Transportation 

 Finding discount plane and train tickets 
isn’t as hard as you might think. With these helpful tools you won’t have to go 
searching all over town to find the best deals on transportation – they’ll find 
them for you.

1. Airwise.com: Check 
   out this Web site to find pricing and booking information for flights, car 
   rentals, and cruises anywhere in the world. Airwise also has an Airport Guide, 
   which gives you weather updates, saftey news, and other need-to-know information 
   for airports everywhere.


2. Air Brokers International, 
   Inc. All you have to do is enter your preferred travel itinerary 
   into the online form and the Air Brokers will find you the cheapest tickets to 
   any destination in the world outside North America.


3. Asia Air 
   Pass: This Web site offers several different airline packages which 
   all allow you to travel to multiple Asian countries on an extremely reasonable 
   budget.


4. easyJet.com: Book 
   cheap flights to and from most European countries. This airline is gaining 
   popularity but is still relatively new, which translates into great service and 
   less competition for seats.


5. Ryanair.com: 
   Ryanair’s Web site brags that it has "the lowest fares guaranteed," so start 
   searching for budget plane tickets right away!


6. Eurail: If you’re 
   planning on visiting many different countries on the same continent, your best 
   bet is to get a Eurail pass. Eurail offers various packages. You can design the 
   one that works best with your schedule and bank account.


7. Expedia.com: Expedia.com 
   features cheap airplane tickets, as well as rental car reservations and cruise 
   packages.


8. Vacations To Go: 
   This online company is devoted to finding you the best possible deals for 
   cruises and safaris all over the world.


9. The Subway 
   Page: This page, found on the Reed College Web site, provides links 
   to subway maps and information for virtually all the subway systems in the 
   world.


10. CheapTickets.com: Search 
    flights, last minute vacation ideas, and "cheap of the week" specials to find 
    the best deals.

Food and Drink  

Part of the joy of traveling the world is 
exposing yourself (and your palate) to new flavors and traditions in the local 
cuisine. Use this list to find the cheapest ways to keep your tummy full, your 
tastebuds happy, and your wallet stuffed.

1. The Trailside 
   Cookbook: This site has tons of tasty recipes for backpackers on a 
   budget. Cooking for yourself will barely tap into that $35, but your tastebuds 
   will hardly notice.


2. The 
   Entertainment Book: If you’re traveling around the United States, 
   you have to purchase The Entertainment Book, which is full of coupons for great 
   restaurants, as well as museums and sporting events.


3. 
   DestinationCoupons.com: Find great restaurant and meal coupons for 
   the top location destinations, including London, Paris, New York City, Tahiti, 
   and the Caribbean.


4. Restaurant.com: 
   With a slogan like "Eat. Drink. Save Money," this online database of 
   U.S. restaurants and coupons is perfect for any traveler on a budget.


5. Cheap 
   Eats on EuropeString.com: This Web site gives tips on finding the 
   cheapest places to eat and drink in Europe. Browse topics like "Ways to Get Free 
   Drinks in Bars" and "Where to Eat in Barcelona."


6. "12 
   Frugal Vacation Tips:" This article on about.com has clever tricks 
   for finding cheap restaurants wherever you go. Take advantages of afternoon 
   specials or follow the local workers who "know where to get a bargain."


7. "Backpacker’s 
   Guide to Cheap Eats:" Read this article to find more ideas for 
   enjoying the local flavor, like buy a bottle of wine ahead of time and enjoy 
   drinking it "in the park." Drinking rules are usually more lax abroad, 
   anyway!


8. Cheap 
   Eats in Tokyo: Check out this list of the best places to eat 
   cheaply in Tokyo.


9. Chowhound.com: The 
   Chowhound blog posts articles about great finds all over the world. Follow the 
   suggestions, and you’ll be eating good, authentic food without paying too 
   much.


10. Sydney Eats: 
    Peruse through the list of Sydney’s restaurants. You’ll find out how much you 
    can expect to pay even before you go.

Guidebooks

There’s only so much planning you can do on your 
own. Take along one or two of these trusty guidebooks and let the pros tell you 
where to go without getting ripped off.

1. Frommer’s: This 
   classic guide features a large array of titles and series like the "Day by Day" 
   books, "Phrasefinder" series and "Irreverent Guide to…" books. Pick a theme for 
   your vacation, and Frommer’s will take you there.


2. Fodor’s: Pick 
   from one of Fodor’s traditional book series by choosing an all-inclusive 
   guidebook for Paris, Italy, or the Caribbean. Or select a travel guide in their 
   "25 Best" or See It" series.


3. Moon: The Moon 
   guidebooks feature pages of beautiful photographs for destinations like the 
   Canadian Rockies, Ireland, and the Virgin Islands. They also have special map 
   books or guides especially for those moving abroad.


