5 Easy Tips for Saving Money on Solo Travel

“Double occupancy” — a phrase that strikes fear and annoyance into the hearts of many a deal-seeking solo traveler. And when tours, resorts and cruises aren’t running at full capacity, paying a single supplement for a spot that would have otherwise been empty — and generating no revenue at all — seems downright unfair. If you’re planning on taking a solo trip anytime soon, follow these five easy tips so you won’t have to pay extra for that phantom travel partner.

1. Negotiate a Better Rate
By now you should know that a phone call and some pleasant words can get you further than any amount of savvy Googling. If your dream vacation is advertised as a package for two, call up and see whether the tour operator can do right by you as a solo traveler instead. Gently point out how your being there — even at a cut rate — is still money in their company’s pocket, especially if you’re looking to travel at a less popular time of the year. After all, a half-filled room is more lucrative than one that goes empty, and for an all-inclusive package, that’s also one less hungry mouth they’ll have to feed.

2. Be Adventurous
The upkeep of a room in use — as in maid service, laundry, etc. — is an oft-cited reason for the single supplement since it costs the same in overhead no matter if one or two people are staying in the room. Enter adventure travel, with its hostels, tents, shared hotel rooms and other inexpensive accommodations, often charged on a per-person basis instead. G Adventures, TrekAmerica, The Clymb and REI Adventures — yup, from the popular outdoor retailer — have a number of off-the-beaten-path options that won’t cost you double, as long as you don’t mind roughing it a little.

3. Consider Taking a Group Tour
A number of tour companies have caught on that there’s money in solo travel and cater specifically to it. More than half of the travelers on group tours by companies like Contiki and Intrepid Travel go it alone and end up meeting new friends in the often-shared accommodations along the way; Intrepid Travel, which caters to clientele of any age (rather than the strictly 18-to-35-year-old policy of Contiki), will only charge a single supplement if you simply must have your own room (Contiki works the same way, as does G Adventures, mentioned above). Overseas Adventure Travel, on the other hand, bills itself as “the leader in solo-friendly travel” for adults 50 and up, promising no additional charges for your own accommodations, while Exodus Travels earmarks certain weeks of its international tours for single travelers at the same per-person rate.

4. Cruise for Less
While singles cruises have been a thing since The Love Boat, several cruise lines have more recently begun building ships to better cater to solo clientele. Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Holland America all have boats featuring studio cabins specifically designed for parties of one, with no extra fee for booking. Norwegian’s offerings are most robust — with five of its large liners equipped with solo-style cabins — and include a Studio Lounge with a daily happy hour just for those staying in them. Meanwhile, Holland America’s Single Partners Program offers a same-sex roommate service in which you pay the double-occupancy rate even if no roommate is found, as well as a plethora of mingling opportunities just for solo travelers. For those over 50 who prefer a cozier boat experience, Grand Circle Cruise Line seldom charges a single supplement on its small ships and river cruises.

5. Double Down on a Good Deal
Sometimes, a vacation discount is so good or a points offer so valuable, you’ll do better paying the double occupancy rate than trying to find a trip without the single supplement. As you might imagine, this is most likely to happen if you travel off-season or snap up a last-minute deal — something that’s ever-so-much easier when yours is the only schedule you have to contend with. Even still, it can’t hurt to make a phone call, too, just in case.
Do you have any tips for saving money on solo travel? Share them in the comments, below.
Featured image of a solo traveler taking a selfie in a beautiful city courtesy of Shutterstock.

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5 Places to Eat Thai Street Food in Bangkok

Eating Thai street food is one of our favourite things to do in Bangkok.
It’s hard not to find a street corner with a row of carts lined up dishing up Thail meals like noodle soup, BBQ pork, fish cakes and delicious curries.
Is your mouth watering as much as mine?
The good news is that eating street food has many benefits to you as a traveller  – it’s generally safe (you can see what’s being cooked and it’s fresh), you get to interact with the locals, it’s authentic, delicious and the best way to give back to the local economy.
Eating Thai street food in Bangkok is incredibly cheap, as is the street food in all of Thailand. A bag of fish cakes will set you back 20 baht (less than a $1) and a noodle soup around 60 baht ($2).

