be busy in the weeks leading up to your departure date but make sure you leave yourself time to exchange currency at your bank. They’re notorious for giving the worst exchange rates and for a little extra effort you can save yourself a significant amount.

11. Don’t Pay For WiFi, Find It For Free

Lots of Open WiFi zones will ask you to purchase a set amount of data but when you’re traveling, it’s incredibly easy to find free WiFi if you’re surrounded by bars and restaurants. Where there are lots of people, there’s WiFi!

12. Use An 8-Week Rule For Flights

Studies have also shown that 8 weeks in advance is the perfect time to book your flights. Any later and prices will start increasing and any earlier and your plans could change due to unforeseen circumstances and you may have a worthless ticket.

13. Learn The Art Of Haggling

This applies to accommodation and, in many countries, items you’ll come across in markets and shops. You’d be surprised at how many hotels are willing to negotiate rates to keep their occupancy rate up — and street vendors will always be willing to arrive at a reasonable agreement with you!

14. Get Multi-Day Passes

One of the biggest money savers if you’re going to be in the same city or country for longer than a few days is to get an all-inclusive, multi-day pass. Use it as many times as you want to get around town and save money!

15. Use Public Transport, Not Taxis

Allow yourself the luxury of taxis or Uber to and from the airport when you’re weighed down with luggage, but otherwise, use public transport.

16. Make The Most Of Lunchtime Menus

If you’re willing to eat-in at dinner time, you can save a huge amount by uncovering some great value lunch menus around town instead of dining out in the evening. Many reputable restaurants serve world-class food during the day for a fraction of their dinner prices.

17. Rent An Apartment

With sites like AirBnb making it easier than ever to enjoy city breaks in comfort and style, you’ll find that renting an apartment can work out a lot cheaper than an extended stay in a hotel, plus you get the luxury of your own space and absolute privacy.

18. Cook At Home

While most hotels won’t offer cooking facilities, the majority of hostels and rented apartments do — and something as simple as preparing your own meals (with delicious local food!) will make your trip a lot cheaper.

19. Find Free Things To Do

From free-walking tours to complimentary tastings at farmers markets — there’s an unbelievable amount of free activities on offer in metropolitan hubs as it’s a good way to attract people to visit the city. Simply Google “free activities + your location” and have some fun for free!

20. Use Downloadable And Digital Guides

For the latest information on great deals, free things to do and generally budget-friendly places to eat and sights to see, download a city guide to your destination of choice so you can refer to it while you’re on the road.

Packing light for carry-on only is an incredibly liberating habit to get into. Doing so will not only allow you to avoid those nasty checked-baggage fees, it will also save you precious minutes at the baggage carousel and give you peace of mind knowing where your belongings are at all times.



While the decision to ditch the checked bag has many benefits, it also requires sacrifice and a fair bit of planning.

Choose The Right Bag

Packing for carry-on only begins with choosing the right bag. First, check your airline’s website for size restrictions, and then choose a bag that complies. We have used this one by Nicole Miller and, given its two separate sides, found it great for organizing. Plus, the spinner wheels are a must-have when trying to maneuver airports and train stations!

Bring Versatile Clothing

Cut down on space and weight by bringing articles of clothing that can be used for more than one purpose. For example, bring a colorful pashmina that can act as a sarong, scarf, light blanket, cover-up, or privacy curtain.

Another versatility tip is to color coordinate your clothing. Keeping every item of clothing in your bag in the same general hue will give you more outfit choices than packing clothing from every color of the rainbow. I tend to bring signature pieces — such as jeans and shirts — in black or grey and dress up my outfits with colorful scarves and accessories like this turquoise bracelet.

Use Packing Cubes

Sorting your belongings into packing cubes is truly the best way to organize your bag. With packing cubes, if you’re in transit and are in need of something at the bottom of your luggage, you don’t need to take every item out and turn your packing job into chaos in the process! We’ve been using them for smaller items on our travels for years!

Fill Your Boots

Space is everything when packing for carry-on only, even the space in your footwear! Make sure to fill every last nook and cranny of your larger shoes or boots with clothes.



Likewise if you’re a hat wearer, filling the crown of your hats with clothes not only saves space, it’ll help your hats maintain their shape!

Roll Your Clothes

Rather than folding them, rolling your clothes will optimize the space in your bag and help keep them wrinkle-free. Additionally, as with packing cubes, the rolling method will make things easy to find without having to unpack your entire bag!

Plan For Laundry

If you’re going to be away from home for more days than you have outfits, plan on doing a load of laundry at your destination. Check and see if your accommodation has washers or a pick up and delivery laundry service, or simply map the nearest laundromat!