4. 
   Rick Steves’ travel books: Travel around Europe guided by the 
   professional traveler Rick Steves. Choose books by country, region, or 
   city.


5. Let’s Go Travel 
   Guides: The Let’s Go Travel Guides are great for planning 
   roadtrips, extreme adventures, or relaxing vacations.


6. The 
   100 Best Vacations to Enrich Your Life: Feeling uninspired or think 
   you’ve already seen enough of the world? Check out this book, which will give 
   you new ideas for travel destinations.


7. 
   The 10 Best of Everything: This hefty travel manual gives 
   information on transportation and lodging around the locations of several "Top 
   10" lists: the "ten finest golf courses to Luciano Pavarotti’s ten favorite 
   opera houses to the ten poshest train trips, classiest wristwatches, most 
   atmospheric pubs, and much more," according to the product description.


8. PassPorter: The 
   PassPorter books give detailed descriptions about Disney cruises, trips to the 
   Big Apple and more.


9. National 
   Geographic Guidebooks: These handy travel guides not only point out 
   the best places to go, they also give you a brief history of the country, city, 
   and/or region in which you’re traveling.


10. The Backpacker’s Ultimate 
    Guide: These BUG books give extensive information on backpacking 
    through Europe, Australia, and the South Pacific.

Trip Planners  

Why pay a travel agent when these vacation 
planning tools and resources are free?

1. SoGoNow.com:Search by 
   destination or look through the "best of" section to get ideas on vacations all 
   over the world. Day trips, weekend getaways, and other suggestions are all over 
   this great site.


2. LonelyPlanet 
   blog: The blog found on the Lonely Planet Web site is great for 
   vacation planning. Search the many travel stories that others have posted. You 
   can copy any vacation that sounds exciting to you too.


3. Tourist Tips: 
   Orlando: This site gives you so many suggestions, event calendars, 
   and checklists, you won’t have to do any of the work!


4. London Toolkit: 
   This Web site has everything you need to plan a trip to London.


5. BargainTravelCruises.com: 
   Find budget travel information for booking a group travel package on cruises all 
   over the world.


6. Roadtrip 
   America: This site is the prime resource for planning a multitude 
   of different roadtrips all over America.


7. 
   GoEurope.about.com: This table of contents lists several must-read 
   articles about planning a trip to Europe including "Student Travel Planning" and 
   "Suggested Itineraries."


8. The 
   Consumer Vacation Guide: This guide finds cheap travel packages and 
   other all-inclusive deals so you don’t have to worry about planning a 
   thing.


9. "Planning 
   Tools and Strategies for Budget Travel:" This article includes lots 
   of great tips for planning the perfect budget vacation.


10. Rand 
    McNally TripMaker Planning Tool: This feature on the Rand McNally 
    Web site allows you to custom design your vacation online. It helps you stay 
    organized while experimenting with different destinations, schedules, and 
    more.

Packing 

 Use this list to find inexpensive luggage and to 
pack the things you’ll need most.

1. LuggageOnline.com: 
   Peruse this Web site to find exceptional deals on luggage.


2. 
   Overstock.com: Shop oversized, durable travelers’ backpacks at 
   discount prices.


3. 
   DiscountLuggage.com: Find discount luggage by searching through 
   kids’ items, lightweight suitcases, travel accessories, and more.


4. "How 
   to Pack Light and Travel Happy:" This article by Rick Steves’, 
   found on the Transitions Abroad Web site, gives valuable advice on how and why 
   to pack light when going abroad.


5. The Travelite 
   FAQ: Read tips about packing the right kind of clothing for any 
   kind of trip.


6. 
   EscapeArtist.com: This chart shows you which kind of electrical 
   system, type of plugs and voltage each country uses, so that you know what kind 
   of adapters you have to bring along with you.


7. Walk About 
   Travel Gear: This site is another terrific resource for finding out 
   about electrical adapters.


8. 
   Camera reviews: Compare digital camera prices and consumer reviews 
   to find out which one works best with your budget.


9. "Packing 
   Advice from a Traveler:" This article is full of great ideas for 
   packing before embarking on another adventure.


10. OneBag.com This Web 
    site is a comprehensive resource for how, why, and when to pack light.

Probably the best time for traveling the world is when you’re young. You’ve 
got little to no real responsibilities and you’re still spontaneous enough to 
try almost anything. The down side? You’re probably pretty broke. Pricey plane 
tickets, disadvantaged exchange rates, and museum passes can add up to a lot of 
cash very quickly. But don’t fret. We’ve taken it upon ourselves to help you 
realize your dreams of traveling the world, experiencing new things and lounging 
around Mediterranean beaches all while managing to elude your real world 
obligations for just a little bit longer.

