Viking River Cruises had not sailed onto my radar until my mom and dad cruised the Rhine River several years ago. And I don’t think that I would have considered a cruise for myself until my dad passed away, and I decided to sail the Danube River with my mom. It just seemed like something that older people did. (I know — I’m 50. Go ahead and laugh.)

But from the minute that we met our Viking-appointed driver — at midnight in the Budapest airport after a 30-hour trip from Fort Wayne, Indiana, via Chicago (where we were delayed for mechanical issues) and then Frankfurt (where we then missed our connection and ended up with a 12-hour layover) — I decided that I could get used to the bountiful little luxuries provided by a Viking River Cruise. 

The Pros of a Viking River Cruise

A bit of perspective: I’ve never been on a cruise of any kind. Most of my travel is roughing it: whether literally, out in the woods; or organizing busy budget trips for my family; or traveling solo, in which I’m solely responsible for my safety, transportation, accommodations, food, water and activities.

I’ve never been on a trip where people took care of things for me. So the very nature of a cruise in which things are planned and managed is a novelty. And that leads me to a long list of pros:

1. Transportation from and to the airport is arranged. If you book your airfare through Viking (we got free airfare as part of one of their regular promotions), then Viking will send you a baggage tag and a sticker for your shirt before you leave, and someone will greet you at the airport upon arrival, take you to the boat and put your luggage in your room. This was especially welcome during our unexpectedly arduous trip overseas. The same works in reverse: When it was time to leave, Viking took us by bus to the airport, helped us with our luggage and showed us to check-in.
2. You can get help during your flights. If you book your airfare through Viking and you run into travel snags, then you can call a number that they supply exclusively for flight issues and someone will guide you to solutions, as well as notify the boat.
3. Drinking water is abundant and free. They’ll give you a bottle of water when they pick you up from the airport. There’s always a large glass bottle in your room. When you depart for an included excursion, they’ll provide a bottle of water. I drink a lot of water all day long. In some places where I’ve traveled, tap water is unsafe, and drinking water is scarce. In others, it’s a matter of buying, carrying and keeping enough on hand to feel hydrated. On this cruise, someone made sure that I always had drinking water. I’d say it’s the little things, but this was huge for me.
4. The boat is luxurious. It’s not big, but it’s modern, bright, very clean and sleek, reflecting the Scandanavian design aesthetic of its country of origin. There are floor-to-ceiling windows nearly everywhere in the shared spaces, making it feel open and airy and allowing for great views of the passing scenery.
5. The service is exceptional. Thanks to my work as a food and wine writer, I’ve enjoyed some amazing service, and the people working on our Viking River Cruise were on par. They lead with enthusiastic welcomes, gracious offers of help and hard work.
6. The food is fantastic. There’s a huge selection of menu items at every meal, including dishes local to the region that you’re visiting each night at dinner. There were two coffee stations on our boat with cappuccino machines, hot tea and cookies available all day. The lounge had a full bar and, if you have the Silver Spirits package, premium cocktails, beer and wine are free. (Otherwise, a nice selection of wine and beer is free at lunch and dinner.) Breakfast and lunch include both a self-service buffet area, and sit-down, full-service options. Dinner is full service. SIDENOTE: In honor of Viking’s Norwegian heritage, Viking gives guests a glass of Aquavit, a Scandinavian-distilled beverage. Tradition dictates that the Linie Aquavit they serve must be carried in oak casks on ships that cross the equator twice on a four-month voyage spanning 35 countries. It’s believed that the moving seas and temperature changes allow more flavor to be extracted from the casks. How specific and charming is that?
7. The included excursions are phenomenal. I pride myself on comprehensively canvassing a city when I visit. I do a ton of research beforehand to identify places to see and to get a sense of the vibe and history. I map out routes and plan how to get around, whether by foot, public transportation or even a Hop-On Hop-Off bus. The basic tours included in our Viking River Cruise each morning eliminated all of that legwork — I could simply show up, look and learn.
8. There are spaces to tuck away. The boat includes a tiny library space and workspace at one end of the upper level where you can read, write or go online if you need a bit of a break from all the people-ing. (See the people-ing and wifi cons below.)
9. There is community. If you’re traveling solo and can swing the single supplement, this is a brilliant way to feel a part of a group. People grow familiar very quickly, and they’re quite friendly, adept at making interesting conversation. Many are avid travelers with good stories. Yes, the average age of the population on a Viking River Cruise is probably 70. But it’s a largely lovely group of well-traveled people who know how to make small talk and do a good job of it. If you’re traveling solo, you’ll have ample opportunities to make friends and share conversation.
10. It can be very affordable. If you have a traveling companion, and you take advantage of one of the specials — such as free airfare — you will likely beat the cost of a self-organized trip by a mile.

The Cons of a Viking River Cruise

1. There’s no space to work out. Yes, I know. It’s vacation. But after sitting on an airplane for hours (or days) and eating and drinking so much, I wished for a small gym. The upper deck of the ship is an open-air seating area with a walking track. But depending on the time of year in which you cruise, it could be a really brisk walk, as in blustery. 
2. I felt like a conspicuous tourist. During our excursions, we were shuttled to our walking tours in giant motorcoaches. We wore listening devices on bright red lanyards. We followed our guide, who was bearing a sign, in a slow-moving cluster. This all eliminates the opportunity to observe a place unnoticed. It makes you a more obvious target to vendors or pickpockets who follow travelers like bees on honey. And we were sometimes noticeably annoying to local residents.
3. Your time is not entirely your own. There’s not always a chance to linger at something you want to explore further when you’re on an excursion, or to venture further in a place. It’s the tradeoff for being free of planning responsibilities.
4. An introvert could be overwhelmed. If you dine in the restaurant, you’ll share a table with a group. When you go to the mandatory safety presentation, or the cultural presentations and port talks, or the captain’s welcome, you’ll need to continue chatting with other people. Sometimes it’s a lot of people-ing. And on a small boat, you’re not anonymous for long. The good news: The people on my cruise knew very well how to dip into a conversation and dip right back out.  
5. For the solo traveler, it’s expensive. The solo supplement turns an affordable trip into an extravagance. 
6. For a pair, the cheapest rooms are tight. It’s entirely manageable to share one of the lower-deck rooms. They’re well-designed, making the most of the teeny, tiny space. Your two twin beds are pushed together or separated, and there is space under the beds for luggage. But there isn’t enough room for two people to pass each other at the foot of the beds; it’s a bit of a dance to navigate. And any time that you have a suitcase out, it consumes all of the floor space.
7. The internet is unreliable. I was able to work extra before and after my trip and avoid long days or late nights on the laptop during my cruise. But I did need to send some emails and make some social posts, and I was dead in the water, so to speak, for several days. Our service was extra bad — they even brought in a tech team in Vienna, but the service failed again the next day.
8. You lose the sense of place that comes with staying in a destination. On a Viking River Cruise, you’re somewhat esconsed in typical American culture, far more than if you were staying in a local hotel for a few days. 

The Boat

Viking has a fleet of river and ocean cruise ships. Ours was the Viking Jarl, built in 2013. It holds as many as 190 guests. There are three levels on the ship, plus an open-air deck on top. The lower level includes guest rooms and crew areas. The middle level includes guest rooms, guest services and the restaurant, plus a dining terrace. The third level includes guest rooms, a library and other seating, and the lounge. The top level is an open-air deck with a walking track, herb garden, solar panels, shuffleboard and a golf putting area.

The Room

We chose the most affordable room, 101. It had two twin beds, a full bathroom, a small closet, three drawers, a mini fridge and a TV. We had a small window and were eye-level with the water. Other rooms offer more space, or balconies, or other combinations of luxuries and perks.

The Trip

We chose the Romantic Danube, October 2–9, including Budapest, Hungary; Vienna and Krems in Austria; and Passau and Regensburg in Germany.

Day One

Arrival in Budapest. If you arrive as scheduled, then you can embark at 3 p.m., leave your luggage and go into the city to see the sights on your own, or sleep off some jet lag. We missed this part of the trip, arriving after midnight thanks to our flight delays.

Day Two: Budapest, Hungary

An included excursion to Budapest (pronounced Bu-da-pesht). At 8 a.m. we boarded motorcoaches in four groups with four tour guides to the heart of the city. Along the way, our guide explained the basics of the Hungarian language and the large concrete buildings, left over from communist days, in which many of the citizens of the Pest side of Budapest live. Our first stop was Heroes Square, where we disembarked for a history lesson. We reboarded the buses for a driving tour of the Buda side of the city, enjoying views of the Danube, its many bridges and the Parliament Building.

Our second stop was Inner City Parish Church; from there our guide led us on a walking tour through the retail corridor and gave us time to wander the Central Market Hall, where they sell everything from embroidered table runners to made-in-China plastic to spectacular meats and meals. There’s even an Aldi in the basement. I bought some authentic paprika from an upstairs stall. 

After a short visit, we again boarded the buses to meet up with the boat, which had already set sail for Visegrad shortly after we left. After we boarded the boat and headed to the dining room for lunch, the ship continued west. With less than four hours’ sleep the night before, I slept off some of my jet lag and did some writing before catching the tail end of a presentation on Viennese coffeehouse culture in the lounge, followed by the chef’s Champagne reception, dinner in the restaurant, and drinks and live music in the lounge. 

Day 3: Vienna, Austria

An included excursion to Vienna. I should have gone to bed earlier. I should have had less booze. I was dragging again the next morning, and jet lag and early morning boat noise didn’t help. The ship was forced by local police to conduct a passport check — a sometimes occurrence — so we left about 20 minutes after our scheduled 9:15 a.m. departure.  

We again boarded motorcoaches in groups; this time, some were going on different types of tours. Our included excursion took us to the Ringstrasse, the broad boulevard through the city center where we disembarked and walked with our guide through the historic area of Vienna, soaking up his stories of history, buildings and people along the way. 

Our guide left us in front of Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, reiterating directions for the metro and the nearest toilettes for those who wanted to stay in the city for the afternoon rather than take the coach back to the boat. We had already been armed with maps, and our guide even had euros on hand for those who needed to use the restroom and forgot to bring money. (It typically costs 0.50 euros to 1 euro to use a public restroom, known as a toilette or WC/water closest.)

Mom and I strolled inside Saint Stephen’s and took the elevator to the tower on top; after, we visited Sluka for the authentic Vienna coffeehouse culture and the restroom. We made our way back to the Spanish riding school to inquire about tours of the Lippezaner facility, pausing to gape in awe at the interiors of Saint Peter’s and Saint Michael’s churches, but the next ticket wasn’t until 4 p.m., so we meandered around the Hapburg Palace area, then made our way back to the metro near Saint Stephen’s; a short ride put us within a 10-minute walk of the boat. 

Drowsy, I explored the boat a bit and wrote for a while, until our port talk previewing the next day’s activities and then dinner.

Day 4: Vienna, Austria

We were on our own for this day, so Mom and I booked a self-guided Grand Tour of the Schonbrunn Palace, the fantastical “hunting lodge” built at the end of the sixteenth century for Emperor Joseph I and his family. The website for the palace says the tour is 50 to 60 minutes, but allow at least two hours. You’ll want to gawk, and you’ll want to walk the grounds. 