How do you know where to eat the best street food in Bangkok?

Craig and I really believe the best Thai street food is the street you are on. Go to the areas that are thriving with locals—always a sign that the food rocks.
Know a few of your fave dishes in Thai, so you can order the right thing. Have it written down in Thai language if you can. If all else fails use your eyes to choose and then point and smile.
I know most of you are eager to really eat at the BEST places for street food in Bangkok. There has to be a list somewhere right?
Well according to our guide Tim, from Absolutely Fantastic Holidays, there is. Tim is a Bangkok local and shared with us what is widely considered throughout the Bangkok community to be the

5 Places to Eat Street Food in Bangkok

1. Chinatown

OMG, if you love authentic Thai street food you will love visiting Chinatown in Bangkok. There are hundreds of street stalls, markets, carts and restaurants. Night time is when Yaowarat, as Chinatown is also known as, will rock your taste buds.
We can really understand why this comes in at Number 1. According to Jim Thompson, who took us on a walking tour of Yaowarat last year, Chinatown is the place where street food first began in Thailand over 200 years ago when Bangkok was the major trading hub of South East Asia.

Dumplings

Just look for the ad hoc stalls, the plastic tables and chairs, feast out on delicious food and wash it all down with a Singa beer.
We lived a short walk from the outskirts of Chinatown and loved wandering down for our evening meal of Thai noodles with gravy. At 20 baht how can you say no?

oyster omellete – Chinatown special

2. Silom Road, Bangkok

Simlom Road is the only area on the list we have not experienced recently, although we did venture to this area of Bangkok whilst living in the city in 2002.
Being the central business district of Bangkok there are a lot of people, hungry people wanting a quick meal in between office hours. That means you’ll find a lot of Bangkok street food options.
Soi Convent and Soi 20 is where you probably most want to go to gorge on cheap Thai food.

3. Soi Rambuttri

This is one of our favourite streets in Bangkok.  Soi Rambuttri is one of the few places you can escape the madness of Bangkok.
When we lived in Bangkok this street was known as Dog Shit Alley, because of the number of dogs that paraded up and down the rat-infested street. We loved eating Thai food and drinking here. It was cool before it was the hipster-cool it is now. It has had a major uplift and is now a pretty Bangkok oasis.

credit: zealous

We were surprised Soi Rambuttri made the list as it seems such a small area, but Tim assures us the food there is known to be first class. It’s also really cheap.
We didn’t eat there this time, except for Kalyra who gorged herself on a cheap banana pancakes with chocolate – one of our fave 2am treats after a night in the Alley.

4. Banglamphu

When we explained why we didn’t understand how Soi Rambutri and Banglamphu were both on the list – as Dog Shit Alley is in Banglampoo – Tim explained that the street food is a little different.
Banglamphu is the area around the river, near the Golden Palace that comprises the backpacking travel area of Khao San Road and So Rambutrri.
If you want the really great Bangkok street food, then walk to the end of Khao San Road, turn right past the police station opposite the Wat and Soi Rambuttri and lining the streets will be many many street stalls and carts. Also the streets adjacent to Khao San.

credit: amsfrank

We can absolutely affirm that this is a great place to eat the best street food in Bangkok. This was where we ate dinner most nights when we lived in Bangkok, we loved to feast on fish cakes and noodle soup.

5. Soi 38 Sukumvhit

We don’t feel we had the normal Soi 38 street food experience. We were excited to feast on this street as we had heard so much about it, but only felt disappointed upon arrival.
There were only a few carts lining the street, we envisioned much more, and the selection didn’t seem all that great. Mind you, we did have a very whiny 5-year-old at the time so probably were not really focused. We ended up jumping in a small stall just to have some peace.

The Tom Yum Goong we ordered was one of the worst we have ever had. Maybe because we are so used to Bangkok street food, we weren’t that wowed by Soi 38. Many people are though, so I would go and see for yourself.