Lodging  

You’ve already accepted the fact that your 
traveling budget is tight, alas no Ritz hotel in Paris for you. That doesn’t 
mean, however, that you have to sleep on a mattress infested with creepy 
crawlers. Here are some ideas that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable…and 
all for a reasonable price. You don’t really want to spend the bulk of your $35 
while you sleep, do you?

1. Hostels.com: Book a 
   hostel anywhere in the world. Read the section on what to expect — and what you 
   should bring — during your hostel stay.


2. Hostelworld.com: 
   This site may just have the cheapest hostel reservations on the Web. Search 
   unbelievably low rates in dream cities like London and New York. Then check what 
   former lodgers have said about their stay.


3. Hostelling International 
   USA: Most travelers only think of staying in a hostel if they’re 
   going overseas. Use this Web site to find great hostels in the United States in 
   places like San Francisco, Waikiki, New York City, or Monterey.


4. Hostelz.com: 
   Hostelz.com reviews tons of hostels across the globe so you know which ones to 
   avoid and which ones to book right away.


5. HostelMania.com: 
   HostelMania.com lets you search for cheap reservations while giving you the top 
   security connections when you decide to make a reservation. Confirmations are 
   sent directly to your cell phone.


6. HomeLink 
   International: Even though the home swap idea is just now gaining 
   popularity, this company has been around since 1953, so you know your home and 
   your vacation will be taken care of by the right people.


7. HolidayApartmentRental.com: 
   Can you imagine yourself staying in an apartment, bed and breakfast or condo in 
   a city like Rome or Madrid for a discounted price? Visit 
   HolidayApartmentRental.com and make your dreams become a reality.


8. TripsEurope.com: 
   Rent an apartment in Paris after visiting this Web site. You can select the 
   perfect apartment for your budget and tastes based on size, neighborhood, and 
   price.


9. 
   TuscanyAccommodations.org: Ever dream of staying in a Tuscan villa? 
   How about a romantic apartment in Florence? Find cheap but fabulous lodging 
   choices on this Web site. Many of the condos and villas sleep over 10 people, so 
   you and your friends can split the cost.


10. HomeExchange.com: Instead of 
    spending the night alongside a roomful of total strangers, register for a home 
    exchange program.  You’ll get to stay in a comfortable, furnished house or 
    apartment all by yourself. The first year of membership will cost you $100, but 
    if you divide the price by the number of people sharing the space, you’ll find 
    yourself a great deal.

Blogs  

Before you jump on the plane, take a look at these 
blogs for travel advice, destination recommendations, and more from 
insiders.

1. The Main in Seat 
   Sixty-One: This extensive blog is maintained by a self-proclaimed 
   "career railwayman." Read tips and ideas for traveling all over the world, 
   whether you’re in Gibraltar, Capetown, or Taiwan.


2. Travbuddy.com: Read 
   other vacationers’ travel reviews of popular spots in Africa and Europe or off 
   the beaten path places in Patagonia or the Rocky Mountains.


3. HoboTraveler.com: 
   Included in the Forbes.com Top 5 travel blogs list, HoboTraveler.com features a 
   wealth of tips about traveling, like picking the right camera, organizing  your 
   itinerary, and staying healthy abroad.


4. Travelpod.com: 
   Claiming to be the Web’s original travel blog, travelpod.com provides a listing 
   of links for transportation, hotels, and tours, as well as hosting a forum for 
   travelers to review their vacations and ask questions.


5. 
   BudgetGlobetrotting.com: This lighthearted blog gives tips on 
   traveling on a budget. It’s also a great resource for information on planning a 
   trip anywhere on the globe


6. Backpackers.com: 
   Research destinations, make hostel reservations, and more on this must-read site 
   for backpackers.


7. Southwest Airlines 
   Blog: Read about news from the popular American airline and air 
   travel in general. If you’re flying Southwest, click through the site to confirm 
   your flight


8. Europepathway.com: 
   As a comprehensive travel site for the whole continent, this blog has 
   everything you need to plan a European getaway.


9. Internationalevents.suite101.com: 
   Keep track of some of the best parties on the planet, or at least in South 
   America. If there’s already a party going on, you’ll probably find good deals on 
   day passes — if you have to pay at all. Check the calendar often to make sure 
   you don’t miss anything.


10. Asiahotelstravel.com: 
    Stay informed on the best deals for traveling to and around Asia.

Social Networking  

Share ideas, read reviews, and meet up 
with other travelers by logging into these social and travel networking 
sites.

1. Realtravel.com: 
   Realtravel.com hosts a huge collection of travel blogs for any place in the 
   whole world. Plan cruises, family vacations or a romantic honeymoon using the 
   tools on this site while reading other travelers’ reviews and tips.


2. Travelblog.org: 
   Travelblog.org allows you to post an online diary of your vacation and send to 
   friends. In addition to posting basic information about different countries, 
   travelblog.org also features a beautiful photo gallery.


