In 2025, you can become a Master Traveler
Most people don’t come into this world as savvy travelers. Only road experience can give you the knowledge. The process of becoming a travel ninja is one that comes from making mistakes, missing buses, being ignorant about culture, and other small errors. Then, one day, you begin to seamlessly move through airports and integrate yourself into new cultures like a fish to water.
In the beginning, you’ll make a lot of travel mistakes.But I want to help speed up the process and help you avoid my mistakes (and I often make a lot of them), so I put together this giant list of my best travel tips that cover everything under the sun to help you reach your full travel ninja potential.
I’ve learned these tips over almost twenty years of being a nomad.
These tips for traveling will have you saving money, sleeping better, getting off the beaten path more, meeting locals, and just being a better traveler.
So, without further ado, here are the best 61 travel tips in the world:
1. Pack a towel. It’s never too early to pack a towel. You may need it at the beach, for a picnic or even just to dry yourself off after taking a shower. It’s best to choose a lightweight towel that dries quickly, as regular towels can be heavy and bulky. Dry Fox travel towel are my favorites (use code “nomadicmatt”, for 15% off)!
2. Use a small backpack/suitcase.
By purchasing a small backpack (I like something around 35-45 liters), you will be forced to pack light and avoid carrying too much stuff. The human tendency is to fill up space. You’ll regret this later, as you will be carrying more weight and more stuff than you need. The article below has some tips for choosing the right travel backpack. Avoid large suitcases, as they can be a hassle to carry around, particularly if you are traveling for a long time. I like Level 8 suitcases. They are sturdy, spacious, well designed and reasonably priced (luggage is expensive). They also have a TSA-approved lock integrated into the zipper. Click here to find out more or buy one.
I recommend packing cubes as well. They are great if you plan to live out of your backpack for several weeks (or even months) or if you want to organize your suitcase. These packing cubes come in different sizes so you can store both large and small items. These are great for organizing your suitcase or backpack. Write down your essentials and cut them in half. Then, only bring those items. You won’t need much extra space anyway, because you have a small bag, as I mentioned above. You won’t require as many clothes as you thought. Wearing the same tee shirt a few times in a week is fine. These are very light, and look great too. They are comfortable, don’t need to be washed often, and last forever. I wrote a review about the company. )
But bring extra socks! Pack extra socks because you’ll lose some to wear and tear and laundry gremlins. You should always take more than you think you’ll need. I can assure you that this is true. Click here to see my complete packing list. Hostels are inexpensive, have events, are a great way to meet people and are a lot fun. Hostel bars also sell cheap beer. Hostelworld has the largest selection, the best interface for searching, and the highest availability of hostel accommodations. I use it for all my hostel bookings.
Here’s my list of all my favorite hostels around the world broken down by city. If you plan to backpack Europe, you should consider getting HostelPass. This card offers up to 20% discount on hostels in Europe. This is a great way of saving money and they are constantly adding more hostels. It’s great that it’s finally here. I’ve wanted something similar for years and I’m so glad to see it. Use code NOMADICMATT to get 25% off.
5. Bring an extra credit and bank card. Once, I had a duplicate card made and then a freeze placed on it. I couldn’t use the card for the remainder of my trip. It was great to have a backup. It’s not good to be stranded somewhere without your money. It happened to a good friend who had to borrow my money for several weeks as they waited to receive their new card. Here are a few articles that will help you with your banking:
6. Use no-fee credit and bank cards. Spend it on travels. Choose a debit and credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees or ATM fees. The few dollars that they charge you each time can add up over the course of an extended trip. You can learn how to save money by reading this article.
7. You don’t have to fly directly.
Sometimes it’s cheaper to fly into airports near your final destination and then use a budget airline, train or bus to get there. Find out the cost of flying directly to your final destination. Look at the prices of nearby airports. If the difference is more than $150 USD, I look to see how much it is to get from the second airport to my primary destination.
