When I started traveling on my own, the web didn’t exist, and women rarely traveled solo.
There were few travel resources for women. I had to dredge existing guidebooks that dedicated a paragraph or two to women’s travel, no more.
But today things are different.
We have the web, and it’s crowded with information and advice for us. Sometimes too much advice, so I’ll try to simplify things by sharing the travel resources I personally use to plan my travels. (I’ve also added some travel blogging and writing resources at the bottom if you’re so inclined.)
HOW TO ORGANIZE YOUR TRIP
Deciding where to start planning can be complicated – there’s so much out there. Start by exploring these initial pages and branch out from here.
- How to Choose the Best Travel Destination
- How to Choose the Best Time to Visit
- How to See Any City in Just One Day
- Dealing with Long Layover Flights
- The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Packing List
Essential Planning Resources
- To do my research, I use a variety of travel guidebooks
- Read some great book reviews about Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the rest of the world
- Getting organized is complicated: I use Notion to keep everything in order
- Before I fly, I check Scotts Cheap Flights for any ‘error’ fares (where I can save up to 90%!)
- I book my accommodation (hotel, apartment) through booking.com or Airbnb
- For hostels, I use HostelWorld
- Whenever I book a walking or city tour, I use Viator or Get Your Guide
- I always buy a brand new travel journal for each major trip
WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU
- Here’s my master packing list – it’s for long-term travel but use it as a template
- Visit my Women’s Travel Shop for the best gear, clothes and accessories
HOW TO STAY HEALTHY AND SAFE
Whatever your travel plans or concerns, staying healthy and safe should be at the very top of your list. Don’t fall prey to the “it won’t happen to me” syndrome – it doesn’t have to, if you take a few precautions.
- No matter what anyone says, I always buy travel insurance (I’ve used World Nomads for years)
- If you’re past the age limit, I’ve found several great insurance companies to take you on
- Here’s how to stay safe in your hotel room
- If you’re scared of flying, consider taking the SOAR course (it worked for me)
Helpful resources on health and safety
- International Travel and Health (by the World Health Organization)
- CDC’s travel health directory
- Geosure, the app that keeps you safe
- Your First Aid Kit Checklist
- What is Travel Insurance and Why Do You Need It?
MONEY MATTERS
We never seem to have enough money to travel as much as we’d like – that’s a fact. Here are some ways to save money, or to earn more to travel more.
- Learn how to teach English with MyTEFL (use my code SCRIBE35 for a 35% discount)
- The perfect introduction to How to Make Money from Blogging
- Save on your accommodation by becoming a housesitter
- How women can make money online
AND IF YOU CAN’T TRAVEL…
- International book list by country
- Virtual tours from around the world
- What to do if you’re stuck at home
— Originally published on 12 November 2011