Remove The ‘What If’s’

We’ve all played the ‘what if’ game when packing. “What if it rains the whole time?” “What if I end up needing five different pairs of shoes for five unidentified, yet, specific activities?”

While such concerns can be tended to with a larger checked bag when packing light for carry-on, it’s best to remove the what-ifs and focus on the items you know you’ll actually need.

Buy At Your Destination

There’s no rule that says you have to take everything you’ll need with you! If you know you’ll be able to purchase items such as deodorant, toothpaste, or in the case of rain, a travel umbrella at your destination, then do so!



This is an especially good tip if your packing routine includes liquids. Given airline restrictions on the amount of liquids allowed in the cabin, it can definitely pay to bring only the bare necessities on the flight, and then pick up products such as shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and contact solution at your destination.

India is an enormous and diverse destination. Bordered by Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Myanmar, not to mention the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, means that there are many different sides to the country. More than 20 official languages, multiple religions and a variety of cuisines exist within India’s borders. To truly experience the breadth of Indian culture and history, travel is key. Head to as many of these best places to visit in Indias as your itinerary allows.

10. Mysore

In the southern tip of India, you’ll find the city of Mysore. Once the capital of the Wodeyar dynasty, Mysore is best known for housing the magnificent Mysore Palace. The palace is the epitome of opulence, and a tour through the structure will reveal upscale touches like carved rosewood doors, ceilings decorated in ivory and countless paintings on the walls. If you’re in Mysore, you won’t want to miss the incredible Devaraja Market, an outdoor experience on Dhanwanthri Road where you can buy some chai tea and then browse stalls offering produce or sandalwood carvings.

9. Amritsar

In the northern province of Punjab is Amritsar, a holy city and a mecca for the Sikh religion. The main attraction in Amritsar is the Golden Temple, also known as the Harmandir Sahib. Built more than 400 years ago, this temple truly is golden, and it is always packed with Sikhs visiting from around India and the rest of the world. You can tour the Golden Temple regardless of religion, but you will need to show respect by covering your head and removing your shoes. Enter the temple through the Ghanta Ghar, the main entrance, and admire the Amrit Sarovar, a pool surrounding the temple where pilgrims bathe.

8. Ladakh

In northernmost India, in the heavily disputed Kashmir region, is the mountainous destination of Ladakh. This region is large, but it has a low population density and a number of nomadic residents. Breathtaking, pristine scenery is a major draw to the area, but virtually all travelers will also spend time in the town of Leh. The town is located at a very high elevation, and it is also home to the 17th century Palace of the King of Ladakh. Buddhist culture is also prominent in Leh, and you may wish to explore some of the many Buddhist monasteries and temples in the Old Town.

7. Goa Beaches

On the western coast of India is Goa, a former colony of Portugal that blends Indian culture with colonial influences and plenty of international tourism. Goa is popular largely because of its spectacular beaches. The busiest and most popular of all is Candolim Beach, where travelers from around the world flock to soak up the sun. Anjuna Beach, by contrast, is far less crowded. It is also an amazing place where you can walk to Chapora Fort and admire the sandy coastline from a new perspective. Palolem is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Goa with it’s natural bay surrounded by lofty headlands on either sides. Goa is widely loved by adventurers, and recreational activities are plentiful for those eager for some fun in the sun.

6. Delhi

If you’re spending any time in Northern India, you will almost certainly visit the capital city of Delhi. The enormous sprawling destination is home to several districts, and it is considered to be one of the oldest cities in the world. One of the top sights in Delhi is the Red Fort, or Lal Qila, which was built in the 17th century. The Red Fort is made from sandstone, and you will be able to walk through its Lahore Gate, into the bazaar, through the jewel palace and even into the former residence of the sultan. While in Delhi, you should also make time for the many museums and religious structures that make up the city.

5. Ellora & Ajanta Caves

In the state of Maharashtra, you can explore the caves of both Ellora and Ajanta. At Ellora, there is an enormous complex of shrines carved from the rocky landscape. These 34 cave shrines are up to 1,500 years old, and they are from three distinct religions: Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism. Two hours away is Ajanta, which is also home to 29 caves. The Ajanta caves are covered in murals and paintings, most of which reflect Buddhist stories. While the two cave complexes are two hours away from one another, it is well worth visiting both to compare these incredible attractions.