My favorite flight search engine is Skyscanner. Skyscanner is my favorite website to find cheap flights. It searches many different airlines including budget carriers, which larger sites often miss. At least once, travel alone. It may sound cliche but it is true. I learned to be independent, to talk to strangers, and to handle unfamiliar situations easily. You may need to get used to it if this is your first time, but try it once. Surprise yourself by making yourself uncomfortable. When you push yourself, you’ll gain valuable life skills. These articles will help you plan a solo trip:
9. Visit the local tourism center. Tourism information centers are well-informed about what’s going on in the town. You can find out about free activities and special events that are happening during your visit. You can even get discounts on transportation and attractions. Their job is to help you enjoy the destination more. Locals are on hand to tell you the best places to eat and drink in their city, away from tourists. They also offer city tourism passes that allow you to enter multiple attractions at a set price. This is a great way to save money, especially if you plan on doing a lot sightseeing.
10. Take free walking tours.
Besides being free, these tours will give you a good orientation and background of the city you are visiting. When I travel, I absolutely love walking tours. It’s a great way to pass the time and ask the guide questions. You also learn a lot about the place you’re in. In the past few years they have become more popular and are now available in most major cities. If you are looking for paid walking tours, Walks offers in-depth cultural and history tours in many cities in the world, especially in Europe. Small-group tours tend to provide exclusive access behind the scenes that you cannot get anywhere else. Devour Food Tours offers a variety of food tours in Europe.
11. Look like a tourist. It’s not as bad as being lost and in the wrong area. Look like a tourist by using a map and asking for directions. You are a tourist! 
12. But don’t be afraid to get purposefully lost.
Wandering aimlessly through a new city is a good way to get to know it, get off the beaten path, and away from the tourists. You may be surprised at the hidden gems that you discover. I love to walk around and find my own way without Google Maps. You never know where you will find a cool spot.
13. Staff at hostels deal with budget-conscious travelers every day. They will know where to find cheap food and attractions. Locals are more likely to know the city well. You can ask them for any information you need. Ask for assistance even if you’re not staying there. You’ll get it.
14. Sign up for flight offers. Sign up for websites that offer flight deals to save money. Save time and money by receiving the best flight deals directly to your email. Sign up for airline emails, as they are the first to announce sales. The best travel websites to find deals are:
15. Take only what you absolutely need when you are out. Limit the amount of bank cards and cash you take with you on your outings so that you are prepared in case something happens. Never carry more than one ATM or credit card. The amount of cash I carry is limited to $50 USD.
16. Always travel with a lock. These are useful, especially if you live in a dorm. Budget travelers will need their own travel locks to secure their belongings in hostel lockers. You can rent or purchase them at most hostels but it is cheaper to buy one in advance. If you use one that has keys, then you are screwed if the keys get lost. Make extra copies of your passport and important documents.
Don’t forget to email a copy to yourself too. You never know when it might be necessary to have a document with you. You can also use a copy of your passport to file a police report if it is stolen. Learn basic phrases in the native language of your destination.
The locals will appreciate it and it will make your interactions easier. It’s not necessary to be fluent in the language, but even a few phrases like “Hello,” Goodbye,” Thank you!” and “Where is the bathroom?” can go a long ways to making yourself more popular with locals. You’ll be admired for your efforts. Here are a few tips to help you learn a new language.
19. Don’t be ashamed to walk into a Starbucks or McDonald’s.
Sometimes familiarity is comforting and both places have free wifi and public restrooms you can use. Just don’t eat at McDonald’s. This shite is disgusting and unhealthy! You can buy it at home!). Most modern coffee shops and libraries also offer free Wi-Fi. When in the security line, always stay behind business travelers. They are used to it. As much as you can, line up behind them. You will speed through the line.
21. Never get behind families in airport security.
They take forever. It’s not the fault of the family. It’s not their fault. Avoid standing in long lines where there are many children. It will take some time.
22. Ask for an upgrade when you check into the hotel. Asking never hurts. If the hotel is not full, they may be able to accommodate you. Be super nice. You can earn points for your home purchases and then convert them into free nights. Upgrades are more likely with the best cards. The best time to see historical sites is during lunchtime. As big tour buses and groups head out to lunch, you’ll find fewer people in your way. You should always visit an attraction early in the morning, late at night, or during a time when most people are eating. Even the most popular spots will be yours!
24. You should never eat near tourist attractions or in touristy areas. When I reach five blocks, I walk in any way and look for a restaurant. Tourists don’t cross the invisible line in this area. All of a sudden you notice that the crowds are gone, and that’s when you want to start looking.
