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 completely changed the way 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:
1. [Wanderlog](https://www.wanderlog.com)
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 having to enter it all manually. Wanderlog can scan my email for booking confirmations, itineraries, and agendas, automatically adding them to my travel plan. I can even forward confirmation emails, and they’re 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, making it even easier to keep everything in one place. It’s user-friendly, intuitive, and incredibly useful for solo and family trips alike.
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. Just pull up your phone, and you’re good to go—no fumbling with emails or paper confirmations!
2. [ResortPass](https://www.resortpass.com/)
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 affordable and 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—just pull up the pass on your phone and enjoy your day without having to track down an email confirmation or paper receipt.
3. A Real-Life Travel Agent
Why I Love It: Yes, travel agents still exist, and they’re incredibly valuable! A good travel agent can handle everything from securing upgrades and special 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 up 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 my 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.
4. [Viator](https://www.viator.com/)
Why I Love It: Viator is my go-to for planning activities outside of hotels or Airbnbs. 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, just pull up the pass on your phone and enjoy your experience hassle-free.
5. [Airbnb Experiences](https://www.airbnb.com/s/experiences)
Why I Love It: Over the years, Airbnb Experiences has transformed, adding a wealth of diverse options that go far beyond basic tours. I initially found it to be somewhat limited, but recently, it feels like Airbnb has really stepped up their game in this area. Now, I can find experiences that go 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'm in the mood to learn a new skill, explore hidden gems with knowledgeable guides, or join a unique local 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’re looking to add a bit of 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 so much easier to check in for activities and avoid digging through emails or printed tickets.
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Whether you’re a planner or more of a spontaneous adventurer, these tools can enhance your travel experience and make the process smoother. By adding tickets and confirmations to Apple Wallet whenever possible, you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. I hope you find these tools as helpful as I do. Happy travels!
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This version includes Apple Wallet integration as a feature wherever relevant, emphasizing its convenience for travel. Let me know if there’s anything more you’d like to add!
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