4. Varanasi

On the banks of the River Ganges is Varanasi, an ancient city known as the spiritual capital of India. The city’s history dates back for more than 3,000 years, making it one of the oldest continually inhabited cities on the planet. Religious buildings are certainly a major attraction in Varanasi, so be sure to check out the Alamagir Mosque, the Shri Kashi Vishwanth Temple and the Sankat Mochan Temple, which is filled with monkeys. At sunrise, make your ways to the banks of the Ganges. Each day, more than 60,000 people bathe in the river, and this event is something truly unforgettable.

3. Kerala

The southwestern state of India known as Kerala is a place of tropical beauty. Palm trees, white sand beaches and eco-tourism are all big reasons to explore the region. Besides its famous backwaters, elegant houseboats and temple festivals, Kerala is also home to Thekkady, a tiger preserve which allows you to admire flora and fauna without crowds. The hub of Kerala is the city of Kochi, where you can see the local fishing industry thriving along with modern high-rises and colonial architecture. Kochi is ethnically and religiously diverse, and in a single afternoon you can explore a Jewish synagogue, a Dutch palace, the Portuguese Pallipuram Fort and the Hindu Thrikkakara Temple.

2. Agra

Agra is one of the most-visited cities in all of India. Once the capital of the Mughal Empire, Agra is now home to the iconic structure known as the Taj Mahal. The white marble mausoleum was built in the 17th century, and it is widely regarded as a monument of love. While spectacularly beautiful, the Taj Majal can be very crowded. Also worth seeing in Agra is the Agra Fort, which is very similar to the Red Fort of Delhi. You can tour this 16th century fort and even explore the interior of its beautiful palace.

1. Rajasthan

Northwest India is where you’ll find the state of Rajasthan, which borders Pakistan and is home to the Thar Desert. Whether you’re interested in Rajput history or views of the Aravallis Mountains, Rajasthan contains some of the best places to visit in India. Jaipur, or the Pink City, is the capital of Rajasthan and a wonderful place to begin your trip. It is home to an array of incredible architecture, including three forts, many temples and the extraordinary City Palace. Also in Rajasthan and worth visiting is Jodhpur, the so-called Blue City that is the gateway to the Thar Desert as well as the home to the spectacular Mehrangarh Fort.

When planning a trip as a solo female, it’s important to know which destinations are safe. The mainstream media plays a big part in convincing people (especially parents) that traveling as a solo female is automatically dangerous, lonely or generally a potentially bad idea, but this negative stereotyping couldn’t be further from the truth.



I’ve traveled all over the world as a solo female and can vouch for all the beautiful destinations where I never once felt out of place or in danger. While I always recommend staying aware of your surroundings and not walking around alone at night in questionable neighborhoods, traveling alone builds confidence, personality and I’m grateful to say it has gifted me with countless treasured friends made on the road.

If you’re thinking about planning a trip, don’t hold yourself back — just go! To give you some inspiration, here are a few of my favorite cities in Europe — perfect for women traveling alone!

Dublin, Ireland

The Irish capital is an incredibly fun place to visit thanks to the Irish’s famous hospitality and amicable nature. The men (and women) have a contagious zest for life and you can easily get swept along and enjoy yourself in the company of friendly locals.

Try staying in a hostel to meet some travel buddies. The best hostels will be around the center, close to where the action is, so it’ll never be a long walk home unaccompanied at night. Dublin is great for variety too — it’s not all just pubs and cobbled streets! Just a short distance from the city are incredible sights like the Giant’s Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher, both a must-see.

Rome, Italy

Whether you’re going to visit for the world-class food, or to marvel at the gorgeous sights, Rome is a city filled with travelers, locals and students alike. With such a mix of people, you can easily forget you’re traveling alone.

There are hostels around every corner, but if you’re looking to stay in luxury, then stay in the garden-filled Via Veneto District. Common sense applies here just like in every city, so look out for pickpockets, especially on public transport and in busy tourist spots like the Colosseum.

Paris, France

Now we all know Paris’s reputation as a romantic couple’s destination, but let’s be honest, there’s more to it than that! The iconic city is full of beauty, charm and historical intrigue. The Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées are all within walking distance of each other and the Metro is perfectly safe during daylight and early evening.

For a real feel of Paris, stay in the beautiful Montmartre District, filled with Parisian delights around every corner — and walk into the center each day for sightseeing.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik has adopted the best elements of Croatia’s laidback Mediterranean vibe which makes it an amazing place to travel on your own as a female. Also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, this city is a popular tourist destination where you can spend hours wandering stone streets, enjoying world class seafood or people watching in outdoor cafes.

Staying in the center and visiting casual restaurants is a great way to meet people or, if you’d rather go it alone, there’s an abundance of historical landmarks and museums around town that will keep you entertained.