I had the great idea that we should get off the U-Bahn (Vienna’s subway) at the Karlsplatz stop on the green line versus the St. Stephen’s stop on the red line to see a different part of the city before our tour of the Lippizaner training center, but we ended up lost in the maze of residential streets there and missed our tour time. (Sorry, Mom!)

Instead, after we found our way back to the city center we returned to Sluka for coffee and a sacher torte, then headed back to the boat for dinner. We finished our day with an add-on excursion to an orchestral concert of Mozart and Strauss, including dancers and opera singers. It was short and sweet and surprisingly spectacular.

Day 5: Krems, Austria

An included walking tour of Gottweig Abbey. We docked in Krems sometime during the night. In the morning we boarded buses for a short ride to Gottweig Abbey. Parts medieval, parts baroque and thoroughly gorgeous, the monastery is famous for its apricot wines and brandy. While there are roughly 35 monks still living and working there and in the surrounding community, one of the primary sources of revenue for upkeep, aside from leasing the surrounding lands, is tourism. In addition to a visit and wine tasting, you can stay on the grounds, which are rich with views and gardens. 

We returned to the boat for lunch, then sailed the Wachau Valley, a picturesque and rustic section of the Danube famous for its wines. Our program director narrated the sights and identified the small towns along the way while we basked in the warm October sun and sipped Viennese coffee. The day included other talks and a cooking demonstration, along with the usual entertainment in the lounge before and after dinner. There also was a presentation featuring discounts on future Viking River Cruises.

Day 6: Passau, Germany

It was incredibly foggy when we arrived in Passau. The sun soon burned the soft filter off of the Italian-designed pastel buildings to reveal brilliant blue skies, cobblestones and charming passageways at the confluence of three rivers. There were many, many university students, children, dogs and babies in the Old Town area; it made my heart so happy. I had beer at a ratskellar, visited a castle and petted puppies in addition to the included walking tour. 

Passau might have been my favorite place on our cruise. People lined the waterways with friends, families, pups, toddlers, beers and musical instruments to watch the golden hour bathe the picturesque pathways.

Day 7: Regensburg, Germany

The walking tours that morning included a Jewish history option. It was a gut punch in a lot of ways. Our marvelous tour guide, Sylvia Seifert, MA, showed us tiles built into the sidewalk that represent victims of the Holocaust. An art program throughout Europe, they’re called stumbling stones — not to catch the feet, but the mind, and they’re placed in front of the places where the victims last lived. She is working on a book to compile information about each of the stumbling stones memorials.

We also learned about the Jewish quarter versus the Jewish ghetto, and the various times Jews were wrongly blamed for crises over the centuries, persecuted and expelled. We learned that people destroyed Jewish cemeteries and saw the gravestones used as trophy architecture. Our tour included Emilie and Oskar Schindler’s home in Regensburg.

TRIP TIP

| To arrange your own walking tour of the historic Jewish Quarter in Regensburg, you can reach Sylvia Seifert, our guide, at Shalom in Regensburg. |

It was a cold, gray, impactful morning. After a warmup in a coffee shop, we ventured back out into the UNESCO World Heritage old town We saw weddings in the square and German-made Christmas ornaments by the truckload and indulged in some retail therapy, as it was our final day. 

Of course we *had* to have sausage and (for me) a beer at Historische Wurestkuche, the Regensburg kitchen serving the workers who constructed the 12th century Stone Bridge and the oldest sausage kitchen in the world. It hasn’t changed a bit, judging from our peek inside! We also stumbled upon the centuries-old abbey … and a bit of a creepy saint altar within … before walking back to the boat.

Our final dinner on the ship was magnificent. There was entertainment afterward, but we opted to return to our room and pack. Even though our departure from Munich (about 1.5 hours away) wasn’t until 1:30, Viking wanted our luggage in the hall at 5:30 a.m. and us on the bus at 6 a.m. with others who were leaving around the same time. In fact, there were departures scheduled as early as 2:30 a.m. If you book your airfare with Viking, there’s no way around this. At the same time, it was very nice to have included transportation, and our wait in Munich wasn’t onerous. I dozed on the bus. 

Viking River Cruise FAQs

Do you have to dress for dinner?

No. You can if you want to; some people put on a more dressy top and jewelry before dinner, and some people came in casual dress. And some people wore the same jeans they’d had on all day.

Do you have to sit with the same people at dinner every day?

No, you’re free to move about the cabin. Mom and I sat with several wildly different groups of people, only similar in their charming conversation skills and warmth.

Can you store your luggage in your room?

Yes, I had a full-sized suitcase clocking in just under 50 pounds, plus a large carry-on, and I was able to stash both underneath my bed.

Do you have to share a bed?

No. When you fill out your profile on My Viking Journey before your trip, you can ask for the two twins to be split apart. It’s tight, but doable.

Do you need a converter and adapter for the outlets?

On our ship, you didn’t have to have them, but it would be helpful. There are several 110-volt plugs in the room. But if you have multiple devices, they’ll be used up in a heartbeat. I alternated charging my watch and my phone with the 110-volt plug using a regular Apple block, or with the one USB charger built into the wall. I brought an Apple Europe adapter for my laptop, and I brought the European hair dryer that I purchased in Milan several years ago, because the last time I traveled overseas with my American hair dryer, it conked out. I used the European plugs for those.

Is it an older crowd?

I’d peg the average at 70 on our Viking River Cruise, but that’s not to say that there aren’t any much younger people. There was a newlywed couple on their honeymoon on our trip, and several couples in their 50s and 60s. Children aren’t permitted on Viking River Cruises. There’s no pool, no casino, no disco, no umbrella drinks, no photography sales, no thumping late-night bass on their river cruises. The joy of this crowd, I discovered, is that they’re avid lifelong travelers — not vacationers. They’re curious and informed and gentle and friendly. 

Is it all-inclusive?

It can be. The price of our Viking River Cruise, the Romantic Danube in early October 2022, was $2,499. That included our airfare, thanks to a special promotion that comes along fairly regularly. For that price, we had transfers to and from the airport; daily walking tours of each new city; all of our meals plus snacks; beer and wine at meals; and travel support. 

Our total trip clocked in at just under $2,949 per person for the fully refundable (for any reason) Allianz travel insurance provided by Viking; prepaid gratuities for the ship staff (though not bus drivers and tour guides); and the Silver Spirits package, which upgraded our booze (embedded in the free airfare promotion so we couldn’t peel it off). Our trip was six full days of tours and travel, plus the day before and the day after to and from the airport.

Any other tips?

• You can extend your trip through Viking before or after your cruise by a few days and see some other cities. We had so many delays on the way to Budapest that we wished we had arrived a day or two early. This also would have alleviated some jet lag.
• Bring Advil PM, an eye mask and ear buds. There’s ship noise, there are early tours and there’s jet lag. I barely slept. I came home in desperate need of a solid eight hours (plus a facial scrub and a food-and-alcohol detox).
• Bring tennis shoes. Though there’s no gym, the walking track on the open-air deck is an awesome way to get in some miles. You can make your own workout from there: push-ups, jumping jacks, triceps dips, walking lunges, etc.
• Don’t count on the wifi. This was the most disappointing surprise of the trip. I don’t usually travel with a sim card or any other means of accessing wifi or cell service, and I thought that the ship would mean better connectivity than I usually enjoy. I’m glad I’d arranged to be free of my social media duties during my trip.
• Many people book second, third and more trips on Viking. Not only are their Viking River Cruises wildly popular, but their Ocean Cruises and their new Expedition Cruises draw repeat guests. To a person, the people with whom I spoke said that every experience they’ve had was exceptional. Service wins top remarks, followed by the food and the boats, as well as the excursions. Honestly, I agree. And I don’t get paid a dime to say that. They seem to treat their staff really well too. Our program director, a veteran of other ocean lines, had only worked for Viking for a week when the pandemic shut down cruising; the company looked after her, as she said, through the duration of the pandemic. 
• Go to the port talks. Each night, they’ll prep you for the following day’s destination with a port talk, explaining times, procedures and sights to see in the next city. There’s also detailed information in the Viking Daily, a printed document that arrives in your room during dinner each night. 

While it never felt like a hard sell, Viking arms you with literature about their other cruise offerings before you go home, and provides a limited-time discount on future trips. They didn’t need to sell me at all; the experience itself was enough to convince me that I should take another trip whenever I have the time and money again. (When my ship comes in, so to speak.) Apparently I’m not the only one: In 2022, Viking was voted the number one ocean line and the number one river line in the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Awards for the second year in a row, as well as number one for both rivers and oceans by Travel + Leisure.

I don’t have experience with other river cruise providers, but I can say that my first experience with Viking made me a fan of the mode of travel. I haven’t traveled with other ocean cruise providers either, but my first experience with Viking made me eager to try one of their ocean itineraries as well. I have my eye on the 33-day cruise to Hawaii and Polynesia (Tahiti!). And the 138-day world cruise is an absolute dream. I need to start playing the lottery. 

I won’t forgo my other means of travel. But this was a bit of luxury that I’d love to do again.

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The clothes you choose for a trip aren’t only about looking good … though we have nothing against cute. But when you’re traveling, functionality, comfort and the culture in your destination play a part in what you pack as well. 

You don’t have to spend a fortune on “travel” clothes. The items in your everyday wardrobe can serve as travel clothes — you may simply need to add a few pieces for specific activities such as surfing or hiking. 

Beyond creating a capsule wardrobe — sticking to a single palette so that you can mix and match — we’d like to humbly suggest these particular travel clothes that we always make room for in our bags. Here’s the Travel Gear We Love: Clothing Edition. 

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The travel clothes you choose should be comfortable, easy to wash and versatile.

HEATHER

I used to primarily pack carry-on only, and often I still do. It really depends on where I am going and what I am doing, regardless, I try to pack as light as I can! I also try to purchase items I can wear on a lot of different types of trips. I choose quality items that will hold up over time so I can use them trip after trip. Most of my “travel clothes” are my regular clothes with some quick dry, sink-washable items thrown in when necessary. That being said, below are my tried and true foundational elements.

Shoes

I can not overstate this: finding good travel shoes is so important. You will most likely be putting a lot of miles on them in a short amount of time. Even in the ultra-fashionable city of Paris, comfortable shoes were king. You’ll always see the women strutting down the street in stilettos, and they look good doing it! But I’m 54 and my feet are too, so cute and comfortable are very important to me.

Cariuma Shoes

I learned about Cariuma from Julianne and I love them! White sneakers are a popular shoe right now, which makes the white-on-white leather Salvas an excellent choice. The shoe cleans up nicely, is super comfortable, and even after two years of wear, they still look brand new. I love the Pantone colors that Cariuma has and purchased the white canvas pair, with Viva Magenta accents for an upcoming trip to Spain. I have arthritis in my feet, and after five or six miles, I usually start to experience foot pain in even my most trusted shoes. I purchased my Salvas two years ago before a trip to Lisbon. I walked 52 miles in six days in these brand-new just-out-of-the-box shoes, and my feet felt great! These are a staple on most of my trips.

