Travel Planning Resources

The Best Online Resources for Planning Travel

With so many different travel websites ranging from editorial content to booking engines, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones are the most reliable and fit your needs. I appreciate all the hardcore travelers out there who have trip planning down to a science. For the rest of us, a handful of trustworthy sources and familiar brands can bring some peace-of-mind that plans will flow as anticipated.

Just so you know, I’m no novice. I have traveled extensively throughout my life for both business and pleasure. I’ve used professional travel agents, as well as my own DIY itinerary planning. I’ve flown, driven, sailed, hiked, dined, partied, and stayed literally all over the globe – and utilized a slew of online resources to accomplish my plans. Putting that out there to sure-up my credentials to write this post:)

So, here we go! I have outlined my favorites below. This is what works for me. Nothing against the other players in the travel planning space that didn’t make the cut. There are plenty of great ones! But, as mentioned earlier, I like my whittled-down list and I’m happy to share why!

In full transparency, some of these links are affiliate links that I may receive a small commission on if you click on them and complete a booking. However, some of them are just regular links because I’m not part of every affiliate network. I’m sharing all my faves regardless:)

Favorite Blogger for Practical Info: The Points Guy

I really rely on The Points Guy to keep me apprised of reward programs, offers, and general travel news. If you are looking for ways to maximize loyalty programs and are interested in reading reviews, this is the best resource out there (IMHO). I subscribe to the Daily Newsletter. This one daily email is enough for me and my Inbox.

Above screencapture: The Points Guy

Favorite Blogger for Destination Inspiration: Hand Luggage Only

These guys make blogging look so easy. Their content is gorgeous and inspiring. I follow them on IG, but also hit up their website whenever I start researching a new destination. They’ve been literally everywhere!

Favorite Flight Price Tracker: Google Flights

Great flight comparison and tracking tool even through it does not show flights for Southwest. I also really like the “Explore” option so I can narrow down destinations based on flight deals.

 

Above screencapture: Google Flights

Favorite Booking Engines: Orbitz and Expedia

These two websites are my go-to booking engines for price comparisons, ratings, and bookings. Both have loyalty programs like Orbucks and OneKey that you can sign-up for to receive credits towards future bookings. Once you reach status, there are even more benefits. For example, my TSA fees have been completely waived by being an Orbitz Platinum Member. If you don’t travel that often, I would recommend picking one of these and committing so you stand a better chance of achieving status and reward clout.

Above: Links to respective websites

Favorite Hotel Chain & Rewards Program: Marriott Bonvoy

I’m a Marriott girl. Marriott has hotel properties in all the major cities around the globe. I usually check their website first when I am researching my destination. If they don’t have any options, I will look at other historical and boutique properties because I love those, too:). The nice thing about Marriott is (1) their extensive network where you can earn Bonvoy points to redeem on future stays and (2) having some idea of what to expect. There is a reasonable amount of consistency between their brands. For example, you know what you’re going to get at a Courtyard vs. a JW regardless of which city you are in.

Other Favorite Resort Property Brands: Fairmont and Relais & Chateaux

I truly love these other property brands. However, they do not have as many properties as other chains. So, it stands to reason that I don’t stay at them as often. Fairmont Gold is amazing! Some of the places I have visited have been largely driven by a desire to stay at a Fairmont. I also love Relais & Chateaux — both the hotels and restaurants. They are lovely and often destinations themselves. My husband & I got married at a R&C property so it holds a special place in our hearts.

Favorite Home Rentals: Vrbo

I have used Vrbo to book all of our ski condo rentals for the past five-ish years, along with some cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains. Searching for properties with the space and amenities we need is easy and I’ve had nothing but great experiences with every host we’ve ever stayed with.

Above: Links to respective websites

Favorite Car Rental Agency: Enterprise

If you have no strong preference, at least consider building up loyalty points by prioritizing your bookings with a single car rental agency. We’ve had some bad experiences with other rental companies, but Enterprise‘s cars and service have consistently been a winner.

Favorite Travel Credit Card: Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase Sapphire Preferred has an annual fee of $95 but it has been so worth it. I get double points on all travel-related transactions and can use my reward points to book or transfer to travel partners. I’ve flown and stayed for free so many places with my Chase Sapphire points.

Favorite Tour Booking Site: Viator

Booking a tour through an organized operator is so much more comfortable for some folks, especially for those that don’t travel as often. I am usually okay with finding my way around without a guide — usually. In cases where I’m not feeling 100% confident or just want to learn about something from an expert, Viator is where I start looking for ideas to work into my itinerary.

Favorite Event Ticket Apps: SeatGeek and TodayTix

These two apps are both on my phone and I use them all the time to find last minute tickets to Broadways shows. You can use them to find tickets to all kinds of sporting events, concerts, and live performances in major cities. I love being able to spontaneously decide to catch a show when I’m in town for business and end up with a free evening on my hands. But, you can also use these apps to book ahead.

Favorite Restaurant Booking Site: OpenTable

I started using OpenTable a long time ago to make all my local dinner reservations. Now, I use it for travel too. Rarely do I not have dinner reservations in my travel itineraries. The best places book up fast and I’m not a fan of waiting for a table — if I can even get one. Experiencing regional cuisine while traveling can really enhance your overall experience and immersion in a culture. The international options aren’t as comprehensive through. I often have to book directly with the restaurant or use another booking tool.

 

Above screencapture: OpenTable

Looking for other recommendations? Please let me know if there is something I’ve missed!