Berlin, Germany

A city full of artists and history in equal measure, Berlin is an electrifying trip that will leave you inspired and wanting to come back for more. The socially progressive attitude that’s been around for decades means that there are a lot of locals and solo travelers in Berlin. The city is spread out, so it doesn’t feel crowded and going on a walking art or museum tour will give you the chance to get to know some new people and give you a feel for the popular areas like Mitte, Tiergarten or Kreuzberg.

Bruges, Belgium

The impossibly charming city of Bruges is small enough to walk absolutely everywhere, giving you the chance to get to know the gorgeous canals, towers and gardens it’s famous for. If you’re looking to relax, then it’s the perfect destination for a solo traveler as the pace of life is slow and there’s not a lot of action after dark. Enjoy Belgian chocolate and beer and wander the cobbled streets to your heart’s content in this quiet Belgian gem.

Vienna, Austria

Filled with breathtaking architecture, coffee taverns and one of the best historic centers in Europe, Vienna is surprisingly easy to navigate considering how much there is packed into it. Between Baroque castles and Imperial palaces there’s no shortage of sights to see that will also be filled with fellow travelers if you’re after some company.

Bergen, Norway

This beautiful waterfront city is built at the foot of some of Norway’s most spectacular mountains and is right on the edge of the water, making you feel like you’re really in the heart of Scandinavia. As one of the most developed countries in the world, Norway is incredibly safe — and the pastel colored fishing town of Bergen is well-removed from any big city potential dangers. The biggest threat is to your budget — it’s a notoriously expensive country!

Reykjavik, Iceland

Abundant in natural beauty in every direction and officially the safest country in the world, Iceland is a strong contender for one of the best solo female travel destinations. Staying in Reykjavik will give you the chance to experience Icelandic life in the city and see some incredible sights like the Hallgrímskirkja Church.

You’ll find waterfalls, icy-blue fjords and black sand beaches on popular routes like the Ring Road — and if you want some travel buddies for the trip, the sociable hostels around Reykjavik are the perfect places to find fellow adventurers.

London, England

Traveling as a solo female in London really couldn’t be easier. The polite and accommodating nature of many local people combined with the breakneck pace of ever-evolving and multinational culture means you’ll feel welcome while always having something to do.

To see why London is championed as a foodie capital, lose yourself in the markets of Shoreditch, Brick Lane or Camden Town — or for theatre and nightlife, try the buzzing West End. Walking around London can be tricky thanks to its sprawling layout, so ask around if you’re unsure about public transport routes and know how to get back to your place to avoid paying a hefty taxi fare.

With more young, inexperienced wanderlusters traveling now than ever before, general safety precautions are in order. Here’s how to stay safe on your travels:

Get Travel Insurance

I know this sounds like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised by how many people get too caught up in their trip itinerary plans to think of travel insurance. If you don’t already have it, you most definitely need it; safeguard against lost luggage or canceled flights can save you big bucks in the long run and give you peace of mind.

Keep Electronics to A Minimum

For tech-savvy millennials it’s tempting to tote around every camera accessory possible, but in the case of electronics less is more. You don’t need your huge digital camera on every excursion, and who are you kidding – you won’t be working from your laptop in your free time.



Your phone can take awesome quality photos and send emails if need be. Lugging around bulky electronics not only slows you down but also makes you an obvious target for those looking to snatch them up. With the exception of your phone (obviously), keep your electronics locked up in your hotel room’s valuables safe – or better yet, don’t bring any on your trip to begin with!

Keep Your Head Up

Walk like you know where you’re going; it’s widely known that your less likely to be approached if you are quick and alert. As an alternative to staring down at your phone’s Google maps while navigating around a new city, plug in an earbud and listen to the voice guide you! You’ll take in more sights and be more aware of your surroundings.

Be Cautious at Bars

No one’s telling you NOT to go on Tinder dates when traveling, just be careful. Advertising that you’re in town on vacation makes you a bit more susceptible to being targeted than the next person. Watch your drink (that goes without saying), but watch your bartender make your drink too; not everyone is trustworthy.

Download Safety Apps

With solo travel trending right now, it’s likely that at some point you’ll end up wandering around an unfamiliar city alone. Family and friends can keep tabs on you even from a distance, thanks to some of the free apps on the market. Must-haves include:

• Uber: Most 20- or 30- somethings already have Uber downloaded, but don’t forget that it spans beyond just your local barhopping scene! If public transportation intimidates or confuses you, don’t be afraid to call for an Uber during your travels.
• bSafe: Although your friends or family members must download it as well, it is definitely worth it if traveling alone. If you are in a situation that feels unsafe, the app can give your friends your location, have them “follow” you as you walk to your destination, or send them an SOS if you are panicked. Although they may not be able to come to your rescue, they can notify police who can.
• Drunk Mode: Another app that’s probably already downloaded on your phone, but (amazingly enough) can be put to use when sober. Turn it on before setting out on your day’s activities, and if you decide to separate from the group at some point to take your own detour it’s easy to find your friends’ location. Plus, it’s fun to look back and see where you went at the end of the day!