Toms

I love heels, but my feet no longer love them. However, I have found a heeled sandal I can still wear that is comfortable enough to walk a fair bit in. It’s the Toms Majorca. I tromped around Greenwich Village in these when I visited NYC. They have a sturdy heel that comes in classic, rope or cork for various settings. I love the classic and they come out with different fabrics every so often. I’m ordering the cork version for my Spain trip this fall because I’ll be visiting the Island of Majorca and it seems fitting!

Birkenstocks

I was surprised a few years ago when I started seeing Birkenstocks everywhere. They have elevated the brand, and I can’t deny the quality and comfort of a good pair of Birks. I like the multi-strap Mayari and find them incredibly versatile and comfortable for many types of travel.

Jackets and Coats

Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Hooded Down Jacket

If I’m traveling and it’s dipping below 50 degrees F, I’m packing this jacket. It’s so lightweight it feels like you’re wearing nothing, but you’re warm. I love having a hood in case it rains. It’s water repellent, which means you’ll be fine in light rain, and OK in a heavy one until you can get to shelter. I layer it over a long-sleeve shirt and hoodie if it’s colder but in most cases, this will suffice. I wear it all through our very cold Indiana winters, down to zero degrees.

The best part? It will literally fit in the water bottle pouch on my backpack. It packs down THAT SMALL. It’s a very affordable price point, and Eddie Bauer has a great return policy. 

Cotopaxi Windbreaker

The Cotopaxi Teca Half Zip Windbreaker packs down into its own pocket, making it a very easy-to-pack add-on. If I am going to be biking, hiking, sailing or kayaking, I grab this baby. It’s a great middle layer if it’s on the brisk side or a great top layer to cut the wind. Cotopaxi is a company with a wonderful mission; I love supporting them. 

Cotopaxi Fuego

I snagged the Fuego on a big-time end-of-season clearance sale, and I love, love, love it. Not only are the colors super fun I love that it packs down really small in it’s own zipped pocket but I love the interior layout. With interior pockets on both sides as well as zipped exterior pockets it’s the perfect travel coat. Super warm, cozy, and colorful, what more can you ask for?

Socks

Comrad Compression Socks

Simply the cutest compression socks you will find. Wearing compression socks on long-haul flights is important. I don’t care if you’re 20 or 100, the health benefits outweigh the slight irritation. I have the knee-high pink and blue striped ones. I love them. I’ve had them for 5 years and only wear them on long flights but they still look like brand new.

Why compression socks? On travel days that involve sitting for long periods of time, wearing compression socks reduces the side effects of edema. Compression socks work their magic by gently squeezing the legs to increase blood flow from your legs and feet back toward your heart. Once the blood starts to move, swelling subsides. You’ll also lower the risk of developing blood clots that can lead to deep vein thrombosis. Check out our post on surviving long flights for more tips.

Bombas Socks

I love Bombas. I bought a four-pack four or five years ago, and they still feel like new socks. Seriously, I love them. I have them in ankle, quarter and calf lengths. I take six pairs regardless of the length of the trip and wash them in the sink when I need to. Bombas donates a pair of socks for every purchase. They are not cheap, but they will last for a long time. I buy them for everyone I know — I love them that much.

Pants

AE Relaxed Mom Jogger 

I’m not a big fan of recommending “travel clothes,” because, for the most part, I’m traveling in clothes I wear at home. And these are no exception, but they are great for travel, and here’s why: elastic waist, so many pockets, soft and thin enough to be comfy and flattering but structured enough to not look sloppy. Pair with sneakers, flats or birks. Versatile. I have two pairs, black and olive. 

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JULIANNE

I have a few considerations for my must-have travel clothes list. One: I need certain things (compression socks, elastic waistbands) to keep me healthy and able. Two: I need certain things for certain kinds of trips — European city versus backpacking through the Upper Peninsula, for example. That being said, my favorite travel clothes are largely socks and shoes.

Tara M Boots from The Walking Company

Sadly, my gray and black pairs aren’t on The Walking Company’s website any more. But you can find lots of great pairs of basic “European city” boots by other brands in The Walking Company’s stores and on their website. Mine are your classic lug heel that lace up with a side zipper — not unlike Doc Martens in appearance. I’ve become a big fan of products from both The Walking Company and Aerosoles for heavy-duty walking in urban settings — both typically have great arch support.

Allbirds Tree Breezers

I don’t wear flats very often. Since I started working from home exclusively, I like a really comfortable chunky heel, or I live in tennis shoes. But when I need to split the difference and walk a lot, these are a go-to. They’re called Tree Breezers, but they feel like clouds. No slipping on my heel or very narrow feet, no pinching my long toes, no weird creases. And they’re sustainably made. I threw mine in the washing machine after road-testing them in Manhattan, and they washed beautifully. 

Salomon Women’s Hiking Boots

I put a lot of miles on my hiking boots in some rugged terrain — I live in Colorado, after all. But I first bought these when I lived in Indiana for a six-day backpacking trip through the Upper Peninsula, my first big hiking adventure of any kind. Nothing like starting off with a 42-mile trek carrying 35-plus pounds on your back. These allowed room for my feet to swell, and I didn’t lose any toenails. They have high ankle coverage for stability on uneven, rocky surfaces or when carrying a load, and they’re waterproof for stream crossings.

If I’m flying for a hiking adventure, I’ll usually just wear them on the airplane, because they’re too big to pack. (And I have Global Entry, so I don’t have to take off my shoes in security.) 

Sketchers Air-Cool Memory Foam Slip-ons

I first bought Aerosoles in Times Square, when I wore out the shoes that I had been wearing to walk all over the Big Apple. And I first bought these black Sketchers in Las Vegas, when I decided it would be a good idea to walk every inch of the Strip and more in a single day and nearly hobbled myself. They’ve become my go-to for any journey (unless I’m wearing my hiking boots) because they’re soft and comfortable, cool, let my feet swell, and slip off easily on an airplane or in the car. These also go through the washing machine amazingly well.

REI Midweight Wool Hiking Socks

Believe it or not, of all the fancy, technical hiking socks out there, I love the basic, cheapest REI midweight wool hiking socks. They’re so thick and cozy. They provide amazing cushioning not only under my Salomons but also under my Tara M boots, because my ankles are bony, and zip-up boots always gap. They’re wool, which means they wick moisture and keep your feet healthy. They’re like a warm hug for your feet.

Black Joggers

I’m still seeking a pair that doesn’t make my skinny butt look flat and dumpy. Lululemon’s Ready to Rulu joggers are the best so far. You can’t beat a pair of soft pants with an elastic waistband (crucial for someone with IBS and dangerous swelling of the extremities when sitting or flying). Even better, they have pockets, super handy when you’re juggling things as you travel. And they’re basic enough to dress up or down — essential when it comes to travel clothes.

Cariuma No-Show Socks

Don’t get me wrong — I love Cariuma shoes, too. They look super cool and are made even better. They have a skater pedigree, so they’re sturdy…but they’re also sustainable, constructed of cork and recycled materials. And the company is a B Corp, with all the good that comes from that. But the socks that Cariuma makes to go under their shoes are the real deal. They actually don’t get sucked into your shoes no matter how much walking you do, and they hide under almost anything. Good no-show socks have been my holy grail, and I’ve found them. Right now you have to buy the shoes to order the socks, but I’m counting on this to change soon.

As a fallback, check out ZeroSock’s Women’s Bamboo Super Low Invisible Socks. They don’t suck, literally, no matter how much walking I do. And when I travel, I need travel clothes that can withstand walks.

Patagonia Jacket

I had a really hard time writing my section of this blog, because all of my travel clothes are so old that they doesn’t show up on websites anymore. Yet my gear is still going strong, which is why I love it so much! Take my midweight blue Patagonia jacket. I bought it from REI when I bought my Salomon boots and everything else I needed for that 2015 backpacking trip, under the advice of some super helpful outdoorsy dudes. 

(Seriously, if you need a lot of travel gear, go to REI. The people who work there are passionate and know their stuff. The return policy is phenomenal, as are the store’s environmental practices. And a co-op membership pays for itself in no time.) 

At the time that I bought this jacket, I knew nothing about Patagonia. But since then I’ve become a devotee — I’ve even read the founder’s book. I can’t love a brand more than I love Patagonia. (REI is a close second.) And this Patagonia jacket is my grab-and-go for just about anything outdoors. It’s a great weight for cool days, and it can go under a heavy coat or over a few layers with ease. It has pockets galore, all with zippers. It’s extremely washable, stuffable and smushable, and thin enough that I can tie it around my waist when I get too warm.

It will last forever; and if for some reason it doesn’t, Patagonia will repair it. I wish that all of my clothes were made by Patagonia, except that I have to come out of the mountains sometimes. 

Travel clothes can be hard to recommend, because what you pack for a trip is very dependent on your destination, activities, body type and personal style. But there are a few pieces we love that go the extra mile. In fact, they’re so helpful that they go nearly all of the extra miles with us. 

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_{This post likely contains affiliate links. If you shop or make a reservation through these links, we may make a small commission (for which we are very grateful!) at no extra cost to you. Not all links are affiliates, and we only suggest products and places that we have experienced.}

_{We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.}

_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}

Until a few years ago, I never even packed a daypack for hikes. I live in Indiana, on the north end, where it’s pretty flat. 

I’ve taken a lot of day hikes armed with nothing more than a water bottle and good intentions. 

But with knowledge comes responsibility, and when I started traveling more and working hiking into some of my trips, I realized I was quite unprepared for even a slight inconvenience, let alone an emergency. 

Skip to the bottom for the downloadable checklist and video!

When I read Julianne’s Day Hiking Essentials list, I knew I needed to do better. That being said, Julianne is a much more adventurous hiker than I am, so I scaled my list back to be appropriate for my hiking type. I highly recommend reading Julianne’s other pieces on the outdoors, such as The Ten Essentials for Hiking and 8 Surprising Sunsmart Tips.

This day hiking checklist for beginners is appropriate for a beginner or intermediate hiker doing a 1-5 mile hike, presumably on a well-trafficked and well-marked trail. I would use this list for up to 8 miles of hiking, depending on the terrain, the weather, and the altitude.  

There are a lot of reasons to be well prepared, but I’ll give you two:

1. You want to end a hike alive. That sounds dramatic, but people die hiking through miscalculation, recklessness, or accidents. 
2. Not being prepared can put other hikers, or rescue personnel, many of whom are volunteers, at risk. 

With that, let’s get into it! 

Heather’s Day Hiking Checklist for Beginners

Essential Hiking Gear

Daypack – I use the Eddie Bower Stowaway. It’s inexpensive, well-made=, and has served me well on multiple trips. It packs into its own pocket, making it very packable to take along, and holds plenty of gear when unfolded. Made with rip-stop fabric with lots of excellent features. Repels water (not waterproof), lightly padded straps, and at a $30-$40 pricepoint (often less!) it’s an affordable daypack for the beginning hiker. 

Hiking boots – My hiking boots were not pricey, and they work just fine for the type of hiking I do. They are by Columbia, and I bought the cheapest ones I could find. They are not pretty or fancy but have good ankle support and tread. Make sure you buy the right size. If you are between sizes, size up. You want about a finger’s width between your toes and the end of the boot. Your feet will swell, and when going downhill, your toes will meet the front of the boot repeatedly. Mine are water resistant and do fine in damp, muddy conditions–  including light rain. They are not fully waterproof. Getting fitted for hiking boots is greatly encouraged. 