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10 Places to Visit in Ireland with Kids

It’s incredibly easy to think of Ireland as a place for “seasoned” tourists to take bus tours or for young singles on self-directed “pub tours”.
But the Ireland I know is welcoming for the entire family, filled with a centuries old magic just waiting to be discovered.
For nearly a decade I have been traveling with my children. My eldest daughter’s first flight was to Ireland. As we have crossed the country in the years since her first trip, we’ve discovered many amazing places – and have many more on our “future visits” list.

1. Cliffs of Moher

Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher seem a very obvious choice. The most popular tourist destination in Ireland, people have been coming here for hundreds of years to take in the incredible views.
Before walking up to the cliffs – a bit of a hike – be sure to stop in the Visitor’s Centre. The Atlantic Edge exhibit is well worth the time.
Kids, and even adults, will enjoy learning about the history of the Cliffs and how bird eggs were collected from the cliff walls.

2. Killarney

Jaunting Cart in Killarney National Park

The tourist town in Southwest Ireland – and for good reason. Killarney is often the starting point for many tourists who plan day trips around the Ring of Kerry.
Nestled next to the city centre is the edge of Killarney National Park, which includes Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and Traditional Farms, and miles of walking and cycling trails.
Killarney is a terrific base for day trips through the Gap of Dunloe and the Beara Peninsula. Add in shopping, dining and lively pubs and it’s very easy to spend your entire vacation in this single area.

3. Lough Gur / Ballyhoura

Donkey Sanctuary

Quite possibly one of Ireland’s most magical – and least visited – areas. Lough Gur lies just south of Limerick City. In this small area you’ll find Ireland’s largest stone circle, the entrance to faerie land, castle ruins and incredible archeological sites. Easily, an entire days’ worth of exploration and discovery.
The Ballyhoura Region, of which Lough Gur is a part of, covers much of County Limerick and the northern portion of County Cork. A popular area for hikers and mountain bikers, you’ll also find Ireland’s only Donkey Sanctuary, which is fun and free to visit.
Rambling Houses across the area will teach you Irish Dancing or maybe even how to play the Irish whistle or bodhrán.

4. Kylemore Abbey

Photos of breathtaking Kylemore Abbey in Connemara inspire many adults to visit Ireland. But few realize that the grounds of the Abbey are incredible place for children. The paths throughout the grounds feature fun play areas for kids.
While the adults will marvel at the Walled Victorian Gardens, the kids will see a fabulous place to run and explore. The gardeners are always happy to answer questions and the tea shop provides a relaxing spot for a cuppa and a bit of chocolate.
If you are very adventurous, enquire about mountain hikes behind the Abbey. Not for the faint of heart, but the views are unbelievable!

5. Dingle Peninsula

The Dingle Peninsula

Often overlooked in it’s neighbor’s (the Ring of Kerry) popularity, the Dingle Peninsula offers quite a lot for families. One of the largest draws is the town of Dingle’s resident dolphin, Fungi.  A terrific Oceanic Aquarium lies just by Dingle Bay.
Driving the peninsula leads to a stone age fort, bee hive huts and the Gallarus Oratory. Views are just as dramatic as you’ll find on the Ring of Kerry.
The Dingle Peninsula is a Gaeltecht, or Irish speaking area, so you’re likely to pick up a few Irish words, as well.

6. Giant’s Causeway

Will you believe the scientists, who say the Giant’s Causeway is the result of an underwater volcano, or will you trust the Irish legend that says it was built by Finn McCool as a path way to Scotland?
After visiting the miles of octagonal stones along the Antrim coastline, it’s likely you’ll choose the Irish legend.
For those looking for adventure, follow the Antrim Coast Road, a narrow, often single carriage-way drive that hugs the Antrim coast providing some of the most breathtaking views in Northern Ireland.
Include a stop at the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle or, for those who enjoy a thrill, cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

7. Lough Boora Parklands

The Lough Boora Parklands were once a prime peat mining area. Now those acres of land are public space, filled with art that can be appreciated by all ages.
Wander the pathways on foot, or rent a bicycle. And bring bits of bread to feed the ducks and geese that call the park home.

