Our favorite Travel Planning Resources For Every Trip
When it comes to planning a trip, we like to make the most of our time—and that starts with having the right tools. Over the years (and countless hours of research), we’ve found a handful of trusted travel resources that help us book everything from flights and hotels to tours and transportation efficiently and confidently.
We’re all about intentional travel here at Travel With Kinsley, so everything we recommend below is something we’ve personally used and loved—no fluff, just practical tools that make trip planning easier and more enjoyable.
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Best Travel Resources Before The Trip
Inspiration
Before we ever book a flight, we spend time gathering inspiration. Pinterest and Instagram are our go-to platforms for saving photos, hotel ideas, and must-see spots—we create a dedicated board for every trip. Travel blogs (like this one!) also help us get a real sense of what to expect through personal stories and practical tips.
Packing Lists
Let’s be real—packing can get stressful, especially if you’re trying to make the most of limited space. We always use a printed checklist so nothing gets left behind. Whether you’re a light packer or the “just-in-case” type, having a list you can check off with a pen keeps everything organized. We’ve also created free packing list templates you can customize for your own trip (coming soon!).
Flights
To get the best flight deals, we like to compare prices using Skyscanner and Trip.com. These platforms make it easy to spot flexible dates and score good fares, especially when we’re booking a few months out.
Accommodations
Comfort, location, and budget all matter—especially when we’re working with limited vacation time. We typically use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for longer stays or more unique spaces. Even if we don’t book right away, we’ll save options to come back to once our itinerary is solid.
Travel Insurance
It’s not the most exciting part of trip planning, but it’s one of the most important. We always recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover things like trip delays, cancellations, or medical needs abroad. Two options we trust are VisitorsCoverage and EKTA, both offering flexible, affordable plans for international travel.
Best Travel Resources During the Trip
Transportation
Whether we’re city-hopping in Europe or planning a U.S. road trip, getting around efficiently is a must. We use Trainline to compare transportation options like trains, buses, and even ferries—all in one place. For airport pickups or private rides to hotels, GetTransfer makes it easy to book in advance and avoid any arrival-day stress.
Tours and Tickets
We love a well-planned itinerary, but we also want memorable experiences that bring a destination to life. We use GetYourGuide and Viator to book tours, museum tickets, and unique activities ahead of time—like guided food walks, day trips, or skip-the-line entry to popular sites.