Waterbottle or Water Bladder

Bonus items: 

Trekking poles – Trekking poles aren’t just for those of us over 50! They are helpful for anyone as they provide stabilization, improve efficiency and take some pressure off your legs, specifically your knees and ankles. 

Winter traction gear – If you are hiking in winter, ice spikes strap onto your boots and provide amazing stability. 

Clothing for Hiking

You do not have to have a bunch of technical gear, and you don’t have to spend a fortune, either. 

Wool Socks – Wool socks that fit well (not too big!) are imperative. Wool will wick the moisture away from your feet, making you much less likely to blister. I like Bombas brand. Take an extra pair in your day-pack in case your feet get soaked. While your boots might still be wet, a dry pair of socks will take some time until the end of your hike. 

Clothing – Moisture-wicking clothes in layers and quick dry fabrics are your best bet. 

Wool is a great moisture-wicking fabric but tends to dry slower than synthetic fabrics. 

I like a good wool tank top, topped with a lightweight jacket. If it’s going to be cooler, I’ll also pack a fleece. I always pack my Coto-Paxi wind jacket. It’s lightweight and packs up super small. I have a pair of inexpensive cargo-style joggers from Target (quick dry) that I typically use on my hikes unless I wear shorts. 

Bonus tip: Used gear

I scour my local thrift stores for brands like The North Face and Patagonia, whose gear is a bit outside my price point but lasts a long time.  Many brands now sell used gear on their own sites as part of their sustainability efforts, so be sure to check your favorite brand websites to see if they have used items. Check out The Northface Renewed or Patagonia Worn Wear. There are also sites specific to used outdoor gear, like Out and Back Outdoor and Gear Trade.

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Now that you are dressed and ready to go, you need to make sure you are packing your day-pack appropriately. While you can scale up or down, the list below will keep you covered, literally, in most emergencies.

What to put in your pack – Dayhiking Checklist for Beginners

Emergency items:

Even on a short to medium hike, accidents can happen. It’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Bumps, scrapes, bug bites, even a twisted ankle  – This list has you covered.

I put these first five items in a snack-size zip-lock baggie. I keep one set in my regular travel bag too.

• Gauze
• Bandaids
• Anti-bacterial ointment
• Tweezers
• Alcohol pads 

• Ace Bandage – 2” wrap – If you twist an ankle, which is really easy to do, this will help you get back to the car.
• Blister care pack
• Bandanna – great to cover your hair to keep ticks off but can also be used in an emergency as a tourniquet or other emergency bandage.
• Bivy – I had NO idea what a bivy was until I met Julianne. They can be used for cowboy camping (no tent) as an extra layer around your sleeping bag but an emergency bivvy is designed to keep you warm/dry/protected should you find yourself in an extreme element unprepared. (snow, rain, heat)

Protection items:

• Sunblock
• Bug spray 
• Biodegradable wipes – if nature calls
• Chapstick with SPF
• Paper bag for waste – You need to take your bathroom tissue or wipes with you, don’t leave it in nature
• Hat – Sun, baseball, knit cap – Whatever fits your situation
• Bear Spray – If hiking in Bear country 
• Bear Bell – Making noise on the trail is the best way to alert wildlife in the area; they will avoid you if they can

Bonus item: Take a spare pair if you wear contacts or glasses. If you jump into a waterfall and lose your glasses or contacts, it’ll be a real bummer (and it happens all the time!)

Navigation and Safety:

Flashlight – make sure you have fresh batteries

• Duct tape 
• Notebook and pen
• Backup ID – I carry a spare driver’s license everywhere I go. I get a ton of questions about this. I never turn in old IDs. I “lose them, ” take all my paperwork, and pay a little more for a “lost” ID vs. a renewal.
• Multitool
• Headlamp
• Lighter
• Matches
• Compass
• Paper Map – You can usually get one from the welcome center
• Download trails in All Trails Pro

Bonus item: 

If you are hiking in really remote areas or off-trail hiking, a Satellite GPS is really important

Food and Drink:

Note: Pack out everything, including bread crusts, apple cores, banana peels etc. Even if it is compostable, it’s not necessarily native; pack it out.  Do not feed animals. Even the super cute chipmunks who will literally eat out of your hand (OMG – yes, they are so cute) – DON’T FEED THEM. Leave no trace!

Ideas for easy, packable snacks for your day hike:

• Protein bars 
• Nuts/trail mix
• Olives
• Tuna packets
• Apples
• Crackers

For those new to hiking or those who have spent many hours on the trail, having a day hiking checklist for beginners is a great way to help ensure your day spent in nature ends with a tired body but a safe, happy heart.

The clothes you choose for a trip aren’t only about looking good … though we have nothing against cute. But when you’re traveling, functionality, comfort and the culture in your destination play a part in what you pack as well. 

You don’t have to spend a fortune on “travel” clothes. The items in your everyday wardrobe can serve as travel clothes — you may simply need to add a few pieces for specific activities such as surfing or hiking. 

Beyond creating a capsule wardrobe — sticking to a single palette so that you can mix and match — we’d like to humbly suggest these particular travel clothes that we always make room for in our bags. Here’s the Travel Gear We Love: Clothing Edition. 

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The travel clothes you choose should be comfortable, easy to wash and versatile.

HEATHER

I used to primarily pack carry-on only, and often I still do. It really depends on where I am going and what I am doing, regardless, I try to pack as light as I can! I also try to purchase items I can wear on a lot of different types of trips. I choose quality items that will hold up over time so I can use them trip after trip. Most of my “travel clothes” are my regular clothes with some quick dry, sink-washable items thrown in when necessary. That being said, below are my tried and true foundational elements.

Shoes

I can not overstate this: finding good travel shoes is so important. You will most likely be putting a lot of miles on them in a short amount of time. Even in the ultra-fashionable city of Paris, comfortable shoes were king. You’ll always see the women strutting down the street in stilettos, and they look good doing it! But I’m 54 and my feet are too, so cute and comfortable are very important to me.

Cariuma Shoes

I learned about Cariuma from Julianne and I love them! White sneakers are a popular shoe right now, which makes the white-on-white leather Salvas an excellent choice. The shoe cleans up nicely, is super comfortable, and even after two years of wear, they still look brand new. I love the Pantone colors that Cariuma has and purchased the white canvas pair, with Viva Magenta accents for an upcoming trip to Spain. I have arthritis in my feet, and after five or six miles, I usually start to experience foot pain in even my most trusted shoes. I purchased my Salvas two years ago before a trip to Lisbon. I walked 52 miles in six days in these brand-new just-out-of-the-box shoes, and my feet felt great! These are a staple on most of my trips.

Toms

I love heels, but my feet no longer love them. However, I have found a heeled sandal I can still wear that is comfortable enough to walk a fair bit in. It’s the Toms Majorca. I tromped around Greenwich Village in these when I visited NYC. They have a sturdy heel that comes in classic, rope or cork for various settings. I love the classic and they come out with different fabrics every so often. I’m ordering the cork version for my Spain trip this fall because I’ll be visiting the Island of Majorca and it seems fitting!

Birkenstocks

I was surprised a few years ago when I started seeing Birkenstocks everywhere. They have elevated the brand, and I can’t deny the quality and comfort of a good pair of Birks. I like the multi-strap Mayari and find them incredibly versatile and comfortable for many types of travel.

Jackets and Coats

Eddie Bauer Cirruslite Hooded Down Jacket

If I’m traveling and it’s dipping below 50 degrees F, I’m packing this jacket. It’s so lightweight it feels like you’re wearing nothing, but you’re warm. I love having a hood in case it rains. It’s water repellent, which means you’ll be fine in light rain, and OK in a heavy one until you can get to shelter. I layer it over a long-sleeve shirt and hoodie if it’s colder but in most cases, this will suffice. I wear it all through our very cold Indiana winters, down to zero degrees.

The best part? It will literally fit in the water bottle pouch on my backpack. It packs down THAT SMALL. It’s a very affordable price point, and Eddie Bauer has a great return policy. 

Cotopaxi Windbreaker

The Cotopaxi Teca Half Zip Windbreaker packs down into its own pocket, making it a very easy-to-pack add-on. If I am going to be biking, hiking, sailing or kayaking, I grab this baby. It’s a great middle layer if it’s on the brisk side or a great top layer to cut the wind. Cotopaxi is a company with a wonderful mission; I love supporting them. 

Cotopaxi Fuego

I snagged the Fuego on a big-time end-of-season clearance sale, and I love, love, love it. Not only are the colors super fun I love that it packs down really small in it’s own zipped pocket but I love the interior layout. With interior pockets on both sides as well as zipped exterior pockets it’s the perfect travel coat. Super warm, cozy, and colorful, what more can you ask for?

Socks

Comrad Compression Socks

Simply the cutest compression socks you will find. Wearing compression socks on long-haul flights is important. I don’t care if you’re 20 or 100, the health benefits outweigh the slight irritation. I have the knee-high pink and blue striped ones. I love them. I’ve had them for 5 years and only wear them on long flights but they still look like brand new.

Why compression socks? On travel days that involve sitting for long periods of time, wearing compression socks reduces the side effects of edema. Compression socks work their magic by gently squeezing the legs to increase blood flow from your legs and feet back toward your heart. Once the blood starts to move, swelling subsides. You’ll also lower the risk of developing blood clots that can lead to deep vein thrombosis. Check out our post on surviving long flights for more tips.

Bombas Socks

I love Bombas. I bought a four-pack four or five years ago, and they still feel like new socks. Seriously, I love them. I have them in ankle, quarter and calf lengths. I take six pairs regardless of the length of the trip and wash them in the sink when I need to. Bombas donates a pair of socks for every purchase. They are not cheap, but they will last for a long time. I buy them for everyone I know — I love them that much.

Pants

AE Relaxed Mom Jogger 

I’m not a big fan of recommending “travel clothes,” because, for the most part, I’m traveling in clothes I wear at home. And these are no exception, but they are great for travel, and here’s why: elastic waist, so many pockets, soft and thin enough to be comfy and flattering but structured enough to not look sloppy. Pair with sneakers, flats or birks. Versatile. I have two pairs, black and olive. 

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JULIANNE

I have a few considerations for my must-have travel clothes list. One: I need certain things (compression socks, elastic waistbands) to keep me healthy and able. Two: I need certain things for certain kinds of trips — European city versus backpacking through the Upper Peninsula, for example. That being said, my favorite travel clothes are largely socks and shoes.

Tara M Boots from The Walking Company

Sadly, my gray and black pairs aren’t on The Walking Company’s website any more. But you can find lots of great pairs of basic “European city” boots by other brands in The Walking Company’s stores and on their website. Mine are your classic lug heel that lace up with a side zipper — not unlike Doc Martens in appearance. I’ve become a big fan of products from both The Walking Company and Aerosoles for heavy-duty walking in urban settings — both typically have great arch support.

