These are the companies and products that we like to use when planning and booking trips. If you have any questions about any of these companies, don’t hesitate to contact us!
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Accommodation
Booking.com – Our go-to site for booking hotels, guesthouses or other accommodation around the world. A lot of places have the advantage of being fully refundable up to a certain date.
Hostelworld – The best site to use if you are booking hostels around the world as they have the largest selection and an easy booking interface.
VRBO – A great option if you’re looking for private accommodation such as apartments or holiday homes.
Worldpackers – A work exchange platform that allows you to volunteer your time in exchange for accommodation. Use the code WORLDHEREFIRST to get a $10 discount on an annual membership.
Getting Around
Rentalcars.com – A price comparison website for renting cars anywhere in the world. Many major companies are available here and it lets you easily see what the cheapest option is.
Outdoorsy – A marketplace for renting campervans, RVs and motorhomes
Omio – An easy-to-use website to book train and bus tickets in Europe, North America and many destinations in advance!
Ferryhopper – A great way to book ferry tickets across Europe including in Greece, Italy, Spain and Croatia!
WelcomePickups – Book private transfers from airports or ports in advance so you have a stress-free journey when you arrive.
Insurance
World Nomads – Offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.
SafetyWing – A travel medical insurance provider that offers affordable and flexible policies for travellers and digital nomads.
iCarHireInsurance – They offer third-party excess insurance for car rentals which is typically significantly cheaper than what is offered by car rental companies.
Day Tours
GetYourGuide & Viator – Tour aggregators that offer a huge selection of organised day tours, walking tours, entry tickets and multi-day trips in many different travel destinations.
Luggage & Clothing
LEVEL8 Suitcases – Our choice for wheeled carry-on luggage which is ideal if travelling for a short trip. Use our discount code WORLD10 to get a 10% discount on your order.
Osprey Farpoint Backpack (also available on REI here) – Our favourite backpack to travel with and one that we’ve used extensively across a number of trips. It’s lightweight, versatile and comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pacsafe – A large selection of anti-theft products including daypacks and purses such as the Citysafe Convertible.
Eagle Creek Compression Packing Cubes – By compressing your items, these are a lifesaver for keeping your luggage organised and space-efficient. These ones are very lightweight and durable!
Bluffworks – One of our favourite brands for stylish yet practical travel clothes. They have several choices for pants, tops and formal clothing for both men and women.
Stay Connected
SimOptions – Buy SIM cards for a variety of international destinations and have them delivered to you before you leave on your trip. Check out the Orange 20GB SIM if going to Europe!
ExpressVPN – Stay secure while using public WiFI networks and watch your favourite shows from back home.
Flights
Skyscanner – Flight aggregator that we find is best to use if you have flexible travel dates or haven’t decided on your final destination.
ClaimCompass – If your flight to or from any EU country is cancelled or delayed, you can claim compensation for up to €600 per passenger.
Photography
Sony A6400 Camera – Michael’s camera of choice, this is a great entry-level mirrorless camera if you want to start taking your travel photography more seriously.
Joby GorillaKit Tripod (also available on REI here) – A fantastic lightweight tripod that has flexible legs, meaning it can be used in a wide range of different environments
Extra SD Cards – Whatever camera you use, make sure to never forget to pack a few extra SD cards so you have plenty of space for your photos.