8. Clifden / Sky Road

Enjoying the traditional craic

Though maybe not as white-knuckling as the Antrim Coast Road, the Sky Road near Clifden offers incredible views – and a few heart-racing moments as well. At times the road seems like it must fall off the edge of the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, and then the road widens, providing a place to stop and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
The village of Clifden is called the Capital of Connemara. Filled with shops and pubs, it’s the perfect place to dance the night away in a pub to traditional Irish music (yes, kids are allowed in the pubs!). And the beaches of Mannin Bay are a terrific place to hunt shells and sea glass.

9. Bunratty Castle

Bunratty Castle

One of Ireland’s best preserved tower houses, Bunratty Castle is the center of a folk park filled with traditional Irish cottages as well as a small village filled with traditional shops and a pub.
Wandering the grounds leads to a beautiful walled garden, a piggery, plenty of animals and even a play area featuring a wooden castle.
Bunratty castle can be explored top to bottom and hosts a Medieval Banquet nightly. For families with young children, I recommend Traditional Irish Night, which is filled with music, dancing and craic (pronounced “crack”; Irish for fun and entertainment).

10. Phoenix Park / Dublin Zoo

Many visits to Ireland begin and end in Dublin. But Dublin is not all about the pubs.
One place in the city that will surely please kids of any age is Phoenix Park. Over 1700 acres, Phoenix Park was originally a Royal deer park. You’ll still find deer and other wildlife throughout the park as you explore on foot or bicycle.
Also within the park is the Dublin Zoo, playgrounds, a flower garden, and tea shops. Phoenix park is truly a relaxing oasis in the center of bustling Dublin.

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34 Things to Know Before You Visit China

Ever since opening its doors to the world in the 70s, China has experienced a period of rapid growth and change.
These days, more and more tourists from around the world are flocking to the ancient country to experience its rich history and perhaps catch a glimpse of its bright future.
While China’s modernization has meant that many western amenities are available, there are still a few hurdles that might catch the unprepared unaware.
After two and a half years living and working in China, I’ve compiled some of the tips I wish I’d had before I got there. Hopefully, these will help you discover what a wonderfully challenging and beautiful country China is.

Using Money in China

1. Cash is preferred

Although more and more businesses (particularly large hotel chains and upscale restaurants) now accept Visa and Mastercard, the most widely accepted card scheme is UnionPay. However for the most part, you’ll need to pay with cash.

2. China recognizes only one currency – its own.

The official currency of China is the yuan, otherwise known as RMB or colloquially as ‘quai’.
Notes are available for 1RMB, 10RMB, 20RMB, 50RMB, and 100RMB. There are also 1RMB coins available, as well as smaller fractions of known as ‘Mao’ for the Chinese leader who adorns them.
Chinese businesses do not accept other currency, including the US dollar and the Hong Kong dollar.

3. Exchange currency at ATMs in China

While many Chinese banks do not accept foreign cards, larger chains such as HSBC can be used to withdraw local currency from foreign bank accounts. This usually offers a far better exchange rate than services such as Travelex.
International ATMs are available in all major cities, but may be harder to find in less tourist friendly areas.

4. Don’t forget to tell your bank you’re visiting China

Make sure your bank knows you’re going to be using your card in China. You don’t want your card being cancelled mid-trip.

6. Bring a translator

If you need to do your banking face to face, you may need to bring a local to help translate. Very few bank employees will have sufficient English to help you, although in larger cities such as Beijing or Shanghai they should have an English speaker on staff.

7 Don’t tip in China

The Chinese do not tip, and you aren’t expected to either.

8. Use your haggling skills

Outside of chain stores and boutiques, it’s totally possible to practice your haggling skills. Never accept the marked price or first price offered.
With shrewd negotiation, it’s possible to get souvenirs and such for a fraction of the quoted price.