Allbirds Tree Breezers

I don’t wear flats very often. Since I started working from home exclusively, I like a really comfortable chunky heel, or I live in tennis shoes. But when I need to split the difference and walk a lot, these are a go-to. They’re called Tree Breezers, but they feel like clouds. No slipping on my heel or very narrow feet, no pinching my long toes, no weird creases. And they’re sustainably made. I threw mine in the washing machine after road-testing them in Manhattan, and they washed beautifully. 

Salomon Women’s Hiking Boots

I put a lot of miles on my hiking boots in some rugged terrain — I live in Colorado, after all. But I first bought these when I lived in Indiana for a six-day backpacking trip through the Upper Peninsula, my first big hiking adventure of any kind. Nothing like starting off with a 42-mile trek carrying 35-plus pounds on your back. These allowed room for my feet to swell, and I didn’t lose any toenails. They have high ankle coverage for stability on uneven, rocky surfaces or when carrying a load, and they’re waterproof for stream crossings.

If I’m flying for a hiking adventure, I’ll usually just wear them on the airplane, because they’re too big to pack. (And I have Global Entry, so I don’t have to take off my shoes in security.) 

Sketchers Air-Cool Memory Foam Slip-ons

I first bought Aerosoles in Times Square, when I wore out the shoes that I had been wearing to walk all over the Big Apple. And I first bought these black Sketchers in Las Vegas, when I decided it would be a good idea to walk every inch of the Strip and more in a single day and nearly hobbled myself. They’ve become my go-to for any journey (unless I’m wearing my hiking boots) because they’re soft and comfortable, cool, let my feet swell, and slip off easily on an airplane or in the car. These also go through the washing machine amazingly well.

REI Midweight Wool Hiking Socks

Believe it or not, of all the fancy, technical hiking socks out there, I love the basic, cheapest REI midweight wool hiking socks. They’re so thick and cozy. They provide amazing cushioning not only under my Salomons but also under my Tara M boots, because my ankles are bony, and zip-up boots always gap. They’re wool, which means they wick moisture and keep your feet healthy. They’re like a warm hug for your feet.

Black Joggers

I’m still seeking a pair that doesn’t make my skinny butt look flat and dumpy. Lululemon’s Ready to Rulu joggers are the best so far. You can’t beat a pair of soft pants with an elastic waistband (crucial for someone with IBS and dangerous swelling of the extremities when sitting or flying). Even better, they have pockets, super handy when you’re juggling things as you travel. And they’re basic enough to dress up or down — essential when it comes to travel clothes.

Cariuma No-Show Socks

Don’t get me wrong — I love Cariuma shoes, too. They look super cool and are made even better. They have a skater pedigree, so they’re sturdy…but they’re also sustainable, constructed of cork and recycled materials. And the company is a B Corp, with all the good that comes from that. But the socks that Cariuma makes to go under their shoes are the real deal. They actually don’t get sucked into your shoes no matter how much walking you do, and they hide under almost anything. Good no-show socks have been my holy grail, and I’ve found them. Right now you have to buy the shoes to order the socks, but I’m counting on this to change soon.

As a fallback, check out ZeroSock’s Women’s Bamboo Super Low Invisible Socks. They don’t suck, literally, no matter how much walking I do. And when I travel, I need travel clothes that can withstand walks.

Patagonia Jacket

I had a really hard time writing my section of this blog, because all of my travel clothes are so old that they doesn’t show up on websites anymore. Yet my gear is still going strong, which is why I love it so much! Take my midweight blue Patagonia jacket. I bought it from REI when I bought my Salomon boots and everything else I needed for that 2015 backpacking trip, under the advice of some super helpful outdoorsy dudes. 

(Seriously, if you need a lot of travel gear, go to REI. The people who work there are passionate and know their stuff. The return policy is phenomenal, as are the store’s environmental practices. And a co-op membership pays for itself in no time.) 

At the time that I bought this jacket, I knew nothing about Patagonia. But since then I’ve become a devotee — I’ve even read the founder’s book. I can’t love a brand more than I love Patagonia. (REI is a close second.) And this Patagonia jacket is my grab-and-go for just about anything outdoors. It’s a great weight for cool days, and it can go under a heavy coat or over a few layers with ease. It has pockets galore, all with zippers. It’s extremely washable, stuffable and smushable, and thin enough that I can tie it around my waist when I get too warm.

It will last forever; and if for some reason it doesn’t, Patagonia will repair it. I wish that all of my clothes were made by Patagonia, except that I have to come out of the mountains sometimes. 

Travel clothes can be hard to recommend, because what you pack for a trip is very dependent on your destination, activities, body type and personal style. But there are a few pieces we love that go the extra mile. In fact, they’re so helpful that they go nearly all of the extra miles with us. 

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_{This post likely contains affiliate links. If you shop or make a reservation through these links, we may make a small commission (for which we are very grateful!) at no extra cost to you. Not all links are affiliates, and we only suggest products and places that we have experienced.}

_{We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.}

_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}

I am a planner. I like to find ways to make my trips run smoothly. I travel a lot, but I still get anxious when I head out on a trip. It’s who I am. Are you are a person who likes to be prepared? If so this is an excellent list of travel apps for you! We have a whole section dedicated to travel safety and one to travel planning; be sure to check them out!

Julianne and I have hundreds of apps on our phones. Not all are travel apps, but a lot are. I have universal travel apps and country-specific travel apps. Below are several smart travel apps to help you have a safe and easy trip!

Note: When I have an upcoming trip, I move all of the travel apps for that trip to one folder on my phone’s home screen so everything is easily accessible in one spot!

The travel apps recommended below are suitable for all types of trips, but a few of the apps are specific for United States residents preparing to travel abroad. I don’t care if you are flying to Jamaica or Japan. This list is helpful for every country. Let’s go!

1. Smart Traveler App: This travel app by the US Department of State is the mobile version of the website by the same name that we wrote about when recommending that you register your trip with the State Department. Suppose there is a natural disaster, global pandemic, civil unrest or other cause for alarm in your travel area. In that case, the State Department will send you a message and provide emergency numbers and information. They can also help get you home if need be! The main reason I like the app is that it is much easier to navigate than the website. Outside of registering my trip, which you should totally do, I use it to review local laws and customs and see if there are unusual concerns as a woman traveling solo. You can also see if there are particular vaccines you need for the area you are traveling to. It also provides the consulate, embassy and local emergency numbers, all at my fingertips, with minimal navigation. This is the number one app you should download. And, of course, set up your account and register your trip!
2. Google Translate: There are so many great features to Google Translate. Does it work perfectly? No. But it gets me a lot further in a conversation than I can on my own. You can translate a menu using the camera feature, which sometimes produces hilarious results but gives me the gist of the meal. Trying to have a conversation? There is a feature that allows two people to speak back and forth while the app translates what you say into your two different languages. You can even save phrases you will use frequently for easy reference — and it will speak them for you so you can practice! 
3. Airalo: Airalo is an eSim carrier connecting customers with local mobile services in 130 countries. If your phone is eSim enabled, switching to a local carrier in another country is easy. You can buy local, regional or global plans that are more affordable than your carrier will charge for international calls and data. The only exception might be GoogleFi, which I used for a while and didn’t love. I’ve used Airalo for two trips now, Budapest and Ecuador. Make sure you install the eSim before you go, then when you land, turn on your eSim line, then turn your phone on and off, and you should be all set up!
4. Citymapper travel app: I’ll admit, it took me a while to get on board with Citymapper. I’ve been a Google Maps person for a long time, but it has many great features that feel superior to Google Maps. The number one reason I like Citymapper is that the modes of transport are very clear. On Google Maps, I sometimes can’t tell if it’s trying to put me on a bus or a train (subway, metro, L, etc.), and if I am in a new city, sometimes it is just clunky for me to figure out. I frequently talk about how frustrating I find public transportation in some cities. In Citymapper, I can see all of the possible transport opinions, or if I want to pick a particular mode of transportation, I can simply click on it and see only that option. It has audio navigation for walking directions, which I really like as I usually keep one earbud in when I’m in a foreign city so I can keep my phone in my pocket or at least not be gawking at it while I try to navigate. You can also save the places you have planned to visit and set them in your favorites for that city. This allows you to find them with the tap of a button. You can have an ad-free experience for just $9.99 per year. 

5. Bolt app: Bolt is a ride-share company similar to Uber or Lyft. It is widely used in many European countries. Always see what ride shares are available, download the appropriate travel app for your trip and set up your account.

6. Nord VPN: Protecting sensitive information is always a priority, and it’s even more critical when traveling and using public wifi. We wrote about why you need a VPN at home and abroad, and having it on your phone is just smart. Remember that occasionally, it can keep you from adequately using things like Google Maps or some banking applications, so make sure all of your permissions are set up or turn it off briefly if you have issues. This is one of the best travel apps you can use to protect your information.

7. Mobile Passport Control: If you DO NOT have Global Entry, download Mobile Passport Control. When you return to the U.S., you must go through customs at the first U.S. airport you land in, which might be your final destination or a connecting flight to your home airport. Some major airports now have three paths through customs. Global Entry is the fastest, and you have to apply and pay for a Global Entry card and have that card with you to go through Global Entry. Option two: You can submit your information in the Mobile Passport Control app once you have landed at the airport. This allows you to go through the digital passport control line, which tends to be faster than the regular line. As an example, when my daughter and I returned from a trip to Portugal via O’Hare Airport, I was through Global Entry in five minutes, and she was in the regular customs line for over two hours. Mobile passport splits that difference. 

8. Xe Currency Converter: Unless you are a math wiz, keeping track of conversion rates when shopping in a foreign country can be confusing. Having a currency converter travel app is so helpful. If I’m at a restaurant and trying to figure out the tip or buying groceries at the bodega around the corner, I like to know what I’m spending. I travel on a budget! Just pop in the amount, and it will instantly tell you how much it will cost you in USD. The app is updated every few minutes, and you can use it when you are offline. 

9. WhatsApp: WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows users to send text messages and make voice and video calls. WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in the world and offers end-to-end encryption for secure communication. You will find it commonly used by tour guides, personal drivers, taxis and even some hotels in many countries. This also allows you to call or text with family and friends back home over wifi and avoid using your data plan.

These travel apps should be downloaded based on what company you are using. Such as the specific airline you are flying, the local transportation, your personal bank etc.

10. Airline Apps: This applies to domestic travel too, but when traveling abroad, you may be flying partner airlines of the ones you booked with. For instance, I am flying United Airlines, Swiss Air and Brussels Airlines on my upcoming trip. I have set up accounts with all three (get those miles!) and downloaded the apps. I can check in for my flights, download my boarding pass, check flight information and more. 
11. Accommodation Apps: Hotel, Airbnb, bed and breakfast, hostel or wherever you stay — download the app and set up an account. It’s much easier to check on your booking and sometimes even check into your hotel via the app. Some hotels also have digital keys, meaning you can go straight to your room when you arrive. 
12. Public Transportation App: Not every city will have public transportation; only some cities will have an app even if they do, but look to see before you go. There are often deals for tourists or short-term passes that provide unlimited rides for a week, half a month, or longer. If there is an app, set up an account, connect your preferred travel credit card, and you will be all set to hop on the first bus, train, metro or boat you come across! Every city is different and has different public transportation rules, but you will find you can use the same app for multiple kinds of transport. Many cities have incorporated apps to scan in and out of stations and on and off buses. It is so much easier than trying to navigate the ticket kiosks!
13. Tickets to events: I frequently book through Get Your Guide, Airbnb Experiences or Viator, and I have all these apps on my phone. For my upcoming trip, I downloaded jegy.hu, a Hungarian ticketing app that most of the experiences and tours I booked run through. All of my museum passes are in one spot on the app! 

