TRAVEL TOOLKIT
Over the years, I’ve come across quite a few websites, apps, products and travel essentials that have made planning and travelling a little easier.
Some are things I use regularly, while others are useful finds worth sharing. I’ve gathered them here so you can have a look whenever you’re planning your next trip.
These are recommendations based on my own experiences, not a list of things you need to buy before travelling. Take what you find useful and leave the rest!
Flights & Transportations
Skyscanner : I usually start here whenever I’m looking for flight tickets. I’ve never had a problem booking flights through third-party websites. I usually go with the cheaper option after checking the booking details. If buying directly from the airline is cheaper, that’s when I’ll book through the airline’s website instead.
Agoda : I use Agoda for more than just accommodation. I’ve booked flight and airport transfers through the platform as well. Its prices can be competitive, so it’s worth checking before making a booking.
Traveloka : One thing I like is its coupons. They are quite generous with discounts, which can make a booking cheaper than other platforms.
Trip.com : Website I use when comparing prices. Depending on the destination and booking, it can sometimes offer a better deal.
Accommodation
Agoda : Platforms I use most often when booking hotels. I’ve never had a problem with it, and its customer service has been excellent.
Booking.com : Used to be my favourite platform. I still check it when comparing hotel prices, although I’ve become more careful with my bookings in recent years.
Traveloka : Worth checking when booking accommodation, especially when there are coupons available. I’ve used it quite a lot, and the discounts can make a difference to the final price.
Airbnb : A platform to consider if you’re looking for apartments, private rooms or entire homes instead of traditional hotels.
Accor.com : Whenever I’m looking for a luxury hotel, I browse their properties and book directly through their website.
Tours & Activities
Klook : Klook is useful for booking attraction tickets, tours, activities and selected travel services. Most of the guided tours I’ve joined were booked through Klook. The voucher redemption process was easy too.
Agoda : Agoda isn’t just for hotels. You can find selected activities and experiences on the platform as well, so it’s another place worth checking when looking for tours and activities.
Internet & eSIMs
I usually rely on Hotlink roaming when travelling overseas. It’s an option I’m familiar with, so I tend to stick with it, although I’ve bought local SIM cards on several occasions too. With eSIMs becoming more widely available, staying connected while travelling has become much easier. If you’re thinking of trying one, here are two options worth checking out:
FLOO eSIM : One of my travel partners. Offers regional and country-specific data packages worldwide. Use my code 848N9 when purchasing through my link to get 7% off.
Use code: 848N9
NXTL Travel eSIM : Another travel partner worth checking out. One reusable eSIM for 180+ countries. Top up whenever needed and pay only for the data you use. Use my code auriduham when making a purchase to get 10% off.
Use code: auriduham
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is one of those things I prefer to arrange before leaving for a trip. Here are a few providers I’ve used during my travels:
Do compare the coverage, exclusions, claim requirements and benefits before choosing a policy. The cheapest option isn’t necessarily the most suitable one for your trip.
Camera & Content Gear
I enjoy taking photos during my travels, so having a camera or action camera along is useful for capturing different moments.
A couple of devices in my travel gear collection:
- Sony ZV-1: A compact camera for taking photos and videos while travelling.
- GoPro: Useful for action shots and situations where carrying a regular camera isn’t ideal.
I’ve shared more of the gear I use here : My Travel Gear
Travel Essentials
You can check out My Travel Essential page for more of the items I use and recommend.
📢 Affiliate disclosure
Some links on this page may be affiliate or partnership links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a commission or receive a benefit at no additional cost to you. I only share platforms and products I find worth mentioning, and I’ll always try to be transparent about my partnerships.