Organising travel documentation for China

by Shutterstock

 9. Visas for China

China does not offer visas on arrival, so you’ll need to arrange your visa well in advance of your travels.
When applying for a tourist visa, you’ll need to provide either a letter of invitation from a Chinese friend or relative, or provide a detailed itinerary of your intended trip. This includes return flights and confirmed reservations for your hotel bookings.
Visas can be applied for in person at the Chinese consulate or can be ordered via post.

10. Booking hotels in China

If you want some flexibility with your itinerary, make use of sites that do not require upfront payment to make bookings. Chinese sites such as C-Trip require no deposit to book accommodation, and you can cancel without penalty once your visa is approved.
Booking.com offer free cancellation on most rooms. And their book now, pay later at check-in system allows you to lock in that rate with some flexibility. Just check the booking conditions per room type and you’ll have piece of mind when booking through them.

11. Travel insurance for China

While China is a very safe country with relatively low crime, it pays to be prepared. Book travel insurance and be sure to insure more valuable items such as cameras, laptops etc.
Read More: The best travel insurance for Australian’s travelling overseas

Managing your Health in China

 by Shutterstock

12. Drinking water in China

For the most part, tap water in China is not drinkable. Bottled water can be purchased very cheaply at most restaurants and stores.

13. Pharmacies in China

Chinese pharmacies offer both western and eastern medicine at very reasonable prices. Prescription medication can usually be purchased without a prescription (within reason) by simply providing the pharmacist with your identification.

14. Finding a doctor in China

Chinese hospitals can be crowded and daunting, but most major cities also have specialized hospitals catering to foreigners living and working in the country.
Even in the crowded public hospitals, many doctors will speak English.

15. Coping with air pollution in China

Larger cities in China have serious problems with air pollution, particularly in Beijing. Many locals swear by masks on days with hazardous air pollution, but it is safer to avoid exertion on days with particularly bad pollution.

16. Bring toilet paper

Most Chinese toilets do not provide toilet paper. Hotels and nicer restaurants will have it available, but it’s always a good idea to carry a roll of toilet paper or a box of tissues.

17. Bring hand soap or hand sanitizer

Like toilet paper, hand soap is not standard in many Chinese bathrooms. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you just to be sure.

Travel & Transit in China

 18. Get to the airport early

It is advisable to get to the airport three hours early for international flights to China and two hours early for domestic. Chinese airports can often be chaotic and overcrowded, so you’ll be grateful for that extra time.

19. Expect delays

In my two and a half years in China, I can count on one hand the number of flights that left on time. Be prepared to wait in the airport (or even on the plane) when flying from a Chinese airport.

20 Catching buses and trains in China

China is serviced by a fantastic network of buses and trains, including the high speed G-Trains that can whisk you across the country in a matter of hours. Rates are extremely affordable by western standards.

21. Bring your passport when making a booking

You’ll need your passport when making a booking, and you can only book one ticket per passport.

22. Make use of local booking sites

Chinese booking sites such as C-Trip and eLong often offer better rates than western booking sites. Be sure to check both when planning your trip.

23. Driving in China

Chinese roads can be rather chaotic, so self-driving is really only recommended for the particularly brave!

24. Catching taxis in China

Taxis in China are cheap and plentiful. Most drivers will not speak English, so it’s a good idea to get your destination address written in Chinese by somebody at your hotel.

Experiencing the Chinese Culture

by Shutterstock

25. Eating street food in China

Chinese street food is delicious and it is everywhere! When choosing which vendor to purchase from, check to see where the locals are dining. If you see a queue, it’s likely to be a safer bet.

26. Spitting in China

The Chinese do not use handkerchiefs and tissues to clear their noses, and instead spit. While this can be a bit confronting when you first visit China, they’re similarly affronted when they see us blowing our noses and keeping it.

27. Personal space

China is a crowded place, and the locals have become accustomed to a much smaller personal space than we are accustomed to in the west. Don’t be surprised if you’re jostled or shoved when queuing – it’s just part of Chinese culture.