14. Banking: While not necessarily a travel app, make sure you put your credit card and bank apps in the folder with your other travel apps. If you run into an issue, such as having your wallet stolen, you will want to be able to contact your bank quickly. Some countries have a universal pay app different from what you may use at home. Two examples are Simple Classic, a payment system in Hungary and AliPay, which is used widely throughout China. By having accounts set up, linked through my travel credit card, I can quickly pay for things like taxis, restaurant tabs and more, all through this app. Another banking tip: Make sure you have a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Capital One Venture and Chase Sapphire are both great starter cards for travel. I also have a checking account and debit card through Charles Schwab so I not only have no transaction fees on my ATM withdrawals, but I also get reimbursed for the ATM fees that are incurred. If you get a travel card, ensure you understand how to use the points. I have bought so many free flights with my credit card points! 
15. Travel Insurance App: I use Allianz, and their app is called Travel Smart. I keep it in my trip folder so it is easily accessible if I need it. You may say “I have a travel credit card; do I really need trip insurance?” The answer is yes. Take a moment to go read why and come right back. Now that you know why you should have it, download the app attached to your carrier and log in to see your insurance card. Now you’re set to go!

While you can travel without using technology, it provides ease, safety and convenience for me.  I travel with paper copies of everything and even keep records on a flash drive in my bag. (Julianne stores scans of hers in Dropbox.) I might be over-prepared, but I’d rather be over-prepared than panicked any day!

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_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}

Are you planning a trip to a high-altitude destination? While the stunning views and fresh mountain air can be exhilarating, taking some precautions is important to ensure a safe and healthy trip. Here are some tips to help you adjust to higher elevations and consider your health.

Unless you live in a high-altitude location, you are going to need to adjust to a high-altitude environment. I live in northern Indiana, where the elevation is a whopping 800 feet,and I had planned a trip to Quito, Ecuador, the world’s second-highest capital city! This destination is a popular spot for people heading to the Galapagos Islands, and many don’t consider the altitude adjustment when planning for this destination. I planned a week in Quito, and I’m glad I did; it allowed my body to adjust and I planned my days accordingly.

Please note that altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level. However, those of us over 50 want to be particularly careful about tracking our symptoms and seek medical care if necessary. That being said, these tips are for anyone, of any age, considering a trip to a high-altitude location. 

Tips for visiting a high-altitude destination

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is crucial when you’re at a high altitude. The air is drier, and you lose more fluids through respiration. To stay hydrated, drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you. When I was in Quito, I drank two full liters of water daily. I also took a box of Liquid IV and added one packet to a liter of water every day. One of the women staying at my hotel was so sick one morning that I gave her some of my Liquid IV, and she perked up like a water-deprived plant; she was severely dehydrated. 

Take It Slow

When you arrive at your destination, take it easy for the first day or two. Don’t overexert yourself; avoid strenuous activities like hiking or skiing until you’ve had time to adjust. My resting heart rate shot up 10 points the first few days I was at 9,000 feet. Over the course of the week, it gradually decreased. 

Eat Bananas!

I made sure to eat a banana every morning, and I even took banana chips with me. Potassium is supposed to help with altitude sickness. 

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

I still had my coffee every morning, but I did avoid alcohol until I felt like my body had adjusted. Hydration is the most important element in combating altitude sickness. Caffeine and alcohol will dehydrate you, so those should wait. 

Chamomile Tea

This tip came from the lovely woman at my hotel in Quito, Ecuador. She made me some chamomile tea to sip one afternoon when I had a particularly bad headache. Maybe simply being cared for made me feel better, but I swear it worked. 

Consider Medication

If you have a history of altitude sickness or other health conditions, talk to your doctor about medication options. Acetazolamide and dexamethasone are commonly used to prevent and treat altitude sickness.

Watch for Symptoms

Altitude sickness can manifest in various ways, including headache, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, take it seriously and seek medical attention if necessary. Hydration and rest go a long way, but seek a doctor if you are getting worse. Pain medication for headaches and some ginger lozenges for nausea can also help.

Take Vitamins

I take a regular set of supplements at home. I don’t always travel with them, but I take several with me when I travel to high-altitude environments. I really like AG1 Athletic Greens and take the travel packets. This gives me a power boost of vitamins first thing in the day. 

Eat Fresh

Eat fresh fruits and veggies as much as you can to keep your body nourished with water-dense foods that make you feel good. Heavy, fried foods are hard to process and put more strain on your system, which may already be struggling.

Rest

Keep your scheduled activities to a minimum to allow your body to rest and adjust. Climbing high and sleeping low is a hiking adage — see if you can find accommodations at a lower elevation than where you’ll be spending most of your time during the day. You might also consider adding a sleep aid to your packing list; even those not prone to sleep disruption may find themselves with insomnia.

Prepare to feel like a superhero when you return to a lower altitude!

Because the air is thinner at higher altitudes, there are fewer oxygen molecules per volume of air. This means your body produces more red blood cells. These extra blood cells stay in the body for up to 20 days. When I got to the Galapagos after a week in Quito at 9,350, I was practically running up volcanoes! 

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Julianne lives in Colorado and frequently encounters ill-equipped hikers. If you are heading to a high-altitude destination to hike, ski, or do other activities, you should keep some very specific things in mind. 

Julianne:

I live at altitude in Denver; the altitude of my home is 5,510 feet (high enough to change baking times and make products explode out of their packaging upon opening). I’m up higher on a regular basis to do my shopping, grab coffee or walk in the foothills. 

But even I feel the effects of altitude when I travel to the high country. We love to stay in Breckenridge, which sits at 9,600 feet. Leadville, with the highest elevation of any city in the country at 10,158 feet, is just 1.5 hours west; we stop there for a potty break and coffee whenever we’re driving to Salida or Crested Butte. 

And while I don’t notice the altitude when I’m hiking, I do when I sleep. I experience severe insomnia when we stay in Mount Crested Butte, which sits at an elevation of 9,498. I normally don’t sleep well anyway, but it’s much worse there. I also notice a low-grade headache. 

So you may add a sleep aid to your packing list. And consider these rules of thumb from mountain experts: Move higher 1,000 feet at a time. If you’re going up 2,000 feet, try to stay put for two days. 

Also, take it seriously. If you start to notice the signs of acute altitude sickness, DESCEND IMMEDIATELY. Don’t keep going higher. You could end up with high-altitude pulmonary edema, which is life-threatening. Altitude sickness also can impair your clarity of thought and judgment, so make a smart decision as soon as you start to see symptoms of acute sickness. Visitors to Colorado die from acute altitude sickness with frightening regularity, so please use caution.

Visiting a high-altitude destination can be an incredible experience, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy trip. By following these tips and taking care of your body, you can make the most of your adventure and enjoy the breathtaking views without any worries. Remember to stay hydrated, take it slow, watch for symptoms, and consult your doctor if necessary. With a little bit of preparation and self-care, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the challenges of high altitude and return home feeling like a superhero. Safe travels!

My packing list for a high-altitude destination:

• Ibuprofen
• Ginger lozenges
• Banana chips
• Liquid IV
• AG1 Travel Packs
• Refillable water bottle*
• Sunscreen

Be sure to check out 10 Essential Tips for Hiking and 8 Surprising Sun Care Tips in the Outdoors section of our travel tips for more outdoor travel tips!

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_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}

_{This post likely contains affiliate links. If you shop or make a reservation through these links, we may make a small commission (for which we are very grateful!) at no extra cost to you. Not all links are affiliates, and we only suggest products and places that we have experienced.}

_{We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.}

There’s always that one moment. 

You reach the crest of a hill. You round a bend. And suddenly, the landscape laid out before you literally takes your breath away.

You might argue that this is exactly the time when you’d want someone with you to share it. But there’s an extra intensity — a sense of being totally present — when you experience a moment like this alone.

Taking a solo road trip out west is iconic. The vistas are truly expansive, like a landscape painting that breathes. And there’s a sense of being a pioneer all over again, exploring places that you’re sure no one has ever passed — mostly because you’re completely alone. 

I promise I’m not anti-social. In fact, one of my favorite parts of taking a solo road trip out west is meeting people along the way, which happens differently than when you road trip in a more dense part of the country, such as the South or the East. But I find a road trip in wide-open spaces to be a fantastic way to travel solo. That may sound counterintuitive, but it’s easy to feel lonely in a crowd of happy couples and families.

It seems as if the expectation to be alone is more natural out west. Could it be because these areas are often home to rugged individualists who want to escape the grid? Perhaps. Lower population levels in states west of the Mississippi are likely part of it too. 

Whatever the case, a solo road trip out west is ideal for meditation, for healing, for exploring thoughts and feelings. Places where Mother Nature demands your attention but little else does are especially good for someone experiencing a transition in life. Or for someone who simply wants to get away from it all. 

Going it alone in regions where gas stations are few and far between, however, does require you to be super smart about a few things.

18 Tips for a Solo Road Trip Out West

1) Before you ever plan a solo road trip out west, be sure to check out my blog on what to pack in a road trip emergency kit. I feel so much more confident knowing that no matter what comes, I can survive for a few days in my car. I also tend to go hiking along the way during a solo road trip out west, so I bring my backpack, which includes gear to help me survive for a few days as well. 

2) For a solo road trip out west, I recommend packing a cooler and a bag of food. Restaurants, even fast food joints can be few and far between. And because of the ongoing staffing shortages, sometimes they’re closed even if they exist at all. A cooler full of drinks, breakfast foods and other favorites can tide you over. 

Be sure that bag of food goes beyond the typical road snacks. In my last solo road trip out west, I packed turkey jerky, some salt-free tortilla chips, some nut and raisin mixes that I made at home and plenty of peanut butter and jelly. In my cooler, I included some mini packs of mashed avocado and a big bag of baby carrots, some yogurt, and some kombucha, sparkling water and Coke Zero. You do you, of course, but think about some healthy additions to your typical road trip snacks that can serve as balanced meals.

And don’t forget the water. Be sure you have plenty of reusable water bottles filled with drinking water. I always have extra in my car emergency kit, but I fill a few Nalgenes every day that I’m on the road — more than I’ll drink in a day — just in case I get stuck somewhere.

(I was really glad that I took a bowl of precooked rice and a can of tuna, too. By the time I arrived at my Microtel in Vernal, Utah, after a long day of driving and hiking, nearby restaurants were closed. but there was a microwave in my room. And that was a great dinner.)

3) Don’t leave that food in your car overnight! Bears have been known to rip doors off of cars and destroy the interior trying to get at food — and they can smell incredibly well. Take your food into the hotel with you. If you’re camping, use a bear canister; depending on where you’re staying, rangers may ask you to also string up the canister and provide a means to hang it, or place it in a locker at the campground.