3. Facebook: 
   Facebook is an online community that lets you design a profile, join groups, and 
   meet friends. Plan a trip with your friends by organizing through Facebook, or 
   ask other users about their vacation experiences.


4. MySpace: MySpace is 
   another social networking site on the Web. Post your travel questions on your 
   MySpace page and wait for others to give you great advice.


5. VirtualTourist.com: This 
   site, in addition to being a great travel resource, puts you in touch with 
   members so that you can ask questions, view photos, and find the best deals 
   around the globe.


6. CouchSurfing: 
   This site is driven by travelers who wish to share their experiences or find out 
   more information abou their upcoming vacation. Find a travel buddy or arrange to 
   meet up with another member if you’re visiting the same place at the same 
   time.


7. Bootsnall.com: The 
   staff at Bootsnall.com maintains a forum for users to post travel experiences, 
   review hostels, flights, and more.


8. TripUp: Completely 
   devoted to travel networking, TripUp not only puts you in contact with other 
   past, present, and future travelers, but also with locals who’d like to welcome 
   you to their corner of the world.


9. Where Are You Now? Join 
   this community for free. Create a profile with photos, links, and posts to 
   update your friends and family on how much fun you’re having during your 
   travels.


10. Gusto: Gusto allows you 
    to "collect travel information, organize it into categories, and plan your 
    vacation…without the headaches." This easy-to-use travel site is also great for 
    finding or writing recommendations about anything and everything you can 
    experience on vacation.

Phone and E-mail Use 

 If you’re going to be away from the 
country for even a few days, you’re going to want to get to a computer to assure 
friends and family you’ve arrived safely; to check on the status of flights and 
trains; and to check on your bank account. Cell phone use may not seem as 
important to you, but if you’re going to live on another continent for a 
semester abroad or to work, you’ll want the best deals on staying connected 
locally, as well as globally.

1. The Cybercafe Search 
   Engine: Before you leave, map out the best internet cafes that will 
   be near your hostel. That way you won’t have to waste time hunting one down once 
   you’re there.


2. Cybercafes.com: 
   This is another database of cybercafes all over the world.


3. Netcafeguide.com This 
   directory of internet cafes enlists the help of other travelers to review, add, 
   and edit postings.


4. U.S. 
   Cyber Cafes: Most of us forget that cybercafes exist in the United 
   States, too. Since we’re usually plugged in to our own computers, finding one 
   while on a cross-country road trip could pose a problem. Use this databank to 
   find one quickly.


5. Cellular 
   Abroad: This online company allows you to rent or purchase cell 
   phones and SIM cards that will work all over the world.


6. "Guidelines 
   for Using a Cell Phone Abroad:" Read this article about how to use 
   a cell phone when traveling outside the country…before you even leave.


7. Telestial.com: 
   Telestial.com is a great site for helping travelers find the right cell phones 
   and calling cards for unbeatable prices.


8. "Staying Connected 
   While Abroad:" This article provides good tips on using cell phones 
   and managing temporary wireless connections when traveling.


9. International 
   Cellular Services: Research the cost and necessity of renting a 
   cell phone in countries around the world. Find great deals and order before you 
   go.


10. Rick 
    Steves’ Cyber Cafes forum: This forum reviews cybercafes in Europe, 
    letting you know which ones are a good deal and which ones to avoid 
    altogether.

Miscellaneous  

From safety to health to one-stop travel 
resources, you’ll find it here!

1. Transitions 
   Abroad.com: TransitionsAbroad.com is a Web site principally 
   designed to help out study abroad students and Americans who wish to find jobs 
   abroad; however, it also serves an excellent source for anyone needing 
   information on transportation, culture shock, safety while traveling, and 
   more.


2. Independent 
   Traveler.com: A superb resource for everything travel-related, this 
   Web site gives information on customs, passports, traveling with children, 
   renting cars, and more.


3. Travel 
   Checklist: Print out this list to start making preparations before 
   you leave your home and start packing.


4. Department of Homeland 
   Security: Check this Web site to determine security threats which 
   could affect your travel schedule.


5. U.S. Department of State 
   Embassy Information: Find information and locations of U.S. 
   embassies all over the world. They’ll help put you in touch with certified, 
   inexpensive healthcare if you need it.


6. The Traveler’s Companies, 
   Inc.: Find out about affordable travelers’ insurance here.


7. "Health and 
   Fitness for the Traveler:" Check out this article, which offers 
   important advice on staying healthy during your entire trip.


8. 
   TravelForecast.com: Make sure you’re prepared to face whatever 
   weather is coming your way.


9. TouristClick.com: This site 
   provides information on destinations, transportation, insurance, and more.


10. 
    Cheap Travel Cheat Sheet: Keep this list handy at all times: from 
    the time you start brainstorming about your vacation until you make it back 
    home. Get inspired to save up quickly for a dream vacation and learn how to cut 
    costs while you’re traveling.