28. Taking photos in China

The Chinese love to take photographs, and don’t be surprised if a local tries to snap a sneaky photo of you or even comes up to ask for a picture with you.
Like in most other countries, it always pays to ask permission before photographing a person or a government building.

29. Mailing things home from China

With cheap prices and a huge variety of products, it can be easy to go over your luggage limit while shopping in China. Thankfully, it is very affordable to post things home using China Post’s surface (sea) mail.
This can take one to two months, but is a very affordable way to get your belongings home.

30. Beware of Chinese knock-offs

Shopping streets such as Nanjing Road in Shanghai are a great place to find a bargain, but be aware that knock-offs of prominent brands can be seized at the airport upon your return home.

31. Don’t be shy in restaurants

Chinese waiters and waitresses aren’t as proactive as you may be used to, so don’t be afraid to throw your hands up and call for the fuyian if you want service.
Also be aware that conventional western service is hard to come by. Don’t be surprised if your starter, main, and dessert all arrive at once while your friend still waits for their first dish.

Technology in China

Guilin landscape by Shutterstock

32. Get a local SIM card in China

China’s major carriers include China Telecom and China Unicom. SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or at most corner stores, and credit is quite affordable.
Most Chinese SIMs are locked to the province in which they are purchased, so you’ll pay roaming charges when texting, calling, or using data outside of this province.
Even then, the rate is far cheaper than international roaming.

33. Get a VPN for China

China’s ‘Great Firewall’ blocks sites such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, and most of the Google selection. If you want to access these while you’re visiting China, you’ll need to purchase a VPN.
When shopping for VPNs, check that they cover China – as many free options do not.

You can try a VPN from NordVPN here, which comes highly recommended and covers China.

34. Download Weixin (or WeChat)

China’s premier messaging app is Weixin (WeChat in English) and everybody you meet – expats and locals alike – will have it.
Download the free app and set it up, as it’s a great way to keep in touch with locals who may not have social media.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten track. While Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an are worthy of their international fame, there is so much more to China than these cities and their cultural sites.
China is a massive country with a rich history, over thirty distinct cultural groups, and a huge variety of landscapes to explore – don’t limit yourself to the same few sites everybody else visits.

Plan Your Trip to China

We’ve been traveling consistently for 17 years and have come to rely on a few trusted websites that save us money and time when booking accommodation, flights and car rental. Below are our preferred partners:
Accommodation in China

• Booking.com has over 30,000 properties in China including hotels, apartments and hostels. You get free cancellation on most rooms and a best price guarantee.

Flights to China

• Skyscanner is a comparison website that searches millions of flights. Once you find your best deal, they send you directly to the airline or agent to book (no extra fees).

Car Rental in China

• RentalCars.com is the world’s biggest car rental booking service that compares all the major brands like Hertz, Avis, Alamo, Enterprise, Europcar and Thrifty.

Do you have any tips for travel in China or other things to know before visiting China?

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The 10 Best Travel Tips of All Time

In our office, between conversations about visas and gorging on international chocolate, we often discuss the difference between a tourist and a traveler. There's a quote by English writer G. K. Chesterton that we keep coming back to: "A traveler sees what he sees. The tourist sees what he has come to see." We might also add: "A tourist goes to the Eiffel Tower. A traveler also goes to the Eiffel Tower—but knows to visit at twilight (to see the sunset and the tower sparkle at night); has read up about its secret apartment within; and made a reservation for Hôtel Raphael's rooftop terrace to get a spectacular view of the landmark itself."

It's our job to help people feel at home in the world—to enjoy being outside their comfort zones—and to be well armed with the latest info and apps, restaurant picks, and hotel openings. We've all felt like tourists before, so-called strangers in a strange land, but with these ten tips, leaving the house is about to get a lot easier.