4) If you’re taking a solo road trip out west, I highly recommend both travel insurance and a roadside assistance plan. I have the Allianz annual plan as well as AAA. It’s reassuring to know that someone will come fetch you and make it all better if you run into a real problem.

5) When you take a solo road trip out west, gas stations can be sparse. And the last thing you want to do is run out of gas miles from anywhere. Even with roadside assistance, you could end up waiting a long while. If I’m down to half a tank. I’ll stop and top it off, just because I don’t always know how far it is till the next gas station. Of course, you can do a pretty good job of figuring that out by using the plethora of road trip apps listed in this blog that I wrote for Airsteam. 

I make good use of the rest area app, because on my last trip through northwest Colorado I stopped to find a potty six times at various places in one day, and only lucked out twice. One gas station was locked up; another didn’t have working restrooms; a visitor center was closed for Juneteenth…you get the idea. Thank God for rest areas.

6) On that note, another tip for a solo road trip out west is to take along a potty kit. I keep one in my glove box and several in my hiking pack. It’s nothing special — just a compostable sandwich bag with a single-use amount of toilet paper stuffed inside, paired with a small bottle of hand sanitizer. This way if I’m truly desperate I can find some shrubbery and make do without littering — I just toss the baggie when I see a trash can. (Though finding shrubbery can be as difficult out west as finding a restroom.)

7) In my work for Airstream, I recently interviewed several women who are solo female travelers. They had all kinds of ideas for safety and protection, including keeping an air horn handy. One travels with a gun, but I personally abhor guns and would never use or own one, so I carry pepper spray in my purse, and I have bear spray in my hiking backpack. Both will buy me some time in an emergency. 

I have a whistle, though that’s not as effective if you’re in a truly remote space. I also have an app on my phone called UrSafe that lets me push a button and send for help, as well as alert my emergency contacts. But again, that’s not always helpful if you’re in a remote area without cell service. 

So I also carry a sat phone. A satellite phone can be a bit of an investment upfront and does require a monthly service plan, but if you’re going to be hiking, biking or traveling in remote spaces, it’s a fantastic investment in your security. 

8) Sometimes when traveling on a solo road trip out west, you’ll pass through Native American lands. Many of these spaces have unique requirements: Sometimes you’re not permitted to take photos. Sometimes you have to provide identification upon entry and tell tribal representatives when you’re planning to leave the reservation. I know that as a Journey Here traveler, you’ll be respectful of customs and cultures. 

But what you might not know is that these lands often lack services. No restaurants, no gas stations and no cell service, sometimes for hours. Driving through a Native American reservation is a stunning experience, because you’ll get dark skies like no other, and it’s a rare glimpse into what the western part of the United States might have looked like centuries ago. But all of the tips is this blog are truly essential here.

9) Keep your gadgets charged, and consider including a solar charger in your lineup. I keep all of my communications devices topped up when I’m traveling on a solo road trip out west. My phone is always plugged in, because it’s my navigation. But I also top off my spare battery, and I carry a solar charger so that, worst case, I can use the power of the sun to get a few sips of juice. Mine is small and light enough to strap on the back of my backpack so that every time I go hiking, it’s picking up energy.

10) If you’re not from these spaces out west, be prepared for a bit of culture shock. Those used to a more urban or suburban environment might be uncomfortable. I’ve found that if you can overlook some of the obvious differences and be friendly and relatable, people will be friendly and relatable in return. Having grown up out in the country in the Midwest, I learned that sometimes the barrier is a bit of insecurity. Some people in more rural spaces anticipate that a person who looks differently or dresses differently or has different license plates might be condescending. So being open and friendly when it seems appropriate knocks down a lot of those walls. 

Of course, some of these spaces really aren’t friendly to women traveling alone, people of color or people of different races, ethnicities or practices. So listen to your gut. Use all those skills that you use when you’re traveling in any foreign environment. Pay attention, try to assimilate as much as possible and be aware of prevailing practices. 

I find that national and state parks are often friendly environments. It means there’s a better infrastructure for and expectation of tourists and visitors. And the people who visit the park systems come from all over to explore and see new things, so diverse experiences and perspectives are baked in.

11) Stay organized. This is a good tip for any road trip, but when you’re in places with dust, sand and rocks, where opportunities to offload trash and especially recycling are rare, a few extra steps could save your sanity.

• I built a little trash bin for my backseat out of the box that formerly held a case of almond milk from Costco. A small trash bag fit perfectly inside and was sturdy and stable. I put it within arm’s length of my driver’s seat. I tossed trash at gas stations but kept my cans in there until I could recycle them. 
• I chose biodegradable and compostable servingware and dishes to lessen my impact while eating away from home. My sandwich and snack baggies are biodegradable and compostable too. I carry dish soap with me so that I can wash out my reusable water bottle each night.
• I have an old rug over my floor mat so that as I’m getting in and out of my car with filthy shoes or hiking boots, cleanup is a little easier. I can grab the rug and shake it out along the way, then toss it in the washing machine on hot when I get home. 
• I always keep a pretty big bottle of hand sanitizer in my center console. But I also have hand sanitizing wipes there, because sometimes you’re just dirty, and liquid sanitizer is only going to smear it around. I also have some Seventh Generation cleaning wipes handy so that I can wipe up spills like coffee or yogurt or bugs that find their way onto the dashboard and die. My car may be pretty cluttered during a solo road trip out west, but I don’t like it to be really grubby.

12) Stay comfortable. A road trip can be good for the soul, but it can be hard on the body. These are the ways I take care of myself.

• The sun is much stronger in many parts of the west, especially at elevation, so I keep sunscreen in my center console. I always put it on my hands and wrists, as well as on my shoulder if the sun is coming through the side window.
• I tore my hamstring at the connection to my hip this spring, and I’ve always had piriformis syndrome, so I put a custom cushion on my seat. That makes my lumbar support all wonky, however, so I also put a cushion behind my lower back. Yes, I very much feel like an old lady. I suppose maybe I am. But the ache is intolerable otherwise.
• Being in the car puts me right to sleep. Literally, if I’ve been going hard, I can doze off at a stoplight driving across town. So I give myself plenty of time to sleep at night, in case my insomnia kicks in, and I try to avoid driving more than five to seven hours a day.
• I also break up a long drive with a short hike. I use the pro version of the AllTrails app to find hikes along my route. I can think of no better way to restore blood flow while seeing unique gems, and an hour doesn’t put me too far behind. 

13) Prep your entertainment. Speaking of staying awake: You might not have cell service during your solo road trip out west, which means you also might not be able to make phone calls or listen to music. Download a lot of podcasts, audio books or language lessons. You can feed your brain from point A to point B. 

You can also download the Otter app and do some writing while you’re driving. Not literally, of course, but the Otter app allows you to speak into your phone and get a rough transcription of your thoughts, which you can send to email and clean up later. That’s actually how I wrote this blog. It was composed while I was driving from Vernal, Utah, to Salt Lake City amid some of the most gorgeous but remote scenery you’d ever hope to see.

14) Stop at the rest areas. They tend to be a little bit cleaner than gas station bathrooms, and there are often interesting tidbits or brochures about the region inside. Iowa has some of the best rest areas along I-80, with fascinating facts about the wind power turbines that you can see in motion all around you as you drive.

There’s usually some green space, if you need to get out and stretch your legs a little bit. Or If you need to close your eyes for 15 minutes, you can pull off at a rest area, park in one of the spots a little further toward the edge, lock your doors and put your seat back

And I’ve seen some amazing scenery from rest areas. Driving back to Idaho Falls from the Tetons during a solo road trip out west, I stopped at remote rest area along the Snake River. The sunset was so stunning that I went back to my car and grabbed my phone to take photos. The rest area in Glenwood Canyon, in Colorado, is right beside the sparkling Colorado River. And a rest area that I visited in Utah on my way to Salt Lake City had a path to the top of the hill at the edge of the parking lot where you could see a massive lake, plus whole eras of paleontological history in the bluffs behind it. 

So stop at every rest area that you see. You never know when you’re going to get another chance to go potty, and the views can be phenomenal.

15) Stop at the viewing areas. My someday dream is to endlessly road trip with enough time to stop at every scenic pulloff. Getting out of the car is different than seeing the scenery at 65 mph. The air will smell different from place to place, depending on the flora and fauna. It might feel warmer or cooler or drier. You can hear the sounds of native birds and animals. Getting out and appreciating the detail of a place from the viewing area off the highway is a sensory experience. Most highways have signs at least a mile in advance so you can make your way over. 

16) When you set out on a solo road trip out west, you need to understand how to drive up and down big hills … aka mountains. Please don’t freak out when I encourage you to learn how to drive in the mountains. Believe me, I didn’t know how to for a long, long time. I grew up in very flat northeast Indiana. A little bit of time with Google or YouTube can help teach you how to use your gears and your brakes on steep inclines and declines and hairpin curves.

You also need to be aware that wild animals could cross your path, especially at twilight when deer are more active. And in certain parts of the country, you’ll encounter a lot of bicyclists riding on the shoulder. So you should watch not just the road, but also the sides of the road. 

17) Knowing how to handle things like a massive rainstorm, hail or an encounter with an animal is really important too. I didn’t grow up knowing this either. (Except deer. It was an unfortunate and expensive rite of passage to hit a deer driving alongside woods and fields every time you went anywhere, growing up in the rural area where I did.) I lived for three years in Chicago, so I’m comfortable in spaces that are dense, noisy and heavily populated — places without falling rocks or moose. But I promise you that this is something you can learn. 

If you really want to be empowered, try taking a wilderness first responder course — graduates are called “woofers.” While it’s intense, and it’s not necessary for a solo road trip, it will help you prepare for any eventuality and make you aware of things you should avoid or do in the outdoors.

18) And before you embark on a solo road trip out west, you should read our general solo travel safety tips. Among the important considerations here: 

• Don’t tell people that you’re traveling alone.
• Don’t tell them where you’re staying.
• And be hyper-vigilant about the cars around you or the people hiking around you on a trail.

As with hiking, you should always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be there, so that if something happens, people know where to begin the search. I also share my location on my iPhone with a loved one. I may be traveling solo, but I have a whole support team back home.

One of the things that I love about a solo road trip out west is the sense of openness and awe and wild. I feel as if there are endless new vistas around every corner or at the top of every hill, and wide open spaces where I can think and explore forever. 

I also love the challenge that comes with being alone in these wide-open spaces where Mother Nature is in charge and you have to play by her rules. You have to be smart, savvy and aware. You have to have a plan A and plan B and a plan C.

The good news is that just about anyone on a road trip is happy to share their tips and advice. So many people going in the other direction have told me about their favorite spots in the town I’ll be passing through next, or a majestic view on the highway ahead. So many people have been willing to share information or ask questions. They call it trail magic when you’re hiking. I’m sure there must be a similar name for the kindness I’ve found during a road trip.

A solo road trip out west can be an incredibly moving, empowering and stunning experience. You’ve heard of Eat Pray Love, right? For me, it’s Drive, Think, Hike. I don’t always have someone to travel with, but I’d never want to give up those experiences. So pack well. Fuel up often. And get ready to see things that blow your mind and crack your heart wide open.