Sure, you might find a good meal in a tourist area, but you’ll find a better, cheaper meal outside it. You should choose restaurants where menus are not in different languages. You might not be blown away by the meal every time, but it will always be a memorable and more local experience. The meal might not knock your socks off each time but it will be a memorable and more local experience.
Use websites like Yelp or Google Maps to find some delicious and popular restaurants around you.
25. You shouldn’t be eating out every night like the locals. By observing the food that locals buy, you can gain a great deal of information about their diet. It will also save you money. You won’t be sorry. You’ll be surprised! Eat at expensive restaurants during lunch. Most expensive restaurants have lunch specials that include the same foods they serve at dinner, but at a fraction the price! This is the best time for you to dine out while traveling. Here are more tips for eating cheaply all over the world.
27. Pack a headlamp.
This is a handy tool for both backpackers and anyone looking to do any hiking or camping. When you are staying at a hostel and need to check-in or out, but do not want to disturb other travelers by turning the lights on, a headlamp will come in handy. They’re also helpful in emergencies.
28. Carry a basic first-aid kit.
Accidents happen, so be prepared. I always carry band-aids and antibacterial cream for minor cuts. You can either make your own first aid kit (here are a few tips on how to do so) or buy a kit that is already assembled online. Do not believe cheap flight myths. There are many myths about finding cheap flights online, but there’s no secret or magic bullet. There is no benefit to booking on a certain day or searching incognito. Check out my two blog posts on how to find cheap flights:
My favourite company for finding low-cost flights is Skyscanner. Skyscanner is where I begin all of my searches.
30. These websites can help you gain an insider perspective of your destination, by connecting you to locals. It’s a triple win! I use these resources all the time when I travel. It’s a triple win — and I use these resources all the time when I travel.
Here’s an article on how to use the sharing economy (and what websites to use) when you travel.
31. Be open to strangers.
Not everyone bites. Hello to strangers on the road. Strangers can become friends. Remember that they are like you. They too want to have a full, happy life with hopes and dreams! You never know. But you should be on your guard. Keep your guard up. Avoid falling for travel scams and uncomfortable situations. Be open, but also cautious. Avoid these travel scams.
33. Avoid taxis.
They will always break your budget. Never take a taxi, unless it is absolutely necessary! Take a reusable water bottle through airport security and fill it up at your gate.
Single-use plastics are common in a lot of countries around the world. These plastics pollute our oceans, and destroy the environment. You’ll save money by drinking from the tap. Get a water filter bottle if you are going to a place where the water is not drinkable. I love Lifestraw.
35. Take photos of your clothes and luggage.
This will make it easier to identify your bag if you lose it and help your travel insurance process.
36. Carry cash in case of emergency.
Emergencies happen. Like that time I was in Romania and couldn’t locate an ATM. I needed money to get the bus back to my hostel. I always keep $200 in emergency cash just in case!
37. Get vaccinated.
Because falling prey to an illness in a foreign country is not fun — and many countries require you to get vaccinated in order to visit them. You might be forced to get vaccinated, regardless of what you think. Learn to haggle.
Haggling is a fun, playful way of not getting charged the foreigner price. Negotiating is a skill that you can use in all aspects of your life. It’s not worth it to argue about pennies!
39. You can travel for free by using points and miles. You can earn points and miles by spending money every day. This will allow you to get free travel, including flights, accommodations, train tickets and more. Here are a few articles that will help you to get started using points and mileage:
40. Eat street food. Do not be afraid. Look for restaurants where children are eating if you’re feeling nervous. You’re safe if they’re safe. Get travel insurance.
Travel insurance is the most important thing to get that you never want to use. You don’t need to pay thousands of dollars if something goes wrong. You can get travel insurance if you are robbed, your flight is canceled, or you become sick or injured. You may think that you are superman/woman, but my friend broke her arm and didn’t have any insurance. She had to pay thousands of dollars out of pocket. When I needed to replace my camera, and I popped my eardrum while scuba-diving, insurance was there! Get it! Here are some tips on how to find the best travel insurance.
My favorite companies are:
SafetyWing – A budget-friendly choice for travelers who need basic coverage. SafetyWing is affordable, has great customer service and makes it easy to file a claim. If you’re on a tight budget, go with SafetyWing!