Be Aware of Your Money

Keep always keep small amounts of cash on hand, and keep copies of the fronts and backs of all of your credit cards (as well as passports or IDs). Also, don’t forget to notify your bank that you are traveling because they will freeze your cards at the most inconvenient times if you don’t.

Dress Inconspicuously

Try not to stand out; do some basic research as to what the locals generally wear. What may be standard summer clothing in the U.S. may be much too revealing in other countries and can even be considered inappropriate. Men and women alike, though, should try to be as inconspicuous as possible when in an unfamiliar place. Blend in! You’re less likely to be targeted by pickpockets and potentially dangerous predators. Which leads me to my next point…

Don’t Let People Distract You

Pickpocketing is a thing; it really happens, especially in tourist hotspots. The innocent-looking woman or child shoving a sign or paper in your face is often an attempt to catch you off guard and grab your wallet. Don’t be vulnerable – if anyone suddenly approaches you, be mindful that it may be a ploy to quickly divert your attention. Keep valuables secure on your body at all times!

Be Health-Conscious

If you happen to get a few bug bites or a scratch while traveling – especially internationally – make sure to clean and treat them carefully and quickly! Neglect to care for even the most minimal of flesh wounds could lead to serious discomfort and health issues. Keep in mind that most travel and health insurers do not cover medical fees internationally; although your insurance may reimburse you in the future, be prepared to front the cost of any potential hospital bills.

Know Your Country’s Embassy Information

Your country’s embassy or consulate in foreign countries can be helpful in so many unexpected situations. Know their contact information and location! Or better yet, if you live in the U.S. you can sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program – a free service provided by the government that keeps you updated on safety and security information, and can help you stay in contact with your family in case of emergency.

Vacation season is here and that means being travel ready. You have to plan where to go, how to get there, and what to pack. With all that going on, it doesn’t hurt to have a few helpful tricks in the bag.



Household Hacker is here to lay out a few hacks for your next trip. You know how you forget to pack something or an item gets crunched up in your luggage? Avoid having to make extra pitstops for replacements or forgotten belongings by using these tricks.

Here, we outline five out of the ten awesome hacks that Household Hacker is demoing for us. Be sure to take some notes on this one!

Binder Clips

They’re cheap, versatile, and come in a variety of sizes, but how many ways do you really use binder clips? For traveling, snap one onto your razor or toothbrush as a protective cover. Another handy tip is to prop your toothbrush up with a binder clip so it’s not sitting on a bathroom counter. Bristles up!

Keep your earbuds tight by popping them inside a clip and wrapping the cord around the binder wires. No more lost or tangled buds!

Map it Out

When you need directions but don’t have a reliable signal or data to burn through, there’s Google offline maps to the rescue! This hidden feature of the Google Maps app allows you to save a part of a map for offline viewing. All you do is zoom in on which map you want to save and then type OK Maps into the app’s search bar.

You’ll be prompted to download the map and will receive a message saying it’s been cached. Done and done! The only catch is that it will only capture up to 10 miles. Perfect for scoping out unfamiliar areas, this trick works on Android and iOS devices alike.

Makeshift Charger

I’ve done it and you probably have too: forgetting the phone charger. Sometimes the plug just gets separated from the cord and you’re stuck. Other times, like when on a cruise ship, there aren’t enough outlets available.

To get around this issue, you can connect your USB cord to the back of a TV and charge your phone. Look for the slot near the HDMI ports or audio connections and plug away!

Snack Pack

Long road trips can bring out the worst in people, especially when they’re hungry or tired. It’s prudent to pack snacks or small meals to take along for the ride. To keep everything organized, you can use a craft storage box.

Flat containers that come with built-in compartments and snapping lids work best, allowing you to separate foods and keep them fresh. They can even be stacked and stored in cooler bags!

Leakproof Toiletries

Messy bags? So you packed your toothpaste, shampoo, and lotion into Ziploc bags, but now there’s a splattered mess where you’ve neatly stored your toiletries. Want to avoid this?

For products like shampoo and lotion, pop the cap off, squeeze any excess air from the bottle, and place a small piece of plastic wrap over the opening as a seal. Replace the top. For toothpaste, simply add some cling wrap under the cap.