1. The Best Day to Book a Flight

Tuesday! Just kidding. Kind of. For the last few years, a study about air travel trends by Expedia and Airlines Reporting Corporation supported the notion that travelers get better airfare deals on Tuesday afternoons (after the business travel rush died down). But the latest data—analyzing 10 billion (yes, billion) passenger flights from October 2014 and October 2015—shows that weekends are actually an ideal time to get a discount on a flight. "Most analyses show low air ticket prices on weekend days because that’s when many leisure travelers purchase tickets (and leisure tickets are much cheaper than business tickets)." There's a caveat (isn't there always?): Airlines change their fares multiple times a day, so it's best to check often.

2. How Far Out to Book a Flight

That same study is a little more definitive when it comes to how far out you should book flights to get the best rates. For flights within North America, look to buy about 57 days before flying (for savings of about 10 percent); from North America to the Asia-Pacific region, book about 160 days out; and for North America to Europe, try to plan 176 days (or about six months) in advance.

Holiday travel plays by its own rules, though. Thanksgiving deals come in October, with more savings the last week of the month and, surprisingly, Thanksgiving week itself. Book Christmas travel while you're packing for your Thanksgiving trip, and New Year's flights by the week of December 5.

3. The Best Time to Book a Cruise

Thursdays! Not kidding this time. A recent study by cruisewatch.com, a search engine for cruise deals, looked at some 600,000 fares and found that prices were their lowest on Thursdays, dropping 17 percent, reports Traveler associate digital editor Katherine LaGrave. And the priciest day to book? Wednesday. Dirty, dirty Wednesday.

4. How to Get Through Airport Lines Quickly

Two words: TSA PreCheck. Two more words: Global Entry. PreCheck is an $85, five-year "known traveler" membership that gets you expedited screening in U.S. airport security lines (though it may soon extend to European airlines). That means shoes stay on, laptop and toiletries stay in your carry-on, and dignity remains intact. But for $15 more, Global Entry gives you PreCheck privileges and the ability to speed through U.S. customs in minutes. It's the better deal, in our humble opinion.

5. The Best Websites to Find Flight Deals

Sure, we all use Kayak, but it's not perfect: The flight search engine doesn't show a complete list of airlines (e.g. Southwest famously doesn't share its fares with aggregator sites). When we're feeling creative, we check The Flight Deal, Fareness, Airfarewatchdog, Skyscanner, and Concorde, which is a wholesale list of amazing flights—the kind you need to jump on immediately. And don't forget to sign up for the Scott's Cheap Flights for a daily deal.

6. How to Avoid Roaming Charges Abroad

Start by finding out what kind of international plan your phone has. Verizon has one of the most comprehensive data plans abroad. Google's Project Fi means Android phones can also work abroad—in 135 countries—in much the same way as they would at home. When in doubt? Buy a portable Wi-Fi hotspot like Skyroam to keep in your purse or pocket. You can pay as little as $8 a day for unlimited data in about 100 countries.

7. Easiest Way to Get Upgraded to First Class

Sadly, there's no fool-proof way to get from economy to the front of the plane, despite the sweetness of your talk. But Traveler contributing editor Mark Ellwood has long preached the good word of loyalty programs: By flying regularly with one airline, you rack up miles and status that can get you upgrades on routes that aren't business-heavy (think New York to West Palm Beach). You can also use miles to upgrade a paid ticket, though you may have a cash co-pay.

8. Best Credit Cards for Travelers

We could write an entire story about this—in fact, we have. Read Traveler contributing editor Cynthia Drescher's deep dive into the latest changes to travel-friendly credit cards (and their perks), and compare that with contributing editor Lilit Marcus's review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve, which we were all freaking out about this summer—$450 annual fee notwithstanding.

9. The Apps to Download Now

TripIt. LoungeBuddy. SeatGuru. GateGuru. Google Translate. Mobile Passport. They'll get you through every stage of your trip, from planning to flying (comfortably) to twirling cacio e pepe at a cafe down a Roman side street.

10. The Apps Even We Can't Wait to Try

We'll be taking a trip with Lola soon—our new A.I. travel agent, which also comes with actual humans on the back-end and 24/7 service. And we hear good things about Sky Guru, an app that's meant to act like in-flight Xanax by explaining each of the plane's bumps and dips in real time.

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