Insure My Trip – The best insurance for those over 70 years old.
Medjet – This is a membership program that provides emergency evacuation coverage should you get into a dire situation while traveling and be hospitalized. Medjet is meant to supplement your regular travel insurance.
42. Be patient.
Things will work out in the end. There’s no need to hurry. It will all be done in time. Travel is about the journey, not the destination.
43. Be respectful.
Locals are willing to help you out, but there’s probably a language barrier, so keep your cool when something doesn’t go your way. You’ll look like a snobby tourist if you don’t. Do not overplan your trip. Let the day take care of the rest. Traveling is less stressful when you let the day take its course. My advice is to not over-plan your trip!
45. Do not be cheap, but do try to save money. Don’t be penny-wise but pound foolish. Don’t be stingy and look for bargains, but also don’t sacrifice great experiences to save a few dollars. Time is money. Spend both of them wisely.
46. Take earplugs.
Anyone who has ever stayed in a hostel knows that earplugs are a necessity. Snorers can be found everywhere, and you’ll need to sleep. Be prepared! A good night’s sleep is priceless — be prepared! A good night’s sleep is priceless — be prepared!
These earplugs are reusable and work much better than the cheap foam ones, blocking out any distracting noises.
47. Remember that you’re not alone even if you’re traveling solo.
Traveling alone never means you’re really alone. You will always find a group of fellow travelers to help, advise, or give you tips wherever you are. They can guide you and point you in the direction of your dreams. You’re not alone. If you are unsure about traveling alone for the first, you can join a group trip, like those offered by The Nomadic Network. I designed the entire itinerary myself, to make sure that it covers the highlights and gets you off the tourist track. It also connects you with locals and friends. Take pictures of people and take photos with them. Take photos when you make new friends. Take lots of pictures. Years from now, you’ll want to look back on those nights you can’t remember and the people who made them memorable.
49. Online, you can pre-book tickets for attractions, activities and excursions. Most companies offer discounts when you buy in person. You can also pay using a credit card for extra security and travel points. Look online to find out if you can do this. You can avoid waiting in long lines by going straight in. I’ve seen many people waiting for hours to enter the Paris Catacombs and Louvre. Also, for London Churchill War Rooms. Fortresses. Temples. Churches. Get Your Guide, my favorite website to book in advance, is the place I go to most often. This is a massive online marketplace with a wide variety of tours and excursions in cities around the globe, including cooking classes, walking tour, skip-the line attraction tickets and more!
50. Avoid TripAdvisor.
TripAdvisor is fine when you need opening hours or an address, but when it comes to reviews I ignore it completely. The reviews are skewed because people always write a bad review after a bad event, but they rarely do the same when a good thing happens. Many restaurants and hotels hire firms to artificially boost their reviews on this platform. TripAdvisor is known to remove reviews that are too negative, as well as those that discuss sexual assault. Use TripAdvisor carefully. Use TripAdvisor with caution. Or, better yet, avoid it altogether. Finally, wear sunscreen.
For as the Baz Luhrmann song “Everybody’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)” goes:
If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it.
The long-term benefits of sunscreen have been proved by scientists
Whereas the rest of my advice has no basis more reliable
Than my own meandering experience.
You’re done! Here are my top travel tips. You’ll soon be the best traveler in town if you follow these tips!
It’s your A to Z planning guide that the BBC called the “bible for budget travelers.”
Click here to learn more and start reading it today!
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s your A to Z planning guide that the BBC called the “bible for budget travelers.”
Click here to learn more and start reading it today!
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. Skyscanner is my favorite search engine, because it searches all websites and airlines in the world.
Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. Booking.com is the best option if you don’t want to stay in a hostel. It consistently offers the lowest rates for hotels and guesthouses.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. This is comprehensive coverage in the event of an accident. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Want to Travel for Free?
Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Want to Travel for Free
Travel Credit Cards allow you to earn rewards that can be used to redeem for free flights or accommodation. Discover Cars offers affordable international car rentals. They’ll find you the best, and most affordable, rental car for your trip, no matter where you are going! Ready to book your trip?
Check out the resource page to find out which companies are best to use for travel. Here are all the companies I use to travel. You can’t go far wrong with them. They are top-of-the-line and the best you can get.
