If you’re a traveler, you likely know the benefits of popular sites like Airbnb, Expedia, and TripAdvisor for finding accommodations and top spots. But there are a few special tools I use that have entirely changed how I plan my trips, and I’m excited to share them with you in case you’re looking for something to make travel planning smoother and more enjoyable. Here are my top picks (with tips for Apple Wallet users):
Why I Love It: Wanderlog is my go-to tool for organizing all aspects of my trips. It allows me to pull everything into one place without manually entering it. Wanderlog can scan my email for booking confirmations, itineraries, and agendas, automatically adding them to my travel plan. I can even forward confirmation emails, which are then automatically integrated into my itinerary, making it simple and seamless.
One of the best parts is the ability to share the trip with family or friends, which cuts down on the “What’s next?” or “When are we going there?” questions. I also love that Wanderlog lets me track my budget down to the dollar, which helps keep everything organized and transparent. Recently, Wanderlog has integrated with big travel sites like Airbnb, so keeping everything in one place is even more straightforward. It’s user-friendly, intuitive, and beneficial for solo and family trips.
Apple Wallet Integration: Whenever a partner site supports it, I add my reservations and tickets from Wanderlog to my Apple Wallet. This makes it so much easier to access tickets when I’m boarding a train, checking in for a flight, or picking up a rental car. Pull up your phone, and you’re good to go—no fumbling with emails or paper confirmations!
Why I Love It: ResortPass is a lifesaver when it comes to adding a touch of luxury and relaxation to my travels. If I’m visiting a city where I know it’ll be hot, I don’t have to book a pricey hotel or Airbnb with a pool. Instead, I can use ResortPass to find a hotel with a pool (and sometimes other amenities like spas and gyms) for the day.
In a city like New York during the summer, where hotel pools are rare and usually costly, ResortPass allows me to enjoy a pool day for around $125—a fraction of the cost of a high-end hotel. Even if cabana rentals go up to $300-$500, splitting the cost with friends makes it much cheaper than renting a place with a pool for the week. It’s the perfect solution for anyone who loves lounging by the pool without the commitment of a high-priced room rate.
Apple Wallet Integration: Many ResortPass locations allow you to save your day pass directly to Apple Wallet. It’s a huge convenience when heading to the pool or spa—pull up the pass on your phone and enjoy your day without tracking down an email confirmation or paper receipt.
3. A Real-Life Travel Agent
Why I Love It: Travel agents still exist and are incredibly valuable! A good travel agent can handle everything from securing upgrades and exceptional amenities to making restaurant reservations at the hottest spots in town. They know which neighborhoods to avoid, where to find the best local experiences, and can even protect you from getting caught in sketchy situations.
Having rediscovered the benefits of a travel agent in recent years, I can confidently say they’re worth every penny. Their insider knowledge, connections, and ability to personalize experiences make them indispensable. If you’re looking for a great agent, here’s a personal recommendation for one of m Julie el 40 minutes 40 minutes OK I'll come and 40 thank youy favorites [insert travel agent's contact info or link here, if applicable].
Apple Wallet Integration: Whenever possible, I ask my travel agent to send me confirmations or e-tickets that can be added to Apple Wallet. It’s such a relief to have everything accessible in one place—whether it’s for a last-minute dinner reservation, a hotel upgrade, or an activity booking, I can keep my itinerary right at my fingertips.
Why I Love It: Viator is my go-to for planning activities outside hotels or Airbnb. It offers a wide array of experiences, from city tours to cooking classes, giving travelers access to unique local activities and excursions. The variety on Viator is unbeatable—you can find everything from sunset cruises to behind-the-scenes museum tours. I love that it’s like a one-stop shop for exploring a destination’s best experiences, and you can often book instantly or at the last minute, which is perfect for flexible travel plans.
Apple Wallet Integration: Viator often allows you to save tickets for tours and activities directly to Apple Wallet, which is incredibly handy when it’s time for your event. Instead of digging through emails, pull up the pass on your phone and enjoy your experience hassle-free.
Why I Love It: Over the years, Airbnb Experiences has transformed, adding diverse options beyond basic tours. I initially found it somewhat limited, but recently, Airbnb has stepped up its game in this area. Now, I can find experiences beyond sightseeing—things that genuinely allow me to “live like a local” and connect with the culture.
These days, I’m finding everything from hands-on cooking classes and active hiking adventures to photography workshops with local experts. Whether I want to learn a new skill, explore hidden gems with knowledgeable guides, or join a unique regional event, Airbnb Experiences consistently offers new, well-curated options. It’s been such a refreshing addition to my travel toolkit, and I highly recommend checking it out if you want to add some depth to your travel experience.
Apple Wallet Integration: Airbnb Experiences now often includes Apple Wallet integration so you can add your booking directly to your Wallet. This makes it much easier to check in for activities and avoid digging through emails or printed tickets.
Whether you’re a planner or more of a spontaneous adventurer, these tools can enhance your travel experience and make the process smoother. Adding tickets and confirmations to Apple Wallet whenever possible lets you have everything you need at your fingertips. I hope you find these tools as helpful as I do. Happy travels!
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