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_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}

_{This post likely contains affiliate links. If you shop or make a reservation through these links, we may make a small commission (for which we are very grateful!) at no extra cost to you. Not all links are affiliates, and we only suggest products and places that we have experienced.}

_{We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites.}

I am a planner. I like to find ways to make my trips run smoothly. I travel a lot, but I still get anxious when I head out on a trip. It’s who I am. Are you are a person who likes to be prepared? If so this is an excellent list of travel apps for you! We have a whole section dedicated to travel safety and one to travel planning; be sure to check them out!

Julianne and I have hundreds of apps on our phones. Not all are travel apps, but a lot are. I have universal travel apps and country-specific travel apps. Below are several smart travel apps to help you have a safe and easy trip!

Note: When I have an upcoming trip, I move all of the travel apps for that trip to one folder on my phone’s home screen so everything is easily accessible in one spot!

The travel apps recommended below are suitable for all types of trips, but a few of the apps are specific for United States residents preparing to travel abroad. I don’t care if you are flying to Jamaica or Japan. This list is helpful for every country. Let’s go!

1. Smart Traveler App: This travel app by the US Department of State is the mobile version of the website by the same name that we wrote about when recommending that you register your trip with the State Department. Suppose there is a natural disaster, global pandemic, civil unrest or other cause for alarm in your travel area. In that case, the State Department will send you a message and provide emergency numbers and information. They can also help get you home if need be! The main reason I like the app is that it is much easier to navigate than the website. Outside of registering my trip, which you should totally do, I use it to review local laws and customs and see if there are unusual concerns as a woman traveling solo. You can also see if there are particular vaccines you need for the area you are traveling to. It also provides the consulate, embassy and local emergency numbers, all at my fingertips, with minimal navigation. This is the number one app you should download. And, of course, set up your account and register your trip!
2. Google Translate: There are so many great features to Google Translate. Does it work perfectly? No. But it gets me a lot further in a conversation than I can on my own. You can translate a menu using the camera feature, which sometimes produces hilarious results but gives me the gist of the meal. Trying to have a conversation? There is a feature that allows two people to speak back and forth while the app translates what you say into your two different languages. You can even save phrases you will use frequently for easy reference — and it will speak them for you so you can practice! 
3. Airalo: Airalo is an eSim carrier connecting customers with local mobile services in 130 countries. If your phone is eSim enabled, switching to a local carrier in another country is easy. You can buy local, regional or global plans that are more affordable than your carrier will charge for international calls and data. The only exception might be GoogleFi, which I used for a while and didn’t love. I’ve used Airalo for two trips now, Budapest and Ecuador. Make sure you install the eSim before you go, then when you land, turn on your eSim line, then turn your phone on and off, and you should be all set up!
4. Citymapper travel app: I’ll admit, it took me a while to get on board with Citymapper. I’ve been a Google Maps person for a long time, but it has many great features that feel superior to Google Maps. The number one reason I like Citymapper is that the modes of transport are very clear. On Google Maps, I sometimes can’t tell if it’s trying to put me on a bus or a train (subway, metro, L, etc.), and if I am in a new city, sometimes it is just clunky for me to figure out. I frequently talk about how frustrating I find public transportation in some cities. In Citymapper, I can see all of the possible transport opinions, or if I want to pick a particular mode of transportation, I can simply click on it and see only that option. It has audio navigation for walking directions, which I really like as I usually keep one earbud in when I’m in a foreign city so I can keep my phone in my pocket or at least not be gawking at it while I try to navigate. You can also save the places you have planned to visit and set them in your favorites for that city. This allows you to find them with the tap of a button. You can have an ad-free experience for just $9.99 per year. 

5. Bolt app: Bolt is a ride-share company similar to Uber or Lyft. It is widely used in many European countries. Always see what ride shares are available, download the appropriate travel app for your trip and set up your account.

6. Nord VPN: Protecting sensitive information is always a priority, and it’s even more critical when traveling and using public wifi. We wrote about why you need a VPN at home and abroad, and having it on your phone is just smart. Remember that occasionally, it can keep you from adequately using things like Google Maps or some banking applications, so make sure all of your permissions are set up or turn it off briefly if you have issues. This is one of the best travel apps you can use to protect your information.

7. Mobile Passport Control: If you DO NOT have Global Entry, download Mobile Passport Control. When you return to the U.S., you must go through customs at the first U.S. airport you land in, which might be your final destination or a connecting flight to your home airport. Some major airports now have three paths through customs. Global Entry is the fastest, and you have to apply and pay for a Global Entry card and have that card with you to go through Global Entry. Option two: You can submit your information in the Mobile Passport Control app once you have landed at the airport. This allows you to go through the digital passport control line, which tends to be faster than the regular line. As an example, when my daughter and I returned from a trip to Portugal via O’Hare Airport, I was through Global Entry in five minutes, and she was in the regular customs line for over two hours. Mobile passport splits that difference. 

8. Xe Currency Converter: Unless you are a math wiz, keeping track of conversion rates when shopping in a foreign country can be confusing. Having a currency converter travel app is so helpful. If I’m at a restaurant and trying to figure out the tip or buying groceries at the bodega around the corner, I like to know what I’m spending. I travel on a budget! Just pop in the amount, and it will instantly tell you how much it will cost you in USD. The app is updated every few minutes, and you can use it when you are offline. 

9. WhatsApp: WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows users to send text messages and make voice and video calls. WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in the world and offers end-to-end encryption for secure communication. You will find it commonly used by tour guides, personal drivers, taxis and even some hotels in many countries. This also allows you to call or text with family and friends back home over wifi and avoid using your data plan.

These travel apps should be downloaded based on what company you are using. Such as the specific airline you are flying, the local transportation, your personal bank etc.

10. Airline Apps: This applies to domestic travel too, but when traveling abroad, you may be flying partner airlines of the ones you booked with. For instance, I am flying United Airlines, Swiss Air and Brussels Airlines on my upcoming trip. I have set up accounts with all three (get those miles!) and downloaded the apps. I can check in for my flights, download my boarding pass, check flight information and more. 
11. Accommodation Apps: Hotel, Airbnb, bed and breakfast, hostel or wherever you stay — download the app and set up an account. It’s much easier to check on your booking and sometimes even check into your hotel via the app. Some hotels also have digital keys, meaning you can go straight to your room when you arrive. 
12. Public Transportation App: Not every city will have public transportation; only some cities will have an app even if they do, but look to see before you go. There are often deals for tourists or short-term passes that provide unlimited rides for a week, half a month, or longer. If there is an app, set up an account, connect your preferred travel credit card, and you will be all set to hop on the first bus, train, metro or boat you come across! Every city is different and has different public transportation rules, but you will find you can use the same app for multiple kinds of transport. Many cities have incorporated apps to scan in and out of stations and on and off buses. It is so much easier than trying to navigate the ticket kiosks!
13. Tickets to events: I frequently book through Get Your Guide, Airbnb Experiences or Viator, and I have all these apps on my phone. For my upcoming trip, I downloaded jegy.hu, a Hungarian ticketing app that most of the experiences and tours I booked run through. All of my museum passes are in one spot on the app! 

14. Banking: While not necessarily a travel app, make sure you put your credit card and bank apps in the folder with your other travel apps. If you run into an issue, such as having your wallet stolen, you will want to be able to contact your bank quickly. Some countries have a universal pay app different from what you may use at home. Two examples are Simple Classic, a payment system in Hungary and AliPay, which is used widely throughout China. By having accounts set up, linked through my travel credit card, I can quickly pay for things like taxis, restaurant tabs and more, all through this app. Another banking tip: Make sure you have a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Capital One Venture and Chase Sapphire are both great starter cards for travel. I also have a checking account and debit card through Charles Schwab so I not only have no transaction fees on my ATM withdrawals, but I also get reimbursed for the ATM fees that are incurred. If you get a travel card, ensure you understand how to use the points. I have bought so many free flights with my credit card points! 
15. Travel Insurance App: I use Allianz, and their app is called Travel Smart. I keep it in my trip folder so it is easily accessible if I need it. You may say “I have a travel credit card; do I really need trip insurance?” The answer is yes. Take a moment to go read why and come right back. Now that you know why you should have it, download the app attached to your carrier and log in to see your insurance card. Now you’re set to go!

While you can travel without using technology, it provides ease, safety and convenience for me.  I travel with paper copies of everything and even keep records on a flash drive in my bag. (Julianne stores scans of hers in Dropbox.) I might be over-prepared, but I’d rather be over-prepared than panicked any day!

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_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}

Do you ever wish that you could roll like a baller, jetting around the world on a whim and staying in the finest hotels? Even if you’re not traveling first class, you could be traveling better.

I attended the Denver Travel and Adventure Show recently and sat in on a presentation by Brian Kelly, the founder of The Points Guy, the preeminent voice on using points from loyalty programs and credit cards for travel.

Though I was in absolute fan-girl mode (I’ve been following TPG for a long time), I took a whole host of notes to share with you, dear friends, on traveling better.

Traveling better with points and pointers

In no particular order, this was the advice from Brian and The Points Guy team:

Check out the Bilt credit card. Get travel points for paying your rent, without paying extra transaction fees. 

Yes, get a branded airline card, but use it more for the perks and not the points. A general card such as the Chase Sapphire or Capital One card may have better points rewards, and they will transfer to any airline or other travel.

If flying Southwest Airlines, front-load your flights and points-earning with the Southwest card early in the year to achieve companion pass status. It’s good for the following full calendar year, plus the remainder of the year in which you earned it. 

If you’re struggling with an urgent customer service issue with an airline, track down the person who oversees that department on LinkedIn and send them a message directly.

Traveling better means arriving with your checked bags. Place an Air Tag inside and take a photo of the outside; if it gets lost, you can send the location and a photo to the airline’s customer service team. (And choose a bag in a crazy color.)

Shopping online? Try out https://evreward.com/ to earn rewards for your purchases on top of the rewards you earn from your credit card.

Enroll all of your cards in their respective dining programs. 

If you lose your luggage or have another issue (hotel, rental car, etc.), check your credit card’s protection; keep it handy during your trip. 

So far only available for IOS uses, the LoungeBuddy app will tell you which lounges you already have access to; and if you don’t have access, you can purchase instant lounge access. (Lounges definitely make traveling better.)

If you’re having a hard time getting an appointment for a Global Entry pass, check out Appointment Scanner for last-minute availability.

With massive demand and fewer staff and routes, post-pandemic travel has been brutal. A few tips for traveling better during peak season.

• Have a backup plan.
• Make sure you have your airline’s app and turn on push notifications.
• Use Flight Aware to track your airplane; when the pilot files a flight plan for your airplane, you’re almost sure to take off.
• Check out ExpertFlyer to track down seat availability.
• If your flight is canceled, don’t hesitate to ask for what you want, such as lounge access.
• Fly in at least a day before you need to be somewhere, such as at a wedding or departing on a cruise. 

The Points Guy Team also mentioned the Aeroplan. I haven’t wrapped my head around how it works yet, but I’m going to take one for the team and try it out.

For more information on the basics of traveling better using points and miles, see The Points Guy’s guide to getting started with points, miles and credit cards.

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_{The views expressed on this website represent the opinions of the authors; we encourage you to form your own opinions and confirm any facts.}